12 Comments
User's avatar
Katie's avatar

Congratulations!

One thing about weddings is that they are literally the only socially acceptable reason to get ALL of your friends and family in one place. It's the only event people will get on a plane for. So even if you don't NEED to get married or have issues with the institution, it's a celebration you won't ever get another opportunity for.

Expand full comment
Mandy Len Catron's avatar

Yes! It's true. This was such a motivator for me and it worked! But also part of me wishes there were more reasons for this kind of gathering in our lives, more rituals and celebrations. This felt especially true seeing folks from all across the political spectrum gathering at my mom's house. We're so afraid of uncomfortable moments (and there were a few) that we (and I include myself here) so rarely gather with folks who are different from us. And, in the process, lose sight of one another's humanity.

Expand full comment
Jill Kolongowski's avatar

Congratulations!! I often tell people that my favorite moment from our wedding was walking down the aisle and seeing a middle school friend next to a present-day friend next to my grandparents next to my cousins, and later to watch these people playing games and enjoying each other's company. It was so special. We were also together a long time before getting married, so seeing all these different communities from different parts of our lives felt like such wonderful communion.

Expand full comment
Amanda Kao's avatar

Loved this piece, Mandy! Congrats and thank you for sharing with us x

Expand full comment
claire dollan's avatar

we love you guys so much!! i'm still somewhat devastated we missed this party. (for the record, i also think you have great legs 😘)

Expand full comment
Jess Tracy's avatar

Love this, the wedding, you guys, and that poem!!! Mandy you are so my personal poem curator, and u appreciate it!

Expand full comment
Mandy Len Catron's avatar

Oh what an honor!

Expand full comment
Jess Tracy's avatar

and obviously I meant *I* appreciate it!

Expand full comment
Teresa Wong's avatar

I love everything about this, Mandy! Big congratulations 💖

Expand full comment
Mandy Len Catron's avatar

Thanks Teresa :) :)

Expand full comment
David Roberts's avatar

I liked this very much. The forest picture is very LOTR. I do think that the ritual is important, especially making a commitment in front of all your loved ones.

Expand full comment
Mandy Len Catron's avatar

It is a very LOTR kind of forest. A magical place in ever sense. :)

Expand full comment