A lot of things were put on hold when the pandemic broke out.

We’re sure most of us had many plans for that year – travel, business, life events, and celebrations. They were on our list and planned out in our calendars. But when we’re forced to put everything on hold, we’re left to ponder if pushing through it will be worth it.

One big event that people heartbrokenly canceled last year was weddings.

Many about-to-wed couples were devastated by the news. We could only imagine the amount of time, effort, and money spent on wedding preparations, especially food and reception. While they can set aside other things for later, other wedding provisions like flowers and food may not be easy to cancel.

But this couple in Cleveland came up with a brilliant idea so they can still push through with the wedding.

Melanie and Tyler Tapajna prepared for a grand wedding day. But because they must follow strict health protocols, they settled for a small wedding with a few family members and friends. They also booked their favorite food truck, Betty’s Bomb Ass Burgers, for their reception.

Instead of canceling and getting a full refund, they thought of something better.

The couple made use of this opportunity to not make this wedding just about themselves. They realized that the sudden turn of events paved the way for them to give back to the community. So, they held their reception in a shelter instead.

The couple had their wedding reception at Laura’s Home.

Laura’s Home is a shelter that serves women and children who are experiencing a crisis. This was a first for the said shelter – celebrating a wedding reception in their mess hall with the newlyweds behind the counter serving food.

The shelter said that a lot had changed during the pandemic.

But with the couple’s efforts, the women and children in Laura’s Home were able to enjoy the food. They served chicken, macaroni and cheese, green beans, salad, and much more. Plus, there was a beautiful purple setup with some giveaways and chocolates on each table.

The couple was excited to do this for their community.

Melanie said in an interview with News 5 Cleveland that it was the perfect time to spread love with everything that was happening. Tyler also reminded everyone to do their part, pay it forward, and give back. The couple also thought people seemed to have forgotten that we’re all in it together, especially during these challenging times.

After serving the food, Melania and Tyler went to the dining area to meet their guests.

Like any wedding reception, the couple also went from one table to another to talk to the women and children to ensure they were having a great time. They shared how it made them happy to see the smiles on their faces. The couple also wishes their guests could also see their smiles underneath their masks.

What a great way to start their life as a couple: full of happiness and love.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Source: News 5 Cleveland YouTube Channel, The City Mission Facebook Page