It never fails, when I see a wedding captured by Harwell Photography I find myself captivated. I absolutely adore how Jeremy captures moments and details, and when he is behind the lens of a wedding like this beauty planned by Elly B Events, magic happens. His images tell the story of this gorgeous couples’ stunning day, and you can see it all right here.
From the Bride…“And think not you can direct the course of love, for love, if it finds you worthy, directs your course.” – Kahlil Gibran, On Love (The Prophet)
In college, I read many of the writings of Kahlil Gibran and was captivated by his reflections on love, friendship and the soul. Much to my surprise, in the extra hour afforded by daylight savings during the final party of homecoming weekend, I met a man named for my favorite writer and knew instantly that he was special. It didn’t take us long to fall in love. Years later, Gibran surprised me with plane tickets to attend our homecoming at Morehouse and Spelman College. While at the football game, Gibran asked my dad for his blessing to marry me. When he proposed the next day, of course I said “Yes!”
Although Gibran and I had recently relocated to Philadelphia, we knew that we would marry in Atlanta where our love story began. We wanted to create an intimate, relaxed, and fun affair with classic, easy elegance. Everything started falling beautifully into place when we found our venue. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center is a garden oasis in the city with sprawling lawns and a stunning tudor mansion. Inspired by Callanwolde, we incorporated art throughout the wedding including custom silhouette illustrations for our stationery, live music during the ceremony and cocktail hour, a specially made family photo wall, and hand-cut silhouettes for our guests as favors.
We selected the ampitheater for the ceremony, and it was the perfect backdrop for our celebration. Guests arrived by trolley and the day was warm and bright. I wore a chantilly lace gown by Augusta Jones and a cathedral length veil. Gibran was handsome in a Paul Smith tuxedo. We invited our parents to participate in our union by reading a libation blessing, poem, prayer and charge before we jumped the broom. Guests then walked to the front terrace for the cocktail hour, and we joined our dog, Marvin, in the garden for photos. Marvin was dressed for the occasion and even tried to kiss the bride!
The reception was held in the indoor courtyard draped with layers of white sheers and crystals. The decor included a long floral garland, lush chair swags, bow-tied napkins, and birdcage centerpieces. After dinner and toasts, the lights were dimmed low and spirits were high as we danced with family and friends. Our wedding day passed quickly, but we are thankful for the moments we shared with those dearest to us, and for the memories made as we start our life together.
Photography: Harwell Photography | Event Planning: ellyB Events | Floral Design: Perfect Creations | Cake: For Goodness Cakes | Invitations: Paper Parfait | Ceremony Venue: Callanwolde Fine Arts Center | Rings: Craiger Drake Designs | Catering: Zest | Makeup: Kristen Harris | Hair: Michelle Allen Of Salon On The IX | Silhouette Artist: Edward Casey