A Haven on the Bay - Nicole Ellis Page 0,22
temporarily.” She had Melinda turn away from the mirror, then opened a drawer in the vanity and retrieved her emergency-cosmetics kit, a comb with a spiked handle, a can of extra-strength hairspray, and a variety of hairpins. She’d always been good with hair and makeup and had briefly considered a career in cosmetology before deciding on being an event planner. She quickly assessed the damage, then got to work. Once Melinda’s face was clean, Tia pinned any wayward hairs back into place, gave the ornate updo a quick coating of hairspray, and fixed the bride’s makeup.
When she was finished, she spun her back around to face the mirror. This time, Melinda beamed at her image. “I don’t know how you did it, but I look even better than I did after leaving the beauty salon.” She lightly touched her hair. “I love it.”
Tia helped her to a standing position, then stepped back. “You look gorgeous.”
Melinda’s lips quivered and Tia held up her hand. “Now don’t start crying again. I’m running out of mascara!”
They both laughed, and Melinda’s cheeks took on a natural blush that made her glow.
“Are you ready?” Tia asked.
“I am.” Melinda leaned forward and wrapped her arms around Tia. “Thank you so much. I don’t know what I would have done without you.”
“You’re very welcome.” A wave of emotion came over Tia. Being a wedding coordinator wasn’t always a glamorous job, but it had its perks. She loved being a part of one of the most important days in someone’s life, even if she’d only known them for a short time.
Melinda stayed hidden in the entry hall while Tia went outside to inform the wedding party the ceremony was about to begin.
“Is she okay?” Melinda’s mother asked, worry ringing in her voice.
Tia patted her on the arm. “She’s great. All ready to go.”
“Thank you.” The deep creases lining her face smoothed out considerably as she relaxed. She gave Tia a side hug. “I appreciate your help.”
“Of course. That’s what I’m here for.” Tia smiled at her, then signaled for the music to start. “Okay, everyone. It’s showtime.”
The ushers led the mothers of the bride and groom to their seats, followed soon after by the bridesmaids and groomsmen. When it was time for Melinda to walk down the aisle, Tia slipped out behind her and stood in an unobtrusive spot near the back of the seating area.
Derek’s face held a mixture of terror and utter happiness as he waited on the steps of the gazebo. As his gaze fell on his bride, any trace of concern disappeared, and a humongous grin lit up his face. He and Melinda locked eyes and she walked toward him with a bounce in her step, her smile just as wide as his. Tia grinned too. Yes, they were going to make it.
The scent of the roses climbing the white latticework of the newly rebuilt gazebo wafted through the air. Behind it, the sun shimmered on the calm blue waters of Willa Bay and gulls flew high overhead, creating the perfect atmosphere for an outdoor wedding.
Tia watched from afar as the couple tied the knot. When they were back down the aisle, she gave them a few minutes alone, then guided the newlyweds and their wedding party over to the side of the Inn to form a receiving line.
While some of the guests exchanged pleasantries with the bride and groom, other attendees milled around, drinking wine and beer from the open bar. Everything looked good there, so Tia made her way through the crowds to check on the dinner preparations.
Debbie and Libby’s catering company, Willa Bay Provisions, had been hired for the event. Tia found them working in the Inn’s kitchen, laying out the prepared food that they’d brought ready to serve. She breathed in the mouthwatering scent of beef medallions in mushroom sauce and garlic mashed potatoes. The bride and groom had asked for something simple but delicious, and if the smells coming from the kitchen were any indication, they were going to be very happy with what they’d ordered for their reception. The caterers looked like they had everything under control and Tia didn’t want to bother them, so she left quickly.
The outdoor dining area, though, was a different story. The tables had been set as ordered with white linens and purple napkins in silver napkin holders, but Zoe was talking with the setup staff—and she didn’t look pleased.
Tia hurried over. “Is there something wrong?”
Zoe’s eyes darted across the rows of tables,