Celebrating with Zola(.com)!

Hello! And thanks for visiting my blog! So, the verdict has finally been made to not hold a shower or reception to celebrate our marriage after all. As most of you know, with our private wedding being in the Fall of '19 we had planned to have a shower and reception in the Spring and Summer of '20 - but Covid hit just in time to put those plans to sleep.

Being frugal and unassuming, we were fine with postponing at first. But now after all this time, not being able to schedule something has been somewhat heartbreaking. Waiting for eachother for as long as we did - we are so grateful for our marriage and how God brought us together in His perfect timing. Still -- at times, we grieve the fact that we haven't been able to experience the love, excitement, and celebration with all of our loved ones in a formal tradional setting.

Tradition isn't that important to us -- but celebrating our lives together with our friends and family in someway seems necessary. So many people have made suggestions, or asked us many questions as to why don't we do this...or that...and we thank you for your kindness in wanting us to do SOMETHING to celebrate our union. Cutting to the chase, because of the travel restrictions (both out of state, and Canada), it has delayed the planning and therefore executing of a formal reception. It's not that everyone else isn't worth celebrating with, it's just the whole point is to have everyone we hold dear to us, who has been a vital part of our journeys -- too much so to be missed at such a formal occasion.

Therefore, after discussing with Neil, and my life-long friend and confidante, we have decided t to hold a virtual registry in place of the formal bridal shower, and celebration! You can browse it here: www.zola.com/registry/mbandneil

We are so happy to extend a way for you all to celebrate with us in a non-traditional way, as many of you have been asking since our marriage what our plans are for this. We love you all and are so thankful to have you in our lives!!! Please don't hesitate to reach out as we would love to see you before we move. Grateful,

The Vandenberghs