People keep asking me how the wedding went. I guess it's high-time I stopped using jet-lag as an excuse and actually got off (or on) my butt and typed something. Please note that this account is mine. My wife's may be (very) different.

The Wedding Day

I managed to get a reasonable night's sleep and awoke nice and early. Shortly after, I received an SMS from Our Ma checking that I was awake and sober. I was both and ready for a long, hot soak in the tub. The soak was good, I was relaxed and ready for the day ahead. I even had my speech rehearsed.

Ushers ajd and cam escorted me to the Golden Arches for a healthy breakfast. An excellent way to start the day! We picked up a tasty snack in the drive-thru for the best man who was putting the starting finishing touches to his speech.

Once back at the Travel Inn, we were able to mill around and chat with the other guests who'd arrived. Some from Australia, some from Japan, lots from Ireland and a fair number from South of the Watford Gap. Without a sign of even a small butterfly, I stuck to the Pepsi Colas in the bar!

The morning went slowly, but it was soon time for my (now) Father-in-Law to pick up Our Ma and Keeva (the littlest bridesmaid) to take them to the house to get ready. It was then I knew that the wedding wouldn't be far away and the excitement built up inside me.

Time, then to don the suit (which I think looked great) and mess about with button-holes.

The afternoon was now starting to whizz past. Once the groomsmen were dressed it was time to get in the car. Waving to the gathering crowds who were getting ready to board the coach, we made our way to the Church. Tune of choice on the way? Bring Your Daughter... ...To the Slaughter, by Bruce Dickinson -- I couldn't find any Billy Idol CDs.

Once at the Church, I had to be caught on camera. This took some time.

However, I eventually made it inside and noted that lots of people were already there. It was great to see them. All of them. It was also very pleasing to note that the heating had been fixed since the rehearsal just twenty-and-a-bit hours previous.

Still no sign of those butterflies. This must be A Good Thing^TM.

In no-time at all I spotted Keeva at the back of the Church, looking beautiful. I decided that this would be a good time to take my place at the front of the Church.

Father Lumley came to see me to assure me that The Bride had turned up and was having her photo taken. I beamed.

The Wedding Ceremony

Some time passed while photos were taken. And then the organist did his bit... I remained facing the front until I heard Kirsty and her Dad approaching.

I turned around and saw my Bride. I'm not sure if anyone heard my gasp. She looked amazing! I did my Cheshire Cat impression as we linked arms an walked to the altar.

Our readers read wonderfully and the priest's homily was well-received. I would like to deny any involvement in the delivery of his joke about marriage. It wasn't mine!

I couldn't stop smiling all the way through the service. My only concern was that I'd stumble through the vows as I tend to stutter slightly when I know that lots of people are listening. I didn't, not even on the word 'impediment'!

Signing the Register was just that... signing my name. Not much to say about that.

We processed out to Mendelssohn's Wedding March, which felt amazing. Mr & Mrs Johns, both overjoyed to be facing all those friends and families and being photographed, as if by the papparazzi. Quite an experience.

Once at the back of the Church, we had to turn around and walk back to the Altar for the main photo shoot. This took aeons! As a result, I'm sure we'll have some really wonderful photos to marvel at. They're not ready yet, but then we wouldn't expect express developing, would we?

The Reception

Leg one of the photo shoot out of the way and we made our way in a lovely vintage Rolls Royce to the reception.

We had yet more photos taken, some very rushed before we could pretend to cut the cake for the photographer.

Some three hours since the start of the short wedding ceremony, we got to sit and eat. The meal was delicious. Every bit as good as I'd hoped for.

The Father of the Bride gave an excellent speech after the meal. We were all amused as he mentioned the Bride's Blog! I missed chunks out of my speech, having not written anything down. I was disappointed in myself. Several people have told me that it was good, so now I'm not so sure. Steve's Best Man speech was top-notch: I'm sure those who were not in the know couldn't tell how recently it was written or how many Czech Spirits he'd necked to control his nerves ;-). Well done, Steve!

A surprise fourth speech was given by Mr Barnes, on behalf of the 31 men who went to Prague.

After we had cut (and eaten) the fabulous cake, there was much dancing to Rannygazoo. Unfortunately, this was their last ever gig, but we were delighted that they could play for us, as K's known them for bout as long as she's known me!

Before we could retire at the luxurous Judges Country House Hotel, Kirsty had to throw the bouquet. This was duly caught in a joint effort between my sister and usher rga, accompanied by a rowdy rendition of Andy Williams' Can't Take My Eyes Off You (the unofficial anthem of my stag weekend).

I'm going to wrap up this entry here, as we're off to see the Fudgemaker!

As Lou Reed might say, it was a Perfect Day (thir)! Thank you to all who made it what it was. Thank you so much.