Candies Creek Farm

Rehearsal Dinner

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Drae and Noelle’s story is one beautifully written by God that begins all the way back in their freshman year at Lee University. Though they started in different friend groups, the Lord brought their paths together that fall as their circles began spending more and more time together. At first, Noelle only saw Drae as a friend- and only a friend. But as the months went on, she began to notice something different around Christmas when it became clear that Drae’s feelings for her might be more than just friendship. In the spring, they ended up in the same class on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. After lunch in the caf, they would walk together to class, sharing conversations and laughter that made their bond grow deeper. Their friendship flourished, and though there was something special between them, they continued to call it “just friends.” Eventually, Noelle felt the Lord nudging her to be honest about what she was sensing. One night, she asked Drae directly if he had feelings for her. Drae honestly admitted that he did and had for a while. Noelle, who had never dated before, was unsure and cautious. She told Drae she wasn’t ready for a relationship, didn’t want to rush into anything, but was interested in getting to know him more. Drae said he would wait as long as she needed, and that he never wanted to pressure her into something too fast. His patience and respect made an even deeper impression on Noelle. What she didn’t know at the time was just how into her he really was- so much so that at one point, he practically begged her to go on a date with him-just hoping for a chance to show her what he saw in their connection. As time went on, God continued working in Noelle’s heart. Many long, late-night conversations in the dorm parking lot allowed her to see Drae more clearly. He was a man of integrity, gentleness, and unwavering faith. During spring break, she realized how deeply she missed him. In that quiet space, God revealed what He had been building all along. When Noelle finally shared her feelings, Drae was shocked and overjoyed. He told her, “All my eggs are in one basket, and I hope the basket doesn’t break.” From then on, they entered a season of waiting and trust- choosing to remain friends, but exclusively so, as they sought the Lord’s timing.On the first day back at Lee in the fall of 2023, they officially began dating. What followed was nearly two years of growing in love, faith, and friendship- learning to walk through life together with God at the center. Then, in God’s perfect timing, Drae got down on one knee and asked Noelle to be his wife. She said yes, knowing without a doubt that this story had been authored by the Lord from the very beginning. Now, they step into marriage with full hearts and deep faith ready for whatever God has in store, and committed to loving each other with the same patience, joy, and grace that brought them here.

Our Story

Photos

Karina Harrington

Ammiah Stafford

Callie Curtis

Stella Starosciak

Emma Bailey

Susanna Rogers

Rylee Boulineau

Maddie Law

Cayden Stafford

Braden Turnbow

Will Biven 

Kolby Goines

Harrison Rucker

Thomas Wood

Aden Mosley

Blake Self

Meadow Walden

Chuck Walden

Wedding Party

Q + A

Located in Cleveland, 30 miles from Chattanooga Zoo, Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland TN provides accommodations with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a fitness center and a shared lounge. Providing a bar, the property is located within 27 miles of Tennessee Riverpark. Guests can have a drink at the snack bar. At the hotel, rooms are equipped with a desk and a flat-screen TV. At Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland TN each room is equipped with a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. At the accommodation you'll find a restaurant serving American, Pizza and Local cuisine. Dairy-free and gluten-free options can also be requested. The reception at Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland TN can provide tips on the area. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is 25 miles from the hotel. Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is 26 miles away.

Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland TN

Located in Cleveland, 28 miles from Chattanooga Zoo, La Quinta by Wyndham Cleveland TN provides accommodations with a fitness center, free private parking and a shared lounge. The 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom and free WiFi. The hotel has an indoor pool and a 24-hour front desk. The breakfast offers continental, vegetarian or vegan options. A business center and vending machines with snacks and drinks are available on site at the hotel. Tennessee Aquarium is 30 miles from La Quinta by Wyndham Cleveland TN, while Tennessee Riverpark is 25 miles away. Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is 24 miles from the property.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Cleveland TN

Located in Cleveland, 30 miles from Chattanooga Zoo, Home2 Suites By Hilton Cleveland, TN provides air-conditioned rooms and an outdoor swimming pool. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk. Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is 25 miles from the hotel. Guest rooms at the hotel are equipped with a TV with cable channels and a kitchen. The rooms will provide guests with a fridge. Tennessee Riverpark is 27 miles from Home2 Suites By Hilton Cleveland, TN, while Hunter Museum of American Art is 31 miles away. Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is 25 miles from the property.

Home2 Suites By Hilton Cleveland, TN

Travel

We’re so excited to celebrate with you in our little corner of Tennessee! Whether you’re from out of town or just looking for something fun to do in between wedding events, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite local spots. Cleveland has all the small-town charm (plus some seriously good food), and if you’re up for a short drive, Chattanooga has tons to explore... waterfalls, mountaintop views, and plenty of places to eat, shop, and relax. Scroll through for ideas to help you make the most of your weekend. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do! Cleveland, TN Outdoor &amp; Scenic Spots• Red Clay State Historic Park - Peaceful walking trails and Cherokee history.• Cleveland Greenway - A paved trail along the creek for walking or biking.• Hiwassee River - Great for rafting, kayaking, or taking in the views. Local Shops &amp; Downtown• Downtown Cleveland - Quaint boutiques, antique stores, and cozy coffee shops.• Museum Center at 5ive Points - Small local museum about Appalachian culture. Coffee &amp; Food Favorites• Bonlife - Great coffee right outside of downtown.• Cafe Roma - Upscale Italian for a nice dinner out.• Dos Bros -Fresh Mexican food almost like chipotle (but better;))• City Caf- Good quality comfort food.• Lupis- One of the best pizza places in town. Chattanooga, TN (about 30–40 minutes away) Outdoor Adventures• Rock City Gardens – Scenic cliffside trails and views of seven states.• Ruby Falls – Underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain.• Lookout Mountain Incline Railway – A steep, historic ride with mountain views.• Coolidge Park – Riverfront park with walking paths and a classic carousel. Museums &amp; Attractions• Tennessee Aquarium – One of the best aquariums in the country.• Hunter Museum of American Art – Beautiful museum with river views.• Chattanooga Choo Choo – Historic train station turned into restaurants and shops. Foodie Favorites• Milk &amp; Honey - Trendy brunch spot with gelato and lattes.• Alleia - Romantic Italian restaurant downtown.• The Local Goat- Halfway between Chat and Cleveland• Agave and Rye- Authentic tacos and great atmosphere!

Things to Do

Registry

Ultimate Formal Attire Shopping Guide

25 Hand-Picked Formal Guest Dresses

Tux vs. Suit: What's the Difference?

Think dressed-up but relaxed! Cocktail dresses, midi dresses, or dressy separates work great for women. Men can wear a suit or dress pants with a button-down—ties optional. Dressy shoes encouraged.

Dress Code

Drae & Noelle

Drae & Noelle

Wedding Party