From Demo Days to "I Do": Getting Married at Our Dream Home
Building a house is more than bricks and mortar; it's about creating a space filled with love and memories. Cloud Cline wasn't just a renovation project for us – it became the backdrop for one of life's most significant milestones: our wedding. While many couples choose traditional venues, for us, there was no place more meaningful than the house where our love story began.
A Proposal Steeped in Shared Passions
Vince and I met at Cloud Cline when it was a different story – a dilapidated shell, riddled with termites, a lingering odor, and dysfunctional plumbing. We both, however, saw its potential, just like we saw the potential in each other. It became a metaphor for our journey together – transforming something raw and urban into a space that reflects our personalities, dreams, and everything the future holds. You can read more about those early days here.
Planning with a Partner (and a Power Drill)
Wedding planning at Cloud Cline took on a unique twist. Weekdays and weekends were filled with laughter (and yes, some intense moments of fellowship) as we tackled renovations alongside discussions about venues and guest lists. The additional challenge of Vince living in St. Louis and commuting every other weekend to Atlanta added a layer of stress, but it also strengthened our bond.
A Wedding Planner's Dream (or Nightmare?)
Finding a wedding planner who embraced our vision was key. Luckily, we connected with the amazing Alicia of Ace Creative Events, who ran with our ideas and helped transform a construction zone into a wedding wonderland. There was just one small hurdle – the house itself needed some serious TLC before it could host our special day.
The Pre-Wedding Scramble
The to-do list was daunting: installing wood floors, building and installing kitchen cabinets, building a deck, landscaping the yard, renovating bathrooms – all while my fiancé, bless his heart, was working in St. Louis! Fortunately, family stepped in to help. My sister, a calming force in the midst of chaos, became our construction crew cheerleader.
Building Memories, Almost Literally
Building the deck was a test of our pre-marital harmony. But with the help of more amazing family members, we persevered. The finished product may not have revealed the behind-the-scenes drama, but the pictures tell a different story!
The Fridge that Almost Stole the Show
The day before the wedding, a hilarious logistical hurdle emerged: the 1960s doorway wouldn't accommodate our modern refrigerator! Our unflappable wedding planner, Alicia, took it all in stride. Along with Vince and our nephews, doors and framing were removed to get the fridge in place. It was a wedding planning anecdote we'd never forget!
A Day Steeped in Southern Charm
Our wedding day at Cloud Cline was a celebration of love, family, and Southern charm. The backyard, transformed from a construction zone into a wonderland by the incredibly talented Alicia, perfectly reflected our vision. We envisioned a big party filled with friends and family witnessing our vows and dancing to the band's tunes. Classic Southern touches like barbecue, grits, bourbon, and cigars added to the festive vibe. And let's not forget the "good plan" of burying bourbon at the alter – a playful nod to a alleged rain-prevention tradition.
The Almost-Disaster (and the Power of a Cool Head)
Of course, no wedding is complete without a little chaos. Just as the dance party hit its peak, a spring shower threatened to dampen our spirits (literally!). But remembering the buried bourbon, we embraced the moment. The rain became a source of amusement and a natural ending to the evening, allowing us to wrap up the festivities within city noise restrictions. Looking back, it added a touch of spontaneity and laughter, making it a truly unforgettable ending to a fabulous party.
A Love Story Built on a Strong Foundation
Cloud Cline may be a work in progress, but the love story it holds is forever etched in our hearts. The lessons learned, the memories made, and the foundation built – both literally and figuratively – will forever be a part of this house. As we continue to renovate Cloud Cline, we do so with the knowledge that it's not just a house; it's a testament to the enduring power of love, laughter, and a little bit of Southern charm.
So, what are your tips for renovating a home while getting married? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
