Chelsea & I met nearly 10 years ago when she was initiated into my sorority at the University of Georgia. From the moment I met her, I knew she was someone special. She’s vivacious, loyal, strong-willed, and incredibly servant hearted… so when I met Andrew years later while at UGA, I loved seeing her match & their story over the years. When I heard the great news that they were officially engaged and Chelsea reached out to have me capture their big day, I was hugely honored. As you’ll see from their bridal party, Chelsea & Andrea love their people. Both from big families, and with countless close relationships that supported and encouraged them throughout their dating relationship, I knew this day was special. Having the opportunity to photograph it and document those memories with their family people in the world meant so much to me.

Not only that, but when Chelsea shared that they’d be celebrating at The Cloister at Sea Island, a bucket list photography destination for me, I was even more excited. I mean: amazing couple in the most stunning of locations with so many friends from college that it felt like a little reunion? Count.me.in. In addition to that, the team at Sea Island in charge of weddings, namely Caroline & Chelsea, absolutely blew me away with their talent and service. I can’t imagine a sweeter group of people to celebrate with… you can tell they truly consider the couples & their families one of their own! The Vine added to the natural beauty of the day with their gorgeous floral designs, and Steel Toe Stiletto kept people (including me!) on their feet the entire night. That band absolutely rocked it & it showed on the dance floor!

Plus, I absolutely cried during Chelsea’s father’s speech. It was powerful and such a reminder of Jesus’ faithful love, the importance of family, and the excitement for Chelsea & Andrew! Family was honored even in their details & mementos: from Chelsea wearing her mother’s veil, to her engagement stone being the same stone her father proposed to her mother with… and later her mom gifted it to her Nana for their 50th wedding anniversary. Finally, it would only be fitting that the would celebrate in St. Simons, as it’s the beach they all grew up visiting, separately, but likely were just a few umbrellas down on the beach for years without knowing it! 😉 It truly was the most beautiful day full of such love, celebration, and praise, and I couldn’t have been more thankful to be a part!

Chelsea & Andrew – goodness, you two are just amazing. I love your story. I love how you love each other. And more than anything, I love how you let Jesus shine through it all. I absolutely can’t WAIT to see what He does in and through your lives as the Walkers. What a beautiful thing! Thank you endlessly for the honor to capture your day. So grateful for your friendship! The biggest congrats & hugs!

 

The Incredible Vendor Team

Venue, Catering, & Cake: The Cloister at Sea Island | Ceremony: The Cloister Garden | Reception: The Beach Club at Sea Island | Planners: Caroline Grogan & Chelsea Powell of Sea Island | Floral Design: The Vine | Band: Steel Toe Stiletto | Hair & Makeup: Emma Collins Beauty | Bride’s Dress: Modern Trousseau from Kelly’s Closet | Bridesmaid’s Dress: Bill Levkoff from Bride Beautiful | Men’s Attire: Men’s Warehouse | Second Shooter: Ivey Gibb Photography