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Ornella & Blaine

Sunday, September 1, 2024 • St. Louis, MO

Ornella & Blaine

Sunday, September 1, 2024 • St. Louis, MO

A West (and East) Side Story

In the bustling room that is Saint Louis University's (SLU) Commuter Lounge, amidst the roars of laughter over video games and napping students, it was only a matter of time until Blaine and Ornella (Nelly) would bump into each other. When that happened, Blaine would be met with a resounding, "Ew" from Nelly.


She did not like the high school that he attended (they were rivals). It was after discussing that, it was discovered that they were pursuing the same major Both immersed in the world of psychology, they found themselves drawn to the same lectures, the same study groups, and the same intellectual pursuits.


Yet, as days turned into weeks and weeks into months, their interactions deepened. Conversations evolved from academic discussions to personal anecdotes, from shared experiences to shared dreams. They discovered a kinship, a resonance in each other's thoughts and aspirations that transcended the confines of mere friendship.


Slowly but surely, their bond blossomed into something more. What began as friendly banter turned into hours of evening conversations. They found solace in each other's company, comfort in each other's presence, and laughter in each other's jokes.


As they navigated the ups and downs of university life together, their connection only grew stronger. They celebrated each other's successes and provided support through the challenges they faced. They became each other's confidants, their friendship serving as the foundation upon which something deeper was built.


And then, one day, they decided to just "see what happens" and start dating. In that moment, amidst the echoes of their shared laughter and the memories they had shared together on their first date, they knew that they had found something truly special.


From that day forward, their journey took on a new trajectory. They embarked hand in hand, navigating the complexities of love with the same determination and passion they had brought to their academic pursuits. As they walked side by side, they knew that their story—of how they met and fell in love amidst the "SLUlips" of SLU - was just the beginning of a lifetime of adventures yet to come.


As their love continued to flourish, it was only fitting that their story came full circle in a place that held so much meaning for both of them. Thus, amidst the grandeur of College Church, where they had once shared fleeting glances and exchanged shy smiles, they returned to seal their commitment to one another in the most profound way possible.


Surrounded by the timeless beauty of the church's architecture and the warmth of their loved ones' embrace, they exchanged vows that echoed the depth of their connection. In that sacred space where their journey had begun, they pledged their love and devotion to each other, promising to navigate life's joys and challenges hand in hand.