Marti and Wade

05/26/2018

Birmingham, AL, United States

People and relationships have always been two of the most important things in my life. I knew that the day I got married would not only be about myself and my groom, but it would be about our community and celebrating something greater than ourselves. I always wanted the big wedding, not just for all the fancy showy material things, but for the sake of hosting a giant party and honoring our family and friends who played such a role in me and my future groom's lives. I basically wanted it to feel like a big backyard family reunion with a tux and a fancy white dress.

Fast forward to when I meet my husband. We met in Colorado, became friends, and fell in love shortly after. Family and community was the theme of our relationship so when it came time to plan our wedding, we wanted our day to revolve around celebrating the gift of marriage with our people. So we booked the biggest space we could find, a field in the middle of nowhere Alabama! We wanted the day to feel free and easy. We had a popsicle stand, s'more's going, the dance floor and the twinkle lights. It felt like the perfect "backyard" wedding. The backyard just happened to be massive :)

About two days before our wedding, the forecast projected 100% of thunderstorms all day. We were a little devastated, but we eventually gave up the idea of a perfect weather day and just tried to enjoy the weekend. Sure enough, God provided a beautiful day despite the forecast! It was a small yet sweet gift to have perfect weather on our day.

The feel of our wedding was classic and organic. String lights, outdoors, flower crowns, and all neutrals. I wanted everything to feel natural and not forced. My gown was Blush by Hayley Paige and it was perfect for the outdoors. Effortlessly flowing in the breeze, yet comfortable enough to boogie on the dance floor. My accessories went with the same effortless theme. One dainty bangle on my right arm, and the perfect drop dangle earrings. We went for the GQ look for my groom: custom navy suit, light brown dress shoes, and of course the custom pocket square.

At the end of the day, all of the little details came together perfectly and it truly was the best day of our lives. I'm submitting this in hopes that other people can see that your wedding doesn't have to be over the top in every way. It can be simple and sweet if you want, or elegant and classy, or modern and edgy. Whatever you choose, just make sure it's something you will love! No matter what, it will be the best day ever because all your favorite people are in one place to celebrate the beautiful gift of marriage.