it seems only appropriate to begin the story of dot and c's wedding rehearsal with gnocchi 'casanova.' part of the romance of eating these plump spinach dumplings with the texture of marshmallows is being tucked in a corner at restaurant casanova, so your expression of dreaminess is a secret between you and your plate.
casanova himself knew that appreciation of food and wine played a key part in the art of seduction. when two people revel in flavor together a kindredness transpires, a sort of language-less vow in devotion to sharing the enjoyment of life. it is a bond so potent and big it overflows, reaching into all surrounding lives.
for instance, pickle's. she loves basking in love which is why she is the perfect pup for dot & c. her permanent tuxedo attire was finally appropriate for the occasion.
the world gets a little quieter before something big is about to happen. we sense the shape of what is waiting in the distance. therein sits the gift. our alertness allows us to witness a hundred little moments defined by their stillness. that is exactly how it was on the eve of dot & c's wedding day.
of course, the sun cooperated in helping us take notice.
as it set, the groom carved out a circle in the sand for his bride.
it was almost time for us to close our eyes and wait, and sense, and wait.
the flowers had taken their positions. the thing about dot is that she knows simplicity is the ultimate extravagance. her wedding flowers were cupful after cupful of roses in every shade of white, floating gardenias, aromatic stock, and french tulips that curved their slim stems toward wherever there was candlight.
when the day was almost done, we gathered back at dot's big dining room table with their officiant, erin, and sucked down sushi rolls from the mall.
and meat lover's pizza. because before there can ever be champagne, their should be pizza from a cardboard box.
here it comes!
notes
* restaurant casanova is located in carmel-by-the-sea at 5th avenue, between mission and san carlos. visit them online here.
* burst & bloom is dot's amazing shop and florist services in carmel. her website is here.