Wedding Date on May 26, 2018

From the bride: Our ceremony was officiated by Dr. Kent Gallaher, who has been a mentor, professor, and close personal friend to us both over the past 4 years as Biology majors at Lipscomb University. He is the chair of the Biology department, and teaches a required freshman biology course, Cell and Genetics. Over the years he has endured countless questions from us on various classes, preparations for graduate school, schedules, and relationships. Over the Spring semester of our senior year, he met with us weekly in pre-marital counseling sessions. He asked us the tough questions and shared his own experiences as encouragement. Dr. G (as he is affectionately called by most students at Lipscomb), was unexpectedly diagnosed with kidney cancer a few months into 2018, and quickly was scheduled to have one of his kidneys completely removed. He exhibited so much courage and strength throughout his entire recovery, and was back to work in just a few short weeks, not to be stopped from making an impact on students for too long. We were so grateful to have him stand up and marry us on May 26, when he had just undergone such a serious health crisis and surgery a couple months prior. He continued counseling us and checking in on OUR relationship throughout the entire semester, and we will forever be indebted to him for his investment in our lives throughout the past 4 years. As I walked down the aisle, Brandon sobbed nearly the entire time (which has been my goal for my wedding day for as long as I can remember). We chose to say both traditional vows, and write our own. It was a perfect and happiest moment for us, and we will always treasure it. Following the most beautiful ceremony and happiest “I dos,” we enjoyed a wonderful reception at Rippavilla Plantation. We had delicious food from Gourmet Creations by Pam, a cake from a fellow church member, Terri Cole, rentals from DJs Party Rentals, Florals from Kennedy Occasions, DJ Michael Anderson, and even a photo booth! We listened to toasts from our best man (and my brother), Ben, the maid of honor, Bethany, and both of our fathers. We cut the cake, toasted with sparkling grape juice, and laughed through the bouquet and garter toss. We had a dance during which every married couple came to the dance floor, and were slowly eliminated based on length of marriage. Only the longest married couple was left standing, and gave us some advice. This couple just happened to be Brandon’s maternal grandparents! We weren’t able to make the rounds to speak to everyone in attendance, but we so enjoyed seeing those who stayed around to chat with us. As the night drew to a close, we exited to a flutter of dried lavender in the air, and were off to our new lives together. What a night, thank you to everyone who came to celebrate with us, and to my parents for hosting such a perfect evening.