Cortnie + Jay's Narrow Gate Wedding

Narrow Gate Foundation is a non-profit that is near and dear to my heart. My husband and many of our friends have graduated from this program that is geared at helping young men find their purpose. Through Christian discipleship, challenging adventures, and biblical training, they equip these young men for life.

When I was called and asked to coordinate a wedding on the Narrow Gate property for a graduate, I immediately said yes. And I'm so glad I did! I was lucky enough to form a friendship not just my lovely bride Cortnie, but also her son, her mom, the groom's mom... well basically the whole family. They were the perfect reminder of why I love to plan weddings! To help take away any stress and to see the happy outcome of not just the commitment of two people in love, but also the coming together of two families.

Father/son love is the best! Mr. Hardin has been a wonderful role model to prep Jay for his new commitment as husband to Cortnie and dad to (adorable) Jayden.

I asked Cortnie what her favorite part of the day was:

Pastor Steve telling Jay that he could kiss his bride :)
Jay said "Thank God!" and I put my hands around his neck.

Cortnie has great advice for other brides!

Try to stay calm, not everything is going to go as planned but it will be ok :) No one else is going to notice the mishaps and in the moment, they really aren't that big of a deal. Also, get help from anyone and everyone who is wiling. You don't have to do EVERYTHING by yourself. That really helped me a lot.

This sign sits at the entrance of the barn and holds the names of all the graduates since it started 10 years ago. If you look closely at the last line, just to the left of the flowers, you'll see my husband's name!
Jay came to Narrow Gate a few years later. Not everyone is close and none of the relationships are perfect, which fits exactly with the resounding description of what Narrow Gate is -- it's a family.

Guest Count: 85
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Narrow Gate Foundation
Photographer: Audrey Curran Photography
Planner: Megan Scurlock, Locklane Weddings & Events
Hair & Makeup: Babe Beauty Bar
Officiant: Pastor Steve Berger, Grace Chapel
Catering: Family
Dress: She wore her mother's dress!
Florals: DIY by Family and Mother of the Bride's Friend, Bonnie

Wedding Dresses Can Be Beautiful Ready-to-Wear and Affordable

Over July 4th weekend, we celebrated the elopement of a dear family friend with a reception on the lake. Celebrating their marriage made us think of other gals eloping. Where could you get a dress quickly? (since most elopements aren't planned 6-8 months in advance - the average time to get a wedding dress) And what about a budget bride - what are her options?

So we decided to answer our own question! Check out a selection of ready-to-wear dresses below. They're budget friendly, but not pre-owned!

Watters "Carina" $913 / Nicole Miller "Dakota" - Silk Faille Strapless Gown $1035 (most expensive here!)

Ann Taylor, Goddess V-Neck $550 / Teri Jon, Metallic Lace Top Gown $580

Badgley Mischka, Cap Sleeve Gown $244.50 (sale!) / Badgley Mischka, Satin Strapless $695

Adrianna Papell - Spaghetti Strap, Beaded Blouson Gown $299 / Aidan Mattox, Sequin Tulle $450

Adrianna Papell - Pleat Bodice, Rosette Gown $238 / Erin Fetherston "Monique" - Silk Metallic Gown $550

Theia "Don O'Neill" $418 (currently sold out) / Theia, Beaded-Inset Strapless Mermaid $597.50

 Nicole Miller "Lauren" - Stretch Linen $290 / Kay Unger New York - Lace Dress $136

Would you consider a ready-to-wear dress? Which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!