Courtney Etchison And Thomas Wileman April 28, 2012
A
lthough U.S. Navy officer Thomas Wileman was deployed during much of the planning stage, he knew the details of his wedding day were in the creative hands of his fiancée, Courtney Etchison. Engaged for slightly over a year, the two planned to marry in Clemmons, where she was born and raised and he spent much of his youth. Their dream day – vows at Clemmons First Baptist Church and reception at The Broyhill Center – would be traditional all the way, but with a vintage twist, and with what Courtney describes as a “garden feel” to it. She chose spring bouquets of mixed colors for a “just-picked” look that complemented midori green chiffon bridesmaids’ dresses and her father, a landscape designer, added his touch of elegant lighting to the venue’s charming courtyard. (The couple also stole a few moments together during the night for a slow dance in that courtyard!) Since family and tradition are major factors in their lives, the bride and groom added many touches to honor both. Thomas wore his dress blues for the occasion and they cut their wedding cake with his uncle’s Navy sword. Courtney’s bouquet was adorned with her grandmother’s brooch and wrapped with lace from her mother’s wedding dress, perfectly accenting her elegant strapless gown. As a creative personal touch, photos of the bride and groom through the years were displayed around the venue and, since both are Volume II / Issue I