“Elli and I attended high school together, but really only knew of each other from a distance. We first met officially on a mission trip in Guatemala and became friends upon returning to Auburn University. Coming from someone who never did homework, I spent more time in the library that month than ever trying to impress her. One Sunday, Elli came to church with me and I took her to dinner afterwards for our first official date. I remember being so nervous. We ended up dating for four years, and I knew for almost that entire time that I wanted to spend my life with her. Our relationship has been nonstop coffee dates and adventures – jumping out of planes included. I love to laugh with her as much as I love to laugh at her, and I look forward to the rest of our lives together.” – Tanner
How He Proposed
“Tanner went above and beyond to create the perfect proposal. After conspiring with my close friends and family, they managed to get me dressed up under the guise of an early birthday dinner and pictures. We drove to Cecil Ashburn Lookout in Huntsville because that is our frequented photoshoot spot. I somehow managed to miss both Tanner and my sister’s cars parked nearby. I also didn’t think much of my friends’ impromptu Target and Dunkin stops on the way. When I approached the bluff, there he was surrounded by flower petals and lantern with daisies in hand. I cried of course and gave the easiest yes ever! He really thought of everything and included as many of my closest friends as he could. The sunset was absolutely beautiful and I like to think God painted that one for us.” – Elli Grace
The Couple’s Story
“Our story is interesting because even though we attended the same small Christian high school, we never truly knew each other until serving on a mission trip with one another after I graduated. Our story continued through college where we intertwined friends, family and faith. Once we started planning our wedding it was only natural that we would join all of these things to make the most perfect day. Our wedding party consisted of not only cherished childhood friends, but also ones we had made together. Our family’s love and admiration for one another grew during our relationship and we all became one on our wedding day. Our officiant was our former high school Bible teacher and was thoughtfully chosen because of the positive impact he had on each of our lives. Burns Bluff had already become an integral part of our lives, and provided the perfect setting for family and friends to gather with us and celebrate our special day. With the help of many special people, we had a beautiful wedding that honored God throughout the entire process. We love our story!” – Elli & Tanner
