Bride Geornay, a California resident who grew up in Atlanta, wanted to share her Southern roots with her West Coast friends and family, while also making travel easier for her groom Tyler’s Chicago crew. With a guest list spanning ten states and even Amsterdam, the couple knew they needed a venue that could bring the “wow” factor. Enter The St. Regis Atlanta. Here’s the scoop on how this couple pulled off a wedding weekend that was both elegant and unforgettable.

“I’ve always wanted to show all of my friends the city where I was raised,” Geornay shared. “Over 85% of our guests were traveling, and we had people come in from all over, including California, Illinois, Texas, New York, and even Amsterdam!”

Choosing the St. Regis Atlanta as their venue was a natural decision for Geornay. “I knew I wanted luxury, elegance, and an outdoor ceremony with an indoor reception,” she explained. “The St. Regis’ dramatic décor and multiple event spaces was a no-brainer!”

The wedding seamlessly blended local traditions with personal touches, particularly through the Southern-inspired menu. “Our entrees included an elevated take on jumbo shrimp and grits and buttermilk fried chicken,” Geornay shared. “We also created city skyline-themed dessert stations as a nod to where we are from.”

Logistics for their guests were carefully handled to ensure a smooth experience. “Atlanta airport is a great hub,” Geornay noted. “We had three room blocks in Buckhead, ensuring everyone was conveniently accommodated.”

Budgeting for a destination wedding requires foresight, as Geornay pointed out. “Prepare for unexpected costs and prioritize what matters most to you,” she advised. “Be open with your planner about your vision to get an accurate estimate.”

Geornay and Tyler infused their personal style into every detail at their Atlanta, from a black-tie dress code to silver accents throughout the décor. “Tyler loves cigars, so we created a Cigar Bar on the terrace,” Geornay shared. “It had an antique bar and moody elements to match.”

Their vendor selection process was meticulous yet manageable, thanks to local expertise and national travel experience. “Brian Worley was hands-on and used visuals over Zoom,” Geornay explained. “Our photographer, Charla Storey, and videographer, Kevin Hursh, ensured every moment was captured flawlessly.”

Reflecting on the day, Geornay emphasized the importance of guest mingling. “We mixed our family and friends on the seating chart to encourage interaction,” she said. “Our band played a variety of genres, ensuring everyone danced the night away.”

As with any event, there were lessons learned. Geornay advised future couples to manage the guest list early and offer varied accommodation options. “Invest in the guest experience,” she urged, “especially since people are traveling.”

Geornay and Tyler’s wedding was a testament to love, meticulous planning, and the celebration of diverse backgrounds coming together in one of Atlanta’s most luxurious settings. Theirs was not just a wedding but a gathering of hearts from across the country, united in joy and unforgettable memories.

Vendors: Venue: The St. Regis Atlanta; Planning & Design: Drake Social Events; Photographer: Charla Storey; Videographer: Kevin Hursh; Floral Design: Brian Worley Productions; Hair & Makeup: Scoobie West; Cake: Bakers Man Inc.; Save The Dates & Invitations: Texture and Tequila; Day of Stationery: Hi Note Studio; Cigar Roller: Honor Cigars; Entertainment: Jordan Khan Orchestra; Rentals: Mayker Events; Wedding Gown: Anne Barge