On a crisp February day, the Lunar New Year for the year of the dragon no less, Chris and Barbara-Anna exchanged vows in a celebration that felt like it was pulled directly from the pages of a fantasy novel. They were wed after eight years together, nearly exactly to the day they first started dating.

The couple knew they wanted their wedding to reflected their love for all things cosy, magical, and medieval—so they created exactly that, right in their own backyard. “We’re both fantasy nerds,” Barbara-Anna said. “Game of Thrones, Sarah J. Maas books, and just the idea of cosy nights spent with loved ones—those were our inspirations. Manon Blackbeak (a character from Sarah J Maas’s Throne of Glass series) was the inspiration for my entire bridal look. Chris wanted to look like a cross between Tormund and Jon Snow from Game of Thrones.“

Their wedding was made even more special by the DIY projects, and involving their loved ones in the proceedings. As a carpenter by trade, Chris built the arbor which they were married under and the bride, who loves to bake, made the cake. Miko, Barbara-Anna’s brother, officiated the ceremony, too. “He really helped us rethink what we were promising to each other,” the bride shared. “It was intimate, thoughtful, and exactly what we wanted.” The couple walked down the aisle to Dracarys from Game of Thrones and exited to Abracadabra by Steve Miller Band!

Post-ceremony, the celebration transitioned to a a really cosy reception inside their house. “We’re both in recovery, so we wanted a completely dry wedding,” explained Barbara-Anna. “Instead of dancing, we opted for a slumber party vibe—pizza, tea, coffee, and games in the basement. Everyone changed into comfy clothes, and it was just so much fun.”

“I wish I’d been less nervous about it being different”, she admitted. “I was worried about it being too ‘out there’ or that people wouldn’t have fun if there wasn’t any alcohol. In hindsight, those worries were unfounded. Weddings are a celebration of a couple’s love, and should reflect the couple’s vibe and style. We actually didn’t even play the games much because we were all so busy catching up.”

“Go with your instincts”, Barbara-Anna replied when asked what advice she’d offer to future couples. “Reflect on what makes you tick as a couple and let that guide you. And remember, it’s your day—not a family reunion and you’re not obligated to invite everyone. If you want it small and intimate, do that!”