Memphis, TN with My Sister Friends

So, after a week of recovery and rest from our NE adventure, it was on the road again. Last Friday we boarded a big bird in the sky and were Memphis bound to celebrate two of our dearest friends' weddings. It was a whirlwind of a trip-considering that we were there for less than 36 hours. However, we enjoyed every second of getting to catch up with friends and eating some good Memphis BBQ in the process.

Friday evening, we went for a drink at Local Gastropub and then for a dance or two at Paula & Raiford's Disco. Disco is an appropriate name for the nightclub, especially considering the light up blocked disco floor that looks straight out of Saturday Night Fever. Raiford himself was there, spinning tunes while overlooking the dance floor. It was definitely an experience to say the least and one that I will always remember.

The next day, we woke up bright and early in order to see some of Memphis' finest. We started by eating breakfast at one of my most missed Southern establishments, Chik-fil-a. Then, we sprinted over to the Peabody Hotel to catch the parade of ducks. The tradition started years ago and is now an internationally acclaimed performance that happens twice daily. I had been before, but it had been 15+ years ago (yikes!). The show was rather short considering the ducks move at record speed, but it was fun to watch with the company of friends.

Then, we swung by the Gibson factory. We had originally intended to go on a tour of the factory, but were too late to the catch and ended up just taking a peep into the extensive showroom. Sun Records was next on the list. The name may sound familiar and it's probably because some of the most iconic American music was cranked out of the small Memphis establishment. Music legends including Johnny Cash and Elvis Presley made some of their greatest hits there. So, of course- we couldn't help but strike an appropriate pose in front of it.

As lunch time grew closer, we became overwhelmed with all of the good options for BBQ. I mean, if you're going to have a problem- that's a good one to have. We ended up choosing the Bar-B-Q Shop and were happy we did. John and I shared a big plate of ribs, baked beans, coleslaw and every Southerner's favorite side dish- bread to dip into BBQ sauce.

Next up was quite possibly the most famous Memphis landmark, Graceland. The former mansion of Elvis Presley ranks as the second most visited private residence in the U.S., only behind the White House. Tickets were pretty $$ and time was limited. So, shamelessly we posed for a photo op in front of the gates.

That evening, it was time for the big show- Lauren and Lee's wedding. The ceremony and the reception were picture perfect and Lauren looked right out of a magazine. I have always adored weddings, but even more so now since it means that I get to see all of my friends at the same time and in the same place.

As I said, it was a whirlwind of a weekend but a great one indeed. Cheers to the happy couple and cheers to wonderful memories made with wonderful people!