Kate and William. As a planner and designer it is an interesting exercise to imagine what working a Royal Wedding would be like. Impeccable staff helps. A full wallet doesn't hurt. But the pressure of it all requires a very strong stomach. Like as not, I will not have to test myself on that scale.
Loved the hats! I think that was my favourite part. Did you see them? If not check out this slide show link Royal Hats on the NYTimes. Some of the hats look like they come from Yves St. Laurent via Dr. Seuss. Some went in for height. Others for brim. Don't get many events on Orcas where hats like this show up. Our loss.
Most everyone here dresses as my friend Nikki says, 'prepared for a Hiking Emergency'. Polar Fleece, tired jeans, rugged shoes and earrings. You get the image. Another friend tells the story of how she and her husband were going to an evening party and it wasn't a potluck. She came out feeling very pretty, lovely pants and top, a bit of girl frill, jewlery and makeup. Her husband came out in pants and a polar fleece and rugged shoes, sans jewlery. They looked as if they were going to different events.
So what do you wear to an Orcas Island wedding? Unless specified for black tie or aloha party, an outfit that makes you feel very pretty, that you can where with out tugging at it to put it back in place, is the right thing. Shoes are of course a challenge. I have sadly missed several seasons of shoes that I would have loved to wear because I live here. I see a lot of women in heels twisting ankles as they chase their 3 year old off the path into the forest. I've seen Christian Louboutins aerating lawns while ruining heel and toe. Ca-ching! It is distressing to say but low heels and flats work for the grass and the dance floor. Leave the polar fleece in the hotel room. Bring a sparkely sweater or wrap. It is chilly at night for sure.
And if the mood hits and style works, wear a great hat. There are those of us here who would be so very grateful.