Wedding stories: Sammy & Blaise White

04.02.2022 

Photographs courtesy Kristin Byrum Photography

Sammy and Blaise are a couple who get sports. Blaise is a former basketball player at Birmingham Southern College, and Sammy is an Auburn University grad well-versed in in-state rivalries. So when their wedding fell on the historic UNC-Duke matchup during the NCAA Final Four, they knew they needed a TV at the reception. “I have plenty of Carolina fans on my side of the family; my husband of course, is a Duke fan though,” says Sammy, who grew up in south Charlotte. “Dancing with all your friends and family while simultaneously cheering for a rivalry game was memorable.” The couple, introduced by mutual friends and both physician assistants in Atlanta, envisioned a color scheme that was “clean and crisp.” Ironically, they had picked blue and white. Deciding on a traditional wedding party was more difficult, fearing they would leave out someone they loved. Instead, Blaise had three “best men,” and Sammy, two matrons of honor. She asked a close group of friends to wear pastels or spring florals, take photos and get ready with her before the ceremony. Following the couple’s exit from the church, Blaise had the idea for guests to gather on the steps and join them for a group picture. “That is by far one of our favorite photos,” Sammy says. “At the end of the day, this day is all about you and your spouse starting your marriage … Break what you think is the mold and make things work for you.”

The details:

Photographer | Kristin Byrum Photography

Videographer | The Family Films, Asheville

Venue | First United Methodist Church Charlotte (ceremony), Mint Museum Uptown (reception)

Planner | Mallory Gardner Feigl, I Do Zone Weddings and Events

Floral Design | Jimmy Blooms Floral Design

Dress | Martina Liana, Wedding Angels, Roswell, Ga.

Bridesmaids Dresses | Birdy Grey

Hair & Makeup | Cali Stott Artistry

Groom & Groomsmen Attire | Jos. A. Bank

Rings | Da Vinci Fine Jewelry, Atlanta

Band | The Queen’s Court

Cake | Publix

Caterer | Best Impressions Caterers

Stationery | Minted

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