Samantha Marks & Ory Tasman

Married

Aug 23, 2025
Rising Fawn , Georgia

Photo Credit

The Snells

Style Guide

Color Palette

Style

Formal

Season

Summer

The Proposal

Ory took Samantha on a tour of their town doing all of their “favorite things.” It started with bagels at the couple’s favorite bagel shop, then driving all the way across town to their favorite coffee shop. The day included pedicures, margaritas, massages, naps, shopping sprees, and more. Complete with a dinner date at the restaurant where Ory and Samantha had their first date — Ory even reserved the same table! After that, the couple got into an Uber to an unknown location where Ory’s brother and sister in-law had set up the most beautiful proposal arrangement with dozens of flowers, candles, and champagne. Ory got down on one knee, making it “the best day ever,” to quote Samantha.

In Preparation

The wedding preparation was full of bliss for the couple. They had so much fun picking out flowers, songs, napkins, tablecloths, all of it. Ory was very involved and wanted to be on every single wedding phone call. Samantha had a vision and it was executed to perfection. The couple’s vendors made communication and planning so seamless, leaving the couple extremely thankful. The vision came to life perfectly and was a perfect day complete with so many little details.

Preview | Samantha & Ory

Samantha & Ory | Wedding

The Big Day

The wedding weekend began with a welcome “short course” par-3 golf tournament — complete with matching guest outfits and Twisted Tea beverages, courtesy of one of Samantha’s longtime brand partners — setting the tone for a celebration as joyful as it was personal. On the morning of the wedding, rain threatened to appear, but one quick phone call to Ory immediately calmed Samantha’s nerves. Soon after, laughter and music filled the suite as she danced around the room with her closest girls — a candid, joy-filled moment before saying “I do.”

Their first look took place atop the mountain at McLemore, where sweeping views framed an emotional embrace filled with tears and gratitude. Samantha then shared a tender first look with her father on the front porch of their family home, another moment that perfectly captured the deep family ties woven throughout the day.

The ceremony was held in McLemore Resort’s courtyard, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Highlands Course. Officiated by Samantha’s brother, the service was intimate and heartfelt. As Samantha began her walk down the aisle, a surprise recording she had made for Ory played softly — a personal touch that left the groom in tears as he saw his bride for the first time.

The reception was a full-on celebration. Samantha brought in a custom alterations specialist to transform her gown mid-evening, surprising guests with an entirely new look before the dances began. The newlyweds’ first dance kicked off an unforgettable night with live music by Steel Toe Stilettos, who kept the energy high and the dance floor packed until the very end. Guests enjoyed a ten-layer chocolate chip cookie cake served with milk, embroidered hats tossed from the stage, and Auntie Anne’s pretzels as a late-night snack.

Every detail reflected Samantha’s thoughtful touch — from her robe lined with lace from her mother’s wedding gown, to Ory’s tux embroidered with their wedding date, to custom handkerchiefs made with fabric from both gowns. McLemore-branded gifts, handwritten notes at each place setting, and a bold red, black, and white design palette tied the day together in unforgettable style.

The Retreat

Ory took the reins with the honeymoon and made the whole trip a surprise. Which for Samantha and her self described “control issues” was tough to accept, but boy did he deliver. Ory planned a 3-week jaunt around England, Ireland, France, and more, complete with an 11-day luxury cruise on Crystal. The morning of the wedding, Ory gave Samantha a printed out, card stock itinerary with every detail. It even included things like shopping appointments, massages, dinner reservations, etc. It was an absolute dream three weeks for the couple.

Samantha & Ory | Wedding

Hallmark Wedding Vendors

Photographer: The Snells | Wedding Planner: Will and Rose Events

Contributing Vendors