Emily & Brandon || My Old Kentucky Home

The Proposal

of

Emily & Brandon

Brandon and I met through a summer camp for children and siblings battling cancer. He was the camp director, and I showed up as the camp nurse. We have a shared passion for these kids, and it is lovely to have such a connection with my husband.
Brandon’s Story:
I had been carrying the ring around for a few months, waiting for what felt “like the right time” or finally committing to a plan to create that perfect moment for us. What ended up happening was an accidental ideal moment.
We had just spent the weekend getting to know our newly adopted dog Luna and had a pretty standard but happy weekend together. Emily was standing at her washing machine doing laundry, and Luna came running up the stairs looking glad to be at her new home. At that moment, it hit me that “this is the moment,” and at that moment, I realized that I was tired of waiting to ask, so I grabbed the ring and said, “Hey, I have a surprise for you.” Once I reassured Emily that I, in fact, “was not joking,” she happily said yes!

The Proposal

of

Emily & Brandon

We couldn’t have asked for a more relaxing or perfect wedding day. The bridal party had a late morning snack (and doughnuts brought from the groom’s party) and settled in for a day of hair and make-up. The boys hit the town while the ladies were pampered to discover the local distilleries. Our wedding was held at a public venue, so we had the luxury of an evening wedding after closing, which allowed us to take our time with photos and really enjoy the family and friends we had with us. After a personalized ceremony, we moved on to our reception. It was a night filled with delicious food, a wedding cake handmade by my grandmother, dancing, and a milkshake bar! The kids had their own cameras and caught some of the most fun photos of the evening. We were so very blessed to have the family and friends present to share in our day.
Friends old and new were able to join together in a night we will never forget.

Emily’s Story: Brandon did not see me before the ceremony, but I did a first look with my father. It was such a special time. I had tears flowing before I even saw him coming toward me. With a kiss on my hand and words of beautiful affirmation, I was ready to see my groom! It was a sunny August day, and as I made my way down the long aisle, I could not help but smile. I was so excited for the ceremony ahead and the fantastic days. When I rounded the corner and saw Brandon, I did not cry but was excited. I was just steps away from marrying the dream guy.
Brandon’s Story: Things just felt right once we got ready and arrived at the venue. I was not nervous about anything. I had my closest friends standing with me, other friends and family started to arrive, and I knew that nothing would take away from this fantastic day. I wish I could come up with the words to describe the feeling I had when I saw Emily come around the corner and start to walk down the aisle, but no words I can come up with can match the feeling of joy and happiness that I felt in that moment.

Emily’s

Bridal and Formal

Experience

My experience with Bridal and Formal was terrific. I had been to three other dress stores searching for the perfect gown. Nothing was to be found. I started to feel like I would have to change my idea of the ideal gown. I tried on three gowns at bridal and formal and knew the dress was right from the second I put it on. The staff never pressured me into anything out of my comfort zone. I told them my budget and a gown were never brought into my fitting room that was not within that. After finding the perfect dress, Mary helped me find the most beautiful veil and belt to accessorize the gown. The ordering and pick-up process was smooth, and I never had an issue. I would suggest Bridal and Formal to any bride I know.
Mary was absolutely phenomenal! She was so kind and patient. I tried on my gown twice to be sure, and Mary never complained. She gave me honest opinions and offered a view on things I did not know mattered. For example, she had me sit in my gown because, as she reminded me, you shouldn’t stand all night. After second-guessing myself, I put on a different gown. As I stood there, all I could say was, “This feels like a prom dress.” Mary smiled and said, “Well, there is your answer. You were looking for something more sophisticated all along. It’s the other dress.” I wish I could have Mary help out with any clothing decisions I need. She is amazing.