The Harpeth Franklin Downtown

Rehearsal Dinner

The Coffee House at Second and Bridge

Welcome Toast

Wedding Day

First Presbyterian Church Nashville

Ceremony

Ravenswood Mansion

Cocktail Hour

Dinner and Dancing

Fall

Our Wedding

Our Story

Our story began in Charleston, South Carolina, in May of 2019 at an out-of-town formal for Michael’s fraternity. Though we each attended the event with different dates, we found ourselves in a group of mutual friends exploring the city for the weekend. On the first night in town, we discovered that we were both from Nashville and immediately hit it off.

Once we were back on campus, we kept “bumping” into each other studying outside the Student Union with friends, and it didn’t take long for everyone to notice the spark between us. After a few weeks of flirtatious texts, group hangouts, and a little nudge from a friend, we went on our first date to Caroline’s favorite spot—Chuys!

By May, we were officially dating after a memorable night at the Stardust Drive-In movie theater. From that moment on, you could say our match was truly “written in the stars.”

That summer, we navigated the challenge of a long-distance relationship for the first time when Michael had an internship in Cincinnati. Little did we know how much long-distance would come to define our relationship. In hindsight, we’re grateful that our journey began with this challenge, as it taught us how to balance our independence with a deep appreciation for each other.

Over the next few years, we made the most of our time together, enjoying college life to the fullest—from football games to date parties—and sticking together through the ups and downs of the pandemic.

After Michael graduated in 2021, he moved to Arkansas, marking the start of our four-year stretch of long distance. While we certainly wished we could have been in the same place, our experience from that first summer of distance helped us navigate the years that followed. Caroline moved from Knoxville to Connecticut and then traveled all over the country with her role at Pi Beta Phi, while Michael made the most of his time in Arkansas. Though we were physically apart, we both understood that if we were meant to be together, there would be plenty of time ahead to share our lives. In the meantime, we embraced every opportunity that came our way, trusting that the Lord had a plan.

In 2024, we decided we couldn’t wait any longer to take the next step in our journey together. Michael began planning the perfect proposal, determined to surprise Caroline. On May 25th, our five-year anniversary, Michael proposed at Ravenswood Mansion’s historic barn—a beautiful park nestled between our childhood homes. Both of our families played a role in setting up the surprise, with the biggest challenge being getting Caroline to the park without spoiling the secret. Caroline’s brother, Charlie, graciously agreed to share his high school graduation day with the proposal, pretending to forget a gift for a “friend’s graduation party” at the park.

Though Caroline was late to meet Michael to go shopping at the mall, she agreed to drop off the gift on her way. Having just woken up from a nap, she had thrown on athletic shorts, but after some gentle persuasion from her mom to change for more family graduation photos—and a text from Michael saying he was still wearing his outfit from the morning’s ceremony—she decided to put back on the dress from earlier. When she pulled into the park and saw Michael standing there alone (but no party in sight), she quickly realized what was happening. It was the perfect surprise!

That evening, we celebrated with our families, reliving every detail of the secret planning that had gone into the proposal. We ended the night with a surprise proposal party, surrounded by our closest family and friends. As we enter this exciting new season, we’re filled with gratitude and joy to have our loved ones by our side. We can’t wait to celebrate with each of you as we begin this incredible journey together.

Photos

Wedding Party

Madeline Peterson

Matthew Conlan

Emily Condra

Cameron Bergert

Hannah Seegmiller

Jacob Fowler

Emily Mock

Christopher Fowler

Allison Strueder

Nicholas Hadley

Katie McCoy

Kellen Glasscock

Kelsie Fadool

Carter Ayers

Charlie Ayers

 ---------------------------

Garret Bronn

Zack McCoy

Nicholas Rodriguez

Caleb Weeden

Colby Weeden

Frequently Asked Questions

We are truly so grateful for your love and support during this sweet season in our lives. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Q + A

Accommodations

We are so excited to have you join us from out of town! Here are some recommendations for places to stay where we have secured room blocks for your weekend in Nashville. We cannot wait to celebrate with you!

The Harpeth Hotel is located in the charming historic Downtown Franklin. To book with the group rate, be sure to use code 902 or visit <a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/rooms/?ctyhocn=BNASQQQ&amp;arrivalDate=2025-11-14&amp;departureDate=2025-11-16&amp;groupCode=902&amp;room1NumAdults=1&amp;cid=OM%2CWW%2CHILTONLINK%2CEN%2CDirectLink" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

The Harpeth Franklin Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

The Hyatt House is located in the Cool Springs area of Franklin, walking distance from the McEwen Northside restaurants and bars. To book with the group rate, be sure to use code G-ABWW or visit <a href="https://www.hyatt.com/shop/rooms/bnaxf?checkinDate=2025-11-13&amp;checkoutDate=2025-11-16&amp;rooms=1&amp;adults=1&amp;kids=0&amp;corp_id=G-ABWW&amp;brands[]=house&amp;location=Hyatt%20House%20Nashville%20%2F%20Franklin%20-%20Cool%20Springs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> by October 13th.

Hyatt House Nashville / Franklin - Cool Springs

The Springhill Suites is located in the Cool Springs area of Franklin, walking distance from the McEwen Northside restaurants and bars.&nbsp;To book with the group rate, be sure to use group code ABUABUK or visit <a href="https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1736184716781&amp;key=GRP&amp;guestreslink2=true&amp;app=resvlink" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> by October 30th.

SpringHill Suites Franklin Cool Springs

We’re so excited to welcome you to Nashville and Franklin! We hope you’ll take some time to enjoy the area while you’re here. We’ve gathered a few of our favorite spots—some right near the hotels and some worth the short drive into Nashville proper.

Cool Springs (Near the Hyatt & SpringHill Suites)

<a href="http:" />Neighbors Bar & Grill</a> – Laid-back and casual, perfect for a quick bite or drink nearby. <a href="https:" />Condado Tacos</a> – Caroline’s go-to order is the Dirty Queso - don’t miss it! <a href="https:" />Blue Sushi Sake Grill</a> – Known for fresh rolls and small plates; order the shishito peppers and don’t miss their fabulous happy hour (11:00 AM–6:30 PM Mon–Sat, all day Sunday). <a href="http:" />Vintage Vine 100 (The Wine Bar)</a> – A wine bar with a rooftop and cozy firepits, ideal for an evening drink. <a href="http:" />Blue Coast Burrito </a>- Casual counter-service Mexican food; home to Michael's favorite burrito in town just across the street from his high school. The Burnsides grab this for lunch at least once every time he's in town! <a href="http:" />Jonathan's Grille</a> - Delicious sports bar with a large menu and many TVs to watch the big game. This is a staple for the Ayers family; if they invite you to dinner, odds are they will suggest Jonathan’s!

Downtown Franklin (Near the Harpeth Hotel)

<a href="https://jjswinebar.squarespace.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">JJ’s Wine Bar </a>– Wine on tap in a charming house with plenty of cozy corners to relax.<a href="http://www.puckettsrestaurant.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Puckett’s Restaurant</a> – Southern comfort food in the heart of downtown; Michael swears by the meatloaf.<a href="http://www.a18club.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Amendment XVIII Cocktail Club</a> – A speakeasy-style bar and one of our favorite date night spots. Entrance is in the alley—use Mellow Mushroom’s rear entrance and look for the Frankenstein switch.<a href="https://downtownfranklintn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Downtown Franklin Shopping </a>– Explore boutiques, antiques, and local gems along Main Street for a perfect afternoon stroll.

The Franklin Factory

A historic industrial space turned community hub, filled with shops, dining, and music. Some of our favorites here are:<a href="http://hattieb.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hattie B’s Hot Chicken </a>– If you want to try the Nashville staple without heading into the city.<a href="http://thewhitealligator.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The White Alligator</a> – A fun cajun spot with the best po'boys and beignets in town.<a href="https://www.saffirerestaurant.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Saffire</a> – A local favorite for Southern-inspired dining in a slightly upscale setting.<a href="https://mojostacos.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mojo’s Tacos</a> – Fresh, flavorful tacos served counter service

Nashville

<a href="https:" />Dicey’s Pizza & Tavern</a> – One of Caroline and Michael's favorite spots for fun, casual pizza. You must try the Peppy Boy Pizza! <a href="https:" />Sixty Vines</a> – Wine on tap and shareable plates in a lively atmosphere right on Broadway <a href="https:" />The Pharmacy</a> – Old-school burgers and house-made sodas in East Nashville. <a href="http:" />The Southern Steak & Oyster</a> – A downtown staple for brunch, lunch, or dinner. <a href="http:" />Pelato</a> – Classic Italian with a modern Nashville twist, perfect for a date night or group dinner.

Christmas Village

This annual event is not only the longest running philanthropic event in Nashville, but is very near and dear to Caroline and her mother, as it is fully planned and executed by the Pi Beta Phi Nashville Alumnae Club! Yvonne has served on the board for years and it’s our favorite way to kick off the holiday season and just happens to be taking place on our wedding weekend! Stop by to get some Christmas shopping done.   Tickets can be purchased <a href="https:" />here</a>

Things to Do & Where to Eat

Wedding Gifts

We feel incredibly blessed by the wonderful people who have shaped us and shown us the importance of community! You’ve taught us the value of creating a home filled with laughter, love, and celebration, and we’re thrilled to carry that forward into our new life together! As we start this chapter, we’ve chosen a few items to help us create a space that fosters community. Caroline looks forward to starting her collection of serveware &amp; china and trying new recipes to create memorable moments around our table; Michael can’t wait to master the grill, make homemade pasta, and bring at-home hibachi nights to life! Our hope is for a home where relationships grow, and life’s big and small moments are celebrated with those who matter most. We can’t wait to share these memories with you all!

Wedding Registry

The Bride and Groom are registered at the following locations:

Corzine and Co.

Registry items may be shopped in person at their Green Hills location or <a href="http://corzine.infomedia.net/registry.asp?action=view&amp;id=13705" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">online</a>. This is where guests will find the couple's china and entertaining pieces.

Williams Sonoma & Pottery Barn

Registry items may be shopped in person or <a href="https://www.williams-sonoma.com/registry/sq2ck9wvlj/registry-list.html?cm_type=lnav" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">online</a>. This is where guests will find the majority of the couple's kitchen appliances and accessories, as well as some home decor.

The Knot

Registry items may be shopped <a href="https://www.theknot.com/caandmb2025/registry" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">online</a>. This is where guests will find items for their new home and a variety of items not available at the other providers.

Registry Information

Please let us know if you can join us by October 15th

<a href="https://withjoy.com/caroline-and-michael-nov-25/rsvp" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Click here to RSVP</a>

Please provide your contact information in your response in order to receive important updates and reminders

Caroline & Michael

Caroline & Michael

Photos