Blowing Rock, Bride & Groom, Romantic, Weddings

What can I say about Lauren & Matt’s wedding that doesn’t bring a tear to my eye? These two got married on April 28th at the Inn at Crestwood in Blowing Rock, NC. The weather cooperated and spring decided to finally make an appearance on their big day!

The day began with Lauren & Matt surrounded by friends before they went into the traditional prenuptial hiding. With no attendants or wedding party, this allowed for a free-flowing of friends popping in to check on the bride getting ready and ensuring all the details were ready to go. Lauren’s bouquet from Park Place florist was adorned by an embroidered piece from Lauren’s mother’s wedding dress—a sentimental detail executed with simplicity and sincerity.

Lauren was a stunning bride and her cheerful personality made her glow on her wedding day <3

Friend and family began to gather on the back patio at Crestwood before descending to the lawn for the ceremony. I loved how having no wedding attendants at the altar really focused attention on the wedding couple. I was able to capture alllllllll of the emotions when Lauren’s close friend performed an original piece for the couple. I adored the intimacy of this ceremony with the backdrop lined with Italian cypress and a floral design adorning the arbor and no other distractions—all eyes were on the bride & groom.

Crestwood’s patio is my new favorite spot for photographing first dances!

Lauren really emphasized the importance of candids at her wedding. She wasn’t concerned with details and posed shots as much as she wanted me to capture the conviviality of her guests and reception. Thus, I spent the afternoon lying back and watching the festivities unfold. I LOVE how many great moments I was able to capture between Lauren & Matt and their joyous wedding guests.

Okay let’s talk for one second about this next set of photos… So about midway through the reception, large Tupperware containers came out and two guests began to pull out an assortment of what looked like photo booth props. I looked at Lauren, who said, “I have no idea what’s about to happen.” (?!!?) I positioned myself up front and waited. Three of Lauren’s closest friends and travel companions performed a full-on choreographed dance commemorating their various travels abroad. We are talking about dance moves, outfit changes and props to the likes of “Thank You For Being a Friend” (the Golden Girls jingle) and “No Diggity”. Dedicated to the strong bonds of their friendship, these ladies (and their male companions) put on a show for the newly married couple that left everyone laughing until they cried. Such. A. Perfect. Wedding. Surprise.

I’m so thankful to have been a part of Lauren & Matt’s wedding day and have the opportunity to shoot so many amazing candids as a true documentarian wedding photographer. Congrats again to Lauren & Matt!