The Barn at Cottonwood Ranch

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Some love stories begin with sparks, others with patience, and some with both. Jared and Kate’s journey started in a way that so many modern couples can relate to, on Bumble. But from the very beginning, theirs had a special rhythm all its own. How It All Began Kate will tell you she was hesitant, because it seemed too good to be true. Responding every few days, not sure she wanted to dive in. But Jared? He showed up with consistency. “I called him&nbsp;consistent Jared&nbsp;when talking to my friends,” Kate laughed. He was steady, present, and always respectful. If you've ever ventured into the world of online dating, you know it can be too good to be true, but not Jared. He was down-to-earth, kind, respectful, and loved Jesus. That persistence turned into their first meeting, a double date in Brunswick with Kate’s best friend and her boyfriend. The food took so long, two whole hours, that they eventually gave up and ended the night at Waffle House. Not your typical “romantic” first date, but in hindsight it was perfect. Waffle House has become one of those nostalgic markers in their love story. The Calm to Her StormWhen you talk to Kate about Jared, her eyes soften. “I love how reliable Jared is. He’s the calm to my storm and the fixer to whatever I break.” She grinned as she listed it all: keys locked in the car, hitting a curb, even the time her dog jumped through the screen door. Jared’s steady, calm presence balances her energy in a way she didn’t even know she needed until she found it. Jared added, "Kate is my person. She is often the first person to offer help, even if she really doesn't know how to help- like that time she tired to cut the neighbors grass, so I wouldn't have to do it when I got off of work, but ended up hitting the well and busting a pipe. It was the effort that was admirable, and the laughter that followed that truly made me fall in love. She has a heart of gold and I am so thankful through every broken thing, misplaced item, and well intended adventure that she choses to love me." That’s the thing about true love: it doesn’t just complement you, it centers you. The Proposal at Quarantine BeachKnowing how much Kate loves searching for sharks’ teeth, Jared planned the perfect proposal. He took her to Quarantine Beach, where they combed the sand for over two hours. Then he said, “Let’s find five more.” Kate finished her five, but when she looked back, Jared was still in the same spot. She walked over, and he smiled, holding up what he called “a big one.” But instead of a fossilized tooth, it was her engagement ring.A proposal perfectly tailored to them, simple, thoughtful, and woven with their favorite things. Safe. Balanced. Honest.When asked to describe their love in three words, they didn’t hesitate:&nbsp;Safe, Balanced, Honest.Those words aren’t just descriptors, they’re the foundation of their relationship. Kate knew Jared was the one the moment she saw that red hair paired with his calm, consistent personality. Everyday AdventuresA perfect day for Jared and Kate looks like this: a ride out on the boat, fishing or just sitting by the water, followed by dinner at Skippers. They love turkey shoots, duck hunting, and playing pickleball. For Kate, coaching tennis is a passion, while for Jared, it’s about simply being present in whatever adventure they’re on together.Their love isn’t just about the big milestones, it’s about little adventures, the outdoors, and finding joy in everyday moments. Nostalgic PlacesSome places hold extra weight in their journey together. Waffle House, where their first date ended. Quarantine Beach, the place of their proposal. Turkey Shoots, a shared tradition that brings them together. Each spot reminds them that their relationship has always been built on simplicity, fun, and connection. Their Cumberland Island Engagement SessionFor their engagement session, Jared and Kate did something that was perfectly them. They loaded up the boat and headed across the water to Cumberland Island, one of Georgia’s most enchanting hidden gems. The island greeted them with everything wild and beautiful: wild horses grazing near the dunes, deer stepping quietly through the grass, gators in the waterways, and flocks of birds soaring above. Anchors dropped, the world seemed to pause, and it felt like the island itself was celebrating their love. As the evening unfolded, the light softened and the sky turned gold. The sunset was nothing short of breathtaking, painting the marshes and water in warm tones that wrapped around them like a blessing. Surrounded by nature, adventure, and each other, their engagement session became more than photographs. It was an experience that reflected exactly who they are. Looking Ahead: A Barn at Cottonwood WeddingNext spring, Jared and Kate will gather with family and friends to celebrate their wedding at&nbsp;The Barn at Cottonwood in Jacksonville, Florida.&nbsp;This rustic yet elegant venue is known for its whitewashed barn, open pastures, and timeless Southern charm. Couples love the combination of wide-open skies, romantic oak trees, and spaces that feel both welcoming and refined. The Barn at Cottonwood is one of Jacksonville’s most beloved wedding venues because it blends classic barn character with thoughtful modern touches. For Jared and Kate, it will be the perfect place to begin their married life — surrounded by the people who love them most, in a space that reflects their balance of fun, faith, and tradition. A LOVE THAT FEELS LIKE HOMEJared and Kate’s story is a reminder that love doesn’t have to be flashy to be extraordinary. It’s in the quiet patience of “consistent Jared,” the Waffle House date that turned into a memory, the shark tooth hunt that became a proposal, and the wild beauty of Cumberland Island at sunset.Their love is steady, fun, honest, and lasting. The kind of love that feels safe. The kind of love that feels like home. And soon, it will carry them into the next chapter at The Barn at Cottonwood. https://lauraperezphotography.com/2025/09/15/jared-kate-a-cumberland-island-engagement-session/

Jared and Kate

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

<a href="https://app.marriott.com/reslink?id=1762541481483&amp;key=GRP&amp;app=resvlink" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book your group rate for Melvin &amp; Renshaw Wedding</a>

Kate & Jared

Kate & Jared

Travel

Courtyard Amelia Island

Hyatt Place Jacksonville Airport