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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.

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Colorful Beaufort Hotel Wedding in Beaufort, NC | Emily and Colin

October 11, 2024

I have to preface this post with – this wedding is the wedding of my dreams. When I saw Emily’s bouquet (crafted by the talented Bethany with Serendipity Florals) I told Emily that she and I must be soul sisters because they are the exact colors I envision for my future wedding.

Emily and Colin are one of the most fun couples I’ve been able to work with. Emily’s laughing smile shows so much joy and Colin is just here for a good time. So much work was put into this event prior to the wedding day, but when it came time to enjoy it, they both allowed themselves to simply stay present and have fun. I love that that is reflected in their photos.

Their day was FULL of curated details, all planned by the fan-favorite Brittanie with Brittanie Raquel Events. She even went as far as to match the hanging lights with the same fabric pattern as the table cloths!! The blues matched perfectly with the colorful yellow, pink, and coral florals.

It was important to Emily and Colin that they enjoy their photo process, including their family and bridal party! After meeting everyone I’m convinced that there isn’t anything they couldn’t have fun doing, but we were intentional with their timeline to make sure they experienced the day rather than just documenting it.

An example of this was deciding to combine their full bridal party photos with the task of digging up the buried bourbon since I find the photos are more authentic when there’s an “activity.” These may be some of my favorite photos from the day because there’s so much personality – and their bridal party has plenty personality!

When it came time for the party, the dance floor was lit!!! Martin with Active DJ was able to work in TWO Creed songs AND a Nickelback song and we were thriving…especially when he brought out the CO2 canon. It’s just another example of Emily and Colin making their day specific to them and their crowd absolutely loving it.

Congratulations, Emily and Colin!!! I loved spending this day with you and your family and friends. You two are simply the best.


A huge thank you to the vendors who made this day beautiful!!!

Planner: Brittanie Raquel Events
Venue: The Beaufort Hotel
Photography: Dakota Hersey Photography
Video: Lens Life NC
Hair & Makeup: UpDo Studio
Florals: Brittanie Raquel Events
DJ: Martin with Active Entertainment
Catering: The Beaufort Hotel

Cake: Publix
Invitations and Programs: Canva
Bridesmaids Dresses: Revelry
Wedding Dress: White Bridal Boutique
Bride’s Shoes: Betsey Johnson
Groom’s Suit: Generation Tux
Jewelry/Rings: Everly Rings / Manly Bands
Transportation: Diamond Bus Company
Cold Sparks: Atlantic Premier
Officiant: Peggy Combs
Rentals: Martha My Dear
Tent: Party Reflections
Lighting: High Performance Lighting
Live Painter: Ashley Triggiano

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.

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