April 11, 2026 // Ceremony and Reception at The Calirojae
Sometimes the best love stories begin with two people who have always been in each other’s orbit. Kelan and Kelsey first connected on social media during Mardi Gras just a few years ago. Throughout their conversations, they learned that they had both attended the University of South Alabama and shared many mutual friends, though their paths hadn’t crossed until that point. Their connection lasted through long distance and only strengthened when Kelsey moved back to Mobile from Atlanta.
For their wedding at The Calirojae, the couple opted for a rose gold color palette, complete with gold accents, lush white florals and glowing candles to create an undeniably romantic atmosphere. The elegance carried over to the bride’s dress, which featured a sweetheart neckline and sequin accents. In her hair, the bride wore a crystal hairpin, and a long veil rounded out her look.
The couple’s friends and family attended the ceremony, surrounding the bride and groom with love and support. After their vows in front of their guests, all in attendance transitioned over to the reception. After the newlyweds’ grand second-line entrance — an ode to the Mardi Gras beginnings of their relationship — the new Mr. and Mrs. James shared a first dance, complete with cold sparks and lots of emotion from the onlookers. Afterward, all enjoyed food, drinks and dancing the night away in celebration of the couple’s love story.
Family
Parents Of The Bride Allister and Shay Finley
Grandparents of the Bride Cornelius and Pamela Harris
Parents Of The Groom Dekelly James and Lacey Ridgeway
Grandparents of the Groom Mrs. Lela James
Vendors
Photographer Ladd Love Visuals Inc.
Videographer Andrew Taylor, True King Visuals
Wedding Dress Bridal and Formal Boutique & House of Tux (Gulfport, MS)
Hair Sandra Bellows
Makeup Esther Louis
Florist Derrick Griffin, Griffin and Co.
Caterer Cheryl Calhoun, CC’s Classic Catering, LLC
Bakery LaBrandi Covey McFadden
Band Juke Box Brass Band
DJ DJ Tech
Wedding Coordinator Chante Hendrix
