Tell us your story as a couple.
Our story begins at a Christmas bonfire 2013 when a group of friends gathered to celebrate being home for the holidays. You read about “love at first sight” but it really does happen – we’ve been together ever since that night! The first few years were challenged by distance with Blake working in Seattle and I finishing school in Tuscaloosa. Three years later, underneath a beautiful arbor with twinkling lights, Blake proposed marriage to me on bended knee! With tears and a joyful heart – the answer was yes. Planning began immediately. April 7, 2018, Blake and I tied the knot with the help of friends, family and the best wedding coordinators ever! It was an absolute dream – I wouldn’t change a thing about our wedding day. Blake and I happily reside in Williamsburg, Virginia with our two pups, Cyrus and Bailey.
What was your favorite part of the planning process?
My favorite part of the planning process was being able to talk openly about a variety of options with Jenna and Courtney. They would bring wonderful ideas to the table and we would discuss the pros and cons of all until a decision was made. I chose every single detail of our big day with Mom by my side the whole way. It was such a special time for Mom and I and …she kept me sane! Jenna and Courtney made the planning so easy and let’s not forget the famous Leslie Gilbert as she orchestrated the wedding day without a ripple! They had a plan for everything – rain, sleet or snow – they were ready to go!!
What was your favorite moment of the day?
Favorite details abound about our wedding day, but one particular memory is my favorite. I’ve had many special people who loved and molded me through the years. One such person was my Grandfather, S.M. Broughton - we called him Pop for short. Pop had a silver cross that he kept near and dear to him at all times. Another such person was my Grandmother, Betty Carolyn McDonnieal Kittrell– we called her Memaw. Memaw loved a good handkerchief but she had some favorites that she always carried to church or special occasions such as weddings or funerals. One of her favorites was an initialed handkerchief embroidered in light blue. To my surprise, Mom carefully stitched both treasures inside the skirt of my wedding dress so these two important people were beside me the whole way!
If you could give advice to another bride in the process of planning her wedding what would it be?
I would advise every bride to take a deep breath and love every second of the planning process! I know it can be stressful but take a minute to enjoy where you are because your big day will be here before you know it!