After Their Coptic Orthodox Ceremony, This Couple Took Pictures at The Parthenon in Nashville

Not only was Marleen and Philo's wedding a beautiful celebration of their relationship, but it also brought to a close their long-distance engagement as they'd been split up in Canada and Nashville for the duration of wedding planning. While border closures resulting from the pandemic left the fate of their wedding up in the air initially, the day ultimately came together beautifully with the couple's nearest and dearest loved ones able to attend in person. 

The couple's faith is a central tenet of their relationship and, as such, it was important to Marleen and Philo that religion be woven throughout the day. To start the day, the couple exchanged vows with a traditional Coptic Orthodox ceremony "led by Philo’s cousins and close friends. The prayers were beautiful and Marleen cried all her happy tears," recalls the couple. Additionally, they also found many other ways to honor their faith throughout their Nashville wedding. "Our sweet florist prayed for our day and for our future as she was customizing the flower bouquets," recalls Marleen fondly. "She made my bouquet and Philo’s boutonnière from the same bunches of flowers. She also asked us to write a small prayer on pieces of paper, that she placed in the flowers. I then got to read Philo’s prayer from the morning and Philo read mine when we got to our new home as newlyweds. It was so special as we were carrying each other’s prayers with us as we went through the wedding day."

Looking back on their wedding day at The Parthenon in Nashville, Tennessee, the couple has some advice for current to-be-weds in the midst of wedding planning: "Find a photographer that you love. One that makes you comfortable in front of the camera and keeps you excited and in the moment. Surround yourself with happy and positive people that will make sure your day goes without a hitch and handle whatever may come their way with grace. Be happy and enjoy every single moment. The day flies by. Also, things will go wrong but at the end of the day, you get to become one with your love. Take it easy and remain happy no matter what! Life is good and God is better!"