Landon + Samantha {wedding :: Montgomery, Ala.}

How did you two meet?

Samantha: "Land and I grew up one street apart, but we did not meet until 2014 at a Christmas party. This was fitting considering his avid love for Christmas-- one of the many things I adore about him. From the moment I met Landon, I was completely enamored by him. Six years older, he was just what I needed. His maturity, goofy dance moves, and adorable dog, Fox, won my heart.. not to mention his looks ;)."

Landon: "Sam and I first met here in Montgomery at a Christmas party in 2014. At the time, we were both dating other people, but I continued to find myself thinking about her over the next few months. I remember my immediate attraction to her from the very beginning. Her smile, laugh and personality were just a few of the many attributes I was drawn to. In October of 2015, I was blessed with the opportunity to take Sam to a concert in Nashville, TN. On November 14, 2015, I mustered up the courage to ask Sam to be my girlfriend, and we have been dating ever since."

How did Landon propose?

Landon: "I asked Sam to marry me on June 2, 2017. A lot of thought and planning went into this proposal, and without the tremendous amount of help from our families and friends, I may not have been able to pull off this big surprise. Sam was scheduled to attend a girls trip that weekend; however, a few weeks before, I called a few of her friends to inform them that I was proposing on this date. Her friends worked with me, and someone convinced Sam to wait and ride down to the beach with them sometime after dinner. Once she called to confirm she wasn't leaving until later in the evening, I asked her if she and her family wanted to go eat dinner at Wynlakes Country Club. I was already up at Wynlakes with the ring in my pocket. When she and her family arrived, I asked her if she would walk down to the terrace and have have a glass of wine with me. Once I saw her walking towards me, I could barely control my emotions. In my hand was a scrapbook that I had made with pictures we had taken over the years. I explained to her that these past few years were the happiest times of my life, and that there was no question that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her. At that point, with emotions running high, I got down on one knee and asked for her to marry me."

Samantha: "June 2, 2017. I still get giddy thinking about this day. With a girls beach trip planned, I got off of work with every intention of packing my bag and hitting the road. One of my best friends and maid-of-honor, Lindsay, and I were planning to ride together. She texted me with an excuse as to why we would need to leave later than originally planned. When talking to my mom, I dropped that we would be leaving later, and she suggested having dinner at Wynlakes. She told me to invite Landon, which I did, oblivious to what was in store for the night. He said that he was going to 'hit some some balls' at the club then meet us to eat. When we arrived I called him to see where he was, assuming he was late per usual. He told me he had a glass of wine for me and that there was music playing outside (two things he knows I am a sucker for). He wanted me to join him, but it was sprinkling outside, so I gave him the runaround. When I told my parents, they seemed interested in what was going on outside, so I followed them out the door. When I didn't see him, my mom pointed in the distance, and my heart stopped. There was Landon standing in the rain by a gorgeous cross his mom made with hydrangeas, my favorite flowers, on it. The rain no longer seemed to be an issue. Shaking, I walked towards him. He begin his gushing spill, while showing me a photo album that he had put together with some of our favorite memories we have shared. The next thing I know he was down on his knee, with the most gorgeous ring I had ever seen, asking me to be his wife. When I thought things could not be more perfect, I turned around and saw both of our families. We popped champagne and speeches were made. Mrs. Lisa told me we were going to have dinner at their house with both of our families, so we headed that way. Thinking the surprises were over, we pulled up to Landon's parents house that had cars all down the street and up the driveway. I walked in to a house full of our best friends and families. The night could not have been more perfect."

What are some things you two enjoy doing together?

Landon: "Sam and I love going to concerts together. We've probably attended 20+ shows since we started dating back in November of 2015. We also love spending time at the lake and beach with both of our families. Over New Years 2016, we flew to Telluride, CO and went skiing with her entire extended family."

Samantha: "Most of our nights are spent with wine and music. Whether it is listening to vinyl records, playing songs through the Jambox, or live at a show, we both love unwinding to music. We have been to countless concerts together from Sturgill Simpson to Leon Bridges to Grace Potter to my personal favorite, Red Hot Chili Peppers. Although I enjoy going to concerts, my favorite nights are the ones spent in the kitchen cooking together, while dancing to music playing in the background. While music is ONE of our favorite things, our families and friends are the most important to us. Family has always been extremely important to me, and I knew I would end up with someone who felt the same way. We are both blessed to have such amazing families that we enjoy being around and can look up to. I value the fact that we live in the same city as both of our families. We also love getting to go to the beach with my family and the lake with his. So to answer your question in fewer words: spending time with friends and family, going to the beach, lake, and concerts, and sipping wine cooking together are some of the things we like to do together."

Samantha--what's one of the things you admire most about Landon?

Samantha: "His vivacious personality! Landon never meets a stranger and has the ability to turn any situation into fun. It is hard to be in a bad mood for a long time around him."

Landon-- what's one of the things you admire most about Sam?

Landon: "Sam has so many different personality traits and characteristics that I admire and adore, but if I was required to just choose one, then it would probably be the love and affection she shows towards her family and friends. She would literally do anything in her power to help others in need."

What was each yall's favorite part of the big day?

Samantha: "My favorite part of the day was having all of our favorite people in one place. I will forever cherish that. Without our friends and family, Landon and I would not be who we are today. They are a HUGE part of the reason our day was nothing short of perfect! 

Landon: "My favorite part of our wedding day was when Sam walked down the stairs towards me. That was the first time I saw her in her dress, and she looked absolutely beautiful."

What's next for you two?

Samantha: "The future for Landon and I is open. We are thrilled to begin this new chapter of our lives together. We don't have any immediate plans, but we have discussed adding a new addition to our family-- one that has four legs and is covered in fur."

Landon: "Sam and I have discussed the possibility of potentially getting another puppy to add to our family. At this time, I think we are both just excited to be living together and looking forward to whatever opportunities come our way."

Vendors:

Bride's dress: Anne Barge

Bride's veil: Alex Woolard

Flowers: Graylillies

Hair + makeup: GLOW

Ceremony + reception venue + catering: Wynlakes Golf and Country Club

Grant + Caitlin {wedding} :: Birmingham, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Caitlin: "Grant and I met our freshman year at the University of Alabama through my best friend, Rachel. Rachel found Grant’s roommate’s wallet in the hallway, and after messaging him to get the wallet back, the rooms became best friends. 

Rachel and I were getting ready for a swap when Grant decided he would try on some of Rachel’s white jeans. Freshmen boys do interesting things but obviously, it worked for Grant! The first thing I thought about Grant was that he was literally the boy I had always imagined marrying. He had the long, swoopy hair, he was from small town Alabama, and he was his high school quarterback. Instant love for this girl! 

For Grant, the first thing he remembers about me is that there was an instant special connection. He said that from the moment he met me he knew there would be a special friendship between us."

What are some things you two enjoy doing together?

Caitlin: "Grant and I love hanging out together doing pretty much anything, especially with our dog, Houser! During the week, you can typically catch us going to CrossFit together, followed by binge watching Hell’s Kitchen. We love to cook and quote Gordon Ramsay throughout. When we don’t cook, I can usually convince Grant to go for Mexican food and a margarita! On the weekends, we love going to local breweries such as Ghost Train and Trim Tab, attending Alabama football games in the fall, or going to a concert-- especially Widespread Panic."

Caitlin-- what's one of the things you admire most about Grant?

Caitlin: "One of the things I admire most about Grant is his thoughtfulness in every thing he does. Grant is one of the kindest, most caring people I know, and he always makes people feel included and loved. He will have dinner ready for me when I come home from a long shift, he will text/call people to catch up with them often, and he asks people questions to really get to know them on a deeper level. He seems to know exactly what I need before I even know, and he stops me in my tracks during hectic days to pray for me."

Grant--what's one of the things you admire most about Caitlin?

Grant: "One of the things that I admire most about Caitlin is her ability to put others in front of herself.  Whether it is her family, friends, or a stranger, it never ceases to amaze me that Caitlin will always put them before herself. I admire that this trait is God centered, and that I see the Lord when she puts others before herself."

How and when did Grant propose?

Caitlin: "Grant proposed the weekend after Valentine’s Day (February 19th) in 2017. That weekend, I came in town from Augusta, and we had a very normal weekend. We had a Valentine’s date on Friday night in Tuscaloosa and went to a concert on Saturday night in Birmingham. On Sunday, we were planning to meet our friends in Birmingham to help them house hunt and have lunch. After a church, we got in the car and headed to B'ham. Grant was driving very erratically… but he told me he just had to go to the bathroom and we were running late for lunch. We even had to stop at a sketchy gas station for him to use the restroom, while truth be told, he was just calming his nerves. I called our friend Rebecca to get the address for the house we were looking at and basically led us to our engagement spot. Grant went earlier in the week to a home on the mountain in Mountain Brook to ask if he could propose there, and the homeowner said yes! When we got to the spot, Grant parked in the middle of the street (I was critiquing his parking) and started walking. He eventually convinced me to follow him, and I realized what was happening when I saw flowers and pictures waiting for us. Grant read me our Bible verse, prayed over us, and then asked me to marry him. It was absolutely perfect, and Grant had a surprise lunch planned with our family and friends afterwards!"

What was each of yall's favorite parts of the day?

Grant: My favorite part of the big day was opening the letters that Caitlin had written for me. Starting with our first date, Caitlin wrote me a letter every few months and gave them all to me on our wedding day. In some letters, she wrote about our wedding day and being obedient to the Lord’s will for us, so I loved reliving each part of our journey. Having one of my groomsmen sing 'Bump and Grind' on the stage during the reception will always be a highlight too."

Caitlin: "My favorite part of the big day was the ceremony. Every detail had a piece of us in it, which I loved. We both grew up in traditional Southern Baptist churches, so singing a hymn felt like home. I’ll never forget holding on to my Dad’s hand as we prayed before he gave me away, and with my grandfather officiating the ceremony, every word was so special and thought out. We also had the opportunity to privately take communion as our first act as husband and wife, so I loved that! Of course, the reception was an absolute blast-- from the band, to reunions with friends from all walks of life, to breaking it down with my bridesmaids on the stage!"

What's next for you two?

Caitlin: "Grant and I are excited to finally start a non-long distance life together in Birmingham. After two years of being six hours apart, we are ready to not have to say “goodbye” on Sundays! Grant has been working at Southern Nuclear about a year now, and I am about six weeks into my new job as a nurse at Children’s of Alabama. We finally found a church home in Birmingham, so we are ready to dive into a new Sunday School class. Other than that, we are just SO excited to finally be married and are ready to see all Birmingham has to offer!"

Vendors:

Ceremony: Bluff Park Methodist Church

Reception: Iron City

Catering: Iron City

Bride's dress: Bustle

H&MU: Danielle Ivy

Flowers: Flowers from the Heart by Linda Bearden

Band: 4 Barrel Funk, Music Garden

Tuxes: Jos A Banks

Videography: BEV Weddings

Boothe + Anne {wedding} :: Montgomery, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Anne: "I moved to Atlanta in October of 2014 and met Boothe just two months later in December.  One of his best friends was having a Christmas party at his house, and I went with a group of my best friends. At some point in the night, we were introduced by one of my friends and didn't stop talking the rest of the night. The following day he texted my friend for my number, asked me on a date and the rest is history! That first time I met Boothe, I thought, 'this guy is funnier than me, and I don't know how I feel about it."

Boothe: "The moment I met Anne, I noticed her sarcastic wit and knew it was time to one up her."

What are some things y'all like to do together?

Anne: "Anything involving food! We love cooking together and trying new restaurants. We also love a night in on the weekend to order pizza and play a good board game."

How and when did Boothe propose?

Anne: "Boothe proposed on May 6, 2017 in Atlanta! Boothe had planned a brunch for just the two of us, and then I thought we were meeting up with our friends afterwards at a restaurant in Piedmont Park. Boothe picked me up that morning and knowing the diva I can be, he knew I would not want to be wearing something so casual when I got engaged. He texted Catherine Brock to Facetime me and see what she thought. This was nothing unusual as we Facetime almost every day. She proceeded to tell me my outfit was ugly and she hated it, and that I needed to wear heels, white jeans and a cuter top. I rolled my eyes, and told her I refused to dress up that much to go to the park with friends. She tried to convince me I needed to be dressed for that night in case we all got dinner.  

Fast forward a couple hours, Boothe finally gets me out of my apartment, takes me to brunch where I trip on a step, and my sunglasses fly off my head and shatter. Following brunch, we walk to the park 'to meet up with our friends.' He takes me to a beautiful spot overlooking the water and asks his friend's little sister (who I didn't know who she was at the time) to take our picture. After that I tried to dart off because I was ready to see my friends, and he has to awkwardly hang back and pretend he hates the picture. You can guess what happens next-- he asked the easiest question ever! Turns out, my friends were never in Piedmont Park-- they were all on the rooftop of Ponce City Market and my entire family was there to surprise me when I arrived! I knew Boothe would involve my family, but this particular weekend they were supposed to be moving my older sister into her new home. You can imagine my face and emotions when I saw my entire family, including my perfect niece Anne Whitney, all standing there as I walked in."

Boothe-- what's one of the things you admire most about Anne?

Both: Anne's connection to God and her family are easily what I admire most about Anne. She has always put Jesus first in her life, and thus brought me closer to Him in the process. Anne values each of her relationships with others, and is such a loyal companion."

Anne-- what's one of the things you admire most about Boothe?

Anne: "Patience is easily one of the things I admire most about Boothe. This is a quality that does not come naturally for me, and Boothe's ability to exude patience in any situation brings me so much ease. Boothe is very level-headed and gives the best advice. He has such a selfless love and brings me so much joy."

**Fun fact: Boothe and Anne Perry got married on Perry Street! Street sign photo was a must.

What was each yall's favorite part of the big day?

Anne: "Our first look was easily the best part of my wedding day. I had so much anticipation leading up to that moment, and knew he would be able to calm my nerves."

Boothe: "My favorite part was when I saw Anne for the first time that day, and being able to exchange notes. She obviously looked beautiful, and if I had known she felt that way about me in her note, I would have proposed even sooner! I also loved that Brooke made me feel like a secret agent all day, especially when we walked out of the ceremony together."

What's next for you two?

Boothe: "I will become a Jedi in video games."
Anne: "Try not to burn the kitchen down learning to cook."

Vendors:

Venues: First Baptist Church Montgomery and Wynlakes Country Club

Hair and Makeup: Morgan Johnson

Wedding dress: Augusta Jones from Carriage House

Flowers: Elizabeth Fritz

Bride's cake: Vickie Kyser

Groom's cake: Emerson Leonaitis of I'd Eat That

Catering: Wynlakes Country Club

Adam + Hannah {wedding} :: Birmingham, Ala

How did you two meet?

Adam: "We first met after our weekly Bible study group from Shades Mountain Baptist Church went to Purple Onion to hang out and grab dinner. Both of us were fairly new to Shades and the young professionals class, and we were hoping to become immersed in a thriving Gospel community. Not knowing many people there, we sat next to each other, and after a few minutes we introduced ourselves. I could tell she was really shy because Hannah was on her phone some of the time, but she caught my eye quickly. After a couple of weeks of not seeing each other at church due to being out of town or work, I decided to invite Hannah to play in my annual college football pick'em via Facebook in hopes that I might get a chance to talk to her. Well, I got that chance. One night after Bible study, we went with a small group of people from Shades to eat at Urban Cookhouse, but we weren't able to talk to each other like we wanted. As we were walking back to our cars, which were strategically parked next to each other, I asked Hannah if she wanted to go out on a date with me sometime. She said, 'yes,' and the rest is history."

Hannah: "When meeting Adam after Bible study at dinner that night, I knew there was something different about him that intrigued me, and I wanted to get to know him better. I couldn't get him off of my mind. For several weeks after, I made an effort to talk to him each time I saw him at church in the hopes of getting closer. I am a pretty shy person too so this was way out of my comfort zone, but definitely worth it. When I saw the message invite from him to play in his college football pick’em contest, I was so excited. He didn’t have my phone number yet, so had to send me a cute Facebook message-- but it worked. Adam had caught my attention even more than before. It seemed to always be difficult to find a chance to talk just the two of us in our large church group, and I felt like I would never have to opportunity to get to know him. Finally, after dinner after Bible study one night, where I once again didn’t have the chance to talk to Adam much, he walked me to my car and asked me on a date."

How and when did Adam propose?

Hannah: "We were visiting Adam’s parents in Opelika as we often do, and things were going like they normally do on our trips down there: shopping, eating at our favorite places and looking around Auburn’s campus. We woke up that Saturday morning to terrible weather and quite the monsoon. Adam and I had made waffles for breakfast while his mom actually made us put down our breakfast, grab shoes and helmets, and hide in the hallway because of the tornado warnings. Little did I know while this was going on, Adam was frantically pulling out his back up proposal plan for that afternoon. After the rain started to clear some we decided to get out and about around town. I noticed at lunch Adam barely ate anything which is not like him, but I didn’t think much of it. Then he kept driving us to several stores to go shopping which was not uncommon for us either, but he seemed to be dragging it out. He finally said that we should go get some ice cream, and on the way he drove the scenic route past our favorite spot in Auburn, the Red Barn, which is where he had originally planned to propose that day. A few minutes after that I actually fell asleep in the car which worked for Adam’s advantage. When I woke up we were parked in front of First Baptist Opelika and I quickly realized there was no ice cream. He grabbed his Bible and walked me into the small chapel at the church down to the alter. He stopped at the front where there was a picture of us and hydrangeas, my favorite flowers. He opened his Bible and read some passages from 1 John 4, then proceeded to say some very sweet words. He got down on one knee, pulled out the most beautiful ring which he had been carrying in his vest pocket the entire day, and asked me to marry him. I didn't just say, 'yes,' I said, 'absolutely!' After he proposed, there were more surprises waiting at his parents house. He had invited many our friends and my family to join us after to celebrate. It was such a special day."

What are some things y'all like to do together?

Adam: "When we are not cooking together we always love trying new Birmingham restaurants, and we especially love getting ice cream at Edgewood Creamery and going to The Heavenly Donut Company. We also enjoy doing outdoor activities like going on walks, playing tennis and lounging in the ENO under the stars. Of course we are also perfectly content with a night in watching Friends. Most recently, though, we thoroughly enjoy shopping for and fixing up our new home."

Adam- what's one of the things you admire most about Hannah?

Adam: "It’s hard to pick just one thing, so I’ll pick two. Hannah’s smile can light up any room. If I’m having a rough day, her smile can make things so much better. She always knows how to keep me grounded and is such a great encourager. Her love of encouragement is a direct reflection of how she imitates Christ’s love. I also love the passion that she shows when she gets excited about something big or small. I love hearing about her interactions with her patients at work, and seeing her get excited about things like that gives me joy. Her joy is my joy."

Hannah- what's one of the things you admire most about Adam?

Hannah: "What I love most about Adam is his caring and humble spirit. He is so selfless. Adam values the simple things in life and he will go out of his way to make me feel so special, even with the smallest gestures. He constantly uplifts me whether it is with a scripture passage, an excerpt from a book or article, a funny video, or a corny joke. His thoughtfulness is admirable, and there is no act of kindness too great for him. I believe our friends and family would agree wholeheartedly. He has the most encouraging words and always knows exactly what to say to reign me back in. His love for me reflects Christ’s love for us and that brings me so much joy."

What was each of yall’s favorite part of the big day?

Hannah: "Well other than the obvious of actually marrying Adam, I would have to say our first look before the ceremony was my favorite moment. There was so much anticipation leading up to when we would be able to see each other, and I looked so forward to it that whole morning. I had been a little stressed that morning and nervous about how the day would play out, but the second I tapped Adam on the shoulder, and he turned around I felt so much more at ease. I will never forget that look in his sweet eyes when he saw me. I could not take my eyes off of him and he made me want to hold on tight and never let go. This was such an intimate and special moment for the two of us and one of the only moments of alone time we had together the entire day. It really took the pressure off the rest of the day to see each other before the ceremony and allowed us to both just cut loose and enjoy our wedding day. I had never felt so much love for this man and I could not wait to meet to see him again at the altar."

Adam: "I absolutely loved our first look. Like Hannah said, it really took the pressure off the rest of the day. I would have to say my favorite part of our wedding day was when the doors opened to the sanctuary, and I saw Hannah in the doorway. The music was so wonderful and seeing my bride walking down the aisle towards me was just such a perfect moment. I absolutely lost it because I knew this woman was coming to marry me. With tears of joy streaming down my face, I just thought of all the wonderful memories of us before marriage, and I couldn’t wait to start sharing our lives together. From the moment she met me at the altar, my eyes were fixed on the most beautiful woman in existence, and I was ready to be her husband."

What’s next for you two?

Adam: "We bought our first home together in May, and I have been living there since, but now Hannah has moved in and we are slowly adjusting to life together and getting settled in to our new home. We are working together to serve the Lord and each other and praying that our marriage would always be a reflection of Christ’s love."

Vendors:

Church: Shades Mountain Baptist Church – Vestavia Hills, AL

Reception: Rosewood Hall – Homewood, AL

Dress and Veil: Diane’s Formal Affair – Jasper, AL

Flowers: Mary Beth Rush – Birmingham, AL

Hair and Makeup: Frivolous Talents Hair + Makeup – Birmingham, AL

Bridesmaid Dresses: Bridesmaids Inc. – Homewood, AL

Tuxedos: Joseph A. Bank— Birmingham, AL

Catering: Majestic Catering— Birmingham, AL

Cakes: Dreamcakes— Homewood, AL

Donut Wall: The Heavenly Donut Company – Birmingham, AL

Invitations: Printswell – Birmingham, AL

Band: The Reunion Band – Birmingham, AL

Video: Jeff Bush Vidoegraphy – Savannah, GA

Getaway Car: Sweet Glide Vintage Ride – Birmingham, AL

John + Laura {wedding} :: Montgomery, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Laura: "John and I actually met at a wedding! I had just started PT school in Birmingham and returned to Auburn that Labor Day weekend to watch one of my teammates marry her high school sweetheart. At the rehearsal, I found myself paired with a handsome Auburn native who just so happened to be taller than me— tall bridesmaids, can I get an, "Amen?" He made me laugh and was a perfect gentleman; however, never in a million years did I think anything would come of it! We talked for hours over brunch that Sunday and the rest is history!"

John: "The first time I met Laura I immediately knew she was different from other girls. I remember being at the wedding where we met, and thinking that I was not going to let the weekend go by without asking her on a date. I asked and for some reason she said yes! Laura genuinely makes me laugh and is always up for an adventure!"

How and when did John propose?

Laura: "John’s family takes a trip to Pine Mountain, Georgia every spring. On the night we arrived, John suggested the two of us wake up early to watch the sunrise, a 'tradition' we’d started the year before. Looking back, I should have known something was up— he was so motivated to wake up early on vacation! The next morning, we watched the sun rise over the mountains, and just as I turned from taking a shameless solo-shot, John dropped to a knee. Ugly tears soon followed, and we spent a perfect day celebrating with both of our families at the cabin."

What are some things y’all like to do together?

Laura: "We’re die-hard Auburn fans who love great food, good music and time spent with friends and family!"

What’s one of the things you admire most about John?

Laura: "John is the guy making people laugh. He has the kindest heart and loves deeply. Early in our relationship, it became evident how adored he was by friends and family. He’s a genuinely good-guy who remains steadfast in his faith. He’s a blessing beyond anything I could have ever asked or imagined!"

John-- what's one thing you admire most about Laura?

John: "What I admire the most about Laura is her work ethic, her heart and her ability to bring out the very best in people. I learned quickly that Laura is such a hard worker, and I was able to see that by all of the accomplishments in swimming and her path she had taken to get into PT school. Laura has a huge heart and she loves and cares for her friends and family so well. Laura also brings the best out in people. I can honestly say everyday she pushes me and encourages me to be the best man I can possibly be, and I am so thankful for that."

What was your favorite part of the big day?

Laura: "Our vendors knocked it out of the park! We can’t thank them enough for going above and beyond to make sure our day was perfect. The first look I did with my dad was so special. Standing before him in my wedding dress was a dream come true! My favorite part of the day was then seeing John. I’ve never felt more beautiful, and I cry on command just thinking about it!"

John: "My favorite part of the big day was mine and Laura’s first look. I was waiting in the courtyard, heard her coming towards me and was filled with every emotion possible. When I turned around, I couldn’t believe I was looking at my soon-to-be bride on our wedding day. It was the best feeling and a moment I will never forget!"

What’s next for you two?

Laura: "We returned from our honeymoon just in time to celebrate the first birthday of our Great Pyrenees, Dirk! I am in my last semester of physical therapy school and will graduate in May. We are loving life in Birmingham and look forward to making memories as a married couple in 2018!"

Vendors:

Church: Frazer United Methodist Church

Reception: RSA Activity Center

Dress and veil: Maggie Sottero— I Do Bridal and Formal— Montgomery, AL

Florals: Graylillies—Montgomery, AL

Hair and makeup: Vital Beauty Bar— Montgomery, AL

Bridesmaid dresses: Sorella Vita— I Do Bridal and Formal— Montgomery, AL

Groom and groomsmen tuxedos: Joseph A. Bank— Auburn, AL

Catering: Montgomery Catering— Montgomery, AL

Cakes: McKinney Cakes— Montgomery, AL

Invitations: Kwik Kopyshop— Montgomery, AL

Band: 2nd Coming— Music Garden

Rentals: Brendle Rentals— Montgomery, AL

Hannah {bridals}

Samford University :: Birmingham, Ala.

Chad + Kathryn {engagement} :: Pike Road, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Kathryn: "We were introduced by a mutual friend at a Friendsgiving. I remember thinking it was fun meeting someone new, but was not expecting it to turn into anything."

What are some things y'all like to do together? 

Kathryn: "We love spending time with family and friends and traveling together."

How and when did Chad propose? 

Kathryn: "Chad proposed on October 28, 2017 at a little overlook area at Vestavia Hills Baptist Church in Birmingham. I appreciated his thoughtfulness in the simplicity of the night. He obviously said some really sweet things which ended in him on one knee asking me to marry him, but it was special for it to just be the two of us. We enjoyed dinner at John's City Diner (where we had been on our first date) and spent some time celebrating with family later that evening."

Kathryn-- what's one of the things you admire most about Chad? 

Kathryn: "Just one?! I would say that I admire his faith. If I could add a few, I would say he makes me laugh often, and he is a loyal friend."

Chad-- what's one of the things you admire most about Kathryn? 

Chad: "Mark 12:30-31 comes to mind when I think of Kathryn. She loves the Lord and genuinely loves others. She loves to give gifts, looks for ways to meet physical needs, takes meals to people and the list goes on."

Al + Elizabeth {wedding} :: Selma, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Elizabeth: "Al and I met on Tinder and after several weeks of going back and forth we agreed to meet in person. My entire world stopped the moment I first laid eyes on Al and I knew that he was the one God put on this earth for me to marry. Not to be cliché, but I loved Al from that moment. It would have been awkward if he did not ask me on a second date but now we are married so my gut instinct was right!"

How did Al propose?

Elizabeth: "Al proposed December 9, 2016 while we were in Chicago visiting friends. He was so nervous that he almost proposed at the Jim and Nicks in the Birmingham airport! We spent the day seeing the sites of Chicago and ended the day at the Chicago Cultural Center to see the world’s largest Tiffany stained glass dome. The Cultural Center is not a tourist hot spot, so we were able to wander in and out of the ornate rooms in peace and at our own pace. We came across a grand wood paneled room, and while I was looking out the floor to ceiling windows at the snow falling on Michigan Avenue, Al got down on one knee and proposed."

What are some things you two enjoy doing together?

Elizabeth: "Al is in agriculture, and I am in manufacturing so we spend a lot of time at work or thinking about work. When we finally have time off to spend together, we enjoy just hanging around the house just being together with our two dogs, Pilot and Wilhelm. We have also been very fortunate to spend time traveling together. In our three years together our travel highlights have included Chicago, San Francisco, Napa and Italy. I have enjoyed making sure this boy from Selma gets a little bit of art and culture in his life!"

Al-- what's one thing you admire most about Elizabeth?

Al: "What I admire the most about Elizabeth is that she is the most compassionate person I have met. She is kind to everyone she meets and just seems to know when someone just needs that little bit of extra kindness to get through the day."

Elizabeth-- what's one thing you admire most about Al?

Elizabeth: "I admire a lot of things about Al, and he is everything I could have asked for and prayed for in a husband. It is tough for me to pick just one thing I admire, but the fact that he never meets a stranger is the first thing that comes to my mind. Al is the friendliest person you will ever meet and is constantly telling me about new people he has met through work or just by striking up a conversation with someone in a store."

What was each of yall's favorite part of your big day?

Elizabeth: "Other than marrying Al, my favorite part of the whole wedding was spending the majority of the reception on the dance floor with Al, our families and our friends celebrating our marriage."

Al: "My favorite part of the wedding was seeing my wife and all of our family and friends so happy and having a good time."

Vendors:

Church: Valley Creek Presbyterian Church | Valley Grande, Alabama

Reception: Sturdivant Hall Museum | Selma, Alabama

Dress and veil: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe Tallahassee, Florida

Bridesmaid dresses: Vocelles | The Bridal Shoppe Tallahassee, Florida

Groom and groomsmen Tuxedoes: Lexden Formal Boutique | Selma, Alabama

Planning and florals: Shabby and Chic Events

Videography: Two Hawks | Montgomery, Alabama

Ceremony coordinator: Laura Whitney Howorth 

Catering: Joyce Rylee Catering | Selma, Alabama

Bride’s cake: Cake Designs | Montgomery, Alabama 

Groom’s cake: Joyce Rylee Catering | Selma, Alabama 

Invitations: My Favorite Things | Tallahassee, Florida 

Hair: Fringe Hair Experience | Anna Jo Bristol Ventry  Quincy, Florida

Makeup: Lush Makeup Art 

Graphics (monogram on koozie/cups/napkins/cake): Deeply Scripted | Shannon Hill Watts

Band: Creativity | Music Garden 

Chalkboard program at ceremony: Southern Swells

Tent/chairs/tables/etc: Encore Party and Tent Rental | Selma, Alabama

Hoke + Hollan {engagement} :: Pike Road, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Hollan: "We met in Auburn, Alabama. I remember smiling from ear to ear when I first met Hoke-- we just clicked automatically. It was like I had known him for forever!"

Hoke: "We met in Auburn, Alabama. Her brother and I had spent several weeks over the summer together, so I had heard a lot about her. When I finally met Hollan, I saw her from aways away and was so excited to finally meet her (my friend's good looking sister.) We talked so easily to each other, and I wasn't worried about what else was going on."

How did Hoke propose?

Hollan: "Hoke proposed October 14, 2017. He proposed on my grandfather's hunting field. My grandfather passed away a few years ago, and we were super close-- so it was very special spot."

What do you two enjoy doing together?

Hollan: "We do everything and anything outdoors! We love going to his hunting land or my hunting land. We love taking trips! We love going to the beach and the lake with friends!"

Hoke-- what's one thing you admire most about Hollan?

Hoke: "There are so many characteristics that I admire of Hollan, but one thing I think of the most is that she makes me want to be a better person everyday through her actions. Her kindness to other people, her hardworking mentality and thought and effort she puts forth to help others makes me feel very blessed to call her my fiancé!"

Hollan-- what's one thing you admire most about Hoke?

Hollan: "One of the things I admire most about Hoke is how he sees the good in everything and everyone. He is always positive and uplifting. To know Hoke is to love Hoke-- anyone who knows Hoke always has something good to say about him. He is an all-around good guy who has a heart of gold. Hoke is one of the most patient people I have ever met, and that is key when having to deal with me (haha).  There is never a dull moment in our relationship as Hoke constantly keeps me laughing. I am truly lucky to have Hoke as my future husband."

Mitch + Chandler {wedding} :: Auburn, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Chandler: "One of my co-workers introduced us. Her husband and Mitch are long time friends, and she had previously mentioned that she thought we should get to know each other. She asked if she could give him my number. At the time, he was working in Pensacola, FL so we starting talking on the phone and texting a little. The next time he was in town, he asked me to dinner, and we ended up riding around talking for a few hours afterwards. He asked me to go on a second date before he dropped me off that night, and neither of us ever looked back. I had seen pictures of Mitch, so I knew he was good looking, but my first thought was that he was really tall and had a huge smile that immediately made me feel at ease."

Mitch: "I was really nervous, but my first thought when I saw her was that she was beautiful. I could tell right away that she was a really sweet person."

How and when did Mitch propose?

Chandler: "Mitch proposed on April 22, 2017. Some of our first dates were going for walks or throwing a Frisbee at the park-- so it wasn't out of the ordinary when he told me we were going to meet my sister and brother-in-law at the park that morning before going to an Auburn baseball game that afternoon and a concert that night. When we arrived we met up with my sister and brother-in-law, Mitch said he left something in the car and would be right back. The three of us threw the Frisbee while we waited on Mitch. The next thing I knew he was behind me on one knee. I couldn't tell you what exactly he said. It was all a blur, but I know he asked me to marry him, and I know I said; 'yes!' We then went to my parents' house where he had planned a celebration with our families and friends. He even had one my best friends fly into town from Colorado for the weekend. It was absolutely one of the best days of my life."

Mitch-- what's one thing you admire most about Chandler?

Mitch: "I admire her loving heart and kind spirit. She loves Jesus, and I'm grateful she is committed to being my companion for life. I also admire that she always knows what to say to keep me calm and level-headed, and she makes me want to strive to be better."

Chandler-- what's one thing you admire most about Mitch?

Chandler: "It is hard to name just one because there are so many things I admire about Mitch. I most admire the way he loves the Lord and seeks to grow closer to Him. But secondly, I admire Mitch's enthusiasm for life. Whether it is loving me, pursuing his career or being a loyal friend, brother and son, Mitch is all in, all the time. He makes life fun, and he is continuously teaching me to see the good in everyone and find the positive in every situation."

What are some things you two enjoy doing together?

Chandler: "We honestly enjoy doing anything as long as we are together. We love to be outside so most weekends include a run, a hike or a tennis match. We both have wonderful families, so we enjoy spending time with our parents and siblings. We attend lots of Auburn sporting events together, and we both cherish our date nights whether going out to dinner followed by O Town Ice Cream or ordering take-out and watching football (or NASCAR) at home."

What was each of yall's favorite part of the day?

Mitch: "My favorite part was the ceremony because it meant I could finally call Chandler my wife." 

Chandler: "l loved having an entire day to spend with Mitch surrounded by our family and friends."  

What's next for you two?

Chandler: " We are excited to start our life as husband and wife living in Opelika. Mitch will still be traveling to August, GA for work often during the week, but we are hoping for less travel in the near future!"

Vendors:

Planner: Donna Phillips - Special Arrangements Party and Event Rentals

Ceremony: Trinity United Methodist Church Opelika, AL

Reception: Barrett Home

Hair and makeup: Jessica Tinsley 

Florals: Catherine Wayman/ C. Wayman Floral and Events

Bride's dress: Carriage House 

Bridesmaid dresses: Bella Bridesmaids

Cake: Robbin Fowler Sonshine Wedding Cakes, LLC

Paper Design: Laura McCarty/Marked 

Calligraphy: Kelly Sasser

Videographer: 1717 Cinema 

Caterer: Billy Lee - Terra Cotta Catering

Rentals: Special Arrangements Party and Event Rentals

Lighting and Draping: Special Arrangements Party and Event Rentals

Band: The Main Attraction Band 

Grooms Attire: Men's Warehouse

Tripp + Mary Ruth {engagement} :: Wetumpka, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Mary Ruth: "I had just graduated from Auburn University and was home for the summer before I started graduate school. I had only been home for a few days when a friend of mine had invited me over to hang out by her pool. When I arrived, I noticed Tripp in the corner, however, at the time I was way more concerned with catching up with my friends that I hadn’t seen in a while. Because of this, we left the pool having little to no interaction. I was pretty oblivious, but little did I know Tripp had been asking everyone there about me. Later that night, a bunch of people from the pool all met back up for dinner. Tripp left a wedding early in hopes that he could come join us, and I would be there. Shortly after he arrived at the dinner, he came up to start a conversation with me. This is when he caught my attention. I remember it being so easy to carry on a conversation with him. We talked and laughed the rest of the night. At the end of the night, Tripp asked me on a date, and the rest is pretty much history. Other than my three week trip to Italy, we spent every second that we could together that summer. Tripp quickly became my best friend. Looking back, it truly is amazing how the Lord is in every single detail of our lives. Tripp and I grew up in the same town, with many mutual best friends, and were in the same places on numerous occasions. However, the Lord was not quite ready for us to meet until that one day at the pool. We are both so thankful the Lord’s plans are higher than our own."

Tripp: "We met at a mutual friends house at the very beginning of summer. I just remember being almost star struck when I first spoke to her. I remember being so nervous. It sounds cliche, but I instantly felt like this person meant something to me. That is a feeling you wait for your whole life."

How and when did Tripp propose?

Mary Ruth: "Tripp proposed on May 12th, 2017. To start the night, we went to dinner to celebrate our anniversary. After the dinner, Tripp had told me we were going to stop by his friend’s graduation party. We had a little time to kill before the party, so Tripp made up some reason for us to go walk around the courtyard of the Nativity Church (the church where his parents were married). Once we got into the courtyard, Tripp turned to face me and started rambling and fiddling with his fingers as he adorably does when he gets nervous. At this moment, I started to realize what was happening. I was so excited when he got down on one knee. I just remember yelling, 'yes' and leaning down to give him a kiss. After the proposal, we had time to pray over our future lives together and everything that is to come. Both of us felt like it was so important to praise God for bringing our relationship to the point of engagement, and to pray that He continues to bind us together throughout our future marriage. After we had time to ourselves, we went to 'his friend’s graduation party' which was really a gathering of close family and friends to celebrate our engagement."

Tripp: "I proposed to Mary Ruth on May 12th 2017. We both grew up in the Episcopal church, and also both went to the same church briefly while we were young. We were celebrating our anniversary this night, and I wanted it to mean something-- but was also given strict instructions for it to be simple. After dinner we went to the courtyard outside of the church we both went to as kids (Nativity Episcopal Church). I proposed to her there because we both know and agree that any successful marriage has God at the center of it."

What are some things ya’ll like to do together?

Mary Ruth: "Tripp and I have fun doing absolutely anything together! (Except maybe watching the Iron Bowl, haha.) But seriously, he is my best friend, which makes anything fun. We both have a passion for sports. We love eating a good meal together, whether we are cooking or finding a new, fun restaurant. We love binge watching television series. We love refurbishing old furniture for our future home together when we get married. We love spending time with family and friends. We love spending time at the beach. We love anything competitive. The list could go on and on."

Tripp: "I didn’t think I would meet someone that loved food as much as I do! One of the things we love to do the most is eat and try new places. We both love sports, although we have very different opinions on who the best team is:  Alabama or Auburn. We can also binge watch TV shows with the best of them!"

Describe each other in three words.

Mary Ruth: "Tripp is selfless, hardworking and compassionate."

Tripp: "Mary Ruth is patient, understanding and spectacular."

William + Hope {engagement} :: Auburn, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Hope: "William and I both went to Auburn University. Our junior year, mutual friends set William up to go to a Halloween social with me. I made him dress up in a Great Gatsby theme costume, and although he hated the costume, we really hit it off. I don’t remember what exactly I thought when I first met William, but I know I was definitely crushing hard at this point. Every weekend, either William or I was out of town. I remember praying so many times asking God if William and I were supposed to work out, God would give me a sign or make it happen. God sure had a plan!"

William: "Hope and I met through mutual friends at Hope's sorority Halloween social. The first thing I thought when I met Hope was how much everyone enjoyed being around her. She was so kind and personable to everyone. And of course, on top of that, I thought she was beautiful."

What do you two enjoy doing together?

Hope: "William and I enjoy doing a lot of things outside whether it be watching him play golf, going on walks and sometimes runs. We also love to play games like tennis, and card or board games. We also have started cooking together finding recipes we both like. We also enjoy hanging out with friends and family. As long as we are together we enjoy doing just about anything!"

How and when did William propose? 

Hope: "Right after my graduation from nursing school in August, William, my family and I were headed out to dinner to celebrate. William and I got out of the car at Toomer's Corner and walked over to Langdon Hall where he said he wanted to take a picture, and I just kind of went with it. William then had me open a gift which was a Bible that had what will be my new initials, HMS. Neither of us are sure what was said because we both blacked out in the moment, I do remember he asked me to spend forever with him and I said yes! William then told me to go to the marked page in the Bible where Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 was underlined with the date. That verse will forever be special to us and a beautiful reminder God’s marriage intended for us. Then William told me that the ring was his grandmothers ring. Early in our relationship, his grandparents invited William over to give to him his grandmother’s ring if he were to get married. The timing of this meant so much to me to know that the people that knew him the best knew that there was something special about us!"

William-- describe Hope in three words.

William: "Ambitious, personable, beautiful."

Hope-- describe William in three words.

Hope: "Can I use four? Determined, outgoing, leader, handsome."

Zach + Lauren {engagement} :: Birmingham, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Lauren: "Zach and I met on his first night in Birmingham. Some friends from church were having a movie night, and he had been invited. I remember him being introduced to the group, but I didn't think too much of it."

Zach: "We met the night I moved to Birmingham at a friend’s movie night. I remember seeing her on the couch and thinking to myself, 'She is really pretty! I think I am going to like Birmingham!'"

What are some things you two enjoy doing together?

Zach: "We love traveling, cooking, movies, music, and of course anything related to Auburn."

Lauren: "Honestly, I have so much fun doing literally anything with Zach! Long car rides are probably some of my favorites because we get to talk about anything and everything with no distractions! We had a long car ride to move him out to Arizona in May, and it was awesome! Many people suggest taking a road trip with your significant other before you marry them to be sure you can stand them after being cooped up in a small space for a long amount of time! I definitely agree! In the future, we really want to travel over seas!"

Lauren-- what's one thing you admire most about Zach?

Lauren: "What I admire most about Zach is his patience. This is a virtue that does not come naturally to me. I always knew that I would need a patient man for a husband, and I have found exactly that and so much more in Zach. I also love that he is on my side no matter what. He is my biggest fan and supporter and is always so encouraging in anything I wish to do. He never puts me down, and I have gained so much confidence since dating him. He truly is my best friend, and I cannot wait to marry him!"

How and when did Zach propose?

Zach: "I proposed on April 2, 2017. I tried to surprise her after her birthday, but she caught on! We had brunch that we were both a little too nervous to eat, and then went for a walk on Jemison trail where I got down on one knee and for some reason she said, 'yes!'"

Lauren: "Zach proposed on April 2, 2017. It was a Sunday afternoon, and we had gone to Another Broken Egg for brunch after church. He then took me on a walk in Jemison Park and got down on one knee near the concrete bridge that allows you to cross the stream. It was a PERFECT day. My birthday was two days prior, and he mentioned something about a walk after church at dinner that night. I said I would bring clothes to change in after church, but he insisted that we stay in our nice church clothes which I thought was odd. I went the rest of the weekend wondering if this could be it, but didn't want to get my hopes up. So I made sure my nails were painted and had a nice dress on just in case! ;)

Zach-- what's one thing you admire most about Lauren?

Zach: "It’s hard to pick just one thing, but I love her fire. She is strong and pushes me to better myself and experience new things. She makes each day new and exciting. She is the best person I know and I cannot wait to experience life with Lauren!"

Jared + Stacy {engagement} :: Pike Road, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Stacy: "Jared and I first met when we were in high school. We were actually in the same physics class, and ended up becoming lab partners that year. As we were lab partners, we became really good friends and supported each other in our different activities and involvements in school. He was on the football team, and I played volleyball so we always would make time to go to each other's games to support one another. We remained friends for a year or so during that time, and as our friendship developed, we started dating."

How did Jared propose?

Stacy: "Jared proposed March 5, 2017. My friends decided it would be fun to have one last girls' trip our senior year at Auburn, and suggested the idea of going to my parents' lake house. I was of course all in, and was so excited to get away and spend a weekend with all of the girls. Little did I know they were all in on the surprise that Jared would be driving up to the lake as well that weekend and proposing."

What do you two enjoy doing together?

Stacy: "Jared and I have quite a few common interests. One of our favorite things we enjoy together is watching sports, especially Auburn football. We are both Auburn grads and went to the same high school, so we enjoy hanging out with our college friends and friends from our hometown in Huntsville. We also like to stay active and enjoy working out together. Jared wanted a dog as long as I have known him, so I gave him a golden retriever, Rudy, for Christmas several years ago. We love to take Rudy for walks or swimming and spend a lot of time spoiling him rotten!"

Anthony + Chelsea {engagement} :: Pike Road, Ala.

How did you two meet?

Chelsea: "Anthony and I both grew up in Montgomery and went to different small private schools there, but we didn’t meet until college. Actually, we had hung out with the same group of people in a small apartment every weekend for a whole year before even speaking to each other. We finally spoke to each other in August of 2014 at a mutual friend’s birthday party and I just remember how easy it was to hold a conversation with him. It never felt like there was a pause in conversation, and I loved that he could easily pick up on my sarcastic sense of humor. I think the most intriguing thing about Anthony for me was that he seemed to not take life too seriously, and I desperately needed that. For me, meeting Anthony was like a breath of fresh air. He made me laugh that entire night, and I truly felt like we were the only people at that party."

Anthony: "We first officially met at a mutual friend’s birthday party in 2014. We hung out in the same apartment for a whole year without saying a word to each other until the birthday party in 2014. We got to talking that night and I thought to myself that I could see myself with her. Later that night we went to Krystal’s for a late-night snack and that proved to me even more that we were perfect for each other. I remember thinking how pretty she was, that she has a bubbly personality and very fun to be around."

How and when did Anthony propose?

Chelsea: "Anthony proposed on May 29, 2016. It was a Sunday afternoon, and we just had plans to go to church with his family like normal at Frazier and then afterwards we were going to eat at Wintzell’s in downtown Montgomery. I was ecstatic about eating Wintzell’s because it’s normally where we go for our birthday dinners, not just a random Sunday. Well, we get to church and everything seemed normal, the church sermon was actually about marriage. Throughout the service Anthony was shaking his legs, tapping his feet, but I didn’t think much about it because Anthony has a hard time sitting still anyways, but looking back I’m sure the marriage sermon was making him nervous about him proposing in a few hours. So, after church got out he asked me if I wanted to go down to the riverfront and just hang out until his parents got done with Sunday school and I said sure because we typically do stuff like this. Well when we got downtown we were like an hour and a half early for lunch, so I was like goodness we’re going to have a lot of time to spare and it was so hot this day. I reluctantly walked down to the river with him, and he was so quiet the whole way down there which was odd, but then we got to a really pretty spot and he got me to turn around by asking me, 'Do you think that stick in the water goes all the way to the bottom of the river?' I started laughing thinking what kind of question is that, but when I turned back around he was down on one knee. Saying, 'Yes!' to him was the easiest question I’ve ever answered; however, I did not get my Wintzell’s that day because afterwards he had a party with all of our family and friends for me to celebrate. It was truly the best day and I cannot wait to finally be his wife."

Anthony: "I proposed on May 29th, 2016. It’s never easy to plan a surprise for Chelsea because she’s very nosey. Planning the engagement was very difficult so she wouldn’t find out. The morning of the 29th we went to church and the sermon happened to be on marriage. Little did she know that after church I was going to propose to her. During that sermon, all I think about was proposing to her and how much of coincidence that the sermon was about marriage. I felt like it was God telling me that I was doing the right thing, and that He was going to be at the center of our marriage. After church, I promised her that I would take her to Wintzell’s. When we got to downtown, I told her that I wanted to go walk on the riverfront before lunch to kill some time before Wintzell’s opened. This day just so happened to be the hottest day in May to that point, so she kept saying she didn’t want to go down there, but I kept asking and finally she gave in and said okay. She always told me that she wanted it to be a private moment between us. I planned for the photographer to be down there and that’s it. After the proposal, I had planned for all of our family and friends to come to town and surprise her. It was a perfect day."

What are some things you two like doing together?

Anthony: "Chelsea and I love to be outside together. Whether its hunting, fishing, playing with our dog or just sitting outside. We also love to watch any Auburn sports. Football and softball are our favorites, but we will be watching anything Auburn related. During the winter when the weather isn’t good enough to be sitting outside, we love to sit and watch TV, especially Cops. Chelsea and I love doing everything together and we always have a blast doing it."

Chelsea: "Anthony and I can really do anything together and have a blast-- we are just simply best friends so we enjoy doing everything together. Most of the time we love sitting outside or going on walks. We will sit outside, grill, have something to drink, and listen to music a lot of nights. During the summer and fall, we love to just go on walks with our dog and talk about anything and everything. We also love Auburn sports, mainly football and softball, but anything that has to do with Auburn-- we love it! When the weather isn’t ideal for being outside we just like to sit inside and watch TV."

Chelsea-- what's one of the things you admire most about Anthony?

Chelsea: "It’s hard to pick only one thing about Anthony that I admire because I truly admire all of his qualities. Anthony is a true reflection of Christ’s love because he is so forgiving, patient, calm, understanding and loyal. Anthony is truly slow to anger, and quick to forgive. I am so thankful I get to marry Anthony because he loves me unconditionally and has always made sure we have a Christ-centered relationship. There have been days where I have been anxious over something, and he has just wrapped his arms around me and prayed over me. I am forever thankful for such a godly partner. He is such a genuine person and does not ever take a single day for granted. Anthony can always make me laugh too. For me that’s so important because life is going to be full of hard times and bad days, but having someone who can make me laugh and smile on those bad days will make them not so bad. He makes me want to be a better person every day and brings out the best of me. I am so thankful I get to be loved and led by him for the rest of our lives."

Anthony-- what's one thing you admire most about Chelsea?

Anthony: "It’s very hard to pick one thing that I admire most about Chelsea. The one thing that I admire most about Chelsea is her loving personality. Whenever I’m having a bad day, she always is there to cheer me up and make me laugh. She will always do whatever is needed to help me and help others as well. She always makes the worst situations better. Whenever I need someone to lean on, she is always there for me. Chelsea is the perfect partner for me."

Elisabeth {toasted s'mores cupcakes filled with Nutella + War Eagle}

Elisabeth of Elisabeth and Butter had her amazing toasted s'mores cupcake filled with Nutella recipe featured on Draper James blog last week! See the Draper James feature here. Visit either of these links to get your hands on the recipe!

We also had the pleasure of promoting our beloved Auburn for the shoot! Hope you are able to try this delicious treat for a tailgate this fall!

Mitch + Chandler {engagement :: Auburn, Ala.}

How did you to meet?

Chandler: "One of my co-workers introduced us. Her husband and Mitch are long time friends, and she had previously mentioned that she thought we should get to know each other. She asked if she could give him my number. At the time, he was working in Pensacola, FL, so we starting talking on the phone and texting a little. I had seen pictures of Mitch, so I knew he was good-looking, but my first thought was that he was really tall and had a huge smile that immediately made me feel at ease. The next time he was in town, he asked me to dinner, and we ended up riding around talking for a few hours afterwards. He asked me to go on a second date before he dropped me off that night, and neither of us ever looked back.  

Mitch: "I was really nervous, but my first thought when I saw her was that she was beautiful. I could tell right away that she was a really sweet person."

How did Mitch propose?

Chandler: "Mitch proposed on April 22, 2017. Some of our first dates were going for walks or throwing a Frisbee at the park. So it wasn't out of the ordinary when he told me we were going to meet my sister and brother-in-law at the park that morning before going to an Auburn baseball game that afternoon and a concert that night. When we arrived we met up with my sister and brother-in-law, and Mitch said he left something in the car and would be right back. The three of us threw the Frisbee while we waited on Mitch. The next thing I knew he was behind me on one knee. I couldn't tell you what exactly he said. It was all a blur, but I know he asked me to marry him, and I know I said, 'yes!' We then went to my parents' house where he had planned a celebration with our families and friends. He even had one my best friends fly into town from Colorado for the weekend. It was absolutely one of the best days of my life."

Chandler-- what's one thing you admire most about Mitch?

Chandler: "It is hard to name just one because there are so many things I admire about Mitch. I most admire the way he loves the Lord and seeks to grow closer to Him. But secondly, I admire Mitch's enthusiasm for life. Whether it is loving me, pursuing his career, or being a loyal friend, brother and son-- Mitch is all in, all the time. He makes life fun, and he is continuously teaching me to see the good in everyone and find the positive in every situation."

Mitch-- what's one thing you admire most about Chandler?

Mitch: "I admire her loving heart and kind spirit. She loves Jesus, and I'm grateful she is committed to being my companion for life. I also admire that she always knows what to say to keep me calm and level-headed, and she makes me want to strive to be better."

What are some things you two do enjoy doing together?

Chandler: "We honestly enjoy doing anything as long as we are together. We love to be outside so most weekends include a run, a hike or a tennis match. We both have wonderful families, so we enjoy spending time with our parents and siblings. We attend lots of Auburn sporting events together, and we both cherish our date nights whether going out to dinner followed by O Town Ice Cream or ordering take-out and watching football (or NASCAR) at home."

These two are saying, 'I do,' on Nov. 4, and I can't wait to document it! -Brooke

Mark + Katie {wedding :: Andalusia, Ala.}

How did you two meet and do either of your remember what you thought the first time y'all saw/met each other?

Katie: "Our saying is, 'It was always you,' but that doesn’t mean it was love at first site. I had become friends with Mark’s sister Amelia through mutual friends and was familiar with his mom while teaching Sunday School at Lakeview Baptist Church. My story is we met Valentines night 2009 for the first time at a church scavenger hunt for the youth. A few weeks later, I texted Mark for his sister, which I am sure was a set up to get my number the whole time, and we began talking. We hung out a few times after that but after a few months Mark decided it just wasn’t going to work. Weeks, months, 7 years went by, and we stayed distant friends. We would text on occasion, go to dinner every once in a while, and maybe see each other with mutual friends. I went on dates, but I always came home and complained about how bad they were. They were no comparison to Mark Foshee. As time went on the text messages got more frequent, and we knew this time it would work. We began dating unofficially after a weekend at the beach in May 2016, and the rest is history."

Mark: "I met Katie through my younger sister, Amelia. She called me one day and said, 'Hey I’ve got a girl you need to meet!' The first thing I thought when I first saw Katie was “Noway this girl is single, she’s too pretty.'"

How and when did Mark propose?

Katie: "I had been eager for a proposal and bombarded Mark with questions and wedding planning on a daily basis. He patiently always answered with a vague time description and a reassuring, 'I love you.' Mark had promised that I would have a ring by my birthday, July 3, but I knew as May approached it was getting closer and closer. I had an outfit picked out and was diligent to keep my nails perfect. Our calendars were very busy, and Mark continued to point me to the middle of June for a proposal so I let my guard down and my nails be natural. On Memorial Day weekend, we had plans to meet my family and friends at our beach condo on Okaloosa Island. Mark was bringing the boat and we had plans to just relax. On Friday, I worked late, went by the grocery store, and unpacked our luggage at the condo while all the time telling Mark I would ride on the boat when I got finished. I was taking my time! Once on the boat, Mark explained that we were riding out to some islands we had discovered earlier in the season to see if they were a good fishing spot. I agreed but made sure he knew we were supposed to meet family at a local restaurant in an hour. We drove quickly, very quickly, to this spot. Hopped out of the boat and began looking around. Mark complained of something biting his leg. After about this third complaint, I impatiently told him to get in the water and wash his legs off. (He really just couldn’t get the ring out of his pocket.) I turned my back and walked away. He then began to call my name. When I turned around he had gotten down on a knee with a ring box in his hand. I was shocked and began to laugh knowing he had caught me off guard. He told me how much he loved me and asked if I would marry him. Once I said yes, he pointed to the bushes across the sand where his sister, my little brother, and our mothers were hiding. We celebrated with dinner and a weekend at the beach with both of our families. It was the perfect surprise."

What are some things y'all like to do together?

Katie: "Mark and I just love to be with each other. This works out well because having had a long distance relationship comes with its challenges. One of us traveled four hours round trip each weekend just to hang out for 48 hours. This means we had very few planned dates and spent most busy weekends with family. We do love being on the water, Auburn sporting events, and making memories with new adventures."

Mark-- what's one thing you admire most about Katie?

Mark: :The one thing I admire most about Katie is that she is my biggest cheerleader. When the work day turns into late night, she is always prompt to respond with a gentle yet full of confidence, 'You got this.' In those moments I’m instantly energized to continue and finish whatever I’m doing."

Katie-- what's one of the things you admire most about Mark?

Katie: "Mark Foshee is one of the most humble, hard working, selfless men I know. He truly lives out the command to love your neighbor as yourself. Not only does he place my needs, desires, and wants above his own, he does the same for his family, siblings, coworker and friends. He daily works hard to make sure we are happy and cared for."

What was each yall's favorite part of the big day?

Katie: "The day, from start to finish, was absolutely as I had always imagined: filled with family and friends, a beautiful outdoor setting, and the most wonderful beginning to a new chapter with my husband. If I have to pick one moment, it would be the few minutes of time alone with Mark when the reality of our marriage set in, and we shared in our excitement."

Mark: "Walking back down the aisle as husband and wife was the best part of the day. The excitement of the moment surrounded by family and friends who had traveled so far was a blessing."

What's next for you two?

Katie: "Mark and I just returned from an amazing honeymoon in Alaska. We are settling into lives not only in our new home, but in the same town for the first time in five years. We are excited about enjoying all things fall: Auburn football, cooler weather, and pumpkin season at Farmer in the Dell Pumpkin Patch, our farm."

Vendors:

Venue: Spicer Farm

Hair + Makeup: Utopia Salon & Spa

Flowers: Southern Simplicity

Bride's dress: The White Room

Bridesmaids dresses: Nordstrom 

Suits: Jos A Banks

Cakes: Robin Fowler / Sonshine Cakes

Invitations: Gracefully Made Art

Catering: Karen Chavers

Popsicles: Frios Gourmet Pops- River Region

Hudson + Sarah {wedding :: Birmingham, Ala}

How did you two meet?

Sarah: "Hudson and I first met in an abnormal psychology class at Auburn! We had been a part of the same college ministry while we were in Auburn, and Hudson played for the worship band on Wednesday nights, so I saw him regularly. I saw him in my abnormal psychology class and decided to go introduce myself and sit by him. We didn't get to know each other too well that semester but we were in the same major so we eventually started having most of our classes together. Our major was small, but dominated by girls (Hudson was about 1 of 10 or so guys in our major). During this time, my roommate was trying to encourage Hudson to ask me on a date, and trying to see if I was interested in Hudson. Hudson told her that I was, "too quiet," and when she asked me what I thought about Hudson I said, that he was, "a little too loud for me." -- but we obviously got over that, and we went on our first date about six months later!"

Hudson: "Sarah and I met for the very first time in an abnormal psychology class at Auburn. She came and sat down next to me on the first day and introduced herself. I like to take things slow, so admittedly, I couldn’t remember her name after that whole semester… BUT, we had a lot of classes together after that and we became good friends."

How and when did Hudson propose?

Sarah: "Hudson proposed on our one-year anniversary. We originally thought that we would be dating for another year or so before marriage would be an option, but God led Hudson to a job at Briarwood Presbyterian, so getting married earlier than expected became an option. A few weeks after Hudson got his job, he proposed (on our one-year anniversary)! We went to church together that morning, and we went to lunch at Amsterdam in Auburn. After we had lunch together, we went on a drive all across Auburn/Opelika. It was not unusual for Hudson and I to ride around and just spend time together, but this day it felt like he was taking me to the oddest and most remote parts of Auburn. Finally, he starts driving toward Kiesel Park, and we got out to go for a walk. We turned a corner on our walk and there was this huge wooden sign that said, "Will You Marry Me?" propped up against a tree. In front of the sign, Hudson had a blanket for us to sit on and there were picture of us hanging on strings connected to the trees. Hudson got down on one knee and proposed, and after I said, 'yes,' he read me a letter that he had written me. It was so thoughtful and meaningful because I could tell he had worked very hard to make that moment perfect!"

What are some things y'all like to do together?

Hudson: "I get super stir-crazy if I cant get out and do something active for long periods of time. I love going hiking, camping and basically anything outside. Getting to bring Sarah along for some of those adventures have made them exponentially more fun! But, as far as normal life together goes, we enjoy hanging out with our college friends, playing with our dog Abe and watching New Girl."

Hudson-- what's one of the things you admire most about Sarah?

Hudson: "As I got to know Sarah in college, I saw that she loved other people so so well. Sarah is continually putting other people‘s needs above her own, and she does that so well with me! We didn’t come into our relationship with pretty much any of the same friends or hobbies, but she has always had a great attitude about all of the crazy things I’m trying to get her to do! She is patient and gentle, and is teaching me to look more like Jesus in those ways."

Sarah-- what's one of the things you admire most about Hudson?

Sarah: "I admire the way that Hudson loves me and loves life. It's clear that Hudson loves the Lord because of the way he pursues me. From day one Hudson has made me feel cherished and safe. I've never had to question his intentions or his feelings for me and that has been a blessing. Hudson is passionate about living well. If Hudson has work that needs to be done, he is going to work to the best of his ability and he is going to enjoy it along the way. On the other hand, Hudson loves to have fun and he is always seeking out his next adventure."

What was each yall's favorite part of the big day?

Sarah: "I think the best part of our wedding was being surrounded by people who are so dear to us and having the opportunity to covenant ourselves to each other in front of them. Everyone in our bridal party has been by our side through different seasons of life, our musicians were some of our close friends/played with Hudson in the worship band at our church in Auburn, and Hudson's dad officiated our ceremony. Everything was very personal, and I'm so thankful that we have amazing friends and family members!"

Hudson: "The second those doors opened up, and I got to see Sarah walking down the aisle. I couldn’t explain what I was feeling in that moment if I tried, but it was perfect."

What's next for you two?

Sarah: "Hudson and I are now living in Birmingham. I'm working for UAB Medicine, and Hudson works with Briarwood Presbyterian's youth group where we're both starting to lead small groups for 11th graders. We're adjusting to living in Birmingham and being married, and we're praying that God would use us in mighty ways as we start our new lives together!"

^ Sarah + Hudson were surprised with their pup child at the end of their exit line!

Vendors:

Venue: Briarwood Presbyterian Church

Wedding Director: Deanna Morgan

Hair + Makeup: Abby Moorer

Flowers: Dean Hodge

Dress: Bridal Bliss

Catering: Moe's BBQ

Wedding Cake: Molly Perry

Groom's Cake/Donuts: Heavenly Donuts

DJ: Wayne Ingram

Matt + Lauren {wedding} Taylor, MS

How did you two meet?

Lauren: "Matt and I met senior year of high school on New Years Eve in Jackson, MS. I had the opportunity to dance in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade that year and had met girls from Matts's high school who were also in the parade. We became friends and kept in touch and before I knew it they had invited me to Jackson to visit for New Years Eve. Matt and I actually both rode in the same car out to this New Years party with all of his friends. We hung out all night, and Matt told his friends he thought I was cute. He made a bet to get my number, and he did. I did not know many people that and I remember just thinking how well liked and outgoing he was, yet how sweet it was that he spent his night making me feel included. We talked for a couple of weeks, and then he finally asked if he could come to Montgomery to visit and get to know me better. That first night in Montgomery being together is truly when we both knew."

Matt: "Honestly, the first time I talked to Lauren, in my head all I could think was, 'I am going to marry this girl.'"

What are some things yall like to do together? 

Lauren: "To be honest, I like doing absolutely anything with Matt as long as we are together. We love to be outside. I love just watching TV or often sitting in silence. I love riding in the golf cart on a beautiful day while Matt golfs. I love cheering on the Ole Miss Rebels in football and baseball with Matt. I love spending time with our friends and family. Although I study so much every day, the best part about marriage has been that even if I'm studying all night, it's comforting to just be in the same room. We just love to be together."

How and when did Matt propose? 

Lauren: "Matt actually proposed on New Years Eve, the same day that we had met four years prior. We were spending the holiday in Montgomery, and I thought he had planned to go to dinner at this nice restaurant that I had always talked about going to up at Lake Martin. We got dressed for dinner and got in the car ready to go. On the way there Matt was extremely uncomfortable in the car, wouldn't let his seat belt touch his shirt to prevent wrinkles, and drove about 20 miles per hour slower than the speed limit--I mean the whole nine yards of nervousness. We ended up taking a detour to go to a different restaurant to have a drink and watch the Alabama game because we had some time to spare. There is this outside chapel, Church in the Pines, that we go to in the summers for church that we were driving by. Still at this time I had NO IDEA that our familes had set up everything for the proposal at the altar, and that my sweet sisters were hiding ready to get pictures and videos. But of course, as we come up on the chapel, I am going on and on about how beautiful it is, so naturally Matt asked if I wanted to go walk around the chapel. I am truly embarrased at how clueless I was about the entire thing. The church is slanted down so you cannot see the front until you are actually inside. As we start down the aisle, Matt grabs my hand as I see the candles, old pictures of us and the "S" at the front and the next think I knew he was down on one knee asking if we could spend forever together."

Lauren- what do you admire about Matt? 

Lauren: "It is hard to put my finger on the thing I admire MOST, because Matt is everything to me. Matt is the most optimistic person I know. He still constantly sees the good in people, and the good in this world in the middle of the very broken world that we live in. Matt radiates joy in a way that I truly do not think I have ever experienced. He puts others above himelf daily, and cares for the people around him with such compassion. Matt truly is my best friend and biggest encourager. It is such an honor to do life with him and be his wife."

Matt-- what do you admire about Lauren? 

Matt: "There are so many things that I love and admire about Lauren. But for one, I admire the tenacity that Lauren has about everything in her life. Every day she has the motivation to push through, even in the hard times, and constantly puts herself second in order to complete the tasks at hand; her drive is what I need in my life. She is always making me desire to be better."

What was each of yalls favorite part of the big day? 

Lauren: "My favorite part of the day was seeing Matt at 2:30 p.m. From the time my eyes opened on the wedding day, all I could think about was I am going to get to see Matt at 2:30. I spent the entire morning getting ready with my best friends in anticipation of seeing Matt. We loved the idea of a first look. While the first look did not calm my nerves enough, seeing Matt made it real. After eight months of planning, seeing him was like, 'OK WOW, this is it!!' That first look will forever be a special moment."

Matt: "One of my favorite parts of the day was riding out to Plein Air with my dad on the way to our first look. I was somewhat nervous, and he did the best job at calming me down. It was so meaningful to have that car ride with him before all the activities started. Really and truly though, my favorite part was having to sit outside facing the opposite direction of all the cameras and turning around to see Lauren for the first time. I'm so glad we did that."

What is next for you two? 

Lauren: "Our life is pretty much unknown past August 2018. I am in the UMMC Accelerated BSN program here in Oxford that is one year long. I will be done the end of next july. Matt will be working in real estate, which he absolutely loves and is so good at. Honestly, after I finish school, where ever I get a job we will go. We are just excited to be doing life together!"

Vendors:

Wedding and reception venue- The Mill at Plein Air 

Coordinator- Kendall Poole Event Planning

Videographer- 22 Magnolias 

Florist- Fresh Cut of Jackson 

Hair + makeup- Style by Sarah Kate 

Bridesmaids dreses- Bella Bridesmaids

Invitations- Kwick Kopy

Catering- A & N Catering

Rentals- Details of Oxford