Younger Brother Asks Sister with Down Syndrome to Be Maid of Honor at His Wedding

When a man met the woman of his dreams, he immediately told her about his sister with Down Syndrome, Brittany. Years later, the couple decided to tie the knot and shared the delightful news with Brittany, followed by a heartwarming request that she couldn't refuse.

Chris Garafola was born in Vermont and considered himself fortunate from the beginning due to his older sister, Brittany Garafola. In many ways, Brittany was extra special, and the two developed a beautiful bond that only became stronger and deeper with time.

Although the siblings were only two years apart in age, their hearts were connected so profoundly that one couldn't do without the other. This unique bond paved the pathway for their future lives, inspiring anyone who came across their lovely story.

Siblings & Best Friends

Growing up, Chris and Brittany were inseparable, a "package deal" and the best of buddies. Chris considered himself blessed to have an older sibling like Brittany and never missed a chance to tell her how much she meant to him.

He shared an emotional post on Instagram to mark the special occasion with the two most amazing women beside him.

Chris said Brittany "always poured her love onto him, challenged him, and taught him timeless lessons—giving him countless opportunities to grow (quickly) as a man, and become the best BROTHER he could possibly be."

Meeting His Future Wife

⁣Although the Vermont native enjoyed being his beautiful sister's baby brother, life had prepared another unique role for him—one that would fill his heart with more love, positivity, and gratitude. Chris went on to meet the love of his life, Tatiana, and it didn't take him long to realize they had something special.

After putting a ring on their love, the duo began making plans for their wedding but knew they couldn't celebrate without Brittany's involvement. When Chris met Tatiana, he knew he had to tell her about his older sister and that she meant the world to him.

Telling His Fiancée about His Sister & Wedding Plans

Chris mentioned to his dear fiancée that spending time with him would also mean being comfortable around Brittany because she was an integral part of his life. Fortunately, Tatiana didn't mind having Brittany around and adored her with all her heart and soul.

Tatiana and Chris, both budding models at the time, mutually decided that they wouldn't tie the knot until Brittany could be there, and the only way that could happen was if she had her COVID-19 shot.

Because Brittany had Down Syndrome, her immune system was much more vulnerable than others, exposing her to a higher risk of infections and ailments. The couple put things on hold until she received the vaccine.

Surprising Brittany with a Special Request

Chris shared that his sister received her vaccine in February 2021, so he and Tatiana decided to wait for two more weeks to put their wedding plans into effect. In late March, the male model posted a video on his YouTube and Instagram where he and his fiancée were seen talking to Brittany on FaceTime.

Brittany displayed priceless emotions in the short clip as she learned about her brother's wedding date. Then the couple told her she would be there on the big day, followed by another special request. "And you know what I wanted to ask you? Can you be my maid of honor?" asked Tatiana.

With her hands to her mouth, Brittany burst into tears of joy and excitement and instantly responded, "Yes, I can." After that, the pair told their beloved sister that she would have a gorgeous dress for the occasion and a flower bouquet, and Brittany's jubilance skyrocketed.

Transitioning into the Best Husband

In April 2021, Chris, 33, exchanged vows with Tatiana, 30, with his adorable big sister, Brittany, 35, as the maid of honor. He shared an emotional post on Instagram to mark the special occasion with the two most amazing women beside him.

Chris wrote that Brittany's unwavering devotion and blissful presence enabled him to attract Tatiana, "a beautiful, strong, loving, independent and faithful woman." The happy man added that he wished to become the best husband, with love as the cornerstone of his existence.

Best Buddies for Life

The then-newlyweds revealed that they even surprised Brittany with a unique ring to make the day memorable. Chris expressed that it was an emotional moment when he saw his sister erupting into happy tears, which also signified her constant love and affection for him.

The proud brother confessed that he loved his sister immensely and always wanted to give her a happy, healthy, and secure life. When asked how significant it was to have Brittany on his big day, Chris responded:

"She's been my best friend since day one and even once I'm married, it won't change."

The Birthday Surprise

Following his wedding, Chris gained a life partner and a second best friend, the first being his sister, Brittany. Interestingly, this wasn't the only time he had made her feel like an inseparable part of his life. In 2017, he gave his big sister a heart-melting surprise on her birthday.

Brittany told her younger brother that she wanted to be a model like him, and Chris thought her birthday was the perfect occasion to make things happen. Soon afterward, the siblings did a lovely photoshoot that encapsulated their bond and made Brittany happy.

After their gorgeous photos went viral online, Chris shared a beautiful post summarizing Brittany's importance in his life. A part of the caption read:

"In my eyes, Brittany is one of the only things that is pure and perfect in this world. I am so blessed to have her in my life. She is my rock, and I love her to the sky and back."

Undoubtedly, the Garafolas make for an adorable brother-sister duo, and we're sure they will always love and hold onto each other, no matter what comes their way. Please send some love and support their way by sharing your valuable feedback in the comment section.

Click here to read another story about a high school student who invited a girl with Down Syndrome to prom, fulfilling his childhood promise to her.