Abbey and Seth’s wedding in Tennessee was a dream in black and white, but what truly set it apart were the thoughtful details and heartfelt moments that made the day uniquely theirs. Set against the rolling hills of the Smoky Mountains, their celebration was so elegant and authentic, surrounded by quiet beauty. The photographer, Sarah Burnette, masterfully captured every glance, tear, and laugh, preserving them in a way that felt both timeless and intimate.
Location: Blountville, Tennessee, United States
Style: Classic, Romantic, Elegant
Time of planning: 14 months
Number of guests: 90
Setting: Chateau
Season: Summer
Abbey and Seth’s love story started in the most unexpected of times—during COVID. Introduced by mutual friends, they built a connection that felt natural from the very beginning. From long summer days by the lake to navigating a long-distance relationship for three years, their bond only grew stronger. “Through it all, we found an unshakeable love,” shared the bride.
By July 2023, Seth knew it was time to make things official. With a well-planned surprise proposal surrounded by family and friends, he got down on one knee—and Abbey didn’t hesitate for a second. “In that instant, my heart swelled with love and joy!” recalled the bride. Their wedding was meant to reflect that same love: personal, intimate, and filled with meaning.
Bridal Morning
Abbey’s morning was all about soaking in the excitement with her closest friends. She wore a strapless gown from Watters with a subtle drop waist—elegant yet effortlessly modern. But the best part was when she paired it with white Golden Goose sneakers, bringing comfort and a bold personality to her bridal look. Her jewelry was a mix of meaningful and stylish: pearl drop earrings from Nadri, a bracelet passed down from Seth’s great-grandmother, and her wedding ring from Faithful Platforms.
For perfume, she chose Replica, a scent that felt just right for the occasion. “The whole experience felt so natural and full of joy,” shared the bride. Abbey did her own makeup, adding a personal touch to the morning, while her maid of honor’s mom, someone she considers family, styled her hair.
"When it came to my bouquet, I knew I wanted something timeless and elegant—white roses. They're simple yet stunning!"
Groom's Fashion
Seth kept it classic with a black tuxedo from Jarvis Couture paired with a crisp white shirt, black vest, and sleek Perry Ellis dress shoes. But just like Abbey, he made a quick switch for the reception, trading his formal shoes for a pair of Golden Goose sneakers to match his bride. “To complete the ensemble, my boutonnière was a simple yet elegant white rose, adding to the classic black-tie aesthetic,” shared the groom.
Thoughtful details completed his look: custom cufflinks, a Breitling SuperOcean watch gifted by his father, and a meaningful David Yur necklace from Abbey. Before the big moment, he took a quiet second alone to take it all in. “I thanked God for the incredible blessing of marrying Abbey and used that time to calm my nerves and center myself for the beautiful day ahead,” recalled the groom.
First Look
Nestled in the lush greenery of Chateau Selah, Abbey and Seth’s first look was nothing short of magical. Sarah Burnette captured every second—the way Seth’s hands flew to his face in awe, the way Abbey’s eyes sparkled with joy. With both digital and film photography, she preserved the raw emotion of that moment, ensuring that their first look could be relived forever. They exchanged private vows, just the two of them, making the moment even more intimate. It was one of those memories they’d never forget.
"It was a sacred and deeply personal moment that set the tone for everything that followed."
Ceremony
Their ceremony took place beneath a wooden pergola adorned with white florals by Restoration Blooms, set against the breathtaking Tennessee hills. The atmosphere was emotional yet peaceful, with the couple incorporating prayer and worship into their vows—a beautiful reflection of their faith. Every detail, from the carefully selected song played during the ceremony to the guests’ warmth, set the tone for a deeply romantic, personal, and unforgettable moment.
"It truly was everything we dreamed of and more."
One of the most meaningful moments of the ceremony was when the couple and their guests joined together in prayer and worship, creating a powerful sense of unity. Inviting their loved ones into this sacred moment made their vows feel even more profound, grounding their marriage in faith and shared love. Guests later described it as one of the most heartfelt ceremonies they had ever witnessed.
"The feeling of finally being married, surrounded by the stunning scenery and the people who mean so much to us, was overwhelming. I couldn't stop crying, and it felt almost surreal—like we were in a dream, unable to believe that we were actually married."
Cocktail Hour
The celebration continued with a laid-back cocktail hour, where guests sipped on the couple’s signature drinks—Abbey’s go-to vodka soda and Seth’s Old Fashioned. The golden afternoon light made everything feel even more magical as guests mingled, laughed, and toasted to the newlyweds. Every element of the hour was designed to enhance the natural beauty of the venue, keeping things simple yet unforgettable.
Reception & Decor
Stepping into the reception felt like entering a world of timeless elegance. A glass-enclosed hall with panoramic mountain views set the stage for an evening of celebration. Tables were draped in crisp white linens, black napkins adding contrast, and single-stem white roses standing tall in candlelit arrangements. “The flowers would add soft touches of life and beauty, but in a way that felt grounded and organic—just like us,” shared the bride. The checkered black-and-white dance floor became the focal point of the evening.
The vision for this wedding reflected who they were as a couple. From the beginning, the bride envisioned a classy yet understated celebration, something that felt effortlessly beautiful without being overly extravagant. “The planning process itself was a labor of love!” The couple.
The couple’s first dance to The Way I Love You by Michal Leah was a beautifully intimate moment. “We knew it was the perfect choice. The song beautifully captures the way we love and show affection for one another,” shared the bride.
Laughter and cheers filled the room as Abbey and Seth poured champagne into a cascading tower, raising their glasses in gratitude to everyone who had traveled to Tennessee to celebrate with them.
The cake cutting brought another lighthearted moment—their three-tiered white chocolate raspberry cake by Petite Sweets, adorned with delicate sugar pearls, was almost too beautiful to slice.
Party
As night fell, the energy only grew. A playlist packed with 2000s and 2010s hip-hop and R&B hits kept the dance floor alive, with guests celebrating in full force. The atmosphere was electric, fueled by endless laughter, great music, and the kind of joy that only comes from being surrounded by your favorite people.
Later in the night, Abbey made a stunning outfit change into a pearl-embellished mini dress, the perfect choice for the after-party. The dance floor turned into a full-blown party, with glow sticks in the air and drinks in hand.
For the grand finale, streams of white silly string filled the room as everyone cheered. Abbey and Seth shared one last kiss in the middle of it all—wrapped up in laughter, love, and the best kind of chaos.
Advice from the couple:
• Make the day all about you and your partner. It might seem obvious, but it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of the wedding day. Make it a point to spend the entire day together—start the morning side by side, share a quiet first look, carve out time to enjoy dinner together, and don’t forget that special private last dance. Cherish those moments when it’s just the two of you. Trust us, it will make the day 10 times more meaningful and unforgettable.
PHOTOGRAPHER Sarah Burnette Photo | SUPER 8 Abby Fawbush Creative | VENUE Chateau Selah | SHOP WED Bridal Boutique | FLORAL Restoration Blooms | SUIT Jarvis Couture | RINGS Faithful Platforms | CAKE Petite Sweets | CATERING & BAR Divine Catering | RENTALS POP Event Company
