Chelsey and Kevin: Romance in the Lodge

by Amy Serrago

When Chelsey and Kevin first met he was in a sailor costume in the midst of an “open water” themed pub crawl with his rugby team to celebrate the end of their season. Needless, to say she had no idea that one day he would be her husband. But after nearly four years of dating, Kevin surprised Chelsey with a romantic proposal when she arrived to visit his family in Canada. The Chicago-based Chelsey came through customs and was greeted by Kevin, holding a huge sign that read, “Welcome Back to Canada Chelsey”. She was only slightly embarrassed by the grand display, but when she took out her phone to snap a picture, Kevin flipped the sign around. On the back it read: “Chelsey, Will You Marry Me”? Chelsey’s shock turned to tears of joy as Kevin got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. Of course, she said yes and so, plans were under way for their spring wedding at the rustic, yet modern, Nelson Anderson Leadership Lodge in Nashville, Tennessee.

Chelsey was stunning in her lace trumpet-cut gown with its delicately beaded bodice and full tulle skirting. She topped off her look with a gorgeously sparkling statement necklace and a long veil for added drama. Her bridesmaids were lovely in lacy blush gowns, each with her own personal style and all of the ladies carried bouquets of roses in pale pink and white with accents of greenery. Kevin and his groomsmen were dapper in classic black tuxes, and Chelsey’s dog, Nacho sported an adorable doggie tux as he walked down the aisle as an official member of the wedding party.

At the reception, a color scheme of blush and navy with hints of rose gold and metallics combined beautifully with rustic details to enhance the lodge’s styling. Rich wood and floor to ceiling windows that showcased the trees outside were the perfect backdrop for soft springtime decor while wooden accents and delicate florals in ball jars paid homage to the woodsy setting. After dinner, Chelsey, Kevin and their guests got crazy on the dance floor to the sounds of the live band, The Music City Sound because, when you get married in Nashville, you’ve got to have a band!