Mackenzie and Ivan’s wedding at The Cliffs at Valley Clubhouse

Mackenzie and Ivan’s wedding was what the bride called a “finally” moment. The couple had been in love since they were sixteen and the best friends celebrated their marriage with an elegant celebration at The Cliffs at Valley Clubhouse. The timeless details included gorgeous white florals by Willow Florals, a long sleeve lace Mori Lee  gown, and calligraphy signage by Poppy & Scooter Calligraphy. Lucky for us Ryan & Alyssa Photography were behind the lens capturing the lovebirds and their beautiful big day.

What made the wedding special and unique?

The wedding was special for so many reasons, but I think mostly because I met Ivan when I was 16 years old. I knew I loved him then. Sometimes, that young, it felt like more people were rooting against you rather than for you, but I knew I loved him. My family loved him. He loved my family. We are best friends and I knew I wanted nothing more than for him to be my husband. Just being together since we were so young, growing up together and finally marrying each other was so so special and just a “finally” moment. It’s almost hard to put into words. I feel so blessed and so grateful we found each other so young.

Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it!

The gown was found at Dimitra Designs in Greenville. It was such a special day with my mom, my sister, and best friends. We tried on several, but I knew it was the one when I found it. The lace sleeves, high neckline, sheer back, and lace train were what sold me on the dress! It was everything I ever wanted.

What were some touches added to make it personal?

Personal touches that were my favorite were the wooden signage, done by Poppy and Scooter, the beautiful gray calligraphy place cards done by Poppy as well, the delicate Rosemary placed by the napkins, and one of my favorites, the delicious apple cider to accent my favorite time of year, Fall!

What was the most memorable part of the day?

I think the most memorable part for me as the bride was right before I walked down the aisle. I was so nervous but so excited to see my groom. I also remember walking out of the reception thinking how blessed I felt to finally be married to this man, and how grateful we were for all of my family and friends as they sent us off. I couldn’t believe the day was over already! My husband’s most memorable part of the day was “when the music started, how excited/nervous I was waiting to see my future wife when the doors opened.”

Tell us how you met and became engaged.

We met at a mutual friend’s house when I was 16 and he was 17! We started dating then and have been together since! We became engaged at our favorite winery.

Photographers: Ryan & Alyssa Photography // Coordinator: Mandy Powell // Floral Design: Willow Florals // Invitations: Swoozies // Calligrapher: Poppy & Scooter Calligraphy // Cake: The Bakery Off Augusta // Getting Ready Venue: Private Residence // Ceremony Venue: The Cliffs at Glassy Chapel // Reception Venue: The Cliffs at Valley Clubhouse // Hair & Makeup : Cotton Rouge // Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin // Bride’s Dress Boutique: Dimitra Designs // Bride and Bridesmaids’ Dress Designer: Mori Lee // Bridesmaids Dress Boutique: Dimitra Designs // Groom’s Tux: Men’s Warehouse // Caterer: The Cliffs at Valley Clubhouse // DJ: DJ EZ // Photo Booth: Complete // Rings: Diamonds Direct, Charlotte // Bride’s Perfume: Coco Chanel