Rehearsal Dinner

Howe Farms Wedding and Event Venue

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

The love story of Carley and Robert began like most great love stories in the 21st century — the two met for a summer dinner after initially meeting online through Bumble. After a long shift at the hospital, Carley was tired and hesitant to go on a date. She decided not to cancel and met the guy who had sparked her interest. Robert, who had no idea where to go or what to do in Chattanooga, agreed to meet Carley at Stir in the Chattanooga Choo-Choo. He showed up late, not knowing where to go or where to park. She began to wonder if this was a good idea. Throughout dinner, Carley thought Robert was not into her at all and he surprised her when he asked what the two should do next. He suggested a small arcade he had found in his attempt to get to where he was supposed to meet his would-be bride. Sparking a little competition and a budding love, the two split games of Skee-Ball and basketball. Carley won in Skee-Ball by a mile. Robert won by one shot to zero in basketball. After drinks and dessert back at the restaurant, Robert walked Carley to her car, where she insisted on a goodnight kiss. The rest is history.

How We Met

Many attempts were made at a proposal but one after another fell through. Unknown to Robert how long it took to make a ring, he meant to give the love of his life a new shiny piece of jewelry at Christmas.The ring came in January, just before the two were set to go to Tampa to meet Carley’s Maid of Honor Rachel and her husband, Jeremy, during the&nbsp;Gasparilla Pirate Festival. This time, Robert’s bank got in the way not letting him make a large withdrawal before closing that day.Finally, with the ring secured, Robert—bound and determined—took Carley to her favorite restaurant in Chattanooga, Public House. He dragged her to ice cream following dinner before meeting their friends for drinks along the Tennessee River. Reluctant to neglect their friends, Carley suggested they meet up with their friends before dessert. Robert told a little white lie saying their friends had not made it yet.The two shared their treat and a walk over the Walnut Street Bridge. She had a string on her foot which was the perfect time for Robert to get down on one knee. She said, “Oh my God, this is happening, you're doing this now!?.” He told her "I don't want to be with anyone else" and proposed with a gorgeous ring. Of course she said YES! They met their friends after the proposal and champagne was popped!

The Proposal

Our Story

Photos

Carley and Rachel's friendship dates back to nursing school, where they first crossed paths and quickly formed a bond that would last a lifetime. From long study sessions to late-night dance parties, they supported each other through the challenges of nursing school, but it wasn’t just academics that brought them together. Their shared obsession with shows like Gilmore Girls and Pretty Little Liars resulted in countless binge-watching sessions and thoughtful conversations, deepening their connection even more. 
Since those early days in nursing school, Rachel and Carley have remained inseparable. Whether it’s lounging on the beach or navigating the ups and downs of life, their friendship has only grown stronger. Carley is so excited to have Rachel by her side on this special day, as she’s not just a bridesmaid, but a true friend who has been there through it all.

Rachel Augustine

Thrasher met the groom in 2001 at Camp Buck Toms in Rockwood, where they were both part of an elite underground Scouting club called "The Fireless Scouts" (a group dedicated to finding new and creative ways to not build fires). They bonded immediately after Thrasher, who was using a compass upside down, led them on a 12-day journey through the woods, resulting in a whole new understanding of the term "lost."

Since that fateful summer, Thrasher and the groom have been inseparable, embarking on legendary quests, including the time they accidentally started a cult while trying to sell homemade candles at a flea market (don't ask). Thrasher was the mastermind behind the ill-fated “Extreme College Football Saturday of 2012,” which, to this day, is still a legal matter.

A man of many talents, Thrasher also invented a new sport called "Competitive Couch Surfing," while living on a mattress in Bob and Alsip’s first apartment.

While his life is a series of unexplained and largely fictional events, Thrasher’s loyalty to the groom is unmatched. He’s been there for every questionable decision, every summer baseball road trip, and every mysterious “lost weekend” that no one talks about. He’s thrilled to be standing by his best friend’s side on the big day, mostly because he believes there’s a free open bar and he’s definitely going to be the first one there.

Aaron Trasher

Carley and Amber’s friendship began on their very first day of hospital orientation, where they essentially wore identical outfits. Amber hugged Carley and rest is history. Their bond was instant, built on shared experiences, laughter, and a mutual understanding of the demands and rewards of their work.
Since that first day, Amber and Carley have been by each other’s side through every challenge and triumph, both professionally and personally. Whether they’re supporting each other through long shifts or sharing stories outside of work, their friendship has grown into something truly special. Carley is honored to have Amber stand next to her on this important day, celebrating not only their professional partnership but the deep friendship that has flourished over the years.

Amber Dills

Alsip’s first encounter with the groom was in 2001 at Boy Scout Camp, where they formed a bond over their shared passion for getting hopelessly lost and breaking all the camp’s rules (accidentally, of course).

Over the years, Alsip and the groom have been through it all. From the time they accidentally started a flash mob in the middle of a nature hike (and somehow convinced the entire camp to join), to the unforgettable “Operation Pull the Saturn Ion out of the Ditch” mission.

Alsip’s impressive feats include memorizing the entire script of The Princess Bride, spending an entire summer in silence as the world’s first Boy Scount monk, and inventing a game called "Blowdart Jenga" (don’t ask about the rules or safety concerns). His proudest achievement, however, is the time he convinced the entire camp that a tuxedo was a good idea to wear to a campfire.

Alsip stands beside the groom as the second best man (but don't tell Thrasher that). He’s honored to be a part of the wedding, mostly because he’s convinced there’s a secret treasure buried on the property.

Chris Alsip

Carley and Nicole’s friendship goes way back to their childhood, where it all began with hours of playing with Barbies and building forts. From those simple yet magical moments, they formed a bond more like sisters than friends. Whether they were playing soccer together or playing dress up, those early memories laid the foundation for a lifelong friendship.
Since then, Nicole and Carley have been inseparable, supporting each other through every stage of life. Their connection has withstood the test of time, and no matter where life has taken them, they’ve always picked up right where they left off. Carley is honored to have Nicole stand by her side on this special day, celebrating not only their decades-long friendship but the many more memories they’ll create together in the years to come.

Nicole Meacham

Sean met the groom in 2001 at Boy Scout Camp, where they immediately bonded over their mutual love for sports — specifically, the kind of sports where you don’t need any actual skill, just an overwhelming sense of enthusiasm and a willingness to get dirty. The first time they teamed up, they managed to turn a simple game of ultimate Frisbee into an internationally recognized competition and created the world’s most coveted trophy just behind the Stanley Cup.

From that day forward, Sean and the groom became unstoppable. Together, they’ve dominated countless pick-up games, from football to baseball to a particularly questionable game of “synchronized swimming” in a puddle they found in the woods.

Sean’s the guy who’ll definitely be cheering the loudest at the wedding reception, either because he’s gotten a second wind from the open bar or because he’s already started planning the post-wedding baseball game in the parking lot.

Despite his tendency to get into trouble, Sean is fiercely loyal. He’s the guy you call when you need someone to help you hide from an awkward situation — or when you need a strategy to sneak into the bride’s wedding dress fitting because you’re pretty sure that’s where the snacks are (he’s already mapped out the plan).

Sean McCullough

Wedding Party

Q + A

Follow the link below for a secured block at a discounted rate. If you have any trouble, please contact the hotel and let them know you are booking for the Houser-Holder wedding. https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1745853334266&amp;key=GRP&amp;guestreslink2=true&amp;app=resvlink

Courtyard Marriott-Cleveland TN

There are several hotels and home rentals available in the Cleveland and Chattanooga area if you prefer not to stay at the blocked hotel. If you are needing additional travel information, please contact Carley or Robert and they will be more than happy to point you in whatever direction you desire. We are excited to celebrate with you!

Carley & Robert

Carley & Robert

Photos