Covington Gardens

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Fall

Our Wedding

Our story started many years ago. I first met Blake when I was in college at UNCG. We were both on completely different paths, but seemed to be drawn to one another. Shortly after graduating, we lost contact. Fast forward 12 years later.. when I unknowingly moved into the same apartment complex as him. Blake was persistent in wanting to grab a beer with me. I finally gave in, and met him at one of our old stomping grounds.. Jake’s Billards. One drink turned into many more hang outs after that. Soon, I found myself thinking about him, and smiling at his text messages. I remember the first time we kissed. I was so nervous, but knew I had to do it. I had been thinking about it for days at that point. Eventually, I mustered up the courage to kiss him in our apartment complex parking lot. He, very obviously, was taken aback. Ya see… Up until that point, Blake had been very respectful of my boundaries, and where I was in life. He respected me as a person, and didn’t want to do anything to make me feel uncomfortable. After that kiss, I found myself falling in love. It wasn’t hard to see that this man truly cared for me. I knew it, my sister knew it, every person we were ever around knew it. It wasn’t long after that when he asked me to be his girlfriend while on a trip in Boone. The feelings grew stronger, and I started to realize I couldn’t live without him. After spending Christmas with my family, I knew I wanted to be with him the rest of my life. Blake knows me better than anyone I’ve ever met. Apart, we are strong.. but together, we are unstoppable. Simply put, we make each other better. We were meant for one another. I can’t imagine a life where Blake isn’t in it. He protects my heart, and loves me through everything. Since finding him, I feel at peace. I know my heart will forever be in the most perfect hands. ❤️

Our Story

Photos

Rich and Anne have been my parents basically my whole life. Definitely wouldn’t be here without them, and can’t imagine where I’d be in life without their guidance, and love. So thankful to have such a great support system in my corner! 

Rich and Anne Lake

Where would I be without my sister? Thankfully I will never know. She has been there for me through everything in life. She’s my go-to person when times are tough, the first person I call to share good news, and my absolute bestfriend. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect person to be in my life, and my Matron-of-Honor! 

Staci McDowell

Little red has been my bestie for a few years now. We worked together in Greenville, NC, and that’s where our friendship blossomed. Though I wasn’t a fan of her when we first met, Hannah stayed consistent with her bubbly personality, and light-hearted spirit, I had no choice but to give her a chance. And thank the lord I did. I’m so thankful to have this amazing, joyful, breath of fresh air person to be my bridesmaid! 

Hannah Hill

Blake met Brent pretty early on in our relationship, and the two immediately hit it off. Now, they’ve become close friends as the family gatherings, random cookouts, and trips continue. Though they pull for rival teams (Duke and Carolina), they both share a love for a good Michelob, and a good time. Blake can’t wait to have Brent by his side! 

Brent McDowell

Tony and Blake have worked together at UPS for years. Their friendship turned into a brotherhood. Tony and Blake keep each other laughing, and can always count on the other for anything. It was a no brainer, of course Tony had to stand beside Blake at the alter! 

Tony Lewis

Since day one, Peter and Blake have been so close. Though Peter is my brother, I am almost convinced he likes Blake more. Peter welcomed Blake into the family with open arms, and has been there for him whether it’s for a drink, or to lose to Blake in pool. Peter is the epitome of a good time, and a good laugh. We can’t wait to share this special day with him by our side.

Peter Lake

Kylie and I have been friends since college. Funny story.. we despised one another in high school, and were very competitive playing sports against the other. When college started though, we became inseparable with Kylie earning the nickname ‘Chief.’ Kylie is the other half to my sunset. No matter what life throws our way, we find our way back to one another. 

Kylie Ortonlani

CC and I have been friends since high school. We became inseparable during the 3 sports we played together, spending every weekend by each others side. At one point, she got an allowance from my parents because she was with our family so much. Courtney’s role in my life quickly evolved from bestfriend to sister. No matter how long we go without communication, we always pick up where we left off. She’s quick to drop everything if I need her, and will make our special day that much more perfect. 

Courtney Nichols

HLJ6! Hayley Lynn and I became friends through mutual likes.. and dislikes. Her pups became my niece and nephew, and mine hers. At one point, we spent almost every day together, making Walmart runs, watching Greys Anatomy, and just driving around listening to music for hours. Hayley will be there for me, no matter what. She has seen me at my lowest, and now at my happiest. We are so lucky to have her beside us on this very important day. 

Hayley Johnson

Tyler and Blake became apart of each others lives when Tyler’s dad started dating Blake’s mom back in 2011. They were close before then though. Blake and Tyler perfected their pool skills together, went to Emerald Pointe, and raced each other in their Honda Civic SI’s. Tyler and Blake may go months without speaking, but pick up right where they left off when they reconnect. We couldn’t think of anyone else to be standing beside Blake! 

Tyler Pedley

Blake and Dylan grew up together. Though they are cousins, they grew close like brothers. Dylan and Blake grew their love for golf together, and even lived with one another for a period. We are so excited to have Dylan standing up there with us on our big day! 

Dylan Willis

Wedding Party

Frequently asked Questions

Above and Beyond will be catering this special day! From hors d’oeuvres, and dinner, to a special treat at the end, Above and Beyond has you covered. For dinner, you have the choice between a beef tenderloin with a red wine reduction, or chicken cordon bleu. Enjoy!

Who doesn’t love food??

Covington Gardens:   7119 Racine Rd   Pleasant Garden, NC 27313 United States

Ceremony start time: 4:30pm

Cocktail hour and Reception start time: between 5:15/5:45

Amber & Blake

Amber & Blake

Photos