Real Columbus Wedding: Brittany and Matthew Chandler

July 24, 2021 | Brittany (Cox) and Matthew Chandler grew up in the same town, but went to different schools and didn’t meet until a mutual friend introduced them when Brittany was in college. “We started out as friends, both in separate relationships,” Brittany says. “Months after being single at the same time, Matt asked me on our first date in winter 2013. It was so natural and easy, and we’ve grown together ever since.” 

She describes Matt’s proposal five years later, during a trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, as “such a special, private moment—which is Matt’s specialty.” That specialty showed up on their wedding day, too, as the couple shared the vows they’d written during a private first look.  

“It’s crazy how much chaos is involved in a wedding day; I didn’t anticipate the overstimulation that comes with it all,” Brittany says. “After all the hair and makeup and photos, I finally walked onto the wooded path to meet Matt for our first look. I found myself surrounded by trees and cliffs and ferns, and I was totally isolated from everyone else. Seeing Matt in that moment was absolutely the best single moment on that day, and definitely one of the top five moments in my life. … I couldn't have imagined anything better.” 

The ceremony itself was officiated by Clark Tieman, Brittany’s best friend from their youth. Growing up, the two would often talk about their future selves. “As soon as we were old enough to understand what an officiant was, I asked Clark if he would be mine someday. He said yes,” Brittany remembers. “A few months after Matt proposed, I asked Clark again if he’d be our officiant. He responded, ‘I got my license the day after he proposed.’ ” 

Other notable members of the wedding party were the couple’s dogs, Truda and Leroy, who joined the family a year into Brittany and Matt’s relationship. “They were the cuddliest members of our bridal party, and Crockett’s Run was happy to include them as special guests on site,” Brittany says. 

She and Matt chose Crockett’s Run in part for its gorgeous backdrop. They “have prioritized nature throughout the entirety of our relationship, so it was essential that we had a venue reflective of that priority,” she notes. “Crockett’s Run is an immensely beautiful venue with stunning rock cliffs, private hiking trails, waterfalls, etc. That felt like a perfect and personal choice for us.”  

Vendors 

Ceremony and reception: Crockett’s Run 

Caterer and cake: Catering by Scott 

Florist:Rose & Berry 

Music: DJ BFunk 

Photographer: Photo 243 

Stationery: Minted.com and DIY 

Transportation: Fun Bus 

Accommodations: Crockett’s Run, Sleep Inn Logan Ohio-Hocking Hills, Holiday Inn Express Hocking Hills-Logan 

Rehearsal dinner: Crockett’s Run 

Bride’s attire: Gown and hair piece from Henri’s Bridal 

Bride’s makeup: Carly Jo Makeup 

Groom’s attire: Indochino suit, Dazi tie 

Rings: Bride’s rings from BlueNile.com, groom’s ring is a family heirloom 

Bridesmaids’ attire: Birdy Grey gowns 

Flower girl’s attire: BHLDN dress 

Groomsmen’s and ring bearer’s attire: Suits from Macy’s