John and Mela Lawrence

April 15, 2023

We first met at a softball game eight years ago when I played on the same team as his sister. We have known each other for a while and always kept in touch until we decided to make it official a little over a year ago. It was difficult because he traveled for his job, but it made us miss each other more. One day when we were out to eat with my Dad for my birthday, John asked my father for his blessing and then took me to Target (my favorite store). That night we were at my house, and he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him because he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me.

John said, “It meant a lot to me to hear our personal vows by the waterfall. We exchanged our vows after the ceremony because we completely forgot; however, it was perfect. I also enjoyed the first look because that was the first time I saw her in her dress, and I was in awe.”

“What made it special for me was hearing my friends’ and families’ speeches and stories of our lives and how much everyone loves John and me. Walking down the aisle with my Daddy is also something I will never forget, as well as seeing John tear up at the end of the aisle. I loved every second of it even though I was so scared things would go wrong, but everything ran smoothly,” says Mela.

Parents of the Bride: Lance Love and Shelly McHargue

Parents of the Groom: Charles Lawrence and Mila Green

Matron/Maid of Honor: Makenzie Hofert

Bridesmaids: Rylee Love, Tara Lawrence, and Lizette Hernandez

Best Man: Hunter McGilberry

Groomsmen: Jacob Rigdon, Ethan Cowart, and Seth Moten

Flower Girl: Delilah Smith

Ring Bearer: Colby Engle

Pastor / Officiant: Jeff Hart

Flowers: Hope Floral

Hair & Make-Up: Amber Haynes

Venue: Garrison Gardens