Love Story Spring 2009

Kristina (Merrill) & Christopher Clay

September 20, 2008
Burlington Country Club, Burlington, VT

By Karen Sturtevant

HOW WE MET:

Who would have known that beginning a new job would lead to meeting my future husband? Fortunately for me he was assigned the responsibility of my training and immediately captivated me with his character. E-mails and phone calls quickly became less about work and more about us. After a few months, Chris asked me on an official first date. We spent the Sunday before Labor Day in picturesque Stowe enjoying the quant shops and riding the gondola. Evening was painted by a gorgeous sunset on Burlington’s waterfront and a scrumptious dinner from which I still have the receipt! Both of us knew this relationship was the beginning of something special. To complete our first date, Chris took me home to meet his family!

We spent our time getting to know one another and enjoyed hiking, apple picking, movies, and weekend get-a-ways. The direction of our relationship was clear to both of us: we were in this for the long haul. Moving in together was a milestone as we watched our friends marry and start families. As time passed, the question on the minds of our dear friends was “When?”

OUR ENGAGEMENT:

Christmas Eve, eight years strong, Chris asked me to marry him in a most romantic way. After returning home from dinner and a movie, I went upstairs to change; when I returned, all the Christmas lights were shining and candles flickering. Chris handed me what appeared to be a billfold and explained that someone had left this at the door. Confused, I opened to what were the specifics of my diamond! As my mind raced, Chris interrupted and suggested I get the ‘special’ ornament with the Mickey Mouse ears from our Christmas tree. Finally found, I struggled with the clasp, and with his help opened to find a perfect diamond ring. Taking his cue, Chris got down on one knee and proposed. I was at a loss for words; emotions overtook me as I burst into tears. We hugged; he placed this perfect ring on my finger and asked, “Is that a yes?” I replied with an excited “Yes!”

MOST MEMORABLE DETAILS:

I presented a personalized ornament to my would-be Maid of Honor on Christmas day with the wording “Will you be my Maid of Honor?” Our future flower girl was given a basket with faux rose petals to use as practice for the real thing. My most memorable details begin at the surprise bachelorette and bachelor party and wine tasting shower, continue with the welcome cruise for out-of-town guests, the surprise slideshow at our reception dinner, and conclude with the after-wedding tailgate brunch. Walking down the isle, seeing the emotion of our guests, and witnessing the tears of Chris’s brother are memories that will remain with me for my lifetime.

PLANNING ADVICE TO BRIDES:

~ Choose a wise, experienced Maid of Honor as you will rely on her for so many things.
~ Don’t sweat the small stuff; everything doesn’t have to be absolutely perfect!
~ Have fun – this experience is supposed to be enjoyable!
~ Accept all the help you can get. You won’t realize all the planning and work involved until you’re knee deep!
~ From my Maid of Honor: have plenty of wine available.
~ Take a time out to truly appreciate the day. Make the day real, not surreal: imprint memories and scenes in your mind’s eye, appreciate the hard work of so many, and bask in the love of your friends and family. These are the memories that standout and will stay with me forever.

Thank you to Kristina (Merrill) Clay for providing the content for this article.

Index of Love Stories at Vermont Bride Magazine