David and Hannah in the Mila Gown
The couple shared their vows at a historic church in Columbus, Georgia, capturing both tradition and elegance as they reflected on their beautiful love story.
First Love, Forever Love
David and Hannah’s love story blossomed when they were just 15 and 16. “I got so lucky. Not many people meet their husband at 15,” Hannah reflects. From Hannah’s childhood dreams of her future husband to marrying David, he embodies everything she had ever imagined. “David is the most generous, kind, and goofy person I have ever met. He respects me. He shows me how much he cares about me every day with the effort he puts in,” the bride shares.
As Christmas dawned, Hannah had just returned from a work trip, and the couple spent the night adding the finishing touches to their Christmas tree. Exhausted, she lay on the couch for a nap while David went out to get Chinese takeout. Upon his return, he played a Christmas album to gently wake her and asked Hannah to take a photo in front of the Christmas tree together. When she declined, David pivoted, getting down on one knee with a diamond ring in hand. “I was so shocked, I just fell to my knees and gave him a hug that lasted what seemed like 10 minutes,” Hannah reminisces. After the big surprise, the couple FaceTimed friends and celebrated with a bottle of champagne at Hannah’s parents’ house.
A Traditional Church Wedding in Columbus, Georgia
David and Hannah wed in Columbus, Georgia, capturing a perfect blend of tradition and elegance. They began their day getting ready at the historic Illges Woodruff House, a treasured venue in their hometown. The ceremony took place at St. Luke United Methodist Church, where David had grown up and Hannah attended youth group. The church's stunning sanctuary and the sound of the pipe organ created a magical atmosphere as Hannah walked down the longest aisle she had ever seen, describing the moment as “every little girl’s dream,” marveling at the point in time her childhood fantasies came true.
The reception and cocktail hour were held back at the Illges Woodruff House, featuring a black and white checkered dance floor and an Airstream mobile bar serving spicy margaritas. Guests danced the night away under a canopy of greenery and disco balls. “When all of our friends who came from all over the country were all there dancing and singing, my heart was so full,” the bride reminisces.
During the reception, David and Hannah enjoyed a private meal together upstairs, sharing a few quiet minutes amidst the festivities. Their grand exit was marked by smiles and joy as they ran through an aisle formed by friends and family, departing in David's father's cherished '66 Dodge Dart, and the night ending with street tacos and a cozy stay at a riverfront hotel.
Hannah’s Bridal Experience
Hannah’s bridal experience took place at our Atlanta boutique. “My stylist, Monica, was so sweet and helpful, making me feel so beautiful,” the bride reflects. Hannah arrived with her sister, mother, and grandmother, warmly greeted with champagne. The bride envisioned a simple, clean, and timeless gown with an appreciation for many dress styles and was initially drawn to high-neck or square-neck designs. However, after trying on many different styles, Hannah knew Mila was ‘The One’.
“I truly knew my dress was the one when my stylist, Monica, brought out the most beautiful veil I had ever seen,” Hannah reflects. Adorned with pearls and flowing to cathedral length, our Pearly Long Veil completed Hannah’s bridal look and made her feel radiant and confident as she departed with a glowing smile. “The whole GLL team was so welcoming. I couldn't have asked for a better wedding dress shopping experience,” she shares.
