Brilliant Pandemic-Perfect Wedding Features Friends and Family Virtually

Stacy and Erika had a dream wedding planned, with scenic views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams and the entire Historic Hood River Hotel booked for the weekend. However, they both work in healthcare and started to rethink their wedding plans as COVID-19 restrictions began being implemented. They considered postponing to a later date in 2020, but with a guest list comprised of people from all over the country, they realized that travel would be a safety issue. Ultimately, the duo says that their priority was to get married, move forward with next steps in their lives together, and not risk the health of any loved ones in the process. The couple stuck with their original date, and used virtual means to simulate their original plans. 

They held a virtual cocktail hour on Zoom in place of the rehearsal dinner, and their officiant, Erika’s uncle, was on FaceTime to perform the ceremony from New York. During the ceremony, one of Stacey’s long-time best friends read a poem virtually, and family members joined the reception via FaceTime to give virtual toasts. In incorporating these virtual details, Stacy and Erika were still able to enjoy the most meaningful moments of a more traditional wedding. 

Their wedding plans had been halted for months as they tried to navigate changing COVID-19 restrictions, so there was much uncertainty surrounding a venue. In the final weeks before their wedding date, a friend graciously opened their home to the two, providing them with the perfect setting. Decorated in white florals, hints of dusty blue and navy, the atmosphere was complemented by the soothing natural greenery that the PNW is known for. 

While their in-person guest count was projected at 75, their Zoom guest count was around 100. Guests were able to live stream the ceremony, the first dance, virtual toasts, and cake cutting. Virtual guests were also asked to send video messages for the newlyweds to watch later that evening.  Despite the difficulties Erika and Stacey faced in planning, their intimate nuptials proved to be undeniably joyful, and their smiles and laughter throughout illustrated what mattered most — their love for each other.