It’s safe to say that there’s a cliche timeline of what the “traditional” life should look like. While this life can exist, there are times when two people mature in a different way and their paths cross paths later in life in the “non-traditional” way. Finding your forever person, whether it’s done in the traditional storybook manner, or done with a few extra chapters, those who find it are blessed beyond measure. We know our love is unique, unconditional, and forever.

From the first time James and Kyla met, everything just felt different. Hours felt like seconds and smiles and laughs were endless. Their first beach day, James asked for Kyla's address. When Kyla gave directions to her house, she said "Its the one with all the cat decorations in the yard." James had no clue how symbolic this was of Kyla’s sense of humor and who she really is. James didn’t find the cat decorations but he did find the love of his life (and a newfound love for cats).

Their first beach day turned into multiple dates and talking nonstop; and they both knew that this new relationship wasn’t what they had experienced in the past. In May, during the 7th inning stretch of a Myrtle Beach Pelicans game, James let Kyla know that he wanted to lock her down. James knew he couldn’t let the most incredible woman he had ever met go any longer without sharing his feelings.

James and Kyla had an incredible first summer , learning a lot about each other, including how competitive they both are in their own way. Kyla and her best friend Kelley held a Beach Olympics. The event was filled with fun and friends where Kyla was eventually crowned the “champion” fair and square. James tried his best to argue against this, but he was slowly accepting that Kyla was right about (most) things. This same level of competition exists everyday in their relationship and allows Kyla many opportunities to poke fun at James and challenge his competitive spirit. Of course, Kyla wins most times and James is a poor sport but the challenges are always fun.

From the start of their relationship, James was very quick to share that he was the father of two boys, Sullivan and Bennett and they are the centerpiece of his world. James spent many nights talking to Sullivan and Bennett about "Miss Kyla", showing them pictures, and finally asking them if they would like to meet her. Sullivan’s response was unforgettable, “You bet we would.” From the moment the boys met Kyla, it was a natural connection. James already knew Kyla was his forever, but this moment made an already incredible connection one that was even more special. Sullivan and Bennett quickly fell head over heels in love with “Miss Kyla” just like their daddy had.

Kyla has always been an incredible adventurer and lover of travel. James typically stayed close to home and was unfamiliar with the joy and memories that travel truly creates. Kyla and James planned their first of many travels to beautiful Savannah, Georgia so that James could meet Kylas brother and sister-in-law. Kyla’s style of travel was evident as she carefully selected the most unique bed and breakfasts to stay at and restaurants that you can’t forget. On their trip home, Kyla planned a stay in Beaufort, South Carolina where James and Kyla really shared their love for historic bed and breakfast style homes that carry a unique story just like theirs. Little did they know, this trip would be the inspiration for their future wedding at Cotton Hall.

While James and Kyla’s story may not be the traditional one, their story is one that ends in unconditional love, adventure, silliness, laughs, traditions, and a white picket fence that James and Kyla are creating.