The Sage

Wedding Day

Our Wedding

<p>Manon and I met through mutual friends as all lesbians should. We became best friends quickly and have been attached at the hip since May of 2022. As a set of Cancers, we fell deeply in love and fast. After Manon moved in with me in August of 2023, we had to tackle all of the real adult things together like finances and child care (Ollie is considered a child to us). We have grown immensely over the last year in so many ways. Being with each other through challenges, travels, family (fun) and all of the in between has helped each of us lean on each other a little more. Manon is what my family would claim to be my greatest decision thus far. As our family continues to grow with our newest child, Gus, we know that we cannot do this life alone. We appreciate you all for supporting us through what some would call a "non-traditional" wedding season. We hope that our big day makes each and every one of our family members and friends feel welcome and comfortable. We are elated to have you join us at our wedding to dance, laugh, and celebrate together.</p>

Our Story

Photos

After living with me for 4 years prior to Manon, Mary Ann knows us better than most. One of our most laughable memories was when I forgot to introduce her the first time Manon came over to our house, instead I introduced all 3 dogs. Mary Ann is the most selfless human being we have ever met. She put everything together for our engagement and kept her cool knowing many months before anyone else. After all that she has done for us over the years, we are so excited to have her standing next to us on our big day. 

Mary Ann Vardaman 

Although we’re almost 8 years apart, it has never stopped me from forcing Kate to hang out with me. She has literally been through everything with me, not only as a sister but as my best friend. I have loved watching her grow into the person she is today, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for her because it is definitely big. She makes the world go round seamlessly for everyone who is a part of her life. Never needing anything in return, she is the most selfless person I know. She has been incredibly supportive of all the different turns in my life. Kate is a wonderful human, and I couldn’t be more proud to have her by my side. 

Kate Kilgore 

Walt has been my little bestie since he was born even though he’s not so little anymore. He is turning into an incredible young man. When he met Mary Fran, I knew they were going to love each other and I’m so thankful for their friendship. Family beach trips have become so much more fun for Walt now that he has a buddy to play with him all day. Walt has the been the best little brother to me and our sister, Kate. I am so proud to have the kindest heart I know with me on our wedding day. 

Walt Kilgore 

I’m so glad I invited Maddie to eat lunch with my friends and I in 10th grade (and so is she). 
College is when we became inseparable. We were content watching greys for hours on end or sharing $4 pitchers at innis. As long as we get to be together, we are happy. No matter where Maddie moved, it hasn’t stopped us from talking everyday. We even did a few cross country road trips, and I wouldn’t do that for just anyone. I’m so thankful for the friend that Maddie has been all of these years and can’t wait for her to be a part of our big day.

Maddie Mayfield

Ella has been a part of my life for over 20 years. Through the terrible middle school phases, going off to college to separate corners of the country, and learning how to adult; she has been the most consistent friend. She has always been a part of our family and was the easiest friend to invite on a trip going up. One of my favorite trips ever was going to stay with her and her partner, Gabby in California in 2023. They were so welcoming to Manon and didn't miss a beat getting to know her. It was no surprise that both of our partners will also be life long friends. Ella is the closest friend I have to family, and we are so excited to have her be a part of our special day! 

Ella Carter 

Gann knows Me better than anyone. Shortly after our parents brought me home from the hospital in 1996 and Gann quickly asked "Does she have to go everywhere with us?" He learned a few years later that he had a shadow in every single thing he did. He played lacrosse, I decided I needed to as well. I even tried to steal all of his basketball shorts as a child. (Should have been the first clue). Gann is such an important person to us and our family. He is the first to make an out-of-pocket joke, but also the kind of guy who will discuss all levels of philosophy at any time of day. He was the first person I came out to as my built-in best friend. We are so excited to share such a special part of our day with him and have him officiate our wedding. There truly is no better person for the job, and he just so happens to be family too. 

Gann Waters-Wright 

Wedding Party

Q + A

In Birmingham (Downtown Birmingham)Make yourself at home in one of the 117 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and Smart televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with premium bedding. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and premium TV channels provides entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.A stay at Elyton Hotel

Elyton Hotel Autograph Collection by Marriott

In Birmingham (Downtown Birmingham)Make yourself at home in one of the 120 air-conditioned guestrooms. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming provides entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include safes and coffee/tea makers, as well as phones with free local 

Manon & Mary Fran

Manon & Mary Fran

M&M

Wedding Day