Second Chance Wedding: Claire and Matt Murrin

What did this second chance at love teach you that your first marriage didn’t? 

It showed me the difference between being in a relationship and being truly partnered. I’ve learned what trust feels like, how powerful healthy communication can be, and how strong love becomes when you feel safe and supported. 

Going into a second marriage, what mattered most to you this time? 

I was clear about choosing a partnership where I feel genuinely valued. Quality time, honesty, faithfulness, shared dreams, and a willingness to continually grow and put in the work mattered most to me. 

Why did you decide to elope instead of having a traditional wedding? 

I was never someone who dreamed about a traditional wedding. I knew I wanted a beautiful dress, but beyond that, I’ve always been drawn to things that feel more personal than conventional. Eloping felt far more like us… intimate, meaningful, and focused on the marriage rather than the production. Even when we had to pivot and replan at the last minute, everything came together in a way that felt effortless and right. I truly couldn’t have imagined a more perfect place or day. 

You still chose to wear a gown- why was that important to you? 

I’m not a traditional wedding person, but I still wanted the dress. Getting dressed up just felt fun! 

How did you want to feel on your wedding day? 

That mattered a lot to me. I had done a lot of work to get to a place where the thought of marriage felt peaceful, and on our wedding day I felt calm, at ease, and really happy. The fear was gone, and I was able to just be present. 

What was your favorite honeymoon moment that still makes you smile? 

One night we had dinner at a small Mexican restaurant at the resort, and it felt like it was just the two of us at our tiny table. We talked the entire evening about our plans, our dreams, and the future we’re building together. It just felt easy and right. He’s already attractive, but there’s something incredibly compelling about a man with vision, direction, and intention & that conversation gave me total heart-eyes. It may have seemed like a small moment to anyone else, but it meant so much to me.

And on a lighter note, I also thoroughly enjoyed ordering multiple desserts and eating them in bed together most nights!

What does love look like for you now, compared to earlier in life?

Love now feels calm, intentional, and deeply respectful. It’s built on honesty, accountability, and daily effort & not games or excuses. Being with a man who wants to keep choosing me every day has completely redefined love for me.

Why do you believe second-chance love can sometimes be the sweetest of all?

Second-chance love can be the sweetest because it’s intentional. You’ve learned from the past, you know what truly matters, and you’re able to appreciate the little things that make a relationship real and lasting. I had to learn that it’s not about perfection. It’s about choosing someone who shows up every day, building trust, and creating a partnership that feels safe, joyful, and fulfilling.

Finish this sentence: “Love found me again when…”

Love found me again when I learned to value myself, trust my gut, and let go of fear.

Hair & Makeup: Jaimie @Jm.artistry_bridal
Photography: Jenncaddy.com
Flowers: Derry Atkinson 
Dress: Fancy Frocks