Erica Nelson & Shane Spray: A Shelby County Wedding

October 17, 2020

Photos by Danielle Hickman Photography

How We Met: Shane and I (Erica) met at Salt Grass Steakhouse on 280. I was excited when Birmingham opened one because Louisiana has them all over and it reminded me of home. We met in the bar area and had great conversation!

The Proposal: He told me that we were driving back to his hometown to pick up his Green Egg meat smoker at his brother’s house so that we could grill out for the football game the next day. When we got to his hometown, he showed me the house he grew up in and the schools he attended. As we were leaving, he asked if we could stop at the graveyard where his mom and dad were buried so that he could check on their site and leave flowers. He proposed there because he wanted his mom to see him so happy. No one imagines getting engaged in a graveyard, but it was the most romantic and special moment. His parents were so important to him and still are!

The Wedding Dress: The wedding dress I chose is an Essence of Australia mermaid lace gown from Bella’s Bridal in Hoover.

Favorite Moment: After the first look, my bridesmaids and his groomsmen did a photo shoot, and we all got to cut loose before the ceremony. It was perfect, and I couldn’t wait to walk down the aisle afterwards.

Favorite Details: My bridesmaids walked down to “Send Me on My Way,” and it was so moving. I cried. I imagined them sending me on my way from each parts of their life I influenced.