November 4, 2017
When Chandler Barrett began working for United Way of Lee County, she never imagined her new job would lead to a happily ever after. Shortly after joining the staff, coworker Whitney Lockhart noticed similarities in Chandler’s interests and the passions of Mitch Williams, the best friend of Whitney’s husband, Dennis.
“They seemed to be on the same path and at pretty much the same place in their lives, mentally, physically and spiritually,” says Whitney. “They both worked out a lot; they had the same values and the same faith; everything about both of them just seemed like a natural fit.” And it was. Whitney sent a Snapchat message to Mitch, who then reached out to Chandler (he likes to say they met through Snapchat), and the rest, as they say, is history.
Chandler and Mitch began dating in August 2016 and were engaged less than a year later. “It didn’t take us long to realize we were meant for each other,” says Chandler. “Even though our personalities are exact opposites – I am an introvert and Mitch is a major extrovert – we really do complement each other and bring out the best in each other.” On a spring day in April 2017, Mitch and Chandler went to Town Creek Park to throw a Frisbee with Chandler’s sister, Austill, and her husband, Andy, an activity they did often. Only on this day, Mitch left something in the car, and the next thing Chandler knew, he was behind her, down on one knee. She said yes.
When Chandler began planning her big day, she knew she wanted three things: a fall wedding, a reception in the backyard of her parents’ home and the same Motown band that played for her sister’s wedding just two years ago. “Being huge Auburn fans, my daddy (Tutt Barrett) did not want a fall wedding,” says Chandler. “And remembering all the work that went into having Austill’s reception at our house, he wasn’t very fired up about that either.” But, you know how daddies and daughters are. The wedding was Nov. 4, 2017 at Trinity United Methodist Church in Opelika. The reception was held in the backyard of Tutt and Kathy’s home in Auburn and The Main Attraction was the band. Just like Chandler wanted.
Wedding planner: Donna Phillips, Special Arrangements Party and Event Rentals
Flowers: Catherine Wayman, C Wayman Floral and Events
Photographer: Brooke Glassford, Colorbox
Video: 1717 Cinema
Makeup: Jessica Tinsley, Beauty by Jess
Caterer: Billy Lee, Terra Cotta Catering
Cakes: Robbin Fowler, Sonshine Wedding Cakes, LLC
