How did COVID affect your wedding?
We were really worried and stressed at first when we realized we may not be able to have our wedding on our day. But when reflecting on it, I think we can say that COVID affected our wedding only positively. It certainly came with it’s challenges but we are so glad we went ahead with it and got married on our day. Although we had to reduce our headcount, most guests were completely understanding and were so happy for us. Strangely, COVID made the day feel even more emotional, special and unique and we honestly feel that it wouldn’t have been that way otherwise. We all got together and made the absolute best of every minute. We felt so connected and close with everyone there. It’s honestly something we will never forget and if we had to do it all over again, we would in a heartbeat.
How was wedding planning?
The planning was honestly smooth the entire time. We wouldn’t have been able to do it without the help of Morgan of JRE, our wedding planner. The worst moment was probably when COVID hit, although a challenging obstacle was thrown in our way, that feeling was fleeting. Somehow God turned it into something positive and for good.
Was there anything in particular you wanted?
I am a very detail oriented person, so I expected my wedding to have the finest details and I envisioned a magical romantic rustic, boho wedding with a modern twist. I knew I wanted my wedding to look different than your average wedding and I wanted to incorporate details and colors most brides are afraid to incorporate. Like the color black and leather! I really felt like that added a modern/edgy feel to the wedding.
How would you describe the ceremony?
The ceremony was beautiful, emotional and you really could feel God’s presence all around us. As the sun peaked through the large oak tree, it created such a beautiful and ethereal feel, like God was smiling down at us. When I walked down the aisle, our eyes locked, and it was like no one else was around us but us and God. Our pastor officiated our wedding, and he opened up with a prayer. I felt us all rejoicing and giving thanks to the day. We just felt present and that nothing else mattered in the world but this very moment.
Any memorable moments?
Our DJ went above and beyond and played a pre-recorded toast from my brother. I haven’t seen him in years and he was the one person I wanted there the most but was unable to be there. Just at the sound of his name, I broke into tears. All of our guests teared up. There was not a dry eye in sight! We also played the wedding shoe game and that was so fun.
What was your favorite detail from the day?
My favorite detail from the wedding day was the Shimmer & Stain pieces, our dinner set up with the black, terracotta and leather details, and of course the pampas grass everywhere!
What was the best part of the day?
Sarah: Choosing the best part of my day is so hard because the WHOLE day was my favorite part. But if I had to choose, the best part of my day was when I walked down the aisle and my eyes locked onto my husband’s. My heart was racing and the butterflies in my stomach were bouncing off the walls! I actually had my dad walk me down the aisle in his wheelchair. I didn’t think that moment was possible but it happened! The sun peaking through leaves of the oak tree was perfect, and it was like the whole world stopped and it was just me and my husband in the presence of the Lord.
Andraas: The best part of the wedding day for me was the exchanging of our vows. I cherished that moment when my bride and I were staring into each other’s eyes as we held hands at the end of the altar right before we exchanged the vows we wrote ourselves. I remember every detail and all of the emotions that came with it in that moment. It still gives me chills whenever I think or talk about that moment.
