It’s football time in Tennessee! Being based out of Knoxville, we see an abundance of orange and white this time of year. Who are we kidding? All year. And we also have a lot of Vol lovers out there who are our brides and grooms like this GBO themed wedding and these two UT cheerleaders who showed their skills on the dance floor.
But today, we’re celebrating Nikki and Nate’s completely unique UT tailgate wedding! Carrie Jo from Texture Photo who shot this wedding said, “Shoo Mercy! This wedding was unlike any other. Drew at AOPR & Erik Ainge both had an idea to give away a free wedding…so they did. And Nikki & Nate won! It was quite a feat for so many to help make happen, but it all came together quite beautifully! They laughed their way through all kinds of unexpected things, including the band playing Rocky Top during their vows!!! So many folks in Circle Park watched as they vowed to grow old together. And then they partied, right there in the middle of Circle Park with their friends!”
To see this wedding in all of its glory keep scrolling for stunning photos and more details from the bride!
How did you meet?
“Online, modern day romance.”
What is your favorite quality in your husband/wife?
“Loyalty.”
Who said “I love you” first?
“Nathan.”
When did you know you were falling in love?
“When he started cooking for me, spoiled yes I know!”
Favorite aspect of your wedding?
“The selfless work every person involved put in to make our day perfect, every aspect from beginning to end! The best part by far was marrying my best friend!”
Did you do a first look?
“We chose not to do the first look. He didn’t want to see me in my dress…However pictures take quite some time so if you don’t mind, I would certainly go for the first look!”
Did you have any specific design inspiration for your big day?
“Romantic/classic with rich fall colors.”
Was there a part of your wedding that held a personal significance to you or your spouse?
“Family and friends surrounding us, and Rocky Top playing by the band during our vows..”
What was the hardest part of wedding planning?
“Not knowing the time of ceremony! We didn’t know our time until a week prior to wedding! Parking was a bit difficult for our guests being at Circle Park. In the end, none of that mattered!”
Did you have a signature cocktail? What was it?
“Sweet red and white wine & a keg for the gentlemen.”
What was your first dance song, and why did you choose it?
“‘Iris’ by Goo Goo Dolls. It’s such a beautiful song that we both love.”
Tell us about your grand exit!
“Our friends and family held sparklers for our grand exit.”
What do you look forward to most as newlyweds?
“Getting to know one another better, growing together & hopefully making positive role models for our children!”
What has surprised you most during the first few months of marriage?
“Everyone has always said… things change when you get married… Things always change, its part of evolving.. The love has to grow & it’s hard work!”
Congratulations again Nikki & Nate!!
Credits:
Location: Circle Park
Photographer: Texture Photo
Wedding Planner: Amanda Ainge
Rentals & Decor: All Occasions Party Rentals
Cake: B & G All Occasion Catering
Catering: Calhoun’s & Copper Cellar Catering
Flowers: Samuel Franklin Floral & Home
Invitations: Image Matters
Bridal Shop: The Gilded Gown
Wedding Gown Designer: Lillian West
Attendants’ Attire: David’s Bridal
Tuxedos/Suits: Prestige Tuxedo
DJ: Ogle Entertainment
Hair & Makeup: WOLF + LAMB Hair Lounge
Accommodations: Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown and Holiday Inn Cedar Bluff
Wedding Bands: Kimball’s Jewelers
Bride’s Pearls: Rick Terry Jewelers
Special Parking Spot: Terry Turner (at AOPR) for giving up his parking spot for the couple!
