These two have adored each other since MIDDLE SCHOOL. Their love story has some history, as they really did grow up together. Middle school, people! They met at a 7th grade church retreat and had their first date in the 8th grade! Parent drop-offs and all. Classic.

They took a bit of a break soon after when they both realized that they weren’t in a place for a commitment. These two remained friends though… best friends, actually. Fast forward to the 10th grade, when it became the real deal and there was no denying it. High school and college sweethearts. (I mean, I’d like to say they were middle school sweethearts!)

Al and Elizabeth really wanted to continue the theme of their history within their wedding day, as they had a “story walk” for guests to walk through and see images of their relationship hung from trees. They also had an intimate lounge area where guests could sit and read through scrapbooks of their story. Even during the ceremony, they had their youth leaders, who were there from the beginning, retell the story.

I really just resonated with that… the storytelling. Remembering where they came from and how far they have come. Remembering the blessings, the hardships, the victories and all the moments in between that led them under that tree. Remembering because it brings our hearts to thankfulness.

Psalm 103-1-2 “Praise the Lord, my soul, all my inmost being, praise His holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” Below is their story, His blessing.

 

Two pairs of shoes. One for walking towards her groom and the other for dancing with her groom.

When asked about her dress, Elizabeth said this about her Coco Amsale gown, “I had actually wanted this dress for years. It was out of my dress budget though, so when it actually came time to dress shop I never even let myself try it on. I went to a bridal shop and found a dress close in style and was so close to buying that one. But something told me not to. That night I went online and found my exact dream dress way more affordable on EBay. I took a chance, bought it, and it fit me perfectly. I didn’t have to have a single alteration.” GOLD.

Elizabeth walked down the aisle and met her sweet Al under a tree behind the historic Ribault Club.

The perfect Jacksonville wedding venue with a southern charm to it.

All about gold flatware.

A private last dance under the market lights.

Planning | Coastal Coordinating

Band | Oh No!

Invitation Suite | Zazzle

Flowers | Parker’s events

Cake/Desserts | Bliss Cakery

Catering | Potter’s House Soul Food Bistro

 Dress Designer | Coco Amsale

Suit designer / Suit shop | Men’s Warehouse

Bride’s shoes | Steve Madden + Kate Spade Keds

Photography | Molliner Photography

Video | Nick Leonard Creative

Rentals | All about events

Venue (Ceremony + Reception) – Ribault club

Bridesmaid dresses | Assorted: Jenny Yoo, Donna Morgan, David’s Bridal