WEDDINGS
Broedell & Ciociola
BY LENA MIANO PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB TESAR, ROBTESAR.COM
W
hen Chapel Hill native Courtney Broedell needed help with a college assignment in 2015, her best friend, Stephanie Martin, knew Steven Ciociola was just the person to call. After being introduced over the phone, the two instantly connected and kept in touch. Two months later, Steven drove from UNC Charlotte to UNC Wilmington to take Courtney out on their first date, and the long-distance relationship began. While on a trip to Wilmington in October 2020, Steven took the opportunity to propose to Courtney in the city where their love story began. As they watched the sunrise on the beach, Steven said, “Since this is the place where we first fell in love, it’s only fitting that I ask you this.” He then got down on one knee as Stephanie, who had been there in disguise the whole time, unveiled herself to photograph the occasion. Courtney and Steven shared their vows at NorthStone Country Club in Huntersville, North Carolina, on Oct. 7, 2022. Michelle Morency perfected Courtney’s hair for the special day. Courtney’s brother, Richie Broedell, officiated the wedding, making for a more personal ceremony with friends and family, like her parents, Donna Broedell and Richard Broedell. Courtney and Steven performed a choreographed routine to “Hunger” by Ross Copperman for their first dance and then spent hours dancing the night away. Courtney is a senior communications manager, and Steven is a project manager for a software company. The couple lives in Huntersville with their two cats, Ava and Jack. CM 176
CHATHAM MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2023