Valentine's Day Style From The Stars

While some are partial to Spring or Summer and others prefer Fall, this is the perfect opportunity to introduce you to my favorite season….

AWARDS SEASON.

There is something so satisfying and starstruck about watching your favorite celebrities in their best glam. The day after an award show, I always find myself scrolling in search of candid video clips of celebrities talking to their friends. Because for a moment, as I watch Taylor Swift lovingly turn to Selena and whisper something in her ear, as girls often do, I’m reminded that behind the sequins and hairspray, these stars are women too. They gossip like us. Laugh like us. I’m sure they have a group chat with a very specific group name, just like us.

The more I scroll through the gorgeous looks from this awards show season, I am inspired!

““Fashion you can buy, but style you possess. The key to style is learning who you are, which takes years. There’s no how-to road map to style. It’s about self expression and, above all, attitude.” ”

— Iris Apfel

With Valentines Day just a couple days away, maybe you can find a little inspiration from these outfits too. I’m not suggesting that you have to somehow acquire a designer gown or drop serious $$$ on a new dress. Perhaps simply a little inspiration. What style do you resonate with the most? Personally I’m going for a Jennifer Lawrence meets Margot Robbie vibe this year.

Classic Glam

Girl’s Girl Glam

Glitzy Glam

Fall Staycation Guide with Lisa Harris Boyd

If you live in Birmingham, I’m sure you’ve noticed it. The cool air entering the conversation like a bouquet of long-stemmed flowers on your doorstep. Unexpected and timely. As the daylight hours seem to shrink a few sizes, this weather has me wishing I could spend every second outside. A little extra time to watch the leaves descend to their new homes on the sidewalk, begging to be crunched and photographed. 

This is the season for afternoon wine on a patio with friends while Birmingham lingers in the background. The ideal time for a get-away in my favorite little city.

Whether you’re planning a local honeymoon or a last minute autumnal staycation, our lovely friend and longtime luxury travel expert, Lisa Harris Boyd, is here with her tips for a fool-proof fall escape for two.

Lisa is a Samford grad and has called Vestavia home for 20 years. As a wonderful mother to three teenage daughters and a self proclaimed animal lover, one of her biggest passions is traveling.

““I always have at least one personal trip booked and another that I’m planning so that I have things to look forward to.””

— Lisa Harris Boyd

Growing up, her family valued the ability to travel and encounter fresh experiences. After years of devoted wandering with her parents, it was only right that she continue that tradition with her own family.

““In my travels, I have been to all 50 states and experienced 27 countries so far.””

— Lisa Harris Boyd

Lisa was dedicated to her long career in advertising. After losing her first husband to cancer, she realized we are not promised tomorrow and felt it was only natural to begin a career in something that always gave her life fulfillment; the art of travel. With that sentiment in mind, she started Life Is Short Adventures.

““I wanted to make a career change that would allow me to spend more time with my daughters and would help others spend more time with the people they love.””

— Lisa Harris Boyd

With the weather and atmosphere begging for a local retreat, I asked Lisa to share her expertise with us and plan a couple Birmingham staycations. Enjoy reading her personal recommendations below. 

STAYCATION 1 - DOWNTOWN BIRMINGHAM

LODGING

Couples looking for a more private escape in the city will love the John Hand Club Hotel. I’ve found that most Birminghamians don’t even know it exists AND it only has six suites—very intimate. Personally, my favorite rooms are the:

The Cobblestone Suite -  This room has a large balcony overlooking the charming Morris Avenue.

The Heaviest Corner Suite - a breathtaking room with captivating downtown views right from your bed.

DINING

If you choose to stay at this hotel, you have access to The Welton, a private bar and restaurant for John Hand Club members, where you can enjoy a deliberately crafted culinary experience without leaving the building.

If you feel like a little stroll with your sweetheart, you are only two short blocks away from Birmingham-beloved restaurants Helen and The Essential. 

ACTIVITIES

If you are staycationing Tuesday through Saturday, Total on 1st offers an 80-minute (yes..we said that right. EIGHTY MINUTE) couple’s massage. This gorgeous luxury spa is across the street from your hotel, steps away from relaxation. 

A romantic morning or sunset walk down Morris Avenue is a fun and easy outing. With brunch options like The Essential, Bar Le Fete, and Trattoria Zaza all in walking distance, you will absolutely never be in short supply of amazing food. 

BUSTLE TIP: It’s also worth mentioning that you are steps away from Bham’s biggest bar scene with some of the city’s elite establishments for phenomenally crafted cocktails and a captivating atmosphere. 

STAYCATION 2 - MOUNTAIN BROOK

LODGING

The Grand Bohemian Hotel in Mountain Brook provides the best full-service hotel experience in Birmingham and is perfectly located for a honeymoon staycation. 

Their Deluxe King rooms have a soaking tub and all reservations made by Life Is Short Adventures includes complimentary breakfast, a special welcome surprise, VIP status and a complimentary room upgrade, if available.

DINING

My favorite staycation evening at The Grand Bohemian starts off with dinner and margaritas at Sol Y Luna followed by cocktails under the stars at the Grand Bohemian rooftop bar.

BUSTLE TIP: If you are a big fan of morning coffee and sweets, we highly recommend taking a stroll through Mountain Brook Village and trying Santos for coffee and crepes. For a wonderful lunch, we highly recommend Olexa’s and stopping by Daughters Baking for cake cups on your way back to the hotel.

ACTIVITIES

The hotel provides a plethora of onsite activities including: 

• An outdoor pool

• Rooftop Bar

• Onsite Art Gallery

• Onsite Spa offering couples massages

• Cooking Classes

• Wine Blending Classes

Couples who love the natural beauty of being outdoors will appreciate being across the street from Birmingham Botanical Gardens and having a variety of walkable shops, bars and restaurants in Mountain Brook Village.

If you would like to talk to Lisa about your next trip, you can contact her here or visit her website.

““To me, all trips are special, but honeymoons are the first time that the newlywed couple can travel together which provides them with a chance to relax and connect after an oftentimes stressful period of wedding planning. I love making honeymoons stress-free and as easy as possible whether couples want to relax or have a great adventure together.””

— Lisa Harris Boyd

We hope you spend this season planning your very own staycation with your sweetheart.

Bustle Bride: Ruth Allison Griffin

Ruth Allison and Scott’s meet cute was something out of our Grey’s Anatomy dreams. Scott, living in his own kind of McDreamy energy, was in Residency at UAB while Ruth Allison was giving every ounce of herself to her patients as an ICU nurse.

““We were friends for a while then at the work Christmas party at Carrigan’s we decided to finally go on a real date!””

— Ruth Allison

From the beginning Scott had an effortless way of taking Ruth Allison’s inner child by the hand and leading them both into an easy way of serendipity. Their first date was a celebration of that youth, an evening filled with genuine laughter and wholesome interest. 

““We went to the Birmingham Bulls hockey game! It was laid back and fun with hot dogs and french fries for dinner and then we sang to a mixed CD from the high school era all the way home—what a fun throwback!””

— Ruth Allison

The nostalgic music that filled the car on that first date quickly became a foreshadowing scene to what would look like forever. Ruth Allison knew Scott was the one after sharing their love for song.

““When we started singing together, it just felt right.””

— Ruth Allison

Their time together quickly became the melodic jingle that Ruth Allison couldn’t get out of her head. The seamlessness of their aligning outlook on life gave Allison the undeniable reassurance that they would never want to live without each other. 

““I never wanted to live in this life without him. When you know, you know!” ”

— Ruth Allison

It’s no secret that Ruth Allison’s wedding gown was one of our favorites. When this beauty of a dress arrived in the shop, the Bustle girls couldn’t help but dream about who would be the bride that would dawn this gown for their special day. When Ruth Allison tried on our beloved gown, everyone in the room knew it was meant for her.

““{I loved} Every. Single. Thing. It was classic, timeless, modern, modest but also flattering. It was perfect for a church wedding. My mother’s dress had a bow on the back of hers as well. I love that mine captured that sentiment.””

— Ruth Allison

It was no surprise to us that a couple who embodied such true connection would prioritize that intimacy throughout their wedding. When we asked Ruth Allison what moment stood out to her the most, her answer had us looking for the nearest tissue box. 

““It’s hard to narrow it down because there wasn’t one thing we didn’t love about that day. I think our favorite part was our first look and private vows. It was special and intimate. We felt like after that we actually got to spend our entire wedding day together and we wouldn’t want to spend it any other way. Of course the dancing was our second favorite! The band was so worth it!””

— Ruth Allison

Menswear Suits: Mens Warehouse

Wedding Planner: Engaged Wedding Library

Photographer/Videographer: Eric & Jamie photography

Venue: church: Redeemer Community Church ; Reception-The Fennec

Cakes: Telia Johnson Cakes

Flowers: Susan Milner Designs

H&M: hair- Molly Gee Webster with Molly Gee & Co. and Paige Goodwin (Salon U)

Makeup- Bride did her own!

Caterer: In-house catering with The Fennec

TOP 10 MOTHER OF THE BRIDE GIFT IDEAS

““The first time you see your grown-up little miss looking back at you from a sea of white chiffon or beaded satin glory, indeed your heart will skip a beat. You’ll find yourself blinking back tears. ””

— Cheryl Barker

In honor of your favorite lady. The one to know you before any other, and arguably so, will know you better than anyone ever could—your Mama. While it is impossible to fit a lifetime of love into a gift for one day, we thought we would help you narrow down a sentimental start.

Here is our Top 10 Mother of the Bride Gift List! We hope you see something that sparks a memory for your special Mom. We have linked every item, so it’ll be easy for you to shop! Just click the name of the item you love, and it will take you to the Etsy link—easy peasy!  

1.) WEDDING PURSE WITH PERSONALIZED PHOTO

2.) PERSONALIZED WEDDING CUFF

3.) PERSONALIZED POCKET MIRROR

4.) PERSONALIZED GLASS MUG WITH BIRTH FLOWERS

5.) PERSONALIZED WIND CHIME

6.) WEDDING CANDLE

7.) PERSONALIZED BRACELET WITH BIRTHSTONES

8.) COZY SWEATSHIRT

9.) PERSONALIZED WEDDING NOTEBOOK

10.) WEDDING PHOTO FRAME

THE BEST PLACE TO FIND AN EASTER DRESS IN BIRMINGHAM: CLOVER AND BEE

If you’re like us, you probably also just remembered that Easter is around the corner and you STILL have NOTHING to wear—oopsie daisy! Do not fret, dear reader, you don’t have to go on any easter egg hunts for this info.

At Bustle, we help guide you into the wedding dress of your dreams. We know how valuable it is to create meaningful connections with you. It’s our biggest desire to introduce you to our remarkable gowns while making you feel at home—comfortable and treasured. Needless to say, our expectations are high when it comes to local boutiques. Clover + Bee checks every box effortlessly!

““Whether it’s the perfect fit, a unique accessory, the ideal gift, or a memorable connection, we hope you feel like one lucky girl when you visit us at our boutique in Birmingham, AL.””

— CLOVER + BEE

Formally known as Cradle + Bee, this local treasure trove sits pretty in the heart of Cahaba Heights in Birmingham, AL. Clover + Bee is a burst of color, waiting to give you your daily dose of serotonin. This boutique is INSPIRED floor to ceiling. Every little corner filled with something that will make you smile—so whole-heartedly happy.

““We consider ourselves truly lucky to have you as our customer, and our personal service is designed to let you know how special you are to us. You can expect a welcoming environment, attentive service, and a genuine smile from everyone on our team.””

— CLOVER + BEE

Our Bustle girls took a stroll around the shop and fawned over all their new inventory. If you are still in need of an Easter dress, they truly have something for EVERY style. From clean lines and classic silhouettes, to whimsical color palettes and trendsetting styles, they have it all.

Their staff is so incredibly kind and welcoming. We felt so taken care of from the time we walked in.

You really need to visit Clover + Bee to experience it yourself! You can visit their website here, or check out their instagram for all the latest updates.

TOP 10 MODERN WEDDING FAVORS

We get it. Why spend a huge chunk of your coveted wedding budget buying trinkets for your guests that will most likely only see the inside of a trashcan? With a vast number of newlyweds saying “I don’t” to wedding favors, we want to shed some light on a few modern takes to this age-old tradition.

Every aspect of your day should reflect who you are as a couple and what brings your life joy, INCLUDING wedding favors. While we absolutely understand if you decide to forgo the personalized drink koozies, don’t leave this page without taking a peek at some very tempting alternatives. 

If you want a little more info on any of these ideas, just click the picture that interests you and shop away!

“THE PERFECT BLEND” COFFEE BAGS

“THE PERFECT BLEND” LOOSE LEAF TEA

“MEANT TO BEE” JAR OF HONEY

“LET LOVE GROW” WILDFLOWER SEEDS

“INFUSED WITH LOVE” OLIVE OIL

“TWO OF A KIND” PLAYING CARDS

“AROMA OF LOVE” SIGNATURE SCENT BAR 

“AROMA OF LOVE” INCENSE BAR

“VINO AND VOWS” WINE BOTTLE STOPPERS

“MIDNIGHT SNACK” 

WEDDING HAIR TRENDS OF 2023: FEATURING STYLEDXPAIGE

With the month of March just beginning, the warmth of spring is opening its doors for us. As the trees regain life and the world looks a little less gray, we can collectively breathe a sigh of relief for extra daylight—thank goodness.

The sight of all this is a beautiful reminder of the beginning of the 2023 WEDDING SEASON. This week we sat down with hair expert and artist, Paige Wanamaker, to discuss ALL things Wedding Hair 2023! What styles to look out for, the breakout trends of the year, and timeless looks for the season.

Paige spent her adolescence wholeheartedly engaged to the beauty of hairstyling.

““I sort of just always was “the hair girl!” Having an older sister, I made her and her friends become my “clients” for school dances and events growing up. I took clients to our upstairs jack-and-jill bathroom and did my first wedding when I was in the 8th grade.” ”

— Paige

Working as an assistant in a hair salon in High School gave Paige the validation she needed to know this is what she wanted to pursue long-term. For Paige, this was so much more than a hobby.

““When I graduated high school, Kim Hightower from Gypset Beauty Co. reached out to me and I began doing weddings regularly with Gypset’s beauty team as their lead hair stylist. Fast forward 6 years and I am styling full time, specializing in all things bridal, editorial, and special events.” ”

— Paige

The 2023 hair trend that Paige can’t get enough of, both in bridal and the fashion industry, is all pointing back to the 90s—and all the fellow butterfly clip loving, boy band crushing, 90s babies around the world can smile with GLEE.  

““The “mid-way” updo (A.K.A. “The Pamela Anderson” or “The modern 90’s updo”) comes to mind immediately. I think 2022 was the year of Glam Waves and 2023 will be the year of more high updo’s, inspired from the 90’s. That being said, I don’t think “Hailey Beiber inspired” low sleek buns are going anywhere this season either. Good thing I’m a huge fan of both!”

— Paige

The style that Paige finds herself coming back to like a long-distance best friend is always Glam Waves. She loves perfecting this style so much, she could do it in her sleep!

““I’d be lying if I said I didn’t consider this style for my own wedding a couple months ago. I love the glam waves because it’s one of those styles that yes, is a trend, but is such a timeless, classic look on its own. I think it’s a flattering style on almost everyone and while it is a bit more time consuming, I swear there are FEW things more satisfying in this life than that curl pattern forming together.””

— Paige

While we often can’t help but fall for trends, more than anything, your wedding day should be a moment where you feel the best in the body that warms you and gives you the ability to love. Whatever version of yourself you most want to showcase should be completely up to YOU, regardless of what is trending.

“ “For me, “timeless hairstyles” mean something that isn’t going to come and go just because others are doing it or you saw it on TikTok. Something that is true to you and really makes you feel beautiful from the inside out is always going to shine brighter and look better than blindly following what’s “cool”.” ”

— Paige

For Paige, the mantra that keeps her grounded remains, “You will always remember how you felt more than how you looked for a few hours.” 

““I had to remember this when I was debating my own wedding day look... I remember thinking how I had to have this particular hairstyle just because that’s what the trends said would look best with a strapless, fitted dress in December. If I had gone with that original style, I would’ve been so uncomfortable all night, not feeling like myself & worrying about what others saw. Although I love seeing what certain trends have come back around, or what’s really gaining a lot of popularity in terms of hairstyles this year, it’s important to remember that that’s all it is - a trend that will eventually go (and come back... and go again...). Ask yourself what makes YOU feel the most beautiful & most yourself?””

— Paige

Paige is instantly fulfilled the second she sees her brides light up as their wedding hair comes together. The electricity and simple joy of this moment is something Paige takes with her. Watching her clients come to life is the kind of serendipity that Paige would give for free if she could. 

Styled shoots ignite the fire of Paige’s creativity and is something she loves getting to be part of when given the chance.

““I offer all kinds of hair services & would love to have you in my chair! Personally, I believe every event in life deserves a little celebration and excuse to dress up.””

— Paige

To take a little dive into Paige’s work and inquire about her services you can visit her website and instagram! You can keep up with her daily adventures on her TikTok. We absolutely couldn’t recommend Paige more and we know you will love sitting in her chair!

Affordable Wedding Venues in Birmingham Alabama!

Okay, okay—we fully understand that the term “affordable” can mean something different to everyone and is not always a universal term for “inexpensive.” If you have planned or are in the process of planning a wedding, you know that the words affordable and wedding are usually never paired together. In fact, they are notoriously at opposite ends of the matrimonial spectrum—thanks capitalism!

As a bridal salon that fundamentally believes luxury should be assessable to everyone, we wanted to do our best to introduce you to several venues that won’t have you taking out a second mortgage. Beauty doesn’t have to break the bank! The most important part of your wedding day is celebrating the love story that is unique to you. Your life, your experiences, and the intimacy of bringing those two beautiful lives together. Let’s talk affordable venues in Bham!

1. Aldridge Gardens

In a little garden, not so far away, you can dance with the dandelions on your wedding day. Aldridge Gardens is beautifully intimate with its lush botanicals and effortless enchantment—mother nature does all the talking here. Just a quick visit to their instagram highlights and you can take a stroll through what their wedding ceremonies look like in every season of the year. This venue is perfect for the couple that wants to experience true serenity on their big day. 

2. Tiny Weddings Bham

Since 2017, Tiny Weddings Birmingham has changed the way couples get married in the Magic City! It's a new way to wed, traditional with a twist.

Now more than ever, we understand the importance of celebrating milestones with those who love us the most.

So, gather your people and let Tiny Weddings do the rest! Essentially, you, your betrothed, and 30 of your closest friends and family have the opportunity to hold your special day at one of the many pre-planned ceremonies by Tiny Weddings—from Birmingham’s finest art galleries to historic downtown loft spaces, every venue has been carefully curated with the best of the best—you can visit their website here for their 2023 venue lineup! (Spoiler alert, its GOOD)

““Show up, dressed and ready, a short time before your booked time slot. Short, sweet, personalized Ceremony among 30 of your nearest. We pop the bubbly, serve the cake, you enjoy your friends and family. We send you off for a short couple’s photo session. And you’re off on your married way! Done and Done. Nothing else is easier!”
”

— Tiny Weddings

3. Tannehill State Park

Maybe your idea of the perfect wedding is a little off the beaten path of Bham’s cityscapes and into the peaceful seclusion of the open air. If you’d rather bask in nature, among the sunlit oak trees (a few deer friends—hi Bambi), then Tannehill State Park is for you. This little piece of history has been nestled in McCalla, Alabama since the late 1800s. From sweet church chapels to communal picnic spaces, there is plenty of space to host your wedding day.

4. Historic Woodrow Hall

If you are looking for a historic venue with charm and lots of natural light, this venue might be for you! Woodrow Hall was originally built in 1914 by the Free Masons, and served as their meeting place for much of the last century before it was purchased by the current owners, whose mission is to restore historic buildings in Birmingham. Woodrow Hall offers a large foyer and beautiful banquet hall with exposed brick, high ceilings with huge wooden beams as well as modern amenities. This venue is bursting at the seams with unique architecture, character, and warmth.

5. The Vulcan

You really can’t get more iconic to Birmingham than a wedding at the Vulcan! This venue is as rich in history as it is breathtaking. Vulcan Park and Museum has become one of Bham’s most celebrated wedding venues, thanks to beautiful, spacious indoor banquet rooms and scenic outdoor spaces that offer awe-inspiring views from atop Red Mountain—talk about Magic City! This venue is perfect for the couple that cherishes their city, appreciates local charm (and a really great view).

Crafting with Claire: Valentines Day Gift Basket

Tis the season for heart-shaped everything—from candy boxes to cereal bowls, pink and red have officially covered the grocery stores shelves like a blanket of “he loves me..he loves me not.” Personally, I thrive for the vday aesthetic. It’s playful and often the kind of romance I once wrote about in a 9th grade journal. It’s pink fuzzy hearts and swirly cursive handwriting personified. Valentines Day isn’t meant to be fussy. The best part about the whole holiday is getting a green light from society to be inexplicably cheesy. 

Our resident Pinterest golden girl, Claire Jackson, has successfully put us in a lovestruck daze by pulling together a beautiful (and majorly affordable) Valentines Gift Basket. She took to the shelves of Dollar Tree to build a basket worthy of all the vday praise—complete with a softball-sized HERSHEY’S KISS. Let this be your sign to get creative and genuinely have fun putting together something for your special someone. The gifts that mean the most are often the ones without the big price tag.

Claire Jackson is such a refreshing part of our Bustle family. When she isn’t wowing us with her endearing creativity, she is spending time with her sweet husband, Dan, and their two precious children, Eleanor and Henry.

And not that you really need a reason to watch a sappy movie that will make you feel things, but we think Valentines Day is the perfect excuse to cry or laugh at your TV with the ones you love. We’ve put together a little list of our favorite flicks of the season. Whether you’re cuddling on the couch with your sweetheart or sharing a big bowl of popcorn with your best girls, we hope your Valentines Day is filled with sincere love. Soulmates come in all shapes and sizes <3

1.) You People

2.) Valentines Day

3.) Crazy Rich Asians

4.) The Notebook

5.) 50 First Dates

6.) Sleepless in Seattle

7.) 10 Things I Hate About You

8.) First Wives Club

9.) Portrait of a Lady on Fire

10.) Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

Sisterhood of the Traveling Wedding Dress | Hallie and Caroline's Story

There are very few bonds that have the ability to mold our lives in the way sisterhood does. Having a sister, in many ways, is a lot like living with a mirror in your hands. You see life as both yours but also there’s and eventually you can’t really tell where you begin and your sister ends. Sisters are predictable, but also never a stranger to surprises. If you’ve ever experienced growing up with a sister, you probably know that it’s almost impossible to remember what habit originated where. “You said that first?” “Was that my phrase or yours?” “No, I definitely liked that band WAY before you did!”

If all else fails, one thing is for absolute certain—you ALWAYS knew what belonged in your closet and if something ever was to come up missing, the culprit was only a quick walk down the hallway.

While sisterhood can be one of the most heated relationships you’ll experience, they are often the ones we run to the most. This bond is vulnerable—beautifully honest to a fault. This is a loyalty that will surpass time and space. Every secret, inside joke, every look, even the octave of their laugh has a special meaning that only you share. 

In today’s blog we are sharing the beautiful story of sisters and fellow Bustle brides, Hallie and Caroline, and how they shared one of the most significant moments two brides could ever experience. 

While Hallie is seven years older than her sister, Caroline, their difference in age has never hindered their timeless bond.

““Caroline is one of my very best friends and I often forget our age difference. We can talk about anything with each other and have walked through both good and hard times together. Even though she is younger, I look up to her and want to be like her in so many ways.””

— Hallie

““Hallie and I have been best friends for as long as I can remember. She is my role model and I look up to her so much. Even though we are seven years apart, we have always had a special connection.””

— Caroline

Hallie tied the knot with her sweet husband, Leighton, six years before her sister Caroline said, “I do.” 

““We initially met when I was a freshman at Auburn and he was a sophomore. One of my best friends was dating one of his best friends at the time, which is how we began spending more time together! Funny enough, we ended up both being a bridesmaid and groomsman in the wedding of those friends!””

— Hallie

Hallie knew early on in their relationship that he was the one and that he would be who she chose for the rest of her life.

““Leighton has the biggest servant’s heart and that was one of the things that attracted me to him the most. He is so supportive, selfless, caring, and also makes me laugh like no one else can!” ”

— Hallie

““Hallie got married when I was in high school and I remember being blown away by her wedding dress. She looked so elegant and timeless in it, and I asked her after her wedding if she would let me wear it one day. She said of course!””

— Caroline

Fast forward six years later and coincidentally the SAME wedding date, August 20th, Caroline married the love of her life, Hank. 

Caroline first met Hank at his friend's apartment when they were both in town for Labor Day Weekend. She was a senior at Auburn and Hank was getting his masters at UGA. The pair immediately hit it off the first night they met. So much so, that Hank drove into town the next weekend to take Caroline on their first date. The rest is history!

““I told my mom after just a few weeks of knowing Hank that I was going to marry him. She hadn’t even met him yet and I told her I was confident he was the one and that she would probably think I was crazy for knowing so early, but she said she knew early on with my dad, too. Hank is the most genuine person I’ve ever met and even early on I felt like I could completely be myself around him.””

— Caroline

When it came time for Caroline to have her moment as a bride, she knew exactly what she wanted to wear on one of the most special days of her life. 

Caroline’s wedding day is pictured in the top two photos and her older sister, Hallie’s wedding day is pictured in the bottom two photos. We love how even their beautiful church venues match.

““I remember sometime after my wedding, Caroline asked if she could wear my dress for her wedding one day. I was so honored and of course said yes. What is so neat about this is that Caroline got married 6 years after me! So a good bit of time went by and she never changed her mind. And even more amazing, it literally fit her perfectly. I added a blush satin belt to mine, and we wanted for Caroline to have a detail to make the dress unique for her too. She chose a beautiful ivory rhinestone belt from Bustle, and I got to go with her to have a Bustle experience to try on different belts with the dress! It’s a memory that I will cherish forever!””

— Hallie

““We have very similar personalities and think the same way, so whenever I need advice I go to her.””

— Caroline

““She is one of my biggest fans and is always there for me.””

— Hallie

Photography:

Hallie’s Wedding Photography - Brittany Sturdivant

Caroline’s Wedding Photography - Jana Musselwhite