High school sweethearts who first eloped as teenagers, Tempest and Justin’s southern wedding at Castle Hill was more than just a celebration…it was a testament to their love, the strength of their relationship, and the life they’ve built together. Captured by Taylor Square Photography, the day blended a balance of timeless tradition and modern ease, defined by an “old-money” elegance. As the celebration took shape, every detail, from the setting to the design, reflected the same sense of intention and romance the couple embodied…keep reading to see all the details!
The Venue
Castle Hill in Oxford, Mississippi is a stunning southern wedding venue set amongst rolling hills and towering trees. With its elegant architecture and sweeping outdoor views, the property feels timeless and romantic, offering a naturally beautiful backdrop.
Tempest and Justin leaned into the venue’s classic charm by adding elegant white rose floral arrangements on the pedestals of the steps and around the trim of the door. The result was an unmistakable old-money elegance, one that highlighted the venue’s intricate architectural detailing. Inside, polished gathering spaces, a chapel, and a gracious reception area offers a seamless setting for both intimate celebrations and larger gatherings, allowing the estate’s character to remain front and center.
The Stationery
Keeping with the black-tie tone, the stationery set the mood long before guests arrived to Tempest and Justin’s wedding. Timeless typography paired with elegant calligraphy, finished with chic black ribbon and soft gold accents, offered a refined first impression and a subtle preview of what’s to come.
The Bride
For the ceremony, Tempest wore a gown designed by Anne Barge from Maggie Louise Bridal that balanced classic elegance with a modern, effortless sensibility. Timeless jewelry complemented the look, highlighting the intricate details of the dress while feeling entirely true to her.
As the morning unfolded, Tempest was surrounded by her closest circle who consistently grounded her throughout the day. They checked in often, gently reminding her to slow down and soak in each moment of this special day, and created a quiet support system. These moments truly shaped Tempest’s experience, she shared, underscoring how deeply the right people can influence your wedding day.
The Ceremony
Tempest and Justin knew going into the wedding planning process they wanted to honor tradition while making space for personal touches. From leaning fully into the rituals of a classic wedding to weaving in subtle modern details, with the help of wedding planner Emily Burton, they created a look that felt timeless yet personal…an effortless nod to the elegance Tempest was drawn to for her wedding design.
White rose bouquets lined the aisle atop the reflective flooring, creating an atmosphere that felt ethereal. The groomsmen were suited in classic tuxedos, while bridesmaids wore sleep black dresses, adding a modern edge, striking a refined balance between tradition and contemporary style.
The Happy Couple
High school sweethearts, Tempest and Justin, waited nearly 18 years to celebrate the wedding they once never imagined. What began as a friendship in 2004 grew slowly and organically.
Growing up, Tempest was never the little girl constantly dreaming of a wedding day, yet life had a way of rewriting that story. When Justin enlisted in the military while he was in college and she was still in high school, their path took an unexpected turn. They took a leap of faith few dared to understand, and eloped at just 17 and 19 years old. Nearly two decades later, this wedding became more than a celebration; it stood as a testament to their love and the power of their relationship.
The Celebration
Tempest dreamed up a design that felt both timeless and modern, grounded in an “old-money” elegance and softened by Southern Bloom’s stunning florals. With Emily Burton’s expert planning bringing every detail together seamlessly, the day unfolded with ease. Even a little rain couldn’t dampen the joy, as the celebration remained filled with laughter, music, and so much love.
Drawing from European inspiration, their dinner celebration felt straight out of a movie. Chandeliers hung above long-lined tablescapes dressed in white rose florals carried over from the ceremony, layered with candles, pears, and gold plateware. Wooden chairs introduced natural texture, grounding the design in the venue’s surroundings, while vine-wrapped posts supporting the chandeliers made guests feel as though they were dining in a European vineyard.
The Perfect Ending
“This might seem beyond cheesy to say, but everything was perfect.”
According to Tempest, her wedding day truly felt flawless. With the right planning and team behind you, every bride deserves to walk away feeling that kind of magic — even with a few small hiccups along the way.
Tempest and Justin’s wedding at Castle Hill was a beautiful reminder that the most meaningful celebrations are the ones rooted in time, intention, and love. With elegance, thoughtful details, and deeply personal moments, the day felt as timeless as the story it honored. If you loved this southern wedding celebration, be sure to check-out Charming Southern Wedding with Copper and Blush Hues for more inspiration!
