Some weddings feel grand in scale—but others feel grand in meaning. Kelly and Thane’s intimate Thursday wedding, shared with just ten of their closest loved ones, was a quiet yet deeply powerful celebration rooted in intention, family, and artistry.
Set within the small chapel of Myers Park Baptist Church, the ceremony carried layers of personal history, as Thane’s parents’ decades-long connection to the church made the space feel like home. Their day unfolded with thoughtful, meaningful details—from Kelly’s striking gown paired with a green engagement ring and birdcage veil, to the rich contrast of burgundy and orange florals that brought warmth to the intimate setting.
But the heart of the day was something entirely handmade. In the weeks leading up to the wedding, Kelly designed and sewed a Chinese wedding quilt—an heirloom piece that told the story of their lives across continents. It became the backdrop of their ceremony, a symbol of love stitched together through culture, memory, and the places that shaped them.
“It wasn’t about the size of the celebration—it was about the meaning behind every single detail.”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
T: We met on Hinge while we were both finishing our PhDs—I was at NC State, she was at Duke. My first impression was that she was a baddie!
I loved that she worked in a completely different field—I’m a chemist, she is an artist—and I knew I could learn so much from her. In person, she was so easy to talk to, and our first date flowed effortlessly. Also, she had beautiful hair—so silky and shiny. I wanted to run my hands through it.
K: Thane had a reference to Avatar: The Last Airbender in his dating profile, which I also love. My first impression was that he had kind eyes. He was funny, thoughtful, and clearly loved his family. I left the first date knowing I wanted to see him again.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
K: Thane took the lead on selecting our ceremony music. He first heard The Book of Love by Peter Gabriel in an episode of South Park.
We couldn’t decide on a recessional song for the longest time, but wanted something groovy and joyful. With just days left, we chose Never Gonna Give You Up by Rick Astley—not just for the memes, but because now whenever we hear it, it reminds us of one of the happiest days of our lives.
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
The ceremony itself was a reflection of family legacy, held at Thane’s parents’ church where they have been deeply involved for decades—and officiated by his father.
Kelly’s Chinese wedding quilt became the most meaningful detail of the day. Each block represented a place that shaped their story: Taiwan, California, and North Carolina. The design also incorporated the traditional “double happiness” character, often seen in Chinese wedding celebrations.
In a beautiful continuation of that story, Kelly’s sister-in-law transformed the quilt design into custom cookies, which became their wedding favors—turning a handmade heirloom into something guests could take home and experience.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
T: Kelly taught me that I’m allowed to have a preference. I tend to be a people pleaser, but being with her has helped me feel more authentic and open, even when it’s uncomfortable.
K: Thane has taught me the importance of rest. I tend to push myself constantly, but he reminds me that recovery is just as important as effort. Being with him has made me a more compassionate and balanced person.
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
T: After deciding to get married in Charlotte, we took a weekend trip there together. It felt like a mini wedding—walking through the church, imagining the ceremony, even playing our song out loud.
Meeting with their florist was another highlight, as they were guided through the creative process with care and intention. What stood out most, though, was the deep sense of community—working with people who had known Thane’s family for years made the entire experience feel incredibly supported and personal.
Photography: Amanda Somerville Photography / @amandasomervillephoto
Venue: Myers Park Baptist Church / @mpbaptist
Florals: Flowers Plus / @flowerspluscharlotte
Bride Dress: Borgo De Nor / @borgodenor
Bride Shoes: Valentino / @valentino
Bride Headpiece: Jennifer Behr / @jenniferbehr
Rings: Traditional Jewelers
Groom Suit: Hugo Boss / @hugoboss
Groom Tie: Tailor Fukuoka / @tailorfukuoka
Cookies: Chucktown Cookie Co. / @chucktown.cookie.co
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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