Brooke + Scott | Whirlwind Pandemic Wedding

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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

 
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Gretchen + Peter | Autumn in Baltimore

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

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

From the Bride:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

From the Groom: 

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

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

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

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

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

Mary + Dominic | Traditional Italian-American Cathedral Wedding

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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.

Alexandra + Aidan | Baltimore Basilica Pandemic Wedding

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

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

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

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

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

From the Bride

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

Related: How He Asked | Alexandra + Aidan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Melissa + Santiago | Intimate Maryland Pandemic Wedding

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An intimate wedding garnished with red and white roses and a romantic simplicity that highlighted the love between husband and wife.

Melissa and Santiago’s wedding was not the grand affair they had originally envisioned. A couple months before their nuptials, an unforeseen global pandemic, and the social restrictions that followed, forced them into a place of discernment and uncertainty. 

In a tremendous act of trust, they placed their wedding into the hands of the Father, and in the end, Melissa says “we rejoiced in the simplicity of our small and intimate wedding day.” 

From the Bride: 

Growing up as a child of divorce, the vision I inherited of marriage was very different from that of the children I knew whose parents were married. I grew up in two separate households, seeing my dad on the weekends and having a full-time mom. 

Throughout the years I faced various obstacles and challenges, but I’m thankful my mom was faithful to her Catholic roots and instilled many Catholic values into my upbringing. One thing was certain, if I ever entered the sacrament of marriage, I knew I didn’t want to put myself or my children through a divorce.  

Related: Embracing Marriage as a Child of Divorce

I had long started my journey of healing past wounds when I met Santiago, and I actually thought I was doing pretty great. I realized, however, that God continually challenges us to grow and purify ourselves. A few months after our engagement, my mom encouraged me to attend a retreat for Adult Children of Divorce. The retreat was a huge blessing for Santiago and I. It was there, after more than a decade, that I was reunited with Fr. Dan Leary, a priest from my adolescent youth group. Fr. Dan quickly became an integral part of preparing Santiago and I for marriage. 

At the beginning of quarantine, we were hopeful things would get better. As we got closer to the wedding date, we realized our plans would have to change. The more we were stripped of the worldly desires we envisioned for our wedding, the closer we were drawn to surrender and trust. 

Those days were a purification process similar to the earlier stages of our marital preparation. Santiago and I grew even closer during this season as we discerned whether to postpone or keep our wedding date. I went through every stage of grief and was on a roller coaster of emotions, but these moments called me back to the sacrament of confession (thank God for drive-in confessions!) and to cling on to prayer. 

As we grappled with the idea of having to postpone, God redirected our focus to the core of what brought us together in the first place: keeping God at the center of our lives. Despite the circumstances and tremendous change of plans, we rejoiced in the simplicity of our small and intimate wedding day. 

In retrospect, attending that retreat was truly Divine Providence. The first time we asked Fr. Dan to officiate our wedding, he was already booked for May 16th. After the unexpected turn of events, we celebrated the sacrament of marriage at his parish with him as our officiant (he also  photobombed our pre-wedding prayer picture). 

As he said during our wedding homily, “It’s a perfect day to get married in the midst of a virus. Why? Because what overcomes the virus is love. What’s crippling so many people is fear. They’re afraid, but when you see love it reminds you that it is the only thing that lasts. God does not identify himself as fear. He identifies himself as Love, and the only emotion, the only virtue, the only reality that exists at the end of time, when you are before God, will be one thing: love. You’re injecting love into a culture that’s afraid. You’re injecting love into people that need to see it.”

We’re living in very heart-wrenching times. And yet God is present in our pain, in our sufferings, and in our brokenness. He calls us to seek and find him in these moments. He calls us to not lose faith and to trust in his plans, for they are far greater than ours. 

There is growth to be found in every season of life, and through it all God knows what he’s preparing us for.   


Abby + Zack | Gold-Dusted Country Estate Wedding

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On a fall day in Maryland, in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, Abby and Zack were joined in the sacrament of marriage. Their photographer describes the love and spiritual devotion of this couple, surrounded by bridesmaids in deep blue and exuding supernatural joy.

From the Photographer: Abby and Zack met and fell in love at Mount St. Mary's University. Before and after they were married, they spent countless hours in adoration and weekly confession. Together, they read and discussed the daily readings with one another and established a routine of prayer. These habits brought them closer to each other. After their engagement, they planned a traditional Catholic Mass with Marian hymns to pay tribute to the Blessed Mother. 

Every aspect of their wedding day reflected the couple's deep devotion to their faith and to each other. You could feel the Holy Spirit moving throughout the ceremony and later at the reception as they danced the night away. 

After the wedding, Abby and Zack travelled to Rome for their honeymoon, and on a cold and rainy morning in November, they waited in line at the Vatican to catch a glimpse of Pope Francis. A few hours later, they met the pope and held his hands in theirs as they asked him to pray for their marriage. It was an unforgettable moment, and now they always remember to pray for Papa Francesco!

As the photographer, I was in awe of the beauty of the Mass and inspired to think deeper about my own nuptial Mass. Abby and Zack put so much thought into the readings and hymns that it was impossible not to experience the presence of Christ during the liturgy. They brought their rich prayer lives and the beauty of the sacrament to life for their guests, and it was beautiful to be part of such a marriage of souls.

Photography:  Alex Krall Photography | Nuptial Mass: Mount St. Mary's University Immaculate Conception Chapel | Wedding Reception Venue : Springfield Manor | Florist: Tiara McCowen @fiddlestixflorals | Day of Coordinator: Tiara McCowen @fiddlestixflorals | Hair: Kelly’s Hair Artistry @kellyshairartistry | Makeup: Elise Rizzo @lise.marie_ | Caterer: Carriage House Inn | Dress: Sincerity #3987

Mercedes + Davide | Traditional Mexican-Italian Baltimore Wedding

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Mercedes and Davide, both first-generation Americans, incorporated many family traditions into their wedding day to create a unique celebration of culture and festivity. 

Their respect and love for the dignity of the marriage sacrament is evident in their story, as they learn to listen to God’s will and find harmony in their different temperaments. In the end, Mercedes reflects that they are not isolated in their vocation; they are surrounded by the love of family, friends, and the eternal communion of saints.

From the Groom: Mercedes and I met in June 2015 as we walked with our young adult group to a pub in downtown Baltimore. It was after evening Mass on a Sunday. Our first glance was filled with charm, and our first chat was intriguing, because an introspective and cautious introvert (me) was attracted to an outgoing, enthusiastic extrovert (Mercedes). 

On our first few dates, I learned we had both been brought up as first-generation Americans, and we shared a similar family structure. We both lived lives that spanned two cultures, and that helped us feel uniquely and mutually attracted.

I began to realize, however, that we communicated in very different ways. I started to feel the first fire of attraction die down within me, especially when I felt confused and unable to express myself adequately. But in empathy, true love, and hope, we listened to the voice of God and found ways to understand each other in communication. We came to appreciate each other's humanity and unique traits, and from the day we met, our appreciation and admiration of one another has steadily grown.

I tell Mercedes all the time that I was ready to marry her in October of 2017 when I was in search of a ring. Instead, I proposed in March of 2018 on the grounds of Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Fallingwater, after five months of preparation and prayer. That day, we declared our love for each other and our willingness to pursue marriage.

We were overjoyed to call and notify family about our engagement, and they have certainly helped support our relationship. Yet our relationship with God, the author of marriage, was always very important. Through prayer and the sacraments, Gold keeps our marriage holy and stable. In addition, our love and empathy for each other provides fuel for us as we move forward in Christ.

Mercedes and I believe deeply in the sacramental institution of marriage. This was clear as we recited our vows during our nuptial Mass, which closely reflect the "three matrimonial goods" described by St. Thomas Aquinas: to be open to children and raising them in the Catholic Church, to be faithful and always act in the best interest of our spouse, and to create a new spiritual unity with each other through God's grace.

From the Bride: Dave showed me he was a thoughtful, patient, generous, and dedicated man from the moment we met. When I knew he was the one I wanted to marry, I also knew I would most likely have to move wherever he got a job. Along with two friends, we started to pray for the intercession of St. Joseph in our lives. We were all discerning marriage in addition to career changes in order to be closer to our future spouses. While things didn’t move terribly fast, we are all happily married now and in good jobs. 

Dave proposed on March 10, the day the novena to St. Joseph began (unbeknownst to him), and my women’s bible study hosted a surprise engagement party for us on his feast day. Even though we don’t have a special devotion to St Joseph in our marriage, I know he is a steadfast guide and counselor in our vocation, and I have a special place for him in my heart.

Living in Baltimore, we found community and spiritual nourishment at the local parish, Saints Philip and James Catholic Church, which is run by the Dominican friars. We were blessed to have attended multiple weddings for dear friends there, and knew that once we moved to Philadelphia, Baltimore would still be the place we wanted to get married. 

The lovely mosaics, tall stained glass windows, and high-arched ceilings made the church breathtakingly beautiful and helped make Mass the focal point of the day. Elizabeth, our photographer, captured some of my favorite elements, such as the large crucifix by the Marian shrine and the dome over the altar. It was special to share this church with so many friends and family who traveled for our wedding day.

Looking back, the nuptial Mass was my favorite part. It felt like it was just Dave, myself, and the priest for most of the ceremony, especially during the consecration, because we had kneelers facing the altar directly.

We recently attended another wedding at Saints Philip and James parish, and hearing them make the same vows on the same altar was a powerful reminder that our marriage is supported by the whole Church. We made our vows along with thousands of other Catholics striving for holiness in this vocation.

Dave and I chose to incorporate a variety of traditions into our wedding. In addition to wearing my mom’s wedding gown and veil, which my aunt helped modify, I wore jewelry that belonged to my grandmother and carried my great-grandmother’s rosary around my bouquet. My matron-of-honor carried this same rosary around her bouquet at her wedding as her “something borrowed”. 

During the wedding Mass, we were joined under a wedding lazo (lasso), a traditional practice in Mexico and many other Spanish-speaking countries. It symbolizes the unity of husband and wife under the protection of the Church and their joint responsibility in living out their vows. We were blessed to use the same lazo my parents had at their wedding almost thirty years ago.

At our reception, we served Italian confetti at the dessert table, which is sugar or chocolate-coated almonds with various flavors. On a recent trip to visit family in Italy, Dave and I picked out bomboniere (wedding favors) with his mother. We selected wooden trivets that looked like potted flowers which can be displayed on a small stand. There were so many that it almost filled an entire room in their basement! My aunt also brought traditional papel picado (decorative tissue paper) from Mexico, which she customized with our names and other expressions of love. Altogether, they made our reception venue beautiful.

Looking back, our entire wedding day was filled with the love and support of so many people. Many of our family members flew in from abroad, and we know our grandmothers who live abroad (two who are 93 and one who is 88) made the greatest effort to be present that day. My mother and mother-in-law dedicated themselves for many months to make the wedding beautiful and helped with every aspect of planning. My father gave a beautiful speech in three languages that made several guests cry! My cousins helped as day-of coordinators and brought fun accessories for the dance floor. 

Our group of Catholic friends from Baltimore curated a prayer calendar for us, which now hangs in our kitchen as a reminder that we have people praying for us. They offered us sage advice, joyful encouragement, and gladly partook in the ceremony as readers and ushers. Our florist, Emma, is a close family friend who owns an amazing floral design company in the city. She was able to source giant coral peonies for my bouquet, and the colorful bouquets and centerpieces were everything I dreamed they would be. Elizabeth, our photographer, was a connection through the Catholic community in Baltimore and has captured meaningful moments for many close friends. 

In some way or another, loved ones gave of their time and talent, and it moved us deeply. We had so many guests that we struggled to make our way to every table during the reception. Everywhere I turned, there was another face who was there not just for the wedding day, but to give us love and support for our future as a married couple. I ran around giving hugs and high-fives and dragging people to the dance floor, and I still feel the joy to this day.

I knew I could never marry someone who didn’t love the movie “My Big Fat Greek Wedding.” The main character, Toula, comes from a loud, crazy family that yells over each other, cooks big meals, and throws great parties. In many ways her Greek immigrant family resembled my Mexican family and the group of friends I grew up with. Additionally, Dave’s Italian family certainly knows how to feed large amounts of people and bring family together for big celebrations. 

Growing up, I loved this movie, and I always imagined my wedding day would be something like it: a dizzying day full of tradition, love, big families, and intense emotions. It is safe to say our wedding was very much like that. And even now, some nights before bed, I look at our wedding photos framed on the wall, turn to Dave, and quote one of the last lines Toula says in the movie: “Sometimes I’m afraid that it didn’t happen…but it did happen! It did!”

Likewise, the greatest takeaway from our wedding is that we did not enter into this sacrament in isolation. 

Just as we were able to incorporate family, cultural traditions, and heirlooms into our celebration, the nuptial Mass itself included readings and vows that are used by many other Catholic couples. We were blessed to enter into marriage surrounded by family and friends, and we are reminded through their love and support that we are supported by the universal Church and the community of saints, who desire fruitfulness and holiness in our marriage.

Photography: Elizabeth M. Photo | Church: SS. Philip an James Catholic Church, Baltimore MD | Reception Venue: The American Visionary Art Museum, Baltimore MD | Flowers: Steelcut Flower Co. | Catering: Zeffert and Gold | Cake: Sugar Bakers Cakes | Stationary: Printed with Catprint | Hair and Makeup: Heather from Brushed Beauty LLC | Bridesmaids Dresses: Revelry | Necklace: The Little Catholic | Rings: Brilliant Earth and Robbin’s Diamonds  | Suit: Men’s Warehouse (Calvin Klein) | Ties and Pocket Squares: The Tie Bar | Bride's Dress: mother's dress

Beth + Nick | Ethical Fair Trade Wedding

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The date is set, church arrangements have been made, and you are about begin deciding the particulars of your wedding with your fiancé. While taking steps to make it a truly Catholic ceremony, consider using the occasion not only to serve your guests, but a larger community of people in need.

Beth and Nick’s inspirational nuptials proves that a Catholic wedding can be beautiful, ethical, and respect the dignity of the human person through every step of the planning process.

Discover how they combined both the sacramental beauty of their wedding day with their passion for Catholic social teaching.

From the Photographer (An Endless Pursuit): “We knew when we got engaged that we wanted to live out our faith in a really special way. Not only did we want a Catholic ceremony, but we wanted to choose vendors and services that were ethical and/or local, when possible,” said the bride.

It is no surprise that Beth and Nick would plan their wedding to reflect their passion for Catholic social teaching. Serving the community and supporting those in need has always been a priority for this couple. Committed to living the faith through helping the poor and disadvantaged, both bride and groom held roles in homeless and prison ministries even before they met and were engaged.

Beth is co-founder and current co-director of the The StarFish Foundation, which provides education and support services for at-risk youth in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

“We realized that we would feel a little better about spending so much money on various wedding costs if we could feel confident that the people who made our items and delivered our services were paid and treated fairly,” she explained.

After quite a bit of research, the couple was able to find companies and vendors that fed their zeal for social justice with missions that stressed the dignity of the human person. The bridesmaids’ dresses and the mother of the bride’s dress were all made by Mata Traders, a company that partners with fair trade organizations in India and Nepal.

“The Mata Traders team worked with everyone’s sizes and my color preferences to recommend different options for dresses, helping me to determine quantities, availability and more,” Beth said. As for her own dress, the bride chose to work with bridal dress shop Celia Grace and was able to know exactly who made her dress: a father of four living in India. The Celia Grace team also helped Nick to find ties for himself, his groomsmen, and the father of the bride through their network of ethical fair trade vendors.

Beth and her bridesmaids were covered in fair trade goodness from head to toe. The bride, mother of the bride, and bridesmaids all sported Rothy’s: comfortable, classy shoes made from recycled water bottles. “If you’re not familiar with Rothy’s, you should be! I literally wear mine everyday—to work, on hikes, out with friends—everywhere” Beth gushed.

The couple chose their rings from Brilliant Earth and Aide-mémoire Jewelry. “When it comes to jewelry, taking an ethical path was so important. Many diamonds are made in conflict zones in Africa,” said Beth. “Having worked on many social justice issues over the years as a way to live my Catholic faith, I knew that [a traditional diamond] wasn’t an option.”

Beth also gifted her bridesmaids with jewelry steeped in meaning from The Starfish Project. The jewelry designer is changing lives of exploited women by educating and training them in sustainable, positive careers. Likewise, before the ceremony, Nick gifted Beth with a beautiful bracelet from Purpose Jewelry, an organization that gives hope to women who have been subjected to human trafficking.

Beth and Nick also made sure to shop local for many of their vendors as a way to support the Baltimore community they love. Their cupcakes were made by Flavor Cupcakery, which Beth encountered in one her many service roles.

“Years ago, when I worked at a homeless shelter in Baltimore, the owner reached out and offered to bring enough cupcakes for all 500 residents the day before Christmas Eve. It was such a special experience. We knew we wanted to support this local business on our wedding day.”

Local Color Flowers is a florist in Baltimore that sources local and seasonal flowers and gives their clients a unique experience. They guarantee the color and style of your flowers, but the exact type will be a surprise on your wedding day. “The team guided us in the process, learning all about our wedding so they could select flowers that really fit our personality and the vision of the wedding,” Beth said. “They did a fantastic job, and the surprise element was really fun for us.” As a bonus, the centerpieces provided were herbs that guests could take home and cultivate.

Beth and Nick’s wedding is a witness of how the love between two people can expand to love of their fellow man. Using your wedding budget to support ethical treatment of workers and honest business practices is something to consider. It elevates the worth of those who are working to ensure your wedding day is nothing less than incredible.

“Overall, we wanted to ensure our guests had a great time, but we hope they also shared in the joy of supporting ethical, local, and fair trade organizations,” said the bride.

Beth and Nick’s passion for upholding the dignity of the human person has made me wonder if ethical and fair trade weddings should be more of a trend in the world of Catholic nuptials.

They hope to inspire brides to consider where they source their decorations and vendors, because even a wedding budget can affect change in the lives of so many people.

Photography: An Endless Pursuit | Videography: Laurentina Photo & Video | Church: Catholic Community of South Baltimore | Wedding Reception Venue : Rusty Scupper | Day of Coordination: Kaitlyn Harrison, coordinationco.com | | DJ: Kevin Remaley, Rockin' Remaley, rockinremaley.com | Hair & Makeup: Down the Aisle in Style, baltimoreweddinghair.com | Flowers: Local Color Flowers, locoflo.com | Cupcakes: Flavor Cupcakery, flavorcupcakery.com | Bride's Dress: Celia Grace, celia-grace.com
Bridesmaid's Dresses: Mata Traders, matatraders.com | Bridemaid's Jewelry: The Starfish Project, thestarfishproject.com
Bride's Gift from Groom: Purpose Jewelry, purposejewelry.org | Bridal Party Shoes: Rothy's, rothys.com | Rings: Brilliant Earth, brilliantearth.com, Aide-memoire Jewelry, aidememoirejewelry.com

Jessica + Brian | Classic Winter Manor Wedding

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Jessica and Brian met at college in 2010. At that moment, they had no idea that seven years later they would walk down the aisle and enter together into the sacrament of matrimony.

It only took a couple months of dating to realize their mutual desire for marriage, but different career paths and an uncertain military schedule kept Jessica and Brian apart. This only grew their desire to be united in marriage, and Brian finally proposed to Jessica in March 2017.

On a magical, snowy day in a beautiful chapel, the happy couple celebrated a winter wedding.

From the Bride: Brian and I both attended Mount Saint Mary’s University and were both business majors. We were in some of the same classes during our freshman year, but we didn’t meet until sophomore year in September 2010.

Brian introduced himself after my presentation during one of our business classes, and we spent some time together that weekend. We became quick friends, but he wasn’t looking for anything more than friendship at that time. As for me, I was open to the possibility of a relationship! So we continued to spend time together as Brian prayed and reflected about our future.

Three months after we met, he gave me a letter conveying all he had reflected on and asked me to be in a relationship with him. After only two months of dating, we knew one day we’d be husband and wife.

Over the next six and a half years, our love steadily grew through attending weekly Mass, praying together, and sharing countless memories.

We also identified our lay vocations and began our careers. As Brian started his time in the Marine Corps and I pursued a career in finance, we were separated for months at a time. This transition was extremely challenging, and I leaned heavily on prayer as I learned to trust in God’s plan.

Being separated by geography and Brian’s irregular schedule taught us not to take our relationship for granted. In March 2017, he proposed to me on the front steps of Mount de Sales Academy, my alma mater.

As we began planning, Brian and I wanted our wedding day to be centered on our love for God and each other. And we wanted each of our guests to feel this love coming through every detail.

Our celebrant, Father Thomas Haan, had been Brian’s college lacrosse team chaplain, a close friend and spiritual guide throughout our relationship. He celebrated our nuptial Mass on a beautiful, snowy December day at Mount St. Mary’s in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.

This was our favorite part of the day: the nuptial Mass and exchange of vows. As Catholics, making a commitment to God and each other in front of our families and friends was very important to us.

We also felt blessed to have our families involved in our wedding day in big ways. Brian’s aunt made the invitations, and my loving godparents provided my entire wedding ensemble. My godfather bought my veil, headband, and dress, and my godmother made my faux fur shawl.

Everything put together made me feel truly beautiful as I married Brian.

From Elizabeth, the Photographer: Shooting a lot of Catholic weddings, I hear a lot of homilies. But every now and then one of them forces me to stop and listen instead of moving around the church wondering what shot I should capture next.

Father Haan nailed it for Brian and Jessica! There was something so personal about his sermon. It was evident that he knew the couple well, and that he and Brian had a great relationship.

He highlighted how the Lord favors their union, specifically through the Blessed Mother's constant intercession for them.

Brian was born in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, and Jessica developed a strong devotion to Our Lady in high school at Mount de Sales Academy. Both Jessica and Brian chose to attend Mount Saint Mary's University. Then on December 9, one day after the feast of the Immaculate Conception, they were married in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at Mount Saint Mary's.

Father explained that it wasn't a coincidence their faithfulness to the Lord and his Blessed Mother was made visible in their union as husband and wife.

It was beautiful.

Photography: Elizabeth M Photography | Church: Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at Mount Saint Mary's University (Emmitsburg, MD) | Reception: Springfield Manor (Thurmont, MD) | Make-up: Autumn Estelle | Hair: Erica Noccolino Thorowgood | Bride’s Veil: Mon Cheri, purchased at The Bridal Boutique | Bride’s Headband: Morilee, purchased at The Bridal Boutique | Bride’s Dress: Stella York, purchased at The Bridal Boutique | Rings: King’s Jewelry, Alexandria, VA | Bride’s Shoes: Tieks by Gavrieli | Bridesmaids Dresses: Dessy, purchased at The Bridal Boutique | Caterer: The Carriage House | Cake/cupcake baker: Kupcakes &; Co. | DJ: Jack Seghetti | Planning: Ida Rose | Flowers: Shelly Black Custom Floral | Videographer: Jon Sham

Becca + Phil | Christmas Picnic Wedding

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In the past, Becca and Phil had both discerned religious vocations. By the time they both felt ready to date and pursue marriage, they met online. Becca shared in her profile that her dream man wouldn’t be unlike Ebeneezer Scrooge’s nephew, Fred, in A Christmas Carol.

A few days later, she received a message from Phil, sharing that he was an actor currently playing the role of Fred. Their conversations began flowing nonstop. One week later, they met face to face, and began officially dating the following month on the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, who has since become their patroness.

From the Bride: We both knew pretty quickly that this was serious and we began to talk about marriage and family a few months in. During our courtship, we, who are both teachers, were both directing theatre shows at the same time that I was working and in grad school. Through all of the hectic scheduling and stress, we were still able to support each other through prayer and were able to attend every one of each other’s events.

After our engagement, things were crazy: I got a new job, Phil took on summer work to help with our expenses, and we decided to do all of the wedding planning ourselves. Yet through it all, there was so much growth and so many insecurities in us uncovered, so many new steps taken in our faith and so much joy shared in the chaos. With every step, we were extremely blessed. So many times we thanked the Lord for someone who was willing to help us or do something for the wedding for manageable rates. God continued to pull people out of the woodwork that consistently blessed us with financial gifts, emotional support or practical help. The Lord was so present there with us, and our celebrant and Pastor, Fr. Dan Leary, was a vital part of showing us or leading us into God's presence.

We got engaged at the Seton Shrine in Emmitsburg, Maryland, a place rich with meaning for us. We both feel very devoted to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and still visit the Shrine often. During our dating and courtship, we prayed the St. Andrew Novena and Fr. Michael Gaitley’s 33 Days to Morning Glory Consecration to Mary. We followed that with Fr. Gaitley’s Consecration to Merciful Love. Right before our wedding, we wrote a novena that included all of our patrons.

The Mass was the most important part of planning for us. Though we were frequently told we needed to focus more on reception items, attire, or favors, both of us felt strongly that the Mass shouldn’t be on the back burner. We wanted the day to be focused on the sacrament and desired that the Mass would draw our friends and family closer to the Lord and the Church.

As musicians ourselves, the music for the liturgy was very important to us. We were blessed by eight of our close friends singing as a choir and by 3 priests who concelebrated the Mass. The liturgy opened with "Jesus, All for Jesus" and ended with "God, We Praise You," because this was the reason we decided to get married: to offer ourselves as a gift to God, to do His will, love Him and love each other.

The readings were from Song of Solomon 2:8-10, 14, 16; Psalm 34, Romans 12 and John 17. Fr. Dan's homily was focused on the reality of the sacrament, not just the symbolic gesture. His theme was 1+1=1, which quickly became our wedding hashtag. He focused "this body, broken for you" and our sacrifice for one another, in flesh and spirit. One of the most moving moments of the Mass was during the Communion meditation, set to the song "Even Unto Death" by Audrey Assad. It was, and is, our continued commitment to God and each other. There was a great witness during that moment that has been echoed by several of our guests, some of whom are not even Christians. We are confident that their testimony is the fruit of prioritizing the liturgy above everything else.

The day was full of trust and peace. We both took the morning pretty slowly and enjoyed some quality time with friends and in prayer. The celebration itself was also pretty simple. Because we paid for most things ourselves, we kept expenses to a minimum.

We used the December Christmas season to our advantage, calling our reception our "Christmas Picnic". We used chalkboards, biodegradable snow, white lights, curtains, pine and holly to decorate. We used pine and cedar disks as centerpieces, with lanterns on top. Phil even built a s'mores bar where guests could roast marshmallows. The meal featured picnic items: sandwiches, salads, lemonade, and chips, followed by hot chocolate, tea, hot cider and coffee. The casual theme allowed for a peaceful and fun atmosphere, where everyone could really relax and celebrate.

My dress was a beautifully unexpected choice. I went shopping with ideas in my head, but ended up with something totally different than I’d originally imagined.

At the reception, people continually came up to us raving about the ceremony. That was so wonderful after our frequent prayers that our Mass would be the focus of the day.

Despite cake getting on both of us (Phil had asked me not to, but some seminarians sitting by the cake pressured me into it at the last minute!), we were both overjoyed. We made lots of rounds to see everyone and remember the reception flying by. It truly was everything we thought it would be.

It was truly so meaningful as Catholics. The Mass was a milestone and because I'm a convert, it was so beautiful putting the whole thing together and seeing every part's meaning; the intention behind every word and motion. Our day was so special because the highlight, truly the "source and summit" was the Mass, the Eucharist and the sacrament of Matrimony. Having almost 200 people there to share this amazing occasion was so overwhelmingly beautiful and moving. We feel so blessed by Fr. Dan, by our family and what our wedding was and is for us now.

Photography: Amy Leigh Horan Photography http://www.amyleighhoran.com/ Church: St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Emmitsburg, Maryland | Reception Venue: Thurmont American Legion, Thurmont, Maryland | Engagement ring by Wholesale Diamond Consultants: http://www.wdc14k.com/, Flowers by Freesia & Vine: https://favflowers.com/, Invitations designed by the Bride and printed by Vistaprint: https://www.vistaprint.com/?rd=1, Decor Rental by I Do, You Do Wedding Decor Rentals: http://www.facebook.com/idoyoudo.wedding.rentals and Freesia & Vine: https://favflowers.com, Catering by Wegman's: https://www.wegmans.com/, Bride's dress from I Do I Do: https://www.idoidoweddinggowns.com/, Bride's veil from Your Heirloom Veil: https://www.etsy.com/shop/YourHeirloomVeil, Bride's shoes from Cinderollies: https://www.cinderollies.com/, Bride's jewelry from Lizardi Bridal: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LizardiBridal, Bride's fur bolero from Meshka Bridal: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MeshkaBridal, Groom and Groomsmen tie clips from SiBelle Jewelry: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SiBelleJewelry, Bride's Ring from Pompeii3: https://www.etsy.com/shop/Pompeii3, Groom's Ring from Manly Bands: https://manlybands.com/, Groom's suit, tie and shoe, and groomsmen ties by JcPenney: https://www.jcpenney.com/, Cake baked by Kelly Clabaugh, Fairfield, PA; Bride's makeup by Kim Sykes, Mary Kay Rep; DJ by Greffen Audio Visual: https://www.facebook.com/Greffen-Audio-Visual-232231706827995/; Reception Coordinator: Linda O'Brien, Mass Music provided by local musician friends, Cake Topper by Momo Rad Rose: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MomoRadRose

Elise's Wedding | The Big Day!

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Our Social Media Coordinator, Elise Crawford, married her college sweetheart Hunter, on August 12! We're overjoyed for them and are thrilled to share their wedding day with you today as Elise concludes her series of wedding reflections. Join us in congratulating and praying for Elise and Hunter as they begin their life together!

I know it seems cliche, but Hunter's and my wedding day was a taste of heaven! As stressful as the weeks and days leading up to the wedding were, I was so blessed to feel calm and present on our big day. There was so much preparation and effort on both sides of our family to make this day happen: we had an aunt who hosted family from out of town, my mom and sister were with me running errands and ticking of my to-do list and friends flew in to town early to help with preparations. We felt so completely surrounded with love and support!

We were told in the months leading up to our wedding that the day goes by in a blur and that it's easy to let it go by without taking a moment to soak it all in. With that in mind, Hunter and I made sure to take small moments during our wedding day to pause, pray and just be with one another. I remember several times throughout the day taking in the scene in front of me and committing it to memory thinking, "Lord, You are SO good!". After so many years of waiting, I can not describe the joy that comes with being united with your love in the Holy Sacrament of Marriage in front of your family and friends. Our wedding day is truly a testament to the fact that the Lord provides and is faithful to His promises. 

I hope you enjoy the photographs below taken by the beautiful Sarah Price. Thank you for journeying with Hunter and I over the last year as we prepared for this moment in our lives. Your prayers have been fruitful and meant so much to us! I will leave you with the quote that we placed in our wedding mass program:

"Beloved, you do not know how deeply you are mine, how much you belong to my love and my suffering-because to love means to give life through death; to love means to let gush a spring of water of life into the depths of the soul, which burns and smolders, and cannot burn out." -Karol Wojtyla (Pope Saint John Paul II), "The Jeweler's Shop"

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Photography: Sarah Price Photography | Church: St. Augustine- Elkridge, MD | Wedding Reception Venue: Cattail Creek Country Club | Florist: Corner Florist | Signs + Table Numbers: Custom Crafted Calligraphy  | Caterer: Cattail Creek Country Club | Bridal Gown: BHLDN | Bridesmaid Dresses: Global Bridal Gallery | Partial Wedding Planner: Cedar and Lime Co | Cake: Graul's Market | Hairstylist + Make Up Artists: Up-Dos for I-Dos | Music: Chris Laich Music Services | Groomsmen Tuxes: Cys

Jamie + Seth | Astronomy-Inspired Wedding

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Jamie and Seth reconnected at the perfect time in Jamie's life: as she was returning to the Church and rediscovering her relationship with Christ. Through the instantaneous peace she felt on their first date, to the tranquil joy of their wedding day, Jamie experienced, through Seth, the peace that only God can give. 

From the Bride: Peace and calmness. These are not words my friends and family use to describe me, and it was not how my heart felt--until I met Seth.

Christ's plan is always bigger than ourselves, and this is easy for us to forget. In 2013, the Lord began stirring my heart and was slowly guiding me back to the Catholic Church. At the same time I moved back to Maryland and was reunited with an old theatre friend from five years prior. Spending time with him was joyful and encouraging. He made me feel safe and loved from the start. I remember getting ready for our first date and thinking, "Why am I so calm?" Little did I know that God was foreshadowing my wedding day, when my bridesmaid said, "You are the most calm bride I have ever seen."

It wasn't easy getting from that first date to the wedding day, but like any journey that follows Jesus, it made us stronger. I was dating my future husband and re-converting to the church simultaneously, and the processes were surprisingly similar. The confusion and frustration that can be part of a relationship with Christ also comes with a relationship with a spouse. The happiness, enrichment, and goodness that comes as a result of loving the Lord is also a result of loving your spouse. Understanding what loving another person meant helped me to fall deeply in love with Jesus Christ, as well. 

Seth and I began going to Mass every week together, provoking wonderful conversations about the Church. He shed light on so many parts of being Catholic that I struggled with. It is one of the many ways our left brain and right brain balance works so well. Planning for the sacrament of marriage was unbelievably fruitful in learning even more about Christ's love for us and about the Catholic traditions.

When planning our wedding Mass, it was important to us that the entire congregation felt loved. We wanted our love for one another to be a clear reflection of Christ's love for His people. Having many religious backgrounds present at our wedding, we wanted to minimize the confusion of the Mass and enhance the importance of the Mass parts. Upon entering the stunning St. Alphonsus Church, each guest was taken aback by its beauty. I like to think that it is only a reflection of our wonder and awe of Jesus.

Our wedding program was designed in a way that people would feel comfortable with what was happening next. It also had short explanations about the presentation of flowers to Mary and of the Eucharist. Father John truly captured Christ's love for each person in that church during his homily. It wasn't until the reception that we learned how many guests had never been to a Mass before, and truly enjoyed the service. 

The reception began with touching speeches, beautiful dances, and even a special rendition of a Spice Girls song from the Maids of Honor! The rest of the night was vibrant with dancing. Seth loves astronomy; I love art. Those merged together created the constellation theme of our wedding. The fact that God created the planets and stars is a pretty wild thing to think about, and causes us to be continually in awe of Him.

We still pinch ourselves every day when we hear the words "husband" and "wife." Our hearts are fuller after entering into this sacrament together, and each day we continue striving to be more Christ like to one another. 

Photographer's Business Name : Lindsey Plevayak | Nupital Mass or Engagement Location: St. Alphonsus Church, Baltimore | Wedding Reception Venue: Rolling Road Golf Club | Videographer: Frankie Cerquetti | DJ: Glassroom Pro | Photobooth: Charm City Photo Booths | Cake: Bakery Express | Flowers: Blue Iris Flowers | Hair: Brooke St. Martin | Make-Up: Andrea Munk | Dress: BHLDN | Groom Suit: Mens Wearhouse | Groomsmen Ties & Groom Tie Clip: The Tie Bar | Engagement Ring: Helzburg Diamonds | Bride Wedding Band: Zales Outlet | Groom Wedding Band: Northern Royal | Bride Bracelets: Francescas | Bride Hair Piece & Earrings: Amazon