St. John: Pre-Wedding Festivities

Where do I even begin? I thought I had been to a few nice places in my life, but nothing compares to the U.S. Virgin Islands. The clearest water I have ever seen and the softest sand I have ever felt. Completely unreal - most definitely a location that I only dreamed of.

Are you kidding me?!

I had never been to a destination wedding before and I completely understand the appeal! Spending a week with families and friends of the couple prior to the actual day makes such a difference! Mr. Malone & I were fortunate enough to stay in a villa with the groom's family and when it came time to say goodbye, I was crushed. I had spent so much time with his parents and sisters (and the cutest children EVER) that I had become attached. Have no fear, we all became friends on Facebook after going our separate ways in the airport. Oh, technology... you are awesome!

The view from our villa - The Beach Estate.

We were able to explore so much of the island while we were there and fully immerse ourselves in island living. It didn't take long for us to dive right in; we were changed into our bathing suits & on our way to Trunk Bay within 45 minutes of being on St. John. I know, rough life!

Trunk Bay

The next day was no different, as we were out the door by 8:00 AM (ahem, 5:00 in Seattle) to rent dinghies for the morning. I was a little skeptical about this dinghy business, but it was easily one of the best days we spent there. There were 15 of us that went out in 4 boats, all equipped with life jackets and snorkel gear. After a slight mishap at sea, we were "storming the beaches" and making our way around the island, checking out the marine life at each location. (I should note that by "slight mishap," I mean one of the boats was broken. And by broken, I mean the back half was completely submerged in water and personal items will forever be lost.)

Our fearless leader, Captain Chimichanga!

Shockingly, most of the beaches were empty.

Mr. Malone snorkeling at Hawksnest.

Because of the heat and humidity, being in the water was the greatest way to spend our time. This allowed me to make multiple "Finding Nemo" references. I saw Dory, Crush, and that group of fish that gave directions by forming the image with their bodies! No, I am not 8 years old. One of the most amazing parts of the trip was discovering how many ties both families had to the island. Her parents met and fell in love on St. John, while his aunt lived there for four years. We had the most wonderful tour guides at our fingertips! Aunt Karen led us on a hike of Ram's Head, which turned out to be a lot more dangerous than anybody would have expected, as we were a little behind schedule and forced to hike back in the dark. Thankfully, Erik's friend from high school was prepared with flashlights. "Gotta love those hippies." Direct quote... seriously.

Ram's Head - before nightfall.

After another full day at the beach on Friday, it was time for the "rehearsal" dinner. Jessica and Erik really pulled out all of the stops for their guests and this was no exception. We were treated to a sunset catamaran cruise, and oh my goodness, it blew my mind! It was so appropriate for where we were and the atmosphere they were going for with their wedding. My only wish? That I had a better camera to capture the sunset.

Mr. Malone & I pre-catamaran.

Our 2nd tropical vacation together - and hopefully not the last.

This girl rocks my world, and has since we were 19.

No words.

While all of these activities were great in their own regard, the culmination of the trip was obviously Saturday - wedding day. As of right now, I am finding it a little difficult to put into words just how spectacular that day was... and I need to make sure I do it justice. I am afraid I must call it a night, but will leave you with a little teaser.

My beautiful friend, seeing her husband for the first time. *sigh*