Samantha and Matthew Engagement 2022

 

Samantha and Mathew Engagement 2022

Dave and Joyce met at SIU-Carbondale. It was a match made in heaven. The two Salukis have been married 33 years. Now the oldest, of their three daughters, is to be married. Dave has been an indispensable resource for me since 2001. He was hoping to retain business from Clayco when I was the director of communications at that firm. Since that time, our professional collaboration has endured as my career journey has involved hundreds of projects with Sandbox Creative. Along the way he has become a close friend. Along the way I’ve gotten to know and love his remarkable family.

But this blog isn’t about me. It is about the wonderful union and commitment of Samantha and Matthew. Matt’s sister Emily orchestrated a brilliant celebration in a setting located in the Antique District on Cherokee street where the historic buildings recall the growth and prosperity in Saint Louis at the turn of the century.

I was honored to have made the guest list. This occasion was loaded with memorable moments. I feel compelled to note some of them here. I saw a photo of Mathew as a youngster (maybe seven years old) dancing at a wedding with an aunt or family friend. Samantha, Dannielle and Nicole were so excited when their Kindergarden teacher arrived (in from Tampa with husband and tween son). The Cox sisters are so happy to see her. The venue was beautiful, with classic indoor and outdoor spaces and an 1880s décor accented with plants and brick architecture. It was one of those summer days in Saint Louis when the heat index was over 100 degrees but hand made fans made even that obstacle easily overcome. A Polaroid photo booth and guest book generated numerous smiles. Joyce’s mom was beaming to see the next generation taking shape. Gene and Carol are always good for a golf story. James is best man who looks to me like a perfect pick for that job. Matthew’s father quiets the crowd for a brief toast noting that the planned December wedding in Michigan is likely to be the “polar opposite” weather. Sidebar conversation with Nicole: “Your parents are so proud of you…” Nicole is home from Drake University and confidently remarks with a touch of sarcasm “Of course, it’s all about me”. Joyce is delighted to see her youngest blossoming into a creative powerhouse. Back at the Cox compound at 308 Simmons Avenue, middle child Dannielle is statuesque in what looks to be a winner as a bridesmaid dress. 

PHOTO: l to r below Matthew's sister Emily, and Cox sisters Samantha, Dannielle and Nicole 

 

So much joy, happiness and anticipation cannot be denied. As the couple posed together for the Polaroid Samantha and Matthew seemed poised for a long and lovely union. Just lovely.