Brittney + Billy | Downtown Classic Wedding

Brittney and Bill met through the scholarship program at their university, and met their future wedding coordinators through another wedding they both participated in. They exchanged vows  in the presence of friends and family from a variety of vocations, in rich jewel tones and a timeless, classic setting.

From the Wedding Coordinators:

We were fortunate enough to have coordinated a past wedding where Brittney was a bridesmaid and Bill was a ceremony musician. We had a strong sense that at some point after their college graduation, an official engagement was likely to happen….and it did! 

The program through which Brittney and Bill met focuses on preparing students for leadership in the Church, whether their vocation is religious life or found within being part of the laity. It was no surprise, then, that both of them would go on to take positions working for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis: she as Coordinator of Evangelization and Discipleship at a local Indianapolis parish and he as Pastoral Associate in a nearby small town. 

As they planned their engagement, we were so impressed with how their wedding focused on the Church. Concelebrating the Mass were several priests: the Director of Vocations for the Archdiocese of Indianapolis (the groom’s employer), the Director of Seminarians (the bride’s employer), and a Benedictine monk and professor from St. Meinrad Seminary. The wedding party included a novice nun and a former seminary student, plus several recently married bridesmaids and groomsmen, rounding out a beautiful example of the different vocations to which God calls us!

The morning of the wedding was clear and beautiful! The church, St. John the Evangelist in downtown Covington Kentucky, is a beautiful example of German Gothic architecture. For the Mass, the couple opted for a full worship aid-style program to ensure their guests all felt comfortable with the liturgy. 

From the readings that focused on our relationship with God and His with us, to the classical musical pieces, the wedding spoke to the spirit of each guest. The Communion hymn had a very special significance for the bride--it was the theme song for the liturgical leadership conferences where she’d served as an intern in the past. 

The reception was a classic event at the Madison Event Center, a beautifully repurposed Art Deco building in downtown Covington. The ballroom looked like a marvelous supper club from the 1930s, bringing out the wedding colors of gray and raspberry, with white florals and greenery.

This wedding was such a testament to how much fun a wedding reception can be when the bride and groom bring their personalities into the event. Both Billy and Brittney are zealous fans of The Office! They walked into the reception to the show’s theme song, and each of the toasts featured a quote from the show (which was completely unplanned!). 

The best part was the toast from Brittney’s stepfather, with revealed a surprise he had been planning for a while; a hilarious and heartfelt Cameo video from an Office cast member! The dessert table was another big highlight, featuring colorful donuts and macaron towers, Brittney’s favorite. The dance floor was packed all night long--so much so that we broke out our emergency sewing kit more than we have at another wedding! Bill and Brittney also opted for one of our favorite reception traditions, a foot washing ceremony where the new husband washes his bride’s feet in a gesture of humility and care. They closed out the wedding with a bubble exit, on the streets of downtown Covington underneath the streetlights.

Bill and Brittney’s wedding held so many of the elements that make us proud to be Catholic wedding planners. It was so full of joy, representing the future ahead in marriage as they experience the things that will help them bring each other to heaven. The representation from so many different vocations was a testament to how the Catholic community is meant to function. Clergy, professed religious, married couples, and single laity, all there to support the union of new marriage and creation of a family!

This wedding meant so much to us: the celebrating clergy and their connection to St Meinrad Archabbey, the bride and groom having been part of a previous wedding of ours, the wedding party containing bridesmaids and groomsmen that have been in other weddings we coordinated, and of course, the main celebrant being the spiritual advisor of our very own Something Blue Weddings….it just doesn’t get any better than that.

Nuptial Mass Location: Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Covington, Kentucky | Reception Venue: The Madison Event Center, Covington, Kentucky | Wedding Coordination: Something Blue Weddings | Photography: Adam and Keli Photography | Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal | Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Azazie | Men’s Formalwear: Louie’s Tux Shop | Florals: Swan Floral, Erlanger, Kentucky | Hair & Makeup: Refeyeance | Cake: Tina Turner Cakes, Union, Kentucky | DJ: Jeff Heidelberg of Party Pleasers, Cincinnati, Ohio

Rachel + Jeremy | Late Summer Roses

A love story that began in a second-grade classroom, anointed year after year by Our Lady’s grace and healing, fulfilled in a Christ-centered Mass and elegant, historic Midwest venue.

Rachel and Jeremy first met as children, in the same class at school for First Reconciliation and First Communion when Rachel transferred to the school. “The first memory I have of him is when he read for Mass in his tiny second-grader suit and tie during our First Reconciliation,” Rachel says. “I never imagined the Lord would make that moment the beginning of our love story.”

Flash forward to high school and college, when they became better acquainted through the teen ministry at their parish, each growing in individual relationship with the Lord as they passed by each other year after year. When Jeremy transferred to Franciscan University, where Rachel was attending, she invited him to dinner one night, knowing from her past experience of switching schools that the transition could be tough. “That one dinner turned into a weekly dinner, which turned into lunches, and movie nights, and game nights. By the end of the semester, we were closing out the dining halls and finding any excuse to spend time together,” says Rachel. 

Even before recognizing or admitting her feelings for Jeremy, she found herself drawn to his one-of-a-kind sense of humor, his intelligence and most of all, his utmost respect for the Lord and the desire for a relationship with Him.

From the Bride: 

When Jeremy first confessed his feelings for me, I was so surprised!

I had never been pursued by a man who willed my ultimate good. A man who loved me second because he loved God first.

I decided right then and there that before we took another step towards dating that I wanted to offer up our friendship to the Blessed Mother no matter what the outcome would be. Jeremy, being the man he is, supported this decision and we prayed together about what the Lord wanted for each of us.

Eventually, we received a green light from the Lord to begin a relationship. To say it's been a rollercoaster ever since is an understatement. We've experienced the highest of highs together, but have equally shared in the lowest of lows. We've had every adventure and can't wait for more. 

In the first year of our relationship, we consecrated ourselves to the Blessed Mother on her feast day as Queen of the Universe. We have such a love for her for all the ways she has interceded in our lives, and made it a practice to pray the Rosary often. 

We dated for four years before getting engaged and boy did the Lord bring us through ups and downs. But through it all, the Lord was good and faithful. He brought us together over and over, teaching us how to love like Him: how to apologize, and forgive, and laugh through the tears. He helped us grow year after year and nurtured our past wounds, bringing healing to each of us.

After four years that included long-distance dating, one break, and a lot of love, Jeremy popped the question. It might not sound romantic, but I’ll remember it forever!

We had booked an escape room with Jeremy’s sister and brother-in-law, Erica and Ben. About 50 minutes in, my competitive side was showing. To make it out of the room in time, one last question needed to be answered. “Rachel Marie,” Jeremy began, “Four years ago on this day was the first time I said I love you. Will you do the honor of letting me love you forever? Will you marry me?” Of course, I shouted my yes.

Thus began the exciting time of being engaged. We spent a lot of time preparing in different ways, mentally, emotionally but most importantly spiritually. We met with my Spiritual Director and our chosen Officiant, Deacon Tom Biegel, as well as with a mentor couple. Through all of those meetings Jeremy and I came to an even better understanding of and mutual respect for one another. We even made the decision to stop kissing 100 days out from the wedding, because--dang!--chastity is hard, especially when you’re so close to spending the rest of your lives together.

During our last month of engagement, we embarked on a novena I had always dreamed of incorporating into my wedding day. We prayed the 54-day Rosary Novena and chose to end it on August 22, the feast day of Our Lady Queen of the Universe--the day we had first consecrated ourselves to the Blessed Mother, and the day we had first chosen to one day get married. During the novena, the first 27 days are prayed in petition for a specific intention, and the last 27 days are prayed in thanksgiving.

This is what we prayed for:

For the binding, healing and forgiveness of all generational sin from the Fisher and Medina families and the sin we had brought into our relationship.

For our marriage and the building up of our souls as we were to become one with each other and one in Christ.

For our future children, for their sanctity and that they may follow the vocation God our Father calls them to.

On the 54th day, we prayed our final Rosary in a private Chapel just 30 minutes before saying our vows. It was such a precious moment to entrust the entirety of our relationship, our marriage, our future children and so much more into the arms of our Most Blessed Mother. She had done so much for us in our short lives and we were eager to invite her into the rest of what her Son was calling us to. Jeremy sat just one pew in front of me so that we could do a First Look--as I practically sprinted down the aisle to him.

Lastly, as we were about to say our vows, Jeremy picked up a beautiful San Damiano Crucifix. We had chosen a Franciscan crucifix because of how important of a role it had played in our lives at Franciscan University. We each placed our right hand over our Lord and made our vows to love one another as Christ had loved us.

When our officiant exclaimed the words you may now kiss the bride, Jeremy lowered his lips to Jesus on the Cross, and I followed suit. Then we shared our first kiss as husband and wife.

After the Mass had ended, we had requested that Deacon Tom set up the Chapel for a time of Adoration. For so long I had waited for this day, and I wanted Jesus to be the first person we spent our time with as husband and wife. It was absolutely perfect. 

As people filed out of the Church and made their way to the reception, Jeremy and I were in audience with Our King, thanking Him for bringing us to that very moment. After some alone time in Adoration, we opened the Chapel doors for any guests who wished to pray before Him. Afterwards, we hopped on our party bus and truly rejoiced in the rest of the day to follow. At each and every turn we wanted the Lord to be involved in our journey. 

Every moment we thought, how can we invite Him in even more?

Throughout our entire relationship, Jeremy and I have strived to keep our eyes on Christ. We haven’t been perfect by any means, yet each and every time we messed up, we helped the other run back to Him. It’s beautiful to see how the Lord had brought us from receiving our first sacraments together as children to receiving the Sacrament of Marriage. The Lord is a romantic! He had planned this from the beginning, and I am so excited to see how His story plays out in the rest our lives. He placed me here so that I could say yes to marrying my best friend, my love, my companion chosen for me on the journey home.

From the Photographer:

From the first phone call with Rachel and Jeremy, I could see how important their faith was to them. They spoke about all of the pivotal moments in their relationship where the Lord and Blessed Mother were so present, and how they were brought into their season of engagement.

When we met in person for their engagement session, they were close to starting their 54-day Rosary novena. It was the most beautiful thing to witness the final rosary of Rachel and Jeremy’s Novena on their wedding day and be a part of Adoration after their wedding mass. To see a couple so focused on getting each other to heaven was incredibly inspiring. They truly kept Christ the center of their entire wedding day from start to finish.

Ceremony Location: St. Gilbert Catholic Church, Grayslake, Illinois | Reception Venue: Upper East, Kenosha, Wisconsin | Photography: Colette M. Photography | Second Photographer: Annika Rose Photography | Videography: Rhys Ladhani Media | DJ: Silver Spoon Entertainment | Florals: Debbie’s Floral Shoppe, Mundelein, Illinois | Cake & Desserts: Culinary Infusion, Kenosha, Wisconsin | Bride’s Gown: Bon Bon Belle, Milwaukee, Wisconsin | Wedding Bands: Rolland’s Jewelers, Libertyville, Illinois | Makeup: Dina Forchione-Kloss of Embrace Your Face Artistry | Hairstylist: Tammie Retzke | Bridesmaids’ Attire: Azazie | Groom’s & Groomsmen’s Attire: Generation Tux

Megan + John

Megan and John became fast friends in college. John says he immediately knew Megan was the one for him, but was hesitant to risk their friendship. Once they started dating, it became evident the Lord was at work.

From the Videographer:

Absolute and utter joy. 

That’s the best way I could describe John and Megan’s wedding day.

Nothing says it better than when you see John’s face as his bride floats down the aisle toward him: laughter; tears; the sheer excitement and joy at the beauty of this moment.

Megan and John are a beautiful example of two people who are running together towards Christ, and their wedding film captures that story. I loved the words they wrote to each other beforehand--genuine, solid, and self-sacrificing. Their Catholic Nuptial Mass at the Newman Center in downtown Lincoln was an absolute blessing to capture, and I’m so thankful they asked me to witness and take part in their wedding day.

The entire was surrounded with prayer. I found John and his groomsmen sitting together and praying the Rosary before the ceremony. Megan and her bridesmaids shared a prayer together as well, followed by Megan and John’s own prayer time as a couple before the ceremony.. Seeing this couple and their friends take the time to pray in the middle of a hectic wedding day brought such joy and peace--this couple is supported by family and friends who are people of prayer.

One reception highlight was the mashup Megan’s dad, Dan, put together for their Father-Daughter dance, complete with the song “Dawn” from Pride and Prejudice (Megan’s favorite movie) and the theme from The Pink Panther.

One of my favorite moments was John’s reading a letter aloud that he wrote to Megan. Each and every part of both his and her letters was amazing, but the line I lose it at is this one. John said:

“As your husband, I promise to run with you towards Christ. And I know there will be times when that’s a challenge, but when those times come, I promise to put you on my shoulders and just keep running. We both know there will be times when I struggle, too, but I have no doubt in my mind that you’d carry me to heaven and back.”

And lastly, with the words, “It was through spending time with you that I learned so many things about myself,” I remember the exact reason I first fell in love with my husband! It’s a beautiful mark of a good relationship for so many couples, coming to better understand who they are and who God is.

I hope this film is a treasure for Megan and John in the years to come. To echo the words of John’s Best Man, “I can’t wait to see the love they’ve built be shared with the world!”

Nuptial Mass Location: St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center, Lincoln, Nebraska | Wedding Reception Venue : Starlite Ballroom, Wahoo, Nebraska | Videography: Victory Media | Photography: Mel Watson Photography | Florals: Abloom, Lincoln, Nebraska | Catering: ChefauChef, Lincoln, Nebraska | Rings: Nebraska Diamond | Bridal Gown: Beloved by Casablanca, via Blush Bridal | Bride’s Jewelry: JamJewels via Etsy | Hair & Makeup: College of Hair Design, Lincoln, Nebraska | Signage: Maggie Gillis, Love and Letters Company | Wedding Cake: Hannah McQuay, Tiers of Joy, Wausa, Nebraska | Cookies: Eileen’s Cookies | Cupcakes: Truly Scrumptious Bakery, Juniata, Nebraska | DJ: ARC Music and Entertainment, Lincoln, Nebraska

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

Rachel + Seth | Summer Country Club Wedding

A love from which Our Lady never turned her gaze, and a summer celebration with bright shades, military dress & starry surroundings.

During Rachel’s study abroad semester at Franciscan University’s campus in Gaming, Austria, Seth came to campus to visit his brother. They met, and the rest is history.

Rachel has a devotion to Stella Maris, Our Lady as Star of the Sea--it’s appropriate, and providential, that she and Seth spent much of their relationship long-distance, first as students, and later during Seth’s career with the Marines. Rachel later chose Stella Maris holy cards as a wedding favor. Distance and travel played a role in their engagement, as well: Seth proposed to Rachel on a private flight as they flew over a field with the words, Marry Me?

From the Wedding Coordinators:

Rachel and Seth’s wedding was visually captivating, with so many vivid colors and mixes of texture. The church, St. Gertrude Catholic Church in Cincinnati, is a modern-style sanctuary full of glossy black and bright gold features. The bride opted for saturated florals in hues of bright purples, pinks, white, with the occasional pop of red or peach for the bridesmaids’ bouquets. Her own bouquet was a stunning creation of predominantly white flowers, with touches of blush among the greenery. 

Rachel’s parish is staffed by Dominicans. The reverent nuptial Mass was concelebrated by two friars, one being Rachel’s parish priest and the other a dear family friend from the East Coast. 

Along with the parish organist and vocalist, Rachel’s good friend from Franciscan, including the Communion hymn, “O Come to the Altar”, followed by “Hail Mary, Gentle Woman” for the Marian Devotion. Seth and several of his groomsmen were in full military dress, which made it all the more moving for the couple to have a grand exit from the church through a military arch. 

The reception was held at Hyde Park Country Club, nestled in a lovely residential area in Cincinnati. To us, a country club reception, especially in the full bloom of summer, says understated elegance. The lush greens of the golf course made a beautiful backdrop to the setting, which gave the entire event a classic, refined feeling. The gorgeous chandeliers were draped with fresh greenery, blooms, and hanging candles. Bold centerpieces of vibrant late summer flowers made a striking contrast to the ivory tablecloth and gold chargers. Tucked into the ivory napkins were menu cards, along with a commemorative Stella Maris prayer card, from Santa Clara Design. 

In keeping with Rachel’s Italian heritage, a dessert table offered dozens of different kinds of homemade cookies, alongside a traditional white wedding cake. Seth and Rachel cut the cake with his military issue saber, which made for smiles and great pictures. They finished out the night with dancing and--of course--a Cincinnati tradition, Skyline Chili!

With all of the personal, family-centered touches like the homemade Italian cookies, the devotional wedding favors, and the sword cake cutting, so many pieces of Rachel and Seth’s wedding show the rich history they have behind--and ahead--of them. 

One of their wedding readings, from Sirach 2:2-11, reads that “you fear the Lord, hope for good things, for lasting joy and mercy.” Seth and Rachel’s wedding testifies that centering your big milestones around the foundation of your family and the cornerstone of your faith will always yield great good things of lasting joy and mercy.

Nuptial Mass Location: St Gertrude Catholic Church, Cincinnati, Ohio | Reception Venue: Hyde Park Country Club, Cincinnati, Ohio | Photography: Laura and Matthew Photography | Wedding Coordination: Something Blue Weddings | Florals: Oakwood Floral | Videography: Sweet Basil Productions | Makeup: Gregorie Styles | Cake: Weiss Baking Company, Goshen, Ohio | DJ: Marc Madama | Transportation: Jimmy's Limousine Service

Simberly + Reese | Houston Wedding with Hispanic Traditions

An interfaith Texas wedding showered with roses and brimming with family, cultural customs, and the presence of Our Lady.

On the anniversary of her dad’s passing, hearing his fatherly voice in her ear, Simberly finally agreed to take a leap of faith and go on a date with the cute guy she met online.

While Reese did not share Simberly’s Catholic faith, she could quickly see the Blessed Mother working in his life.

Once engaged, Simberly and Reese were able to find a Catholic parish that filled both their spiritual needs.

Their wedding day incorporated beautiful cultural traditions and even a surprise performance from the bride herself.

From the Bride:

I wanted to try out online dating but was hesitant about actually going out with any of the guys. Reese stood out to me from the beginning, and we went back and forth through messages and phone calls. 

After a few weeks, I kept making excuses as to why I could not meet him in person, just out of nerves. On July 17, 2015 he texted me to see if we could go out for drinks, but the day happened to fall on my father’s death anniversary. 

As I was getting ready to make up another excuse, a recollection came to mind. A few months before my father passed, I asked to go out with friends, and he said I could go as long as I promised that there would be boys present. 

I laughed it off and thought how sad that my dad was pushing me to go out and date. Looking back, I wondered: If dad knew this cute guy wanted to go out with me tonight, what would he say? 

He would probably look at me and say, “What are you still doing at home? Go.” I then responded, “yes,'' and went out on my first date with Reese that day, and a few years later he proposed to me on the same date. 

I felt like my father played huge a part in our meeting, and God found a way to turn such a tragic date into a bittersweet date. 

Reese grew up non-denominational, but has always respected my Catholic faith. So during our engagement, I prayed for us to find a parish that would meet both our needs. I was so worried he would never feel comfortable attending a Catholic church. 

After trying out a few, I thought we could try out a charismatic parish and halfway through the homily he leaned over and whispered that he wouldn’t mind making this our parish. I was so ecstatic and just remember praising Our Lord for working through him. 

Since then, he’s started picking up the Sign of the Cross and other little practices in the Catholic faith. Our Lady has been the biggest intercessor and she’s been present in our relationship since before we even met.

When Reese and I were first dating, he showed me a rosary that he kept. I was intrigued, but also confused because I knew he was not Catholic. 

I asked him about it and he told me that he found it on the side of the road one day while riding his bike. He picked it up and saw the cross at the end of the rosary and knew he couldn’t leave it there. 

It was a beautiful black wooden rosary with a heart in the middle. It was a little tattered and withered, but I had never seen a rosary like it. I smiled to myself and thought, wow. She’s already close to him, and he has no idea. 

I knew then that there was hope. His heart was so good that he personally chose to hold onto that rosary. Although the rosary didn’t align with his faith, it meant his faith was strong, and I could see myself with someone like that. 

There were of course times when we ran into rough patches, but I always tucked him and our relationship into my rosaries and our relationship strengthened year after year. 

Many of my close friends and family members that have been with us from the beginning have said that he’s changed so much since the day we met, and they are certain that the sacrament we received on our wedding day has only increased that. 

Reese has gifted me with rosaries, candles, and a painting of Our Lady of Guadalupe. To this day, her images can be found throughout our home, and I look forward to the day when I can tell my children all about her and how she played a huge role in our lives. 

The day of our wedding went by so fast it felt like a blur. The morning of, I got ready with my bridesmaids in the hotel room that was down the street from the church. 

Thirty minutes before the service, we all went over to change into our dresses, but after getting ready I realized I forgot my veil. I was so nervous, but luckily my mom was able to turn around and pick it up from the house. 

I was worried she wasn’t going to make it in time, that I was getting ready to walk down the aisle without my veil, but right before I was supposed to head out they called and said she just arrived. 

At the end of the ceremony, I was expecting the traditional, “You may now kiss the bride,” but it never came. I then realized that the service was over and that was the moment, so I quietly had to whisper to Reese that he could kiss me. It was definitely not how I expected that moment, but we were able to laugh about it after the fact. 

I was also very fortunate enough to have my great grandmother present at my wedding at 99 years old. She flew in from Mexico City and had never been on a plane before. 

When they were applying for her visa, the consulate asked why a woman of her age was requesting a visa. My aunts pulled out my save-the-date and said, “to see her great granddaughter get married in Houston.” 

The night before my wedding, she gifted me a beautiful white shawl known as a rebozo. She said it is customary for the bride to wear this on her wedding day and to use it as a swaddle when she has her first baby. 

When she placed it around me, she kissed me, and blessed me. It was one of the most beautiful and thoughtful gifts I had ever received. I was so grateful to have her there on my special day and will always treasure that memory. 

At the reception we had Mariachis, which is the norm at Hispanic weddings. I took classes when I was younger and used to sing at events, but stopped as I got older.

The last time I sang with Mariachis was actually at my father’s funeral, so I wasn’t certain if I would sing to my husband that day. 

After thinking about it, I decided to sing one song so that I wouldn’t look back at that moment and regret it. He had never heard me sing before, so he was completely surprised when he saw me go up with the Mariachis. It was definitely one of my favorite moments. 

After the Mariachis, we shared our first dance. When Reese and I met, he was not a dancer. My family and I are avid dancers, so throughout the years I took the time to practice with him. 

We started with salsa and worked our way backwards, so our first dance was a simple waltz, and he was absolutely perfect. After our first dance, I spent the majority of the night dancing with him and our guests. 

At one point we paused the dancing for the maid-of-honor and best-man speeches. We also took a moment to say a prayer for deceased family members, especially the recent passing of my grandparents. We had a table set up with photos of them to know that they would be there with us if they could. 

Three days before my wedding, both of my grandparents passed away. My grandfather had passed first, and my grandmother followed shortly after. 

It came so suddenly, and since it was in El Salvador, they scheduled the funeral right away which fell on the same day as my wedding. Throughout the entire day I was receiving messages of consolation from some and congratulations from others on my marriage. 

I really did not know how to react to it happening so suddenly. Unfortunately, many of my family members from my father’s side were so heartbroken with their passing and some flew out to El Salvador for the funeral. 

Others just couldn’t muster up the energy to attend my wedding because they were in mourning, and I had to respect that decision. I know some people actually expected me to cancel or postpone the wedding, but it was too late. 

Everything had been finalized so we had to move forward knowing that half of my family would not be present that day.

Despite the tragic news, it was comforting to know that my grandparents love for one another was strong and that they were both resting in peace. 

My spiritual takeaway from the day was the more you let go and let God, the less disappointments you will have.

Photography: Best Moments Productions | Nuptial Mass Location: St. Anne Catholic Church, Houston, TX | Reception Location: Pine Forest Country Club | Groomsmen Attire: Al's Formal Wear | Bridal Attire: Brickhouse Bridal | Rings: Jared | Floral Design: 2Cool Flowers | Cake: Susie’s Cakes

Ana + Alex | Marian Shrine Wedding

Rich fall colors balanced with soft blush tones and gold accents create a portrait of elegance, exceeded only by the resplendence of the setting for their nuptial union.

When Ana and Alex first began to plan their wedding, they kept coming back to two things: their God and their people. 

They wanted their marriage celebration to mirror the wedding feast of the Lamb and witness to the true communion between heaven and earth. 

Under Our Lady’s tender gaze, the awe-inspiring atmosphere of their nuptial Mass fittingly pointed to the heavenly banquet to which each one of us is invited.

From the Bride:

Alex and I have friends and family all over the globe, and so we felt so honored and excited to bring so many of our favorite people together in joy. 

We wanted this day to serve that authentic communion as much as possible.

Even more so, we are so grateful to God for all that He is and all that He has made for and in us! 

God has worked so much in our relationship up until our wedding, and we cannot deny that our love is a gift straight from Him.

Reflecting back on our wedding day, my advice to other brides and grooms is to stay centered on each other and your love! Be gentle with yourself and trust God in the details and in the process. 

You do not have to have it all together before this big day. The flowers don't have to be perfect; you are probably going to break out a little bit (or like I did—a lot!); and our hearts do not have to be perfectly prepared in the way we think they should be. 

There is a wedding feast far greater than anything on this earth. Keep your eyes locked on Christ.

From the Photographers:

Did you know you could get married at a national shrine? We didn't until we had the honor of photographing Ana and Alex's wedding at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa! 

It was a day filled with family and friends, and the ever tender and watchful eye of Our Lady. The shrine was frequented by the brides' family who had a special devotion to this favorite Marian image of St. John Paul II.

Prayer was woven in every part of the day, from getting ready all the way through to the reception.

A significant host of priests concelebrated and bestowed blessings from both the bride's home parish and the couple's alma mater, Franciscan University.

Joy and elegance were in no short supply as the wedding party made their way to the reception.

Guests were met with details such as exquisite florals and—our personal favorite—an artist live-painting the reception space. 

With such a vibrant couple, it is no small surprise that this wedding ended with a massive celebration on the dance floor. It started with a Queen and ended with the Saints (Who Dat?).

Photography: An Endless Pursuit | Nuptial Mass Location: The National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, PA | Whitemarsh Valley Country Club, Lafayette Hill, PA | Videography: Emmaus Films

Grace + Hunter | Classic Christmas Wedding

A cozy and easygoing celebration filled with the colors, joy, and merriment of the Christmas season, with nods to the couple’s football fandom.

What started as a friendship based on a college-football connection, ultimately led Grace to the Catholic faith—and both she and Hunter to a Christ-centered marriage.

Grace and Hunter faced the challenge of preparing for their wedding during COVID-19, but they found comfort in God, the saints, and their beloved home parish.

Surrounded by their dearest family and friends, the couple made a point to incorporate meaningful details into their wedding in memory of loved ones who have passed to eternal life.

From the Bride:

Hunter and I met on Twitter, of all places, in 2016 through our mutual fandom of Tennessee football. We started out as friends and shared a deep love of Christ. 

We became engaged in December 2018. Hunter shared his Catholic faith with me, and I finalized my conversion to the Catholic faith in April 2021. 

I selected Saint Brigid as my patron because in learning about her life, I felt a kinship to her. And also because we both feel so blessed to be members of a wonderful parish that bears her name. 

Hunter is a cradle Catholic, and I have enjoyed learning so much about the faith with him. One of our favorite things to do together is review Franciscan Media's “Saint of The Day,” and we are always so inspired learning about these wonderful saints and their lives

God was definitely in the driver's seat for our wedding due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We learned quickly we were not in control. 

We ended up having a small, intimate ceremony with some of our closest family and friends. 

Deacon Tom, who celebrated our wedding, did a wonderful job getting to know us through our Pre-Cana marriage preparation process and made sure that the homily was personalized and filled with humor. 

Hunter and I are both members of Saint Brigid and absolutely adore our parish, so it was very special to get married there. 

My mom and my sister personalized my dress topper and made the sash I wore on my wedding day.

Unfortunately, both of my grandmothers have passed away, so I honored my maternal grandmother by carrying her rosary wrapped around my bouquet as my something borrowed, and I had my paternal grandmother's brooch pinned to my bouquet as my something old. 

Both my paternal grandmother and my beloved late step-grandmother were of Scottish heritage, so we honored both of them with the tartan accents at our wedding. 

I surprised Hunter with a memorial table and arrangement to his late mother including pictures of the two of them together and her favorite flowers. 

My maternal grandmother was from Ecuador, which is known for its roses, so I made sure my bridal bouquet featured Ecuadorian roses.

Our journey to our wedding day taught me to accept the things I could not change and to trust in God.

Photography: Cooper and Co Photography | Nuptial Mass: St Brigid Catholic Church, Johns Creek, GA | Reception Venue: Naylor Hall, Roswell, GA | Bride’s Dress: The Sample Shoppe by White Magnolia Bridal | Rings: Solomon Brothers | Caterer: Loyal Q Barbecue | Cakes: Henri's Bakery | Floral Design: The Flower Post | DJ & Photobooth: Club Rett | Rehearsal Dinner: Roswell Provisions | Stationery: Calligraphy with Style

Mariah + Ben | Timeless Summer Wedding

A late July wedding filled with simple but meaningful details, a soft color palette, a multitude of family and friends, and the unmistakable peace of the Lord.

During her senior year of college, one of Mariah’s best friends turned to her and said, "I really want you to be part of my family… so you're going to have to marry my brother, Ben." 

The idea of dating her friend's brother was absurd for a number of reasons. To begin, he was younger—and he also happened to live in Grand Rapids, MI, while she lived in St. Paul, MN. 

Not to mention, she had her eyes on someone else. 

When the marriage was initially suggested, Mariah laughed, but five years later she would be doing just that.

In the meantime, as they entered the workforce, both Ben and Mariah began wondering when their future spouses were going to show up.

From the Bride:

About four years after his initial suggestion that I marry his brother, my good friend Rob gave my Snapchat (yes, I know...Snapchat) to Ben and our friendship began. It started with simple, fun snaps back and forth. 

Then it became more about sharing our days with each other, and we began talking on the phone. Finally, after a few months, we decided to meet, not for a date, but just to hang out. 

We met at a seminary of all places. Our matchmaker was currently in formation at Mundelein which was about halfway between us. 

We spent a couple of days walking the campus, making dinner with Rob, and just talking. It was wonderful. 

We left that weekend truly happy. However, neither one of us was convinced that this was it. 

Unbeknownst to each other, we both told the Lord, "Your will be done," and felt completely free. We kept talking—and snapping—and just a couple of days later, Ben simply asked "Will you go on a date with me?" 

A couple of weeks later, I hopped on a plane to Michigan for our first date. I stayed with Ben’s family and enjoyed every moment of my time with him and his family. 

I left that visit as Ben's girlfriend. We only did long distance for three months before Ben packed up and moved to Minnesota. And only three months after that, we were engaged.

It sounds simple and in a way it was. The Lord gave both of us the grace to trust in His will completely. 

As doors opened, we walked through them without fear or doubt. There weren't any major signs of God's will, but the peace we felt was all that we needed. This was what God wanted.

That peace continued throughout our wedding day. Walking down the aisle towards Ben, standing on the altar, making our vows. I had peace through it all. 

This peace allowed us to truly embrace that we were there to give ourselves completely to each other in the presence of God and His Church.

The very first thing we did when planning our wedding day was to reserve the Church. After that, I set out to find my dress. 

I knew I wanted something classic with lace. The general feel we wanted for our wedding was classic, elegant, and timeless. So, I wanted my dress to reflect that as well. 

I tried on quite a few until finally I picked one. However, I woke up the next morning in a panic realizing this was NOT the dress I wanted to wear. The bridal boutique was amazing and let me come back and find a new dress. 

The moment I put on my dress, I knew this was it. I loved how I looked in it. I knew it was timeless. I knew Ben would love it.

For every detail outside of the Nuptial Mass, we strove for simple elegance. We wanted softer colors so went with a slate blue, blush, and gray for our main colors. 

One of my favorite fun details were my and the bridesmaids’ shoes. I chose a unique pair of TOMS for each bridesmaid that I felt reflected their personality.

We have a number of mementos from our wedding day. Ben and I wrote letters to each other to read right before the Nuptial Mass.

I received a small purse from my aunt which was made from the fabric of my grandmother’s wedding dress. 

My grandmother passed away when my mom was only seven years old. Each granddaughter receives such a purse on the day of her wedding. 

It was a gift I had been looking forward to receiving for many years. It was such a beautiful way to feel connected to her.

Our primary goal when planning our wedding day was to make it utterly clear that the highpoint of the day was the nuptial Mass.

In our effort to make the Mass as beautiful and solemn as possible, we asked our presider, Fr. Rob, to chant most of the Mass parts. We were also allowed the use of incense throughout Mass. 

The music, the incense, the chant, all of it engaged every sense and brought us deeply into communion with our Lord.

There were a couple of details that Ben and I chose for our nuptial Mass that were very important to us. First, we chose to memorize and recite our vows. 

Our intention behind this was that our vows were something we wanted to remember every day for the rest of our lives.

Years and years later, we wanted to still be able to recite our vows to one another as clearly as we did on our wedding day. To help us memorize them, we each read them every night of our engagement. 

The second detail we chose to include was to make our vows while holding a crucifix between our hands. We wanted this because we wanted to remember what our vows meant: that we were laying our lives down for one another. The love we want to strive for is the love of Jesus Christ. 

A third detail we included was to have our Godparents bring forward the gifts at the offering. We wanted to include the people who had been present at the moment we became children of God.

Ben’s brother, Fr. Rob, gave the homily at our nuptial Mass. In his homily, he shared:

“It is a crazy thing for Jesus to say to us, ‘I want to share an adventure with you. One shared with joys and sorrows, struggles and victories. One filled with life and full of love. I want to suffer for you. I want to live for you, and I want to die for you. I want to love you today, tomorrow, and forever. I want you. I choose you.’” 

He then shared, “I said that these words were from Jesus, but actually these words were written by Ben to Mariah.” My heart was flooded with love and gratitude as I realized he had just shared the words Ben had written to me the day he proposed. 

Realizing that I had been given a man who was intent to love me as Christ loves me was one of the most poignant moments of my wedding day.

One of our great hopes for our wedding day was to have as many of our friends and family with us as possible. We chose to cut our budget in other places in order to manage this. 

We had a beautiful hall which was located at the parish I worked for. We chose a simple, but delicious, caterer, and my maid of honor’s husband did all of our floral arrangements. 

I love flowers, especially peonies, and he made my vision come to life beyond what I had imagined. With the help of friends and family, our wedding reception was beyond what we’d hoped for.

The Lord blesses us when we trust in Him. On the day of my wedding, I looked into the eyes of my groom and promised him everything. He in turn promised me everything. 

How are we able to make such extraordinary promises? Most certainly not on our own. I could not make such promises to my husband if I did not trust in God and His grace. 

That day and all the days since, I have lived in trust that God will continue to give us the grace to live our marriage vows each day. I trust that He will help me to be faithful and loving. 

We trust, and He blesses us.

The joy and peace of our wedding day remains because the joy and peace of that day comes from the love of God and our love for each other.

Photography: Jaimie Lauren Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church, St. Paul, MN | Reception Venue: Mother Seton Hall, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Hastings, MN | Bride's Ring: DeVries Jewelry Store | Bridal Boutique: Diamond Bride | Bridal Gown: Colby John | Floral Design: Nicholas Buseman | Catering: HyVee Catering | Bride's Hair: Cole's Salon | DJ: Harmony DJ (Josh McClure)

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

Jillian + Dalton | Stella Maris Styled Shoot

A Marian inspired styled-shoot, with elegantly combined celestial and nautical details, perfect for classic and coastal venues alike.

As Catholic wedding coordinators, Mary Dorhauer and Joy Foster of Something Blue Catholic Weddings always dreamed of creating a styled shoot with a Catholic theme. 

Their vision for a wedding dedicated to Our Lady, Star of the Sea, reflects the sacredness of marriage and the beauty the Lord has destined for us all in our eternal home.

From the Stylists and Coordinators:

As a Catholic wedding professionals, we occasionally straddle an unusual line between trendy pinterest/instagram wedding culture, and the dignified, spiritual side of wedding planning that is the sacrament of marriage. As wedding coordinators, we aspire to help Catholic brides and grooms to make sure they strike the right balance of both. 

Beauty is of heaven, and the Lord is the ultimate beauty, therefore, there is nothing wrong with a desire to have your wedding and photos reflect beautiful things! 

And of course, marriage is a heavenly rite and a mirroring of the Blessed Trinity, and should be treated with the utmost respect. 

It was truly a blessing to be able to create photos that reflect both aspects of a wedding, and to be joined by professionals who share a similar passion to ours; to help couples have the happiest, holiest, and most fulfilling wedding experience that they can create!

We love styled shoots because they’re such a wonderful opportunity for vendors to practice their craft and show off their creativity, without having to worry about the typical boundaries of what is practical for a wedding.

One of the first things we did for this shoot was to select models. We knew right away that we wanted to feature a married couple because there is no substitute for the love between a husband and wife, and we wanted that tenderness to read on camera. 

Jillian and Dalton, a local couple who were married in October of last year, were such an accommodating and charming pair, and really captured the romantic spirit we envisioned for the shoot. 

The theme we chose for our shoot was “Stella Maris—Star of the Sea.” We knew we wanted a Marian theme so that our shoot was automatically dedicated to the Blessed Mother, and chose “Star of The Sea” after reading a prayer penned by Pope St. John Paul II:

“Pray that we will never fail on life’s journey, that in heart and mind, in word and deed, in days of turmoil and in days of calm, we will always look to Christ and say, ‘Who is this that even wind and sea obey him?’ Our Lady Star of the Sea, pray for us.” 

Working from our theme, we crafted a palette that was neither celestial nor nautical, but an elegant combination of both; gold and cream (inspired by the celestial heavens) with accents of rich deep teal and navy (inspired by the sea). 

Our goal for the shoot was to subtly weave in both the sea and sky into every aspect of the shoot, while still creating a luxurious and classic aesthetic. 

The bridal bouquet, created by Eufloric Events, was a vibrant and rich confection of whites, blues, and greenery, with a hint of ocean foam brought in through dusty miller leaves. The gown, provided by Rouge Bridal Boutique, has a simple, flowy silhouette that highlights the grace and poise of our bride. 

For hair, provided by Laura Snyder, and makeup provided by Abby Prather, we opted for a soft and romantic look in order to reflect the natural glow of the night sky.

For our detail shots, we selected a few carefully curated items including a pair of pale seafoam blue bridal heels, a star-inspired perfume bottle, and pearl jewelry (provided by Rouge Bridal boutique). 

Our bride’s rosary, a pale green and pearl, is made from reclaimed seaglass, while our groom’s rosary, silver, is crafted from recycled fishing materials. We also wanted to support small Catholic businesses as much as possible, and featured a Stella Maris print from artist Jen Olson, and a candle from Stella Maris and Co. in their Matrimony scent.

We brainstormed for several weeks while we looked for the perfect location for this shoot, and in the end, we settled on The Allison Mansion on the west side of Indianapolis. It’s a beautiful and historic manor house on the grounds of Marian University. 

We loved the Allison Mansion because of its affiliation with a Catholic university, and—perhaps more importantly for a photo shoot—it’s opulent architecture! Built around 1911, this venue features cream colored marble, a grand staircase, hand carved leather walls, and a beautiful stained glass skylight. 

We were also fortunate enough to be able to shoot at the beautiful St. Mary’s in downtown Indianapolis, the very church in which our models were actually married last year!

The invitation suite and programs, provided by Eileen Adams (owner of Noteworthy Expressions), were a bold and upscale addition to our shoot. Eileen worked with us to craft a custom invitation suite featuring that deep teal we love so much, celestial touches, and an image of St. Mary’s that tied our two locations together beautifully. 

The menu card featuring the traditional meal prayer added a definitive Catholic touch to the formal table, which we styled with an ivory cloth and teal napkins, white and gold china, crystal wine glasses, and champagne hued flatware. 

The table was graced with a natural garland that coordinated with the bridal bouquet, incorporating blue candles and standing gold stars amidst the greenery to complement the elegant place settings. 

The vibrant cake, a small round creation by Taylor Made Cakery, was painted with swatches of blue and gold… and tasted as good as it looked!

Perhaps the most important part of the entire project was selecting our photography team. We were so excited to team up with not just one, but two talented photographers with extensive experience in Catholic weddings. 

Simple Heart Photography features a vibrant and bright style that tastefully captured the autumn colors of our outdoor portraits. Colette M Photography, a new addition to the Indianapolis area, produces a light and airy style perfect for the natural light and marble surroundings of The Allison Mansion’s aviary. 

Additionally, we were thrilled to be joined by Dylan Lee Videography, a husband and wife team who helped us capture the highlights of our shoot on film.

Overall, the shoot was exactly as we envisioned. While the vision of the shoot evolved as we added vendors and details, the final product fit in exactly with our company’s tagline; timeless, romantic, and thoroughly Catholic!

Photography: Colette M Photography

Photography: Simple Heart

Styling & Coordinators: Something Blue Catholic Weddings | Photography: Simple Heart Photography and Colette M Photography | Church: St. Mary's Catholic Church, Indianapolis, Indiana | Reception Venue: The Allison Mansion at Riverdale, Marian University | Gown & Jewelry: Rouge Bridal Boutique | Hairstyling: Laura Snyder | Makeup: Abby Prather | Floral Design: Eufloric Events | Rentals: A Classic Party Rentals | Cake: Taylor Made Cakery | Stationery: Noteworthy Expressions | Videography: Dylan Lee Videography | Models: Jillian Conrad and Dalton Kloeker

Sierra + Patrick | Family-Centered TLM Wedding

A classic summer wedding in shades of blue, filled with faith, tradition, and big band swing dancing.

Sierra and Patrick met at Czech Hall, through mutual friends from the Newman Center, where Patrick asked her to swing dance.

They courted for a year before getting engaged on their one year anniversary.

Throughout their courtship, engagement, and the start of their life as husband and wife, Sierra and Patrick kept their faith in Christ as the firm foundation of their life together.

From the Bride:

Patrick proposed on our courting anniversary after Saturday morning Mass in the church where we would eventually get married.

He went down to genuflect and didn’t get back up. 

We had a betrothal ceremony two weeks later and an eight-month engagement. Patrick and I decided to celebrate our wedding in the tradition of the Solemn High Latin Mass, and said our vows on the crucifix we now have in the center of our home.

There is no better way to start off your lifelong journey with your best friend when you have God as the center of your life. Patrick and I tried to emphasize that throughout our wedding day and relationship.

From the Photographer:

I met Sierra through going to Church at Saint Benedict. We have been friends for over 10 years and have attended various mission trips and retreats together. 

After their engagement, Sierra and Patrick had a betrothal ceremony, during which the couple solemnly pledges to marry one another and becomes officially engaged in the eyes of the Church. 

They received a priestly blessing for their engagement and Sierra’s engagement ring was also blessed! It brought the couple many graces and started their marriage on a solid foundation.

Sierra and Patrick celebrated the sacrament of marriage with a Traditional Latin Mass. In this tradition, the Rite of Marriage happens at the beginning, and is followed by the Mass.

They intentionally planned their wedding to honor God, bless their loved ones, and to make their day memorable. They brought the crucifix that would hang in their new home and said their vows over it. 

They shared their first kiss ever right after their ceremony. It was the perfect way for them to celebrate their new life as husband and wife! 

Appropriately enough, the reception was held in the place Sierra and Patrick first met, with a big band, where they had originally enjoyed swing dancing together. 

While they started their first dance slowly, the band then went crazy and the newlyweds quickly transitioned to a choreographed number. They enjoyed seeing the reactions of their parents and guests to this epic first dance.

The foundation of their marriage and the most important part of their day was incorporating their faith. It was incredibly special to them to be able to truly focus on what mattered most to them for their wedding day!

Photography: Constance Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: St. Damien Catholic Church, Edmond, OK | Reception Venue: Czech Hall, Yukon, OK | Catering: Interurban | Cake: You Need a Cake | Floral Design: Kristy’s Flowers & Gifts and the Center of Family Love | Bride’s Dress: Bella Rose Bridal

Ingrid + Martin | City Glam and Multicultural Traditions

A celebration rooted in community with cultural traditions, a luxe NYC setting, and marriage lived out as mission.

Ingrid and Martin met through Frassati Fellowship, a Catholic volunteer community in New York City. They grew close and fell in love as they worked together planning missions to Peru and Jamaica. 

As they planned their wedding, they sought to invite their guests into the rich community life they’d found in the city, and into the mystery of sacramental marriage. 

In the original cathedral of New York City, celebrating with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, they bore witness to the beauty of the Creator and to their respective heritages.

From the Bride:

Now, more than ever, Martin and I feel so lucky to have been able to have our wedding before everything changed [due to COVID-19]. We really loved having a more intimate wedding by traditional standards, but now we know what a luxury it was to have a wedding with over 100 guests in New York and can’t imagine what couples are experiencing now.

We chose Old Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in SoHo for our wedding Mass. Not only had we done much of our volunteer work there, but the historic landmark has an incredible sanctuary with vaulted Gothic arches, stunning stained glass windows, and an 1868 Henry Erben Pipe Organ. The organ was played during the Mass and the music was led by some of our close friends from the Franciscan Friars. 

The rich music combined with the splendor of the space created for us and our guests a sublime setting where one couldn’t help but be filled with awe and joy. Exchanging vows at the altar will be a moment we will both forever treasure.

We have so many favorite memories from the day; it’s hard to pick just a few. Our wedding captured the reverence and solemnity of marriage but also the pure joy and bliss of a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. 

If I had to pick my favorite memories, they would have to be when Martin turned around during our first look (I cried) and, of course, walking down the aisle with my father.

When we were walking down Mott Street in SoHo, everyone was so friendly when people saw I was in a wedding dress--the drivers didn't even honk when we stopped traffic!

Also, we loved giving our favors--they were custom-made capiz shell votives sourced by my Tita, which is “aunt” in Tagalog, and hand-carried by my mom all the way from the Philippines. I also loved dancing with my niece Isla on the dance floor and being hoisted up on chairs during the reception.

Finally, we loved [all of the personal and cultural details we were able to include in the day]. From the custom invitations, the ceremony programs, the Spanish trio that played at our cocktail hour, the hand-painted escort cards, and all the décor. 

It was incredible to see all the aspects of the day woven together to create such a beautiful experience for us, our families, and our guests. Guests shared how it was both the most beautiful ceremony they'd ever seen plus some of the most amazing food they'd ever had at a wedding. For us to get compliments covering both the spiritual and reception aspects of the spectrum was incredible.

From the Wedding Coordinator: 

The overall design for the wedding was based on Ingrid and Martin’s Filipino and Peruivian backgrounds and incorporated their favorite color, blue--which also showed reverence for Mother Mary. They complemented the deep blue shade with mauve and tan--beautifully fitting for a fall celebration.

The Nuptial Mass included the Filipino traditions of sponsors for the wedding candle, wedding lazo (lasso), and arras (coins). Ingrid and Martin also had a pair of rosary rings blessed during the Mass that belonged to Martin’s mother. They now wear them on their right hands and on mission trips.

Both the Philippines and Peru are known for their textiles, so we pulled inspiration from these nations’ native dress for the attire. To complement these elements, we included natural details like Filipino capiz shells. 

Ingrid wore a romantic dress by Watters and a custom veil. One of my favorite details of the day was her navy velvet Manolo Blahnik heels; they made a beautiful statement against her ivory gown. She also wore her grandmother’s earrings and carried a capiz shell clutch from the Philippines. 

Martin wore a midnight blue pin dot tuxedo and shoes by Jimmy Choo. He also wore mother-of-pearl cufflinks that Ingrid’s mother had purchased in the Philippines. 

Ingrid asked her flower girls to choose a floor-length dress within the color palette, instructing them to pick something “that made them feel beautiful.”

The cultural significance extended to florals, which contained spray garden roses, ranunculus, dahlias, anemone, chrysanthemum, foliage, lisianthus, Lunaria, and privet berries. The bridal and bridesmaids’ bouquets, corsages, and reception centerpieces contained café au lait dahlia, anemone, Jasmine vine, garden roses, and Lunaria, some of which are grown in the Philippines and are very special to Ingrid’s family. The cream, mauve, and soft honey tones matched the season and the elegance of the day.  

The reception in a Little Italy restaurant, with its warm brick interior, exposed kitchen, and dramatic high ceilings, made the gathering of 113 guests feel like one big family dinner. Watercolor imagery and gold accents on the stationery complemented arrangements of vintage bottles and vases on each table, with custom votives and gold candlesticks. The votives were given as favors at the end of the evening.

In place of a traditional guest book, Ingrid and Martin asked guests to sign a beautiful coffee table book about sacred spaces that they'll display in their home. 

Photography: Laura Rose Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, New York, New York | Wedding Reception Venue: Gelso & Grand Restaurant, New York, New York | First Look Venue: The Ludlow Hotel, New York, New York | Wedding Planner & Designer: Desiree Adams of Verve Event Co. | Videography: Filmwell Studios | Bridal Boutique: Our Story Bridal | Bride’s Gown: Shiloh by Watters, Style 3004 | Bride’s Shoes: Manolo Blahnik | Veil: One Blushing Bride | Bride’s Stole: Oscar de la Renta | Flower Girl Dresses: BHLDN | Flower Girl Crowns: Fancy Girl Boutique | Matron of Honor Dress: Jenny Yoo Logan Velvet Dress for BHLDN | Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo Malia Dress for BHLDN | Getting Ready Robes: Jenny Yoo Isabella Robe | Ring Bearer Suit: Appaman | Ring Bearer Shoes: Converse | Floral Design: Ephemera | Groom’s Suit: The Black Tux | Groom’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Groom’s Tie: Tie Bar | Hair Stylist: The Drawing Room, New York, New York | Cake: Pip ‘N Bits, New York, New York | Wedding & Engagement Rings: Tiffany & Co. | Makeup Artistry: Glam Squad | Stationery: Louelle Studio | DJ: Ambient DJs and Greg Hollmann

Abigail + Robert | Downtown Coastal Wedding

A journey of trust and certainty & a family-centered celebration with cool, dusty shades mirroring the Carolina coast.

When looking back on their first meeting in college, Abigail and Bobby both say it felt as though they already knew each other. They began dating after several months of friendship, and Abigail shares that “After dealing with drama outside the two of us, Bobby sat me down and told me he loved me, before we had been on a single date. 

“That night changed everything. We knew quickly after we started dating that we were meant to be, but the next few years of college would put our relationship through many hardships.”

They frequently prayed side by side in Adoration, adopting Saint Joseph as a patron for discernment and purity. “Kneeling side-by-side with him after receiving the Eucharist always gave me such a deep feeling of peace,” says Abigail.

As time passed, however, personal realizations led to a breakup that ultimately lasted six months. Leaning on Our Lady’s intercession, Abigail and Robert both sought growth and clarity, and cautiously began communicating once again. “[I felt hopeful], but still scared of being hurt,” Abigail says. “Bobby proved to me in big ways that he was serious about making us work, no matter what it took. He won back my trust and my heart--which he’d always had.” She secretly anticipated a Christmas engagement, but Robert proposed the following weekend.

From the Bride:

We wanted our wedding day to feel true to us: something special and elegant, but also comfortable and familiar. When choosing the church, we tried to get into the Basilica downtown. When the downtown basilica in our area wasn’t available, we chose to marry at my childhood parish. God knew exactly what he was doing leading us there. The same parish I altar served in as a girl, prayed countless times within, the parish that formed my spiritual connection to the ocean (it is situated right on the beach), and the one my boyfriend-soon-to-be-husband and I attended with my family every time he visited. There really was no better place for us to get married. We did end up choosing the event venue across the street from the basilica for our reception.

The combination of a small beach parish with a rich downtown hall could not have captured our personalities and hobbies better.

With it being a February wedding, the weather could have gone any which way, so I chose colors that were cool but coastal. A dusty blue, gray, and champagne made up the main color scheme, with a lot of creamy white incorporated. Our flowers were gorgeous blue hydrangeas with ivory spray and garden roses, along with succulents that also served as the groomsmen's boutonnières, which were wonderfully masculine. My husband looked so handsome in his gray suit!

Ring shopping is a cherished memory of mine. I remember Bobby really wanted something traditional. He tried on gold bands at first, but they just didn't feel like him. So he really took his time, considering different metals and styles. He settled on a white gold band with a nice edge that looked classic yet modern. It looked so handsome on his hand, and the amount of thought and care he put into choosing it really touched me.

Going dress shopping was a sweet occasion. My mom made me promise not to choose a dress at the first place we visited, because there would be plenty of options. With me were my Mom, my little sister, my aunt, and my cousin. The first place was a local boutique. The dresses I tried on in the style I’d envisioned for myself were not as flattering as I hoped. The second dress was more princess-looking than I wanted, but once I saw myself in the sparkly bodice, all I could think about was how I wanted Bobby to see how special I felt! After trying on more, I put the second one on again with a veil. As I looked in the mirror, my Mom came up to me and whispered, I think you should just get this one! It is still one of my favorite memories.  

Another favorite memory involved my earrings. We were having the hardest time finding the right pair, and eventually brought home two. I wanted my Something Blue to be visible (there was a blue ribbon on my garter as backup). One pair of earrings had a blue stone, but wasn't sparkly enough to match the dress. The other pair was sparkly, but without any blue. My mom eventually found the most beautiful, unique earrings with a light blue stone. They were the perfect accessory to match the dress! My Something Borrowed was a second pair of diamond earrings, which were my mom's--a nice little sparkle behind the show-stopping new ones!

As neither Bobby nor I are "party people", we decided a morning wedding and lunch reception fit us best. Our signature drink was mimosas! The reception was catered by old family friends. Barbeque chicken and homemade sweet potato chips are the two things I remember most.

Our wedding Mass was planned with great care. Bobby's uncle and godfather presided, and a family friend of ours was the Deacon who assisted.

We chose the readings very carefully. I wrote a paper on Tobit in college and was beyond touched by the love story. I had Tobiah and Sarah’s wedding night prayer taped to a "Purity Box" I made in high school.

We chose the Wedding at Cana for the Gospel, because I had lit a candle for us in Washington, D.C. under a mosaic of that mystery when our relationship was at a difficult point. Ephesians was incorporated because it wove together the Genesis account but also stressed important truths about the self-sacrificial role of the husband and wife to make a holy marriage. 

We had a big wedding party to incorporate Bobby's ten younger siblings and my three. The ringbearer, Bobby's godson, had our purity rings tied on his pillow. In Bobby's breast pocket, he had a bonnet I wore when I was baptized. In my shoe, I had a penny my Mom had placed in her shoe on her own wedding day for luck.

We love coffee shops, so we set up a coffee bar at our reception, complete with personalized coffee sleeves. We had a Willow Tree cake topper that reminded us both of ourselves in our early days of dating. And for our first dance, the song was "Without You Here" by the Goo Goo Dolls, because we felt it captured the deeply spiritual (often dramatic) nature of our relationship and efforts to finally be together.

Our little brothers surprised us with a joint toast that we desperately wish we had recorded. Our getaway car was featured a sign my sister drew for us and beer cans my dad had collected when he was a boy. We drove away with "Counting Stars" by OneRepublic playing on the car speakers!

Several guests shared that they felt like they had been invited into an intimate look at our love and relationship. That reception hall was full of so much love, it was overwhelming.

On our wedding day, we could both see our blessings as we witnessed the power of prayer and God's will being done. He knew we were meant to be together and made it happen. 

Not only was our wedding day a beautiful culmination of the prayer and work it took to help us reach the occasion, but also a well of grace to keep drawing upon as we entered our marriage. We are so loved, and so blessed to have been born into strong Catholic families that helped us approach this sacrament with this respect.

Photography: Susie Linquist Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: St. Therese Catholic Church, Wrightsville Beach, NC | Reception Venue: The Upper Room 1871, Downtown Wilmington, NC | Wedding Rings: Perry’s Emporium | Engagement Ring: Kay Jewelers | Bridal Gown: The Wedding Dress Shoppe | Bride’s Hair: Hunter Barnes of Freedom Salon | Bride’s Earrings: Design by Kara, via Etsy | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: David’s Bridal | Groomsmen’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse | Catering: Milner’s Cafe and Catering, Wilmington, NC | Cake: Pink Baking Co., Wilmington, NC | Floral: Fiore Design House, Wilmington, NC | Table Settings, Lighting, & Rentals: L&L Tent and Party Rentals, Wilmington, NC | Décor: Hobby Lobby, Amazon

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

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

Mary + Dominic | Traditional Italian-American Cathedral Wedding

From the Bride

As healthcare professionals in a pandemic year, my husband and I fought to make our marriage happen. There were so many obstacles during 2020, but we knew immediately who to entrust our hearts to: the Blessed Mother. 

She had brought us together through years of prayer, trial, and sacrifice, and she would see us through to the altar to profess our lifelong love and commitment before God.

You'll see in our pictures the continual appearance of my rosary. It was the same rosary I held on a pilgrimage to Fatima in 2017, when I begged Our Lady of Fatima to bring me the husband God intended for me. Just months after, I met Dominic. And there was no better sign that Mary had chosen him for me than his profoundly Marian name.

It was incredibly important to us to celebrate a traditional Mass with sacred music. It would act as a prayer of thanksgiving for Our Lady and her Son bringing us to our wedding day. 

We chose musical pieces that have stood the test of time, namely "Sicut Cervus" by Palestrina and "Cantique de Jean Racine" by Gabriel Faust. I processed down the aisle to "Oh God Beyond All Praising," in gratitude to the Father for the gift of our marriage.

I had my beloved brother, a seminarian in the Diocese of Alexandria, walk me down the aisle. He has always been a father figure to me, and as he led me to the altar, it was like a symbol of what was to come upon his ordination: him leading his future parish flock to their Shepherd.

Since both of our families come from the Mediterannean coast (Italy and Malta), we decided to have a Almafi Coast-themed reception, complete with lemon trees and garlands of olive branches and rosemary herbs. 

And yet, our love for America is strong, and we also included not-so-subtle hints of our patriotism for this great country--including our gorgeous national monuments cake.

No matter how extravagant your wedding, you'll feel close to your spouse in a way you've never felt before. For me, it was an amazing and shocking realization of the beauty of the union between husband and wife. And how meaningful it becomes when you welcome your faith into your marriage. 

One of the most memorable moments of our wedding day was when a guest took us aside and said they had never witnessed a holier, more sacred Mass. They saw it as an unmistakable symbol of our love for each other and wished they could find the same sanctifying love in another.

I felt like I began to understand the complexities of the sacrament of marriage. 

God is the source, and marriage is an earthly testament of His love for us; a reflection of the love we will experience with him in eternity.

Photographer: Claudia Oliver Photography | Nuptial Mass Location: The Cathedral of St Matthew the Apostle, Washington, DC | Reception Venue : Woodend Sanctuary | Caterer: Main Event Caterers | Floral Design: kate & lilly floral design | Hair and Makeup: Perry Warren Hair & Makeup | Music: The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Schola Cantorum