Southern Weddings

Last year, when we were gathering together the pages of marriage advice that filled V6, I loved reading everything, but now that I’m engaged, I want to soak up all of the wise words shared like a sponge! It’s so much fun reading back over all the advice for Sweet Tea Sunday each week, and I hope that whether you’re dating, engaged, newly married, or married for decades, these posts encourage you and make you smile. Rita and Nick’s love story is one for the books, and we especially loved their sweet thoughts on the secret to their 64-year marriage!

Justin DeMutiis

What is your wedding date? April 15, 1950
Children? Three children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren
When did you know he/she was “the one?” Rita: The only thing equaling the longevity of our mariage is the ironic prelude of our story. On a summer day in Brooklyn, I was in the park with my two closest friends, and two young gentlemen passed by several times before working up the courage to talk to us and eventually ask my friends out. Those two guys who asked out my best friends were Nick’s best friends. Nick: Afterward, I was playing ball, and my best friends came up to tell me that they both had dates, and that they saved the best one for me…to which I replied, “Oh yeah, sure.” So our first time meeting was on a blind date with the two other couples. As it turns out, our friends only lasted a few dates, and here we are 64 years later.
What’s the secret to your marriage? Respect, love, and faith. We spend time separately socializing with different friends and taking part in different activities, but we always find time to take walks together, talk, dance, and eat our meals together. Our personalities have always complemented each other, but we continue to evolve, and grow to love each other more each and every day. We always put others before ourselves; with our words and actions, we always think of each other first. The love for our children and grandchildren only brings us closer, and our faith has gotten us through the bumps in the road.
What is your favorite thing to do together? We love to dance, watch movies, travel, and spend time with close friends. We’re very active in community events, and once a year, we participate in skits and dances in our community’s annual talent show. Our favorite dances together are the Lindy and the Foxtrot.
What is your best marriage advice? Respect each other’s thoughts and ways, and try to enjoy each and every day of your lives together.

Written with love by Lisa