Weddings: The Wedding of the Year

It’s confession time. I have always wanted to be invited to a fabulous wedding on New Year’s Eve. I can’t think of a better way to ring in the New Year than being surrounded by wedding glam, professions of love, champagne, and midnight kisses. So, when we heard about Caroline and Max’s New Year’s Eve wedding at The Tiger Hotel, we couldn’t resist inviting ourselves.

Caroline Brumfield and Max Dornan met while they were in college. They did not meet in class or at a party; they attended rival universities (Ole Miss for Caroline, Mississippi State for Max) and met on Tinder, a mobile social app. Although their allegiance to their alma maters was strong, their love for each other was stronger. So here we were, a few years later, celebrating their commitment.

The venue was amazing. We’d never been in The Tiger Hotel, so you can imagine our awe as we walked into the lobby — the hotel exudes glamour. Guests began to arrive while the orchestra filled the lobby with sweet melodies.

The couple had spent the day getting ready at the hotel, celebrating and anticipating this moment.  Caroline chose to have a first look with her father and brother before she changed her last name.

The wedding processional began and the bridesmaids lined the staircase leading up to the second floor. At the top, the groom awaited his bride to be. As we watched Caroline walk down the aisle with her father, it was evident how close these two were. The couple exchanged vows in front of the pastor who married Caroline’s parents.

The ceremony was followed by a cocktail hour with signature drinks that represented the schools the couple attended. Since most couples don’t get a chance to eat once the reception begins, Caroline and Max carved out a few minutes to spend alone in their honeymoon suite.

While the couple ate, guests made their way into the ballroom. The room was stunning, from the floral settings provided by Kent’s Floral Gallery to the lighting provided by the DJ, every detail made this the wedding of the year.

One problem for wedding crashers though: Everyone had placed seating. We waited in the back, hoping to find an unoccupied table. Thankfully, we did, and we enjoyed the company and the food. We talked with couples who had witnessed Caroline’s parents get married, and the stories they shared made the wedding that much sweeter. The couple made their rounds to each table and, although surprised, they graciously welcomed us.

The night continued with drinking and dancing. When the clock finally struck midnight, I realized this New Year’s Eve wedding was better than I could have ever imagined. We were given hats and confetti poppers. Champagne was poured and we cheered in the new year with confetti, toasts, and well-wish kisses.

Resource List:

Photography — Ashley Turner Photography, aturnerphotography.com

Venue — The Tiger Hotel, thetigerhotel.com

Floral — Kent’s Floral Gallery and Gifts, kentsfloralgallery.com

Cake — Velvet Cupcake

 DJ — Aric Bremmer

Bridal Dresses — Belle Mariée Bridal Boutique, midmobride.com

Hair and Makeup — Kila Parker and Kallie Carter

Orchestra — Marching Mizzou

Bridesmaids’ dresses — Rent the Runway, renttherunway.com

Groom and Groomsmen Attire — Men’s Wearhouse, menswearhouse.com