Cassy and Brad’s blended family wedding at Chapel in the Hollow was a heartfelt celebration of unity and love, beautifully set against a backdrop of cinnamon and champagne fabrics. The chapel was adorned with our white succulent florals, a simple pumpkin package, and candles, creating a warm and inviting ambiance for their special day.
Cassy was absolutely stunning in an off-the-shoulder dress with gauzy sleeves and layers of gorgeous fabric, perfectly paired with a long veil and cinnamon-colored shoes. Brad looked sharp in a tan suit, complementing Cassy’s autumnal look. Their sons, dressed in navy suits, stood proudly with them, symbolizing the beautiful blending of their families.
The day was filled with touching moments, starting with Cassy and Brad’s first look, followed by a very special first look with their children, a poignant moment that brought them all closer together. Cassy then walked herself down the aisle, pausing under the archway to take a few steadying breaths before meeting Brad at the altar.
During the ceremony, not only did Cassy and Brad exchange vows, but they also made heartfelt promises to their children, and in a truly touching gesture, had their children say vows to each other, affirming their bond as a new family unit.
After the ceremony, the family gathered for photos, capturing the joy and unity of the day. The celebration continued with just Cassy and Brad as we captured fun and loving moments of the couple together, reveling in their newly official bond.
Congratulations, Cassy and Brad! Your wedding was not just a union of two hearts but a celebration of family coming together. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness as you journey through life as one family!
From the Bride and Groom
How did you meet?
Groom: We met when we were in middle school. Cassy was my sister’s friend. Apparently I was mean, I don’t remember it like that. But I thought she was cute but never really talked to her. Then we reconnected after some years.
Bride: We met fifteen to twenty-some years ago when Brad’s sister was my best-friend. According to him, he thought I was cute. I thought he was mean. He would pick on and torment the two of us when he was around. And if I’m honest Brad was kind of cute as well, but he was my friend’s brother, eww! Life took all three of us in different directions. Brad and I each were gifted with two boys from past marriages. Come to find out Brad and I had several connections throughout the years. Two of our boys played against each other in little league tee ball. Three of our boys went to the same preschool, although never in the same class. Among many other connections throught the years.
What was your first date like?
Groom: I was a little nervous, but not as much as I thought I’d be. It was good. We seemed to connect and vibe really well. Conversation didn’t seem forced, everything felt natural. I know I shocked her with the love languages question. Lol
Bride: We met at a restaurant for our first date. We had a good conversation and as we were about to leave he asked me what my love language was. I was blown away he even knew about them but then asked follow up questions to make sure we understood them the same way. Before knowing all of mine he told me his in order and ours match up.
Who proposed?
Groom: I did. I went out one Saturday, picked out a ring and decided I was going to do it that night. We went to the winery and I had planned to do it at sunset. I was able to get someone to video it for us on the dock. I think she thought something was up because apparently I was acting differently.
Bride: Brad proposed to me at Country Heritage Winery. We shared some wine enjoying the atmosphere before taking a walk around the property. We went down to the dock over the pond to see the fish. He asked a random gentleman to take our picture with the sunset when he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. I didn’t realize at the time, but he actually asked the guy to record the proposal. It was perfect fall day with a beautiful sunset.
What made you decide on East Tennessee for your wedding?
Groom: I love the fall vibe and though it looked cool. I know Cassy really loves the chapel and fall time in the mountains will be perfect!
Bride: I’ve been dreaming of going to Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge to vacation and seeing the fall foliage for several years. We both come from big families and lots of friends to invite. We wanted to keep the guest list small. The idea of eloping was appealing, but I knew I would have wished our children and immediate family could attend if we eloped. I saw Chapel in the Hollow on Pinterest and immediately fell in love. After looking into vendors and accommodations knew we’d be able to combine an extended family vacation, our wedding and a familymoon into one special celebration!
What are you most looking forward to on your wedding day?
Groom: Spending a few days with our immediate families in the cabin and then having the people closest to us there to celebrate our big day with us. And of course, Cassy becoming Mrs. Black and me finally being able to see this dress I’ve been hearing so much about.
Bride: Spending several days with family in a big cabin, seeing everything we’ve been planning come together, celebrating with family, FINALLY showing Brad my dress, my dress, oh and becoming Mrs. Black!!
Is there a significance to the date you chose?
Groom: Cassy likes the fall the most. Plus it was a time when we could get all of our boys together land have an extended trip.
Bride: Fall is my favorite! We narrowed it down to two of our boys fall break week because we wanted them to attend without missing too much school. We like the song ‘Tuesdays’ by Jake Scott. We liked 10/15 the best and it happened to be a Tuesday.
What do you two do for fun?
Groom: We’re so busy with kids schedules that that consumes most of our time. When we get to go out we like to just goof off, either going to dinner or walking around a store, just something to get us out and have fun.
Bride: We learned from many life lessons, reconnected, and found happiness in each other. We are looking forward to officially blending our family into our ‘PartyOfSix’.