It’s wild how fast 2020 went from the old sense of normalcy to complete confusion and uncertainty. No one would have predicted a year that could have the potential to completely wipe out the connection between those you’re closest to. If your wedding celebration was abruptly interrupted by this year’s events, you were most likely feeling a mix of frustration, overwhelm, sadness, and worry.

Yet even in normal times, wedding planning can lead to incessant stress, but when you have to sort through new save the dates, restrictions with vendors, moving your date, and other unexpected concerns, this overwhelm increases tenfold. Although current events have sparked us moving in new ways and adjusting to the uncomfortable, this new way of thinking is always applicable to life, no matter the circumstances. We were made for this, even if at times it doesn’t feel that way.

One of the most beautiful things to come out of this year is the number of silver linings that peeked through. What is truly special, was the opportunity we had to go back to the drawing board. We had the chance to sit and talk about the bones that make events so personal and special. Why we do what we do and who we have the opportunity to do it for are the pillars of our existence. We learned how to translate and adjust to accommodate restrictions across the country. All in all, we were given the opportunity to make history, reframe our perspectives, and adapt while never losing sight of the impact we can have on our clients and our community when we adjust our sails due to the unforeseen winds.

Our clients Molly and Charley were two who took the plunge in adapting to marry on their original wedding date, while saving the reception for an intended 2021 date, and the result was unlike anything we could have imagined. In reconfiguring the event, one of the largest changes we made was integrating a digital experience into one that’s so traditionally in-person. Live streaming the ceremony to nearly 372 people who would’ve physically been in attendance created a connected community from all over the world. As we watched their guest’s login to the stream from behind the scenes where we stood, our adrenaline pumped with both relief of success but also the reminder and one thing above all: love wins.  This was made possible by Watertown Films, and for a peek at how we did this, we hope you enjoy this video!

We also took all of their design elements and worked with their contracted vendor team from up and down the West Coast, from Los Angeles to Seattle to bring their wedding day to life. Without the dedication, willingness, and professionalism of this vendor team, none of this would have been possible, and to say we are grateful to stand alongside such a strong group of people would be an understatement.

Despite the fact that the world has crumbled in many ways, and no doubt, things are scary and unstable, love somehow always conquers—and having that support system is key to fueling this adjustment period, which brings us to this: The most important part in all of this was being comfortable with the uncomfortable. This meant that we wouldn’t and couldn’t lose sight of what we, our clients, and our community are capable of.

And although a smooth sea may have never made a skilled sailor, we remain hopeful for calmer tides ahead.

With love,

KTE

Wedding Planning & Design by Kelsey Timberlake Events

Photography by Carlos Hernandez

Cinematography and Live-Stream by Watertown Films

Floral by Gather Design Company

Stationery by Tie That Binds

Makeup & Hair by Jen Lagers

Cake by Dream Cakes

Bride’s Gown by Studio Levana from Lovely Bride Seattle

Groom’s Attire by Wildwood & Company

Linens by La Tavola Linen

Rentals by Theoni Collection, The Party Place