The date was set. The venue was scheduled and the wedding dress was ready. We were only several weeks out from the wedding when I called Becca to check in on their wedding plans. News of a virus had been circulating but it hadn’t seemed like a big deal. But all of a sudden, businesses were closed, people ordered to stay at home, and groups were limited to very small numbers.

When I called Becca, she let me know that they had canceled their venue and were planning a small, intimate wedding ceremony with only close family and friends. I was sure she must have been broken hearted to be forced to give up her dream wedding day but I was in for a surprise. While she didn’t try to make it sound easy, Becca was so gracious and accepting of the change. After getting off our call, I was reminded once again of the amazing brides I get to work with; kind, gracious, and joyful even in the midst of hard times. They are lovers of beauty, but even more, they believe that the most important part of their wedding day is the commitment they’re making to the one they love.

Becca and Mervin got married in a small corner of the church sanctuary, surrounded by their immediate family and several close friends. After emotional, heartfelt vows, they took communion together and washed each other’s feet as a symbol of their union and love for each other. Back at the home of the bride, their banquet venue had been set for a celebration dinner complete with grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, and fresh strawberry pie cooked by Becca’s aunts.

Becca and Mervin, thank you so much for sharing your day with us! It was a beautiful day; made more so by the way you chose to embrace the change of plans and your belief that love triumphs over all. I love your laid back approach to life paired with your adventurous spirit and can’t wait to see how you do life together! 🙂