Sometimes you encounter people who are so clearly meant for one another it gives you chills. Everything about their story beats the odds and inspires you that love can conquer all obstacles. Such is the story of Karissa and Eugene, two amazing people who found each other even in the midst of unthinkable loss and grief.

If you have the pleasure of knowing these two then I’m sure you’re already very familiar with their story, but if you haven’t, it only takes a few minutes to realize that they are so unique and committed to each other.

Karissa and Eugene grew up in the same small town and lived only two houses down from each other. They had mutual friends, knew the same families, and Karissa’s father and Eugene even served on the local fire department together. Even with all this in common, they never met each other until they were absolutely supposed to. Sadly enough, that happened to be on the worst day of Karissa’s life; her father’s funeral.

After they met, Karissa said that Eugene seemed to keep popping up wherever she was. Neither of them were looking for anyone, but they made each other laugh, and ultimately were exactly what each other needed while dealing with such heart wrenching grief.

Karissa eventually joined the local fire department as an EMT/fire fighter, where Eugene was serving as the assistant chief at the time. According to Karissa, they goofed around a lot and just meshed with each other. Not long after, Eugene asked her out on their first official date and they fell pretty quickly for one another. Only a few short months into their whirlwind romance, another unthinkable event happened – Eugene had suffered a stroke. Luckily, Karissa was there when it happened and her training instantly kicked in. Eugene credits her as saving his life that day.

From that humbling moment on, they both realized they didn’t want to live another moment without each other, no matter what the situation or circumstance. Life was just too short. He proposed only two months after leaving the Neuro Intensive Care unit, and they’ve been anxiously awaiting their wedding day ever since.

It’s so apparent how much these two adore each other! As they exchanged their vows at their community church in their hometown of Cambria, everyone around them could witness what real commitment and love looks like just by watching them together. To say that their day was emotional, filled with love, and perfect doesn’t do it justice. It was everything they’d been waiting for and so much more, and it was such an honor to be part of it!

VENDOR DETAILS

Ceremony: First Presbyterian Church
Reception: Cambria Community Center
Florals: TheFauxBouquets (Etsy), Belle Gardens fo Marquette
Gown: LaceMarry
Invitations: Eclair Paper Company
Bride’s Jewelry: LilyKay Couture
Bride’s Shoes: Dream Pairs