We set our wedding date earlier this year, right before news of COVID-19 came out. The August date was not our first choice. Someone booked our reception venue shortly after I confirmed availability of our original May date. It gave us more time to plan, and as we would later find out, we would have had to postpone a May wedding due to COVID.
As I wrote in an earlier blog entry, “Wedding Planning During a Pandemic,” was challenging. With much uncertainty surrounding these times, I had to let go of expectations while still wanting to manifest the wedding of my dreams. At times it felt like planning was paused and we were just waiting for new developments or announcements of easing restrictions that would offer some assurance or direction. I tried to stay positive and continued to forge ahead.
While stores were closed, I did what I could. I researched vendors online and had virtual meetings with them. (Read What Is a Reasonable Response Time?) I joined wedding forums, as well as checked out Pinterest regularly. Amazon, Etsy, and other online shops were my friends.
Determined and Hopeful
Nothing was definite except our determination to get married on August 29th. Nearing an almost two-year engagement, we didn’t want to wait any longer. We agreed to keep our date regardless of what restrictions were in place at the time of our wedding. Even if that meant only 10 people could attend and/or we had to postpone our reception.
When stores and restaurants started reopening, I was very hopeful. I was thrilled when weddings of up to 300 people (with restrictions) would be allowed in Ohio starting June 1st.
Normally, our event venue held up to 150 people. Due to COVID restrictions, however, that number was cut in half. After paring down our guest list, we still over invited which could have been a risky move. We assumed many wouldn’t be able to attend, yet we couldn’t be sure until the RSVP’s came in.
Stressed Yet Prayerful
Many out-of-town guests (including my family) weren’t even sure if they’d be able to make it until the last minute. The waiting and uncertainty were stressful, but I remained hopeful. To avoid disappointment, I let go of who I expected (or wanted) to come. I was prayerful that those meant to be there would be and that we’d have enough room to accommodate everyone. I also prayed that our guests would be healthy and no one would get sick because of our wedding.
The final weeks leading up to the big day were stressful. Between my ambitious undertaking of DIY flowers, collecting RSVPs, working on seating arrangements, and tying other loose ends, I felt overwhelmed at times.
The day before the wedding, my anxiety was at an all-time high because of all that had to be done. From decorating the reception venue, having the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, to entertaining out-of-town guests and finding time in between to print programs and pack for my hotel stay. Luckily, I had the help of my fiance, family and friends.
The Wedding Day
On the day of the wedding, I felt calm and at peace despite only four hours of sleep. I had grown to love my wedding gown, even though I initially second-guessed my choice (read Second-Guessing Saying Yes to the Dress). Aside from getting ready, I just had to show up at the church. The planning and preparation was done. Everything seemed to fall into place.
We enlisted a friend who helped the ceremony run smoothly. She handed out the flowers to our wedding party and ceremony participants, and lined everyone up for the church processional. Our priest officiated a beautiful wedding which incorporated the Filipino tradition of the coins, veil, and cord ceremonies.
We also hired great vendors who helped make our day so special. Our reception was a lot of fun thanks to our DJ who emceed, facilitated games, played music and maintained the flow of the evening.
We were content with the turnout of 62 guests. All in all, we couldn’t have been happier with our COVID wedding.
