Flashbulbs Popping

In 1956, my best friend had decided to quit business school and get married. She called me at college where I was a sophomore to tell me the good news. It was September. The wedding would occur during Christmas break in our hometown of Mamaroneck, N.Y. “Would I be her maid of honor?” she asked.

I was delighted until I learned of the huge wedding she’d planned with at least 500 people attending. My phobia of crowds kicked in. I thought, Oh no! I’ll