Before COVID-19, in January 2020, Matthew and Siobahn Grady decided to elope.
Siobahn shares, “We eloped because eloping was always our dream. Just the two of us on our terms.” They had the awesome idea to take wedding portraits at a later date that they could share with family and friends. However, their plans came to a halt due to the Coronavirus pandemic sweeping the nation. When phased re-openings started, they decided to capitalize on the moment by capturing their love in wedding portraits.
See all of their romantic photos captured at the North Carolina Botanical Gardens below.
- Full names of couple: Matthew and Siobahn Grady
- Occupations: IT Project Manager and Assistant Professor of Information Systems
- Wedding date: January 13, 2020
- Wedding location: We eloped at the courthouse in our city of residence.
How did you meet?
We met at our alma mater Winston-Salem State University.
Tell us about the proposal.
The proposal was magical. For my birthday my husband (at the time boyfriend) surprised me with a trip to Asheville, North Carolina. He told me to pack a bag and what time to be ready. The only criteria was for me to bring a nice black dress on the trip. 3+ hours later we arrive at the Biltmore Estate. We had lunch and then got dressed up to go view the estate that evening. As we were walking up to the estate gardens, my boyfriend got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. He had a photographer onsite to capture all of the images leading up to the proposal and afterward. I will never forget how thoughtful and special it was for him to plan something so wonderful.
Why did you decide to elope?
We eloped because eloping was always our dream. Just the two of us on our terms.
Did COVID-19 affect your wedding plans?
It did not. At the time, COVID-19 was not being reported on or known in the US.
Describe your wedding style.
Traditional, with modern flare. The Tux was Vera Wang. The wedding dress was custom made.
What was the wedding shopping experience like for you?
Tedious (lol), we wanted our attire to compliment one another.
What is your best memory from your wedding/elopement?
The entire experience was unforgettable. From the day we met to becoming married, we feel as though we were destined to be together.
What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
Marry on your terms in your time. There is no right or wrong way to get married.
Vendors
- Photography: NRJ Photography @n_rose_j
- Hair: @jaliyahs.chair
- Makeup: Tiwa Lawrence @tiwalawrence
- Nails: @rosanavicario1111
- Flowers: @englishgardenraleigh
- Location: NC Botanical Gardens @ncbotanicalgarden
So Amazing!!! You are beautiful sis! #Congrats again #2020GradyStyle
Thank you so much sis for celebrating our love with us! We appreciate you.
You guys look wonderful😍🥰… Thanks Matt for being so thoughtful and making Siobahn the happiest lady, great job! Siobahn, I love you so much you look great….!! Congrats and wishing you both much happiness..
Thank you so much, cousin. We love you and appreciate your support!
To Mr and Mrs Matthew Grady, I can’t think of a ore fitting way to celebrate your union. Your thoughtfulness to include your family and friends with the pictures if your memories us so touching! Great job. Congratulations and God’s blessings. Bettie and M C.
Thank you so much Bettie for your kind words. The family received these photos in the form of a holiday card this year!
Beautiful bride and groom! Congratulations Matthew and Siobahn. Best wishes on this wonderful journey, as you build your new lives together! God bless,
~ Aunt Ruby
Thank you, Aunt Ruby :-)