I LOVE Rachel & Murray’s story because it’s so relatable to a UGA grad like me, and it also shows that one bold move can end up being the best thing you’ve ever done…
Rachel and Murray met on the very first day of classes their freshman year of college at UGA (2008). Murray was sitting on a bench outside of their History of Rock class when Rachel walked up and boldly introduced herself, asking if Murray was waiting for the same class. They ended up sitting together that day and every day afterward. For the next two years, they’d casually run into each other around campus, until AthFest 2010 led to more frequent hangouts. They then had their “official” first date at the Last Resort Grill (my favorite restaurant too!), and the rest is history! In September 2015, Murray proposed to Rachel on the bench where it all began, and they tied the knot this August.
I love how “Athens” their wedding was. Rachel got ready at Hotel Indigo where she shared an emotional first look with her Dad before heading over to UGA’s campus. We experienced a few raindrops but were still able to get some gorgeous shots on north campus prior to the ceremony! The ceremony was held in the UGA Chapel, where Rachel had performed many times with her a cappella group in college (I actually attended one of these concerts before ever knowing Rachel!). They then traveled over to the Lyndon House Arts Center for their reception. I also love how many unique & personal touches were included in their wedding plans…
Murray’s wedding ring is 68 years old, belonged to his late grandfather, and fit Murray perfectly without ever being resized. Rachel’s 14k white gold wedding band is hands-down the most delicate & precious ring I’ve ever held, and it’s custom-made from one of Rachel’s favorite places on earth (New Orleans’ Frenchmen Street Art Market). The flowers on the Chapel doors & the ladies’ bouquets were done by family members, as well as most decorations. Rachel designed & printed all paper materials herself and also made the white flower clips that adorned her “something blue” shoes. There are too many personal touches to name, and the couple says that they owe so many “thank you’s” to their families for all the hard work & love they put into creating this dream wedding.
I am thrilled that Rachel reached out to me to document this special time… I only wish I had met her & Murray before they moved away from the Classic City. Through the entire wedding process, I’ve learned that we share so many of the same interests and hobbies. My favorite part of my job will always be that it connects me to wonderful people that I otherwise may have never met. Thank you, Rachel & Murray, for not only trusting me to capture your memories but also for bringing a smile to my face throughout the entire process.
Getting Ready: Hotel Indigo || Ceremony Venue: UGA Chapel || Reception Venue: Lyndon House Arts Center || Hair: Debbie Wiley || Bride’s Dress: Formally Yours || Bride’s Engagement Ring: Blue Nile || Bride’s Wedding Band: Alison Ford Metals || Mens’ Wear: Men’s Wearhouse || DJ: Ultimate Sound Disc Jockey || Florist: Mallory Kelly & Kathy Smith || Caterer: Saucehouse BBQ || Ceremonial music: Jonathon Sparks || Day-of Coordinator: Susan Weise || Photography: Claire Diana Photography
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