A Surviving Love: Marty & Lauren
Survivors of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, U.S. Virgin Islands residents, Lauren and Marty met over six years ago on the island of St. John. Marty was working as a boat captain, his boat rental office nextdoor to the restaurant where Lauren was bartending. Lauren heard about Marty's crush on her, and he asked her to go boating one day. The pair have been together ever since. While their lives were filled with love, life as they knew it soon became a thing of the past after two category five hurricanes hit the small island, destroying lives and homes in its wake. Both Marty and Lauren lost their jobs and homes, but they still had each other.
Browse More Real Weddings

The ceremony was held at The Ridge, which features gorgeous views of Asheville, N.C.

Survivors of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, U.S. Virgin Islands residents, Lauren and Marty met over six years ago on the island of St. John. Marty was working as a boat captain, his boat rental office nextdoor to the restaurant where Lauren was bartending. Lauren heard about Marty's crush on her, and he asked her to go boating one day. The pair have been together ever since. While their lives were filled with love, life as they knew it soon became a thing of the past after two category five hurricanes hit the small island, destroying lives and homes in its wake. Both Marty and Lauren lost their jobs and homes, but they still had each other.

Je'Taime, Sugar & Spice Salon did Lauren's hair, while La Belle Visage did her makeup. Both teams traveled from out-of-state to make Lauren's wedding day dreams a reality.

Wedding day look details include Jimmy Choo's.

Lauren's Martina Liana Bridal gown fit her style perfectly.

Lauren got her dress from Martina Liana Bridal.

Mike DeSerio officiated the wedding before Marty & Lauren's friends and family.


The amazing flower arch was created by David Kimmel Design and served as a focal point throughout the ceremony.