A “work husband” and a “work wife” is how Melanie and Cory were described by their coworkers. After a few lunch outings and a completed training, the two were inseparable. Four years later, they’re tying the knot. Melanie wanted to wear a gorgeous gown with a sweetheart neckline and free from bling so that “drama” could be added to it from her chosen accessories; her headpiece being her favorite.
With classic touches, a hint of drama, and a serenade by the groom, this classic Atlanta wedding was spectacular and beautifully captured by Sophia Barrett Studios.
Bride’s Name: Melanie Gray Groom’s Name: Cory Gray Wedding Date: 10/4/2014 Wedding Location: Atlanta, GAQuick Facts
Wedding Flowers: The flowers were shades of royal purple, magenta, and hints of red roses First Dance Song: “Heatwave” – Always and Forever Favorite Menu Item: Everything was so good but the greens were yummy! Bridesmaids gifts: Personally monogrammed robes, professional makeup services by a celebrity makeup artist, earrings to wear for the wedding and gold foldable flats to change into after the wedding. I also arranged for manicurist and hairstylist to come to the suite. I wanted my ladies to feel special. Groomsmen Gifts: The groom gifted the groomsmens’ shirts, ties and pocket squares. The groom also gave each groomsman a beverage mug.
How They Met
We met during an off-site training program in Atlanta when we both worked for the same company about 4 years ago. We became friends, started going to lunch together often and began dating after we completed the training program. During the training program, other co-workers said I was his work wife and he was my work husband. I guess they must have had some insight because we have been together ever since!
Wedding Style
My wedding dress is strapless with a sweetheart neckline. It is fitted throughout the body of the dress and then flares out with plenty of layers, a chapel length train with lots of drama. I was very adamant about not having any bling on my actual dress. I wanted my dress to be simple and then accessorize my look with beautiful, unique accent pieces. My favorite accessory is my headpiece. I think my headpiece was the perfect touch. I special ordered it from a boutique in New York. When it arrived, I opened the box and said “Perfect!”.
Culture
My husband a part of a fraternity. I made sure he had a groom’s cake in the colors of his fraternity. His frat brothers surrounded me during the reception and sang their traditional “sweetheart song”. My husband got down on his knee during the song, held my hand and sang to me…I loved it!
Most Memorable Moment
Well I have two, the first one was seeing my mother cry as I walked down the aisle. The other special memory was singing and dancing for my new husband with my bridesmaids as my backup dancers. It was so much fun. He had no idea I was going to surprise him by dancing to Beyonce’s song “Love on Top”. Every time we hear that song now we both smile and remember that night.
Help A Bride Out
My advice is do what makes you happy and don’t get confused with what other people think is right. It’s your day and your memories to make. Make sure you stay true to what you and your new husband to be will want.
Vendors
Wedding Dress: Winnie Couture of Atlanta
Wedding Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Reception Dress: Custom Designed by Natt Taylor
Reception Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Headpiece: Bridal Styles Boutique
Bride’s Hair: Hair by Latise
Makeup: Mimi J
Bridesmaids Dresses: Bel Fiore Bridal
Groom and Groomsmen Suits: Men’s Wearhouse
Groom and Groomsmen Shoes: Cole Hann
Wedding Planning Services PMBK Events
Ceremony and Reception: 200 Peachtree, Atlanta, Georgia
Stationery: Papered Wonders
Photography: Sophia Barrett Studios
Videography: Charles Williams
Flowers and Decor: Edge Design Atlanta
Caterer: A Divine Event
Cakes: Cakes by Lameeka
Cake Stand and Topper: Custom made by the bride
Definitely one of the most beautiful and fun weddings I’ve ever attended! Congrats you guys :-) The photos are amazing!
The bride’s dress and shoes are to die for!