Partying with the Newlyweds

Sep 12

Sunday

Post a Comment September 12, 2010 – 2:34 pm | Permalink |

Newlyweds Joshua Silberstein and Liz Downey

Here’s the scene of a true Shambhala wedding celebration: streamers framing a backyard with purple and yellow; irises pouring from vases; more sake, wine, beer, vodka, and champagne than can possibly be consumed; and herds of children running around with their bows and arrows. With multiple new dads cradling babies in one arm, beers in the other and mothers wiping ketchup off rounded cheeks — all generations were present to toast this adorably in-love couple.

: Newlyweds Joshua Silberstein and Liz Downey

This was the atmosphere when, on August 8th, sangha from far and wide gathered in Sal and Ulrike Halpern’s Boulder backyard to rejoice with Joshua Silberstein (the enigmatically gentle Chief of Staff for Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche) and Liz Downey (who crisply served as the Sakyong Wangmo’s first Shambhala attendant).

A scene-by-scene slide show flashed moving images from their Karme Choling wedding in the living room, touching partygoers from the get-go. With easy conversation, great toasts, and a flaming barbecue that produced endless late-summer fare, everyone seemed to relax into the warmth that always seems to emanate from the guests of honor.

Photos by Chase Bauer.