Wedding Wednesdays are always a vibe here at ESSENCE thanks to our weekly Bridal Bliss column. Though 2020 was a year unlike any other due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these couples found creative ways to say “I do” their way.
From socially distanced ceremonies to beautiful garden vow renewals, we were absolutely wowed by the Bridal Bliss 2020 that shared their special day with us.
Take a look at our favorite Bridal Bliss moments from 2020.
Want to see your wedding featured in Bridal Bliss? Send your story and a link to your wedding photos to bridalbliss@essence.com for consideration.
01
Best Wedding Theme: Angel And Bobby
The couple’s luxurious Colorado wedding took us to new heights.
02
Most Stylish Bride: Dorian
The only thing more fabulous than Dorian and Oludotun’s chic golf course wedding was the bride’s custom two-piece bridal gown.
03
Best Bridal Glam: Shalwah
The Brooklyn bride gave us a headwrap moment we’ll never forget.
04
Best Wedding Venue: Kris and Talisa
Kris and Talisa had the woodsy wedding of a lifetime surrounded by love, trees, and memories that will last forever. Their rustic venue in Roxbury, NY added charm to their reception.
05
Best Groom Cry: Matthew
Matthew and Shakirah’s wedding Italian wedding ceremony gave us all the feelings.
06
Best Cake: Lucile and Dorson
The couple’s three-tiered wedding cake was a masterpiece, finished with buttercream and decorated with seasonal white flowers.
07
Best Reception Look: Barbara And Edmund
Barbara and Edmund’s wedding reception was dripping with style. The bride’s reception look was created by Winnie Couture, and we haven’t stopped thinking about this lace frock since.
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08
Best “Just Married” Photo: Gerard And Leslie
Gerard and Leslie’s Mardi Gras-themed wedding was full of love.
09
Best Socially Distanced Ceremony: Warren and Lauren
The love was on high and Lauren and Warren’s socially distanced wedding ceremony in Washington D.C. Friends and family drove by with posters and gifts to celebrate the couple. Too cute!
10
Best Party: Madeliene and Jasson
Not a chair was filled as the Madeliene and Jasson’s Miami wedding reception turned all the way up.
11
Best Dressed Groomsmen: Maya And André
André and his groomsmen opted not to go with do the traditional tux and we loved it!
12
Best Dressed Bridesmais: Joscelyn and Josue
Joscelyn’s bridesmaids wore these gorgeous green and gold ombré sequined gowns that stopped us in our tracks.
13
Best Rooftop Ceremony: Sharisse and Thurman
This intimate ceremony on the roof of the Mandarin Oriental hotel in New York City stole our hearts.
14
Best Altar Moment: Edmond and Mercy
When Edmond and Mercy came together at the altar of their heavenly Houston wedding, sparks flew all over again.
15
Best Bridal Party Portrait: Mills and Johanne
The couple planned an intimate vow renewal ceremony for their 10-year wedding anniversary, and we couldn’t take our eyes off this portrait taken with their three beautiful children.
