Teamwork Makes Dreamwork

Breaking with tradition

Suz and Laura decided to marry on the day they first met. It was a natural choice - after all the date was probably one of the most significant in each of their lives!

Let me tell you a little back story to their relationship: on their first date Laura was an hour late because of a road closure. This prompted a panicked message to her friend Fiona who told her an alternative route then various calls and messages to Suz telling her she was on her way but running late.

Suz says when Laura arrived, she was a bit stressed at being so late and “swaggered” up to her with purpose. They had a coffee together before Suz’s friend called her to make sure she didn’t need the classic ‘get out of jail free’ card with a family emergency.

But Suz was having such a good time and besides, she thought she could probably take Laura in a fight if she turned out to be of dubious character!

Laura’s first impressions of Suz were that she was beautiful, funny and had questionable taste in women - which was great news for her!

Suz actually thought Laura was a drug dealer as she seemed to have a lot of cash in her pocket…turns out it was just because the shop close to her house rarely had a card machine that worked!

On the 22 January 2022, Suz and Laura got engaged. Suz had planned a romantic proposal on the gondola at Ben Nevis. But the Scottish weather had other plans - there was a hoolie blowing so fiercely the gondola was suspended that day.

Plan B was swung into action. Suz proposed on a wee bridge they had come across in the forest while walking their dog, Toffee. Laura thought she was just caught up in the moment until Suz produced a beautiful engagement ring. It was perfect.

Their wedding was not only the start of a new life together but also marked the start of a new chapter in their story.

Both women decided to break tradition and chose their new surnames.

Of course it has sentimental value to them.

Here is what I told the guests at their wedding:

“The dotted line has been signed and everything is in order. We have now almost

come to the end of the marriage ceremony. On behalf of our newly wedded couple,

Suz and Laura would like to thank you all for coming here today and making this day

truly special.

“They have chosen to begin their new life together with a new name. The name they

have chosen is about protection, about safety and shelter, a strong hold.

“It’s also the name of a hotel that they love to go to in Fort William….where the

proposal was made. A beautiful connection.

“And now it is time to party!!

“Everyone, will you please now stand and prepare to follow your brides, to raise a

glass and toast their union.

“Can I have your loudest cheer as I present to you, for the first time, the newly

married ……Mrs and Mrs Garrison!!!!!!!!”

This was the first time that their new name was announced.

What a lovely story from our Mo.

Breaking from tradition when it comes to your wedding is a bold, brave move.

No-one has to change names when they marry.

In the UK, traditionally women would take their husband’s name but in today’s society of non-binary and same sex couples (and independent women) this doesn’t suit everyone.

Suz and Laura decided to forgo name-blending and chose a meaningful surname that not only reminded them of their happiest moments but leads them into a chapter that preserves and weaves their new lives together.

Celebrate People wishes the Garrisons all the very best on their journey!

Editor’s Note: Maureen Waterston has been with Celebrate People since 2019. She can be contacted here: Maureen (Mo)