Weddings are emotional. This one was a little more than normal, because the beautiful bride and handsome groom were our own. I don’t even know where to begin to use words to try to capture the beauty and sentimental moments of September 29. Mikey and Cybile had their personal touches on everything, from the bullet boutineers to the feathers that proudly gave life and beauty to the nature inspired bouquets from Hobdy’s Too. I also know they would want me to give huge credits to their parents and friends who came and worked tirelessly to help bring their rustic vision to life at The LynnLee Barn.

It was a stunning vision, and so was every moment of this day. The joy and laughter, a few tears, and one last look in the mirror – all were an important part of making this day complete. Cybile wore Mikey’s great grandmother’s ring which has been handed down for 4 generations for her borrowed and old; Mikey teared up. Mikey used dirt surrounding Cybile’s beloved dog for the tree ceremony; Cybile’s eyes overflowed. The sweet touches were everywhere. They even found time to run to Cal Turner to hug and kiss Mema, Mikey’s great grandmother who was too ill to come to their wedding. And that’s just how they both are, more than a little spicy, full off spunk and laughter, but also sweetness that comes from the depths of their souls.

Mikey. Our rotten, blonde haired boy was both intensely sweet and wild from the beginning, and he has been a master at dreaming up creative ideas since he was five. He was always into something, had no fear even when he should, and a quick smile that would warm any heart. When he was little, he spent many days with us and followed Pa Bill’s every foot step, probably because he let him drive everything he owned. All was usually well, except the time he drove the old lawn mower Pa Bill had built him right into the side of his Uncle JoJo’s brand new truck. Those are memories we cherish, dents and all. Fast forward a few years to the awesome, intensely talented, young man Mikey has grown into. He can fix things you think are junk, build beautiful furniture, do a thousand other things you wouldn’t imagine, talk you into just about anything he wants, and also has stolen the heart of one of the prettiest girls around.

That pretty girl is Cybile. You’ll notice her smile and laughter over and over through out these pictures. It’s real. She’s beautiful inside and out, and she is as sweet as it gets. Cybile can just walk up and become a part of any conversation going. She wants to know how you are doing, and she really listens when you talk.  She is a teacher, and her love for kids, particularly those with special needs, speaks volumes about the heart of the new Mrs. Peay. She has a deep and sweet relationship with both her mom and dad, and watching each of them look at her with such pride was just another sweet touch to this beautiful day.  Cybile, we couldn’t be happier that you are a part of our family now. You are the other half to Mikey’s heart, and that is just the beginning.

I remember when I realized that Cybile really laughed when Mikey was goofy. (He can be VERY goofy.) We all saw how our handsome boy looked at her, and we knew this day would eventually come. Every love story is special and different, and those of us who have watched this one unfold have seen a beautiful story with plot twists and turns, but in the end, he put a ring on that girl’s finger, and smiled.  He even let both myself and Heather Gatewood do tons of pictures. That was a blessing to me and came about because they wanted to include both of us. Heather is Cybile’s dear friend and now cousin by marriage, and Mikey is our grandson. It was so nice to share ideas and work together to capture the beauty of their day.

Mikey and Cybile, you are perfect together. Your personalities compliment each other. Your love and talents are each amazing, but when combined are unbelievable.  But you know that it won’t always be easy, even with all you have going in your favor.  There will be storms. Life will throw things that you can’t imagine. There will be days you might not even like each other. When those days come, remember this day.  Look at how your hearts melted into one, and never ever give up because your love enough.  And when you are old and gray and rocking on your front porch, you will look back at all your lifetime and there will still be a twinkle in your eyes. You will remember and be amazed at how you could possibly love each other more than you did on September 29, but you will.

I love you both to the moon and more than words.      -Pat

Heather’s idea.  I loved this shot.

Heather’s daughters were flower girls.  They are both beautiful!

The sun was a little rough on us during the ceremony, but it was absolutely beautiful.

Rhett was all about escorting some pretty girls.

AHHHH – sunset pics.  ALWAYS worth it.  It’s the perfect husband/wife celebration.

The Creative Team

Bride’s Dress -Regis’s

Bridesmaid’s Dresses – David’s Bridal

Groom and Groomsmen’s Attire – Andrea Miller Tux Rentals

Rings – Ashcroft and Oak Jewelers

Florals – Hobdy’s Too

Cake – Betty Spears

BBQ – Mike Huntsman, Chris & Jana Brown

Decorating – Gwen Parrish & Freda Constant

Signs & Cake Stand – Uniquely Addicted Woodworks & Backporch Gypsy

DJ – Shane Hicks

-Special thanks to all those who worked behind the scenes to help serve guests

and those who helped clean up after the festivities.