Deirdre and JD were married at The Sewanee Inn, a location that holds a special place in both of their hearts. Their sweet wedding was a wonderful opportunity to bring together family, and plenty of old college friends for a reunion of sorts that was focused on celebrating the union of this sweet pair. We love the delicate details and colors of the special day and know you will too, especially thanks to the gorgeous images by Cortney Smith Photography.
What made the wedding special and unique?
The location. The Sewanee Inn holds a special place in both of our hearts so it was an obvious choice of where we would get married. It was an excellent opportunity for our friends from college to return and we loved sharing Sewanee with all of our friends and families who had heard us rave about it for years.
Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it!
My mom was coming into town for a weekend and I made a last minute appointment to look at dresses. I wanted a dress that was traditional yet with modern flair. And my Anna Maier gown was just that! The Chantilly lace was piped in a way that gave it new dimension — and thus crated a modern twist on an ancient lace.
What were some touches added to make it personal?
We were very focused on not losing sight of the most important aspect of the day — the sacrament of marriage. We think that showed through in the atmosphere that day and was a reflection of our personalities and priorities. We also wanted to have an awesome band so that everyone would dance the night away in celebration — which we think we accomplished!
What was the memorable part of the day?
Getting married, of course! But more specifically, during the homily our officiant (who is also JD’s godfather) asked us to turn around and look at all our guests that had gathered in the chapel to witness our special day. It was so touching (and slightly emotional!) to see the faces of everyone who had traveled to Sewanee looking back at us — and to realize how each of them fit into our lives in such special ways. It’s so easy to get caught up in the day that having a moment to reflect on the love that surrounded us was spectacular.
Tell us how you met and became engaged.
We met while students at Sewanee and continued our relationship post college while living in DC. JD popped the question early on a Saturday morning (while shoving the ring in my hand) while drinking coffee on my roof deck before a hike that never actually occurred. JD’s original plan was to propose during the hike, but his excitement got the best of him and he just couldn’t wait any longer!
Vendors: Photography: Cortney Smith Photography // Event Planner: Events by On Stage and Off, LLC // Reception Venue: The Sewanee Inn // Hair Stylist: Hair Pavillion // Dress Designer: Hitched Salon // Caterer: IvyWild Restaurant & Catering // Floral Designer: Soulflowers // Band: The Atlanta Showstoppers