Love Finds a Way in COVID-Times

Picture a wedding. What comes to mind? White dresses, bridesmaids in matching colors, extensive guest lists, showers, bachelor/bachelorette parties, walking up the aisle, flowers and music, elaborate receptions with carefully chosen (and usually expensive) food and drink, cake, first dances, honeymoons. Gifts. Lots of gifts—at showers, for bridesmaids and groomsmen, party favors for wedding guests, and gifts for the newly married couple. Of course, this vision wasn’t always so.

During WWII many couples, including my parents, improvised their weddings. Mom and Dad rescheduled twice and finally got married on the third try. Their wedding resembled the small, intimate weddings that have become common during COVID-Times. 

For some, the simplicity has been freeing. Too often weddings take on a life of their own. The couple can become performers of a script they didn’t wholeheartedly choose. 

This spring when our sons marry, they will have the essentials: love and commitment. Close friends and family standing by to support them. Meaningful vows. A pleasing setting and celebratory food. Joy. Everything they need.

Although my parents didn’t live to see their grandsons marry, there’s a pleasing symmetry in these small COVID-style weddings. When the times call for it, love finds a way.

Comments

6 responses to “Love Finds a Way in COVID-Times”

  1. Ann Coleman Avatar

    So true! And I especially loved your last line!

    1. Ellen Shriner Avatar

      Thanks! COVID pushed them to choose small weddings, but now they’re grateful.

  2. cynthiakraack Avatar
    cynthiakraack

    Nice parallel. Hope the weddings create wonderful memories.

    1. Ellen Shriner Avatar

      Thanks, I hope so too!

  3. Eliza Waters Avatar

    I’ve always preferred smaller weddings, more intimate and meaningful. Best wishes to both your sons and their brides.

    1. Ellen Shriner Avatar

      Thank you! I’m definitely seeing the benefits.

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