Real {Atlanta} Wedding: Danielle + Dwight

Want to know what it feels like to have a “royal wedding”? Infuse the mother of all royal colors, purple, into the wedding details. From purple shoes to purple flowers and decor, Danielle Haywood and Dwight McGhee didn’t miss a bit. We love it! Each detail was expertly captured by Jaxon Photography.

The couple first met in college. They both attended Florida A&M University, and took two classes together. According to Danielle, “We didn’t talk much in class but there was definitely some chemistry there!” Fast forward a few years, and it was time to make it truly official. Dwight proposed!

On the proposal…

“The date was September 26, 2009.  Dwight knew I wanted all of my family around so he planned to propose at dinner with them present.  He chose McCormick and Schmick’s, an upscale restaurant in Atlanta. He involved my best friend in tricking me into getting there.  When I entered the room where everyone was gathered, he was standing there surrounded by our closest family and friends with a pretty little box in his hands!” –Danielle

On the inspiration behind the theme for the wedding and reception….

“For the ceremony, I wanted a traditional church setting.  For my reception, I relied on my wedding planner (Tia R. Ervin of Milestone Occasions) to help me create a theme.  I fell completely in love with her modern twist on Alice in Wonderland, but we were limited in our ability to implement in our venue due to time.  So instead, she created a concept that gave the illusion of guests having a fine dining experience outside at sunset.” -Danielle

The amazing Tia R. Ervin of Milestone Occasions was a wonderful resource for Danielle, helping her find almost all the vendors she used for her wedding. That’s amazing client service. Talk about the royal treatment!

“[I found them] through my wedding planner.  I hired her first as a full service planning resource.  She recommended the venue, the floral designer, she selected the linens, the lighting and drape vendors, limo company, and helped choose the menu.  The only vendors I selected on my own through recommendations from friends were the photographer and the DJ.” -Danielle

On what aspect of the wedding mattered most to them individually…

“We both wanted everyone (friends and family) that we care about present to help us celebrate, so we had a large guest list of close to 300.  Dwight wanted great food and entertainment.  I wanted the décor to be stunning.” -Danielle

Wedding planning can be truly hectic, but thankfully, Danielle and Dwight were on the same page about almost everything. So, there wasn’t much to disagree over.

Advice for other engaged couples and brides-to-be…

“Hire a professional wedding planner before you do anything to help you save time and money.  Do not assume you aren’t able to afford one or decide that you can do it all yourself, because there is no way you can anticipate everything that comes up.  My planner made sure our ideas and dreams for the wedding were realistic and attainable, and her guidance throughout the process was priceless.” -Danielle

We wish Danielle and Dwight the very best.  As purple symbolizes both royalty and wisdom, may their marriage be royally blessed and full of wisdom.  Make sure you head over to Jaxon Photography’s website to view more gorgeous images.

VENDORS

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