Clay and Alison have quite the story. It all started with a mutual friend that they both happened to be visiting one weekend. A chance meeting, an exchange of phone numbers. And here’s where things got complicated. Clay went back to his home in Alabama and Alison back to Virginia. Separated by literal states. And after awhile, Clay decided he wanted to know more about this Virginia girl, so he called her. Out of the blue. Who does that anymore?! But he did. And then he flew from Alabama to spend a weekend with her to get to know her better, and the rest is history. Clay embodied beautiful pursuit in these moments. And in the coming year they would both know pursuit and intentionality well as they carried out their relationship, separated by distance.

Around Christmas time this year, Alison strolled downtown Roanoke with her family, counting down to picking up her man at the airport…when out he jumped, only to get on one knee and ask her the most important question. Will you? And of course, she said yes. A goodbye to the goodbyes and a promise to be intentional forever. That was something she could promise.

Clay and Alison embody sweet Southern charm and hospitality. They are easy to just breathe around, seeming more complete in each other’s arms. I didn’t hear one complaint as we strolled around Roanoke in the freezing cold. Just laughter and big smiles and lots of excited chatter. I am ecstatic for their August wedding in good ol’ Southwest Virginia and so thankful to be a part of their story.

Love this. Clay is so sweet to her.

Alison. You. Are. Gorgeous.

I love how much they laugh!

A little school spirit from the two diehard fans.