Jeff and Kristin started their married life together a week ago today at the Marietta House.

All signs point toward great success, taking their choices for this service and reception into consideration.

In my 33 years living in Central New York, I’d never been to this spot some 25 miles southwest of Syracuse. My bad. My dear wife Karen had attended a reception with our friend Michelle. She knew our GPS was taking us down the right roads.

The weather was gorgeous this mid-October Saturday on the backyard patio of the refurbished old house, the sky blue as Kristin’s father led her to her groom on a long walk on green grass.

Jeff could not contain himself when his bride was delivered to his side.

The officiator was fantastic, taking them poignantly through the vows they’d written. My eyes did not stay dry.

They slipped away for a photo session. Karen and I caught them in a sports car. Nice. No, they did not leave for good.

Karen was wise enough to ask one of our friends at the table – yes, it was Michelle – to snap our picture at the start of the reception, when things were still a bit serious.

We were seated with nice women who work with Kristin, Karen and Michelle, and significants.

Do you think Alison and her husband Terry got along with Karen and I?

A great time was had by all, from the drinks to the fantastic buffet meal to the conversation.

Hover over a gallery photo for a description. Click on an image for an enlarged slide show.

After the important folks danced, we all did. Karen preferred to take our best moves while in our chairs at the table. I actually got out on the dance floor for one spin with Alison, whose husband didn’t particularly want to go out on the floor either.

A big party for Jeff and Kristin Jenkins’ wedding surely was an awesome way to celebrate my dear wife Karen’s birthday. Kristin even baked Karen a cupcake when she made their wedding cake. She’s that way.

Before we left, I got the best photo I could have of Kristin and her gang from our table, posed for a few different picture-takers at different angles.

What’s the best wedding reception you ever attended, and why? What’s the best birthday party you ever had, and why? Which is your favorite photo, and why?