The Fitzgerald

Rehearsal Dinner

Caitlyn Farms

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Our Wedding

We first crossed paths in second grade — just kids sharing classrooms from 2nd through 4th grade. Life took us in different directions after that, but God had other plans.The summer before ninth grade, we unexpectedly reunited at a church camp on the Anderson University campus. There was a spark — subtle but undeniable. But once again, time and distance pulled us apart.Two more years passed, and we bumped into each other again the summer before junior year. Still, nothing came of it — not yet. But in the spring of our junior year, something shifted. Copeland and I began to talk again. My high school had football games in the spring because of Covid. Copeland started coming to games to watch me cheer, and that year, we went to prom together.On April 30th, 2021, we started dating. From that moment on, we were inseparable — cheering each other on through soccer matches, basketball games, dance competitions, football games, and school plays.After graduation, we faced our greatest test: a five-hour distance. I went to Anderson University — the very place we had reconnected years before — and Copeland headed to NC State. Four years of long-distance taught us how to live apart while staying deeply connected. It wasn't easy, but it was worth every mile, every late-night call, and every tearful goodbye.On June 14th, 2025, Copeland proposed. If there’s one word that defines our relationship, it’s wait. From the very beginning, God has been gently teaching us patience — reminding us that His timing is always perfect. The waiting shaped us, refined us, and prepared us for the life we’re stepping into now. We’d do it all again — every season of waiting — just to find each other once more.Now, we’re done watching each other disappear in rearview mirrors. The long goodbyes are behind us. Ahead lies a lifetime of choosing each other, every single day. All the glory goes to God — the true author of our story, who wrote it far better than we ever could. The wait was worth it.So here’s to forever!

Our Love Story

Our Story

Photos

Caroline Andress

Lilah Aalderink

Luke Petree

Lillie Connet 

Julia Gillespie

Kate Turnipseed

Rachel Drafts

Callie Cox

Caroline Petree

Caryle Goodson

Brantley Morgan

Riley Marshall

Evan Fender

Kye Andress

Ben Huitt

Hunt Clark

Will Smith

Eli Montgomery

Wedding Party

We kindly ask guests to dress in semi-formal attire.Women: Summer dresses or skirts are perfect.Men: Slacks and dress shirts or suits are ideal.It may be warm, so feel free to choose breathable fabrics and comfortable styles. 👠 Tip for the Ladies: Since part of the venue features cobblestone flooring, wedge heels or block heels are recommended for easier walking.

Dress Code

This beautiful hotel has rooms blocked for our group. To make a reservation, please call&nbsp;(828) 393-3047—online booking will not show availability. The group rate starts at&nbsp;$198 per night. Both&nbsp;rooms and villas&nbsp;are available.

Bright's Creek Golf & Equestrian Community

Tryon Resort

The Orchard Inn Boutique Hotel & Spa

The Saluda Inn

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Hendersonville Flat Rock

Home2 Suites by Hilton Hendersonville

Travel

Start your day right with a delicious breakfast or lunch at Wakey Monkey—the best café in Saluda, NC! Owned by Eric and Melissa Gillespie, parents of my bridesmaid Julia, it’s a place full of flavor and heart.Fun Fact: Copeland and I ate here the morning of the proposal!

Wakey Monkey Saluda

Experience the thrill of rafting or kayaking along the scenic Green River.

Green River Adventures - DOWNTOWN

Discover charming shops and delicious dining in this welcoming small-town setting. Treat yourself to a refreshing frozen yogurt from Sweet Frog—a beloved favorite of ours.

Downtown Hendersonville 

Right off the Ecusta Trail, Trailside Brewery blends the best of local flavor and community spirit. Enjoy craft brews, music and tasty food in their open-air or cozy indoor spaces.

Trailside Brewing Co

Expect panoramic overlooks, waterfalls, historic sites, and hiking trails every few miles. The Parkway stretches 469 miles from Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Biltmore Estate is a grand, 8,000-acre estate in Asheville, North Carolina, featuring America’s largest privately owned home, stunning gardens, a winery, and rich Gilded Age history.

Biltmore

The Ecusta Trail transforms a former rail line into a 19.4-mile greenway between Hendersonville and Brevard, NC—now with 6 miles open for walking, biking and running.

Ecusta Trail Eastern Trailhead

Tryon International in Mill Spring, NC is a premier destination for horse lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering top-tier equestrian events, dining, shopping, lodging, and year-round family fun in the Blue Ridge Foothills.

Things to Do

Registry

Alayna & Copeland