On November 22nd, Emil and Halie will gather before a few friends and loved ones to commit their lives to one another in marriage. While our wishes have certainly looked different this past year, we’re thrilled to be able to bless this sweet young couple with a small, intimate celebration of their love.

Emil and Halie’s love story began just over two and a half years ago when they first saw each other across the room at their local cancer hospital. Emil has been struggling with sickle cell anemia since birth and was at the hospital to receive treatment. Halie was experiencing some health issues of her own and was there to meet with a doctor. While Emil had planned to introduce himself to her after his appointment, he was disappointed to discover that she had already left. As fate would have it, the two matched on a dating app that very night!

Soon after, the couple went on their first date and immediately fell for each other. Emil proposed just six months later and the rest is history. While Emil’s illness has certainly been challenging to endure, it has strengthened the couple’s relationship.

Sadly, sickle cell is an uncurable disease and one that causes tremendous pain, fatigue, frequent hospitalizations, routine blood infusions and often, surgery. In Emil’s case, the disease has advanced considerably over the years, causing complications that will require a him to have a hip and shoulder replacement. Despite putting on a brave face and never complaining, Emil fights constant exhaustion and pain and has spent several weeks in the hospital already this year.

We were incredibly touched by Emil and Halie’s journey and are in awe of the ways in which they have cared for each other and persevered through Emil’s illness. We’re thrilled to grant them this wish for a wedding and hope that their story serves as a beacon of hope for others.

We’ve teamed up with our new friends Neillie Butler and Elizabeth Pruitt, of Marie Ami Events, and are in awe of the incredible work they have put into making this wish so special.

Thank you all in advance for your generosity and kindness – especially right now.

Three cheers for this team:

Planner: Marie Ami Events

Venue: Swan Lake Stables

Caterer: Happy Catering Company

Love Story Photo Shoot: Rachel and Noah Ray

Photography: Davy Whitener Photography

Videography: Matthew Baxter

Florist: Marigold Designs

Rentals: Event Rentals Unlimited

Furniture Rental: Prop House

Linens: Nuage Designs