Every once in a while love emerges in a space of magnificent improbability. John and Alex met at a time when neither was particularly searching for nor expecting to meet their future husband - and especially not from across an ocean! A nudge online became an hours-long conversation, which became a series of long conversations, then overseas visits, and then the ceremony that gathered loved ones in Alex’s backyard on the Fall Equinox.
One of my favorite details at this wedding was the altar of family photographs & mementos honoring John’s father, Alex’s mother, and other loved ones who joined the celebration in spirit. John and Alex mentioned in our initial meeting that each of them were grieving beloved parents when they met, and that being able to really see one another and offer support around something so singularly difficult proved to be an indelible cornerstone in the foundation of their relationship. I was very moved by this, and by the palpable depth of love and regard I witnessed not only between the two of them, but between the friends and family who surround them - on both sides of the pond! A dear friend officiated the ceremony, and John’s nephew and Alex’s siblings delivered heartfelt words, including a letter from John’s family back in the UK, who joined via Zoom while eagerly awaiting some UK-based wedding festivities the following week! Alex’s late mother’s dog, Paco, wore a sparkly bowtie and also served as *the most* adorable ring bearer.
The rain held out through the ceremony until literally seconds after we finished family photos outside in the yard. Umbrellas, awnings, and the house’s breezeway were all merrily ducked beneath while everyone sipped bubbly and toasted before heading to dinner at Marna’s Eatery & Lounge, whose tropical plant- and map-filled lounge area and delicious Costa Rican cuisine provided the perfect backdrop for an intercontinental love story.
Cheers and heartfelt gratitude to this truly special duo!
