Tia and Michael’s love story began at Syracuse University in 2012, where the two met during Tia’s first week as a Freshman. Little did they know that this chance meeting would set the stage for an extraordinary journey filled with long-distance trials, the joys of parenthood, and a proposal that unfolded in the most intimate of settings.
Michael’s entry into the NBA draft took him away from Tia, prompting years of navigating a long-distance relationship. Yet, their commitment endured, leading to a joyous reunion in 2017 when they finally moved in together. The couple welcomed their first bundle of joy, Charleigh, in 2018, who later graced their wedding ceremony as the adorable flower girl. A surprise proposal in 2021 on their front porch, with their daughter still sleeping and coffee in hand, added a sweet and unexpected chapter to their love story.
The global pandemic threw a curveball into their wedding plans, prompting them to opt for a courthouse ceremony with only their daughter and best friend in attendance. However, the unexpected turn of events became a blessing in disguise, creating a carefree atmosphere for the eventual celebration. The birth of their son, Redd, in the summer of 2021, added another layer of joy to their lives, making their wedding celebration even more special.
Celebrating 11 years together by the time of their wedding, Tia and Michael aimed for a sacred and intimate experience. The carefully curated guest list of 150 consisted of only people they had each met from the other’s ‘side’ and people who had a relationship with their children. This intentional approach transformed the wedding weekend into a joyous party where catching up was unnecessary because their guests were already so involved on a day to day basis.
The couple’s decision to have an outdoor ceremony in June-August posed a challenge, given Michael’s NBA offseason commitments. However, their search led them to the enchanting Lake House in Canandaigua, featured on the “Travel and Leisure best 100 hotels in the world” list. The venue, with its scenic beauty and inviting ambiance, provided the perfect backdrop for a celebration that felt like a gathering at a family lake house.
The transformation of an industrial barn into a cozy dinner scene with a candlelit vibe, featuring custom yellow beams and star chandeliers, left everyone in awe. The reception, unlike anything seen before, became a testament to the creative vision of Augusta and her team. The following day’s casual pool party replaced the traditional farewell brunch, allowing guests to savor lake views and extend the festivities.
Tia’s preference for a collaborative and creative approach to wedding planning resulted in a stunning display of earth tones, natural materials, and an abundance of florals. The emphasis on yellow, paired with wood, bamboo, and raffia, created a theme that was both elegant and uniquely them.
We can’t forget the bride’s favorite element – the 1942 shots rimmed with Tajin, waiting for their guests as they were being seated for the ceremony.
As the couple embarked on this new chapter of their lives, surrounded by love, laughter, and a touch of 1942 shots rimmed with Tajin, Tia and Michael’s wedding became a celebration of a decade-long love story, uniting family, friends, and two adorable little ones. The Lake House provided the perfect setting for this magical day, leaving everyone with cherished memories of a wedding that was as extraordinary as the couple themselves.
Venue @lakehousecdga
Photography @erickelley
Planning & Design @augustacole
Floral & Decor @bowen.studio
Videography @moonandbackco
Hair @marissamartonihair
Makeup @linamourey
Gown @galialahav
Entertainment @elanartists
Event Planner @colettemacari
Stationery @dearelouise
READ MORE: THIS ADVENTUROUS AUSTRALIAN COUPLE HAD A BEACHFRONT DESTINATION WEDDING IN FIJI
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