How did you two meet?
Laura: "John and I actually met at a wedding! I had just started PT school in Birmingham and returned to Auburn that Labor Day weekend to watch one of my teammates marry her high school sweetheart. At the rehearsal, I found myself paired with a handsome Auburn native who just so happened to be taller than me— tall bridesmaids, can I get an, "Amen?" He made me laugh and was a perfect gentleman; however, never in a million years did I think anything would come of it! We talked for hours over brunch that Sunday and the rest is history!"
John: "The first time I met Laura I immediately knew she was different from other girls. I remember being at the wedding where we met, and thinking that I was not going to let the weekend go by without asking her on a date. I asked and for some reason she said yes! Laura genuinely makes me laugh and is always up for an adventure!"
How and when did John propose?
Laura: "John’s family takes a trip to Pine Mountain, Georgia every spring. On the night we arrived, John suggested the two of us wake up early to watch the sunrise, a 'tradition' we’d started the year before. Looking back, I should have known something was up— he was so motivated to wake up early on vacation! The next morning, we watched the sun rise over the mountains, and just as I turned from taking a shameless solo-shot, John dropped to a knee. Ugly tears soon followed, and we spent a perfect day celebrating with both of our families at the cabin."
What are some things y’all like to do together?
Laura: "We’re die-hard Auburn fans who love great food, good music and time spent with friends and family!"
What’s one of the things you admire most about John?
Laura: "John is the guy making people laugh. He has the kindest heart and loves deeply. Early in our relationship, it became evident how adored he was by friends and family. He’s a genuinely good-guy who remains steadfast in his faith. He’s a blessing beyond anything I could have ever asked or imagined!"
John-- what's one thing you admire most about Laura?
John: "What I admire the most about Laura is her work ethic, her heart and her ability to bring out the very best in people. I learned quickly that Laura is such a hard worker, and I was able to see that by all of the accomplishments in swimming and her path she had taken to get into PT school. Laura has a huge heart and she loves and cares for her friends and family so well. Laura also brings the best out in people. I can honestly say everyday she pushes me and encourages me to be the best man I can possibly be, and I am so thankful for that."
What was your favorite part of the big day?
Laura: "Our vendors knocked it out of the park! We can’t thank them enough for going above and beyond to make sure our day was perfect. The first look I did with my dad was so special. Standing before him in my wedding dress was a dream come true! My favorite part of the day was then seeing John. I’ve never felt more beautiful, and I cry on command just thinking about it!"
John: "My favorite part of the big day was mine and Laura’s first look. I was waiting in the courtyard, heard her coming towards me and was filled with every emotion possible. When I turned around, I couldn’t believe I was looking at my soon-to-be bride on our wedding day. It was the best feeling and a moment I will never forget!"
What’s next for you two?
Laura: "We returned from our honeymoon just in time to celebrate the first birthday of our Great Pyrenees, Dirk! I am in my last semester of physical therapy school and will graduate in May. We are loving life in Birmingham and look forward to making memories as a married couple in 2018!"
Vendors:
Church: Frazer United Methodist Church
Reception: RSA Activity Center
Dress and veil: Maggie Sottero— I Do Bridal and Formal— Montgomery, AL
Florals: Graylillies—Montgomery, AL
Hair and makeup: Vital Beauty Bar— Montgomery, AL
Bridesmaid dresses: Sorella Vita— I Do Bridal and Formal— Montgomery, AL
Groom and groomsmen tuxedos: Joseph A. Bank— Auburn, AL
Catering: Montgomery Catering— Montgomery, AL
Cakes: McKinney Cakes— Montgomery, AL
Invitations: Kwik Kopyshop— Montgomery, AL
Band: 2nd Coming— Music Garden
Rentals: Brendle Rentals— Montgomery, AL