When Heather and Ryan were both attending college in Nashville (Heather at Fisk University and Ryan at Vanderbilt University), they began to lay the foundation for their relationship. Their connection grew deeper before being challenged by Ryan’s move back to his hometown of Dallas. Although the relationship took a hiatus, the couple was quickly able to pick things up again years later. Still in different cities, Heather and Ryan continued to build their relationship with four years of long distance between them before Ryan proposed.
A year prior to their December wedding, Ryan invited Heather to Dallas (under false pretenses, of course). While at dinner at The Reunion Tower, Ryan swallowed his nerves and shared the details of his love for Heather. “He starts telling me how much he loves me and that he doesn’t want to be with anyone else,” Heather shares. “The next thing I know he gets up, walks around to my chair, gets on one knee and asks me to marry him.” Heather tearfully accepted his proposal.
On their wedding day, Heather’s father walked her down the aisle. Before the couple exchanged traditional vows in front of 100 guests, Mr. Pujol gave Ryan a quick lecture telling him that he better take care of Heather, just like her father always did. For Heather, this was one of the most memorable parts of the wedding.
Dressed in a couture dress and handsome tuxedo, Heather and Ryan gleefully said “I do.” The couple was then announced as Mr. and Mrs. Cuffee. Guests shared their congratulations over cocktails and appetizers before sitting down to a dinner of filet Oscar, honey balsamic chicken, honey garlic glazed salmon and vegetarian lasagna.
The Bridge Building, which overlooks downtown Nashville and the Cumberland River, was outfitted for the occasion. “I love ivory and blush paired together,” Heather says of the color scheme. “Lilies were my mother’s favorite flower, so I definitely had to incorporate those.” The small details and personal touches made this special occasion one to remember.
RESOURCES
- Venue: The Bridge Building
- Photography: Joe Hendricks
- Event planner: Elle Event Style
- Bride’s gown: Inbal Dror from Joan Pillow Bridal Salon in Atlanta, GA
- Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Monique Lhuillier from Bella Bridesmaids
- Hair & makeup: Denikka Harris from Classic Hair Studios; Shea Moore
- Groom’s & groomsmen’s formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse
- Invitations, programs & menu cards: Darby Cards
- Flowers: PS Designs
- Catering: Infinity Events & Catering
- Music: DJ Rod Youree
- Cake: Dessert Designs
- Guest accommodations: Omni Nashville Hotel and Fairfield Inn & Suites
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