The invitations were printed and addressed, the dress had made its way back with me from Italy to Kentucky, and as we finalized our wedding details, Marce reapplied for the visa waiver that’s allowed him to visit the U.S. without issue for the past six years. But this time, a newly enforced travel ban—linked to a brief trip he took to Cuba back in 2015—got in the way. Though the rules should have allowed it, his application was simply “cancelled,” without explanation or possibility for appeal or resolution.

The alternative was a longer and more uncertain visa process—one that would require him to prove tourist intent just as we were preparing to marry. After weeks of deliberating with our lawyer, reading up on immigration process and playing out scenario after scenario, we took a step back. We decided not to let the frustration and bureaucracy of navigating this very “particular” moment in our country dictate our joy, and we shifted our course. We didn’t want to anxiously fight our way into a celebration that should be filled with ease, love, and lightness.

So we’re getting married in Italy—in the church cloisters of Marce’s small hometown of Monticiano—surrounded by his family, friends and a handful of close loved ones. This sudden pivot turned all of our plans on their head. At first, it was overwhelming to scrap timelines, venues, our guest list and every carefully made decision. But in the midst of that chaos, we found some clarity. Planning this new “last minute” version of our wedding- simple and intentional- helped us let go of details that didn’t really matter and hold onto what does. In many ways, it feels more like us—intimate, grounded, and full of heart.

While it will be a very small gathering, it’s meant to be a quiet ceremony where our families can spend time together, and where we begin our marriage with meaning rather than grandeur. We wish we could bring everyone along, but we hope you know we’ll be holding you in our hearts that day.

Even though our plans no longer bring us together in person, we want you to know: this invitation was meant for you. Your presence in our lives is something we cherish, and it’s important to us that you feel part of this moment. Thank you for your love, your support and your understanding.

We intend to plan a gathering with all of you as soon as we can bring Marce back to the States and throw a version of that original celebration that includes all the hugs, stories, and shared glasses of wine that we’ve had to put on pause.

Until then, we’d be honored to have you join us virtually on Thursday, August 14th at 10:30am Eastern (4:30pm Italy time) as we say our vows. You can find the livestream (pending rural Italian internet cooperation!) at our website along with photos and videos that we’ll upload afterwards!

theknot.com/anninaandmarce

After the wedding, we’ll be sharing photos and video on the website as well, in case you’d like to witness the moment later or celebrate with us in your own time

With so much love and gratitude,

Anna & Marce