Some love stories are extra special—and Michelle and Ted’s is one of those. Both had experienced deep loss, and watching them find each other (and say “I do”) surrounded by family, faith, and the people who love them most… it was a joy to witness from start to finish.
A Ceremony Filled with Meaning
Their day began with a beautiful Catholic Nuptial Mass at St. Rita’s Church, led by Fr. Josh Burch and Fr. Bill Gearheard. The music during the ceremony was incredibly personal—played and sung by the groom’s family—which added such a heartfelt touch. You could feel the love in that room.
Thoughtful Details & Personal Touches
Michelle and Ted chose royal blue as their main color, softened with blush pink florals by Lauren Tassin Designs. Everything felt timeless and elegant with just the right amount of warmth. One of our favorite details? The cake topper, handcrafted with vintage brooches by the bride’s mother—a sentimental piece that perfectly captured Michelle’s heart and style.
A Joyful Celebration
After the ceremony, guests gathered at St. Rita’s reception hall, where DJ Shan kept the dance floor full and Simply Southern Catering served up a comforting and delicious spread. The reception space was truly a labor of love. Michelle and Ted come from big families, and so many hands came together to transform the hall into something magical—complete with twinkle lights, blue and gold accents, and a whole lot of love.
Quiet Coordination Behind the Scenes
Of course, no wedding day is complete without a few little surprises—like a tiny stain on the dress (Tide wipe and white chalk to the rescue!), boutonniere pin fixes, a little fashion tape… and several other “just in case” moments. That’s where a our emergency kit came in—staying ahead of the curve so that the couple and their families can soak up the joy, not the stress.
Kind Words from the Bride
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Hanna with Gatherings by HB and the incredible job she did coordinating our wedding! She handled all the details with such professionalism and care that it made the day seamless and stress-free. From the timeline to the decor to making sure everyone was where they needed to be, she was on top of everything and always with a smile.
Her passion for what she does truly shines through, and I feel so lucky to have had someone so talented and dedicated by my side. Our wedding day was everything we dreamed of and more, and a huge part of that was thanks to Gatherings by HB. If you are looking for someone who will treat your big day like it’s her own, look no further. She’s simply the best!!!!”
– Michelle, Bride
From the Maid of Honor
“Hanna is hands-down the best wedding planner we could’ve asked for! I was a bridesmaid in my mom’s wedding, and everything went so smoothly because of her. Every single detail was thought through and perfectly executed—from the timeline and décor to keeping everyone calm and on schedule.
Hanna made what could’ve been a stressful day feel completely effortless. My mom got to truly enjoy her wedding without any worries, which meant the world to all of us. If you’re looking for someone who’s organized, thoughtful, and genuinely passionate about what she does—Hanna is your girl. She’s amazing!”
– Ashley, Maid of Honor & Daughter of the Bride
A Photographer’s Perspective
“Giving a huge shoutout to this amazing wedding coordinator that I had the pleasure of working with! She was so attentive, organized, and calm throughout the whole day! She even was so attentive to me as the photographer. She is just so so sweet! It truly makes a difference when there’s someone behind the scenes making sure every little detail is handled with care. Grateful to have crossed paths and excited for more weddings together!”
– Veronica VanGessel, Photographer
Vendor Team Shoutout
It was a joy to coordinate alongside such a talented vendor team:
- Photography: Veronica VanGessel Photography
- DJ: Shannon Fuselier (DJ Shan)
- Catering: Simply Southern Catering and Cafe – Katy
- Florals: Lauren Tassin Designs
- Bridal Hair: Sara Manuel
- Makeup: Makeup By Kasey Coco
Final Thoughts
It was an absolute honor to be part of Michelle and Ted’s special day—to witness them find love again and truly gleam with joy. Their wedding was filled with heart, hope, and so much genuine happiness. Seeing everything come together so beautifully, surrounded by the people who love them most, was nothing short of unforgettable.
Planning a Wedding in Central Louisiana?
Check out our Central Louisiana Wedding Planning & Vendor Guide — a 65+ page digital resource filled with checklists, expert tips, and trusted vendors serving Alexandria and surrounding areas.
- Purchase the Guide – use coupon code M7DG3RJVQ2 for 25% off
Looking for a Wedding Coordinator?
Let Gatherings by HB handle the details so you can relax and enjoy your day. Every package includes Hanna and an assistant, timeline creation, vendor coordination, and our fully stocked emergency kit.
