The best things in life are worth waiting for, and Lori and Brad’s love story is the ultimate proof. Their journey began back in 2012 as college students at the University of Florida, where their initial days were filled with unforgettable, high-energy nights out together. By 2013, they took the massive step of moving into their first home together in Jacksonville, cementing a bond built on continuous laughter, absolute support, and a mutual love for quick weekend getaways with their beloved dog.
After five beautiful years of dating, Brad swept Lori away to Lake Travis, Texas, in July 2017. Overlooking the breathtaking expanse of the water, Brad dropped to one knee. Both were entirely ready for the moment, embarking on a long, intentional engagement that focused on living life beautifully side-by-side.
When searching for a photographer to document their long-awaited walk down the aisle, Southern Palms Studio’s stellar client reviews and competitive pricing immediately caught their eye. Knowing they wanted a team that felt completely genuine and capable of capturing authentic, unposed moments of joy, they knew they had found the perfect partnership.
A Simple, Sophisticated, and Deeply Personal Milestone
When it came to choosing the perfect backdrop, Lori and Brad didn’t have to look very far. They selected the historic San Jose Country Club, a gorgeous venue just five minutes from their house where they are already proud members. Getting married in a space that is already an active part of their daily lives added a deeply sentimental layer to an already unforgettable day.
Following Lori's expert advice to other couples to "let it be your own vision, wants, and desires that you bring to life," they designed a celebration that was completely true to them. Shunning over-the-top productions, they curated an aesthetic defined by simple, sophisticated, and classy details. Arlene Swindell designed romantic, elegant floral displays that complemented the timeless architecture of the club perfectly.
The morning of the wedding was a masterclass in effortlessly polished style. The premier team at Studio Bride, including the incredibly talented Laney and Alisa, ensured Lori looked absolutely radiant before she slipped into her gown. Every detail came together exactly as envisioned, making the multi-year countdown to the altar completely worth it.
Hearty Eats, Epic Dancing, and the Ultimate Countdown
While the ceremony was filled with profound emotion, Lori and Brad designed their reception around the two things they love most: incredible food and non-stop dancing. Instead of a traditional formal sit-down dinner, they shook things up by offering a dynamic variety of interactive food stations. Guests treated themselves to a continuous flow of tasty, hearty appetizer-style food that made it easy to fuel up without missing a single beat on the dance floor.
For dessert, the sweet details took center stage with a custom masterpiece beautifully baked by Amelia Boswell of Cake Me To Paradise. With the food stations open and the energy high, McGee Entertainment took over the microphone. They kept the dance floor absolutely electric all night long, turning the celebration into a spectacular party where everyone sang along to the couple's favorite hits under the official wedding hashtag #3.21CountdowntoCabays.
As the spectacular evening drew to a close, the new Mr. and Mrs. are looking forward to a double dose of honeymoon travel. First, they are heading out on a local getaway to Amelia Island so their favorite four-legged family member can join in on the celebration. Later this summer, they plan to pack their bags for a dream tropical escape to Greece. It is the perfect, well-deserved start to a lifetime of new restaurant dates, puppy walks, and a marriage where people will finally stop asking them when they plan to tie the knot!
Lori and Brad, thank you for letting us preserve the beautiful legacy of your gorgeous wedding day. Your love story is wonderfully steadfast, joyful, and classic. We wish you a lifetime of endless growth, incredible meals, and beautiful milestones ahead (and Lori, we hope Brad lets you borrow the Netflix remote at least occasionally!).
Vendors Who Brought It All Together
Venue: San Jose Country Club | @sanjosejax
Floral Design: Arlene Swindell
Hair & Makeup Artistry: Studio Bride (Laney & Alisa) | @studiobride | @looksbylaney_ | @alisaxmodronja
Custom Wedding Cake: Amelia Boswell (Cake Me To Paradise) | @cakemetoparadise
Entertainment & DJ: McGee Entertainment | @mcgeeentertainmentdjs
Photography: Southern Palms Studio | @southernpalmsstudio