A Wedding in Istanbul

Now Husband went to his cousin’s daughter’s wedding last month in Istanbul.  It was held at an old palace in the heart of the city.  The remains of the ancient exterior had been preserved, and the interior was rebuilt for celebrations such as this.  It was a new building within the remains of an old building.  The event was black tie, elaborate, and no expense was spared.  Even the mayor attended.  But, unlike a lot of US weddings, there were no bridesmaids, no groomsmen, no procession.  The bride and groom entered alone, waving and smiling.  The guests responded in kind.  It was more like a rock concert or political event.  After the very brief civil ceremony, conducted by a friend of the family, the guests got down to the business at hand: having a rollicking good time.