Leia & Jake...Love in the midst of Covid-19

This couple was such an inspiration to me and I thought you’d like to hear their story. 

Leia and Jake were like so many couples that spent the first couple weeks of March listening intently to the news reports on the Coronavirus outbreak.  For just about nine months they had planned every detail of their wedding ceremony and reception that was to be held at The Grove of Redlands in late March, followed by their honeymoon in Europe.  The wedding week timeline had been sent out, décor was boxed & labeled, and we were all ready for a great celebration!!

The first big disappointment came on March 11 when the travel ban was announced to European countries.  Jake & Leia had saved and worked hard to pay for their trip that would end with a couple days at Disneyland Paris.  Now it all had to be cancelled.  They would not get their dream honeymoon!  Unfortunately, this would not be the last disappointment…

As the wedding week approached, the numbers of Coronavirus cases grew across the country.  Each day brought new information and fears of what might happen here in CA. The second week of March, it was announced that gatherings of 250 people were allowed in CA.  Leia & Jake had a guest count that was under 200 so they would be fine…the wedding could go on as planned. In the span of four short days, CA guidelines changed from gatherings of 250, to 50, to 10 and finally to five.  

Everyday we were talking through ideas and options...sometimes it felt like we were planning all over again.  We talked about the idea of having a small informal event with a ceremony at a local park followed by an open house at the family home.  My assistant Jenni and I were updating the timeline and contacting vendors while Leia was reaching out to her bridal party, family and friends.  We had a few more logistics to figure out but this seemed like a good option and it was going to be beautiful! By Wednesday, it was clear that even a gathering of 10 would probably not be possible. 

Each time we talked, I could hear the sadness in Leia’s voice.  What was to be one of the happiest times of their lives would simultaneously be one of the most disappointing.  When I asked Leia what made it bearable, she said, “My mom and Jake were my biggest rocks during this time.  It was an emotional rollercoaster the week leading up and I don’t know how I would’ve been able to make it through without them.”  Feelings of sadness were overwhelming… but they were anchored in their faith and confident in God's ultimate plan for their lives as a couple.  Leia shared, “My faith was so important during this time and knowing that no matter what, we were getting married.” They decided to keep their wedding date and had an intimate ceremony at Leia’s family home.   

When asked what advice she would have for couples right now, she said, “Press On!  God is good and has everything under control. I know it’s really hard right now but your wedding day will still be perfect.  If possible, I’d say, still get married.” 

Later this summer they will celebrate with family and friends and what a celebration it will be!! Can’t wait!!!