Blog PostRachel & Matthew: 12.05.20 Real Wedding

Beth Kilgore March 29, 2021

Photographer: Living Radiant Photography / Wedding Dress: Zoya’s Atelier


We were on a trip to Paris. One day we went to Notre Dame. Notre Dame is really important to my family and me as we are Catholic and the cathedrals such an iconic landmark in Catholicism. I was admiring the cathedral and its beauty, even after the fire that destroyed such iconic parts. I heard Matthew call my name and I turned around to see him on one knee holding his grandmother’s engagement ring, which his late grandfather had designed for his grandmother. It was so beyond perfect! 

Invitations: Zazzle / Rings: Dominion Jewelers

The whole day was a special moment. Matthew and I had gone through so much with COVID and our job situations, just like any other couple in 2020 getting married.

Being able to have a wedding ceremony and celebration during a pandemic was difficult, to say the least, but in the end, we were able to celebrate with our families and friends, whether physically or virtually, and that was
such a blessing.

There are so many special details that I could say, but I think I will give the few that meant most to Matthew and me. We had a table set up at our backyard reception dedicated to those people who were most
important to us who had passed. That meant a lot to us because both of my grandfathers and Matthew’s grandfather had passed so it was a nice touch to have them there with us on our big day.

We had little bells as favors that had a tag attached saying “Make a joyful noise”. They were inspired by the favors my parents gave out at their wedding.

Cake: Heidelberg Bakery
Flowers: Royalty Flowers

Being able to have a wedding ceremony and celebration during a pandemic was difficult, to say the least, but in the end, we were able to celebrate with our families and friends, whether physically or virtually, and that was such a blessing.


Accommodations: The Marriott at Fairview Park
Hair & Makeup: The Stylist Abroad with Sarah Richards (hair), Stephanie Buccola – friend (makeup)
Bridesmaids Dresses: Lulu’s
Cake: Heidelberg Bakery
Caterer: 2941 Restaurant (dinner), Uncle Julio’s Tacos (reception)
Entertainment: DJ Lukas Brown (a friend)
Favors: DIY Bells
Flowers: Royalty Flowers
Formal Wear: Jos. A Bank
Invitations: Zazzle
Jewelry: Nordstrom
Linens: Amazon
Officiant: Father Paul Scalia
Photography: Living Radiant Photography
Reception Venue: 2941 Restaurant and After Party (brides backyard)
Rings: Dominion Jewelers
Shoes: DSW
Wedding Gown: Zoya’s Atelier