Why 1648?

1648 is the address of the house my grandfather built; the house where my mother was raised and where I spent many Sundays and most holidays growing up.

The first full wedding I planned was my sister’s; she was married at 1648.

The day of her wedding, I felt steady and certain, even as I juggled the roles of planner, lead coordinator, florist, sound crew, and sister of the bride - in the rain! I was grateful, of course, for this next level composure, still I found myself questioning the source of my calm.

I found my answer later in the day.

Instead of flowers, the bridal party carried pictures of loved ones who are no longer with us. In the final moments before we walked, I referenced the script and passed out pictures as they were assigned. There was the answer: I’d been assigned to carry the photo of my grandfather. I would be “carrying him with me” down the aisle. I had been all day.

My grandfather was poised, observant and devout in his service to others. My grandmother was warm, cheerful and devoted to her family.

What I believe about people, service and connection are deeply rooted in who my grandparents were and all the people they raised in the house at 1648. The numbers are a reminder to me and a promise to you.