Alex and Sarah Schilke, a newlywed couple, experienced an unexpected twist on their wedding day in June. While hosting their reception at the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa Hotel in Wisconsin, a tornado warning was issued for the area. The 181 guests attending the wedding, along with other hotel guests, were forced to take shelter in the basement of the venue.

Despite the unusual circumstances, a touching moment unfolded as Alex and Sarah had their first dance in the basement. A group of strangers staying at the hotel offered to sing and play guitar for them, transforming the dark basement into a makeshift dance floor with their phone flashlights.

“That moment of having our loved ones and strangers come together to create this beautiful moment and share it with us was so important,” Sarah shared with news outlet SWNS. Alex echoed her sentiments, expressing his gratitude for those who helped make their first dance memorable despite the circumstances.

The couple, who met four and a half years ago while studying computer science at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, had spent 15 months planning their wedding. They never anticipated that a tornado would disrupt their big day.

“When we were first told everyone was moving to the shelter, I was so shocked that I didn’t even process what was happening around me,” Sarah recalled. “And of course, there was a moment of grieving the wedding reception that we had spent 15 months planning.”

The situation took another turn when power went out, plunging the basement into darkness. However, some party guests braved the storm to fetch drinks from upstairs for comfort. In a further act of kindness, a family reunion group from a neighboring room offered professional singer Jack Jones to serenade the couple. He sang Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect,” as guests illuminated the couple with phone flashlights.

“It almost felt like walking through stars. I saw Sarah standing in the middle of a circle of people looking quite anxious,” Alex recounted about the unique setting.

After an hour and a half, guests were allowed to leave the tornado shelter. Surprisingly, about 75% of their guests wanted to continue the party. “We ended up continuing on the reception, finally began the speeches, and enjoyed a few more dances throughout the night,” Alex said.

Despite the unexpected turn of events, Alex and Sarah’s wedding turned out to be an unforgettable event filled with love and kindness from strangers.

Watch the video of their makeshift wedding dance below:

If you know anyone who had wedding troubles, share this inspiring story with them!

Source: Good News Network