Weddings

I promise I won't just keep ripping off Geoff (http://www.geoffwashere.com). Well, maybe.


What’s the farthest distance you’ve ever traveled to attend a wedding? Whose wedding was it, and where? Did you have a good time? What was the wedding like? Went from DFW to Austin for Roel and Marie's wedding. It was a tremendously great Catholic ceremony with a fun reception. On the drive down, in the drizzling rain, the overwhelming scent of roses suddenly filled the truck as I drove through an old Austin neighborhood. Really no idea how that could have happened, but it was just a nice moment at the start of a beautiful evening. One of the bridesmaids invited me to "sleep" at her place that night. Flattering and all, but not my style, what with being married myself and all...

Have you ever been a wedding attendant [bridesmaid, groomsman, usher, etc.]? For whom? When and where? Groomsman a couple of times, usher, speaker, DJ. I'd say my favorite was speaking at the wedding mentioned above. There's something about reading aloud from the Good Book in front of a crowd that I dig.

What characteristics do you feel are essential for a strong, long-lasting marriage? [If you’re already married, did someone give you some good advice before you tied the knot? What was it?] Married 11 years. I had to learn this stuff for myself. Things I've found handy: Learn to listen, and learn to be quiet when appropriate (which is more often than you might think). Ask how their day went, and care to pay attention when they answer. Understand the importance of touch. Be spontaneous once in a while. Flattery never gets old to someone who can take a compliment; if you can't take a compliment (I'm guilty of this), learn to just smile when they tell you something nice. Accept change as you both grow. Don't be afraid to chuck aside sarcasm and humor, even with your friends, and take a moment to admit aloud that you cherish your partner. Value what they bring to your life in terms of growth and stability. Understand what they tolerate from you, and be prepared to tolerate in return. And remember that love grows; though it's not always like those early dating jitters, what it becomes is comforting, and one of life's greatest rewards.

What makes for a really awesome wedding reception? What are some of your favorite wedding reception activities, traditions, etc.? Honestly? You just cannot knock a good mariachi band, followed by a confident DJ who can feed off of the crowd. And a killer chicken salad never hurts.

Many celebrity marriages have failed after just a short time. Why do you think that happens? Who do you think is the most famous, interesting, or notable celebrity couple now or in the past? [Jennifer and Brad? Ben and J.Lo? Bruce and Demi?] I find celebrity marriages less interesting than navel lint.