Explore the blog

hello!

I’m Dakota, a Wilmington, NC-based photographer helping engaged couples feel comfortable in front of the camera and creative businesses grow with purposeful brand imagery.

Vlog Favorites

Looking for Something Specific?

weddings

weddings

seniors

Classic Fall Wedding at The Washington Civic Center | Grace and Brandon

December 4, 2021

Wow, my FINAL wedding of 2021!!!! It was the most beautiful way to wrap up this year. Grace and Brandon are so incredibly sweet and totally in love with each other, so it makes serving them so fun.

Grace and Brandon chose to get married overlooking the Washington waterfront, the same view they will have from their first home together. I love when we’re able to have ceremonies in sentimental locations. It was a gorgeous fall day with warm sun shining down and all of their best friends and family there to watch.

The day started with Grace getting dressed with two very emotional first looks with her dad and her grandpa. She makes a stunning bride so I don’t blame them for their tears!!

We headed to a nearby park for their first look and bridal party photos. Brandon couldn’t stop hugging and looking at her when he was finally able to see his bride! Some of my favorite photos are the in-between moments where Grace is fixing his bow tie and he’s spinning her around like a princess. On a busy day where you are celebrating with so many people having a moment just to yourselves is so special.

The day was filled with so much goodness – gorgeous horse carriages, a bridal party that was so helpful and fun, a ceremony that truly celebrated their love for each other and Jesus, and then a CELEBRATION fit for the start of their marriage!!! The dance floor was non-stop since it opened and they danced until no one could dance anymore.

Brandon is a huge shagger and I love watching him twirl his bride around the dance floor to beach music. It was so “them”!!!

Grace and Brandon, thank you so much for inviting me along this journey with you!!! From save the dates, to engagements and bridals, to the wedding day, I had SO much fun with you. Your marriage is truly one that will make this world a better place. Congratulations!!!

Thank you to the wedding vendors who made this day beautiful:

VENUE: Washington Civic Center
FLORALS: Your Perfect Day
HAIR AND MAKEUP: Shanira Caceres
DJ: DownEast Entertainment- Butch Oliver
WEDDING DRESS: Thornbury Brides
BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Bill Levkoff
GROOMSMEN SUITS: Russells Of Washington
INVITATIONS: The Knot

DESSERTS: Around The Table
CATERING: Georgia Deans Restaurant & Bar

Signage: Madison Grace Works of Art
Bridal Accessories: The Simply Stated Shop
Trolley: Jolly Trolley NC
Spray Tan: Southern Soleil

hello!

I’m Dakota, a Wilmington, NC-based photographer Helping engaged couples feel comfortable in front of the camera and creative businesses grow with purposeful brand imagery.

Looking for Something Specific?

Vlog Favorites

Search

seniors

How to Choose Your Senior Photographer

weddings

weddings

How to Plan a Proposal with a Photographer

The Conversation You MUST Have With Your Bridal Party

Reader Favorites

a few

a few

Reader Favorites