April 18th, 2020 has been circled in my calendar for months. It was going to be a huge gathering of friends and family to celebrate a beautiful and beloved couple, Kristen and Guo. These two put so much time and effort into planning their beautiful day, but everything came crashing down in March when the news came that weddings and gatherings had to be cancelled until the foreseeable future. It was devastating news for all the couples with spring weddings planned for 2020.
My heart breaks for all these couples as if the wedding was my own. We prayed for a glimmer of hope. Prayed perhaps for a miracle cure. As Kristen and Guo’s date inched closer, the idea of a Plan B wedding settled in as all those lovely Plan A ambitions faded away.
In a strange way, the timing of this wedding felt perfect. What better way to spread joy during such a strange and stressful time than to celebrate love? If you’re lucky enough to know Kristen and Guo personally, you would know that sharing joy and laughter with others is something they love to do, each and every day. Which is why we could feel that all their family and friends were with them in spirit throughout the day, even if they couldn’t be there in person (though their friends pulled off a physical distancing surprise at the end of the day!).
I just knew this day was going to be filled with heartfelt emotion (there were tissues hidden in the bouquet and dress!). From the cheerful first look to the personalized vows, each part of the day brought so much emotion with an abundance of happy tears, smiles, and laughter. While the current pandemic may have halted our ability to hug, high five, and celebrate together, it hasn’t taken away our ability to love and spread joy to those around us.
For this couple, April 18th won’t be remembered for elaborate decor in a lavish setting, but rather, will be remembered for the intimate celebration of their love and the offering of their union to serve God’s purpose.
Part 2 is to be continued… with more Guoisms, fun, and celebrations.
Featured in Canadian Bride Guide