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Love at Byron's South End | Alyssa & James

"James and I met in the fall of my freshman year of college. We were both students at Clemson University and went to the same church, so we had a lot of the same friends. That fall break, most people we knew went home for a few days, but since we were both still on campus, we spent most of the long weekend together! After that, we became good friends, and remained so until he asked me out 2 years later. Two years after that, we went back to Clemson to celebrate our 2 year anniversary. James planned a scavenger hunt for me that took us to different places around Clemson that were special to us. Our last stop was by Lake Hartwell to watch the sunset, and it was also where he took me completely by surprise by getting down on one knee and asking me to marry him!"

Ceremony Location: Cathedral of St. Patrick

Reception Location: Byron's South End

Cake: Suarez Bakery Florist: Twigs and Twine Floral Design Dress Designer: Maggie Sottero Dress Store: New York Bride & Groom Shoes: Dune London Tux: Men's Wearhouse Bridesmaids Gowns: BIll Levkoff Hair and Makeup: Dulce Lusso Salon Caterer: Best Impressions Rings: Brilliant Earth DJ: ATG Entertainment Rental Companies: Party Reflections Invitations: Minted Videographer: Trey Yoder

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Love at Elkin Creek Vineyards | Janine + Chris

Janine and Chris tied the knot on October 21, 2017 at Elkin Creek Vineyards. Lets just say, they killed it. From the details, the colors, the FOOD, the music, to the dancefloor, there was so much love in the air. I have never felt so welcomed by family members and guests that I have never met before. 

I asked Janine how her and Chris met, and I smiled so big as she wrote this to me. Such a beautiful story.

"Chris and I met while hanging out with our friends at a bar. He and a friend of mine were playing pool when he mentioned to me that he and I should meet. He introduced us and I paid Chris no attention. I was smoking at the time, and he lit my cigarette for me. I said "thanks" and walked away. Later that even we began to chat a little and he surprised me by speaking Spanish. He said  " Tú eres más hermosa que una puesta del sol".. which means, You are more beautiful than the sunset... That made me smile. 

We parted ways that night. That weekend, our friends set up a Saturday for us to come over their house to hang out. That night, him and I, and my dog Luna, talked all night long". And the rest was history...

Congratulations Janine + Christopher Cox! It was an honor to be there!

(All wedding vendors listed at the end)

Venue: Elkin Creek Vineyards

Cake: Lucky Button Bakery 

Dress Designer: Oleg Cassini

Dress store + Shoes: David Bridal

Hair + MUA: Bride Guide NC

Florist: Watson's Florist

Bridesmaid's Gowns+ Ties: Azazie

Caterer:

DJ: DJ Rick 

Rings: Jared's

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International Love | Susannah + Lukas

From the moment I met Susannah, she had a glow about her. She had a warm, inviting spirit that was just full of love. After meeting Lukas at their engagement session, I understand why. These two have a bond that I have never seen before. After we shot their engagement session, I left feeling inspired and just happy. Lukas is from Switzerland, and resided there their entire relationship, to it was long distance.... Very long. Whenever they get a chance to see eachother in person, it is like aflame you cannot put out. They are so naturally in tune and in love with each other that there was no need for me to tell them to do anything because it was so candidly natural. With it being such a long distance relationship, him being in Switzerland, and her here in the US, I was curious to know how they met. These were her words...

"We met in Nassau, the Bahamas 7 years ago in 2011. We were there for a 4 weeks mission trip to help with Vacation Bible Schools and youth camps. I had been there the year previously and returned for my second summer, it was Lukas first visit. We both continued to return for the same mission work for the next 6 summers and over those 6 summers we fell in love with the country, culture and people all while forming a strong friendship with each other. For a very long time we never considered each other a "possibility" but very gradually interest began to grow. It took spending 6 summers together and then much prayer before we decided to move into a relationship but once we did we both knew this was it and we were engaged 3 months later!" 

Congrats Susannah ad Lukas, Enjoy your new life in Switzerland!

Venue : Firethorne Country Club

Dress Designer & Store: David's Bridal 

Brides Shoes: Guess

Bridesmaid Dresses: Joanna August & Tiffany Rose

Grooms Suit: Mens Wearhouse

Florist: Mother of the bride (DIY)

Hair & Makeup: The Bride

Coordinator: Pam Hart with Firethorne Country Club

Cake Designer; Sister of the Bride

Stationary: Bride Designed invitations, Groom

 Musicians: Wescottage Music

Rings: Allen's Jewelers

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Wedding at Founders Hall Charlotte | Nick + Candice

Nicholas and Candice met during the fall of 2009 and have built an unbreakable bond. They found each other at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte at a time when most look to find which road they will take in life. 

As a freshman, Candice and a few friends attended an event at UNCC, that Nicholas was hosting, which led to a brief encounter with her and Nicholas. Nicholas was pursuant in finding the young lady that he laid eyes on at a UNCC event. They would occasionally cross paths on campus and quickly greet each other. One particular day, as Candice was leaving Sycamore Hall and Nick leaving his classes, they crossed paths again, but this encounter was different. Their first phone conversation lasted for hours and the rest was history. After building a foundation of friendship, they decided to take the next step on February 14, 2011, at a restaurant which is now Studio Movie Grill. Now that they both have graduated and are ready to embark on the path God has set before them, they realized their lives wouldn't be complete without taking that path together. On June 12, 2016 Candice said yes shortly after setting sail to the Bahamas. 

It is rare to find someone with the same goals and ambitions as you and one who loves God and exhibits humility. They found that in each other and solidified their union before God, their families, and friends on July 8, 2017. 

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Elopement Styled Shoot | Craggy Gardens, NC

 Many times whilst in the midst of my busiest seasons with weddings, I have the desire to create. No restrictions, no time schedules, no pressure, just pure ART. In these moments,  I am happiest; at liberty to  be an artist. I was gifted with vision and creativity, and this shoot allowed me to create what I see in my mind. I hope you all love it! Please Share!

I am SO grateful for the amazing team that helped me create this vision, and took that hike up with me in the Asheville Mountains!

Location | Craggy Gardens Pinnacle- Asheville, NC 

Photography | Avonné Photography

Videography | Three Thirty Films

Coordinating | Madison Mosely Events

Florist | August Lily Florist

Makeup | Bailey Upchurch MUA

Hair | Hair By Jordan Tate

Wedding Gown | Mori Lee at Darlynn's Bridal

Models | Preston & Madison Mosely

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Bridals at Ritchie Hill | Eryn Gradwell

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Treehouse Vineyards Wedding | Brianna + Weston

We believe Brianna and Weston are supermodels and they just don't know it yet......

Their story dates back 4 years ago, when a friend of Brianna asked her if she would accompany her and some friends in trip down to Florida for a Duke University Championship basketball game. She went and of course Weston was in the mix. Brianna explained to us that she and Weston didn't talk much before the game, but once they both entered the stadium, "we just hit it off", Brianna says. She explains that they weren't even watching the game because of how much fun they were having with each other. The attraction and chemistry was so strong with these two, that since that day, they have been inseparable and have saw each other everyday since that day. So stinking cute! Now, they have a beautiful son together named Sawyer, who is just so adorable! It was such a joy watching this family of three become one on this day. 

I have known Brianna and her family for many years and they have gave me an honorary place in their family. I have attended many of their family functions, shot a number of their weddings, and have become very close with the daughters of the family. It was an honor for me to be here on this day to document someone who I have called a friend for many years. Brianna has a strength like none other. Her devotion to her family, her health and her relationship with God is extremely admirable and inspirational. On her wedding day, she walked down the aisle to greet her new husband without her father. He passed away earlier this year and it was devastating for everyone. They paid homage to him at the wedding by carrying a bouquet of blue hydrangeas, which we were told was his favorite flower. She carried that bouquet, a blue cloth, and a beautiful charm around her bouquet reminding her that although he wasn't physically here, he was, without a doubt, there in the midst of this day of happiness. This whole day was filled with laughter, happiness, and joy and was one of the most laid back, DIY weddings we've shot. All of her many sisters chipped in and worked together to make this day special for Brianna, from making the cake, to hand crafting the bouquets. We loved it! And that is exactly what Brianna wanted. "I am an untraditional bride, and I just want to be happy", and boy was she happy that day.

We wish you both ALL the best, and we cant wait to see where life takes you! 

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Vendor Spotlight | Three Thirty Films

Today we have a TREAT for you! One of our favorite Videographers took the time to answer a few questions about her business and the intricate world of what being a Videographer entails. Based in the beautiful Queen City, she puts together some of the most stunning reels, and captures such great love stories! Seriously incredible! We are thrilled to introduce Mackenzie Martin of Three Thirty Films

 www.threethirtyfilms.com | IG: @threethirtyfilms

Facebook: @threethirtyfilms

  1. What are some advantages of having a videographer at weddings and events?

In my experience, having video coverage is just as important as having photo coverage. The advantage to video is that you get the movements and motions of the day; the more raw feeling, rather than the posed. You also get to see things happen that you may have missed throughout the day.

2. What made you want to be a Videographer?

I have wanted to make films ever since I was a kid. I asked my mother for a VHS Camcorder for Christmas in 5th grade, and I started making movies immediately. Granted, they were terrible, uncut, and not worth watching for anyone, but I knew I wanted to make movies since then. I grew up loving movies like Jaws, The Birds, and Mary Poppins. I idolized Spielberg and Hitchcock, and I still do. I have just more names to my list. 

3. Where did the name ‘Three Thirty Films’ originate?

The name ThreeThirty Films comes from my favorite verse in the Bible, John 3:30. It states "He must increase, but I must decrease." Simple, but such a great reminder that I'm not doing this for my own gain. I am creating things for the couple. I am creating memories that will be played hundreds, if not thousands, of times over the next few decades. I am creating a capsule into this moment in time, to be frozen and re-lived whenever they want. 

4.What products and services do you offer?

I offer three different packages ranging from 6-hour coverage with a Highlight Film, all the way to 12-hour coverage with a teaser trailer and a longer format Short Film. 

5. How long have you been a professional Videographer?

I have been doing video for a long time, but professionally almost 2 years. 

6. Explain the process of creating  a cinema reel for weddings?

The editing process is long and sometimes frustrating. The one thing I tell everyone is that it takes longer than you would think. On the day, I usually take about 8 hours of coverage between all the clips and stationary cameras. I then bring that into the editing process and scrub through it all, because again, I do not want to miss the slightest moment that matters. I then put it all together in a documentary style film, but then comes the hard part. After the scrubbing, smoothing, color correcting, and cutting of the clips, I bring in the audio from the ceremony. This could range from just traditional vows to excerpts of your officiant, vows, and reception speeches. I then scrub through this audio, choosing the most important words, and overlay them throughout the film to put it on another level. It is a long process, but 100% worth every second. 

7.What inspires your creations?

 I would definitely say that my couples inspire me to keep creating. Whether it be their attitudes on the actual day, or them sending me encouraging words through the editing process. What really makes me smile is when I get their film delivered, and they let me know immediately what they thought. They then share it with their friends, and they put an awesome review online saying how happy it made them and how many happy tears were shed. They are more than clients for me, most of them become constant encouragers and friends

8.What are your favorite type of couples?

My favorite types of couples are the ones that value the importance of video on their day and that want to have fun with it. That really let me take creative moves during the moments of the day, and especially during portraits. 

9.  Whats the best part of your job?

I think the best part of my job is definitely being entrusted to capture this day for awesome couples. They let me take a look into their most important and intimate moments, and I get to experience them with them. It is truly an honor.

10. When should you hire your videographer?

Most people don't think of video first off, but as soon as you have a venue and date booked, reach out! I have had people book almost a year and a half in advance as well as 2 weeks before their day. The more time we have to get to know each other, the better! 

11. What are some fun facts about Mackenzie Martin?

Fun facts about me. Hmm. I already said how much of a movie nerd I am. I am working on some pretty cool projects outside of weddings in the next few months, and I am really exercising that part of my heart. I also am obsessed with Harry Potter. I also am a huge fan of Broadway musicals and 90's Pop & Hip-Hop. I watch a TON, and I mean a TON, of YouTube videos -- anything from visual podcasts to daily vlogs to someone calling in sick from jobs they don't have. I just love watching the range of content put out into the world, and their "why's" behind it. 

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Best Venues for Bridal Sessions | Charlotte

We love to shoot bridal sessions! They give us more time to spend with our brides and make sure they feel as beautiful as ever. Many brides love the outdoorsy garden look which we love. However, for many reasons, our bridals sessions require us shooting inside, and it sometimes requires some research to achieve a look fit for a bridal session, while shooting inside. 

With the many bridal sessions that we shoot, we have come up with four venues we have worked with that are incredible options for indoor bridal sessions. Each of these venues, are FULL of beautiful window light, big rooms, and groomed gardens that will give you the stunning bridal portraits you want. Below are our four favorites!

 Ritchie Hill

Ritchie is by far one of our favorites! The amount of window light you get from this place is breathtaking and its 'Old Vintage house' feel makes this venue stand out from the rest. What we love most about Ritchie Hill is that although this place has an old vintage feel, you don't necessarily go with the old vintage look. This house compliments a variety of different styles. Not to mention the staff is incredible. We just love Ritchie Hill. Contact this place for your next bridal session, you'll be in great hands.    *click photos to enlarge*

391 Union St S Concord, NC              704-975-5088                   IG: @ Onritchiehill

 The Duke Mansion

All we can say is REGAL REGAL REGAL. This place is just sheer gorgeous. The Duke mansion, on top of being one of the most sought of wedding venue, has 20 individually decorated guest rooms so you can sleep over night in luxury. Its massive botanical courtyard is to die for, as well as their signature, checkered floors throughout the hall. It also has incredible window light in just about every room for that grand regal feel. I highly recommend this place and it was such an incredible pleasure shooting here. *click photos to enlarge*

400 Hermitage Rd Charlotte, NC                  704-714-4400                IG:@ dukemansion

Separk Mansion

This place is breathtakingly gorgeous. Located in Gastonia, Separk Mansion, has the perfect blend of  Regal and botanical. They have one of most beautiful bridal suites we have ever seen and also compliment multiple styles of photographers from the light and airy to the dark and moody. Separk is the place to go for multiple options with indoor and outdoor components of a bridal, wedding, or an engagements. There are huge windows throughout to surely give you the window light, dreamy look you want. Absolutely love Separk Mansion. *click photos to enlarge*

209 W 2nd Ave Gastonia, NC                           704-266-0014                                        IG: @separkmansion

The Dairy Barn

 The Dairy Barn is so underrated in our opinion. This place is just absolutely gorgeous and the amount of things you can do here is incredible. The outdoor grounds of the Dairy Barn are so breathtaking that it make you want to shoot every couple here. There are so many hidden places off of the trail that have so much character that even if you were to shoot all of your clients here, each session would look completely different. Inside the dairy barn, you have such variety for your bridal session whether you want something more dramatic and dark, or light and dreamy. Their dark ceremony hall upstairs is a moody photographers dream with its two incredibly large windows. Such a picturesque venue all around. *Click photos to enlarge*

288 Dairy Barn Ln  Fort Mill, SC                             803.547.1169                                FB: Dairy Barn at Anne Springs Close Greenway

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Love at Blue Ridge | Vanessa + Joseph

Vanessa and Joe are a forced to be reckoned with! Their love for eachother is so strong and vibrant that anyone can see it a mile away. These two high school sweethearts have had love for eachother since day one and it has been growing ever since.

Their engagement session was a definite adventure to say the least with all of us getting lost and finding the nearest scenic spot to shoot. It was bitter cold and the wind was brutal but it didn't stop us! We had a exciting adventure and it was full of laughs! They tied the knot on June 23, 2017 at the Riverwalk Landing in Wilmington,NC and I am so stoked to share their wedding day blog soon!

More mountain couples please and thanks!

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Vendor Spotlight | Joely Lane Lettering

Today we have a TREAT for you! One of our favorite calligraphers  took the time to answer a few questions about her lettering business and the intricate world of what being a letterer entails. Based in the beautiful Queen City, she puts together some of the most intricate, and fancy creations that we have ever worked with. Seriously jaw dropping! We are thrilled to introduce Nicole Padgett of Joely Lane Lettering!

IG: @Joelylanelettering

E:  joely.lane.lettering@gmail.com

   1. What are some advantages of having lettering signs at events?

I think having hand lettered pieces at events adds a uniquely personal touch. A lot of the time, I'm asked to create more than one piece for a wedding and it creates a cohesive feel to the ceremony and reception. There is something special about having a piece hand lettered, it brings an originality to each item that you wouldn't have if it were printed or a standard font were used. 

2. What made you want to be a calligrapher?

I've always been an artistic soul. I took art lessons and believe it or not, real calligraphy lessons when I was very young! Although modern calligraphy is more on trend today, I do feel as though it aided me when re-teaching myself how to hand letter. I am naturally a very anxious person. Just like the popular trend of coloring to reduce stress, this is what hand lettering does for me. I can almost escape into whatever piece I'm working on and my brain only focuses on that one thing. Its very relaxing and almost therapeutic for me. 

3. What products to you offer?

Some of the more popular items are:

-Wedding Timeline Signs

-Seating Charts

-Food & Bar Menus

-Bible Verses/Quote Signs

-In Memory Of Signs

-Mr. & Mrs. Signs

-The Bride & Grooms new last name & Date

-Addressing Envelopes for Wedding Invites

I don't like to say no to any project. I am open to discussing any piece my clients may be interested in! I make an effort to create the vision in your head and bring it to life to the best of my ability. I'm always in awe of the creativity of my clients!

4. How long have you been a professional calligrapher?

I've been a calligrapher for just under a year now, but plan to do this for as long as clients need me!

5. Explain the process of creating custom stationary?

Communication is key! I stay in contact with my clients constantly when hand addressing envelopes. I discuss with them what style they prefer, if they like a more whimsical feel, or more structured. How large or small they like the font, if they want it to cover more of less of the envelope, etc. I like to send them a physical proof of the envelope beforehand just to be sure they absolutely love it! 

6.What inspires your creations?

I get most of my inspiration from following other calligraphers and hand letterers on social media. Seeing how amazing their work is, motivates me to always try different techniques and fonts to further my self teaching. Sometimes sitting down with a pen and a blank piece of paper is all the inspiration I need. I love to doodle and write song lyrics, verses, names and numbers to practice and add more flow and flair to my own style of writing. 

7.  Whats the best part of your job?

I love being able to create something different with each bride or client and make them happy. The latter is my absolute favorite part! When I'm able to see the clients face after handing them their final product, it makes me SO happy that they're happy. I truly enjoy playing a part in their special day, no matter how big or small. 

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Deer Pond Plantation | Kiana + Chris

Kiana and Chris met freshman year of high school when the infamous Myspace was the go-to social media site. They across each other on myspace and realized they both went to the same school. They also realized that it just so happened that they had the same lunch period during the second semester. Once they realized this, Kiana went and sat in front of him and Chris’s friend Ryan, introduced them. They have been together ever since for a total of 10 years. They just tied the knot on June 10, 2017 at Deer Pond Plantation.

Venue: Deer Pond Plantation

Dress Designer & Store: Dress- Justin AlexanderStore- Darlynns

Bridesmaid Dresses: David's Bridal

Grooms Tux: Vera Wang (Mens's Wearhouse)

Groomsmen Tux: Vera Wang

Hair: Royalty Beauty Bar

Makeup Artist: Tiana Hill (iartfaces)

Cake Designer: Cheesecake Etc.

Ring brand: Jered's

DJ: George Watson

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Vendor Spotlight! |Blooming Branch Creative

Today we have a TREAT for you! One of our favorite floral designers took the time to answer a few questions about her floral business and the intricate world of what being a florist entails. Based in the beautiful Queen City, she puts together some of the most creative, expressive arrangements, that we have ever worked with. Seriously jaw dropping! We are thrilled to introduce Chelsea Cote of Blooming Branch Creative!

www.bloomingbranchcreative.com | instagram: @bloomingbranchcreative

 email: bloomingbranchcreative@gmail.com

1. What are some advantages of having real florals, as opposed to unreal?

This is certainly related to your preferences, but in my opinion, there is not silk flower in the world that compares to a real bloom. Natural beauty simply cannot be replicated or manufactured, and I think there's something so special about that. I love working with raw materials straight from our Creator, and knowing He made so many different types of exquisite flowers in all shapes, sizes, and colors to enhance and enrich our lives and our celebrations at their peak of beauty. What a gift! 

2. What made you want to be a florist?

Almost two years ago, one of my best friends from college was planning her wedding, and asked me if I would be willing to design all of the flowers. I was intimidated - I loved creating beautiful spaces and tablescapes, but I'd never done anything with flowers before, much less for something so important. Ultimately, I'm so fortunate and thankful she had faith in me and my abilities! Little did I know that in her tiny apartment surrounded by ranunculus and dusty miller, I would find something I was so passionate about. I spent two happy days assembling and designing, surrounded by the most beautiful blooms and feeling so creatively stimulated. The only thing that surpassed that joy was the fact that I got to hand my designs over to someone I loved so much on one of the most special days of her life. It was an honor to create those elements for her, and I will never forget that weekend. After that I knew I wanted to continue designing, and several other friends were gracious enough to allow me to design their weddings as I built my portfolio. From there, I slowly developed the other arms of my business, including event design and management (which I've been doing for years), and curated rentals. I'm continuing to learn and hope that I will always be, but I'm so thankful for the road (and the people!) that have gotten me to this point. 

3.What comes with you on a wedding day?

Physically, a myriad of tools - tape, wire, floral pins, spritz bottles, paper towels - the essentials. More than likely a trusty assistant, who often happen to be my wonderful (and patient!) Mom or boyfriend. I always have an "emergency" bag and extra blooms in the event that another boutonniere is needed, an arrangement gets dropped when being placed, etc. More than that, however, I bring a true passion for flowers, painstaking attention to detail, a commitment to excellence (if I'm not happy with a design, I start over), and a very personalized product. Every element of a wedding is an investment from and a part of the client's vision, and I work extremely hard to remember and reflect that in my work. And finally, relationships are so valuable to me. I want my clients to be friends, and I want to be work with them for all of the celebrations in their lives. I aim to build that and get to know their own personal styles so that I can best design with them in mind. 

4. How long have you been a professional florist?

I've been designing for nearly two years, but an actual professional for about a year. My hope is that I can continue doing this for years to come! 

5. What inspires your creations?

I'm particularly captivated by unique blooms and color palettes that aren't necessarily the standard ones you see on Pinterest over and over. I maintain that all flowers are beautiful, standard or otherwise, but I think floral designs can be so artistic when we step outside of the norm. Floral design is ultimately art - every person creates differently. Just as an artist paints or sculpts from her own perceptions, I do my best work when I can freely create, rather than copying a picture of an arrangement.  I almost always design while listening to my favorites - Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, etc., which I find always make me feel inspired. 

6.What are your favorite type of arrangements?  

I prefer to create more wild, organic designs because I think they better reflect the beauty of the blooms by keeping them in more of a natural setting. I most enjoy designing the bridal bouquet because that's when I can use the best stems to create something extraordinary and unique. I love thinking about the bride holding it throughout her day and what (I hope!) it will mean to her. 

7. Whats the best part of your job?

The floral wholesaler! Walking around their cooler and seeing hundreds of spectacular blooms is a literal (albeit chilly) dream! Ultimately, though, I love working with brides and being a part of such a special moment in their lives. I love being surrounded by flowers. I love doing something that stimulates me so much as a creative. There are too many things to choose just one - it's a dream job!  

 8. When should I hire my florist?

Ultimately if you have a particular florist in mind, as soon as possible to prevent schedule conflicts. That being said, I like to have a firm order set at least two months in advance of your wedding date, and it usually takes a couple of conversations and proposal edits to get there. Personally as a Type A planner, sooner is always better in my mind, but I'd say it's important to have a contract signed no later than three - four months in advance of your wedding date. 

 -Chelsea Cote, Blooming Branch Creative 

http://www.bloomingbranchcreative.com/ | email: bloomingbranchcreative@gmail.com | Instagram : @bloomingbranchcreative

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Dine and Dash | Willie and Jasmin

Willie and Jasmin were so fun to work with. They were full of laughs, jokes, and funny stories, which made photographing them a breeze. Such genuine, youthful love, these two.

Willie and Jasmin met online. Jasmin wasn't really having it when Willie reached out to her and pretty much gave him the cold shoulder. He persisted, making his presence known to her and when she finally gave in, they have been together ever since. Jasmin told me that one of their favorite things to do was to get ice-cream together so we came up with the idea of shooting their engagements at a 50's Diner and boy, was that a good choice!

Thank you to Midnight Diner, for allowing us to shoot in your restaurant, the gardens were taken at Freedom Park.  Yay for love!

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A Day in England, Part I | Rhuddlan Castle

Now that I am finally beginning to get around to my month long adventure in England, I can finally share the wonderful things my eyes feasted on over there.

We hit the ground running with none other than the Rhuddlan Castle in Rhuddlan, Denbigshire, Wales. A massive architecture built after the first Welsh War from 1277-1282. Yes, you read that right, this massive beauty was built in just 5 years! 

Thomas, my wonderfully English boyfriend/tour guide and I, went on a muggy, rainy day to see what this castle was all about. When we pulled into the parking lot, my mouth literally dropped to the floor and I shrieked (one of many, trust me). I seriously couldn't believe my eyes. All that was going through my head was what kind of photos I was going to take and I was over the moon excited. In it, I was OBSSESED with the architecture, the character, the history, and every quality it had- even what seemed to be the 5 million stairs we climbed to the top,haha. I was so inspired by everything here and the coolest part is that we were the only ones there.

After we left Rhuddlan, we came across an abandoned ship. Covered in graffiti, and sand, I just HAD to stop. I absolutely love random finds like this.

These were just two of the many wonderful places I visited while in England and I can't wait to share the rest. 

Thank you for tagging along on this journey with me. Stay tuned for Part II, NessGardens.

Heading to Wales anytime soon? Rhuddlan is THE place to go.

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Newly the Murdocks | Justin + Ashley

Everyone, meet Ashley and Justin Murdock, aka, the most fun couple EVER!

Justin and Ashley first met on a double date — but not as each other's dates. Yes, you guessed it, they were the other couples date!  After that night, they didn’t talk again for two and a half years, until Justin messaged Ashley on Facebook. Via text message, Justin asked Ashley out on a date to Duckworth’s Grill & Taphouse. At first, Ashley was hesitant having only known him briefly from so long ago but she did. Ever since that night they were together ever since. In November of 2015, Justin suggested he and Ashley go for a walk in a park. During their walk, Justin barely said three words until they were heading back towards their apartment. He then dropped down on one knee and before he could even finish asking “Will you marry me?,” Ashley blurted out, “Are you serious?!”, “Yes!.”as happy tears stroll down her face.

On August 27, 2016, Ashley and Justin Murdock stood before all of their closest friends and family at the beautiful Siler Presbyterian Chapel, the same one in which Justin grew up, and vowed to love each other forever. 

Their wedding was so wonderful. It was filled with emotions, touching moments, and love. My favorite part of it all was to see the relationship that Ashley has with her dad..Ashley's father is battling lymphoma for the third time, and seeing her weep as he turned to see his little girl, left NO dry eye; including me. Although it rained torrentially that day and was ungodly warm, Justin and Ashley definitely had an incredibly heartwarming wedding where love was prevalent from everyone in attendance. I was so honored to be a part of their day.

All the best wishes to the Murdocks!

Venue (Ceremony): Siler Presbyterian Church, 

Venue(Reception): The Ballroom at Monroe Country Club,  Bride’s gown: Jewel at David’s Bridal Bridesmaids’ dresses: White by Vera Wang at David’s Bridal Hair stylist: Lia Baudoin Watson of Carmen Carmen Salon Makeup: Ann Marie Ball Groom’s & groomsmen’s formalwear: Men’s Warehouse Invitations: Zazzle Flowers: Harrisburg Florist Catering: Creative Food Concepts Music: Spintastic Sound Decisions Second Photographer: Katie Mayfield

Cake: Theresa Scott

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Just finished and delivered this beautiful session from yesterday with Shannon and Camden