I think one can tell a lot about a couple by the way their friends and family speak of them. After a heartfelt evening of toasts at Stephen & Ariel's rehearsal dinner, it was apparent that we were in the presence of a couple whose Love was just as beautiful as their sideways glances and stolen kisses made it seem. The legend goes that it was Ariel who first caught the eye of Stephen, the handsome Vanderbilt School of Medicine student who had crashed the annual School of Nursing Christmas party. There was the way she was so captured in conversation as she moved across the room. And the way she threw her bright blonde waves back in the air as she laughed with all her soul. But really is was her smile that kept Stephen's eyes fixed upon her. While the night involved a few failed attempts at conversation, with a valiant effort Stephen, persistent and determined, managed to leave the evening's festivities with Ariel's number in hand.

There may or may not be a few crazy, fate-induced details in between. But three years (and one absolutely precious pug named Oliver) later, the Vanderbilt graduates tied the knot in that same Music City where they met and fell in love.

Stephen & Ariel, I feel so incredibly blessed to have been part of your beautiful wedding. From day one you have welcomed me into your lives and treated me with such sweet Southern kindness that I can't help but call ~~you~~ y'all friends. It's been a joy getting to watch these last few months of planning and preparation lead to such a seamlessly wonderful day. Your wedding was the type that fairy tales are made of and I've no doubt the lives ahead of you will be all the same. Thank you for letting me share in your joy and your love and your happiness. I'm truly at a loss for words to express my gratitude.

Lots of love, Michelle

Stephen and Ariel were married at Nashville's Riverwood Mansion. And while it was my first time working with Katie, Riverwood's amazing event coordinator, I left that evening desperately hoping it wouldn't be my last...