Grace and Andrij’s Wedding Embracing Tradition & Growing Together

Photos by Corey of COJO Photo

Grace and Andrij’s love story began in the summer of 2020, when Andrij and Grace both started work terms at Botanical PaperWorks. Though they knew of each other prior, they reconnected while making seed paper. 

Meeting anyone through the pandemic was tough, so finding a connection at that time was extra special, and what started as small talk grew into something amazing.

Throughout their engagement and wedding journey, the couple left easter eggs that tied back to their story. Their invitations were no exception: they announced their special day with custom seed paper wedding invitations by Botanical PaperWorks. The connection to the place they reconnected as well as their shared care for the environment made seed paper invitations and easy choice. 

After the most magical snowfall on October 26, 2023, Grace and Andrij said ‘I do’. 

The couple went with a classic theme that highlighted her vintage-style dress adorned with ivory lace. For accessories, Grace wore a long veil that exaggerated the train of her dress and she wore her mother’s wedding earrings. The earrings were a subtle nod to the generations before them who had strong marriages, which inspired both Grace and Andrij.

The couple chose to have a meaningful church ceremony at St. Ignatius Church surrounded by family and friends. The venue choice captured their love for tradition and their family’s values. The church also shared their color palette of earth tones.

Grace opted for a classic bouquet of white roses and foliage by Petals Flowers that complemented Andrji’s green floral tie, which was handmade in Ukraine. 

After the ceremony, the guests headed to Sts. Peter and Paul Hall which was decorated with flowers, greenery, and other beautiful elements. The traditional Ukrainian bread Korovai was shared with the couple. The Korovai is typically prepared by the women in their lives as an expression of support for the newlyweds. 

On each table, there was a table number with a rustic wood base, gold cutlery, and “Ordinary Miracle” printed on seed paper as a call-back to their connection. In addition to the table setting, there were handmade soap wedding favors for each guest. Each bar was made by Grace, and wrapped with a loving note.

Dinner was catered by Fried Green Tomatoes and was followed by speeches. 

Their first dance was to the song “Grow As We Go”, which encapsulated their commitment to each other: though they are young, they are committed to growing together. The song choice is also a subtle reference to their start at Botanical PaperWorks. 

The day was everything they dreamt of and more. Cheers to the happy couple, and we wish them a lifetime full of love and happiness.