Unfocused Favorites, in Three Takes

A professional photographer captured these candid shots as my Parents walked from their marriage ceremony to the wedding reception.

I love these images. Although they are out of focus and worn, they catch the day's sparks.

Schweinfurt, Germany, May 1948. My Parents make their way from the "church"—a converted barn—in which they just were married to the reception hall. Their witnesses and wedding party follow them.

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Schweinfurt, Germany, May 1948. As my Parents, on the far right, walk to the reception, other Displaced Persons greet them with flowers and good wishes.

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Schweinfurt, Germany, May 1948. My maternal Grandfather, Jake, and my paternal Grandmother, Tatjana, greet my Parents at the reception's entryway with the traditional plate of wine, bread, and salt. Now, the party will get under way.