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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 Spring Wedding at The Cornealius Properties | Rachel and David

April 20, 2023

Okay, before I say anything…if I had to design a dream wedding day, it would have been Rachel and David’s day. The colors, the feelings, the weather, the florals, the dress, the guests. It was absolutely stunning. All day, Rachel’s reactions to every part of the way was “this is…everything.” Honestly, I couldn’t think of a better way to describe it either!

Rachel and David have been together for 8 years so this day felt like a long time coming. I loved hearing stories about how they met working at the local Piggly Wiggly (stickin’ with the pig!) and going to camp at Cragmont in Black Mountain. David’s demeanor is so calm and sweet and you can just feel the love he has for Rachel.

When he turned around and saw her for the first time, it was maybe one of the best reactions I’ve ever seen. He audibly gasped and then wanted to see every detail of the look she had curated, though I’m pretty sure he would have felt that way even if she had shown up in sweats.

Rachel’s main request for her day was that she wanted it to feel stress-free and relaxed and that’s exactly what we created. There are so many traditions and cute ideas for wedding days but I love when couples choose just a few priorities and then leave space for organic moments. It allows for there to be less pressure which then creates the chance for gorgeous portraits and moments you can be fully present for without rushing to the next one. I can’t emphasize enough how important this is to curating a relaxed day. We ran ahead all day which meant Rachel and David could focus on what mattered most – each other and their guests!

As far as the florals and the portraits…maybe some of the favorites that I’ve ever taken! I feel that way after almost every wedding (and my goal is always to create images that I’m incredibly proud of) but wow, I just love them. I’ll let the images speak for themselves!!

Rachel and David, thank you for asking me to be a part of this journey!!! I can’t wait to see what your marriage future holds. Love you!!

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

Venue: The Cornealius Properties
Florist: Busy Bee Florist
Photographer: Dakota Hersey Photography
Videographer: 85 Film
Planner: The Social South
Hair Stylist: Karli Robbins
Makeup Artist: Bridal By Whit
Caterer: Funky Fresh
Dresses: Carolina Bridal World
Baker: Lexy’s Bakery
Suits: The Modern Groom

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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