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By NATHAN HOWELL | Special to the Reporter

HELENA – When Lauren Padgett said yes to marrying her boyfriend Josh Sims, she likely did not expect that many of her wedding plans would face interference from a global pandemic.

However, with some creative thinking in place from friends and family she was able to participate in some of the traditional events that come along with getting married. One of these included a drive-thru bridal shower.

“With COVID happening, they were supposed to have a shower back in May, however they had to postpone it. Their wedding is now planned for July 11,” explained her mother Stephanie McCune. “That date is approaching fast and we just wanted to do something where she could see old friends and family. They opted to do the drive-thru shower at the church, because it had a nice area for it.”

Padgett’s friends and family set up the event at Helena United Methodist Church on the morning of June 14, and waited for guests to drive bye to celebrate the special occasion.

Several people showed up and greeted Padgett with gifts and hugs as they caught up with each other since they had very limited contact over the past few months.

“I am really excited to get to see everyone, even if it is from a distance,” Padgett said. “I held a virtual shower, but it was t the same or as personal as seeing everyone in person. It’s definitely weird, but it’s still great to be able to connect.”

According to her mother, Lauren had just graduated from Jacksonville State University, but was not able to have an actual graduation ceremony due to the pandemic. There was undoubtedly some uncertainty as to how her wedding plans would play out as well.

So for Lauren, this event was definitely a welcome bit of light and connection during a difficult time.