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In a side-by-side comparison of weddings pre-pandemic and now, we see that against all odds, true love still wins.
Everything changes. And ironically, change is the only thing constant in this life.
However, as humans, we feel comfortable sticking to a routine. After all, we like the feeling of being in control of our lives. Slight differences in this will cause us to be shaken, stress us out, and panic—as we try our best to get back on track. And let’s be honest: we’re all afraid of change. I mean, who would want to step out of their comfort zone if they can stay in it?

But with a snap of a finger, these plans can come crumbling down. Against all odds, we can be forced to keep up even when there is something dragging us down. Take this pandemic, for example. Many plans—from traveling to even simply going out with friends—have been canceled for our safety. But later down the line, we’ll soon see that some of these changes may actually bring about a lot of good things in our lives.
I get nostalgic whenever I think about the pre-pandemic times. Weddings back then were grander and more elaborate—while now, they’re smaller and more intimate. And because I’m part of the events industry, I witness these occasions firsthand. From there, I tend to compare it to the past.


Weddings are Always Fun and Exciting
THEN: You get to invite as many family and friends that you like. You make sure that everyone important to you and everyone that has been part of your lives is there to witness the celebration. The people you weren’t able to see for quite some time now will make an effort to be present on your wedding day. That’s why weddings become an instant reunion all the time—one with some of the best memories.


NOW: Due to the current protocols because of the pandemic, the people you get to invite nowadays are those that are really close to you. So close—to the point that you already have inside jokes amongst yourselves. It makes me happy watching someone crack a private joke that causes the whole room to burst into laughter as they reminisce a shared moment.

Weddings are Always Momentous Occasions
THEN: I’m sure everyone will agree on this. When someone we know gets married, you share in their happiness. And it too feels like you’ve won at love. Meanwhile, for those that are still waiting for love to come their way, seeing these weddings will make them believe that true love exists. Plus, it feels good to celebrate this moment with the people you love surrounding you.


NOW: I know love will always win, especially when I see couples push through with their celebration—no matter what challenge they’re facing or have been through. Their grit to withstand anything also gives me hope that everything will work out for the better. At the same time, it’s nice to see wedding guests make sure that the couple still feels loved and celebrated despite the smaller, more intimate setup.


Weddings are Always Touching and Romantic
THEN: Seeing people give each other long hugs and sweet kisses when they see each other in weddings usually makes my heart flutter. Love is truly in the air—not only from the couple—but also for the couple.


NOW: Despite the restrictions, I admire how people are still able to express how much they love and miss each other. They may not hug and kiss like before, but even something as simple as being there for the couple matters most.


Weddings are Always Beautiful
THEN: Couples usually give their best efforts to make sure that the wedding they’ve envisioned will be brought to life. For this, they hire professionals like wedding planners, stylists, and photographers to help make the wedding of their dreams possible.


NOW: Though smaller, couples still see to it that every little detail is properly executed for them and their guests to enjoy. In turn, guests also do things to show their love and support—whether or not they’re physically present on their wedding day.

Weddings will Always be a Classic
“It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.”
– Henry David Thoreau
Same narratives, different perspectives. Though things may not always stay the same, it’s your outlook in these situations that will greatly affect the series of events that will happen next.
Pandemic or not, people still want to love and be loved. People will want to be able to continue to celebrate love no matter the circumstances. That’s why all of us in the events industry—from the planners to the stylists, designers, and more—are happy to help make your dreams come true.



Photos by Amanda Tirol
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