A Hole-in-one Love Story: Will & Madelyn’s Sea Palms Island Wedding

This Southern Coastal Wedding at Sea Palms Brought Golf-Inspired Glamour to St. Simons Island

Madelyn + Will | October 5, 2024 | St. Simons Presbyterian Church & Sea Palms Golf Resort

Some love stories are simply meant to be — and for Madelyn and Will, that journey began on the high school golf team. From cheerleading on the sidelines of Will’s football games to saying “I do” on the coast of Georgia, their story has been rooted in tradition, style, and a shared love of the game.

A British-Inspired Proposal Fit for Royalty

While in London for Will’s work with the British Open Golf Tournament, Madelyn had no idea a proposal was in the plans. The morning began with a visit to Floris London, where she selected her wedding day perfume — the same perfumery used by the royal family.

Afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason followed, and later that evening, while walking to a formal dinner, Will proposed in front of the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben. It was timeless, thoughtful, and wildly romantic.

The Wedding Vision: Coastal Tradition Meets Personal Branding

As the founder of Madelyn Tenney Events, Madelyn brought her own PR-driven design philosophy to life — blending southern elegance with coastal textures and clean, classic branding. “Everything about the day needed to feel cohesive and timeless,” she shared. “We leaned into tradition while still letting our personality shine.” The ceremony took place at St. Simons Presbyterian Church, followed by a cocktail hour and reception under a clear-top tent at Sea Palms Golf Resort — a nod to the couple’s golf beginnings.

Interactive Elegance: Welcome to Club Hooper

During cocktail hour, guests entered Club Hooper — a custom experience designed to mirror a high-end golf pro shop. Madelyn’s planning team, dressed as caddies, handed out personalized golf balls and hats, while guests tried their hand at putting on the green. Custom flags and a branded crest made the experience unforgettable.

The Style: A Unique Twist on Southern Formal

Madelyn’s dress featured a modern neckline — the only area where she chose to step away from tradition. “I’ve seen so many sweetheart and strapless gowns,” she noted. “I wanted something different — something that felt like me.” The groom and groomsmen wore sharp black tuxedos and bowties, keeping the style refined and formal. The floral palette featured lush hydrangeas and marsh-inspired hues of blue and green — a soft coastal blend that tied the Georgia setting into every element of the design.

Sentimental Ceremony Moments

One of the most unforgettable moments of the day was hearing Madelyn’s grandfather’s voice over the church speakers — a recorded prayer he shared when he couldn’t attend in person. With Hurricane Helene nearly canceling the wedding three times in the days prior, the hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” brought an emotional wave of gratitude as it echoed through the sanctuary.

A Clear-Top Celebration Beneath the Stars

The reception unfolded under a clear-top tent with views of the marsh and open skies. Guests danced the night away under twinkling lights, surrounded by soft southern breezes and meaningful touches — including a custom toile pattern featuring elements of Madelyn and Will’s story, from their London proposal to their high school memories. And just when everyone thought the night couldn’t get sweeter, Madelyn’s younger brother performed “I Cross My Heart” by George Strait — a heartfelt moment that left not a single dry eye.

Timeless Advice from a Bride Who Knows

“Hire a planner and trust your vendors,” Madelyn shared. “As a planner myself, I know how much heart and experience these professionals bring. Let them guide you — and enjoy the beauty of your day.”

Vendor Dream Team

Planning & Design: @madelyntenneyevents Photo/Video: @thesnells_ Florals: @marigoflowers Stationery: @ledgewoodfinestationery Ceremony Venue: @saintsimonspres Reception Venue/Catering: @sea_palms_resort @weddingsatseapalmsresort Rentals: @bbjlatavola, @glasswingrentals, @beachview_event_rentals Band: @theparkband Hair: @hairbyemilysullivan Makeup: @mckenzieboneartistry Cake: @cakesbyanna21