ANNE RILEY & THOMAS
March 26, 2022
A hometown love story, it was only natural for the wedding of Anne Riley Green and Thomas Owen Davis to incorporate the beauty of our beloved Bay. “The vision was inspired by my favorite areas in the springtime. Thomas and I wanted our guests to experience the unforgettable sunset views. When our day finally came, it was just that!” Anne Riley beams.
The wedding ceremony took place at Fairhope’s Trinity Presbyterian Church, the bride’s childhood place of worship. Raised in Fairhope, she shares, “It’s a precious church that sits on the bluff overlooking our beautiful Bay. When you walk through the front doors you can see the Mobile skyline where Thomas was born and raised. So, this church connected the two places we love the most,” she shares.
““Saying our vows was the most memorable and special moment! My emotions were so powerful and I will forever cherish that feeling.””
Known for its pristine scenery and lake views, the couple’s reception took place at Steelwood Country Club in Loxley. “We fell in love with Steelwood because of its beautiful landscapes, delicious food, amazing staff, and of course, for being able to surprise our guests with a firework send-off show!” Anne Riley explains.
The daughter of John B. Green and Christian H. Flynn and the son of Mr. Dudley O. Davis and Mrs. Lisa L. Davis, the couple fondly recalls how they met, sharing, “We met through friends, and had our first date at Moe’s BBQ in downtown Mobile during Mardi Gras. We shared a platter of dry rub wings, and the rest is history!”
As for knowing Thomas was the one, Anne Riley adds, “I knew he was the man I was supposed to marry early into our relationship. We are compatible on many levels and I just knew I could never let him go!”
With total adoration for one another, Thomas shares, “I adore how she makes each day special no matter what, as well as her work ethic, drive for life, and caring heart.” Chiming in, Anne Riley adds, “To know him is to love him! I adore his compassionate nature and consideration for me and others. He has the most beautiful soul that seeks out the best in others and his spirit is infectious!”
As for the proposal? “It was so creative and thoughtful! His inspiration was sparked by my passion for art and a memory of buying our first painting by local artist, Bill Harrison, at The Garage in Point Clear. The painting is an incredible rendering of Dauphin Street that highlights the iconic Three Georges Fine Southern Chocolates complete with the sidewalk’s daily special sandwich board. Thomas said he was taking me to a ‘surprise brunch,’ and while walking down Dauphin Street, I stopped in my tracks when we arrived at Three Georges and that sandwich board read, ‘Anne Riley, Will You Marry Me?’ Down one knee, he recreated the scene from the painting in real life!” She swoons.
The couple started planning from there. “My gown was my top priority! I found the dress of my dreams at The White Room in Birmingham with my mother. Named “Spellbound”, a gown from Anne Barge’s couture collection, it featured 3D embroidery and hand-beaded lace. Every inch of its delicate features and incredible detail enchanted me. My bridesmaids wore a timeless champagne hued gown by Amsale from Mobile’s Bella Bridesmaids. Thomas wore a tailored Italian black tuxedo paired with Roberto Cavalli loafers and sterling silver cufflinks. His groomsmen looked so distinguished in their coordinating classic black tuxedos and bow ties!” Anne Riley tells us.
With no detail overlooked, the couple had a five-piece band, Bad Brad & The Sipsey Slims, from Muscle Shoals. “They rocked the house and had guests of all ages on the dance floor with an assortment of soul, funk, and blues. From passed Hors D’oeuvres like lump Blue Crab cakes and spring rolls with a Thai chili sauce to the main course offerings like the pepper crusted beef tenderloin, and a mashed potato bar. The talented chefs at Steelwood went above and beyond our expectations,” Anne Riley recalls.
On a deeper note, Anne Riley shares her favorite moment. “Saying our vows was the most memorable and special moment! My emotions were so powerful and I will forever cherish that feeling.” For Thomas? “During our first dance to ‘Bring It on Home to Me” by Sam Cooke, my nerves were racing and I was full of excitement. It will always be a very special moment for me.”
Mackensie Turner, Virginia Bender, Katherine Lewellen, and Victoria Watts served as Anne Riley’s beautiful bridesmaids. “They are truly a blessing, and I do not know where I’d be without such remarkable friends,” Anne Riley beams. “While extremely grateful for our parents, I have to acknowledge Andie Bender and Sharon Mosley, my two best friends’ mothers, who spent the entire day helping me get down the aisle!”
The couple honeymooned in Jamaica and today they reside in Spanish Fort with their three dogs—Bo, Sophie, and Sage. Anne Riley shares, “I work at Harvest Jewels in Fairhope while starting Anne Riley Fine Art to continue my passion and create commissioned work for people near and far! Thomas has worked for his family’s business at Port City Foreign Car Service in Mobile for over 8 years. His plans are to maintain that success for generations to come. More importantly, the couple hopes to build a beautiful life for their future children. Anne Riley feels that, “each day never fails to be a new adventure and I am soaking up every moment!”
