It's the final night of the Three Rivers Land Trust's Uwharrie Thru Hike. Hikers are welcomed to the group campsite near the Walker Creek Trailhead. It's threatening rain and quite windy but everyone is in high spirits for a special occasion. How many times do you get to attend a wedding in the forest?
On the 2017 Thru Hike, Krista and Marcus first met. On this Thru Hike they will wed. Planning weddings are always challenging but having one outside without electricity, no running water and no plan B in case it rains, that's tricky.
Yet, it was perfect. Take a look at the coolest wedding I've ever attended:
Beautiful tabletop arrangements of sunflowers. Marcus and Krista often pick roadside arrangements of Black-eyed Susans, Tickseed and Woodland Sunflowers. Burlap tablecloths and camp lanterns fill out the arrangements. Hikers are thrilled to see actual seats after 3 days of sitting on rocks and logs.
Catering a wedding in the forest looks like this. The big grills come on wheels. Propane heats the food. Boneless chicken breasts, corn, baked beans, pintos and collards was the menu. Oh, and cupcakes too. Joy had her gourmet s'more buffet set up as usual.
Working the grill
Krista's brother tended bar from the truck of his car. Red wine, white wine, sangria, rum, vodka, tequila, bourbon and simple mixes. What no Scotch! Beer from Four Saints was flowing as well.
She's on her way!
Guests were called to the wedding by Dave and his conch shell horn. Krista is escorted by the bartender. It's windy.
The setting is the upper field at Walker Creek Trailhead. It has a gorgeous view looking northwest. Officiated by Kim, Krista's sister. She first had to clear all the hurtles of becoming ordained. I think all you need is an internet connection and and few clicks to become ordained. During the ceremony, the wind blew and a vulture soared in the background. The bride is stunning in her butterfly dress. The groom sports a butterfly shirt and ball cap. Guests are dressed like hikers, beer in hand.
Hikers form a hiking pole arch for the couple.
Here's Dave with conch shell, ready to call things to order.
Guests headed up the hill after the ceremony. A buffet style meal followed. After dinner, Travis Morehead of TRLT spoke about the property and TRLT. David Craft had some presentations. A live auction followed with Karen, once again, coaxing bidders to dig deeper. Katherine displayed her fire building skills. Things wound down for a pleasant social evening as darkness overtook camp.
After dinner speaker David presents Crystal with an appreciation award.
I'm enjoying a beer.
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