This was probably one of my favorite events to date. I mean, I do A LOT of Weddings and Babies and Families and I'm around happiness all of the time (which is super spectacular, by the way!), but Fanny was different. She was turning 100 years old and was just so full of life! I would've guessed she was in her 80's to be honest (and that was 20 years ago!!!).
She came walking right in, just a walker on wheels to aid her. AND... she had a broken foot! I mean.. c'mon! AMAZING! As she made her into the room, I noticed people halting conversations just to catch a glimpse of her. It was very clear that she had touched each and everyone's heart that was at that party. She obviously is a revered character in her Family and a GREAT Grandmother to quite a few that were there.
As the night went on, we enjoyed fried chicken and a picnic-style buffet and decorations. Fanny is apparently "famous" within her Family for her fried chicken, so it was only fitting that we have some! So many people stepped up to the mic and her grandson even had a plaque made that basically told the story of her life - which he read. and I think just about everyone stood there in complete awe. She was born abroad, only met her first husband because he missed the boat (the TITANIC!). They came to Chicago and settled here and lived on the West Side through BOTH World Wars, the Great Depression, and eventually she moved to Lake Shore Drive and still resides there. She has seen it ALL. and she still has a heart of gold.
Personally I was so touched by her birthday and by her insistence on doing the Charleston, even with a broken foot! It was true honor to be asked to capture this VERY Special Day.
