2020 has had an unthinkable effect on all of us. On our country, our health, on businesses and industries around the world. On people around the world. And for us, we’ve witnessed our couples having to postpone or cancel their special moments. Our big and beautiful events we work towards remain stuck in an uncertain pause. A painful pause. Couple Camilla and Carolyn “Carl” found themselves in the same situation as so many, their 2020 marriage plans indefinitely postponed. But in a time fraught with uncertainty, where rights are challenged and health is sacred these two didn’t want to wait to wed. They felt they couldn’t wait. With this in mind they made the decision that moving forward with a celebration, however it may look, was right for them.

It was important to the couple that their values were reflected throughout the process. To accomplish this they hired strictly diverse, local, queer or minority-owned businesses to bring their vision to life. This intention aligns perfectly with the way we run our business and we were thankful to be a part of their intimate team. We were honored to work towards creating a day that authentically commemorated and immortalized their love.

The private elopement took place at the beautiful and serene Cedar Lakes Estate in upstate New York, the perfect romantic setting. After taking a few quiet days to themselves beforehand, the couple tied the knot amongst the pines as the sun set in front of the water. Mimosa Floral Design created romantic red floral creations to mark the occasion. A floral ring took the place of a more traditional bouquet for Camilla and the couple shared vows in front of the most stunning circular arch. When the light hit the red florals just right the romantic glow was simply magical. Following their beautiful ceremony the couple hosted a digital cocktail hour, sharing virtual toasts and cheers with family and friends around the world. They even had personalized toast boxes sent to guests with tasty bites and drinks to cheers with. And while it may have looked different than past celebrations we’ve planned, different than the couple imagined when they first became engaged, it was a no less special. Thank you to Sam Guilbeaux of Light and Found Photography for capturing the memories of this incredible celebration!

This is a year of cherishing what we have and finding beauty in the unexpected. In that moment witnessing their vows, we stood not just as planner, but as witness, as friend, and as family. And it reminded us of why we do what we do. It reminded us that the love of two people is at the heart of it all. The bond that runs deep and their right to celebrate that bond will forever be sacred. As Camilla and Carl joined together in marriage it gave us hope. Because love always wins. We have to believe that it will always find a way. With a lot of flexibility and a little creativity we were able to safely come together. We were able to celebrate Camilla and Carl’s beautiful love and their right to this day. It is still an uncertain time for a number of reasons and there are many battles ahead, but just hold on friends. And in the waiting and perseverance, find the love.