Maddie and Andy have been friends since they were youngsters growing up in Atlanta, carpooling together to preschool, soccer games, and birthday parties. When Maddie moved away at age eight, their families, who had been friends even before Maddie and Andy’s birth, stayed in touch.

After Andy graduated with an engineering degree from Auburn University, he moved back to his hometown. Maddie had moved to New York City, where she lived for more than four years. Once the pandemic hit in early 2020, she decided to leave Manhattan for a bit and visit her parents in Pawleys Island. Andy, needing a vacation, decided to visit them as well. 

It was here along the Grand Strand that the childhood friends reconnected and began their love story!

After two years of dating, Maddie decided to give up her New York apartment and move to Atlanta - on the condition that they visit New York at least twice a year! During one of these visits, Andy proposed on a Brooklyn pier, with an incredible view of the Manhattan  skyline. 

In October 2022, they took a trip to New York with a few friends from Atlanta. Andy, who is not much for planning, surprised everyone by saying he really wanted to see Brooklyn. 

Interestingly, he laid out a very specific plan to see some sights. A bit suspicious, Maddie played along as they Ubered and headed across the bridge. As they walked along the pier, their friends quickly disappeared, and in the city of millions, it suddenly felt as though they were the only people there. Andy smiled and pulled out the ring and the rest is history!

Andy and Maddie’s wedding was held at Caledonia Golf & Fish Club in Pawleys Island. It was a romantic and beautiful day, with bridesmaids wearing navy satin dresses, and guys donning black tuxes. Their dachshunds Marty and Strudel made an appearance during some formal pictures, and everyone enjoyed the band’s live music.

At the reception, also held at Caledonia, Andy and Maddie enjoyed their first dance as newlyweds – swaying to Zach Bryan’s song “Holy Roller.”  The parents danced afterward, followed by a delicious dinner catered by Inlet Affairs. A tasty carrot cake was provided by Croissants Bistro and Bakery. The remainder of the night was full of dancing by the band Creativity, out of Atlanta. 

The couple now live in Atlanta, where Andy continues as an engineer and Maddie works as a consultant. 

Photos by Jeff and Molly Patterson