When the world turns upside down and everything you planned has to be changed what do you do? For Stephanie and Brian, the answer was simple; you make it work.

As the COVID-19 pandemic began in March, the couple was in the process of planning an extravagant wedding with optimism that the world would be back to normal by the end of the year. Unfortunately for the two, the world had different plans and having a pandemic wedding added to the stressors of planning a ceremony that people would need to travel for. 

“As we got closer, I became terrified of inconveniencing our closest friends/family by changing plans or, worse, someone we love getting sick because of us,” the bride says.

Even though the couple had to make massive changes to their original plan, the couple remained optimistic and knew that the most important thing to focus on was their love. 

“COVID-19 really makes you look at what’s most important,” the bride says. “At the end of the day, we just wanted to get married.” 

Their once large-scale New Orleans wedding turned into a 50 person gathering of those closest to Stephanie and Brian. Those that weren’t able to attend in person were supportive of their decision to have a smaller wedding for the sake of safety and were even able to enjoy the wedding as it was live-streamed by Montoto Productions.

“It gave us a sense of peace to know that our loved ones who couldn’t be with us could still witness our vows, especially our grandparents,” the bride says.

With the guest list secured and the October date drawing near, the couple prepared for the wedding of their dreams. 

“In the end, it felt like any other wedding full of love and joy, and lots of gorgeous flowers and candles,” the bride says. “And no one got COVID-19 at our wedding!”

In the couple’s eyes, the precautions that were taken were worth the safety of their loved ones. Their ceremony was decorated with white and red roses and signs that read “Spread love, not germs,” and “Celebration masks required.”

Vows were shared in a lush garden and the dancing commenced in the dimly lit, rustic venue. As everyone danced the night away, they were able to share in the joyous moment, no matter how hectic the world outside the brick walls and lace veils was. 

Through hardship and struggle, the couple proved that love prevails, even when shared at a six-foot distance.

Vendors: Photographer: The Rylands Photo Co; Event Planner: Spanish Oak Events; Floral Designer: Herbivore Floral Designs; Ceremony Venue: Hermann Grima House; Reception Venue/Caterer: Broussard’s; Cinema and Video: Montoto; Beauty: Glam On Location; Lighting: Firefly Ambiance; Cake Designer: Bittersweet Confections; Bands: GOT Groove & Kinfolk Brass Band; Linens and Coverings: BBJ Linen; Dress Designer: Zavana Bridal; Dress Store: Vivienne Atelier Bridal Shop Houston