Ansley and James

from The Classic Wedding Magazine - Spring 23

Jas & Eth

Imagine meeting your future spouse in ﬁrst grade. That’s exactly what happened to James and Ansley ! Way back in ﬁrst grade they created a strong friendship which carried them through high school and into college at the University of Georgia. The couple began dating the summer before their senior year. James and Ansley knew as they drove home after their second date with huge smiles on their faces that they had found their forever. Throughout their four years of dating, they enjoyed attending Georgia football games, playing golf, and raising their golden retriever, Maverick.

When it came time to propose, James asked Ansley’s father for permission, purchased the perfect engagement ring, and reached out to Ansley’s cousin, Mary Ellen Baker to plan a surprise engagement. James knew the location had to be North Campus. He planned a trip to Athens telling Ansley they were there to celebrate her birthday. Mary Ellen, who owns Georgia Grace Weddings, helped James book an amazing photographer and they put their plan into motion. Before Ansley knew it, James was on one knee as both of their families watched from a nearby building.

Ansley & James knew they wanted a classic wedding with simple and clean designs. The most important factors to them were ﬂoral design and including small details that would express their personalities and interests. Mary Ellen went from proposal planner to wedding planner, and helped the couple choose a dream team of vendors which started with their venue, The Farm at High Shoals. Before they knew it, James and Ansley were surrounded by their friends and family on a beautiful day in May.

Looking back on their wedding day, they quickly agree their ﬁrst look was one of the best moments because they were able to share their personal vows to each other all alone. James also puts the moment he saw Ansley turn the corner to walk down the aisle at the top of his list.

From their romantic outdoor ceremony, to their picturesque cocktail hour on the venue’s island, to their dance party reception featuring the band, Az-Izz...the whole day was truly one no one will ever forget.