The concept and intention of Sydney Marie’s book idea was what solidified the pillars of romance and wisdom that were explored during the project. Sydney approached Athena in February 2020 with a curious and motivated heart, seeking to publish her first book.

Sydney and Athena held discussions about the challenges couples have faced over the centuries, looking to the history of weddings and how the modern industry formed. Then, we looked at the present experience.

Sydney Marie photographed Athena and Kyle’s courtyard ceremony at their home on March 29, 2020. This date would eventually hold personal significance for many. Not only did it mark the beginning the the COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns, but the inevitable collective shift in global industries. Weddings and other life events that gathered friends, family, and neighbors became life-threatening.

More immeasurable challenges soon emerged, leaving vendors like sydneymarie.co unsure how the love industry would prevail. Cancellations, break-ups, rescheduled plane tickets, waning hope and patience plagued the hearts of lovers across the planet.

We understood the sentimental need to unite and celebrate chosen family. In response to this, the mission of Foundry fought to re-define how the love industry would proceed: weddings inspired by the couple, their values, and the unknown future ahead.

We understood this intimately; how planning a wedding amidst personal struggles, a pandemic, and the first year we begun taking clients was immensely difficult. Couples needed extra care these days. They deserved that.

Finally, we looked to the future of the industry; how should people’s love be received, what can vendors do to support couples, and how can love be authentically represented throughout the wedding event.

Sydney worked with all of her kindness, confidence, and might to advocate for meaningful change in her industry. This manifested in a hardcover book worthy of aesthetic praise, but moreover, is a true empathic and researched guide for couples. Together we created a resource for couples that will hold a special place in our archive forever.