Mutual friends introduced Emery Rome to Andrew “Drew” McMahon soon after beginning their freshman year at University of Alabama. They were interested in each other almost immediately, and that interest grew after getting to know one another better. After dating throughout most of their college years, Emery and Drew felt ready to take the next step in their relationship.
During a private moment at his grandparents’ house, Drew proposed and Emery joyfully said “yes.” Their close family and friends then joined them for a night of celebrating. The couple then began planning their wedding in the bride’s hometown, New Orleans.
Family traditions were especially important to them. Therefore, Emery and Drew were thrilled to have their rehearsal dinner at Commander’s Palace, in the very same room where her parents had their rehearsal dinner in 1991.
On August 23, 2025, they carried on another tradition when they were married at Holy Name of Jesus Church, where Emery’s parents and several other family members had said their vows. After Father Mark Thibodeaux pronounced them husband and wife, they and their guests headed to Il Mercato for an unforgettable reception.
Il Mercato had the perfect balance of character and room for creativity, allowing Drew and Emery to bring their garden party vision to life. The venue was decked out in soft, colorful pastels, with decor that added texture and dimension to an already-lovely space.
As guests took in the beauty of the decor, they enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres created by Joel Catering. Joel crafted a stellar menu, and a Lucky Dog cart added to the fun, casual atmosphere. The wedding cake and groom’s cake, both by Bittersweet Confections, added the perfect bit of sweetness.
The sweetest moment of all was the couple’s first dance to “Still the One” by Shania Twain. Emery grew up listening to that song, and the newlyweds felt it was the perfect song to begin their life together.
Once the dance floor opened, D’Play kept it packed all night long! Knowing they would have a high-energy evening, Emery and Drew arranged espresso martinis and mini beignets for the end of the celebration. Guests left with full stomachs, full hearts, and a bevy of custom favors—tennis balls from the couple’s two-year-old Golden Retriever (Tush), tattoos, tambourines, beads, cups, napkins, and matches.
After saying goodbye to their family and friends, Drew and Emery spent a week at Amanyara, a tropical resort in Turks and Caicos, where they had a chance to relax and unwind. They then returned to their home in the groom’s hometown, Birmingham, AL, where Emery is a pilates instructor and Drew is an associate at Ligon Industries.
Reception Décor: Distressed Rentals, Luminous Events
Coordinator: Iris and Oak Events
Ceremony Music: Holy Name of Jesus Church
Wedding Gown: Mira Zwillinger, Neiman Marcus Bridal Salon (Dallas, TX)
Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Light pink dress of their choosing
Groom’s Attire: Brogue and Cuff (Birmingham, AL)
Groomsmen’s Attire: Their own tuxedos
Engagement Ring: Levy’s Fine Jewelry (Birmingham, AL)
Bride’s Wedding Band: Levy’s Fine Jewelry (Birmingham, AL)
Groom’s Wedding Band: Levy’s Fine Jewelry (Birmingham, AL)
Florist: Floral Design by Elle
Invitation: Mpress Printing
Photographer: Emily Green
Hair: Rachel Barbin
Makeup: Nicole Costanza
