Deborah is an exceptionally special person to Eileen and me. Frankly, that’s probably how everyone she knows would describe her. Few people are as patient, energetic, ambitious, gentle, and funny (the list goes on) as she. We first met Deborah when she and her daughter Ashley visited us for a wedding consultation. At the time, it was for Ashley’s wedding, not Deborah’s. After some chatting we soon realized we attended the same church, and Eileen and I had already heard a lot about Deborah and her late husband, who left a truly impressive legacy of faithful service and love for Jesus. Since then, we’ve treasured every moment spent with this family — assisting with benefits for Bethel Haven, an amazing counseling ministry Deborah founded some years ago; rec league baseball games with Ashley’s husband, Jonathan; and just rubbing shoulders at the church.

So when Deborah wrote to tell us she had met some character named Rocky, it was important that he “check out” before we could approve of their marriage. First of all, we were adamant he must not be a boxer or a squirrel. Those just aren’t Deborah’s type. Second, he had to be a Georgia bulldog fan. On this count, he failed miserably. (He’s a South Carolina Gamecock, which itself already sounds like an insult. And I suppose it is. :P) However, since he had at least lived in Athens previously, we let him slide. In every other regard, he was clearly a standout candidate for Deborah — equally energetic and funny (although a decidedly goofier brand of humor), so fiercely loyal to his faith and family, and so clearly in love with Deborah. They’re an awesome team, and we can’t wait to see how the Lord continues to use them together. Congrats, Deborah and Rocky!

Deborah, how would you describe Rocky?
“He makes me laugh a lot. I am having so much fun learning the meaning of all of his “SC-isms.” He is brave, patriotic and served in the military for 28 years and retired as a lieutenant colonel from the SC National Guard. He is  generous, respectful, strong, hard working, has handsome blue eyes and is devoted to his family and loves the Lord. His prayer life amazes me.”

Rocky, how would you sum up Deborah in three words?
“Godly, Gentle, Caring.”

So, what do you hope your friends and family remember about your wedding?
“That The Lord was welcomed, honored, and He showed up! That it was sweet, and our guests had a wonderful time. That it is intimate for us, our family and friends, simple, elegant, fun and relaxed.”

View and order images from Deborah and Rocky’s complete photo gallery here.