Monday, August 27, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
06/29/2012 "Going To the Chapel and We're Gonna Get Married!"
It was a Saturday morning, Anel and I had just finished making breakfast, and we were chatting about the big upcoming wedding in September in California, and the following one with honeymoon in South Africa. Having learned that travel documents take anywhere from 6 weeks to 3 months for our trip to South Africa, I feared that the scheduled wedding of 12/29/2012 in South African might have to be postponed as a result. So I began a conversation with Anel as follows: "Why don't we just elope in Vegas?" I asked. "Seriously?" she asked. I said, "Absolutly! Look Anel, I love you and I can't wait for you to become my wife. I also can't wait to go to South Africa! If it takes running off to Vegas and elope to clear our path, then lets do it!" She pondered it for a moment and said, "What a fabulous idea! I would be honored to elope with you in Vegas. I do, however, have one request... If we are to get married in Vegas, I want to do it right the "Vegas style." That means cheesy outfits, Elvis, a tiny wedding chapel with bad decorations, and silk flowers!" I, of course, couldn't believe what I was hearing. "Are you serious about an Elvis wedding?" I asked in amazement. "Of course!" she exclaimed, "I absolutely LOVE Elvis!" With the biggest smile on my face I said, "I love you soooo much right now!"
And that's how it all started... The following weekend we were riding across the Mojave Desert in 108 degree (F) heat in route to the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada. 48 hours later we were Mr. and Mrs. Isaacs! I'll let Anel fill in the details!
Well, needless to say, that little conversation after breakfast led to lots of research that Saturday morning... The next order of business was to pick a date for Vegas. I pulled out the calendar, and started looking at the following couple of weekends. I saw that the following Friday was 06/29/2012, and given that the California (CA) wedding is on 09/29/2012, and the South African (SA) wedding on 12/29/2012, it was a no brainer!!
06/29/2012!!!
We then started looking online at "Elvis Weddings in Las Vegas" and found quite a few! A lot of packages were in the ceremony chapels in the popular hotels on the Vegas strip. Given we had agreed to "the cheesier, the better," it just didn't seem right to do it there. I was also wanting to do it in one of those little churches in Vegas, given that the CA wedding will be on a mountain top (Mount Umunhum where Joe proposed), and the one in SA out in the African bush (literally!). So with that we knew about the "The Little White Wedding Chapel" (http://www.alittlewhitechapel.com) where stars like Britney Spears, Freddie Prinze, Judy Garland, Paul Newman, Ricky Lake, Bruce Willis, Frank Sinatra, et al. all tied the knot, could be a go. After looking at the packages and the prices, it was too expensive for something we wanted to be simple, cheap, fun and of course... cheesy!
However, that lead us to "Graceland Wedding Chapel - A Storybook Chapel" (http://www.gracelandchapel.com) where ceremonies with the King himself were popular, and besides, where the infamous rockstar Jon Bon Jovi got married as well! We checked out a lot of pictures and video clips online, and we were delighted to find that the inside of the church were as cheesy sounding as the rest of the Elvis "Viva Las Vegas" package for only $199. Our package would include:
- Use of Chapel for 15 minutes of Ceremony duration and pictures
- Elvis will escort the Bride down the aisle
- Elvis will sing 2 songs: "Love Me Tender" and "Viva Las Vegas"
- Rose Presentation
- Rose Boutonniere
- Copy of Elvis and Priscilla's marriage certificate
- Professional Photography (no personal pictures inside allowed)
SOLD!!!
We called them up to inquire about Friday the 29th, and learned that marriages took place every 15 minutes from 8am to 6pm daily. We got a slot for 4:30pm on the 29th, and were told that the Limo would pick us up at the hotel at 4pm. On all of the pictures and video's on YouTube, I've seen several versions of the King himself, and asked if I could request the "young King" with his golden jacket? The man on the receiving end by this time was like "ok lady, sounds good, we'll try our best!" Probably knowing it wasn't going to happen, we, of course, were delighted nonetheless!
Next, Joe asked me how I felt about riding to Las Vegas on our motorcycles? I didn't even have to think about that one twice... of course! Looking at the forecast, I knew it will be well over the 100 degrees F, and continued to remind Joe of how hot it will be. Yet, it wasn't a doozie for him at all not to ride on our motorcycles there. Joe was determined to go to Las Vegas and elope on Charlotte (Joe's 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 650) and GizmoRR (my 2009 Kawasaki Versys 650). Well, with that, we decided to leave after work on Wednesday to at least as far as Bakersfield to avoid the valley's heat. We left Bakersfield first thing in the morning on Thursday so that we get into Vegas at a reasonable hour and avoid the Mojave Desert's heat! We felt like we accomplished quite a bit in those 3 hours of conversation...
One of the last 2 things to do was to tell our parents and look into what we were going to wear... We called Joe's mom, Mrs. Isaacs, to tell her about our plan, and she was extremely happy, very supportive and super-duper delighted for us! Mrs. Isaacs even hinted to the fact that if we would want anyone to go/be present, that she would be honored (we were going to extend an invitation to her anyway). After she checked her calendar (she's a nurse in a burn unit at a hospital in Phoenix), she found out she worked the night before, and knew she would make it in time if she drove up after work the morning of. We were ecstatic to know that she would attend!
Joe looked into lodging, and looked up where Graceland Chapel exactly was in Vegas. Finding that it was in the old downtown of Las Vegas, he remembered hearing/reading about the "Fremont Street Experience" (http://vegasexperience.com), and booked accommodation at the Fremont Hotel and Casino (less than 2 miles from the Chapel). Now the only thing left to do was to decide what to wear? With "the cheesier the better" motto, Joe knew he wanted to go with the baby blue powder suit! That sent us on a mission to find one to rent. No easy task at hand I tell you! After calling 9 rental places, I finally found one at Jerry's Tux Rental a few miles from the hotel. I called and reserved a time for Joe to get measured and fitted. Wondering about myself, I knew I had this white dress that would do the trick. However, after showing that dress to Joe, I knew I'd be on the hunt for something else! Wednesday morning came and I finally found a pretty white little sun dress online that I liked. With no time to have it mailed to San Jose, I ordered it and had it sent ahead to the hotel, since we were leaving that afternoon. Not knowing if it'll fit, or what it would look like on me, I put my faith in what I thought was the best fit, and went with it.
Counting down the hours to our departure time on the bikes was fun! Having packed, checked, and cleaned the bikes the day before, Joe and I connected on the hour, and did an hourly countdown with much enthusiasm! Once home after work, we kissed the girls (our pups Annie and Foxie) good-bye, and set out to ride off into the sunset...
Ok, well it wasn't that romantic quite yet, given it was a long slog up the 680 and down the I-5 to Bakersfield to ride just to get there! However, when we got to Lost Hills by 9pm (about 50 miles north of Bakersfield), we were tired from being in traffic earlier, and riding into the evening. We saw a vacancy sign at the Days Inn, and figured it was as good as anything. Uh, yeah no, it does not come recommended! There were stray cats everywhere, the motel was shady, but at least the linens appeared to be clean, and we were greeted by a very friendly clerk. Sold! All we needed was a bed for 6 hours and a warm shower in the morning.
The next morning called for an early departure, as it was going to be 108 degree F getting into Las Vegas. As we passed "Peggy Sues 50's Diner" on the I-15 in Yema, we knew we had to stop there to eat something! The air conditioning was also a very welcoming change from the heat. After a great meal, we shopped around in the gift shop. It's a gift shop like no other with memorabilia ranging from "The Wizard of Oz" to "Elvis" to "I Love Lucy" and so forth... We liked taking pictures with the Elvis statues given where we were heading! ;) We knew Joe's mom would have LOVED to shop there herself, so we bought her a little belated birthday present as we thought of her!
The rest of the way to Las Vegas was uneventful, but oh soooo hot! We stopped a few times to dehydrate, to drink water, and wet our clothes for evaporation while riding in the heat. It was so hot that you were dry again before even getting back on the bike to ride! Of course, you can't buy a gallon of water and not also have a little fun... Let's just say Joe got soaked a few times! We finally made it into Las Vegas, and was just beat from the heat and straight ride on the freeway, instead of the twisty beauties around us. Given that we wear ATGATT (pronounced "at-gat" - All The Gear All The Time) on the motorcycles, you can imagine how hot I was decked out in full leathers, and Joe in his stitch! Finally upon arriving at the hotel, the first thing we did was to strip the gear (we wear shorts and t's under c'mon now!), and hung out over the air conditioning. Exhaustion had taken it's toll, and a nap was in our near future.
We were out for about 3 solid hours! Since Vegas is the city that doesn't came alive until night time, it was nothing out of the ordinaire to go and "join the party" at 9pm! Since we had to get a marriage license before going to the Chapel, we decided to take care of that first. We got dinner and walked over to the Marriage License Bureau that was a couple of blocks down the street. We had learned earlier that it was open from 6am to 12am, 7 days a week. Walking in at 10pm was quite fun! We were not the only couple there... even the strange couple that came in with the guy obviously wasted and the gal not far behind him, was an amusing sight to see! For some reason butterflies and knots had overtaken my stomach by this point, and I was one ball of nerves! I was excitedly nervous and it was very apparent in filling out of the forms, signing it, and later into the evening (story to come!). After 1/2 hour we had our license, and just needed it to be made official the following day!
I was dying to see my dress that had arrived at the hotel earlier in the afternoon, so I sent Joe ahead downstairs so that I had 5 minutes to try it on after we got back to our hotel. Within a few minutes Joe got a text that read "Oh my gosh, a bride's worst nightmare... the dress doesn't fit!!!" I was in panic mode! I changed and went downstairs to meet Joe. I was not a happy camper, and knew it meant that I will have to go out in the morning into the streets of Las Vegas and shop for something while Joe picked up his tux. It also meant that I had to forgo the 3 hour bridal package I had at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino's Spa (across the street), since stores only opened at 11am. I was not happy! :( I tried to enjoy a little bit of the Fremont Street Experience with Joe, but my mind was at that of the dress not fitting. After a while I asked Joe if we could go back upstairs so I could try it again, perhaps this time with his eyes closed and his help. Back in the room we tried, and he wasn't able to get the back closed while not trying to look at the dress at the same time. I thought with his help it could work, as there is a panel to pull together before zipping it up. But with a few tries Joe confirmed that it just wasn't going to go up and closed, and with that I knew what awaited me the following morning.
Finally getting into bed by midnight, I only slept until 2 am. I fell asleep quickly, but could feel the entire time that I was tossing and turning... not only over the stress of the dress, but mostly realizing that this AMAZING man was to become my husband tomorrow!!! What a dream come true! I don't always quite grasp what I've done in life to deserve to be so blessed by being loved by a guy like Josef, but knew that this was just meant to be... I was solemnly and utterly content, so excited, so grateful, so unbelievably blessed and happy, and of course, nervous like crazy!!!
By 2am I had it with trying to sleep, so I watched a movie, while researching the stores in the area for what they might have in store. I was also texting with Joe's mom (knowing she was working and on break - I told her about the dress). True to mother-in-law fashion, she was able to bring along a "back up dress" for in case I couldn't find anything in the stores! Gotta love it when you MIL-to-be steps up to the plate like that! That eased the nervous a bit, but I was still disappointed to miss the spa appointment in order to go and look for something. By 4am I was bored, and went to Joe's bedroom to wake him up! I knew he'd probably be grumpy and tired, but I was really nervously excited, and very bored. Also, l just had to try the dress I ordered just one more time! While Joe was waking up, he thought that it was about 7am, and with excitement I shared that it was only 4am, knowing he would probably be upset. Quite the opposite! He thought it was "cute" that I woke him up. I was very appreciative of his relaxed and loving attitude. I shared my thoughts, and he got up (without complaining). We walked over to a Walgreens that's open 24-hours to buy a little sewing kit, thinking that maybe we could do something with it to hold the dress together in the back. It was already 89 degree F outside so early in the morning. Back in the hotel room, before putting the dress on again, I asked Joe what he was doing when trying to close the back? Joe was like "uh I just pull up the zipper" in his most manly voice ever, not trying to show me how all of this fashion talk was NOT up his alley! Well, with a dress like that, you have to close the panel that extends over one's back first, before pulling up the zipper (hence the reason for bridesmaids at the September wedding!). So with dress in hand, I showed Joe how it's done. When I had the dress on, and with Joe's eyes still half closed (not wanting to see me before in the dress), Joe did as we discussed, and guess what? The dress's zipper pulled up WITHOUT a problem! I was soooo relieved!!! Joe could not help but celebrate with me by dancing around in the room. It was quite the sight to see!
So with knowing that the dress fits perfectly well, I was able to sleep from about 5am-8am. When 8am rolled around, the excitement of the events of the day started to kick in for both of us!!! Not to get any more cheesy, but before we went to breakfast, we took a moment to slow down and just to take it all in...
We acknowledge how far we've come in a short period of time, how utterly grateful we were for what we shared, the family and friends we have in our lives that love and support us every step of the way, the journey about to unfold, and the new start to a new chapter in the book we started "writing" the day we met. I was in awe and in tears by being so honored to become this man's wife. A title that I don't feel I have "earned," but yet one that I hope to fill with love, respect and honor as years go by.
Joe went off on his motorcycle to pick up his tux by 10am. I was sure that the store manager would not be pleased to see Joe pack a neatly pressed suit into 3 motorcycle bags, but Joe was positive that it would be ok. Given that I had an hour before my spa appointment, it was nice to relax, and continue to take it all in. I also went to a local gift store and looked at a fun gift for Joe to remember the day by. I was able to find a vendor that sold poker chips and engraved them with your words of choice. I chose a poker chip with Elvis on it, and engraved our names to be (Joe and Anel Isaacs) with our wedding date on it. I surely loved it, and hoped he would too! After I got a call from Joe saying that the blue suit was a little too big, but good enough, and fitted into his motorcycle bags, I knew I could go to my spa appointment not worrying about what was going on there. Joe said that he had fun trying it on, and putting it away in his motorcycle luggage! I'm sure he got a look or three from the manager, but all in all, it sounded like he was pleased. Phew! Joe too wanted to run a couple of errands, and would be back at the hotel while I was at my spa appointment.
The Spa was truly awesome and relaxing for a girl that doesn't get to do that often! I got my nails, hair, and make-up done. The women were extremely friendly, and I had to laugh at how many times I heard "oh honey/suga', we do this a lot!" Only in Vegas right? It was so much fun nonetheless! The story that stands out from the entire experience was that I went in thinking I'll just do something simple with my hair and make up. The lady gave me quite a "out-of-my-comfort-zone" make-up look that I've never done before. But it looked great! With my hair I just wanted some kind of nice up do in the back. As she was working, we talked about the 2 big weddings coming up, and I described to her what I was thinking how I'd like my hair done for the CA wedding given the theme. Well, seeing that I wasn't facing the mirror and had her do whatever was "elegant, but simple," she created what she thought I was describing that I wanted to do with my hair for the CA wedding. Well, when she turned me around I was amazed to see what a beautiful job she did! I LOVED it!! Now I'll have to think of something completely different to do with my hair for the CA wedding. Walking away at 2pm I felt like I was gone for days in some exotic location, and felt very pampered. Seeing that it was also NV and not CA, I was amazed at how cheap it was, compared to what I'll pay in CA in September for all that.
Back at the hotel Joe was getting dressed and waiting on the arrival of his mother and her friend, Kate, from Phoenix. While I got dressed Joe went down to the lobby to meet his mama! Joe had bought these "Elvis sunglasses" with side burns a mile long! Ha! He greeted me with them, as well as him mom! That is Joe for you... fun, quirky, funny, and always up to something to make you laugh! He looked awesome though! Joe and his mom shared a special moment downstairs as he asked his mom to fix his bow tie and cufflinks. I love how Joe thinks of ways to include his mom in our lives, and make her feel part of our story. He too calls her every weekend and share about our adventures, asks for her opinion, and take her advice. It's been a wonderful joy to see their relationship blossom and one I know he'll continue to foster even with having a wife. I have so much respect for Mrs. Isaacs (snr.), and I love seeing how he treats his mother with equal respect, appreciation and above all, love.
I asked Joe to ask his mom to come up a few minutes before he did in order to help me get ready (if she wanted to). She absolutely did! We too shared a few moments together that I'll always treasure. She looked so wonderfully cheesy herself!! We first exchanged hugs and kind words of how we looked, felt, what was ahead, and then I got "the look" from my MIL-to-be. She was silent for a moment, and took a moment to take it all in as well. I wondered if this is the moment where I promise her that I'll always and forever be good to her son? But it wasn't like that as in the movies. It was just a quiet moment of exchanged looks between a mother and a daughter-to-be. I didn't have to say anything she didn't already know, nor did she have to promise me anything I didn't already have. I surely do love both of my parents, but given they are so far away on a special day like today, I was grateful for the motherly love I received from Mrs. Isaacs. She shared a few words of wisdom with me (and also a few secrets on how to keep Joe in line! Ha!) that I will take with me for always. Mrs. Isaacs and I went over:
Something old (my grandmother's bracelet of 1945),
Something new (my dress),
Something borrowed (my grandmother's gold band for Joe to wear),
Something blue (the butterfly on the garter),
And a silver sixpence in her shoe (bought at Trudy's Bridal).
It was truly a special moment. Thank you Mom!
So with that Joe came back up to the room, and saw me for the first time all dressed up. He might not admit it, but I saw the "swallow hard, and don't cry look" and could only look at him with much adoration! He looked oh sooooo handsome himself! How lucky am I???
Check out those side burns!
A dress that fits!
Since we had some time to kill before the Limo showed up, Joe and his mom put some zip ties around a bouquet I had delivered to the hotel from the florist next door. The first time I called the florist and inquired about their wedding bouquets, it started at $125. Yikes! I called back an hour later and asked just for an everyday bouquet to be delivered to the hotel room (only for $29.99), and it was perfect for the occasion! I wrapped a belt that came with the dress that I wasn't going to use around the "everyday" bouquet, and ta-da, we had a wedding bouquet!!
For the remainder of the time, we took a few pictures in the room. We didn't hire a photographer for this event, because we already knew the church had one, and that we weren't allowed to take pictures in the church anyways. So Mrs. Isaacs' longtime friend, Kate, took hold of my camera to take some pictures of the 2 or 3 of us. I felt a little guilty after the first 3 shots, because I was always telling her where to point and how to shoot. But Kate was AWESOME!! She took every direction and every picture I requested with much grace and patience. She went from the first picture of the camera flash popping up against her face, to taking some fun pictures and lasting memories in the end. Kate, you might have found a new calling! Thank you so much Kate! And thank you soooo much for putting up with my barking orders as well! ;)
The Limo from the Chapel finally arrived, and picked us up promptly at 4:15pm. The driver was pretty friendly, but he drove like a crazy man the 2 miles we had to go. We were shaking and rolling around in the back of the Limo! Joe dubbed him "wild man on a mission!" His mission? To get us to the Chapel on time that is!
Arriving at Graceland Wedding Chapel, we were happy to be there safely, and had to pay for all of the services ahead. While Joe was taking care of that, Joe's mom signed our marriage certificate as a witness. We were honored to have her do that.
As you read earlier in the package, there is a "rose presentation" and a "rose boutonniere" included as well. I thought it would be great to give my MIL-to-be the roses they would present us with, since I already had the bouquet. It was sweet to see the smile of appreciation for the thought on her face!
Joe got the boutonniere, and he also had his mom pin it on. That was another special moment between them. Here I stepped a few steps back with the camera and just let the 2 of them enjoy it. Besides, she only get to do it 2 more times!! Haha!
I really enjoyed capturing their smiles as they exchanged some words, cried, and hugged! Awe how special!
Kate took some more pictures of us out in the lobby as we heard the music for the couple before us getting married. We thought they were in there for a while, but they were at the tail end of their ceremony, as we saw the flash go off a few times. It's not only until we entered the chapel portion of the event that we realized how quickly everything happens.
This is literally how it fast it went:
The minister came out and introduced himself. Gave us a run down of how what happens when, who stands where, and what we do. He then asked if we'd like to be called Josef and Ella, Joe and Ella, Josef and Anel, or Anel and Joe. We settled on Anel and Joe, and then in Elvis came. Elvis shook our hands, told us that he'll sing "Love Me Tender" while walking me in, and "Viva Las Vegas" when the show is over. He said he'll give me away to Joe, and then play the guitar quietly in the background during the ceremony. Elvis then asked, "Ok, got that?" I think!! I was still shocked and staring at the 6 foot 6 inches Elvis that showed up in his black uni-outfit over towering me. I didn't even have time to think! The doors to the lobby closed, the minister took his stance behind the alter, Joe's mom and Kate took their seats, Joe stood in front, and Elvis started singing "Love Me Tender!" It was a voice that would put any woman in Dreamland whether he was THE King or not! Before I knew truly what was happening, I was walking down the aisle towards Joe! I locked eyes with Joe and again, while trying to take in the moment, and listening to the song, I remember thinking, "I love that man sooo much and I am so thrilled, honor and blessed to become his wife!!!" All of a sudden I was standing next to Joe, listening to the minister say "We are gathered here to witness...", completely having missed Elvis saying that "the King" is giving me to this man to be married, shaking Joe's hand, and Joe coming towards us with his Elvis glasses on and doing the Elvis thing after shaking the King's hand! (I saw all this on the DVD afterwards given where my thoughts were!). The minister read 1 Corinthians 13 (my favorite Bible verse of all times and to be read at our other 2 weddings!), having us exchange vows (which I messed up on "for better or for worst"), and putting the rings on our fingers (which Joe messed up on by taking my right hand instead of left!), and pronouncing us "Husband and Wife!!!" Joe went in for the kiss even before the minister said "You may kiss the Bride" and Elvis started singing "Viva Las Vegas!" Instead of walking back down the aisle at first as instructed before, Joe and I started rocking out to the song. Joe's mom joined us in dancing with the King. The King ever so kindly reminded us to walk back down the aisle, in which we danced some more back down the aisle! So fun! When the song ended, Elvis literally left the building! (You can see on the DVD Joe asking where Elvis is going as we have it as part of the package to take pictures with Elvis afterwards). The minister assured Joe that Elvis will be back in a minute and only then that is when Joe and I had a moment to breath and asked ourselves "what the hell just happened?" in a span of 5-8 minutes? Well, before we could even answer that question, the photographer instructed us to stand here, and there, and to do this, and to do that. The minister disappeared, Elvis came back in while we posed, took a few shots with us, and then again, left the building. Within 15 minutes we were in the Chapel and out! (DVD of the ceremony and pictures with Elvis to follow!) It's then that we really realized that we are now officially "Mr. and Mrs. Josef Ray Isaacs!!!"
Now we REALLY took a breather, but it was so darn hot, that we quickly took some more pictures in the courtyard of the little white chapel, before the Limo took us back to the hotel. We were back at the hotel at 5:19pm and our heads were swimming!
Joe realized what had happened and tried to run away, but I caught him just in time!!!
We also took some pictures on Fremont Street (where the "Experience" is), before we went back into the hotel to celebrate, and to cool down!
"Oh Elvis, I'm your biggest fan!!!"
We relived the wedding over verbally, laughed about the funny moments, and shared in the memories of this new chapter in our lives, while basking in the newness of being husband and wife!!!
Marleen called right away to congratulate us, and said to me "Congratulations Mrs. Isaacs!" Joe's mom responded with "Thank you very much!" as she was distracted with taking her shoes off. We all burst out laughing knowing that Marleen was talking to me, and not Joe's mom. Joe's mom instantly realized that she wasn't the only Mrs. Isaacs anymore, and also started laughing! Joe's mom and Kate took us out to a wonderful dinner that evening at our hotel's fancy restaurant, the "Second Street Grill," and we celebrated what is to be years of awesome adventures and many a memory to be made!!!
Oh so many good times were shared on this entire trip, that it's hard to capture every single moment! I hope we did captures the essence of Our Day!!! (Stay tuned as we share about our trip back, and decking out the motorcycles in wedding gear!)
We look forward in celebrating in a formal ceremony and reception with everyone in California in September, and in South Africa in December!
And that's how it all started... The following weekend we were riding across the Mojave Desert in 108 degree (F) heat in route to the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada. 48 hours later we were Mr. and Mrs. Isaacs! I'll let Anel fill in the details!
Well, needless to say, that little conversation after breakfast led to lots of research that Saturday morning... The next order of business was to pick a date for Vegas. I pulled out the calendar, and started looking at the following couple of weekends. I saw that the following Friday was 06/29/2012, and given that the California (CA) wedding is on 09/29/2012, and the South African (SA) wedding on 12/29/2012, it was a no brainer!!
06/29/2012!!!
We then started looking online at "Elvis Weddings in Las Vegas" and found quite a few! A lot of packages were in the ceremony chapels in the popular hotels on the Vegas strip. Given we had agreed to "the cheesier, the better," it just didn't seem right to do it there. I was also wanting to do it in one of those little churches in Vegas, given that the CA wedding will be on a mountain top (Mount Umunhum where Joe proposed), and the one in SA out in the African bush (literally!). So with that we knew about the "The Little White Wedding Chapel" (http://www.alittlewhitechapel.com) where stars like Britney Spears, Freddie Prinze, Judy Garland, Paul Newman, Ricky Lake, Bruce Willis, Frank Sinatra, et al. all tied the knot, could be a go. After looking at the packages and the prices, it was too expensive for something we wanted to be simple, cheap, fun and of course... cheesy!
However, that lead us to "Graceland Wedding Chapel - A Storybook Chapel" (http://www.gracelandchapel.com) where ceremonies with the King himself were popular, and besides, where the infamous rockstar Jon Bon Jovi got married as well! We checked out a lot of pictures and video clips online, and we were delighted to find that the inside of the church were as cheesy sounding as the rest of the Elvis "Viva Las Vegas" package for only $199. Our package would include:
- Use of Chapel for 15 minutes of Ceremony duration and pictures
- Elvis will escort the Bride down the aisle
- Elvis will sing 2 songs: "Love Me Tender" and "Viva Las Vegas"
- Rose Presentation
- Rose Boutonniere
- Copy of Elvis and Priscilla's marriage certificate
- Professional Photography (no personal pictures inside allowed)
SOLD!!!
We called them up to inquire about Friday the 29th, and learned that marriages took place every 15 minutes from 8am to 6pm daily. We got a slot for 4:30pm on the 29th, and were told that the Limo would pick us up at the hotel at 4pm. On all of the pictures and video's on YouTube, I've seen several versions of the King himself, and asked if I could request the "young King" with his golden jacket? The man on the receiving end by this time was like "ok lady, sounds good, we'll try our best!" Probably knowing it wasn't going to happen, we, of course, were delighted nonetheless!
Next, Joe asked me how I felt about riding to Las Vegas on our motorcycles? I didn't even have to think about that one twice... of course! Looking at the forecast, I knew it will be well over the 100 degrees F, and continued to remind Joe of how hot it will be. Yet, it wasn't a doozie for him at all not to ride on our motorcycles there. Joe was determined to go to Las Vegas and elope on Charlotte (Joe's 2009 Kawasaki Ninja 650) and GizmoRR (my 2009 Kawasaki Versys 650). Well, with that, we decided to leave after work on Wednesday to at least as far as Bakersfield to avoid the valley's heat. We left Bakersfield first thing in the morning on Thursday so that we get into Vegas at a reasonable hour and avoid the Mojave Desert's heat! We felt like we accomplished quite a bit in those 3 hours of conversation...
One of the last 2 things to do was to tell our parents and look into what we were going to wear... We called Joe's mom, Mrs. Isaacs, to tell her about our plan, and she was extremely happy, very supportive and super-duper delighted for us! Mrs. Isaacs even hinted to the fact that if we would want anyone to go/be present, that she would be honored (we were going to extend an invitation to her anyway). After she checked her calendar (she's a nurse in a burn unit at a hospital in Phoenix), she found out she worked the night before, and knew she would make it in time if she drove up after work the morning of. We were ecstatic to know that she would attend!
Joe looked into lodging, and looked up where Graceland Chapel exactly was in Vegas. Finding that it was in the old downtown of Las Vegas, he remembered hearing/reading about the "Fremont Street Experience" (http://vegasexperience.com), and booked accommodation at the Fremont Hotel and Casino (less than 2 miles from the Chapel). Now the only thing left to do was to decide what to wear? With "the cheesier the better" motto, Joe knew he wanted to go with the baby blue powder suit! That sent us on a mission to find one to rent. No easy task at hand I tell you! After calling 9 rental places, I finally found one at Jerry's Tux Rental a few miles from the hotel. I called and reserved a time for Joe to get measured and fitted. Wondering about myself, I knew I had this white dress that would do the trick. However, after showing that dress to Joe, I knew I'd be on the hunt for something else! Wednesday morning came and I finally found a pretty white little sun dress online that I liked. With no time to have it mailed to San Jose, I ordered it and had it sent ahead to the hotel, since we were leaving that afternoon. Not knowing if it'll fit, or what it would look like on me, I put my faith in what I thought was the best fit, and went with it.
Counting down the hours to our departure time on the bikes was fun! Having packed, checked, and cleaned the bikes the day before, Joe and I connected on the hour, and did an hourly countdown with much enthusiasm! Once home after work, we kissed the girls (our pups Annie and Foxie) good-bye, and set out to ride off into the sunset...
Ok, well it wasn't that romantic quite yet, given it was a long slog up the 680 and down the I-5 to Bakersfield to ride just to get there! However, when we got to Lost Hills by 9pm (about 50 miles north of Bakersfield), we were tired from being in traffic earlier, and riding into the evening. We saw a vacancy sign at the Days Inn, and figured it was as good as anything. Uh, yeah no, it does not come recommended! There were stray cats everywhere, the motel was shady, but at least the linens appeared to be clean, and we were greeted by a very friendly clerk. Sold! All we needed was a bed for 6 hours and a warm shower in the morning.
The next morning called for an early departure, as it was going to be 108 degree F getting into Las Vegas. As we passed "Peggy Sues 50's Diner" on the I-15 in Yema, we knew we had to stop there to eat something! The air conditioning was also a very welcoming change from the heat. After a great meal, we shopped around in the gift shop. It's a gift shop like no other with memorabilia ranging from "The Wizard of Oz" to "Elvis" to "I Love Lucy" and so forth... We liked taking pictures with the Elvis statues given where we were heading! ;) We knew Joe's mom would have LOVED to shop there herself, so we bought her a little belated birthday present as we thought of her!
The rest of the way to Las Vegas was uneventful, but oh soooo hot! We stopped a few times to dehydrate, to drink water, and wet our clothes for evaporation while riding in the heat. It was so hot that you were dry again before even getting back on the bike to ride! Of course, you can't buy a gallon of water and not also have a little fun... Let's just say Joe got soaked a few times! We finally made it into Las Vegas, and was just beat from the heat and straight ride on the freeway, instead of the twisty beauties around us. Given that we wear ATGATT (pronounced "at-gat" - All The Gear All The Time) on the motorcycles, you can imagine how hot I was decked out in full leathers, and Joe in his stitch! Finally upon arriving at the hotel, the first thing we did was to strip the gear (we wear shorts and t's under c'mon now!), and hung out over the air conditioning. Exhaustion had taken it's toll, and a nap was in our near future.
We were out for about 3 solid hours! Since Vegas is the city that doesn't came alive until night time, it was nothing out of the ordinaire to go and "join the party" at 9pm! Since we had to get a marriage license before going to the Chapel, we decided to take care of that first. We got dinner and walked over to the Marriage License Bureau that was a couple of blocks down the street. We had learned earlier that it was open from 6am to 12am, 7 days a week. Walking in at 10pm was quite fun! We were not the only couple there... even the strange couple that came in with the guy obviously wasted and the gal not far behind him, was an amusing sight to see! For some reason butterflies and knots had overtaken my stomach by this point, and I was one ball of nerves! I was excitedly nervous and it was very apparent in filling out of the forms, signing it, and later into the evening (story to come!). After 1/2 hour we had our license, and just needed it to be made official the following day!
I was dying to see my dress that had arrived at the hotel earlier in the afternoon, so I sent Joe ahead downstairs so that I had 5 minutes to try it on after we got back to our hotel. Within a few minutes Joe got a text that read "Oh my gosh, a bride's worst nightmare... the dress doesn't fit!!!" I was in panic mode! I changed and went downstairs to meet Joe. I was not a happy camper, and knew it meant that I will have to go out in the morning into the streets of Las Vegas and shop for something while Joe picked up his tux. It also meant that I had to forgo the 3 hour bridal package I had at the Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino's Spa (across the street), since stores only opened at 11am. I was not happy! :( I tried to enjoy a little bit of the Fremont Street Experience with Joe, but my mind was at that of the dress not fitting. After a while I asked Joe if we could go back upstairs so I could try it again, perhaps this time with his eyes closed and his help. Back in the room we tried, and he wasn't able to get the back closed while not trying to look at the dress at the same time. I thought with his help it could work, as there is a panel to pull together before zipping it up. But with a few tries Joe confirmed that it just wasn't going to go up and closed, and with that I knew what awaited me the following morning.
Finally getting into bed by midnight, I only slept until 2 am. I fell asleep quickly, but could feel the entire time that I was tossing and turning... not only over the stress of the dress, but mostly realizing that this AMAZING man was to become my husband tomorrow!!! What a dream come true! I don't always quite grasp what I've done in life to deserve to be so blessed by being loved by a guy like Josef, but knew that this was just meant to be... I was solemnly and utterly content, so excited, so grateful, so unbelievably blessed and happy, and of course, nervous like crazy!!!
By 2am I had it with trying to sleep, so I watched a movie, while researching the stores in the area for what they might have in store. I was also texting with Joe's mom (knowing she was working and on break - I told her about the dress). True to mother-in-law fashion, she was able to bring along a "back up dress" for in case I couldn't find anything in the stores! Gotta love it when you MIL-to-be steps up to the plate like that! That eased the nervous a bit, but I was still disappointed to miss the spa appointment in order to go and look for something. By 4am I was bored, and went to Joe's bedroom to wake him up! I knew he'd probably be grumpy and tired, but I was really nervously excited, and very bored. Also, l just had to try the dress I ordered just one more time! While Joe was waking up, he thought that it was about 7am, and with excitement I shared that it was only 4am, knowing he would probably be upset. Quite the opposite! He thought it was "cute" that I woke him up. I was very appreciative of his relaxed and loving attitude. I shared my thoughts, and he got up (without complaining). We walked over to a Walgreens that's open 24-hours to buy a little sewing kit, thinking that maybe we could do something with it to hold the dress together in the back. It was already 89 degree F outside so early in the morning. Back in the hotel room, before putting the dress on again, I asked Joe what he was doing when trying to close the back? Joe was like "uh I just pull up the zipper" in his most manly voice ever, not trying to show me how all of this fashion talk was NOT up his alley! Well, with a dress like that, you have to close the panel that extends over one's back first, before pulling up the zipper (hence the reason for bridesmaids at the September wedding!). So with dress in hand, I showed Joe how it's done. When I had the dress on, and with Joe's eyes still half closed (not wanting to see me before in the dress), Joe did as we discussed, and guess what? The dress's zipper pulled up WITHOUT a problem! I was soooo relieved!!! Joe could not help but celebrate with me by dancing around in the room. It was quite the sight to see!
So with knowing that the dress fits perfectly well, I was able to sleep from about 5am-8am. When 8am rolled around, the excitement of the events of the day started to kick in for both of us!!! Not to get any more cheesy, but before we went to breakfast, we took a moment to slow down and just to take it all in...
We acknowledge how far we've come in a short period of time, how utterly grateful we were for what we shared, the family and friends we have in our lives that love and support us every step of the way, the journey about to unfold, and the new start to a new chapter in the book we started "writing" the day we met. I was in awe and in tears by being so honored to become this man's wife. A title that I don't feel I have "earned," but yet one that I hope to fill with love, respect and honor as years go by.
Joe went off on his motorcycle to pick up his tux by 10am. I was sure that the store manager would not be pleased to see Joe pack a neatly pressed suit into 3 motorcycle bags, but Joe was positive that it would be ok. Given that I had an hour before my spa appointment, it was nice to relax, and continue to take it all in. I also went to a local gift store and looked at a fun gift for Joe to remember the day by. I was able to find a vendor that sold poker chips and engraved them with your words of choice. I chose a poker chip with Elvis on it, and engraved our names to be (Joe and Anel Isaacs) with our wedding date on it. I surely loved it, and hoped he would too! After I got a call from Joe saying that the blue suit was a little too big, but good enough, and fitted into his motorcycle bags, I knew I could go to my spa appointment not worrying about what was going on there. Joe said that he had fun trying it on, and putting it away in his motorcycle luggage! I'm sure he got a look or three from the manager, but all in all, it sounded like he was pleased. Phew! Joe too wanted to run a couple of errands, and would be back at the hotel while I was at my spa appointment.
The Spa was truly awesome and relaxing for a girl that doesn't get to do that often! I got my nails, hair, and make-up done. The women were extremely friendly, and I had to laugh at how many times I heard "oh honey/suga', we do this a lot!" Only in Vegas right? It was so much fun nonetheless! The story that stands out from the entire experience was that I went in thinking I'll just do something simple with my hair and make up. The lady gave me quite a "out-of-my-comfort-zone" make-up look that I've never done before. But it looked great! With my hair I just wanted some kind of nice up do in the back. As she was working, we talked about the 2 big weddings coming up, and I described to her what I was thinking how I'd like my hair done for the CA wedding given the theme. Well, seeing that I wasn't facing the mirror and had her do whatever was "elegant, but simple," she created what she thought I was describing that I wanted to do with my hair for the CA wedding. Well, when she turned me around I was amazed to see what a beautiful job she did! I LOVED it!! Now I'll have to think of something completely different to do with my hair for the CA wedding. Walking away at 2pm I felt like I was gone for days in some exotic location, and felt very pampered. Seeing that it was also NV and not CA, I was amazed at how cheap it was, compared to what I'll pay in CA in September for all that.
Back at the hotel Joe was getting dressed and waiting on the arrival of his mother and her friend, Kate, from Phoenix. While I got dressed Joe went down to the lobby to meet his mama! Joe had bought these "Elvis sunglasses" with side burns a mile long! Ha! He greeted me with them, as well as him mom! That is Joe for you... fun, quirky, funny, and always up to something to make you laugh! He looked awesome though! Joe and his mom shared a special moment downstairs as he asked his mom to fix his bow tie and cufflinks. I love how Joe thinks of ways to include his mom in our lives, and make her feel part of our story. He too calls her every weekend and share about our adventures, asks for her opinion, and take her advice. It's been a wonderful joy to see their relationship blossom and one I know he'll continue to foster even with having a wife. I have so much respect for Mrs. Isaacs (snr.), and I love seeing how he treats his mother with equal respect, appreciation and above all, love.
I asked Joe to ask his mom to come up a few minutes before he did in order to help me get ready (if she wanted to). She absolutely did! We too shared a few moments together that I'll always treasure. She looked so wonderfully cheesy herself!! We first exchanged hugs and kind words of how we looked, felt, what was ahead, and then I got "the look" from my MIL-to-be. She was silent for a moment, and took a moment to take it all in as well. I wondered if this is the moment where I promise her that I'll always and forever be good to her son? But it wasn't like that as in the movies. It was just a quiet moment of exchanged looks between a mother and a daughter-to-be. I didn't have to say anything she didn't already know, nor did she have to promise me anything I didn't already have. I surely do love both of my parents, but given they are so far away on a special day like today, I was grateful for the motherly love I received from Mrs. Isaacs. She shared a few words of wisdom with me (and also a few secrets on how to keep Joe in line! Ha!) that I will take with me for always. Mrs. Isaacs and I went over:
Something old (my grandmother's bracelet of 1945),
Something new (my dress),
Something borrowed (my grandmother's gold band for Joe to wear),
Something blue (the butterfly on the garter),
And a silver sixpence in her shoe (bought at Trudy's Bridal).
It was truly a special moment. Thank you Mom!
So with that Joe came back up to the room, and saw me for the first time all dressed up. He might not admit it, but I saw the "swallow hard, and don't cry look" and could only look at him with much adoration! He looked oh sooooo handsome himself! How lucky am I???
Check out those side burns!
A dress that fits!
Since we had some time to kill before the Limo showed up, Joe and his mom put some zip ties around a bouquet I had delivered to the hotel from the florist next door. The first time I called the florist and inquired about their wedding bouquets, it started at $125. Yikes! I called back an hour later and asked just for an everyday bouquet to be delivered to the hotel room (only for $29.99), and it was perfect for the occasion! I wrapped a belt that came with the dress that I wasn't going to use around the "everyday" bouquet, and ta-da, we had a wedding bouquet!!
For the remainder of the time, we took a few pictures in the room. We didn't hire a photographer for this event, because we already knew the church had one, and that we weren't allowed to take pictures in the church anyways. So Mrs. Isaacs' longtime friend, Kate, took hold of my camera to take some pictures of the 2 or 3 of us. I felt a little guilty after the first 3 shots, because I was always telling her where to point and how to shoot. But Kate was AWESOME!! She took every direction and every picture I requested with much grace and patience. She went from the first picture of the camera flash popping up against her face, to taking some fun pictures and lasting memories in the end. Kate, you might have found a new calling! Thank you so much Kate! And thank you soooo much for putting up with my barking orders as well! ;)
The Limo from the Chapel finally arrived, and picked us up promptly at 4:15pm. The driver was pretty friendly, but he drove like a crazy man the 2 miles we had to go. We were shaking and rolling around in the back of the Limo! Joe dubbed him "wild man on a mission!" His mission? To get us to the Chapel on time that is!
Arriving at Graceland Wedding Chapel, we were happy to be there safely, and had to pay for all of the services ahead. While Joe was taking care of that, Joe's mom signed our marriage certificate as a witness. We were honored to have her do that.
As you read earlier in the package, there is a "rose presentation" and a "rose boutonniere" included as well. I thought it would be great to give my MIL-to-be the roses they would present us with, since I already had the bouquet. It was sweet to see the smile of appreciation for the thought on her face!
Joe got the boutonniere, and he also had his mom pin it on. That was another special moment between them. Here I stepped a few steps back with the camera and just let the 2 of them enjoy it. Besides, she only get to do it 2 more times!! Haha!
I really enjoyed capturing their smiles as they exchanged some words, cried, and hugged! Awe how special!
Kate took some more pictures of us out in the lobby as we heard the music for the couple before us getting married. We thought they were in there for a while, but they were at the tail end of their ceremony, as we saw the flash go off a few times. It's not only until we entered the chapel portion of the event that we realized how quickly everything happens.
This is literally how it fast it went:
The minister came out and introduced himself. Gave us a run down of how what happens when, who stands where, and what we do. He then asked if we'd like to be called Josef and Ella, Joe and Ella, Josef and Anel, or Anel and Joe. We settled on Anel and Joe, and then in Elvis came. Elvis shook our hands, told us that he'll sing "Love Me Tender" while walking me in, and "Viva Las Vegas" when the show is over. He said he'll give me away to Joe, and then play the guitar quietly in the background during the ceremony. Elvis then asked, "Ok, got that?" I think!! I was still shocked and staring at the 6 foot 6 inches Elvis that showed up in his black uni-outfit over towering me. I didn't even have time to think! The doors to the lobby closed, the minister took his stance behind the alter, Joe's mom and Kate took their seats, Joe stood in front, and Elvis started singing "Love Me Tender!" It was a voice that would put any woman in Dreamland whether he was THE King or not! Before I knew truly what was happening, I was walking down the aisle towards Joe! I locked eyes with Joe and again, while trying to take in the moment, and listening to the song, I remember thinking, "I love that man sooo much and I am so thrilled, honor and blessed to become his wife!!!" All of a sudden I was standing next to Joe, listening to the minister say "We are gathered here to witness...", completely having missed Elvis saying that "the King" is giving me to this man to be married, shaking Joe's hand, and Joe coming towards us with his Elvis glasses on and doing the Elvis thing after shaking the King's hand! (I saw all this on the DVD afterwards given where my thoughts were!). The minister read 1 Corinthians 13 (my favorite Bible verse of all times and to be read at our other 2 weddings!), having us exchange vows (which I messed up on "for better or for worst"), and putting the rings on our fingers (which Joe messed up on by taking my right hand instead of left!), and pronouncing us "Husband and Wife!!!" Joe went in for the kiss even before the minister said "You may kiss the Bride" and Elvis started singing "Viva Las Vegas!" Instead of walking back down the aisle at first as instructed before, Joe and I started rocking out to the song. Joe's mom joined us in dancing with the King. The King ever so kindly reminded us to walk back down the aisle, in which we danced some more back down the aisle! So fun! When the song ended, Elvis literally left the building! (You can see on the DVD Joe asking where Elvis is going as we have it as part of the package to take pictures with Elvis afterwards). The minister assured Joe that Elvis will be back in a minute and only then that is when Joe and I had a moment to breath and asked ourselves "what the hell just happened?" in a span of 5-8 minutes? Well, before we could even answer that question, the photographer instructed us to stand here, and there, and to do this, and to do that. The minister disappeared, Elvis came back in while we posed, took a few shots with us, and then again, left the building. Within 15 minutes we were in the Chapel and out! (DVD of the ceremony and pictures with Elvis to follow!) It's then that we really realized that we are now officially "Mr. and Mrs. Josef Ray Isaacs!!!"
Now we REALLY took a breather, but it was so darn hot, that we quickly took some more pictures in the courtyard of the little white chapel, before the Limo took us back to the hotel. We were back at the hotel at 5:19pm and our heads were swimming!
Joe realized what had happened and tried to run away, but I caught him just in time!!!
We also took some pictures on Fremont Street (where the "Experience" is), before we went back into the hotel to celebrate, and to cool down!
"Oh Elvis, I'm your biggest fan!!!"
We relived the wedding over verbally, laughed about the funny moments, and shared in the memories of this new chapter in our lives, while basking in the newness of being husband and wife!!!
Marleen called right away to congratulate us, and said to me "Congratulations Mrs. Isaacs!" Joe's mom responded with "Thank you very much!" as she was distracted with taking her shoes off. We all burst out laughing knowing that Marleen was talking to me, and not Joe's mom. Joe's mom instantly realized that she wasn't the only Mrs. Isaacs anymore, and also started laughing! Joe's mom and Kate took us out to a wonderful dinner that evening at our hotel's fancy restaurant, the "Second Street Grill," and we celebrated what is to be years of awesome adventures and many a memory to be made!!!
Oh so many good times were shared on this entire trip, that it's hard to capture every single moment! I hope we did captures the essence of Our Day!!! (Stay tuned as we share about our trip back, and decking out the motorcycles in wedding gear!)
We look forward in celebrating in a formal ceremony and reception with everyone in California in September, and in South Africa in December!
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