In a heartwarming celebration, Malaki Starks, a safety for the Baltimore Ravens, and Savanna Jackson exchanged vows on March 20 at Little River Farms in Milton, Georgia. The couple, who have known each other since elementary school, hosted an intimate ceremony at their dream venue, surrounded by close friends and family.
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The wedding evokes a “classic and timeless vibe,” featuring elegant blue and gold accents, plentiful hydrangeas, and tasteful vintage décor. With a guest list limited to 140 people, Jackson expressed the couple’s desire for a day that felt personal and intimate. “When planning our day, we envisioned an intimate ceremony that allowed us to celebrate our love surrounded by people who supported us and our love throughout our entire journey,” she said.
Both now aged 22, Starks and Jackson have come a long way since meeting in fourth grade. Their relationship blossomed from childhood friends to romantic partners, culminating in an engagement on October 25, 2024, at their favourite getaway in Tennessee. Jackson described this journey as a “dream come true,” reflecting on how their wedding day allowed them to capture the love they have developed over the years.
The meticulous planning was largely done by Jackson, who revelled in bringing the couple’s vision to life. The wedding included thoughtful details that reflected their shared history, like preserved flowers dating back to their time in middle school and a memory table to honour family members. Guests were greeted with customised napkins featuring snippets from the couple’s love letters exchanged throughout their years together.
In a break from tradition, the couple chose not to have a first look before the ceremony, opting instead to experience that special moment during their vows. The ceremony itself was unplugged, encouraging guests to fully engage in the occasion. Jackson made her way down the aisle while a touching rendition of “Je te laisserai des mots” by Patrick Watson played, wearing a simple yet elegant dress designed by Justin Alexander. Her hair and makeup were expertly styled by local professionals.
The officiant for the ceremony was Starks’ childhood pastor, Sylvania Watkins, who also married Starks’ parents, lending a personal touch to the proceedings. As they said their vows, Jackson reflected on the deeper meaning of marriage for them. “Getting married for us means choosing each other every day for the rest of our lives and vowing to continue being each other’s best friend and support system through the highs and lows of life,” she stated.
Following the ceremony, the couple shared their first dance to the iconic “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King, before cutting into a small, two-tier cake, featuring both vanilla and red velvet flavours. Guests enjoyed a lavish buffet that included buffalo chicken spring rolls and sous vide sirloin, alongside sweet treats like cupcakes and a dessert bar featuring delights from Mady Cakes Bakery.
As they embark on this new chapter, the couple is planning a mini honeymoon in Puerto Rico and a longer trip later in the summer. “We are most excited to share a last name and begin our future together. It is a symbol of a new chapter of our lives that we could not be more excited for,” Jackson expressed.
Saying “I do” marks the beginning of a new journey for Starks and Jackson, as they look forward to spending quality time together and eventually starting a family.
This joyous occasion not only celebrates the union of two hearts but also the enduring bond that has developed since childhood, creating a foundation built on love, friendship, and shared memories.