“My dad’s favorite book of the Bible is the book of James. And in that book, it says, ‘every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.’ Emmie, you are my good and perfect gift.”

    —Ryan’s toast during their rehearsal dinner

Where do I begin? Emmie + Ryan’s Columbus, Ga wedding was such a treat. I first met Emmie last year at her sister, Caroline’s wedding. Little did we know, Emmie’s day would be just a year later!

If you know Emmie, you know that she is one of the kindest, sweetest people on the planet. She is bright, she is bubbly, she is fun, and she is wildly in love with Ryan. Ryan is her perfect match. He is kind, thoughtful, and he loves Emmie so well. The way these two looked at each other throughout he weekend — even in those quiet, calm moments — really underscored just how much one means to the other.

The day started at Emmie’s family home as she and her bridesmaids got ready. The girls sipped mimosas freshly served on-tap in an adorable vintage airstream parked in the driveway. They wore matching ___ dresses as they had their hair and makeup done, sharing stories from the weekend and memories throughout their years of friendship with Emmie. 

Emmie put on her incredible Monique Lhuillier gown with the help of her mom and sisters before sharing a first look with her bridesmaids and stepdad. Each one was precious!

We then headed outside for photos in her mother’s absolutely beautiful yard – it was perfectly landscaped and just stunning. Emmie chose a colorful floral palette for her bouquets, and David Benefield of Highland Hall absolutely knocked it out of the park.

Emmie + Ryan then shared a first look on the front porch, just in time for their muddy dog, Sammy, to make an appearance on the ROOF right above them! In all my wedding days (165+!) I’ve never seen that one – ha!

When we arrived at the church, Emmie hugged her sweet dad before tucking away for the ceremony. A dear family friend and pastor, Chuck Hasty, officiated the ceremony. They sealed it with a kiss and it was off to the Big Eddy.

Patti of P. Hasting Design and David Benefield transformed The Big Eddy into a colorful, floral wonderland. Guests entered under an arch of greenery + flowers. Flowers and ribbons hung from every chandelier. Draped greenery cascaded over the dance floor, and tables were adorned with unique glass lamps with stunning floral arrangements within.

Outside, guests enjoyed cocktails under a white tent adorned with more colorful floral installations and a beautiful custom abstract painting over the bar. Monogrammed, lucite stir sticks by ATTN to Detail rested in each cocktail, and spiked slushies proved to be quite the hit. It was incredible!

After a quick, private meal in the wine cellar (and a few sunset photos down by the water!) Emmie + Ryan were introduced and shared a first dance with each other and their parents.

They danced the night away in cowboy hats, heart-shaped glasses, and y’all – it was so fun. At the end of the night, they followed a second line (homage to their new, New Orleans stomping grounds) before running to their getaway car under a shower of rose petals. Cold sparks met them as they buckled in.

Emmie + Ryan, it was a JOY to celebrate with you both! I’m so happy for the two of you. Cheers to a lifetime of bliss!

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VENDORS:

Planning + Design – P. Hasting Design
Floral Design – David Benefield, Highland Hall
Ceremony – St. Luke
Reception – Big Eddy Club
Videography – Lance Holloway Productions
Bride’s Gown – Monique Lhuillier via Mandi Jackson Bridal
Rentals – Outdoor Events
Makeup – Makeup by Whitley
Hair – Trish King
Airstream Bar – Libation Station
Photography – Eliza Morrill