"Samantha"

After an emotional morning and spending a lot of time with my father, it was time to get ready for the wedding. Soon after lunch, the makeup artist and hairdresser arrived. Hebe had converted one of the many bedrooms in the house into a space so I could get ready for my big day with the girls.

When I was ready, I looked in the mirror and was impressed. I was completely enchanted by my dress. It was light, made of intricately embroidered tulle, almost like very fine lace. It had a fitted bodice that fell to mid-thigh and flared out in a mermaid style, with a light, low-volume skirt. The neckline was V-neck, with thin straps, and the back was bare, reaching mid-back. It was beautiful and delicate, lined with a nude fabric that gave the dress a more off-white than white appearance.

My hair was styled in a low, messy bun, with loose curls falling to the side, adorned with white orchids. On my feet, I wore white flats with translucent crystals adorning the strap at the toes and