REAL WEDDING:: Grace Kovach + William Chemell {From Math Class to Married}

Bride and groom posing on a French Quarter balcony in New Orleans, the bride wearing a flowing layered tulle gown and cathedral veil beside the groom in a classic black tuxedo.

::FEATURED IN THE 2026 SPRING PRINT EDITION OF NOW WEDDINGS MAGAZINE::

Photography by Studio Tran Photography

grace + william’s story

Grace and William’s story began quietly in a math class during their freshman year at Louisiana State University. Sitting together in the hallway before class turned into an easy friendship that lasted long after the semester ended. It wasn’t until six years later that friendship grew into something more.

Second line musicians and guests leading a lively nighttime wedding procession through the French Quarter after the ceremony.

Traditional Catholic wedding ceremony inside Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis King of France decorated with red poinsettias and glowing Christmas trees.

Playful groom's cake made to look like Miller Lite bottles chilling in an ice bucket labeled “Mama’s Place” surrounded by colorful Mardi Gras beads

Bride in a sparkling celestial-inspired reception gown dancing with a bridesmaid during the reception as guests smile and watch nearby.

Bride and groom exchanging vows at the altar during a Christmas-season ceremony surrounded by poinsettias, candlelight, and attendants in deep green attire.

William’s proposal was just as heartfelt as it was surprising. On Christmas Day, Grace began opening a large box containing a blanket when William dropped to one knee and said, “I think there is something else in there.” Inside was a tiny box with a ring. “I was so surprised and overjoyed,” Grace shares.

Flat lay of Grace and William’s wedding invitations styled with emerald jewelry, velvet ring boxes, pearl bracelet, wax seal, and white floral arrangements on a soft ivory backdrop.

Textured white wedding gown with a deep plunging neckline and layered ruffled skirt hanging in a hotel suite before the ceremony.

Newly married couple sharing champagne and smiling at one another on a wrought-iron balcony in downtown New Orleans at sunset.

Newlyweds making a festive confetti-filled grand exit in New Orleans while guests cheer and celebrate around them.

Bride and groom dancing onstage with tambourines during a lively wedding reception while guests celebrate around the dance floor.

Their wedding day was a true New Orleans celebration. As guests exited the church, a gospel choir filled the air, followed by a Second Line. “It was so New Orleans,” Grace says. From a meaningful first look to dancing on stage with family and friends, every moment felt joyful and full of love.

One especially personal detail was the wedding cake, lovingly made by Grace’s Aunt Rita. Each flower was hand-crafted and painted, making it a beautiful and meaningful gift they’ll never forget.

Four-tier white wedding cake decorated with cascading blush sugar flowers and displayed beside champagne flutes and candlelight at the reception.