Location: Jekyll Island, Georgia, USA
Setting: Resort
Season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Number of guests: 125
Wedding theme/style: Classic, timeless, elegant.
Madison and Ryan’s story began three years after they first met, a connection that felt instantly right to Madison. “I knew right away after meeting Ryan that he was the man I was going to marry, even though we didn’t start dating until 3 years later,” Madison shared. Their journey together, filled with love, challenges, and adventures across different cities, led them to this beautiful fall day with their cherished guests.
"Everything we go through together reminds me every day how lucky I am to have found the person who lifts me up, makes me laugh, takes care of me, is always down for a new adventure, and makes me feel at home no matter where we are."
Madison and Ryan wanted their wedding to reflect the immense love they have for each other and for God, a cornerstone of their relationship.
Crane Cottage, Jekyll Island Club Resort, with its green and white aesthetics, became a perfect venue complementing the wedding’s theme of classic elegance. The lush gardens and historic architecture provided a stunning backdrop for the day’s events.
Erika Tuesta Photography captured every detail with an artistic eye, ensuring that all the details were highlighted in every shot, like the couple’s genuine emotions and the vibrant colors of the florals. Erika’s attention to detail and skill for capturing candid moments added a special touch to the couple’s wedding memories.
The day began with Madison getting ready for the ceremony, surrounded by her closest friends. She wore an elegant off-the-shoulder dress by Pronovias from White Magnolia Bridal, and kept her hair and makeup neutral glam by Studio Bride. Her accessories included delicate pearl earrings and a veil that added a romantic touch to her bridal look. Madison’s bouquet featured timeless orchids, which also adorned the vibrant centerpieces, adding a sophisticated touch to the composition.
The bridesmaids, dressed in satin olive green gowns, complemented Madison’s style perfectly, holding bouquets that mirrored the bride’s in their beauty.
Meanwhile, Ryan prepared for the day with his groomsmen, donning a blue suit paired with a white shirt and a boutonniere that matched Madison’s bouquet.
During the couple’s first look, they read their vows privately, expressing their deep love and commitment to each other. “Our wedding day will be the best day of my life,” Madison said.
Erika Tuesta captured this moment beautifully, highlighting the couple’s joy and the serene backdrop of the resort. Her talent for using natural light and picturesque settings made the couple’s memories even more special.
The ceremony took place outdoors, under the lush canopy of trees, creating a picturesque setting. The decor featured a mixture of warm and neutral tones, with floral arrangements lining the aisle and adorning the altar.
Madison and Ryan’s love for each other was evident as they shared a heartfelt kiss in front of family and friends, with a backdrop of nature’s beauty enhancing the emotional atmosphere.
"What inspires me most about our big day is just knowing it’s the first start of our forever together."
During cocktail hour, guests mingled in the beautiful courtyard, enjoying the elegant ambiance and picturesque surroundings. Their attire, featuring a mix of vibrant colors, complemented the wedding’s theme perfectly, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
As the sun was setting, Madison and Ryan shared a private moment walking around the venue’s grounds. The golden light of the sunset created a romantic and ethereal setting, making for stunning photographs that the couple will cherish forever.
The couple envisioned a classic, elegant reception with a color palette of neutrals, dusted peach, ivory, gold, and silver, accented with pops of plum. Kaley Stephens from Borrowed and Blue GA brought this wish to life, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere at the historic Crane Cottage without making it feel like a typical fall wedding. Marble and Pine designed the stunning floral arrangements, incorporating white roses, warm fall tones, and plum-colored blooms to add color.
The reception was held in the garden, with tables adorned with elegant centerpieces, candles, and neutral-colored linens. The stationery kept timeless and elegant, complementing the overall theme. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner, followed by heartfelt toasts and the couple’s first dance under twinkling lights. Madison surprised Ryan with a last dance to a song by his favorite artist, a special moment just for the two of them.
The evening concluded with the cutting of a textured tiered cake decorated with matching sugar orchids from Sweet Luncheonette. The band, The Life Atlantic, kept the guests entertained, making the night memorable for everyone present.
Advice from the couple:
• Take a few minutes before the ceremony to relax.
PHOTOGRAPHER Erika Tuesta Photography | VIDEOGRAPHER Lunic Visuals | PLANNER & DESIGN Borrowed and Blue GA | VENUE Jekyll Island Club – Crane Cottage | FLORALS Marble and Pine | MUAH Studio Bride | DRESS Pronovias | BRIDAL BOUTIQUE White Magnolia Bridal | CAKE Sweet Luncheonette | BAND The Life Atlantic