The Hawkey’s wedding was more than just a celebration, it was a reflection of personal artistry, deep-rooted family ties, and intentional design. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Georgia Southern Botanic Garden, every element of the day was curated to feel like home: warm, vintage, and filled with meaning.
“We created about 90% of the decor ourselves,” shared bride Haley. “From hand-dyed napkins to thrifted, mismatched plates, we wanted the reception to feel personal and charming, like you were stepping into our story.” The couple’s commitment to crafting their day by hand was evident at every turn, from the floral-covered cake similar to Haley’s bouquet, to the clay cake topper sculpted by Caleb himself, featuring the couple and their beloved pets.
One of the most memorable details was a collaborative art installation designed by Haley. Inspired by a painting she created of their first date, guests were invited to complete a puzzle-like masterpiece during the reception. “Each person had a 3-inch canvas at their place setting. By the end of the night, they had assembled the full painting together. It was interactive and symbolic, and became a keepsake they could take home.”
The couple’s ceremony was intimate and filled with personal touches: a harpist from New Art Ensembles played as guests arrived, and the officiant was a former professor from Haley’s time at SCAD. “It felt full-circle,” she said. “One of my former students even played a harp piece during our cake cutting.”
Yet amidst all the artistic details, the day’s emotional core was family. Haley shared that it was the last time she was with her sister before she passed. “Her presence made the day even more unforgettable and sacred.” To honor their loved ones, the couple set up a table with wedding photos from both sides of their families and included sentimental heirlooms throughout. Haley carried her great-grandmother’s handkerchief and wore a necklace her mother had worn to her aunt’s wedding.
For Caleb, honoring his late mother was a quiet, moving moment during the ceremony. A seat was reserved in her memory, and during the speeches, a voice recording of her played from an old VHS tape. “Hearing her voice in that moment made her presence feel real and deeply moving,” Haley said.
The Hawkeys’ wedding was more than visually beautiful, it was a patchwork of love, memory, and legacy. Each detail, whether handcrafted or deeply felt, told a story that celebrated not just the couple, but the people and moments that shaped them.
Other Local Vendors:
Georgia Southern Botanic Garden, The Social Salon And Aesthetics, New Art Ensembles, The Painted Chef, With A Twist Bartending Service, Wedding Belles LLC, Belles, LLC, Heirloom & Emerald, Emerald
