North Carolina Wedding Ideas and Inspiration - Style Me Pretty

Late Fall: Our New Favorite Time To Say “I Do”

I have a new favorite time of year for weddings: late fall. The leaves are still crisp, the colors still vibrant but there is that magic chill in the air as the holidays approach. It’s basically the perfect recipe for romance if you ask me. And this North Carolina celebration, captured by The Ganeys, has this all and more. We were sold from first glance of the berry-hued bridesmaids and the too cute for words couple, but then add in the film by Maiography and there is just no denying it; we have a winner through and through. See all right this way!

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Estate Weddings

From The Ganeys… Amanda was a dream bride for us! She is the kind of girl that has every detail planned. She and Alex had anticipated their Hawkesdene wedding for over a year. To say their wedding was perfect would be an understatement. The weather was crisp but welcoming. Laughter surrounded Amanda and Alex throughout the day. The words that these two exchanged were so impactful. These two are so deserving of their love, and I couldn’t be more honored that Thomas and I were by their sides documenting the event.

When we first arrived at Hawkesdene, I was blown away by the beauty. The leaves were turning as fall was coming to a close.

Amanda wore a sleeved gown with lace details. Her hair was pulled back into a low bun. Her bridesmaids by her sides had floor-length berry-colored gowns that were perfect for the fall season. In their hands they carried bouquets filled with succulents, burgundy hydrangeas, and anemones. Each bouquet was wrapped with lace from Amanda’s mother’s wedding gown.

Alex wore a suit with a wool vest to keep him warm. His velvet bowtie was perfect for the season. Each of his groomsmen wore cufflinks that represented their passions – video games, drawing, fishing, and tabletop games.

Amanda and Alex shared their first look on the lawn and had the biggest smiles on their faces – so overwhelmed with joy that this day was finally here!

The ceremony was held under a tunnel of trees – twinkle lights hanging from them, creating the most romantic scene (plus, llamas to the side, what could be better?). Alex and Amanda opted to exchange personal vows – in addition to traditional ones. The promises they made to each other were some of the most heartfelt I’ve heard.

After they officially became husband and wife, we were whisked away to the top of the mountain for some champagne.

Their reception space was breathtaking. Held under a white tent, the long farm tables covered with garlands welcomed guests to their seats. Each place setting had a sprig of rosemary. Their welcome book was a globe that the guests could sign and on the other end of the space, there was a lounge next to the fireplace where guests could warm up. As favors, guests took home jars of apple butter.

It was such a beautiful wedding and I couldn’t be happier for Amanda and Alex!

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The Key to the Perfect Outer Banks Wedding

We don’t need to tell you that the Outer Banks in North Carolina is a gorgeous place to tie the knot – the beauty in this seaside paradise truly speaks for itself. But if you’re on the lookout for a resort that can host your Big Day sans any stress on your part, we can help. The Sanderling Resort sits right on the Atlantic and has some amazing venue + package options that will bring your entire vision full-circle. Check it out.

The key to any amazing wedding? Finding the right locale. And with Sanderling Resort, you can pretty much sit back and relax while their planners take care of it all for you, starting with helping you land on the right package option. Sanderling Resort offers five elopement packages for 15 – 60 guests that include everything from wedding cakes to s’mores around the fire pit. Their full-service package works for those larger celebrations for up to 180 guests and their winter package waives the facility fee and the food and beverage minimum, which is awesome. And if you want to talk venues – you can tie the knot seaside on their beautiful beach or Observation Deck, host a grander event at their House + Deck or Pavilion, or celebrate in an intimate soiree at their Kimball’s Kitchen or Keeper’s Loft.

From their fresh southern coastal cuisine to their team of pros that know everything there is to know about planning a seaside wedding, we love Sanderling Resort and their breathtaking Outer Banks locale. To find out more about planning your Big Day, call their fab team of wedding planners at 877.300.0624 or visit their website here.

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Your Guide to Incorporating Rich Colors in Your Wedding

Incorporating a pop of color into your wedding design can be intimidating, let alone choosing a palette consisting of primarily rich, bold hues. However, it can be done…and done well, as The Graceful Host and Allison Kuhn Photography prove right here in this dramatic and beautiful editorial. Stunning floral arrangements by Amy Lynne Originals set against teal velvet linens by Nuage Designs create an alluring tablescape, and the pièce de résistance is a cake by Wow Factor that can only be described as a work of art.

From The Graceful Host… This styled shoot was a collaboration with Allison Kuhn Photography. We started talking about producing a shoot in order to create content that we don’t see a lot of, like the use of rich, bold colors. And it morphed into something we are both really proud of! The idea is a modern charm, which I describe as old world elements meets luxurious, high fashion style. I always want my designs feel fresh and new, so I took ideas that are classic in nature and gave them a little twist to modernize.

The colors were teal, lavender, blush, yellow, marsala, and ivory with gold accents. Since we were incorporating a wide variety of colors, I wanted to make sure the colors felt sophisticated and elegant rather than child-like. It should come together like a painting, which was the inspiration behind the cake and was repeated in the vellum envelope of our invitation suite. The floral design mimicked the artistic inspiration, as well, by playing up texture through the blooms and greenery.

Throughout our tablescape design, we layered texture upon texture – from the linen to the place setting to the paper goods. Our place settings incorporated contemporary designs through the dinner plates and flatware mixed with etched crystal goblets and gold rim glasses that are vintage in nature. Each place setting also had a vellum menu with a handwritten script-style design, and the table was draped in a bold teal, velvet linen.

The wedding dress was a classic, delicate a-line ballgown with on-trend and contemporary design elements including beading, an illusion neckline, and layers upon layers of tulle. The look was luxurious and fashion forward. Hair and makeup was understated elegance and fresh, paired with a bold plum lip.

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See Why We Always Fall in Love With Southern Weddings

Wanting to introduce their friends and family to the State they now call home, this couple – originally from New York City – chose the Merrimon-Wynne House for their North Carolina garden wedding. With the help of A Southern Soiree, they put on a truly beautiful, Southern affair. Both Twenty-One Films and Theo Milo Photography were there to capture the pretty as a peach day, so scroll on and then press play!

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From A Southern Soiree… Having recently moved to North Carolina from New York City, this sweet couple dreamed of a wedding day where their family and friends could enjoy a taste of the place they now call home and have grown to love. In search of southern history and charm, the Merrimon Wynne House proved to be the perfect location for Blair and Danny’s southern, garden chic vision to come to life. Beautiful blooms in a palette of dusty blue, peach, and ivory paired with luxurious furniture and linens enhanced the beauty of the Merrimon Wynne House, creating an intimately warm space for loved ones to celebrate. A custom removable sheer train enhanced the bride’s stunning Vera Wang gown and added the perfect amount of fluttering romance to a magical affair. A Chilean three legged pig, a sweet gesture of love and friendship, welcomed guests to their seats as they dined a la fresco under a sea of greenery and market lights. A locally inspired and sourced meal from the amazing team of Snap Pea Underground and Catering followed by an evening of live music and even more delicious treats left guests departing a night to remember with their stomachs and hearts full.

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THIS Is How You Throw the Ultimate South Beach Wedding

Thinking of saying “I do” in South Beach? Then let this gorgeous wedding (and couple) be your guide. Literally everything about their day screams total glamour – from the decor to the dance ’til your drop reception to the luxurious W South Beach locale. Find out so much more about throwing your very own dream wedding below.

Miami is made for marrying. And the W South Beach? They know how to get it done. From your very first moments of planning to your last sip of champagne, their team of wedding professionals will help you create that wedding you’ve always wanted, just like this gorgeous couple’s Big Day. They definitely took advantage of the amazing views from the oceanfront locale, awesome venue choices (indoor AND outdoor) and customizable menus. We love the way they transformed the Great Room into an ultra-luxe Miami party, and are especially smitten with The Grove for an al fresco reception up to 150 and the Cabana at WET for an intimate celebration if you’re looking for something a bit different. And don’t even get us started on the gorgeous rooms, guest amenities and fun activities. We love the WOW factor.

Whether you plan on saying “I do” with just a few close friends and family or want to throw the celebration of the century like this stunning duo, the W South Beach can make it all happen… and beautifully. From their amazing staff to their Whatever/Whenever® service (they’ll truly bend over backwards) to their awesome wedding packages, you honestly can’t go wrong. For site tours and booking, contact Marina Serret at 305.938.3028 to get your Miami party started.

Contact the W South Beach to ask about SAYING “I DO” IN STYLE

Complimentary in-suite couples massage for bride and groom during the wedding weekend
1 -Year-Anniversary complimentary room night with breakfast in bed
Cabana for the day after the wedding with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot
Complimentary 1 Hour of Wonderful Bar
Special pricing for Rehearsal Dinner and Wedding Brunch available
Minimum revenue applies

Toasting to Five Years of Love… And Many More to Come!

I believe in celebrating every happy occasion and five years of marriage is, without a doubt, a moment to cheers to. So the pics from this anniversary shoot warmed my heart from the start… but it wasn’t just that. These two are what I like to call “relationship goals”; they know what is really important to them, and radiate that confidence and love in every one of these pics by Callie Davis of Nancy Ray Photography. That beautiful energy was captured as they smiled at the oh so pretty Pinehurst and they set the goal for themselves to do the same when they toast to 50 years of wedded bliss in the future… and I can’t wait to see it.

From Carrington Buck, lead planner at Erin McLean Events… Pinehurst is one of the most iconic little towns in North Carolina and is known around the world as the birthplace of American golf. But for us, it’s a little bit more. For Justin’s 30th birthday I gave him a gift that checked off a bucket list item for him, playing Pinehurst Number 2, one of the most famous courses in the country. Justin could eat, live, and breathe golf and be just fine and believe it or not, I could too (I am learning to play – but I love to watch!) Thus began our love affair with the tiny town that we one day would like to call home. From its authentic Southern hospitality, to the perfectly manicured golf courses, and the welcoming rocking chairs of the front veranda of the Carolina, this place embodies everything we love.

So on October 13th of this year, our marriage turned five, so we decided to ask our dear friend, Callie Davis, of Nancy Ray Photography to capture our relationship on camera to celebrate. It took me a little while to land on the right spot that was truly “us”. I kept thinking about Justin and I out in a random field and that almost made me laugh out loud – we are outdoorsy in that we like to have a cocktail on a warm sunny patio or beach somewhere in the Caribbean. Then we thought about downtown Raleigh, the place that we have called home for the last four years, and though we love Raleigh, that didn’t seem quite right either. Then it hit me, Pinehurst. One of the most beautiful, quaint, and peaceful places I’ve ever been but more importantly the place where Justin and I want to celebrate our 50th anniversary – the place we one day want to grow old together, preferably with champagne and plenty of afternoon golf outings.

So replacing playing Pinehurst Number 2 on our bucket list, one day doing this same shoot (Callie, are you up for it?!) when we are celebrating 50 years of marriage together. I hope when that day comes you’ll still be able to see the joy in our hearts – but more so, the love in our relationship – but more so, maybe the whole family we have built over our life together. Bring on the wrinkles!

A Blush + White Elegant Country Club Celebration

This gorgeous gown set the stage for one absolutely lovely celebration that just gets better and better with every glance through this gallery. With delicate white flowers cascading down the bodice, leading right to an equally beautiful bouquet, we have a blush and gold elegant affair that we can’t stop pinning. Caroline Lima captured it all for our viewing pleasure and her pics are pretty much making our day – see them all right this way!

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From Caroline Lima… When I met Brooke and Brad for their engagement session back in February, I knew their wedding was going to be something special! These two are so much fun to spend time with, so very much in love… they can make one another laugh with just a glance! When we parted ways that day I immediately began to look forward to their wedding, knowing that their celebration would be as joyous and sweet as they are… and I wasn’t wrong!

The ceremony took place at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, with the following reception moving to the Charlotte Country Club. Brooke was such a dream to work with; getting ready, she was ahead of time and completely calm. And she looked absolutely stunning!! Her dress was so beautiful and unique, with spaghetti straps, and white flowers cascading down the bodice onto the skirt. It fit her perfectly, and when Brad dipped her at the altar it was magical! As much fun as I was having (I kept laughing behind my camera during the amazing toasts!) I also found myself swept into the emotion of the day. If you read my blog, you know I love emotional weddings… and I have to confess that I teared up during the first dances. Before long, the bride and groom were completely rocking the dance floor, and all of their guests joined in with such excitement and happiness! What a crazy dance floor and I love it!

Finally, I have to mention that Brooke shared something very meaningful with me. She told me that her father worked for National Geographic for several years. If you are familiar with National Geographic, you know that he might have seen truly incredible photography, so when Brooke was vetting wedding photographers, she asked for her dad’s opinion. He looked over some of the options, and then told Brooke she should book me because I knew how to capture emotions the best. This is such a huge compliment! When I fell in love with photography, it was because of the ability a photograph has to show people’s feelings. Hearing that Brooke’s dad saw the emotion in my work was huge validation that I’m on the right path, and I was so grateful to have been part of their big day. Very special to watch Brooke and Brad tie the knot in a swirl of so much love and support!

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Monique Lhuillier

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An Insider’s Guide To Your Birmingham Wedding

When it comes to tying the knot, Birmingham is one of those hidden gems that makes your wedding weekend just as fun as it is stylish. Trust us, just one stop in “The Magic City” and you’ll be smitten. Which is why we’re teaming up The Westin Birmingham to bring you a little insider’s guide on how to make the most of your Birmingham celebration. From fun activities to amazing restaurants, we’ve got you covered.

BEST SPOT FOR PHOTO OPS

Our Pick: The Westin Birmingham.

Why we love it: We all know that choosing a venue with stellar photo ops is sooo important, and The Westin Birmingham will definitely not disappoint. We can’t get over the vertical wall and stairs combo that jumps out at you the second you walk into the lobby (hello, drama) AND the views of Uptown from the rooftop pool. Taking those newlywed images to an entirely new (breathtaking) level has never been easier.

Our Pick: Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Why we love it: Three words: sooo many flowers. Plus, gorgeous greenery and awe-inspiring structures, too. Which means that you can snap those moments with your love surrounded by everything from beautiful roses to tulips to camellias, the perfect backdrop for those fall wedding captures. Bonus? It’s just a 10 minute drive from The Westin Birmingham, so you don’t have to miss your entire cocktail hour.

FAVE RESTAURANTS

Our Pick: Todd English P.U.B.

Why we love it: No wedding is complete without a fabulous lineup of restaurants on the itinerary, and if one of those restaurants happens to be in the lobby of The Westin Birmingham? Even better. Todd English P.U.B. boasts a full Raw Bar, plus a lineup of traditional American “comfort foods” that will leave your tummies happy. And the Bloody Mary Cart? A must for your morning-after brunch AND a quick jaunt down from your luxe accommodations.

Our Pick: Perry’s Steakhouse

Why we love it: Just a short 20 minute Uber from The Westin Birmingham’s Uptown location, Perry’s Steakhouse is one of our fave spots in Birmingham. Why? It’s tasty award-winning menu will get you every. single. time. and the cocktails are super tasty. We suggest trying this locale out for a yummy rehearsal dinner or bachelor/bachelorette party.

Our Pick: Galley and Garden

Why we love it: And speaking of rehearsal dinners, the Galley and Garden is a beautiful spot for that night-before celebration with your nearest and dearest. We’re sort of obsessed with the historic Merritt House locale and the beautiful private dining options will really make your evening stand out. Oh, and the food? Spectacular.

FUN ACTIVITIES

Our Pick: Top Golf Birmingham

Why we love it: Guys, Top Golf is the best. Whether you’ve never picked up a club in your life, or happen to be the next Jordan Spieth, trust us on this one: you and your guests will love it. Plus, with good food, good drinks and fun to be had by all, it’s the perfect spot for any of those pre-wedding parties you have on the lineup… or a getaway with your love post-nuptials.

Our Pick: Sips n Strokes

Why we love it: If you’re looking for a more laid-back activity, Sips n Strokes is IT. Think wine, painting (your very own works of art) and tons of laughs with your besties. We’re loving this Birmingham hot spot as an amazing girls’ getaway with your bridal party – or a fun activity with all of your nearest and dearest who are in town to celebrate you and your love.

Our Pick: Locked in Birmingham

Why we love it: Having a list of activities for your guests is one of the most important parts of planning your Big Day and they’ll absolutely LOVE you when you add this brain charger to their itinerary. Because nothing says “bonding experience” quite like a game that requires you to use clues to escape from a room with your friends and family. So fun, you guys.

Ready to plan the week or weekend of a lifetime? Contact The Westin Birmingham as your starting point. They’ll take care of all of your wedding dreams (luxe accommodations, beautiful venues) and the city of Birmingham will handle the rest of the fun.

Photography: Sam Jasper Photography | Photography: NicTay Photography

Flowers Galore + a Bespoke Bridal Gown!

Flowers galore AND a bespoke bridal gown? This celebration planned by Asheville Event Co., lovelies, is what wedding dreams are made of. Floressence Flowers bedecked every available inch of this North Carolina wedding with fluffy pink and white blooms – from climbing arrangements on the side of the bridal hut to a grand hanging display at the reception. As if our hearts could take any more beauty, the Bride wore a custom lace creation by Kate McDonald Bridal which included a removable lace skirt overlay for a slightly different look at the reception – so on trend right now! You must see it all, captured by Perry Vaile Photography and Hart to Heart Media, so scroll on and then hit play!

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From the Bride… I envisioned everything just as it was planned! Missie Porter, our Asheville Event Co. wedding planner, went above and beyond to make all my visions for our wedding happen. It was such a fun process, and I wouldn’t change a thing. Our color palette was a lot of neutrals, with a touch of soft pink in the flowers. We went for a more timeless look while playing with the classy rustic feel of The Farm.

My favorite element that we included was having our parents and grandparents wedding pictures displayed as people walked into the reception area. Family is so important to both of us, and we thought it would be fun to incorporate the memories of their wedding days into ours! There were so many great moments. If I had to pick one, it would probably be walking out of the bridal hut with my dad. This was my favorite moment because it really hit me that I was getting ready to marry the love of my life. Also, while making that walk down the aisle, I was not only looking at my husband, but I was looking around at all the faces of our unbelievable friends and family that were there to witness our marriage and help hold us to the covenant that we made before the Lord.

My dress was made by the VERY talented Katherine McDonald of Kate McDonald Bridal. My dress was actually one of the easiest decisions I made during the process. We went to see Katherine in Charleston a year before the wedding, and she was so welcoming and kind. She was super easy to work with and helped me create the dress of my dreams. My favorite part of my dress was the beautiful laced skirt overlay that I was able to remove after the ceremony for a little different look for the reception.

My advice for Brides-to-be would be don’t stress about the small things! That is one thing that really let me enjoy all the celebrations through out the weekend. What may seem like a big deal to you, your guests most likely won’t even notice. Another piece of advice is something that Eric and I will cherish forever. We snuck away just the two of us to the outside area and took a second to ourselves to really take in what was going on at that moment. It brought us so much joy seeing everyone having such a wonderful time!

An Elegant, Organic Wedding at the Biltmore Estate

Whenever I see a wedding at the Biltmore Estate, my desire to visit this stunning site increases exponentially, but this wedding film right here? Well, it seals the deal. Not only does it show the venue at it’s absolute finest, but these two lovebirds warm my heart. With both in school, their schedules are packed to say the least, but they stopped to pause and say “I do” and Light Cannon Films was there to capture it all. And we’re glad they did because this is the type of film we all need to see; it’s just that good. Enjoy!

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Spring Weddings

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Church Estate Weddings

From Light Cannon Films… Caleb and Kelly could not have designed a more ideal day or venue to get married. Mountainous Asheville, NC was “ablaze with new life” as Kelly’s dad put it – everything was in bloom and the natural beauty of the Appalachians were a breathtaking backdrop to their wedding on the Biltmore Estate. While the main areas of the Estate were teeming with tourists and congratulatory onlookers as we tried to escape the crowds for a few photos, the reception was held at the Lioncrest, once the Vanderbilt’s barn but now a secluded and elegant venue.

The decor could not have been more youthful or natural, perfect for Caleb and Kelly. Kelly is in PA school and Caleb is in medical school, and they had to squeeze the wedding between tests and rotations, but it’s obvious to see that these two are the type not to slow down for anything. They are a team, they are best friends, and they are determined to make each other their top priority amidst all the chaos. They just make it work. And not just that; we happen to know from personal experience (since they are close family friends) that they have a ton of fun making it work. Our wishes for them are many more decades of fun and laughter and dancing, but also some well deserved rest. :)

A Custom Two-Piece Dress for a Glam Southern Bride

Madison and David met while volunteering in Haiti and it wasn’t long before they knew they’d found forever love. To celebrate their official kick off as Mr. and Mrs., they planned a glamorous North Carolina celebration complete with major fashion moments, including Madison’s custom two-piece dress by Erin Grey Couture. The fabulous Allison Kuhn photographed the day and the full gallery is just a click away.

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From the bride… I was never one of those girls who dreamt of a big, beautiful wedding all of my life. I only ever dreamt of marrying my best friend. Believe it or not, David was actually the one who requested that we even have a wedding! The one thing I was certain of was that I wanted it to be a short engagement. Because when you know- you know. So why wait!? When we first got engaged back in January, we could not make up our minds on how we wanted to tie the knot. Do we make a quick stop at the courthouse? Do we have a small destination wedding? Where would we even do it? How big? How small?

There are so many questions + details that go into planning a wedding. I had no idea! Not to mention the amount of preparation + refining I needed in my heart.

Soon after we got engaged, we went to Charlotte to celebrate with family and friends. For a girl who never dreamt of her fairytale wedding… I was quick to go dress shopping! It was a Sunday when we landed in CLT and all of the bridal boutiques were closed but my best friend, Anita (and also my maid of honor), found a few that happened to be open. My mom, Anita, and I had some good laughs that day. For some reason, neither of them could take me seriously in a wedding dress and all of these princess gowns were hysterical on me. I had never worn a big ball gown!

I knew that when I found the dress I would know what kind of wedding I’d want to have- because I would be able to picture myself walking down that aisle to that handsome face. Heart melts. A few days later, I found THE DRESS! It was a custom skirt that we turned into a dress and it was exactly what I pictured. Different, but classic, kind of funky, had a little sass, would maybe surprise some people, even David… I loved it. And so did my mom.

So, thanks to my dress- we decided to have a wedding! My mom was a hero the next few months. I mean, she’s always been my hero. But you have no idea how much time, effort, tears, you name it- she gave this wedding her all. We are both very creative, we love design and are incredibly detail oriented + also huge bargain hunters, so we figured we could handle this wedding on our own without a planner. Sheeeesh!! Planning a wedding is a full-time job! My mom took care of every single detail, down to the hand-stamped forks we ate our wedding cake with. We had a vision and she made it happen. I am so grateful for my amazing parents who gave us our dream wedding. Even more grateful for the high standards they set for marriage + family.

Because of their legacy I never settled + married my BEST FRIEND who I adore and admire and can’t even imagine a day without.

Yesterday when I asked what you guys wanted to read about, I had many messages about our relationship, how we met, our testimony. I won’t go into all of those details on the wedding post right now, but I had this revelation over our engagement that I thought I’d share. Back in March, I wrote this quote in my notes on my phone. I don’t even remember where I heard it but I go back to it often.

“A champion wants his greatest match to be his greatest battle.”

For me, my greatest medals I’ll ever wear will be the one with a title “WIFE” and the other (I pray one day) will be titled “MOM”. In order to win a medal you have to go to battle, right? I always heard marriage wasn’t easy- it’s going to be the never-ending battle of your lifetime. Unfortunately my parents always made it look incredibly easy so I never believed anyone when they told me this. But, I do understand that a good marriage takes WORK! Throughout our engagement, I realized that marriage was going to be my greatest match. My greatest battle with myself, the enemy, sometimes David, outsiders…

You don’t want to go into the greatest match of your lifetime against somebody who is just going to give up- you want to win with a fighter. I don’t know if this is making any sense, but it does to me, so here’s to hoping! I kept going back to this quote. I realized that I wanted to fight it out with David. I knew that I wanted to win this battle with him. We actually fight pretty well together. We fight for each other everyday. We definitely fought through hard times during our engagement- and I knew that I would never fight for anyone else the way I fight for him. And vice-versa.

Fast forward to the week leading up to our wedding. David, Winnie and I drove from Dallas to Charlotte. We love our road trips and always end up making some of our favorite memories on them.

Everyone had us prepare for the worst: we knew that there was a chance of rain, something was bound to go wrong!! But David and my mom both kept faith through it all- “it’s going to be perfect.” And it was.

The night before our wedding, David’s mom threw us a beautiful rehearsal dinner. We ate Mexican, drank margaritas and were toasted with the sweetest speeches by family. It was so special to have our two families together in my home town. That night we parted ways until the next time we’d see each other at the altar! I went back home with my parents and slept in my old room. My brother was home from California and we had the original crew of four back together. Then we were ready for wedding day.

A Couple That Dances Together Stays Together

When I heard this couple met and fell for each other while tango dancing, I couldn’t wait to browse the gallery of their love-filled wedding day! Located in the backyard of the bride’s childhood home, this gorgeous garden wedding included elegant white details and a tented reception with pops of vibrant florals designed by Erin McLean Events. The intimate celebration ended the only way it should have, with a tango performance by the bride and groom of course! Browse the entire collection all captured by the talented Anagram Photo.

From Erin McLean Events… The Italian and Southern traditions may not have a lot in common but one thing is warm hospitality and a knack for romance. Elise, a native of Raleigh, North Carolina met Marco, a native of Milan, Italy met tango dancing. Yes,tango dancing, the most romantic dance in the world. Their relationship grew over the love for global adventure, family, and fantastic cuisine. When Marco asked Elise to be his wife, it was quickly decided that they would marry their heritages with the things they loved wrapped into a beautiful evening of celebration. They chose to celebrate their wedding day at Elise’s childhood home in the heart of Raleigh’s historic district, which had been in the family dating back over 65 years, in fact 2017 marked the home’s 100th anniversary, a date not lost on their family.

With this beautiful, quintessential home as the backdrop surrounded by friends and family from all over the world the 2 cultures came together in their appreciation for family, love, and amazing good. Dinner was served under a billowing white tent family style, with the hum of laughter and love floating through the April evening. The party, which was in the midst of Elise’s mother’s meticulously manicured garden, was designed to seamlessly flow with its surrounding. The tent was filled with greenery draped chandeliers and blooms dripping with colors of spring. The poppy was the catalyst for the bright color infusion, which can be found covering the fields of Marco’s home country but can also be found in a painting in the living room of the home Elise and her father before her grew up in.

Elise and Marco surprised their guests with a fantastic tango dance under the stars, complete with a custom made “bridal inspired” tango dress Elise donned. They even had a custom logo created inspired by photo of the two of them dancing tango. The evening was the perfect marriage of not only a much in love couple but also their two world intertwining much like one of their favorite tango moves.

Our Fave Places To Tie the Knot In Buckhead

There’s no doubt that Atlanta’s wedding game is strong, especially if you’re looking to take your celebration a little north to the uptown district of Buckhead. But if you find yourself waffling on just where to say “I do” in this historic locale, no worries. We’re counting down four of our faves to help you out.

Photo Courtesy Of: The Westin Buckhead Atlanta

THE WESTIN BUCKHEAD ATLANTA

Why we love it: With over 30,000 square feet of event space, The Westin Buckhead Atlanta always delivers when it comes to hosting magazine-worthy celebrations. And their talented weddings team, culinary expertise and proximity to all of that fab Buckhead shopping is key to any awesome wedding week or weekend. Plus, we absolutely adore those luxe accommodations. It’s just what you need after dancing the night away with your loved ones.

What you can’t miss: Their reception options. With over 20 venues woven throughout their property, you can celebrate your newlywed status in everything from a grand ballroom to a garden terrace. Urban vibe meets serene green space never looked so awesome.

Photography: Amy Arrington

ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

Why we love it: You know we love a good garden ceremony, and if you’re looking to say “I do” surrounded by lush florals or just steps away from a picturesque pond, you’ve found your winner in the Atlanta Botanical Garden. We’re especially fond of the Alston Overlook with its Midtown skyline views and intimate setting for just 60 of your nearest and dearest. Now that’s romantic.

What you can’t miss: The Rose Garden. It features over 21 varieties of your fave flower and it’s amazing.

Photography: Justin DeMutiis

THE SWAN HOUSE

Why we love it: Put simply, ceremonies at The Swan House are quintessential southern affairs. They’re grand, they’re classic and they’re all sorts of take your breath away dreamy. So are we obsessed? You betcha. And those gorgeous staircases are literally are everything.

What you can’t miss: The museum tours. Guests aren’t allowed to party inside the mansion, but you can offer them tours of all of the beauty before you say your “I do’s.” We absolutely love that.

Photography: Carla Gates

THE ESTATE

Why we love it: Centered in the heart of Buckhead, once you enter the grounds of The Estate, you’ll feel like you’ve literally into another time and place. That’s because these three acres smack-dab in the center of the city are surrounded by tall trees that cocoon you from all of the outside activities. And with outdoor ceremony options that include a beautiful fountain, you’ll be giving your Big Day that historic charm you wanted.

What you can’t miss: The charm and history. This sweet locale won The Buckhead Beautification Award for a reason.

If you’re ready to tie the knot in Buckhead, be sure to visit each of these amazing locales for more information. And don’t forget to contact The Westin Buckhead Atlanta for all of your reception and accommodation needs for an event that is fabulous from start to finish.

9 Wedding Locations You Havent Heard About Yet

We know that finding the perfect wedding venue isn’t always easy, especially if you’re looking for something that totally speaks to you and yours. So today we’re running through a list of nine (yes, NINE) fab venues we absolutely love, so you can find that dream locale. Scroll for some hidden gems you haven’t even heard of.

THE ST. REGIS WASHINGTON, D.C.

Why we love it: Just steps from the White House, The St. Regis Washington, D.C. is the perfect mix of luxe accommodations and upscale wedding offerings – all with a dash of historical charm. You can opt for a cocktail hour in the Italianate revival lobby, or celebrate your “I do’s” in the Astor Ballroom with its hand-stenciled ceiling (an original 1926 decorative feature) and Palladian windows overlooking The Astor Terrace. This place is beautiful, you guys – and it’s no wonder it continues to be named the “Best Hotel for Small Weddings” by Washington Magazine. It’s just that good.

What you can’t miss: The Astor Terrace. Perfect for ceremonies OR receptions, this gem of an outdoor space features a dreamy fountain. Need we say more?

W SCOTTSDALE

Why we love it: Located smack-dab in the middle of Scottsdale’s Entertainment District, W Scottsdale is every modern lovin’ bride’s dream. Think totally chic contemporary spaces (both indoor and outdoor) perfect for celebrating your Big Day, plus amazing accommodations that will make your entire wedding weekend.

What you can’t miss: Their fab W Insider service. It’s concierge plus some with everything you’ll ever need just a push of a button away. Whatever you want, whenever you want it.

LE MÉRIDIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA

Why we love it: Situated just three blocks from the ocean with great access and breathtaking views, plus offering up some awesome amenities for guests (hey there, Bicycle Programme), Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica seamlessly combines a glam spot to say “I do” with all of that laid-back Southern Cali charm we love so much. We’re obsessed with their Pool Terrace receptions, not to mention their chef-inspired catering menus and views of the Pacific Ocean.

What you can’t miss: Their venues. From the Delfina Ballroom to the Terrazza Garden, Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica has you covered when it comes to celebrating in style.

HOTEL COLONNADE CORAL GABLES, A TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO HOTEL

Why we love it: Ideal for those travel lovers who want to say “I do” in complete luxury, the Hotel Colonnade Coral Gables has elegant weddings (and accommodations) down to an absolute science. From their 23,000 square feet of event space to their gorgeous venue options (hello, marble-tiled rotunda) to their talented staff that knows everything there is to know about throwing the perfect wedding, you’ll most definitely be making a statement.

What you can’t miss: Their Make a Green Choice Program. Guests receive a $5 food credit or 500 SPG points just for making the choice to conserve natural resources in their room. We love that.

THE WESTIN CHICAGO NORTHWEST

Why we love it: It’s hard not to fall in love with a setting as pretty as Hamilton Lake and when you add in a climate-controlled tent and fully-renovated guest rooms, you have yourselves one of the prettiest wedding locales in all of Chicago. Plus, the Westin Chicago Northwest also offers up a plethora of indoor + outdoor venue options, customizable menus AND your very own wedding specialist.

What you can’t miss: Their 24-hour room service. (Enough said.)

SHERATON SAN DIEGO HOTEL & MARINA

Why we love it: You honestly can’t go wrong with a San Diego wedding, and the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is the epitome of a perfect SoCal soiree with a gorgeous seaside location and deluxe amenities. Now add in a stunning garden ceremony spot (with marina views) and indoor venue options that are just as cool and you have the perfect place to say “I do.”

What you can’t miss: The Culinary team. They’ve been named “Best Caterer” by San Diego Magazine for 15 years running. Yum.

THE EQUINOX, A LUXURY COLLECTION GOLF RESORT & SPA, VERMONT

Why we love it: You know we can never get enough of Vermont weddings and if you’re looking for the perfect destination spot: this is it. From their three unique venues (Pond Pavilion, Colonnade Ballroom and Meadow House) to the amazing views of the Equinox Mountain and the Taconic Mountain Ridge, The Equinox Resort has everything you’ll ever need for that dream wedding… AND can accommodate anywhere from 80 to 250 guests.

What you can’t miss: The activities. This four-season resort offers up a world of fun-filled adventures, from golfing to skiing to fishing to snowshoeing – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

THE ST. ANTHONY, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, SAN ANTONIO

Why we love it: Four words: Open-air rooftop ballroom. Yep, you can literally dance the night away under the stars. Plus, the St. Anthony has been hosting weddings for over a century, so you know you’re in good hands with their talented staff of event professionals. From their gorgeous rooms to their convenient downtown locale, you won’t be missing a thing.

What you can’t miss: The details. From crystal chandeliers to a winding staircase to theatrical lighting and a 19th Century French tapestry, get ready for some non-stop oohing and ahhing.

THE WESTIN GALLERIA & OAKS HOUSTON

Why we love it: If you’re having a celebration with a lot of out-of-town guests, you can’t pick a locale better than the Westin Galleria & Oaks Houston. Its Uptown location paired with its amazing guest amenities and reception space for up to 1,000 makes it the ideal location for those looking to explore the Galleria neighborhood of Houston. Think shopping, dining and spa-ing the days away. It’s perfect.

What you can’t miss: The Monarch Ballroom. With floor-to-ceiling windows and views of the city, this 24th floor gem is a reception dreamland.

Visit SPG Weddings to find out even more about these hidden gems AND all of the amazing perks of having an SPG Wedding. You can thank us later, friends.

Cute + Quirky Front Porch Southern Wedding

Let me just say any wedding that includes ice cream, bottled soda, backyard games and coral charm peonies is officially the best day ever. Add the design talent of Tre Bella Florist and you’ve got the recipe for Ashley and Brian’s Southern “I do.” It’s cute, casual and perfectly quirky and thanks to Callie Davis of Nancy Ray Photography + Thomas Blake Films we’ve got a full visual recap right at your fingertips. Take a stroll through the gallery and don’t miss the highlight film below!

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/217847643 600 338]

From Callie Davis of Nancy Ray Photography… If I had to describe this wedding in one sentence, it would be “Southern hospitality meets joyful wedding celebration.”

Ashley and Brian incorporated all of their favorite things into their wedding day – backyard games, ice cream, bottled soda, miniature foods and gorgeous coral charm peonies. They were married by one of Brian’s closest friend and Ashley’s grandmother, and joyfully recessed while their guests waved ribbon wands.

From beginning to end, this wedding day was so much fun!

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
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Wedding Dresses

Watters

Willowby Fall 2014

Watters Maids Fall 2014

Wtoo Maids Fall 2014

C20 Mothers 2012 Part I

C20 Mothers 2012 Part II

C20 Mothers Spring 2013

C20 Mothers Fall 2012

Seahorse Spring 2013

Watters Brides Fall 2014

Watters Brides Spring 2013

Watters Brides Spring 2015

Wtoo Brides Spring 2015

Willowby Spring 2015

Watters Maids Spring 2015

Wtoo Maids Spring 2015

Encore Spring 2015

Watters Brides Spring 2016

Willowby Spring 2016

Wtoo Brides Fall 2015

Willowby Fall 2015

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Menswear

Bonobos

GroomShop Spring 2014

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Fall Southern Wedding at a Pinehurst Private Estate

When it came to planning their special day, this couple had three key must-haves. “First, that the wedding takes place somewhere that had personal meaning. Second, that we create a unique experience from our imagination as opposed to a template. Third, that our family and friends feel cared for the entire time,” the bride said. With Erin McLean Events by their side, they accomplished exactly that with a private estate celebration in Pinehurst featuring Jenny Moloney behind the camera. Dive right in to watch this thoughtfully designed fête unfold!

From the bride.. For many brides and grooms, your wedding may be the first big thing that you create together. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to craft an experience that represents your collective personalities and values and celebrates your love.

That’s the perspective Ben and I had when planning our big day. It was a true partnership and we started with a blank slate. From the beginning, we defined a few key things that were important to us. First, that the wedding takes place somewhere that had personal meaning. Second, that we create a unique experience from our imagination as opposed to a template. Third, that our family and friends feel cared for the entire time – we wanted the space we created to feel like a big hug!

With these factors in mind, we decided to have the wedding at a family home in Pinehurst, North Carolina. It’s a special place that we started vacationing to early in our relationship and that we share with our families. Additionally, it offered a completely raw space that got our imaginations working!

We had the ceremony in the Village Chapel and the cocktail hour and reception at the family house – cocktail hour was a mix of indoors and outdoors and the reception was in a candlelit tent with soft, draping fabric. Our overall design approach was along the lines of ‘casual and warm, elegance.’ For all New Yorkers, think about the tavern at Gramercy Tavern and you’ll get the idea.

We strove to create a balance between formal and informal and did so through decisions like having a combination of round, table-clothed tables and long, farm tables with exposed wood. We also communicated the dress as black tie optional which may have appeared interesting to guests given the house is on a farm property!

Our favorite personal touches include: we wrote our own vows (do it! it’s an amazing process to write and deliver and we had them written in hand calligraphy and framed, afterwards); I turned my mom’s wedding dress into a top that I wore to the rehearsal dinner and also wore her veil for the ceremony; and we did a dessert bar with mudslides and s’mores (two of our favorite items).

Just a few pieces of advice for all brides and grooms: First, pay attention to the details as you’re planning and then forget about them the week-of. They really don’t matter when it comes to the big day.

Second, don’t discount how amazing it is to be bringing the most important people in your lives together. Connect with them, yourself, and connect them to one another. With our wedding being a destination, we planned events starting on Thursday, and by the reception came along on Saturday people were new friends and that made for a true party.

Third, plan out a few times throughout the evening to pause and soak it all in. For example, we built it into the ceremony, after I walked up to the altar, to turn around to face our guests and see all of them at once. We also took about 10 minutes to ourselves, after our ceremony exit, before we did photos, and we escaped for a bit after dinner and speeches to enjoy our first mudslide together. It’s true that everything moves quickly but by having these moments to observe, reflect and appreciate it all, you’ll come away feeling like you were present every step of the way.

Three Tips For Looking Completely Natural In Your Wedding Photos

If you find yourself panicking over the mere thought of getting those engagement + wedding photos taken, know that you are not alone. Freeze face happens to the very best of us, and if you’re more than ready to conquer those awkward poses and staged kisses, the uber-talented Bethany Rees of DOLA Photography is here to tell us exactly how it can be done. Cozy on up for a lesson in oh-so-natural wedding photos below.

TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

When it comes to capturing natural images, I love to keep couples moving and doing things, so that they almost forget they are being photographed. Even small amounts of movement can make photos look less posed and stagnant. It’s great when couples are up for whatever I ask, like leading one another through a field or walking quickly together down a set of stairs, trusting that I will always make them look good. Even if they are just standing in one spot for me, I’ll ask them to sway, almost slow dance with each other, so there is always movement. A good photographer knows how to give direction to get natural looking photos out of anyone, no matter what their personality is like.

IGNORE THE CAMERA

My style is also very photojournalistic, so outside of the time we do portraits together, I am constantly scanning the room on a wedding day looking for small moments – glances, laughs, hugs… those are the best candids. Sometimes I even hold my camera up and wait. I can see the photo in my head and I just need something small to happen, or someone to move into the frame to get it perfect, and it happens so quickly that if I didn’t already have my camera ready at my eye, I would miss it! For those photos I need people to ignore me – a lot of times when people see a camera they want to pose or smile, which is great, but normally my favorite candid photos happen when people are just being present, enjoying themselves at the party and ignoring me.

ENJOY YOURSELF

Consider doing something that is just for the two of you. It doesn’t need to be something major, but a small moment or activity together gives an opportunity for me to just document what you’re doing together in an unscripted way. Get coffee, have a glass of champagne together, go off and eat your cake while watching the sunset. Give yourselves extra down time in your wedding day schedule to really allow yourself to relax and for spontaneous things to happen. Those in-between moments are always some of my favorite and the most natural looking photos! For engagement sessions, too, I recommend getting your hair and makeup done so you are feeling fabulous and confident… treat it like you’re going on a fun date!

You want your wedding day to rock, so finding a photog that can ease your mind and help you feel natural in front of the camera is key. Bethany Rees, studio owner of DOLA Photography, is one of those talented photographers, using her years of experience to snap images that are modern, timeless AND gorgeous… and all with an unobtrusive and laid-back style that will sooo put you at ease. We are all kinds of obsessed with her photojournalistic style, and her ability to snap those moments you didn’t even know were happening. Do yourself a favor and contact her today for a wedding album filled with heart-tugging images you’ll cherish for always.

Photography: DOLA Photography

This Couple Survived a Home Renovation During Wedding Planning

I first need to give this couple a round of applause for their impeccably classic style—gorgeous aren’t they? And second, they deserve mad props for planning such a stunning day, with the help of Events by La Fete, WHILE renovating their home. Say what?! I can somewhat relate as my hubs and I purchased a new home the same month of our wedding. But to handle a renovation during the planning process is wild. And apparently their Big Day didn’t suffer at all—just one look at the imagery from Anna Routh and you’ll see what I mean.

From the Bride… Dixon and I met in Raleigh at Campbell Law School in 2011, and were pretty much inseparable ever since. We both practice law in Raleigh and work two floors apart in our office building downtown. We also live in Raleigh. As if wedding planning isn’t enough, Hurricane Matthew threw us a curveball in early October when a tree fell through our new house (we moved in about 11 months prior). This required 4 months of renovation, during which time we lived in an apartment with our new kitten, Jillian. We feel confident that we can survive the challenges of marriage if we can survive an extensive home renovation and wedding planning simultaneously.

I always dreamed of getting married in the Duke Chapel, and it was really a no brainer when it came time to choose our ceremony venue. I come from a long line (four generations) of Dukies. My parents were married in the Duke Chapel, and I was baptized in the Duke Chapel. Dixon has graciously welcomed Duke into his heart and embraced my love for the University, so he didn’t object to the Chapel as our venue (smart man!). Actually getting married in the Chapel was far better than I ever dreamt it could be. The magnitude of the building itself is enough to take your breath away, not to mention the soul shaking organ. Although most brides are probably most excited for the reception, I was most excited for the ceremony. Needless to say, it exceeded all expectations. Another special aspect to our ceremony was the choice of our officiant, Dr. David Burhans of Richmond, Virginia. He married Dixon’s parents at the University of Richmond Chapel in 1981, and has been very dear to Dixon’s family ever since.

The Washington Duke Inn as our reception venue was also a no brainer, and we really never considered anywhere else. My family, friends, and I regularly frequented the WDI while I was a student at Duke, and it has always felt like home to all of us. The feeling was no different seven years post-graduation, and the hospitality and elegance were exactly what we were looking for in a reception venue. The majority of our friends and family were able to stay at the WDI, which was great since convenience and comfort for our guests was a top priority. The Bull Durham Bar was a big hit for March Madness basketball updates and “after-party” drinks. Friday night’s rehearsal dinner and welcome party at The Rickhouse provided the perfect contrast to Saturday night’s formal elegance. We wanted a venue that was very “Durham” and The Rickhouse was just that with reclaimed wood and exposed brick from old tobacco warehouses in Durham. The venue overlooks the original Durham Bulls stadium, which was a nod to both of our families’ love for baseball. Dixon played through high school, the FOB played at Duke, and the FOG played at UVA. The décor included old family baseball photos, decorated baseballs, cracker jacks, Dixon’s old baseball glove, and a fantastic groom’s cake featuring red baseball threads from Edible Art. Our guests got the full effect, as they were able to catch the end of a live game from the patio. It was the perfect way to kick off the weekend.

From the beginning, we knew we wanted our wedding to be a classic, clutter-free, sophisticated black tie affair. We incorporated cherry blossom trees, candles, orchids, and white hydrangeas for a romantic, elegant, and somewhat unexpected twist. The overall goal was to be able to look back at our wedding photos 10-20 years later and not ask “what were we thinking?” To carry out this vision, our save the date and invitation design featured a navy, gold, and ivory palette, classic engraved script, calligraphy, and a gold beveled edge. Playing off of this color palette, we opted for navy tuxes as a modern twist to a classic staple. Bridesmaids wore floor length light gray dresses, which provided a stunning contrast to the navy, as did the flower girls’ ivory dresses and light gray sashes. Although not intentional (truly!), the wedding party attire complimented the color scheme of the Chapel’s stone exterior in the most perfect way. I chose a sophisticated gown by Austin Scarlett with clean lines and no frills. The Monique Lhuillier sash, Vera Wang veil, and lace Manolo Blahnik pumps provided just enough glitz without compromising the gown’s simplistic beauty.

Katie Dunn’s amazing room layout allowed us to creatively fit a lot of people into the ballroom, while also modernizing an otherwise traditional setting. The table layout provided the perfect framework to showcase Kelly Odom’s cherry blossom masterpieces. Another highlight was the escort card table in the gallery outside of the ballroom. Kelly was able to transform an oversized wooden table with white hydrangeas, acrylic risers, and massive glass candleholders. It was a head turning platform that perfectly showcased the classic beauty of navy calligraphy and traditional white escort cards. We modernized a classic five tier ivory wedding cake with an acrylic base, white hydrangeas, and romantic candlelight to bring the whole look together. The first time I talked to Katie, I told her we wanted a formal, but FUN reception/party. With her guidance, we created just that. There was constant energy throughout the night and the band never took a break, playing a variety of genres to please all ages. Their energy was contagious. The dance floor was packed, shoes were off, and drinks were flowing. It was just as we had hoped. We wanted to incorporate family heirlooms as a special touch. I wore my grandmother’s ring on my right hand and pinned a cameo to my bridal bouquet that was used by three generations of women before me.

We will never forget the moment our eyes met as I was walking down the aisle. We purposefully chose not to do a first look to make that moment as powerful as possible – it worked! We experienced a rain shower after the ceremony while finishing up photos. Dixon and I managed to stay dry, as did most of our guests, but it made the tail end of our photography shoot slightly hectic. However, the double rainbow that followed made any weather-related chaos completely worth it! Other favorite memories — Our “sneak peek” of the reception décor before the guests entered the ballroom. It was amazing to see all of our hard work and visions come to life. The ridiculous dance party and amazing band were also absolutely unforgettable. Listening to our loved ones speak so kindly of our relationship and marriage during speeches throughout the weekend was heartwarming.

A Wedding Designed Around a Love of Literature

As you will read from photographer Caroline Lima below, this couple is glowing and radiant in every single way possible. They have a big love, not only for each other, but those in every corner of their lives. And isn’t that what a wedding day is all about? The cherry on the top are the sweet, sweet details—like their guest book made with library-themed cards for their guests to write them messages and put in an old card catalog—fitting for the Bride who happens to work at a library! See more of their day right here.

From Caroline Lima… When I first worked with Courtney and Jon last fall on their engagement session, I was struck by how genuine they are. I think it’s impossible not to be drawn to their kind, calm personalities. We had such a good conversation, strolling through the UNC campus. And as I watched them through my lens, I could clearly see the depth of their feelings for one another. When we parted ways that day, I immediately began to look forward to their Chapel Hill Carriage House wedding. Well, the day finally arrived! And it was every bit as beautiful and special as I knew it would be.

For one, Courtney’s smile is absolutely contagious! She was glowing and radiant, and just like Jon cares so much for the people around her. As her bridesmaids were helping her dress, Courtney took time to tell them she felt honored to have them there. She made all of her loved ones feel as special and important as they really are to her. And so did Jon. It is such a pleasure and a gift to see that kind of love and generosity…and it all starts with the bride and groom.

The ceremony took place at the University Presbyterian Church in Chapel Hill. Before it began, Jon and Courtney exchanged letters and gifts. Watching the emotion on Jon’s face as he read Courtney’s words was so touching. At one point, he broke off and said (obviously to himself) “What did I do to deserve her?” A genuine moment that I will never forget! Later, as he watched his bride come down the aisle, tears welled up in Jon’s eyes. So beautiful! And the surprising part? The deep and true emotion of this wedding transitioned into a very exciting dance floor! This bride and groom can definitely cut a rug! I can’t help but giggle now, remembering how much fun it was to watch them at their reception at The Carriage House! A huge thanks to Kast Events, such a perfect and smooth day!

“Journey of a Lifetime” Travel Themed Bridal Shower

Our girl Shelby of Pretty in the Pines is officially a married lady (!!!) but before we get our hands on her wedding photos, we’re taking a moment to deep dive her travel-themed bridal shower. Take a peek at all the fun moments captured by Olivia Suriano of Nancy Ray Photography and read on for the details from Shelby.

Hi, SMP friends, Shelby here! I’m here today with some photos of a beautiful travel-themed bridal shower one of my Maid of Honors, Sara, hosted for me a few weeks ago. With the help of Lily and Oak and a few other talented Raleigh vendors, Sara hosted an adventurous soiree with some of my closest family and friends before I embark on the “journey of a lifetime”.

I was blown away by each little thoughtful and creative detail for this shower starting with the watercolored map invitations from One and Only Paper. When I first opened up the invitation envelope, I was in awe of the large watercolor map of the world that read “Love is the Greatest Adventure”. I knew then that this shower was going to be one for the books.

The space in the Mims House in Holly Springs, NC was the cutest blank slate to decorate with globes, vintage suitcases, books, old cameras, and other vintage furniture from Greenhouse Picker Sisters. Wild, organic, florals completed the look and brought a more earthy feel to the intimate white and gray space. One of my favorite parts of the party, as usual, was the global-inspired food setup featuring recipes from all over the world including a Mediterranean bar, Mexican appetizers, Southern cuisine, and Asian bites. There is never any shortage of creativity when it comes to Belle’s Catering and I had a hard time deciding between the Mini Taco Bowls, the Mini Pimento BLT Biscuits, the Ahi Tuna Bites, Shrimp Toast, Greek Flatbread, Mediterranean Cous Cous Cups, Mini Cuban Sliders, and the Chipotle Chicken Meatballs so I just filled my plate up with it all!

The shower was in the late morning/early afternoon so there was a coffee and mimosa bar setup when guests arrive and the “food room” was topped off with calligraphy chalkboard signs created by one of my sweet bridesmaids, Meredith, who owns Oaks and Gray Paper. Always thankful for a bridesmaid that also doubles as a wedding vendor!

As we ate the almost-too-pretty-to-eat vintage map cake, we caught up with friends and family, played some funny bridal shower games, opened up gifts, and sipped on mimosas!

These little celebrations along the way leading up to our wedding day have been so special. There is nothing like having a large group of your favorite people all together in one room so I can only imagine how the wedding will feel. If you’re a bride-to-be, my advice to you would be to slow down and soak in each moment you get to celebrate with your family and friends along the way. It is such a special and unique time in life and it passes by so fast.

Thanks for following along and I can’t wait to reveal our wedding photos soon!

Love,
Shelby