Jennifer + Jorge | Milk, Cookies, and Simplicity

A bilingual micro-wedding rooted in the love and closeness of family.

Jorge and I had a smaller, but oh so beautiful, wedding. We didn’t want to put on a show or try to outdo other weddings we had been to. The Holy Family Chapel at St. Peter, Prince of Apostles in Lemoore, was perfect for us. Amid the uncertainty of Covid, we chose to invite only immediate family and grandparents, yet it was such special time for us, focused on the meaning of holy matrimony. 

A friend from church willingly offered her services to photograph different points of our wedding. We are grateful for all the beautiful photos she took for us.

As simple as the wedding was, I still felt beautiful: my white dress, my mother’s veil, my curls, and the cascading bouquet of white roses. I wore the same wreath in my hair that I’d worn for my First Holy Communion!

For our processional, Jorge suggested the idea of him and me meeting at the back of the chapel with our parents, and having the sendoff there. After that First Look, we could walk down the aisle together--that is exactly what we did.

Jorge chose his grandfather’s wedding ring for himself, which he had inherited a few years prior. 

The two of us had both learned of the old European custom of saying our vows over a crucifix. I had received one from a dear friend, and it seemed like the perfect size to use during our vows; it now hangs in our bedroom. 

Because there was no wedding party to lead our entrance down the aisle, different family members were given assignments, from bringing forth the rings, carrying the crucifix, or assembling the flowers to Our Lady. For our Marian dedication during the Mass, we sung the Salve Regina--as Jorge and I had done together daily, for the past year. 

Our reception consisted of a light luncheon. Some other good friends from church catered and decorated the back patio of my parents’ house, which is out in the country. It was the perfect spot for us to cherish the meaning of family.

Jorge comes from a Mexican background, though my family knows little Spanish. So, before we all went through the buffet line, Jorge led us in prayer in English, Spanish, and then the two of us also chanted in Latin, as we typically do before meals.

Our theme for the reception was Milk and Cookies. With a little backstory, we included mugs I had given Jorge for his birthday earlier on in our relationship. With a comical illustration, they read, We go together like milk and cookies! They always brought a smile to our faces, and it really does feel so true! So, in place of a wedding cake, we fed each other large chocolate chip cookies that Jorge’s sister had made for us! 

With these simple but meaningful arrangements, it made our preparations so free from stress. I am grateful to God that it came out so wonderfully, with a day focused on the sacred.

Nuptial Mass Location: Holy Family Chapel at St. Peter, Prince of Apostles, Lemoore, California | Photography: Nancy Silva, friend of the couple

Trusting in God's Providence | COVID Wedding Roundup

Entering the sacrament of marriage regularly requires spouses-to-be to surrender to God’s will in a profound way, but couples getting married in the midst of the 2020 pandemic were invited to lean even more heavily on God’s providence. 

Closed Churches, capacity restrictions, lockdowns, and constantly evolving health and safety guidelines turned the carefully made wedding plans of countless brides and grooms upside down.

Faced with more planning challenges than ever before, couples responded by moving up their wedding dates, postponing or rescheduling their nuptials, making their original schedule work with noticeable adjustments, or celebrating their ceremony and large reception on separate occasions.

In each instance, couples had to discern God’s will for the unique and unconventional circumstances of their entrance into holy matrimony. Their faith in God’s plan and in one another was constantly put to the test.  

Not only did God provide in each situation, but many couples were surprised to find that despite the cancelled plans and seemingly dashed wedding-day dreams, their nuptials were actually better than anything they could have orchestrated themselves.

When their original vision was no longer a possibility, Catholic brides and grooms were forced to refocus on what was essential—the sacrament that would usher them into the one-flesh union as man and wife.

Related | Surprised by Smallness: The Hidden Blessings Found in Intimate Pandemic Weddings

Brooke + Scott | Whirlwind Pandemic Wedding

When COVID-19 shuttered churches and threatened to delay the sacraments indefinitely, Brooke and Scott made the bold decision to get married almost a month early, with only hours notice, in the presence of only their immediate family members; but later that summer, they finally got their fairytale celebration.

Photography: I'm Mary Katherine, LLC as seen in Brooke + Scott’s Whirlwind Pandemic Wedding

Alexandra + Aidan | Baltimore Basilica Pandemic Wedding

From the divine grandeur of the Baltimore Basilica to the intimate, candlelit reception in the bride’s family home, this Maryland wedding exuded the supernatural beauty and joy of the sacrament, despite pandemic conditions. But after much prayer, patience, perseverance, and creative compromises, their intimate celebration remained “a day that will never be forgotten.”

Photography: M Harris Studios as seen in Alexandra + Aidan’s Baltimore Basilica Pandemic Wedding

Tara + Sean | Elegant Extended-Celebration Wedding

While wedding planning during a pandemic brought countless challenges, Tara and Sean were determined to be married on the date they originally set, May 16. These college sweethearts chose to celebrate their marriage on two distinct days, allowing them to fully focus on the different aspects of the celebration. After five years of dating and an 18-month engagement, God provided for them to be joined as husband and wife in the presence of their closest family members and bridal party.

Photography: Catherine Rhodes Photography as seen in Tara + Sean’s Elegant Extended-Celebration Wedding

Ashley + Andy | Birmingham Cathedral Pandemic Wedding

An intimate Mass celebrated in the halls of the magnificent St. Paul’s Cathedral in Birmingham, Alabama. Adorned with roses and blush elegance, a backyard reception became a beautiful celebration of the sacrament of marriage. Despite new social restrictions, their nuptial Mass held within the walls of their beloved cathedral felt anything but empty and isolating. As Ashley’s brother reminded her minutes before the ceremony, “the angels and saints are filling the rows.”

Photography: Olivia Joy Photography as seen in Ashley + Andy’s Birmingham Cathedral Pandemic Wedding

Gretchen + Peter | Autumn In Baltimore

A TLM celebration dusted with gold and Shire-inspired charm, illuminating the Lord’s providence amid the challenges of COVID-19 and military commitments. Gretchen and Peter decided to reduce their guest list of 250 to only 50 family and friends and to move their wedding day up by 5 weeks—a decision that would prove to be incredibly providential.

Photography: Emily Karcher Photography, LLC & Katherine Elizabeth Photography as seen in Gretchen + Peter’s Autumn In Baltimore Wedding

We’d love to feature your wedding or engagement and learn how God’s providence has worked in your love story! Spoken Bride is now accepting submissions. Share your story with our community!

Evelyn + John Paul | Downtown Mountain Wedding

A nuptial Mass saturated with profound symbolism in the center of Denver, followed by a mountain reception surrounded by the incomparable beauty of God’s creation.

Evelyn and John Paul wanted every detail of their Colorado wedding day to draw them more deeply into the truth and reality of the marriage covenant.

Each of their selections, from colors to flowers, was made with intentionality. 

In their wedding program they shared the meaning of each symbol with their wedding guests, providing an authentic witness to the nature and beauty of the sacrament of holy matrimony. 

From the Bride and Groom:

Like every other Catholic sacrament, weddings serve to make visible an invisible reality. In the sacrament of marriage, the invisible covenantal union of the couple is made visible though observable actions and signs. 

Thus, every detail of our wedding day was planned with intentionality to reflect this reality. 

First, the Church. We wanted to get married in a place that reflected the beauty and grandeur of the sacrament of marriage. 

Next, the wedding attire. John Paul and our bridal party were dressed in black, whereas Evelyn and the priest were dressed in white. 

The black reminds us that marriage is a death to self, while white—the color of Easter time—speaks of the resurrection of our new life together as one. 

The flowers Evelyn carried were white roses and white lilies. These are the flowers associated with Mary (who is often called the Mystical Rose) and St. Joseph. We hope to model our new family after the Holy Family. 

Among the white flowers were lots of greenery. Green is the liturgical color for ordinary time. Although on our wedding day we feasted, most of our married days will be very ordinary, and the green reminds us that even in those times we still remain faithful to Christ. 

On the altar we were surrounded by six bridesmaids and six groomsmen. Together they equal 12, the same number as the tribes of Israel, the apostles, and the number of diamonds in Evelyn’s engagement ring. 

The number 12 in scripture symbolizes a covenant, just like the covenant we entered into on our wedding day. 

Our wedding bands of gold called to mind the gold the Magi brought to Christ and reminded us that we too are a precious gift to Christ. 

After our nuptial Mass, we went into the mountains, just like Christ did so often when He wanted to hear the voice of the Father. The beauty of creation draws the mind and heart to God, and we think that nowhere is that more evident than in the beauty of the mountains. 

Above all, each detail of our wedding day—from the Church, to the music played, to the centerpieces at the reception—was chosen specifically to reflect the beauty and majesty, permeance and fruitfulness, faithfulness and totality of the gift of holy matrimony.

From the Photographer:

Evelyn and John Paul were united in a gorgeous, reverent nuptial Mass with transcendent music. The couple included the Hispanic tradition of the exchange of arras. 

They prayed to the Blessed Virgin Mary after their vows and had a grand send-off with all their guests upon exiting the church.

As a photographer, I experience a lot of different weddings throughout the year. This was one of the most beautiful Catholic weddings I have ever seen. 

Evelyn and John Paul were incredibly intentional with every aspect of their wedding, from the flowers to the music to the fabric of their clothes. 

You could tell that they had really prepared their minds, hearts, and souls to join together as one under Christ. It was a gift to work with them to capture their wedding day.

Photography: Madeira Creative Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Denver, CO | Reception Venue & Catering: Mount Vernon Country Club, Golden, CO | Floral Design: Mae Flowers | Videography: Andrew Nease Video | Bridal Boutique: Dani West Bridal | Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank | DJ: Mobile Beatz of Colorado

Hannah + Josh | Prayer-Filled Fall Wedding

A celebration characterized by a spirit of prayer against a backdrop of late November foliage, a grand sanctuary, and an unrivaled sunset. Earthy, red-orange tones, soft blush accents, and simple white roses comprise an elegantly understated fall wedding.

As Hannah and Josh went about planning their wedding during a pandemic, there were more than a few hiccups. 

Yet they stayed steadfast in knowing that God would come through for them, as they continued to pray for peace. 

This depth and consistency in prayer lasted from the start of their engagement, until the end of their reception, and into their life as husband and wife. 

Despite all obstacles, Hannah and Josh never lost sight of what their wedding day was about; what life is about.

From the Photographer: 

Hannah and Josh are a beautiful and inspiring couple. Their holiness is evident in the way that they present themselves, in the way that they talk to you, and in the way that they look at each other. 

You can just tell when someone is totally in line with God's will; you can almost feel that in their presence. 

There were three specific prayerful instances on their wedding day that totally took my heart and reminded me that setting time aside to pray is not just important, but an absolute necessity—and the best way to draw others into Jesus' Most Sacred Heart!

The morning of their wedding, when I arrived at the house where the girls were getting ready, I spoke with Hannah and hugged her. She seemed totally calm and deeply joyful. 

I took some of her detail items, including her lovely gown, to the backyard to start taking some photos. When I came back in to look for an item that I had forgotten, I asked the bridesmaids where Hannah was. 

They quietly pointed to a closed bedroom door. Hannah was joyfully and dutifully praying in a room by herself. 

From the moment I witnessed this intentional time of prayer in the morning, I knew that Hannah and Josh's day would be even more reverent and perfect than I had imagined.

After Hannah had gotten fully ready, with a flower crown sweetly perched on her tight curls, I headed to the church to find the men. 

I walked inside the giant, gorgeous Saint Stanislaus doors and within minutes, all of Josh's family and friends had formed a circle around him with hands on his shoulders and even more hands raised in charismatic prayer. 

For several minutes, Josh‘s family, groomsmen, and friends took turns praying aloud for him and Hannah and their glorious wedding day to be dedicated to Christ.

The nuptial Mass was truly grand. The sheer size of St. Stanislaus and its arches, pillars, and windows made a space of deep reverence and silence. 

As Hannah walked down the aisle, Josh's smile was wide and his eyes were teary. As they met, the genuine love that they have for each other was felt by everyone present. 

Music for the Mass was led by a close friend and his acoustic guitar, sweetly singing hymns that directed us to Jesus on the crucifix, even amidst a wedding. 

The long walk to venerate Mary after receiving the Eucharist together was as beautiful as you could imagine. Hannah's train lingered behind her as she knelt and Josh put a bouquet into a vase at Our Lady of Guadalupe's feet.

After the ceremony, we visited an orchard that was unnaturally orange and truly one of the most beautiful autumn sights I've ever seen.

The peace of having been married swept over Hannah and Josh's faces as they held hands and walked beneath the orange boughs. 

Their peaceful stroll was interrupted when Hannah was stung by a bee, which she bravely walked off (and luckily wasn't allergic to!). Her elegance after that was astounding, and she seemed unaffected after a few minutes of cringey pain and irritation. 

We then went across the street to a field with a truly phenomenal sunset overhead, showing off yellow and pink streaks over the entire sky.

We then gathered at a family friend's property for the reception. We made our way to the tent, with lights strung all over the place and bottles of wine placed on each table. 

The dads of both bride and groom went up to the microphone to give an introduction to everyone and thank them for their presence. They then asked their guests to raise a hand to pray over the newly married couple. 

Everyone bowed their heads, smiling with closed eyes, and prayed for Hannah and Josh again before we all lined up for tacos, churros, and horchata.

As a party favor for each guest, a Miraculous Medal was pinned alongside a prayer. The night was filled with amazing food, dancing for hours, and close friends enjoying time together under the starlit tent.

This was a day more full of prayer than most I’ve seen, and not just by one or two people, but by everyone in attendance. And not just prayer, but deep, joyful, faithful, evangelistic prayer.

Prayer as a couple and at a wedding cannot be overdone. Similarly, God cannot be outdone in generosity. 

Any couple planning a pandemic wedding should have a heart ready to go with the flow of life and its changes, and trust in the Lord's timing.

The happiest couples I've seen this year haven't been the ones whose weddings were unscathed by the inconsistencies, cancellations, and troubles of COVID-19. 

The happiest brides and grooms were the ones who looked up, even in the midst of a rocky experience planning their big days, and still held on to the joy of knowing that they were about to be united with the love of their life until “death do they part.”

Photography: Nikayla & Co. | Nuptial Mass Location: St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, Modesto, CA | Bride’s Dress and Veil: LaceMarry | Bridal Accessories: LaceMarry | Tuxes: Generation Tux

Brooke + Scott | Whirlwind Pandemic Wedding

When COVID-19 shuttered churches and threatened to delay the sacraments indefinitely, Brooke and Scott made the bold decision to get married almost a month early, with only hours notice, in the presence of only their immediate family members; but later that summer, they finally got their fairytale celebration.

Brooke met Scott on move-in day of her freshman year of college. Scott was a sophomore, and happened to be her RA. The two became fast friends.

A little over a year later—when they were no longer resident and RA—Brooke learned of Scott’s feelings for her after a weekend retreat with a Christian group on campus, and they began dating.

Over the years Brooke and Scott grew in their relationship together and in their individual relationships with Lord.

But when Scott experienced a reversion to the Catholic Church after graduating, Brooke was left feeling confused by a faith they no longer fully shared.

From the Bride:

While greatly troubled and conflicted by Scott’s return to the Catholic faith, I was so inspired by his reverence for the Lord. 

After fervent study of the Scriptures (as well as a vast variety of other writings and resources), mentorship from the priest who would later married us (plus a late-night ice cream trip with a professor and a great conversation with a seminarian), and lots of prayer, I made the decision to leave my Protestant background and join the Catholic Church. 

Before formally sharing this decision with Scott, but after recognizing it within myself, I felt something click between the two of us one day. It changed our relationship and our dispositions toward one another from that point forward and began to mold us into the model set by Christ and His Church.

Just before Christmas that year, Scott and I became engaged in our favorite spot—a string-lit gazebo in Baker Park in Downtown Frederick, following a horse-drawn carriage ride. Then, I was officially welcomed into the Church shortly before Easter. 

We continued to make our home at St. John Westminster, continuing to grow in our love for the Lord and His Church. We had a long engagement due to the processes required for me to complete my Master’s Degree program, acquire my license in occupational therapy, and start a job. 

Scott’s patron saint, St. Thomas More, was helpful to him during this time, inspiring Scott to work hard both at his profession as well as in his preparation to become a loving and devoted husband, centering his work, family, and entire life around his faith. 

Meanwhile my patron saint, St. Monica, inspired me as a patron saint of wives and mothers. She also inspired me to pray fervently for my loved ones and to never give up hope, clinging to my faith in God amidst life’s trials and tribulations.

Leading up to our wedding day of April 25th, from early March onward, there were new COVID restrictions every week. One day the bishop cancelled public Masses indefinitely, with churches open only for private prayer. 

On March 30th, we began texting with our priest to check in about our wedding plans. As I was leaving work, Fr. Andrew informed us that the Diocese of Baltimore had just announced it would be suspending everything beginning at 8:00 p.m. 

We began asking if we could have a private wedding that evening; meanwhile, Fr. Andrew was hearing confessions. By God’s providence, Scott had unknowingly gotten our civil license 48 hours before the courts closed indefinitely. 

Within a span of 30 minutes, we went from learning that churches would be closed to Fr. Andrew informing us, “We need two witnesses, can you bring two?”

We had to make sure we were at the church by 7:00, as it would have to close by 8:00. I had two hours to drive home where I was living with my parents and get ready.

I got dressed in what was supposed to be my rehearsal attire, put on my wedding shoes and jewelry, clipped up my hair, and painted a clear coat of nail polish over my otherwise-unpolished fingernails. 

Scott wore a plain black suit and a tie that one of our readers was supposed to wear in April. I held a bouquet of faux white flowers which were to be a part of the April decor, but cut off one single white rose to be used as Scott’s boutonniere.

We planned to get married in the chapel, but by God’s providence, a staff member unlocked the church, which had already been empty for weeks. Our videographer was able to get there quickly to capture the ceremony. 

My brother live-streamed the wedding on Facebook for friends and family, while Scott and I were married by Fr. Andrew in the presence of each of our parents, our brothers, and a seminarian. 

Our wedding occurred during Lent, with the church decorated with the humble decor of the season—an outward sign of the inner dispositions of our hearts at the time. Fr. Andrew read our previously selected readings and delivered a short homily. 

My father-in-law even held his phone up to the microphone on the ambo to play the processional and recessional songs we had previously chosen.

One reading in particular, a passage from Ephesians 5, was especially important to us. Scott and I had become deeply drawn to this passage during our engagement, and it has served as the crux of our marriage. 

Scott is the spiritual leader of our household, and I strive to submit to and honor him daily. However, all the more, Scott is a constant example of Christ’s sacrifice and servitude, laying himself down for me in big and small ways every single day.

Despite over a year of wedding planning, there was something so honest and humbling about walking down the aisle with my dad to an acoustic version of “Be Thou My Vision” without all the glamour, without having even rehearsed it; about wearing simple clothes amidst simple decorations; about being one of 10 people in a great, big, empty church filled with dried reeds and twigs; about leaving the church that evening and not knowing when we would be able to return inside. 

There was something so special about driving back to my parents’ house, receiving a small grocery-store bouquet of flowers, sharing chocolate cake from my in-laws, drinking ordinary red wine from champagne glasses my parents had kept from their own wedding, and then celebrating—just the eight of us—over oven pizza, strawberries, and carrot sticks. 

There was something so exciting about throwing clothes and essentials into a plastic bin so that I could move into the little townhouse with my now-husband that very night, only to go back into work at 7:00 the next morning, a married woman.

In August we were able to gather with family and friends for a renewal of vows and full reception. Due to continued COVID restrictions, we were unable to have our reception at our original location; however, by God’s providence, we instead celebrated at a golf course with miles of green grass, a big gazebo for our guests to enjoy cocktail hour, and a beautiful room with bright windows and a perfect dance floor. 

Scott and I are very traditional, and we incorporated all the classic details of a wedding. We’re also old souls, which was reflected from the entrance and closing hymns during the ceremony to the selection of old music at our reception. (And, of course, Nat King Cole for our first dance.) 

I wanted to feel like Cinderella, and I wore a big white dress and my hair in a twirly updo, and we had a big, white, swirly, three-tiered cake. Our reception was filled with white lanterns, emerald green ivy, white tulle, wooden accents, and string-lit trees. 

We finally got the celebration we hadn’t gotten in March, from walking down an aisle filled with loved ones on either side, to the special father-daughter and mother-son dances we had always dreamed about, and everything in between.

We are blessed, and we are humbled.

My biggest spiritual take-away from our wedding experience is that God is providential and His timing is not our timing; His plans are not our plans. 

As Isaiah writes, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways—oracle of the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, my thoughts higher than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9). 

As Scott likes to say, “God writes straight with crooked lines.” 

I spent so long trying to plan every detail of the day, and spent so much time feeling worried and tearful, fearing that Scott and I would not be able to be married for an indefinite period of time, after what was already a long engagement and dating relationship. However, the Lord provides and He takes care of us. 

Photography: I'm Mary Katherine, LLC | Nuptial Mass & Vow Renewal Location: St. John Roman Catholic Church, Westminster, MD | Reception Venue: Piney Branch Golf Club, Upperco, MD | Coordination: Stephanie Day | DJ: Digital Sounds Baltimore | Floral Design: Wendy Carol | Videography: Emmaus Films | Cake: Graul’s Market | Bridal Boutique: Cameo Bridal | Bride’s Dress: Stella York | Bridesmaid Dresses: Morilee | Groomsmen Attire: Tuxedo House

Jenna + Paul | Intimate Autumnal Wedding

A simple and intimate fall celebration allows the beauty of the sacrament to shine through, despite the unique challenges of a pandemic wedding.

When Jenna met Paul shortly after downloading a dating app, she never dreamed of actually being “matched” with her future husband.

After finding each other in an unlikely place, Jenna and Paul also learned that their wedding day would be accompanied by some unlikely circumstances.

Yet through it all, God was faithful, and they could feel the Holy Spirit anointing their union.

From the Bride:

Paul and I met on a secular dating app. I had just downloaded it when I matched with Paul, whereas he had been on it for years! 

I was just looking to put myself out there, never expecting to meet my soulmate and someone who shared a love for the Lord so deeply, as I did. Paul's bio in the app said, "looking for someone who shares my faith,"—which was exactly what I was looking for! 

Paul and I started dating in March, and he proposed at a Marian grotto in June of the following year. 

Read: Jenna and Paul’s Engagement Story

Paul and I love going to Mass together, singing praise and worship, praying together, and just sharing what the Lord is doing in our hearts. 

He is a total extrovert who loves dancing around the kitchen, singing through the house at 7:00 a.m., and being with friends and family. I am a total introvert who loves silent prayer, being home, and playing piano. 

In this way, we truly complement each other so well and bring out the best in each other. He really is my perfect match.

When COVID started, we were hopeful that things would normalize by our wedding date of October 3, but as the months progressed it became clear that would not be the case. We had to make the difficult decision to cancel our big reception. 

However, God was so faithful. Our wedding Mass happened with no interruptions (minus some masks!) on a beautiful October day. It was so evident that the Holy Spirit was moving during our Mass through the priests celebrating, our family and friends present, and the beautiful music. 

Although we had to cancel our larger reception, we were able to have an intimate dinner afterwards with our closest family.

Looking back, it is so clear that our wedding day was anointed. It was absolutely perfect in every way. The sacraments of the Eucharist and matrimony prevailed over all. 

Nothing, not even a pandemic, can prevail against Christ and His Church.

Photography: Amy & Kyle Catholic Photography | Nuptial Mass: Our Mother of Consolation Roman Catholic Church, Philadelphia, PA | Reception Venue: Flourtown Country Club, Flourtown, PA | Rings: Zales | Bride’s Dress: David's Bridal | Bridesmaid Dresses: David's Bridal | Tuxes: Men's Wearhouse | Transportation: Luxury Limo | Hair & Make Up: Kouture Beauty | Videography: Well Spun Weddings | Cake: Lochel's Bakery | Floral Design: Jennifer Griffith

Deborah + Mike | Romantic Backyard Wedding

Sweet blue floral details, thoughtfully accented with touches of ribbon and tulle, elevate a simple backyard setting on a sunlit, Ohio summer day.

Deborah and Mike met at Franciscan University of Steubenville and were friends for two years before they began to see each other in a whole new way. They relied on the guidance of Our Lady throughout their relationship and were engaged on the Feast of the Assumption. 

In planning their wedding, Deborah and Mike joined the ranks of brides and grooms who had their original hopes turned upside down by COVID-19. 

Yet at every twist, turn, and bend in the road on their journey to marriage, Our Lady continued to guide them.

From the Bride:

I had always just thought of Mike as my friend's older brother who was always very kind to me (and everyone) and a Marine Corps Veteran with a good sense of humor and some sweet tattoos. Our relationship deepened gradually and unexpectedly, and neither of us wanted to make things awkward in our friend group. 

It started with being at the library at the same time and unplanned study dates. Then suddenly we were hanging out one-on-one and going out to eat, and we found ourselves catching feelings for one another. 

Neither of us really admitted to it, and I think all of our friends around us picked up on it first. 

Before I knew it, Mike had asked all our friends for their blessing to ask me out on a date. He took me to Chick-Fil-A and then to a live action Marvel show. It was the best date I ever had, and it only went uphill from there. 

Our relationship has always been filled with the presence of Our Lady. Once, as friends, we were walking together, and Mike came with me to go pray at the Marian grotto at Franciscan, diverging from "another commitment." 

As we prayed individually to see what God wanted from us and from what was growing between us, we asked Our Lady for her guidance. 

Dating was new and exciting, but having known each other as friends took some of the nerves away. We didn't know how to be anything other than our true selves around one another. 

We felt comfortable and confident in our relationship, we learned early on how to communicate well with one another. As always, we clung to Our Lady and to the rosary along the way. 

So many rosaries and memorares were prayed at the grotto, where a beautiful image of Our Lady of Fatima stands up high against the stones. 

We both knew that without God and Mary as the foundation of our relationship, things would crumble quickly. We would often find ourselves at the adoration chapel and grotto at crazy hours throughout some difficult moments. 

Mary was always there, patiently and sweetly waiting for our arrival to shower us with love. 

Mike asked me to be his wife in the presence of Mary and Jesus, at the same grotto where it all began, and it was absolutely beautiful. 

I prayed often to Our Lady Undoer of Knots as we battled through many difficult moments that arose, and we were challenged to re-plan our wedding during a pandemic. 

Once again, Mary was there, and I clung to her more than ever as I asked for the graces to be the wife and mother that Mike and our future children deserve.

There is no greater role model than she, our sweet mother—a beacon of joy, love, and hope.

From the Photographer:

During an exceptionally gorgeous afternoon on the last day of July, Deborah and Mike were married in St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Steubenville, OH. They had originally planned on having a May wedding in Georgia, but—like most couples getting married in a pandemic—their plans had to change. 

Although both the location and date had to shift, Deborah still had a beautiful vision for her wedding. She has such a gift for decorating, planning, and putting together such pretty details, which elevated the whole day.

Surrounded by family and friends, and the prayers of those who watched via livestream, Deborah and Mike promised to be faithful to each other through all of life’s ups and downs. 

The nuptial Mass was stunning, and it was such a joy to photograph a wedding in our home parish! Their reception was in Mike’s family’s backyard, and it was the perfect setting for a joy-filled evening. 

One of my favorite details at the reception was a little table filled with images of Deborah and Mike including a watercolor painting of them. Guests signed it, and it will hang in their home as a reminder of their wedding day.

Planning a wedding in a pandemic is certainly not for the faint of heart, and couples are tested in so many ways. Through it all, Deborah and Mike kept their eyes on what mattered most: the sacrament. 

As long as they were married in the presence of God and His Church, they were happy.

Photography: Laura and Matthew | Nuptial Mass: St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Steubenville, Ohio | Bride’s Dress: Hayley Paige | Bridal Salon: Wedding Angels Bridal Boutique | Floral Design: Ed McCauslen’s Florist | Videography: Alyssa Dombrowski | Stationery: Zazzle | Cake: Emily’s Flower Garden | Catering: Federico’s | Bridesmaid Dresses: BHLDN and Azazie | Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse and Dazi

Natasha + George | Bridge Between Two Hearts

A love story beginning on the streets of NYC finds fulfillment in a Cincinnati summer wedding filled with military flair.

Natasha and George met for their first date at the Canal Street Station in New York; they walked around the city, chatting easily about life. From the start, Natasha noticed that George would acknowledge each person he walked by, rather than ignoring various passersby as she was accustomed to doing on busy NYC streets. 

What was supposed to be a lunch date, turned into an all-day event, traversing the city and the Brooklyn Bridge, grabbing gelato, and heading to a local restaurant to top off the evening where Natasha eagerly agreed to a second date.

While navigating career moves, long distance, shuttered churches, and a pandemic, Natasha and George held on to the hope of being married in July, before George would be subject to deploy at any time.

God faithfully answered their prayers as they entered the Sacrament of marriage in a beautiful Church surrounded by navy blue hues and bright white florals. They then celebrated their union with their bridal party at the base of another very special bridge.

From the Bride:

I was a journalist at Bloomberg News, and George was a senior at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. On our first date we dove into our faith lives, talking about growing up Catholic, attending Mass with the Pope, and participating in various young adult groups.

I could barely believe it: George was a devoted Catholic, a gentleman, a motivated learner—and not to mention, very good looking!

Falling in love in New York City was a dream. We strolled through Central Park, attended Sunday Mass in the Lower East Side, visited the Met, had a rooftop picnic, saw a Broadway play, and cheered on the home team at Yankee Stadium. I was even able to see George’s graduation from West Point and his commissioning as an officer. 

George helped me move to North Dakota for a short-term job, and he moved to Oklahoma for his first duty station. Neither of us enjoyed long distance, but we tried to make the best of it as we watched movies over FaceTime, cooked new recipes for dinner dates, and prayed together each night before bed.

It didn’t take long for the two of us to realize we wanted our relationship to last forever; in fact, it only took a few months. George asked me to marry him during our first Thanksgiving holiday as a couple. He gave the sweetest speech, ending it with, “Will you marry me?” 

Leading up to Christmas, we prayed a Novena to the Holy Family and began an intensive marriage preparation program. We learned more about our faith, our roles as man and woman, and our responsibilities to each other and the Church through marriage. 

We were able to talk more deeply with each other. I felt very lucky that contraception was not on the table for either of us. 

Although George was worried that would mean we would have 11 kids and counting, I reassured him that through Natural Family Planning we could faithfully plan our family together with God. The actual NFP course reassured us even more that we were doing the right thing for our marriage, future family, Catholic community, and God.

However, planning a wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic really put us to the test. George was quarantined at his duty station in Kentucky for months, and I was an emotional wreck at my parents’ home in Ohio. 

We faced uncertainty and a lot of changed plans surrounding our July 11 wedding date, but we felt this was our one shot, as George could get deployed at any time in the months following. We prayed more, but it was often a struggle, as we both felt distant from God because churches were shut down.

In preparation for our wedding day, we prayed a second Novena to the Holy Family, begging Jesus to keep us and everyone else from getting sick and to bless our marriage. To our surprise, when the day rolled around, everything fell into place.

When George saw me for the first time, walking down the aisle, he cried, and I felt even more assured in that moment that God had led me to the right man. During our wedding Mass, we together sang our hearts out, held hands and prayed, received Communion, and laid flowers before Mary. 

After Mass, in a small room by ourselves, we washed each other’s feet as a symbol of service to one another.

Even with all the uncertainty of wedding planning during the pandemic, I would do it a thousand times over, as long as I’d get to spend forever with my sweet husband, George.

From the photographer:

Natasha and George’s wedding day had so many special moments. During Natasha’s first look with her father, I was privileged to witness firsthand the joy and admiration on his face. The love of a father for his daughter is so tender and special, and this moment was truly priceless.

The couple chose to exchange letters and pray together before Mass. This was such an intimate moment between them, right before they became husband and wife. 

We took bridal party photos at Smale Riverfront Park beside the Roebling Suspension Bridge. This bridge held special meaning for the couple as it connects Ohio and Kentucky—where they each grew up. 

It also happens to have been designed by John A. Roebling, who went on to design the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, the setting of George and Natasha’s first date! 

Despite the pandemic and all of the restrictions, the Lord blessed this couple abundantly. It was so evident how much they loved the Lord and each other. 

Their wedding Mass was the center of their day, and it was clear how seriously they took sacrament. It is always so life-giving to encounter faithful Catholics whose witness provides me with so much hope for the future.

Photography: Laura and Matthew | Nuptial Mass Location: St. Boniface Catholic Church, Cincinnati, OH | Reception Venue: Receptions Fairfield, Cincinnati, OH | Bride’s Gown: Wendy’s Bridal, Morilee by Madeline Gardner | Floral Design: Swan Floral | DJ: Absolute DJs | Cake: Cakes By Mindy At Receptions | Bride’s Hair: Heidi Rogers | Bridesmaid Hair: Kentucky Updos | Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal, Vera Wang | Invitation Suite: Posh Paper

Sarah + Jacob | Flawless Fall Wedding Amidst Pandemic

A marriage celebration among the rolling hills of a country farm, awash with golden autumn sunshine and a kaleidoscope of colorful blooms.

After attending the wedding of a close friend, Sarah began praying for, and writing to, her future spouse. However, she never expected to meet her husband, Jacob, due to a home improvement project gone wrong.

While an Ohio wedding was not what the couple originally had in mind, their chapel ceremony and outdoor reception provided the perfect beginning to their new life together. 

The dusty blue hues of the bridal party’s attire supplied a stunning backdrop for the brightly colored florals to truly shine—and not even a pandemic could darken their joyful rays.

From the Bride: 

It was a brisk summer day in a small Oregon mountain town. My best friends were getting married there that weekend. 

As we began the rehearsal, the bridal party lined up to practice their walk down the aisle; however, my groomsman counterpart had yet to arrive. 

I would need to make the 100-yard trek alone. At the end of the aisle stood my spiritual father, Fr. Nathan, smiling as I made my way. 

As the rehearsal progressed, and the bridal party began to exit our rows, I was still partnerless. Fr. Nathan looked at me, took my arm and started walking with me down the aisle. 

He whispered, “You will find your St. Joseph one day.” Thus, I began praying to find my St. Joseph.

Three short months later, I sat frustrated in my room journaling to my “future St. Joseph” about my failed attempt at hanging new shelving. 

My unsuccessful efforts had left numerous holes in the wall. I dreamed of the day I would have the man I wrote to there, helping me to hang those shelves just as St. Joseph the carpenter would have done.

Defeated, my roommate kindly asked her brother to help.

Little did I know that as I watched this man help hang those shelves and patch the holes, my St. Joseph was standing before me.

Jacob and I were married on September 26th in Christ the King Chapel with a smiling Fr. Nathan standing at the altar.

Now, Jake and I are currently remodeling our 120-year-old home. Some joke that he is the “Chip” to my “Joanna”. 

I do not see it this way. Because each day I am reminded more and more of the words whispered to me in a small church in Oregon: “You will find your St. Joseph one day.”

From the Photographer: 

Imagine the most perfect early fall day, the warm sun shining, some passing clouds and ending the day with a cool breeze. Now, picture a beautiful farm in the country, a large white tent lit with string lights, filled with your dearest friends and family. 

The sounds of laughter, music, and dancing filling the air as the sun sets over the rolling hills. That is just a taste of the beauty of Sarah and Jacob’s wedding day in Steubenville, Ohio.

Though they were originally planning on a west-coast wedding, their plans changed due to the COVID restrictions in California. They decided to keep their wedding date, but move the location.

They were married in Christ the King Chapel on the campus of Franciscan University. Sarah and Jacob originally met in Steubenville and plan to continue living there, so it was fitting that they were married in the place it all began.

Everything about their day was picture perfect, from the gorgeous details at the beginning of the day, to the stunning BHLDN gown and veil. But the detail that stole the show were the florals; everyone was talking about them! 

Flowers have the ability to elevate a wedding in a way that no other detail can. The bright pinks, lush greens, and happy oranges provided stunning pops of color throughout the bouquets, centerpieces, and even the cake! 

Even though Sarah and Jacob’s plans for their wedding day had to change drastically and many beloved family members watched via livestream, God blessed them with a joyful and beautiful wedding. Their focus was on the Lord, the sacrament, and the beginning of a lifelong marriage together.

Photography: Laura and Matthew | Nuptial Mass Location: Christ the King Chapel, Franciscan University, Steubenville, OH | Wedding Reception Venue: The Sunnyside Country Retreat, Amsterdam, OH | Bride’s Dress: BHLDN | Wedding Planner: Jeannene Lillie Events | DJ: Brandon Michael | Videography: Meredith Munro | Floral Design: Rachel Lash | Cookie Table and Cake: Family and friends of the couple | Hair and Makeup: Legal Hair | Catering: Cooked Goose Catering | Bridesmaids Dresses: Lulu’s + Called To Surf | Groomsmen Attire: Macy’s + The Tie Bar | Stationery: Minted | Rentals: All Events Rental

Tara + Sean | Elegant Extended-Celebration Wedding

While wedding planning during a pandemic brought countless challenges, Tara and Sean were determined to be married on the date they originally set, May 16.

These college sweethearts chose to celebrate their marriage on two distinct days, allowing them to fully focus on the different aspects of the celebration. After five years of dating and an 18-month engagement, God provided for them to be joined as husband and wife in the presence of their closest family members and bridal party.

On a sunny day later that summer, they gathered with the rest of their wedding guests to celebrate their union. With months between their nuptial Mass and reception, Tara and Sean learned firsthand that love is patient, and God is faithful.

From the Bride:

Our story is one of faithfulness. A story that stood the test of time and of doubt, fear, and uncertainty. The rainbow at the end of the storm.

Seven years ago, Sean began to pursue me in a way that no other man had ever sought to know me. We met our freshman year of college and were drawn to each other because of our similar beliefs. 

He’ll claim that it was my smile and my faith in God that he was first attracted to. I’d say it was his selflessness and sense of humor.

I knew we were on the right path when he asked my dad for permission to date me. After five years of growing closer to each other and closer to God, Sean proposed during a surprise photo shoot with my family. 

The next day, we felt God’s blessing over our engagement when the readings from the Mass reminded us that, “what God has joined together, no human being must separate.”

In 2020, not even the 18 months of wedding and marriage planning could prepare us for all of the uncertainty that came with the COVID-19 pandemic. 

We were forced to make unimaginable changes, but God prevailed in the end. He sent us the most compassionate priest and allowed us to celebrate our marriage on two days.

After many tears and lots of prayers, we were able to be joined in the sacrament of holy matrimony in the presence of our closest family members and wedding party. 

God protected us that day and allowed us to experience pure joy. A few months later, we finally got to celebrate our marriage at a reception with the rest of our wedding guests. 

Our faith was strengthened through the trials, and the final results were a testament to God’s faithfulness.

The blessing of having two days to celebrate our marriage was that I was able to focus on the two major parts of the wedding. For part one, the emphasis was on the nuptial Mass, and for part two, the emphasis was on the celebration. 

Thankfully, we had quality time with our wedding party to get ready together on both days. This time together meant the world to us after months of being apart. 

We shared gifts with our closest people, and they wrote letters to us. It was the perfect way to start the day with a walk down memory lane of some beautiful friendships and a reminder of our support system. 

Sean and I both come from large, Irish-Catholic families. Being the oldest girl cousin in my family, I knew I wanted some of my cousins to be involved in the wedding. We were so thankful that they were able to be there as our flower girls and ring bearers. 

Our parents received special gifts as well, since these days would not have been possible without them. I will forever treasure the moments of my mom helping me get into my dress and my dad seeing me as a bride for the first time. 

While Sean and I decided to go the traditional way of waiting to see each other until I walked down the aisle, we had a special moment together back-to-back as we read letters to each other. Sean also read a letter that I had written in 2013 to my future husband—just a few days before we officially started dating. 

Just moments before walking down the aisle, one of my bridesmaids offered to pray over me.

Her words of faith and encouragement were exactly what I needed in that moment. After a crazy morning of rushing to get ready, those moments to pause and take it all in were incredibly special. 

My dad and I joked about the first time he walked me down the aisle, which was actually about 20 years earlier when I was a flower girl in my aunt’s wedding. I wouldn’t walk alone because I had just busted my lip moments prior to the ceremony. 

I promised him this time I would be more careful, but he could still hold my hand as he walked with me. 

As the church doors opened, Sean turned around and started bawling. I couldn’t help but smile as I walked towards my soon-to-be husband—a moment that I honestly wasn’t sure would happen during the uncertainty of changed wedding plans. 

The beauty of the Catholic Mass put me at ease. It felt like a ceremony I had attended many times before, but this time God was uniting us in the most holy way possible.

Our family members read some of the same readings that we heard at Mass the day after our engagement. We were reminded of “a still more excellent way” and that He will “allow us to live together to a happy old age.”

During the homily, our priest talked about how our love is so resilient. As a part of our marriage preparation, he had us write letters about our hopes for our marriage in 10 years. 

We didn’t know until that moment that we would read those hopes aloud to our family and friends. We both talked about our commitment to each other, desiring a God-centered family, and growing together as we lead each other to heaven. 

Perhaps one of the best moments of our May ceremony was the opportunity to be extraordinary ministers of holy Communion. Because most churches were still closed due to the pandemic, this was the first time in months that many of our guests had physically received the Eucharist. 

We could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit as we offered the body of Christ to each of our loved ones. 

We left that Mass as husband and wife with celebratory “Mr. & Mrs.” balloons to show for it. 

In August, the rest of our guests came together to witness our final wedding moments. We finally got our first dance together, special dances with our parents, speeches from our loved ones, amazing food from our caterer, ice cream and cake for dessert, and a sparkler send-off as a grand finale. 

Although we had to wait a few more months, it was worth it to have most of our friends and family there to celebrate with us. 

During the planning, I remember focusing so much on the songs, timeline, decorations, and other little details of the day. But when the pandemic occurred, I was reminded that I am not in control. 

It was a lesson of giving over control to the One who is in control. Because in the end, both days came together beautifully. 

While it wasn’t the original plan we had imagined, the love and support that we received surpassed all of our expectations. It was a testimony to God’s plan for us and the ways that He has instilled our trust in Him as He continues to bless our marriage.

Photography: Catherine Rhodes Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, O’Fallon, MO | Wedding Reception Venue: Stone House of St. Charles, St. Charles, MO | Rings: Diamonds Direct St. Louis | Floral Design: Petal Pushers STL | Stationery: Rock Paper Scissors | Caterer: Ces & Judy’s | Bride’s Dress: Cleo Bridal | Bride’s Jewelry: Olive & Piper | Bridesmaid Dresses: White Traditions Bridal | Suit Rentals: Savvi | Cake: Wedding Wonderland | Ice Cream: Clementine’s Creamery | Bar: Booze Brothers | Hair and Makeup: Belleza Salon | Videography: Pancho3

Gretchen + Peter | Autumn in Baltimore

A TLM celebration dusted with gold and Shire-inspired charm, illuminating the Lord’s providence amid the challenges of COVID-19 and military life.

Gretchen and Peter became fast friends as plebes at the U.S. Naval Academy, bonding over a mutual love of Tolkien and Star Wars. During their second semester at the academy, Peter asked Gretchen out, and within a week of their relationship’s official start, asked if she’d consider regularly attending church together.

From the Bride:

Peter was Catholic, but I wasn’t at the time. I was raised Presbyterian and had drifted from my faith in high school, but had felt God calling me to make him more central in my life. I was thrilled, then, to have a boyfriend who wanted to make faith an important part of our relationship. 

Our differences in beliefs became a source of constant discussion and debate as our relationship progressed. I had never met a Catholic who was truly devoted to his faith before, and Peter’s complete confidence in the teachings of the Church was eye-opening. A number of common Protestant misconceptions about Catholicism that I’d held began to fall away as Peter shared his faith with me. 

I ultimately realized that God was calling me to come into the Church after I prayed a rosary for the first time, two years after meeting Peter; I’ve been thanking the Blessed Mother ever since for leading me home. 

I was received into the Church at the Naval Academy’s Easter Vigil Mass in 2019 with my parents, Peter, and his family by my side. 

Peter’s love and enduring patience throughout my conversion process are a testament to what an incredible man he is. He loved me as I was, was never pushy, and always pointed me toward God and the discernment of his will in any moments of uncertainty or doubt about my beliefs or about the future. 

After three years of dating, it was easy to see how powerfully God had worked through Peter to bring me closer to him--and how he had worked through me to do the same for Peter. We had been talking about the possibility of marriage since fairly early on in our relationship, but weren’t sure how to proceed when we knew we’d have to spend our first two to three years after graduation living in separate states for our training (he to be a pilot, me to serve on submarines). 

Ultimately, after many months of praying, talking, and seeking advice, we realized we’d rather face the trials of separation with the graces of matrimony at our disposal. Peter proposed in front of a statue of St. Joseph, in the garden of our local parish, and we got to work planning an October wedding.

When COVID-19 first hit, we held on to our plans for over 250 guests, hoping things would clear by October. Ultimately we were forced to reconsider when our reception venue dropped out two months prior to our date. 

As we discerned what to do next, we realized what we wanted more than anything else was simply to be married, and to enjoy the limited time we had together before the Navy sent us to our separate duty stations. 

We decided to move our date up by 5 weeks and to reduce our guest list to 50 family members and friends.By God’s grace, our church, wedding planner, and photographer were all available on the new date. Our planner was absolutely fantastic and helped us navigate all of the changes in contracts and venues that had to be dealt with. 

Peter and I have had a devotion to the Traditional Latin Mass since we first started attending together at the National Shrine of St. Alphonsus Liguori in Baltimore. My introduction to the rich traditions of the Catholic faith was a pivotal part of my conversion process, and Peter fell in love with the reverence and beauty of the traditional Mass the more we attended and learned about it. 

We knew we wanted to be married in a traditional Nuptial Mass at St. Alphonsus, but we wanted to be sure our families wouldn’t feel alienated by the language barrier or the unfamiliar form--after all, barely anyone in my family had even attended a regular Catholic Mass! We prioritized writing a program that gave our guests a clear idea of what to expect and how best to appreciate the beauty of the Mass. 

Music was another priority for us, as it can be one of the most beautiful aspects of the Traditional Latin Mass. While we would have loved to have a small schola sing polyphonic settings of the Mass, COVID made this dream unsafe. We were permitted one singer and an organist, however, which meant that we were still able to be married in a High (sung) Mass rather than a Low Mass (wherein everything is spoken and there is little or no music). 

On the day of the wedding, my bridesmaids and I got ready in my parents’ hotel suite and were joined by a number of close family friends. My maid of honor, an amateur makeup enthusiast, did all of our makeup beautifully. I was able to check all of the Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue boxes: I wore my mother’s wedding dress, which was beautifully preserved and fit so perfectly that we didn’t have to make a single alteration! My veil was new, I borrowed my mother’s pearl necklace, and I wrapped a blue-beaded rosary--a Christmas gift designed by Peter--around my bouquet. 

After arriving at the church, Peter and I did a “first prayer” around the corner of a wall from each other before preparing for the procession. I walked down the aisle with my father to the tune of “Thaxted”--the portion of Holst’s “Jupiter” that is used for one of our favorite hymns, “O God Beyond All Praising.”

Related: A Catholic photographer’s tips for a memorable & seamless First Prayer

In the traditional Nuptial Mass, the first thing that occurs after the procession is the actual marriage of the spouses, so Peter and I were married within the first 5 minutes of the ceremony! Since Peter has Croatian ancestry, we chose to incorporate the Croatian tradition of holding a crucifix while saying our vows (a tradition that we learned about through Spoken Bride!). 

Our priest gave a fantastic, convicting homily about the powerful witness of a Catholic marriage in today’s society; he reminded us that neither Peter nor I should ever think of ourselves before we think of one another again, and helped to explain the traditional readings (the discussion of submission in Ephesians 5 can be rather off-putting to modern ears) in the light of Our Lord’s love and sacrifice. 

Our singer was phenomenal. She chanted the traditional Mass settings with an ethereal beauty, and made some of our favorite hymns (“Ubi Caritas,” “Anima Christi,” and “O Sanctissima”) come alive for the offertory and Communion meditations and the offering of flowers to the Blessed Mother. We received numerous comments from family and friends, Catholic and non-Catholic alike, about how beautiful the Mass was. It was one of the greatest joys of the day to share the beauty of our faith in this way.

We were incredibly blessed to be able to have a small, socially-distanced reception, with dinner and dancing and all we had hoped for prior to COVID. The smaller guest list ended up being a gift--we were able to really spend time with each of our guests, and we actually got to eat our dinner! 

Peter opted to wash my feet instead of doing a garter toss; a number of family members had never seen this done at a wedding before, and commented on the beauty of the practice. Our original dream had been to have a Hobbit party-themed reception, inspired by Bilbo Baggins’ birthday party from The Lord of the Rings. While the venue change made it difficult to fully execute our initial vision, the inspiration shone through in the little details: our cake matched Bilbo’s birthday cake (on a smaller scale and without the candles!), fabric banners and paper lanterns abounded, and the food, joy, and merriment of the night were enough to match any Hobbit’s enthusiasm for a good celebration.

From the Groom: 

As all couples who were married during COVID times can attest, the planning and execution of our wedding were an exercise in trusting God and each other. What at first appeared to be great crosses ended up being great blessings: the reduced guest list allowed us to share more time with our guests, and our reception venue canceling on us prompted us to move up our date by several weeks. This change in particular was a blessing, as we found out shortly after the wedding that Gretchen's military orders had changed and required her to report to her new duty station only two days after our original wedding date. 

Embracing God's challenge by moving up our date allowed us to have those wonderful five weeks together, soaking up the joys of finally being married and preparing for our time apart. Since our wedding, our intimacy has grown, bolstered by the beautiful Nuptial Mass, the prayers of our loved ones, and the grace of the sacrament. 

A friend asked me the day after the wedding if I felt different. It's the same question I've been asked on significant birthdays or at a graduation. But unlike those times, I really do feel different.

Every day, I profoundly feel both the weight of the responsibility for my wife's soul and the graces that enable me to bear it.

Photography: Emily Karcher Photography, LLC & Katherine Elizabeth Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: National Shrine of Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Baltimore, MD | Wedding Reception Venue: Gramercy Mansion Carriage House, Stevenson, Maryland | Wedding Coordination: Simply Created Events | Caterer: The Classic Catering People, Owings Mills, Maryland | DJ: District Remix, Columbia, Maryland | Floral Design: Flowers and Fancies, Baltimore, Maryland | Hair: Updos for I Do’s | Rings: Zachary's Jewelers, Annapolis, Maryland | Invitations: Paper in the Park | Bride’s Veil: The Mantilla Company | Maid of Honor Dress: Jenny Yoo Anabelle dress in Cabernet | Bridesmaid Dresses: David's Bridal | Bridesmaids' Shawls: Mia Kraft | Bridesmaid's Veils: Veil By Tradition

Surprised by Smallness

JESSICA JONES

My husband and I were going to have a 250 person wedding. My sister and her husband were going to have a 150 person wedding. But the year was 2020, and our plans were about to be dashed again and again.

PHOTOGRAPHY: LAURA AND MATTHEW AS SEEN IN TIANA AND AJ’S FRANCISCAN UNIVERSITY PORT WEDDING

This is not an essay, however, on dashed plans. Instead, I want to talk about the hidden blessings of a pandemic wedding and why I’m so happy my sister and I did not get the weddings of our “dreams.” 

Now, of course, if you’re dreaming of or absolutely loved your huge wedding, that is wonderful! I love big weddings, as is probably clear from the fact that my husband and I at first wanted a large wedding ourselves. 

But now, in hindsight, after having the micro-est of micro-weddings (how’s 15 people for you?) and after attending my sister’s small wedding (50 people at a friend’s house for the reception!), I am ready to say: I’m utterly sold on the small wedding. 

And I hope that one of the many strange and unexpected blessings of this pandemic lasting into the future is that brides-to-be won’t be afraid to have an intimate, down-home wedding and reception.

Let me tell you for a moment how incredible it was.

Time stood still. 

I’ve heard many of my friends talk about how their wedding Mass was a blur; how walking down the aisle was so intimidating with all their friends and family staring; and how they really just wished they could have been in the moment more than they were. With a small wedding, my husband and I found that having only our closest family and friends there gave us immediate peace and security. 

I remember every single moment of our wedding Mass, and I actually got to contemplate and pray for my husband and our marriage as a result. So, while we’re glad to have a video of our Mass to show our children someday, it’s also wonderful to have distinct memories of that Mass and our vows. I consider it the greatest of gifts to have had the tranquility to pray with such attention at the beginning of our marriage.

We played music, danced, ate, and drank until our hearts’ content – and no one kicked us out! 

You may have the reception hall of your dreams picked out (I know I did!), but the pandemic has made me fall completely in love with the beauty, simplicity, and freedom of a home reception. Jam sessions erupted at both my sister’s and my wedding, we danced whenever we wanted for as long as we wanted, celebratory cigars and toasts were happening every fifteen minutes or so – and the end of each evening came naturally. 

It came not with the end of our time at a venue we had no real connection with, but instead ended at the proper moment, with guests belting out the final song which accompanies every WV native’s wedding, “Country Roads.” I just remembered thinking at both receptions, wow – this all feels so natural. It was wonderful.

We heard from all our family and friends at the reception. 

One of my favorite memories of our entire reception is the speeches and words of wisdom we heard from everyone at our reception. Everyone – and I mean everyone – gave a speech, from our maid of honor to our best man, to our parents, to our best friend and priest who married us, to friends from graduate school. And the crowning jewel, which we still talk about to this day, was my husband’s speech. He toasted everyone in the room by telling everyone his first memories of them and why he admired each person. I may be biased, but I think the comfort and intimacy of the moment created an atmosphere for the best toasts I’ve ever heard.

The people who were closest to us were there. 

Again, I thought I wanted a big party. I thought I wanted the 250-person guest list. But recently, after my sister’s and my wedding, I looked back at that extended guest list. And I realized that, in having an extremely trimmed guest list, we ended up with the people who care about us the most. 

I think this tiny list, much more so than the longer list we had, reflects the truth about human relationships. A marriage is sustained by a rather small, but critical set of people who want to be there for you and who have stood the test of time. And, to have this truth reflected at one’s wedding is a powerful thing, for at the beginning of your married life, you are surrounded by those who will truly be with you for your whole lives in support of your marriage.

I hope that the pandemic, then, does change the wedding industry for many brides-to-be! For the naturalness, simplicity, peace, and freedom of an intimate wedding are incredible graces I now wouldn’t trade for anything. What I did not know last year, I know now.

---

About the Author: Jessica Jones resides in Washington, D.C. and is a Ph.D. candidate in philosophy. Her husband Patrick is also a Ph.D. student in moral theology. These days, you will find her, coffee in hand, writing furiously for her regular job or her dissertation on Plato, playing music with Patrick, winding her way through Julia Child's cookbook, or watching all Richard Linklater and Wes Anderson movies over again.

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Newlywed Life | Lessons in Love from Quarantine

STEPHANIE CALIS

If hours spent indoors alongside my husband, inhabiting the same four walls for days on end has revealed anything to me, it’s this: in marriage, there is nowhere for me to hide.

And as we enter our eleventh month of quarantine amid COVID-19, I’m actually grateful for the purification we’ve undergone. In these months of increased isolation, my shortcomings have never been more pronounced. To acknowledge them, rather than to hide, has been an ongoing pursuit.

Photography: Shannon Acton Photo, seen in Sandra + Shaheen | Glamorous Orange County Wedding

Has your relationship undergone something similar? Being home together more frequently than we ever have before has shown my husband and I who we are, and on the best days, has given us the resolve to be more who the Lord calls us to be. If the pandemic has also brought you and your spouse to this level of deeper--and sometimes, more painful--vulnerability, here I’m humbly sharing some of the lessons and fruits I’ve experienced:

It’s okay to do things differently.

In the early weeks of lockdowns, my husband and I bickered constantly over our daily routines: what was the better way to load the dishwasher? Why didn’t he make the bed right after waking? Why did I let unread texts and emails accumulate in my notifications?

While it sounds blatantly obvious to recognize that most daily tasks have no moral dimension, we struggled so frequently with thinking our personal ways of doing things were the only way. As time passed, we talked about inviting the divine into the mundane of our routines--that is, remembering even with our differing habits, we’re on the same team for life. 

Apology is a language.

Much like receiving love, receiving and accepting apologies takes on particular meaning to every person. Have you and your spouse ever discussed your “apology language”? Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages, cites “expressing regret, accepting responsibility, making restitution, genuinely repenting,” and “requesting forgiveness” as distinct languages of apology. I encourage you to talk with your spouse about what words and actions you each find most impactful and provide the most closure on an issue. This apology quiz by Dr. Chapman can help illuminate ways to facilitate meaningful apologies in your relationship.

In a time when my husband’s and my tempers have flared more frequently, quick apology and sincere forgiveness have made a noticeable difference in the overall tenor of our days. 

Loving encouragement is a skill you can develop.

My husband and I trust each other with our failings and try to receive correction humbly and honestly. Emphasis on try. In these months at home, there has been such a stripping away of myself before the man who calls me on at my worst and still sees the best in me. 

It’s become increasingly clear to us that how we call each other on is just as important as when we do (that is, not when one of us is preoccupied or when our kids require our presence and attention), and what issues we choose to bring up with one another. Instead of saying things like “Man, can’t you put your phone down?”, something more like “Is all this constant internet time the most fulfilling thing for you right now?” expresses the same sentiment in a constructive, thought-provoking way. Words matter, and my husband and I have been challenged to make our communication more loving and clear.

Enter into your shortcomings--but don’t stay there.

In quarantine there is, quite literally, no place to run. What could be an occasion to turn inward in my shame has instead shown itself to be an opportunity to go outside of  myself--confronting my weakness instead, and allowing the Lord to bring my husband and I into a deeper union.

Deciding to own up to my bad habits and daily failures hurts. But like removing any disease or poison, there is restoration on the other side of the pain. If I were to deny my mistakes, rationalize them, or refuse to believe I’m ever in the wrong, I can only imagine a bone-deep sense of loneliness. When I ask my husband’s forgiveness for my instances of impatience, bad moods, or criticism, I’m realigning myself with him, knowing that to be in error alongside him is more consoling--and more productive--than remaining unapologetic in my pride, alone. 

“It’s amazing how God has designed marriage for the salvation of the spouses: you have the choice to either close in on your selfish tendencies, refuse to serve each other and end up broken and alone. Or you can choose to learn how to place the other first, to serve each other in sacrifice and find happiness. The choice is our own.”

If the pandemic has left your home life struggling, know you aren’t alone. Communication, apology, and mercy are foundational skills we can always grow in, with the help of grace and the support of a loving spouse. Whenever the time comes that my husband and I are no longer working from home and together nearly 24/7, I pray I’ll look back on this time as one of great growth.

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About the Author: Stephanie Calis is Spoken Bride's Editor in Chief and Co-Founder. She is the author of INVITED: The Ultimate Catholic Wedding Planner (Pauline, 2016). Read more

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Dana + Joseph | Intimate Spring Florida Wedding

A May wedding on a sunny Florida day, witnessed by an intimate gathering of guests. Hints of pastel blues accented the celebration, and eucalyptus leaves garnished the joyful reception.

Dana and Joseph navigated a long-distance relationship full of precious travel memories and, eventually, a marriage proposal. But they didn’t expect to plan their wedding during a pandemic—a crisis that changed many of their plans. 

Through the powerful intercession of St. Joseph and trust in the Lord, they still celebrated “a wedding day more beautiful than [they] could ever imagine.”

From the Bride

Two years before I met Joseph, a dear friend of mine, and one of my bridesmaids, told me to pray for my future spouse. I began praying for him that same day, and it became a continual part of my prayer routine. 

St. Anne is my confirmation saint and the patron saint of unmarried women, so I asked for her intercession often. I also prayed novenas asking St. Joseph to help me find a holy spouse like him—I had no idea my husband’s name would be Joseph!

Even though Joseph and I attended the same college, we didn’t meet until joining Catholic Match several years after graduation. We immediately connected over our faith, being self-proclaimed bibliophiles, similar travel interests, and shared values. 

Joseph lived two hours away from me, and our first in-person date took place during a weekend in August of 2018. It included lunch, a visit to the local botanical gardens, and dinner. During dinner, I felt an immediate need to visit God in the adoration chapel at my church: Queen of Peace Catholic Church. 

After our date ended, I went straight to the chapel. I felt God’s overwhelming love for me and a peace about proceeding with the relationship beginning to form between Joseph and me. Later, Joseph said he felt God answered his prayers with a rainbow on the drive home. 

He’s told me it was “love at first sight” for him, but I just thought that happened in movies.

By September we were courting and visiting each other almost every weekend. We are grateful to our friends and family who let us stay with them and respected our desire not to stay overnight alone with each other until marriage. 

In October, I traveled to Ireland with one of my future bridesmaids. Throughout the whole trip, I stopped by St. Joseph chapels in churches and prayed for our relationship. One of these churches housed relics of St. Valentine, so naturally I prayed there as well. 

We even had the opportunity to visit the town of Knock, where a Marian apparition included St. Joseph!

In January, Joseph and I began praying a string of novenas to different saints we had a devotion to, alternating who would pick the next novena and saint. We continued this practice throughout our long-distance courtship and engagement. 

Some of my favorite moments together with Joseph have been during our travels. He joined my family for our Thanksgiving and Christmas tradition of enjoying the Christmas lights at Callaway Gardens in Georgia. 

A month before our engagement, we visited Savannah, Georgia for a long weekend trip enjoying history, nature, and food. We stayed in different hotel rooms during this trip, to maintain chastity. And after our engagement, we traveled to Arizona to visit some of Joseph’s family and the Grand Canyon.

Joseph proposed in the adoration chapel of my church, Queen of Peace. It was the same adoration chapel I visited after my first date with him, and it also became the church in which we were married.

During our engagement, we were told several times to expect something to go wrong. But we didn’t expect a pandemic. 

Many of our plans had to be reimagined in a matter of weeks. We relied heavily on our friends, family, and church community to help us through the challenges of getting married during COVID-19. It was also a time to reflect more fully on what was most important: the marriage sacrament, not the perfect wedding. 

In spite of this, I prayed to God for a wedding day more beautiful than I could ever imagine, and it was. When our wedding day arrived, everything fell into place.

Receiving the Eucharist was particularly emotional during our nuptial Mass, as that was our first time receiving communion since the start of the pandemic in March. Our priest, Fr. Mike Foley, blessed our rings and concelebrated our nuptial Mass with Fr. Al Esposito. Fr. Al was our main celebrant, pastor, and dear friend who prepared us for marriage.

On the day of our rehearsal, we coordinated with Fr. Al to have a holy hour of adoration beforehand. We had half an hour to ourselves before guests and family joined. This really helped to center us and chase any nerves away.

Joseph and I also received the sacrament of reconciliation. We highly recommend this to any Catholic couple before getting married!

We chose Mass readings that reflected what we wanted our marriage to emulate: we love because God first loved us. Our first reading was Tobit 8:4b-8. We selected Psalm 128 (“may the Lord bless us all the days of our lives”) for our psalm, Romans 8:31b-35, 37-39 for our second reading, and John 17:20-23 for the gospel. 

Joseph and I also wrote our own petitions and prayed for those who could not be with us, including deceased grandparents, family members, and friends.

We spent a lot of time thinking about the songs for our wedding, said in the Mass of Saint Ann. And we selected some of our favorite hymns:

• Prelude: Laudate Dominum by Mozart and Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring by Bach

• Processional: Canon in D by Pachelbel

• Presentation of Flowers to Mary: Ave Maria by Schubert

• Offertory: The Summons by John L. Bell

• Communion: How Beautiful by Twila Paris

• Recessional: The Four Seasons: Spring by Vivaldi

We initially planned to have a string quartet and vocalist, but our church’s choir director sang and played piano beautifully instead. 

The details of our wedding included many small touches of sentimentality. My “something blue” was a navy rosary from the Vatican when I studied abroad. “Something borrowed” was my mother’s pearl bracelet, and my “something old” was a bow from my grandmother’s wedding dress that my mom sewed to my “something new” dress. 

I had a difficult time finding a wedding dress that felt right, until I tried on “the one.” To my surprise, the style was called “Trinity.”

To light our unity candle, Joseph and I used our baptismal candles. And we incorporated the Croatian tradition of holding a crucifix during our wedding vows, to show that through Jesus we are united in marriage. We also presented white roses to Mary’s statue as our first act as husband and wife.

Prior to our wedding, Fr. Al encouraged us to select the variation of the nuptial blessing we preferred. While Joseph and I kneeled during this blessing, he invited our parents to lay their hands on us.

I designed programs that shared the details of our wedding Mass with accompanying explanations for any non-Catholic friends and family. It also included love-related quotes from our favorite saints. 

While I wish our wedding could have been an opportunity to show the beauty of the Catholic Mass to all our guests in person, we were unable to have more than 25 attendees. So I pray the recording of our wedding Mass still shared the joy of our wedding day. And that our vocation of marriage will share the beauty of our faith in daily life.  

My mom and I crafted the reception decorations. I hand-lettered signs and designed table cards that showed Joseph and me at different ages: First Communion, college, etc. We also included wedding photos of our parents and grandparents surrounding our engagement photo. 

Joseph and I wanted our family and friends to have fun despite COVID-19. Our guests who were unable to attend the wedding joined us for the reception on Zoom, and they watched us dance and give toasts and speeches. We were so grateful to a local Catholic-owned restaurant who hosted our reception after we had to change our original plans. 

Unfortunately, both our best man and maid of honor lived out of town and were unable to attend due to travel restrictions. So they recorded their speeches ahead of time, and we played them at the reception. Joseph and I still had our first dance, and my dad and I had our father-daughter dance. 

We had so much fun and surprised everyone with spontaneous dancing throughout the night. For reception music, we put together a Spotify playlist of Big Band era songs with a few modern tunes. Fr. Al was our excellent—and hysterical—master of ceremonies. 

At the end of the night, we had our send-off under glow sticks and bubbles. And despite the pandemic, our intimate wedding allowed us to spend more time with each other and our attendees while being fully present in our new marriage sacrament.

For me, getting married during COVID-19 was a spiritual journey. I’ve learned a lot throughout the wedding planning process; namely, to embrace flexibility, to be open to changes in expectations, to find gratitude in every situation, to focus on what’s most important, and to trust in God as well as our family and friends. 

The biggest lesson has been a deeper understanding that we can’t control our lives as much as we think we can. And letting go of that control and handing it to the Lord brings freedom.

Photography: Jimmy Ho Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Gainesville, Florida | Wedding Reception Venue: Napolatano’s Restaurant, Gainesville, Florida | Day-Of Coordination: Sandy DeTeresa, friend of the couple | Décor: made by the Bride and Mother of the Bride | Rings: The Gem Collection, Tallahassee, Florida; Manly Bands | Flowers: Publix | Cake: Publix | Wedding Program: Made by the bride and printed locally by Alta Systems, Inc. | Invitations: Shutterfly | Bride’s Dress and Veil: OML Bridal | Bridesmaids’ Attire: David’s Bridal | Groom’s and Groomsmens’ Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Hair: Eden Michele Salon | Makeup: done by the Bride | Church Music: Gary Kneal, Music Director at Queen of Peace | Reception Music: Spotify playlist made by the Bride and Groom | Ice Cream (surprise from a bridesmaid!): Sweet Dreams Homemade Ice Cream of Gainesville

Sally + Brendan | Backyard Garden Party Pandemic Wedding

A simple but sacred summertime wedding. The bride walked down the aisle with flowers woven into her hair. Afterwards, guests flocked to an intimate celebration at a backyard garden party, where under a white canopy, mason jar florals on long wooden tables brightened the joyful brunch.

Despite pandemic conditions, Sally and Brendan planned a beautiful garden party wedding. In the months leading up to their nuptials, they turned their focus to the sacrament, creating the freedom to let go of unnecessary stresses surrounding their ceremony and reception.

From the Bride

Throughout our engagement, I tried to ensure Brendan and I spent more time preparing for the sacrament of marriage than the “party” of the day. We were very aware of this deeper purpose for our wedding, and that helped prevent stress over the material things.

Before the pandemic, I actually wanted a backyard wedding reception at my parents’ home, like a graduation party, but they wanted a more traditional reception. 

The church I grew up at, next door to my parents, built a reception space that was dedicated the same day as our wedding. We were supposed to have our first reception there, but then COVID happened and everything changed.

So we moved up our Mass to 11AM and planned a garden party brunch in my parent's backyard. After the liturgy, the bridal party took pictures at Ohio State University, where I and several of my bridesmaids went to school. 

I love brunch parties, so I was very excited about the idea of a brunch reception. I even bought a beautiful white, floral dress from LoveShackFancy to change into for the garden party. 

We placed some of my favorite saints and pictures of Our Lady on the tables. We didn't have assigned seating and allowed people to spread out as much as they wanted. I preferred to “float around” while I ate, especially as I greeted our guests. 

The music suggestions I gave our DJ to play during brunch included Vampire Weekend and Glass Animals, and they delivered. 

I loved being at my parents home. I was 100% comfortable and could simply walk inside if anyone needed anything. I hope everyone had as much fun as we did!

When I was trying on wedding dresses at my appointment, I looked for a gown that was easy to move around in and was modest. I did a lot of running around in my dress on the day of the wedding and even changed into something comfier for the reception.

It really was a lovely day. It included all my favorite things and just happened to also be our wedding.

Our nuptial Mass gave me a greater appreciation for the beauty of Ad Orientem liturgies, where the priest offers most of the Mass with his back to the liturgy (and facing God in the sanctuary). 

I probably won’t be the minister of a sacrament again (since the bride and groom are actually the ministers of the sacrament of marriage). But I frequently closed my eyes to fully participate and focus on Jesus instead of getting distracted by everyone behind us. I found myself turning to look at Jesus in the tabernacle too. 

In spite of all the changing plans, Brendan and I were still married in the presence of our Lord. And that was all that mattered.

Photographer: Judith Madrid Photography | Nuptial Mass: St. Catharine's Church in Columbus, OH | Wedding Reception Venue : Sally's Parents home in Columbus, OH | Catering: Mustard Seed Catering | DJ: Sonus Entertainment | Bride & Bridesmaid Hair: Blowout Bar | Rings: TIP Jewels | Flowers: Flowerman | Rentals: Metro Cuisine

Tracy + Ryan | Cincinnati Cityscape Wedding

A white wedding on an August day. And inside the church, high domed ceilings, a checkered aisle, and a white marble altar painted the background of the liturgy. Bride and groom were married under grand columns of pale blue, before removing to an elegant high rise, where the Cincinnati skyline gleamed through glass windows.  

Tracy and Ryan were married on the Solemnity of the Assumption, to honor their devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. She had helped them navigate the decisions and uncertainty of planning a wedding in a pandemic year. By the time they stood together at the altar, joy, peace, and grace abounded.

From the Bride

Ryan and I met while we were both working in finance at Macy’s, Inc. in downtown Cincinnati. After several years of being coworkers, our friendship slowly grew into something more, and Ryan finally decided to break his rule of “not dating a coworker.” 

Even before we officially dated, Ryan and I had often attended Mass together on Sunday evenings. And we occasionally went to daily Mass during our lunch breaks. When asked what our favorite thing is about each other, we both answer “their Catholic faith” without hesitation.

One overcast and rainy Sunday morning after 9AM Mass, at the church where we would eventually be married, Ryan proposed. I thought we were going to visit a new chapel on the campus of Xavier University, but Ryan took me completely by surprise. Instead of going in, he got down on one knee outside the chapel, and the rest is history.

After that, we did not have the smooth engagement we probably envisioned on the day we were engaged.

For the past two years, Ryan traveled to Chicago every weekend to pursue an MBA at the University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business. This left little quality time for us to spend together. And with the pandemic hitting in the spring this year, we were suddenly faced with more adversity than we could have imagined. 

We were also faced with the decision of whether to delay our wedding. Ryan and I prayed the rosary together every day in the month leading up to our decision. With the help of Mary, Undoer of Knots, we ultimately decided to proceed with our nuptial Mass and push our reception to 2021. A small dinner for our family and wedding party was hosted after the liturgy instead. 

Mary’s intercessory power during this time was so great, and we have felt her motherly love continue as we live married life together.

Our wedding was on a bright, sunny, and hot August day in Cincinnati, Ohio. We chose August 15th because it coincided with the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. And we knew we wanted Mary to have a place of honor in the liturgy. 

As we began to plan our wedding, we learned that getting married on a Holy Day of Obligation required us to use the Mass readings for the day, rather than selecting the readings ourselves. When we read the readings for the Assumption, however, we couldn’t have been happier. The Gospel story of the Visitation and Mary’s Magnificat were perfect reminders of the joy we were invited into on our wedding day.

The bridal party and families processed in to “O God Beyond All Praising,” which was the hymn Ryan and I had talked about since before we were even engaged. The lyrics have always been meaningful to us, but they resonated even more in a COVID era: 

“And whether our tomorrows be filled with good or ill, 

We'll triumph through our sorrows and rise to bless you still: 

To marvel at your beauty and glory in your ways, 

And make a joyful duty our sacrifice of praise.”

One special part of the nuptial Mass was the blessing of rosaries, which happened after communion and before our dedication to Mary. I had my grandmother’s crystal rosary blessed, and Ryan had a black beaded rosary. During the blessing, we held our rosaries in each other's hands, while our celebrant took off his stole and wrapped our hands in it. 

After that, we brought flowers to Mary and knelt before her as “Magnificat (All That I Am)” played. It was a beautiful tribute to Our Lady, especially considering her intercession leading up to our day.

Ryan and I are in complete awe at how many of our prayers were answered leading up to our wedding day. From praying to find our spouse to deep anxieties over re-planning our wedding during the pandemic, prayers were answered all at once. It was overwhelming. 

I was particularly anxious that I would feel a sense of nervousness my whole wedding day, but Mary wiped all of that away, and it was replaced with an incredible sense of peace. Instead of anxiety, the entire day was heavenly, and we are joyfully discovering the depth of God’s grace we received through the sacrament.

It’s the same depth and beauty of grace he offers to every couple who say their wedding vows with God as their witness and their support.

Photographer: AJ Studio Photography by Angela & Jaime | Nuptial Mass Location: Saint Francis Xavier Church | Engagement Location: Our Lady of Peace Chapel at Xavier University | Wedding Reception Venue: The View | Proposal Photographer: Emily Antonelli Photography | Rings: Eddie Lane’s Diamond Showroom | Flowers: Lutz Flowers | Invitations: Kahny Printing, Inc. | Caterer: Funky’s | Bride’s Dress: Anne Barge (purchased from Kelly Hill at Cincy Bridal/Lace Bridal) | Brides Alterations: A Fit of Perfection (Gerri Taker) | Tuxedos: Folchi’s | Cake: Cakes and Pastries by George | Hair: Monica Rizzo and Serenity Rose | Dinner Music: Greg Lee | Church Music: Simply Strings (Larry and Hildy Bonhaus), Dr. Mark Bailey (organ), Katherine Jennings (cantor), Matthew Anklan (trumpet) | Transportation: Jimmy’s Limousine Service | Bridesmaids Dresses: Morilee (purchased at Bridal and Formal) | Videographer: Studio58

Audrey + Jacob | Classic Lakeside Wedding

A family-centered Detroit celebration, filled with light and soft details.

 Audrey and Jacob attended the same college parish, but remained simple acquaintances for a year, seeing one another at the same Masses, game nights, bonfires, and worship nights. As they found themselves at the same events more frequently, they found common ground and a quick ease in their conversations: “He was easy to talk to and such a gentleman,” says Audrey. “It was clear he was raised well and in a faith-based home.

“As we grew closer, I was amazed by his kindness and willingness to help others. In particular, I remember him sprinting to our community room to light birthday candles for my cousin--whom he had never met--but he was sure on a mission to help me out! She and I joke that was one of the moments I knew Jacob was special.”

Jacob asked Audrey out not long after, and they spent their relationship surrounded by their campus ministry community, invoking Saint Joseph’s patronage (their parish namesake). 

They both moved to Jacob’s hometown of Detroit Lakes after graduation, where they began planning their wedding at Jacob’s childhood church. 

From the Bride:

Our wedding day was perfect! Despite the challenges of outsider comments and dealing with COVID, our day was more than I could have ever imagined. We had a full Catholic Mass. It was so special receiving the Eucharist on one of the biggest days of our life together. 

We really enjoyed picking out our favorite readings. Our First Reading was Genesis 2:18-24, read by my aunt and godmother. The Second Reading was 1 Corinthians 12:31-13:8a, which was read by my uncle and godfather. For the Gospel, we chose John 15:9-12. 

We loved choosing our ceremony music, as well. Some favorites on our day were “O God Beyond All Praising,” “Come & Journey With Me,” “How Beautiful,” “How Great Is Our God,” and “Beautiful.” We got many comments on the music selection after the Mass; our musicians sounded like angels singing from heaven!

Something that surprised me about planning and executing the wedding was how close I grew to some friends and family.

I assumed the stress of planning would get to me and those who were helping, like my parents, grandparents, and close friends. However, we were almost always on the same page, and this wedding truly brought us much closer.

In this time in my life, some of my older friendships are diminishing and I was hurt that some closer friends didn't make it to the wedding. However, for the close friends that did, it gave me a new appreciation for each of them and the meaningful relationships I do have.

I decided to include the old, new, borrowed, and blue tradition in my attire. My Something Old and Something Borrowed were most meaningful to me.

For Something Old, I used some bobby pins that had been laying around at my grandma's house for years. We chuckled at how simple and silly it was using them, but they were actually very significant. It was a part of my grandma so close to me on our big day.

For Something Borrowed, I wore my mom's wedding earrings! Surprisingly, they fit perfectly with my theme and all the other jewelry I had already picked out. 

Our celebrant had just retired a few months prior to the wedding; however, he came back to marry us. He has been a big part of our lives as we go to church with my husband's family and our friends each week, where this priest says Mass. He also guided us throughout our marriage prep. His kindness and simplicity made us feel comfortable and closer to God every time he was around.

One very touching part of our ceremony included flowers being brought to the front of the church for our grandparents who have passed away.

A few of them had died within the last year. We were so glad that we could honor and remember them, even though they couldn't be there in person. Some of my close cousins offered to bring up the flowers before Mass. It was so touching to have all of these special people in my life together.

Jacob and I have a love for the Detroit Lakes area and being on the water. After the ceremony, we took a ride around the lake on Jacob’s parent's pontoon. It was so fun letting loose with our wedding party and being on the lake where we spent so much time together while dating. During the reception, we were able to sneak away for a few more pictures on the beach as the sun was setting. These are some of my favorites and sum up our love for being outdoors, at the lake, and enjoying each other's company.

My wedding take-away is simple: keep your strong relationships going. Keep up your relationship with God. Stay close to your family. Invest in your friendships. Put each other first.

Photographer: Nikayla & Co. | Nuptial Mass Location: Holy Rosary Catholic Church | Wedding Reception Venue : Holiday Inn Detroit Lakes | Bride's Ring: Price's Fine Jewelry | Groom's Ring: Key Jeweler's St. Cloud, MN | Bride's Bouquet: Detroit Lakes Floral | Invites, RSVPs, Programs: UPS Detroit Lakes, MN | Cake & Donuts: Central Market Bakery Detroit Lakes, MN | Bride's Dress/Veil: Bridal Aisle | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Celebrations Bridal & Formal Wear | Tuxes: Halberstadt's | Bride's Hair: Amber Bryant-Olson

Alexandra + Aidan | Baltimore Basilica Pandemic Wedding

We are honored by the opportunity to walk alongside you in this marriage ministry, from Yes to I Do and beyond, and we love returning to our couples' stories as they continue to unfold. If we've featured your love story in our How He Asked engagement series we invite you to share your wedding with us as well.

Submit your wedding or engagement story to be featured on Spoken Bride!

From the divine grandeur of the Baltimore Basilica to the intimate, candlelit reception in the bride’s family home, this Maryland wedding exuded the supernatural beauty and joy of the sacrament, despite pandemic conditions.

An elegant cocktail hour and dance floor on a rustic wooden deck. A simple living room transformed into a dining area fit to rival a professional reception hall. Lavish, beautifully plated meals from the family kitchen. 

Alexandra and Aidan had planned their grand May 2020 wedding when COVID-19 hit, devastating all their carefully laid plans and postponing their nuptials. But after much prayer, patience, perseverance, and creativity compromises, their intimate celebration remained “a day that will never be forgotten.”

From the Bride

Aidan and I attended Mount St. Mary's University and officially met while leading a retreat for incoming freshmen, despite knowing each other in passing years prior. During the retreat, we began to notice one another in a new light and started discerning if it was the right time to start a relationship. We decided it was. 

Related: How He Asked | Alexandra + Aidan

One and a half years later, Aidan took me to a beautiful dinner followed by a trip to the National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes in Emmitsburg. While we lit the same candle we always did, to pray for our relationship (one of our many traditions), he proposed!

We decided to get married on May 9, 2020 at the Baltimore Basilica. Every detail was planned,  and all the vendors were booked. We were going to have a gorgeous fairytale wedding. Then COVID-19 hit, and our plans were shattered. 

We couldn’t get married on May 9th. Aidan and I were heartbroken and, quite frankly, mad at the world. We couldn't figure out what God wanted us to do with our new and difficult situation. Like so many other couples, we were faced with more than a few decisions on how to proceed. 

After much prayer and discussion, Aidan and I decided to move our nuptials to July 11, 2020. What was supposed to be a 130-person grand wedding was downsized to an intimate party of 12 family members. 

The truth that kept us grounded during that unnerving and scary time was the knowledge that we would still be married and enter into the sacrament together--that's the whole point of the wedding day, after all. 

The Mass was our constant in all the change occurring around us, and our devotion to St. Joseph kept our hearts focused on God. It was a 30 day novena to St. Joseph that gave Aidan the peace and confidence to ask for my hand in marriage before he proposed. Now St. Joseph was guiding us to the altar. 

We are both deeply inspired by the Holy Family and want to emulate their holiness in our own family life. In a way, it was only natural that we had such a drastic change in plans, like Mary and Joseph after the Annunciation. It was a constant comfort to remember that God was using a time of stress and change to strengthen our bond to each other and to him.

In the end, our wedding was still everything we wanted it to be. The ceremony was live-streamed on Facebook so our extended family and friends could watch and celebrate with us. And following our nuptials, our small party headed back to my family home to enjoy a cocktail hour featuring a beautiful display of soft pretzels with beer cheese and a charcuterie board. 

Aidan and I even snacked on 7/11 slurpees in honor of our 7/11 wedding date! 

Moving inside after the cocktail hour, our guests were shocked to see the living room transformed into a gorgeous event dining space. The fireplace was the main feature, adorned with dozens of candles and dried florals. The tables were styled with cheese cloth, taper candles, and more dried greenery. We even had a calligrapher write each guest’s name on vellum paper and placed them on each plate. 

After the usual speeches and cake cutting, Aidan and I performed our dances and had a fun exit framed by crackling sparklers. It was a night to remember and a day that will never be forgotten. Together, we took the unfortunate circumstances surrounding COVID-19 and turned it into the best day of our lives.

The most important takeaway from our wedding and the whole planning process was the knowledge that we were preparing for a marriage--not just a wedding. 

When COVID-19 hit, we were distraught and angry and experienced every possible emotion. But after prayer, reflection, and many heart-to-hearts, Aidan and I truly began to understand that God was with us and wanted the best for us, no matter what. Even if we didn't know what his plan was. 

Because of our COVID-19 wedding, Aidan and I were reminded of the most important parts of a wedding day: love and family. All we wanted was to be married under God and to have our family there to support us and celebrate. Amidst the chaos, we still had these things, and so we had our dream wedding.

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Planning/Design: Betty Lou Events | Photography: M Harris Studios | Florist: Everyday Rose Events | HAMU: JKW Beauty | Stationary/Calligraphy: Steph G Calligraphy | Catering: Hoopla! Catering | Dress: Gamberdella | Cake: Bramble Baking Co | Transportation: Thoroughbred | Groom Suit : Francos | Bridesmaids dresses: Bella Bridesmaids | Rings: Nelson Coleman | Earrings: Olive and Piper | Shoes: Bella

Betrothal Ceremony | Paola + Matt

The Lord can bring joyful, grace-filled surprises out of the most unexpected circumstances. Paola and Matt weren’t planning on postponing their October 2020 wedding, but a global pandemic forced them to prayerfully reconsider their plans.

In the end, it was this time of uncertainty that led to Paola’s discovery of the Rite of Betrothal, a beautiful but often-forgotten tradition and gift of the Church for engaged couples. Through God’s supernatural peace that “surpasses all understanding,” they were officially betrothed on the anniversary of their engagement. 

In Paola’s Words

I'm not the first to say that this pandemic has thrown a wrench (or maybe an entire shed of tools) into people's plans--including my October 2020 wedding.

In light of this, I spoke to four of my engaged girlfriends to gain their perspective and understand how they planned to move forward. Three decided to celebrate their wedding day on its original date, and one moved up her wedding and married earlier. All four postponed big celebrations and limited their ceremonies to the government-mandated ten people. 

Though slightly different in their decisions, each couple shared one thing in common: the sacrament of marriage meant more to them than the original celebration they were planning.

After hearing their experiences and gathering information from sources like the CDC and WHO (both forecasting the possibility of the virus making a second round in the fall), my fiancé and I prayed about a decision. At last, it was clear. My type-A, detail-oriented, accountant mind told me my next step: go hug a pillow and cry.

Based on all I had read and heard, I pigeon-holed myself into a restrictive thought pattern: get married now, celebrate later. My initial thought was, "If I postpone my wedding day, people might think I prioritize parties over the sacrament of marriage." This, of course, was absolutely false. 

My second, conflicting thought was, "Am I still practicing my Catholic faith if I end up postponing my wedding?" Both scenarios led to unrest in my heart, and I was in serious need of Holy peace.

I'm sure you know what kind of peace I'm referring to: the peace that only God provides. It "surpasses all understanding" (Phil 4:7). I have felt this peace only twice before: once before major surgery, and again when deciding my current living situation. I told myself I wouldn't make a decision until I felt that kind of peace again.

Enter Spoken Bride's article on betrothal ceremonies. I had never heard of the Rite of Betrothal, let alone how to pronounce it! I knew that Mother Mary and St. Joseph had been betrothed, but I didn't know anyone in modern-day society still celebrated it. As I read the article, I felt the Holy Spirit sprinkle a teaspoon of that Holy peace in my heart. 

Related: Consider A Betrothal Ceremony: What It Is, Why It's Significant + How To Plan One

I proposed the idea to my fiancé, Matt, while discussing the possibility of postponing our wedding until 2021. To my surprise, he was all for it! This was truly the Holy Spirit at work. That feeling of being forced into the aforementioned pattern, or any other marital mold, started to subside.

Matt and I were betrothed on the first anniversary of our engagement in Philadelphia by the priest overseeing our marriage prep. He’s also the celebrant for our 2021 wedding. Why Philly? That's a story over drinks! The people present at the church included the priest, our photographer, and, of course, the Holy Spirit. Honestly, that's everyone we needed.

Our betrothal has been one of the biggest blessings for us this year. Amidst the chaos COVID-19 has created, this wonderful sacramental grace has brought peace, patience, and resilience to our prolonged engagement adventure. 

Matt and I do understand the importance of the sacrament of marriage. We understand it so deeply that we have asked God for the virtue of patience to carry us to May 2021, so we can celebrate with our dear family and friends. And as he usually does, the Lord sent down the Holy Spirit to grant us the grace we needed.

So, dear reader, if you're like me and find yourself talking with your future husband about postponing the best day of your life for any reason, don’t think for a single moment that you aren’t following the teachings of our lovely faith. 

Consider a betrothal ceremony! In fact, even if you don't postpone your wedding, I still encourage you to consider the beauty of a betrothal. Just make sure you feel that Holy peace.

Photographer: I’m Mary Katherine | Church: St. Patrick's Church in Philadelphia

Daniella + Christopher | Lavender Springtime Pandemic Wedding

A simple but stunning nuptial celebration, surrounded by intimate friends and family. Bright lavender florals and teal green accents brought delight in the midst of a global crisis, and chosen Scriptures encouraged bride and groom to joyfully put on love, the “bond of perfection.”

Daniella and Christopher never anticipated a global pandemic during their engagement, but even the difficult loss of the large wedding they had planned didn’t break their foundation of faith--something they intentionally cultivated throughout their six year relationship. Together, they found strength in the words of Scripture read during their nuptial Mass: “let the peace of Christ control your hearts” (Colossians 3:15).

From the Bride 

Christopher and I met in high school during junior year math class. We hung out before and after school and even spent time with the kids at my mom's home daycare. At one point, I fell out with some friends in our friend group, but Chris looked at me and simply said, "don't worry about them, I will be your friend." 

After that, I went to one of his baseball games in the spring, and he asked me to go to dinner with him. I knew he was finally going to admit he liked me as more than a friend, and after dinner when we went for ice cream he asked me to be his girlfriend! 

I remember one of the moments I knew I loved him: 

I was kneeling in a church pew by myself before Mass, because I had missed Mass with my family earlier that day. My eyes were closed in prayer, and when I opened them Chris was there. He had already gone to Mass that morning but wanted to spend time with me. 

We chose to attend the same Catholic college, and went to Mass together every Sunday evening. During that time Chris went on a “study and serve” trip to Guatemala, and I cried when he left. I felt overcome with the feeling that he was the man I was meant to marry. I met him in the airport when he returned home nine weeks later, and he told me that seeing me there was the moment he was sure he wanted to marry me. 

After six years of dating, he proposed at the Tulsa Zoo--one of our favorite dates. We went on to plan a large wedding for May 2020, but the global pandemic unexpectedly occurred. Through much prayer and some tears over our lost dreams for our wedding day, we changed plans, and then changed them again. Our wedding became an intimate Mass with only immediate family, and we postponed the large reception for our one year anniversary. 

Our relationship has always centered around our Catholic faith, and we wove prayer and Mass together into our weekly routines. While contemplating whether we were called to marriage, I prayed a novena to St. Therese of Lisieux. It was answered with a red rose that symbolized what I had already been thinking: that Chris and I would marry each other.

We were both born and raised in strong Catholic families that went to church every Sunday, and we attended Catholic schools from kindergarten through college. We planned our nuptial Mass around Chris’s grandfather, who was the first deacon in our diocese. His uncle is a priest in a neighboring diocese. Chris’s grandfather witnessed our vows, and his uncle gave the homily, the blessing of the coins, and the lasso ceremony. 

Chris and I eventually decided that we wanted a simple day that included our favorite colors, green and purple, and lots of family. My two sisters were my maid of honor and bridesmaid, and Chris’s brother was the best man. The Mass was live-streamed for any family who couldn’t be there. 

We included the Hispanic traditions of my family by doing the blessing of the arras, or coins, to represent prosperity in marriage. We also performed the lasso ceremony to represent our unity and commitment. 

We thought it would be fun to recreate one of our first pictures together, taken seven years before our wedding. Chris and I also took pictures popping a bottle of champagne we had been gifted for our engagement, then saved for 11 months to cherish on our wedding day. We all took pictures with masks for safety, but also to commemorate the unique time during which we got married. 

We were originally set to marry at Chris’ parish, but we had to change the venue two weeks before to my parish of St. Anne’s. We had also planned to have our reception at the Tulsa Zoo (where Chris proposed) but that has been postponed due the pandemic. 

Chris and I cut our cake and shared our first dance in the living room, and my family transformed my sister's home into the reception venue for our small group. It was filled with little details representing Chris and I, our love for each other, and our new last name. I designed rustic-style programs for the ceremony and gold accent pieces including the coins, the lasso, and the cake topper. 

I crafted gift bags for each guest and vendor that included a roll of toilet paper, a pack of tissues, and hand sanitizer wrapped with green, purple, and gold ribbons. My family had green and purple masks made to match our bridal party's attire.

We chose the readings for our Mass based on a common theme of biblical couples coming together to pray with a marriage centered on God: 

Our first reading was Tobit 8:4-8, which states: “Now Lord, you know that I take this wife of mine not because of lust, but for a noble purpose. Call down your mercy on me and on her, and allow us to live together to a happy old age."

Chris and I are so blessed to be together and share our faith. We are blessed to be able to help each other work toward the noble purpose of fulfilling God's plan for our lives. Like Tobit and his wife Sarah, we hope and pray that God grants us the ability to live together to a “happy old age.”

We also like how this reading shows a couple coming together to pray for each other and for their life together, especially with the mindset of being a gift to the other. Chris and I know our marriage is a relationship between the two of us and Christ.

Our second reading was Colossians 3:12-17. The first verses list virtuous qualities to exemplify as God's beloved chosen ones: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Scripture states that "over all these put on love...the bond of perfection." While we want our marriage to embody each and every one of these qualities, we know that God's love for us and our love for each other is at the root of our relationship. We strive for the "bond of perfection:" to love each other in our choices and actions, even when we may not feel like doing so. 

Colossians 3:15 states, "let the peace of Christ control your hearts." Chris is good at remaining at peace and trusting God, while I sometimes struggle with maintaining that peace. So my husband reminds me to trust in God's plan and to re-find peace. 

Lastly, we are "called in one body" to do "everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." In a supernatural way, Chris and I are joined as one body, with Christ at the center of our marriage. We give thanks to God for this bond. We entered into this sacrament full of thanks for one another and for all God has blessed us with, continues to bless us with, and will bless us with in the future.

Our Gospel was John 15:9-12, which focuses on remaining in Christ's love. It’s a message similar to the previous reading's themes of loving each other while always remembering that Christ is the center of our relationship. Chris and I strive to show each other Christ's love on a daily basis. We want to live every day loving each other as Christ loves us and to let our lives be an example of God’s love.

After re-planning our wedding three times, our day was much different than expected, but it was a beautiful celebration that kept things simple. It reminded us that the most important things in this life are our faith, our love, and our families. It helped us more deeply understand the importance of the sacrament alone. 

In spite of everything that happened, we believe God called us to marry each other, and his plan for us was more beautiful than any elaborate wedding we could have planned for ourselves. 

Photography: Emily Constance Photography | Venue - St Anne Catholic Church | Flowers - Divine Designs by Mandy | Cake: Laurie Jenkins (Family Friend) | Donuts: Dunkin’ Donuts | Dress, Earrings, & Veil: David’s Bridal | Tuxedos: Men’s Wearhouse | Hair and Makeup: Primp Hair & Makeup Studio - Guest book and invites: Shutterfly | Shoes: Amazon | Wedding and Engagement Rings - Moody’s | Videography Live Stream: Bound for Glory Productions