LANSING, Mich. — Trying to plan for life's most joyful experiences has become another source of stress during the pandemic. With large weddings on hold, couples remain in limbo. But as Amanda Brandeis explains, a newer wedding trend is gaining traction across the country giving couples their happily ever after.
It’s a fact of life “we knew we wanted to get married when we first started dating.”That life hardly ever goes as planned.“ We had a big warehouse venue picked out, with 200 guests, it was going to be a big celebration.” “these are people who’ve planned their weddings, spent a year, maybe two years planning their wedding. And it’s just starting to crumble beneath them.”
2020 reminded us just how unpredictable can be. “This time last year i was booking a lot of international weddings, as well as weddings across the country.” Sara Whittaker makes her living off capturing these moments.
“It’s a day full of so much emotion and so much love; and being able to create a story or narrative of that day, is really special.” And when the moments came to a halt, so did her livelihood. “I looked at friends who are vendors in industry and watch their years plummet, struggle financially, and still wanting to work.”
And for couples, who still wanted to get married. “Not knowing, it’s the uncertainty of everything, that was the most stressful part.” Whittaker wanted to help brides like izzy Van Vleet write a new story.
“I thought, wouldn’t it be great if we could do a COVID-friendly, small intimate wedding, get these people married, have it be safe. ”Teaming up with industry vendors, she crafted an all-inclusive elopement package.
For $2,500 dollars, it covers florals, hair and makeup, photos, video, and a wedding officiant. She curated an intimate experience off the beaten path in Joshua Tree National Park. “It’s not so much about who’s got the biggest floral budget or expensive dress, it’s about being there and marrying the person you love, and having those people you love the very most be able to witness it as well.”
But in true 2020 fashion, the unexpected happened yet again. “Started out with high hopes a beautiful day; I woke up to the wind blowing probably 40 mph!” But like so many other times this year, they adapted – setting up a back-up alter in case mother nature didn’t cooperate.
“As a small business owner you really have to adapt or die, it’s one of those things, if you can’t figure out a way to roll with the punches that the world gives you, you’re not going to make it.” But neither the wind nor a global pandemic could change this part of their story.
“By the power vested in me, you may seal your love with a kiss.” In 2020 we’re learning uncertainty can remind us what truly matters“ the things that mean the most are always worth it. ”As we navigate the uncharted territory that is life.
“We knew it was going to be special from the get go.”
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