How did you meet?

We met online through a dating site called Bumble. After the first date, we were inseparable.

What is your favorite thing about each other? 

Katie’s favorite thing about Ray is his sense of humor and fun-loving, positive energy.

Ray’s favorite thing about Katie is her ambition and contagious smile.

How did the proposal go? Give us all the sweet details!

Ray proposed to me during a huge fundraiser during the Kentucky Derby. We were going to be traveling the next weekend on vacation, where I was sure he was going to propose. We showed up to the event all decked out in derby attire. We were taking group photos in a big photo booth area, so the atmosphere was very chaotic and fun. All the sudden, everyone moved away, and he got on one knee. The photo booth camera got shots of the whole moment. I said “No” three times until I realized what was going on. Ray’s daughter then came out holding a sign that said, “AND ME TOO?!”. It was an unforgettable moment.

Where was your ceremony held and why did you pick this site?

We love to have fun! It was important to us to have our wedding in the middle of the French quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. For our venue, we picked the Chateau LeMoyne for its quaint, eclectic style and energetic vibe. It has a beautiful, romantic courtyard in the back with a fountain. It just fit us and felt right! We also loved that we could have the ceremony and reception at the same location.

What unique or special things did you do at the reception? 

Ray and Katie had a live painter that caught inspiring moments throughout the whole night. They get to remember their special night every time they look at the stunning, oil painting hanging in their living room.

Pick one moment in the day that was your favorite thing?

During the second, the whole wedding crew crossing over Bourbon St. on the Saturday night before the 2019 Saint’s Championship game was EPIC! The energy we felt from our wedding guests and fellow Saint’s fans is beyond describable with words.

Did it really go by as quickly as everyone says?

I definitely understand why people say that it goes by so fast, but to me it was almost like a slow, out of body experience. Everything was so amazing, it was almost like time stopped for a while. You must take time throughout the whole process to stop and just take it in with your spouse!

Who was your baker, what was the flavor of your cake? Was it delicious?!

Frosted Fantasies by Nikki. We had three layers, wedding cake, cookies and cream, and red velvet. Everyone raved about the different flavored layers. We just couldn’t pick, so we did a little of each favorite. Nikki is amazing to work with. She nailed everything perfectly.

Did you do a first look? If so how did you feel about it? If not, do you wish you had?

No, we did not. We don’t regret it one bit!

Did you have a coordinator or did you plan everything yourself? 

We planned everything ourselves. 

If you didn’t have a coordinator any advice for brides planning their own wedding?

Be prepared. Be organized. Don’t rush any decisions. Do what feels right!

What was your first dance song? 

Perfect by Ed Sheeran.  

Why this song?

Ray’s daughter wanted to pick the song out, so we let her.

Band or DJ? Did they rock it?

Band all the way! We love live music. One of our groomsmen and his band, Bread Pud’n, played at our wedding.

We want to hear YOUR advice for future brides.

Let go and have fun!!! Don’t rush the planning AND don’t take your stress or frustration out on your groom/bride.

Anything else you want to say?-- -- 

Be prepared to let go of control. Oddly, it won’t be perfect, but it will be perfect!