May was a great month for weddings. It’s always special when your friends get married, and it’s even more special when your friends honor you with a place in their wedding. What makes an even better month? Two friends getting married! I got to serve as a reader in a wedding at the beginning of May, and a bridesmaid in one at the end of the month. Sandwiched in between those two fantastic days were two gorgeous, fun, and sweet weddings.
Courtney and Preston
Courtney and I have been friends since college - Go Tigers! - and it was so amazing to go from hearing about her first date with Preston, to seeing them say their wedding vows. The two said “I do” in Winston-Salem and then danced the night away at Winmock. Courtney made her OWN place cards for guests by hand-lettering magnolia leaves. She is seriously talented. Their wedding was so classically beautiful, which fits Courtney so well. The only bummer about the day was that I had to leave early because my baby was only 8 weeks old AND even though the dance floor was calling my name, I love that little girl, and she loves sleep. I did however, miss some serious dance moves later on in the night - good thing I had my fresh Krispy Kreme favor to keep me smiling on the way home!
*Special thanks to my in-laws who drove with us to Winston-Salem just to hang out with baby girl while we were at the wedding!
Photos: Katheryn Jeanne Photography
Jeni and Blair
Jeni and Blair are relaxed, fun, and down to Earth. They got married and had their reception at 10 Catawba, a funky warehouse with exposed brick and a grand staircase. Jeni wanted beautiful florals and an awesome ceremony backdrop, and Blair + Party Blooms delivered (yes, the groom MADE the ceremony arbor which we repurposed during the flip as a backdrop for the sweetheart table).
The most unique thing about Jeni and Blair’s wedding was their photos. The couple did a first look, but not when you’d expect it. They did a first look a few weeks BEFORE their wedding and had a full photo session at Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens. On their wedding day, they did another “first look” but didn’t have to worry about fitting in all of the portraits. So… what did they do with some of the extra time before the ceremony? They enjoyed the bar! (I told you they were fun :)
Photos: Katheryn Jeanne Photography
Emily and Robert
Emily and Robert put together a wedding from all corners of the Carolinas. Photographer from Asheville, caterer from Winston-Salem, Florals from Mooresville, Rentals from Charlotte, and the list keeps going. Everyone came together, though, for an absolutely BEAUTIFUL wedding at Raffaldini Vineyards. (seriously, check out the view from this venue- it’s only helped by the stunning decor Emily picked out- and it’s fantastic).
The bride and groom were just the sweetest together. The whole night felt like such a genuine celebration of love for Emily and Robert. From the Father of the Bride’s emotional speech, to the sunset photos, to an exit full of cheering guests, it felt like you were surrounded by family.
Kelly and Chris
Speaking of family, Kelly and Chris are both members of my Clemson family, and it was such an honor to be a bridesmaid at their wedding. They got married at one of the most picturesque venues, Swan Harbor Farm, on the Chesapeake Bay. We got in all photos done pre-ceremony before a big storm moved into the area. We called an audible and the ceremony was held under the reception tent with the back open so you could still see the beautiful willow trees and the bay in the background.
They say rain is good luck on your wedding day - and if it is, then Kelly and Chris should have a lifetime of luck together. While it may have kept sprinkling all night, we didn’t worry too much about it as we ate, drank, and danced the evening away under the tent. The night ended with all the Clemson grads jumping around to Tiger Rag (it was wonderful!).
*And a special shout out goes to my mom on this one. She made the drive up to Maryland with us and loved on our little Josie so we could enjoy the wedding!
Photos: Sarah Price Photography
Video: Swehland Productions
Seriously, there is SO much amazing wedding inspiration in this post. Enjoy!
All the best,
Libby