How to Avoid Post-Weddding Bloat — While Still Enjoying Your Honeymoon

Tips to Avoid Bloating on Your Honeymoon

Photo: Getty Images

You’ve worked hard for your bridal body, and have successfully looked and felt your best for your big day. Don’t let your honeymoon indulgences leave you feeling bloated, sluggish, or as though you’ve undone all your hard work. Indulge, and still feel (and look) great with these tips to avoid post-wedding bloat while happily honeymooning.

Stay Hydrated
When in doubt, drink. Water that is. While guzzling H20 might not sound appealing if you’re feeling a bit bloated, it’s super important. Being properly hydrated can help flush out toxins and leave you feeling more energized and alert. Add some fresh lemon to a glass of water for a diuretic effect that keeps your vitamins intact, but can help to detox your system. (This is best done in the AM when you wake up, on an empty stomach.)

Indulge Moderately
Anyone who’s ever worn stretchy pants to Thanksgiving knows that overindulging and eating too much is a guaranteed way to leave you feeling less than your best. After working diligently to achieve your healthy wedding bod and fitness goals, of course you deserve to indulge on your honeymoon — just do so in moderation. Avoid heaping portions and endless buffets and instead, pick your favorites and avoid seconds. (But please be sure to live a little!)

Sweat it Out
Exercise does wonders for your mood, energy, and general well-being. If you’re feeling sluggish or puffy, the easiest solution is to sweat it out. This doesn’t mean you have to spend precious honeymoon hours in the gym — just lace up your sneakers and head out to explore your surroundings with your new husband, or go for a long swim in the pool or ocean. Just sneaking in a bit of cardio will leave you feeling at least a little better than if you did nothing at all — so get moving!

Avoid Carbonation
Seltzers, sodas and beer, oh my. As much as you might love these standard bar-beverages, they can leave you feeling gassy and full. By steering clear of anything too bubbly (champagne on a honeymoon is a given, obvs…) you can prevent that uncomfortable feeling in your stomach, and from being a burping, belching new bride.

See More: How to Get Flatter Abs in Time for Your Wedding (Hint: It’s Not Crunches!)

Steer Clear of Gassy Foods
Certain foods are infamous for their inflammatory, gas-inducing qualities. Beans, fatty foods, legumes, fructose, and some whole grains can lead to intestinal gas and pressure which can leave you uncomfortable. We’re not saying you have to completely avoid these, just be sure to keep an eye out that you’re not over consuming gas-producing ingredients to keep your stomach happy.

Drink Smart
Added sugars and frozen drinks can leave you feeling full and sluggish. Of course you’re going to enjoy a cocktail (or three) on your honeymoon — but to beat the bloat, just be smart. Avoid super sugary or syrupy drinks and opt for lower sugar (and calorie) options such as clear liquors and mixers, natural juices and garnishes, and those served over ice instead of creamy frozen concoctions.

Peppermint
It’s been said that peppermint and peppermint oil can help reduce bloating and can help to calm the digestive system. A cup of peppermint tea before bed can do wonders for de-bloating, and is naturally refreshing yet relaxing, too. (It will also leave you with fresh, minty breath — perfect for all those honeymoon makeout sessions.)

Pre-Wedding Wellness Retreats to Get You Looking (and Feeling!) Fabulous for the Big Day

Red Mountain Resort Wellness Retreat

Photo: Courtesy of Red Mountain Resort

Looking to jump-start your pre-wedding beauty regimen? Do it Eat, Pray, Love style! Tucked away in posh enclaves, these ultra-chic wellness retreats are filled with workout classes, healthy meals, and luxe spa treatments that’ll get you looking and feeling fab, inside and out. And trust us, after dealing with your future mother-in-law’s last minute guest list add-ons, some ritzy relaxation is a total must. And why not bring your bridesmaids along for the healthiest bachelorette party, like, ever?

Red Mountain Resort (Ivins, Utah) Above
The go-to exercise at this resort, situated near both Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park, is hiking through the red rocks, from guided treks in caves to river walks down in the canyons. You can also throw in a fitness class or two, like Pilates or yoga on top of sandstone formations, indulge at the spa with a facial or its renowned hot-stone massage, and end the day with a sunset dinner on the terrace. The best part, though, is the versatility. Whether you’re looking for wellness “lite” or a complete detox and weight-loss program, there’s a package for you. From $265 per night, all-inclusive

The Bodyholiday Wellness Retreat

Photo: Sunswept Resort

The Bodyholiday (St. Lucia)
If anything will kick-start your bridal fitness program, it’s the Olympic athletes and coaches who lead this resort’s specialized weeklong boot camps. Or you can design your own schedule à la carte: Activities run the gamut from scuba and cave diving in the Caribbean to tai chi, hiking, and studio classes like Spoga — a combo of spinning and yoga. If you’re already in shape and want to get to the next level, sign up for the quadrathlon. It begins with an eight-mile bike ride through the rain forest, transitions into a two-and-a-half-mile run up a cliff and a rock climb back down, and finishes on the beach with one and a half miles by kayak. It’s the best way to enjoy both the fitness offerings and the insanely gorgeous scenery. From $530 per night, all-inclusive

Golden Door Spa Resort

Photo: Jessica Sample Photography

Golden Door (San Marcos, California)
Since opening in the ’50s as a luxe, reclusive resort for stars like Natalie Wood and Elizabeth Taylor, this spa has been reinvented as a Japanese-style inn where everything — from its 18th-century art to the gardens, spa treatments, and food — sticks to the theme. (You get a yukata to wear at dinner!) It can accommodate up to 40 guests at a time, and most stay seven nights for meals sourced from the biodynamic garden, personal-training sessions, meditation and exercise classes, morning hikes, and in-room massages, facials, and body treatments. Pack your oversize glasses and big, floppy hat so you’ll be ready to emerge every inch the glowing engaged girl. $8,850 for seven nights, all-inclusive

Miraval Resort and Spa

Photo: Ken Hayden

Miraval Resort & Spa (Tucson, Arizona)
Miraval is the epitome of Birkenstock chic. Surrounded by desert plants and pools that look out on the Santa Catalina Mountains, it’s an environment that’s as restorative as the treatments. Brides can try the Bountiful Earth package, which includes a Moroccan-rose body wash, a bamboo-and-ginger-grass exfoliation, a clay wrap, and a juniper shower. Or the Shamana Karma Ayurvedic treatment, which uses steamed herbal pastes to purify the skin. But it’s not just the spa that creates a tranquil state of mind: The most intense fitness class is called Zen Boot Camp. And all of the earthy villas have special LED lights to help you get the best sleep you’ll probably ever have. From $549 per night, all-inclusive

See More: 50 Pre-Wedding Skincare Products Based On Every Complexion Type

Sha Wellness Resort

Photo: Courtesy of Sha Wellness Clinic

Sha Wellness Clinic (Alicante, Spain)
When supermodels like Naomi Campbell and Natasha Poly are fans, you know it has to be good. (And, well, hard-core.) Offering a fusion of Chinese and Western medicines, it’s the most clinical of the bunch, but you wouldn’t know that by looking at its sleek interiors and glass windows overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Alcohol and coffee aren’t allowed, so if you’re a caffeine addict, you’ll learn to love the Genmaicha tea that’s served. You can book a four- to 28-day program for anything from weight loss to stress management. All include medical examinations, acupuncture, and adhering to SHA’s macrobiotic-inspired diet. But you won’t feel deprived, thanks to the rooftop infinity pool, full menu of indulgent spa services, and cosmetic procedures like lasers and teeth whitening, which will leave you pampered and wedding ready from head to toe. From $307 per night

Carillon Miami Beach Resort

Photo: Courtesy of Carillon Miami Beach

Carillon (Miami Beach)
Carillon is more than just a super-luxe hotel (marble floors, crystal chandeliers); it’s also a wellness mecca. The vastness of the rooms — even the smallest are like airy apartments — and diverse offerings make it great for bachelorette trips. Lure your girls here for private yoga sessions, to relax in hot and cold thermal rooms, or for a detoxifying dry-brush massage called Turquoise Dream. If you want to delve into your diet, staff nutritionists will test your resting metabolic rate to pinpoint the most effective nutrition and fitness plan for you or identify the foods you’re sensitive to, which is great for figuring out the culprit behind your breakouts, bloating, or decreased energy — ensuring that you walk the aisle at your healthiest and most beautiful. Doubles from $349 per night

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What is an Invitation Insert, and What Goes On It?

Your wedding invitation is more than just a pretty card in an envelope. Even the most simple of designs includes a few extra pieces (namely an RSVP card and envelope), before you start adding on things like envelope liners and bellybands. For couples having a destination wedding in particular, the sheer volume of information often requires an additional card, called an invitation insert or an information card. But what is it for? We asked our experts to spill on the details.

An information card or invitation insert is a useful way to share extra information with your wedding guests, without crowding the main invitation full of logistics. The invitation itself should list your names, your wedding date, the location, the start time, and the dress code — and that’s it. Want to share anything more? That’s where the insert comes in.

If you’re having your ceremony and reception at two different locations, your invitation will list the ceremony location and then should say “reception to follow.” The time and location of your reception sometimes get their own insert, especially if you want to include directions or parking information for the venue.

For any pre- and post-wedding events that won’t have their own invitation mailed separately, put the date, time, and dress code on an insert (i.e. “Please join us for a welcome party the night before the wedding! Meet us at the hotel bar at 8 p.m. for cocktails and desserts.”). If you’re hoping to get a specific R.S.V.P. count, you should either send an invitation in the mail or send out an e-vite.

See more: When is it Okay to Put Registry Information on Wedding Invitations?

Having a shuttle to transport guests to and from your ceremony and reception? While you may not have the exact shuttle times figured out before your invitations are sent, put a note on the insert that specifies that the shuttle will be available (or that it’s required and that they shouldn’t plan to drive to your venue).

The insert can also provide an overview of travel options, such as the name of the nearest airport and the names, websites, and phone numbers for any hotels where you’ve reserved a block of rooms. Be sure to include the reservation code if your hotel requires one!

And of course, this is the perfect place to put the URL for your wedding website. Encourage guests to check it out for even more information!

A Planner's 12 Must-Follow Rules for Throwing the Wedding of Your Dreams

Lynn Easton Wedding Planning Tips

Photo: Getty Images

Lynn Easton, the sought-after wedding planner and designer behind Easton Events, has overseen more than 250 weddings in her 25-year career. (Phew! And you thought you were tired just planning your own!) With Easton behind a big day, the wedding photos always look like something out of a magazine editorial or top-pinned item on Pinterest. Here are a few things she’s learned during her crazy career about throwing those dream-worthy weddings…

1. Determine Your Budget First
Otherwise, tears will be shed! A wedding budget determines guest count, which in turn determines venue. (So critical…)

2. Do The Mood-Board Thing
When we first meet a bride, we ask questions to sleuth out her design sensibilities, like: Who are your style icons? If you were a car, which would you be? What handbag would you carry to the Oscars? Based on the answers, we create storyboards with fabric swatches, dress designs, invitation samples, photos of places — anything that evokes her vision. Putting it on paper helps make sure all the elements work together.

3. Keep It Uniform
I always ask to see the bride’s Pinterest board to make sure her ideas match her venue. If she’s getting married in a barn but wants to do the whole wedding in a contemporary print like chevron, there may be a disconnect. Not every barn wedding has to be rustic, but the design and the setting should be cohesive.

4. Consider the Season
In spring and summer, it’s great to be less formal and more florally focused. In fall and winter, I love things more formal and objet-oriented, with rich velvet fabrics and accents like feathers and horns.

5. Try a Fresh Palette
We had a couple years of everything blush. Now our clients are open to interesting earthy colors, like blue-gray and sage green.

6. Clear The Clutter
I hate when standing speakers are visible during the ceremony. Tall speakers and mics can ruin photographs. You can hear perfectly fine when they’re on the ground.

7. Dress Up Your Tabletops
Five must-haves at every place setting: beautiful oversize napkins, layers of different-textured plates, interesting stemware and flatware — I love sterling silver or horn — eye-catching items like tiny bowls of cherries, and more candlelight than you can imagine.

8. Go for High Centerpieces
They’re back, but in a much more ethereal, deconstructed way than the tight, ball-like ones of the past. Big, loose florals add a lot more dimension to tabletops.

See More: 49 Tips For a Bride Planning Her Own Wedding

9. Don’t Rule Out Rounds
Long rectangular tables have more space to showcase complex flower arrangements, but there’s something intimate about round tables. I’m a big believer in focusing on the guest experience, and being able to talk in a circle is really delightful.

10. Slow Down for Dinner
More and more brides want to get to the dancing, so they’re cutting dinner short. It should be savored. It takes two hours to serve a first-class three-course meal.

11. Create Memorable Moments
At one wedding, we had a gospel choir come out and sing the final song of the
ceremony; at another, a fiddler and a guitarist led everyone from ceremony to reception. These experiences are what really wow your guests.

12. Get Personal
One of the sweetest things I’ve seen was when a bride and groom wrote a note to each guest and placed it inside an envelope with his or her escort card. It was sensational.

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4 'Something Borrowed' Wedding Accessories That Can Pull Double Duty

We all know the English rhyme, “Something olde, something new, something borrowed, something blue, a sixpense in your shoe…” which suggests that when brides poses these five things, they will have good luck in their marriage and on their big day. While it may seem like just another thing you have to do before you walk down the aisle, if you think of it as a multi-tasking opportunity, it’s easily achieved! Besides, its fun to participate in old traditions, and what bride doesn’t want to kill two birds with one stone (and save some money while being sentimental, too)?

Your Veil
All former brides know that they probably will never be able to “lend” their dresses to a friend or relative, but veils are a different story. Borrowing a veil (that complements your ensemble, of course) is the best way to cross off that “something borrowed” criteria and put the finishing touches on your big day look, too. Nothing makes you feel more like a bride than a veil, and a veil with meaning behind it? Perfect. (If you opt for a new veil instead, think about paying it forward for a sister, friend or family member. Just be sure that if you preserve your dress, you keep the veil out of the process.)

Your Jewelry
A new ring on your finger is a given for your wedding day, but the rest of your jewelry doesn’t have to be new. If you think about it, every experienced Mrs. has jewelry they’ve worn on their big day. Save some money and add extra special meaning to your bling choices by borrowing earrings, a bracelet, or a necklace from a special woman in your life. Chances are they will be honored you asked (many may also offer!) and it’s a great way to combine tradition with necessity.

Hair Accessories
Wearing an embellished comb, halo, headband, or pin in your hair is a popular bridal trend for a reason: The right piece can really complete your big day do, and they’re the types of items that you don’t really wear more than once (meaning many been-there-done-that brides might have their accessories laying around collecting dust). Why not borrow a special piece from a friend or relative instead of hitting the stores and scouring endless sparkly options in expensive bridal boutiques? A word to the wise: Be sure to borrow it ahead of your hair trials.

See More “Something Blue” Wedding Bouquets

Handkerchief
Some wedding day tears are nearly guaranteed. Wipe them away in style and sentiment with a borrowed handkerchief from a loved one. Nothing is classier than a quality, antique handkerchief to have handy for all of those happy wedding tears. This is also one of the easiest and most subtle ways to incorporate a “something borrowed” — especially for brides who want a look that is new and uniquely hew own. Tuck it in a bouquet or hide it away in the décolletage for when the moment strikes (and remember — no ugly crying!).

Teen Mom Star Maci Bookout is Married! See Her Wedding Day Photos

Maci Bookout Wedding

Photo: Getty Images

Maci Bookout of MTV’s Teen Mom is a single mom no more! The reality star just married her sweetheart, Taylor McKinney, in a dazzling destination wedding in Greenville, Florida, saying their “I do’s” in front of friends, family, and Maci’s three children.

After almost four years together and the birth of their first child (and Bookout’s second), McKinney and the 16 and Pregnant alum got engaged back in January, with the groom popping the question on the beach in front of MTV’s cameras. Now, after expanding their brood by one more, the pair finally tied the knot on Saturday, October 8. “I am so excited because I don’t use the word ‘fiancé’ because I think it’s kind of silly!” Bookout explained to Us Weekly. “So I’m excited to finally be able to call him my husband.”

The newlyweds married at Florida’s Honey Lake Resort in a beautiful rustic wedding, so stunning it deserves its own reality show! Before the ceremony, Bookout got ready with her gal pals in matching flannel shirts, and then, carrying a bouquet of burgundy and peach peonies, Bookout walked down the aisle of the property’s charming chapel in a unique and über-romantic Riki Dalal Haute Couture wedding dress in a soft mauve hue. There, the couple was pronounced officially wed by Bookout’s pastor grandfather after reading their own vows. “[It was] really special,” notes Bookout.

After tying the knot, the pair headed to their reception, where tables were decorated with centerpieces of babies’ breath, sunset roses, white hydrangeas and Dusty Miller, and where fellow MTV stars Catelynn Lowell and Tyler Baltierra were there to celebrate their newlywed status. Bookout and McKinney shared their first dance to John Legend’s “All of Me,” and then after hours of grooving, guests dined on a tiered arrangement of doughnuts (so trendy!) in lieu of a traditional wedding cake.

See More: 10 Things to Know Before Planning a Destination Wedding

So what’s next for these newlyweds? A honeymoon in the Caribbean, according to Bookout! “We’re going for seven nights, eight days,” said the bride. “So eight days with no children and beer and a beach, it’s going to be awesome. I’d say by day five, though, we’re probably going to be missing the kids a lot! But we’ll try to enjoy it.”

Bridesmaids goals. @macideshanebookout #showmethemoneys

A photo posted by Pretty Rebels (@pretty_rebels) on Oct 8, 2016 at 3:47pm PDT

It's about to go down !!! @macideshanebookout @tmon3yyy #weddingtime #showmethemoneys

A photo posted by Devon Pilkington (@devonpilk) on Oct 8, 2016 at 3:36pm PDT

BRIDES Florida: 4 Unique Miami Estate Venues

The Deering Estate Miami

Photo: Courtesy of The Deering Estate via Facebook

Known for their eclectic Spanish revival style and original Mediterranean designs, this list of some of Miami’s best estate venues provides brides with a unique blend of bold character and sophisticated elegance. Adding an element of intimacy amidst grand architecture, there’s no better match for a seamless Miami wedding day than some of the city’s most popular landmark estates.


The Deering Estate
(Above)

One of Florida’s most breathtaking environmental, archaeological, and historic preserves, this lush source of Miami history is a beautiful site to celebrate your big day. Elegance and tranquility encompass this picturesque home thanks to the estate’s manicured lawns and stunning view of the adjacent Biscayne Bay. The added flexibility of bringing in your own team of wedding specialists makes personalizing your big day that much easier. Read real brides’ reviews here!

The Cooper Estate Homestead

Photo: Courtesy of The Cooper Estate

The Cooper Estate
Known as one of South Miami’s most refined and elegant properties, this spacious premiere wedding venue has become an expert in marrying sophistication with some of Florida’s most prominent couples. Resting on three acres of manicured lawns, the naturally ornate landscape comes complete with waterfalls, rare palms, mature oaks, and open skies for a stunning moonlight view. The site’s bold old-world ambiance offers guests a unique look into the past thanks to the rustic versatility of the interior’s formal atmosphere. This stunning Miami location is essential for any bride looking for a rustic escape filled with elegance. Read real brides’ reviews here!

See More:
Check Out These Local Cakeries to Find Your Dream Wedding Cake

Thalatta Estate

Photo: Courtesy of Thalatta Estate via Facebook

Thalatta Estate
Listed as South Florida’s stunning 1925 revival of Mediterranean design, this timeless setting is a tranquil getaway nestled in the Village of Palmetto Bay. Doubling as a natural conservation area, this South Dade historic landmark provides couples with the unique duality of both past and present. Whether your ceremony dreams are for an outdoor celebration on the Spanish-style terrace or you’re committed to the flourishing outdoor garden, the backdrops are endless when booking this one-of-a-kind Miami venue. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Villa Woodbine

Photo: Courtesy of Villa Woodbine


Villa Woodbine

For any Miami bride looking to tie the knot in a true Mediterranean-style open-air locale, look no further than Villa Woodbine. Designed by architect Walter De Garmo, the layout of this eclectic estate boasts central courtyards and elegant architectural features commemorating antique Spanish style. Known as a popular destination for local Miami brides, the balance of unique décor and unmatched Florida history is the perfect ceremony spot for any bride looking for a touch of added legacy. Read real brides’ reviews here!

Looking for a different type of venue? Check out other locales and find your perfect fit on our Miami Venues page!

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We're Not Having a First Look. What Do We Need to Know?

While first looks are becoming more and more popular as both an opportunity to have a few quiet moments together before the celebrations begin and to get some extra pictures done before the ceremony, it isn’t for everyone. Some couples still choose to stick to tradition, spending the night before the wedding apart and seeing one another for the first time as they reach the altar. If you fall into the latter camp and are skipping your first look, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Our experts are here to break it down for you!

If you’re not having a first look, the biggest thing to be aware of is your timeline. Sure, you can do pictures with your bridesmaids and immediate family before you walk down the aisle, but you’ll need to include extra time post-ceremony for things like your couple portraits, photos of the entire wedding party, and pictures of your families with the two of you. When you’re making your must-have photo list with your photographer, work with him or her to break down what you’ll be able to get beforehand and what you’ll have to save until after your “I dos.” Depending on how long your list is, you may want to discuss having your photographer bring a second-shooter to help get as many pre-ceremony pictures done as possible so you’re not left missing all of cocktail hour.

See More: The Pros and Cons of Having a First Look

Your timeline should also include specifics to help keep the two of you apart before the ceremony. If you’re staying at the same hotel, schedule your walks or drives to the ceremony venue to happen 10-15 minutes apart, so you can get through the lobby (and into your ceremony venue!) without bumping into one another. Make sure there is a room you can head to where you’ll be out of sight — most houses of worship have a bridal suite or meeting room that’s designated for the bride, where she can tuck away with her ‘maids until all the guests are seated.

Do you want to save the “look” for the aisle, but still wish you could have a moment together before you exchange vows? There are a few alternative ideas that make for sweet pictures without ruining the surprise. One is to stand on either side of a doorway or around a corner and hold hands. You can exchange notes, talk to one another, say a prayer, or do whatever will help calm your nerves. Another option is to have your groom positioned somewhere with a blindfold on, then have the bride walk out and stand back-to-back with him. You’ll be able to touch and speak to one another, but your dress will still be a big surprise!

This Couple's Charleston Wedding Was Dripping with Southern Charm

Looking for some great new ideas for your wedding? Then look no further than our real weddings video channel, packed with tons beautiful celebrations and countless ideas to steal for your own big day. Each week we take a deeper look at one of our favorite new love stories, and today’s inspiration comes courtesy of Jordyn and Michael’s Charleston celebration, which was absolutely packed with southern charm.

Dock House Digital joined the pair and their guests at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and captured every sweet moment of the couple’s beautiful South Carolina wedding. The bride and groom’s outdoor ceremony embodied the essence of this beautiful city, where guests wandered beneath trees covered with hanging Spanish moss and took in the property’s breathtaking landscaping and views.

See More: 25 Ways to Decorate Your Wedding with Pumpkins

Jordyn and Michael exchanged touching vows beneath a birch wood chuppah. There, guests watched the pair become husband and wife with views of a lake in their backdrop. In keeping with Jewish tradition, the pair displayed their ornate ketubah for everyone to see.

Their reception was just as sweet, with guests sitting at long tables beneath a vaulted ceiling before moving into a clear-topped tent for dancing beneath café lights. And a special guest made sure everyone was out of their seats — Cocky, the mascot for the University of South Carolina, made an appearance to help get the party started.

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Husband Pens Heartbreaking Letter to Hospital Staff Who Cared for His Dying Wife

After losing his beloved wife, Laura Levis, to a serious asthma attack, Peter DeMarco wrote a letter to every single staff member at CHA Cambridge Hospital that cared for his wife, her family, and himself during this tragic and devastating time.

The letter, published by The New York Times, addressed the doctors, nurses, respiratory specialists, social workers, and cleaning staff workers that were involved in the care for Levis, and it is so beautifully written it will both break your heart and make you happy that love as true as Levis and DeMarco’s exists.

DeMarco, a writer from Boston, wrote that he knows everyone who cared for his wife by name, and that he felt he would not have been able to get through this tough time without them.

“Every single one of you treated Laura with such professionalism, and kindness, and dignity as she lay unconscious. When she needed shots, you apologized that it was going to hurt a little, whether or not she could hear. When you listened to her heart and lungs through your stethoscopes, and her gown began to slip, you pulled it up to respectfully cover her. You spread a blanket, not only when her body temperature needed regulating, but also when the room was just a little cold, and you thought she’d sleep more comfortably that way,” he wrote.

He went on to talk about how the staff helped Levis’ parents feel comfortable in the uncomfortable hospital room, and made sure that they felt involved in the treatment process. The staff even allowed him to sneak in the couple’s cat, Cola, into the room to give Levis’ face one last lick. During her last night on earth, the staff let DeMarco bring more that 50 of Levis’ closest friends, family, and co-workers into her room for a night of guitar playing, opera singing, and dancing, something that DeMarco says was the “last great night of our marriage together, for both of us, and it wouldn’t have happened without your support.”

The most touching part of the letter is when he talks about his last moments with Levis, after a day of people coming in and our of her room to say goodbye. DeMarco had asked two staff members, Donna and Jen, to help him set up the recliner close to Levis’ bed so that he can be close to her while he slept, and they did something even better.

“They asked me to leave the room for a moment, and when I returned, they had shifted Laura to the right side of her bed, leaving just enough room for me to crawl in with her one last time. I asked if they could give us one hour without a single interruption, and they nodded, closing the curtains and the doors, and shutting off the lights.”

What followed was their last tender moment together as husband and wife, something DeMarco says he will cherish forever.

“I will remember that last hour together for the rest of my life. It was a gift beyond gifts, and I have Donna and Jen to thank for it. Really, I have all of you to thank for it.”

See More: This Bride Shut DOWN the Haters with Breastfeeding Wedding Photo