It was way back in 1973, but it’s a day that I’ll never forget.
How do you hold a wedding when all your friends are Bikers or Hippies and your parents are really straight? Answer: at a park by the river with a huge pavilion, outdoor bathrooms, a playground and a volleyball area.

Under the pavilion we had a small private ceremony for family with a small luncheon reception for all the straight folks. We had advised them that after 1pm the reception would take a change in direction with volleyball and possible marijuana use and vulgar language.

Around 1245pm you could hear the low rumble of straight pipes on about 20 Harleys’ in the distance. As I think back I smile remembering the look on my mother-in-law’s face. My mother kissed us goodbye and said be careful then made a beeline for her car. We turned up the Ozark Mountain Daredevils, changed into shorts and partied until late in the night. Joints and Jack Daniels on the volleyball court while spectators ate vodka or rum stuffed watermelons shining it on.

My only regret is that I did not hire a professional photographer, while I have some really great photos it’s not the same.

Anyone else have a non- traditional wedding story to share?

Jingles