Now that we had established the date, we had to select the venue. We were new to the Tallahassee area, and had no idea where to begin. We were looking for a natural beauty setting--something unique--one that would require little or no additional decoration. For some strange reason we were drawn to an outdoor vs. an indoor location. We looked at Maclay Gardens, Lake Ella, and Wakulla Springs to name a few. I know an outdoor wedding in December does not sound feasible but remember Florida typically has very mild winters. Maclay gardens are beautiful year round. In December the camellias are in full bloom. Lake Ella is as charming. During the holiday season the lanterns are adorned with wreaths and the gazebo is outlined with garland and lights. During the holidays Wakulla Springs lodge is always nicely decorated for their annual New Year's Eve Gala. One Saturday, just weeks before the wedding, we set out determined find a venue. While driving around looking for ideas, we drove by the Old Capitol and I made the comment how beautiful the Christmas decorations were and Robert said, "Wouldn't it be neat, if we could have the wedding there! How many couples can say that they were married on the Capitol grounds?" I responded, "Now that would be a story to tell our grandchildren! Stop; let's go inside.” Once inside, I was overwhelmed with the beautiful Christmas decorations and I stated, "This is the place." We have to find out how to hold the wedding here!" We spoke with the receptionist and asked her how to go about getting permission to hold an event on the grounds. She gave me a contact persons name and number and told me to give her a call on Monday. I could hardly wait. First thing that morning I gave her a call. I explained what I wanted and she responded, “What a great idea! When is the wedding?" When she realized that it was only a few weeks away, she said in a hesitant voice, "Normally we need a six month notice." I then began to plead my case. After hearing how excited I was, she told me she would send me the application and she what she could do. I promptly completed and returned the application and waited for a response. Would you believe around 4:45 p.m. that same day she called and said, "You are one lucky bride. They gave you permission to hold your wedding on the Capitol grounds.”