A Dutch Tradition

A "Wishing Tree" is a traditional part of Dutch weddings and a beautiful alternative to a guest book. Guests are given a paper leaf or piece of decorative card attached to a ribbon when they arrive. During the reception, they write their best wishes to the bride and groom.

In honor of Rian's Dutch heritage, Elizabeth surprised us with a Dutch wishing tree at our wedding and it was by far my favorite decoration at the reception. Not only did it fit our "Fall in Portland" motif, but I love how it paid homage to Rian's rich Dutch roots.

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We had hoped we would fulfill our calling to the "homeland" this year and visit Holland. In fact, it was most definitely in our 2012 plans- that is until reward travel timelines (read: ridiculous schedules and booked flights) got in the way of planning our summer vacation.

Our hearts were heavy when we had to place our "Travel Holland" brochures back in their designated drawer- each roll of the little wheels felt like the symbolic pushing back of our dream vacation. We are disappointed that another year will pass without seeing loved ones abroad. 

But we have it oh so good and we certainly can't feel sorry for ourselves. After all, we will now be able to go on the Alaskan cruise our friends have been planning. YES! We'll be cruising to Alaska again this summer. Only this time we'll be with our awesome friends, enjoying the experience together. Excited for this trip is an understatement.

And if we still really long for Holland...if we really want to feel close to a country we hold dear to our hearts, we need only peel back our card holder and one by one, leaf by leaf, revisit our Wishing Tree.

*Photos by Jessica Watson Photography*