Wits End, Ellijay, Georgia Elopement Photo Story Award

Erin and Emily react to a toast from a friend.

Erin and Emily’s plan for a March wedding with more than 100 guests went out the window when the pandemic hit the US early that month. They postponed their wedding until October thinking that all would be back to normal.

Alas, that did not come to pass.

And thus, an intimate COVID-friendly wedding with a few friends and family was born.

The couple’s nuptials took place at Wit’s End, “a dreamscape of babbling streams, mountain valley meadows and magical ancient forests dotted with secret sitting areas, cozy fire pits, tree swings, old farm buildings, a pavilion, and a modern cottage.” 

Even after rescheduling, they found themselves still bound by the safety concerns of COVID-19.

So, here are a few things they did.

1) They created a sign that included safety instructions such as: “Thank you for keeping 6 feet distance,” and “We’re not hugging,” and “Thank you for wearing a mask.”

2. They set up chairs by family groups, with members of a single-family sitting together, but more than 6 feet from another family seating group.

3. They had masks made to match their color scheme for the day.

4. Masks, in three different sizes, were left in a box near the ceremony seats, so guests could pick one upon entering.

5. Close family members quarantined for 14 days before the wedding.

The couple, their family, and a few friends celebrated their love on a beautiful day in the mountains, despite the pandemic.

Emily and parents follow Erin and her parents down the aisle at the start of the ceremony.

Erin's daughter and son fight back tears while Emily shares her feelings for them during the ceremony.

Tables were set up to seat family groupings and spaced further apart than suggested COVID guidelines.

Emily's mom shares stories with the flower girl.