Wedding Day

Fall

Our Wedding

Our Happenstance

They met in one of the most ordinary places—Vanessa’s old high school gym. She was a senior, just trying to make it through her last year, and he was there for a college fair. She noticed him almost immediately. Nothing big or dramatic happened; there was just something about him she couldn’t quite explain. Even after he left, he stayed on her mind.A few days later, somehow, he found her.What started between them was simple. Just friendship. Talking came easily—texts between classes, phone calls after work, late-night conversations that lasted longer than either of them planned. When she wasn’t busy, she caught herself checking her phone, hoping he’d text. And when he had free time, he usually spent it talking to her. Neither of them was looking for anything serious. Life had already taught them how complicated feelings could get. This was supposed to stay easy.But things don’t always stay simple.Weekend drives in his old blue Chevy turned into hours of laughing and talking about everything and nothing. The quiet moments stopped feeling awkward and started feeling comfortable. Somewhere along the way, without either of them really noticing, friendship turned into something more.By the time they realized what was happening, they were already in it.To everyone else, it looked like they’d known each other forever. Like being together just made sense. In reality, they were just two teenagers learning as they went, figuring out love one day at a time. There wasn’t a single moment where everything changed—it grew slowly, through small choices, shared time, and showing up for each other again and again.It wasn’t perfect. They argued. They misunderstood each other. Some days were harder than others. But there were also long drives, inside jokes, late-night laughter, and memories that felt bigger than the moments themselves.It wasn’t a love story filled with grand gestures or perfect timing. It was quieter than that—two people doing their best, giving what they could, and hoping that somehow, through everything, they’d never let go.

How it Happened

I’ve known you forever, yet there isn’t a single day that goes by without me learning something new about you. My Gabs, you’ve been by my side through middle school boyfriends, some really tough moments, and everything in between — never once leaving. You are such an incredible person who bring light into everything you do. I can’t wait to have you standing beside me on this special day, helping me shine even brighter.

Victoria (Gabbi) Yates

My beautiful baby sister, even though you’re the youngest of the oldest siblings, I am so incredibly proud of the young woman you are becoming. We may have had our fights along the way, but nothing could ever replace the special place you hold in my heart. It’s true that one of a big sister’s greatest fears is watching her siblings grow up, but I wouldn’t want to experience this special day without you right beside me. I love you so much, my darling.

Lucy Coggins

Christina came into my life when I needed someone steady, and I’m so grateful she stayed. From the chaos of high school to quiet study sessions, she was always by my side—smart, kind, and endlessly loyal. Calling her a friend since elementary school feels like a gift; our shared memories mean the world to me. I can’t wait to have her standing with me on our wedding day.

Christina Keenum

Kelsey has felt like a sister from the moment we met through James Michael. She’s the perfect mix of kindness and strength—sweet and caring, but tough and determined when it counts. Watching her chase her dreams and lift up everyone around her has been a true gift. I’m so grateful she’s in our lives and can’t wait to stand beside her on our wedding day.

Kelsey Fulgham

As one of the only true friends I’ve made in college, I truly believe God knew exactly what He was doing when He brought us together. You’ve become such a special and important part of my life. You are absolutely amazing and incredibly sweet, but just as spicy when the moment calls for it — which is one of the many reasons I adore you. Your kindness, humor, and genuine heart make you such an unforgettable person and an even better friend. I am so thankful for our friendship and all the memories we’ve made, and I can’t wait to have you by my side on this special day.

Natalie Peno

Even though you came into our lives later, you arrived exactly when our family needed you most. We love you so much, our little firecracker. Watching you grow has been such a beautiful journey, and it means the world to me that now you’ll be walking before me on this special day when, for so much of your life, I was the one walking before you. You have such a bright future ahead of you, and I know you’re going to do truly amazing things.

Ava Rayne Hatcher

We may have only met a few years ago, but it truly feels like we’ve known each other our whole lives. He may not be my blood, but he is my brother in every way that truly matters. Through every laugh, every challenge, and every moment in between, he has stood by my side — not just as a friend, but as family. His loyalty, support, and genuine heart have meant more to me than words can ever express. Having him beside me on this special day means more than I could ever put into words.

Alex Fulgham

This is Mason — even though we haven’t known each other for very long and may have started out as work besties, I truly couldn’t imagine surviving work with anyone else. Somewhere along the way, you became more than just a coworker or a friend; you became a brother. Your humor, support, and friendship have made even the hardest days better, and I’m so grateful for all the laughs and memories we’ve shared.

Mason Marchionda

I’m so thankful that your friendship came into my life when it did. Sometimes the best people show up when you least expect it, and that’s exactly what happened with you. What started as a friendship quickly turned into something so much more — I didn’t just gain a friend; I gained a brother for life. Your support, loyalty, and the way you’ve always shown up mean more to me than words can express. I’m incredibly grateful for the bond we’ve built, and it truly means the world to have you standing beside me on such an important day.

Christian Chaney

I’m truly thankful to have you as such a wonderful addition to our family, and I couldn’t imagine anyone better for my cousin. Sometimes the best people appear when you least expect them, and that’s exactly what happened with you. From the moment you came into our lives, it was clear how much love, happiness, and strength you bring to those around you. I’m so glad to know you and even happier to call you family. Having you share in this special day means so much to me.

Cooper Utley

From strangers, to neighbors, to boss, to brothers — who would’ve thought our story would turn out like this? It’s rare to find people who truly stick with you through it all — the good days, the hard days, and everything in between — and I’m proud to say I’ve gained a friend for life. What started as something simple turned into a bond, I’ll always value. I’m grateful for your loyalty, your support, and the way you’ve always shown up. Having you by my side on this big day means more than you know.

Xavier Keyes

I may be your uncle, but you’ve always felt more like my little brother. Korb, you are truly one of my favorite people in this entire world, and watching you grow into the amazing person you are today has been something incredibly special. You’ve brought so much joy, laughter, and pride into my life, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the bond we share. Seeing the person you’re becoming fills me with happiness and it means the world to have you standing by my side on such an important day. I’m beyond proud of you and so thankful to share this moment with you.

Korbin McCool

The Party

Pics and Flics

We kindly ask guests to respect the preferences and decisions the Bride and Groom have made for their wedding day. If any aspect of the celebration doesn’t suit you, you are not required to attend — but know that your presence will be missed.

Guide to Wedding-Appropriate Casual Attire

What to Wear to a Backyard Wedding

How to Level-Up Casual Wedding Attire

This is an outdoor wedding, so the dress code is Sunday's Best. If it is good enough for Jesus, it is good enough for us!! We’d love for guests to wear our wedding colors: all shades of blue, dusty pinks, and other springy/rustic tones that fit our spring celebration. If you’re unsure, lean toward light blues, blush, sage, or pastel colors.

Vanessa & James Michael

Vanessa & James Michael

V&J

Wedding Day