REAL WEDDING:: Kaylyn Ingram + Sheldon Ray {Dixieland Delight}

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FEATURING KAYLYN AND SHELDON’S WEDDING::

Photography by Emma Kent Photography

kaylyn and sheldon’s story

“Sheldon and I have known each other since we were 18 years old,” says Kaylyn. Although the two felt a connection at that young age, the timing wasn’t right. “I played college softball and moved away, he stayed home to work so our first try never worked,” shares Kaylin. Two years later they both ended up at The University of Alabama, but as Kaylyn puts it, “I was not ready for Sheldon because I knew I would marry him if we ever got serious.” Another two years went by and after a bad breakup, Kaylyn found herself passing Sheldon’s house as she went for a run. Was it on purpose? “Maybe,” she shares with a smile. “He drove by and said hello, I immediately felt those butterflies again. I texted him when I got home and knew I was ready to be with him forever.”

Kaylyn and Sheldon lived in Tuscaloosa, AL for 5 years early in their relationship. On a visit back to the town, under the guise of taking family Christmas photos, Sheldon proposed at Lake Tuscaloosa. “He took me to the prettiest view, with rose petals, and a picnic setup to propose. All my family was there and it was so perfect!”

the wedding

“It rained literally the whole day of our wedding,” says Kaylyn who was worried because she dreamed of an outdoor wedding. “Well, right at the time of the ceremony, the rain stopped and we were able to have our ceremony outside. Once we completed the vows and ring exchange, and walked out as Mr. And Mrs., the rain started again. Truly a God moment and it was perfect.”

the reception

The wedding reception included many meaningful details. The couple chose 3 signature cocktails to serve at their reception. “Our drink signage was our 3 golden doodle pups, we wanted to include them in the wedding somehow!” says Kaylyn. “The Willow was Sheldon’s favorite drink (vodka/cranberry) and The Stella was my favorite drink (coconut rum, pineapple, sweet grenadine). The Harry was just a classic whiskey and a coke.”

“Our guest book was very non-traditional,” shares Kaylyn. “I have always loved my grandmothers and great grandmothers quilts that have been passed down.” Kaylyn ordered quilt patches and the couples’ guests signed the squares. The squares are currently being made into a quilt that will be a family heirloom to be passed down!

For their exit, Sheldon and Kaylyn chose to honor their time at the University of Alabama. “During the fall, we love to go to Alabama football games and we have made so many memories traveling to watch the Tide play. Dixieland Delight played as we walked out with all of our friends and family cheering us on.”