Jenny and Keith
Jenny and Keith said I Do under the Spanish moss at Ameila Grove in New Bern, North Carolina
One of my favorite parts about living in Eastern North Carolina is all the amazing venues situated on waterways. Amelia Grove boasts hundred year old live oak trees and sunset river views, with a private doc to take portraits on. This mansion is more than just a beautiful property, but rich in history, because we love a back story. Check out their website to read more about this historic mansion. Not to mention, this New Bern legend boasts some of the most beautiful sunsets on the river.
Jenny and Keith started off their day in their own prospective suites of the mansion, sipping champagne and laughing with friends. The energy of their wedding parties was contagious. The second I walked in, I felt the love and good vibes. One thing that these two both have in common is their love for whiskey. Rather than sharing a first look before the ceremony, they shared a shot and read letters that each had written to each other. This is such a unique way to share a moment with your partner before saying I Do and keeping to traditions of not seeing each other before the ceremony.
Their ceremony was perfect. They decorated the archway over looking the Nuese River with elegant flowers and fabric, walked down the brick path towards the alter and included their furry friend in the special moment. Every moment was special and thought out, without feeling orchestrated. The delicate dance that this requires is truly an art and their wedding planners did such an amazing job.
We breezed through group photos because these guys couldn’t wait to get to their entrances.. and I can’t blame them, because they surprised guests with a game of FLIP CUP. The ultimate drinking game. Groomsmen vs bridal party and it was a show down. I am not kidding when I say the energy that this wedding party brought to the day was contagious.
I think one of my favorite parts of a wedding day is when I steal the bride and groom away for sunset photos. By now we’ve gotten a good amount of portraits with the two of them, so this is a low pressure situation, but man.. are these photos not always the best!!! You can have all the formal gear in the world, but that soft light at sunset is unmatched. You don’t have to leave your reception for an hour to get formal photos, 15-20 minutes should do, and you will cherish these forever.
I leave you off here with one final tip for the bride.. Always, I mean ALWAYS, ice your groom. The ultimate ice hack is to do it when they’re going for the garter. The face on Keith when he saw it will live rent free in my brain forever.
Happy Wedding Planning, ya’ll!
