Okay, prepare yourselves. This is a BIG one.

You’ve seen Payton and Chandler’s faces on the blog a few times – from Payton’s high school senior photos, to her graduating Dental Assisting school, their engagements on Bald Head Island, then their intimate elopement last year, and now their gorgeous big wedding day with their family and friends (on their one year anniversary!).

It is so special to me to join my couples for their biggest day but it’s even more special when I can capture multiple milestones for them. I grow to love and become part of their families, make jokes with their friends, and even start to add them to the Dakota Hersey Couples family too!

It’s truly hard to narrow down my favorite moments from Payton and Chandler’s wedding day.

It started with emotional moments as she got dressed – tears from her mom as she zipped up her dress and giggles as she helped her put on her shoes, remembering how she used to do the same when she was a toddler; Her dad and step-dad both being speechless as she had their first looks with them. Even their pup Murphy had his own first look!! Though he was more interested in getting scratches from his mama, haha.

Last year Payton and Chandler chose to do a private first look where they read their personal vows to each other before their small ceremony. They chose to do the same again this yea. I absolutely loved that they prioritized sharing a private moment before the day really got started and getting to hear words from their hearts to really set the intentions for the day.

Both Payton and Chandler had tears rolling down their cheeks as they professed their love for each other, one they’ve had since they were 13 years old. That’s a lot of love!!!

Once they had renewed their vows, celebrated down the aisle, and took some of the most GORGEOUS portraits ever, we headed into the reception where there was an absolute PARTY happening (though you don’t expect much less with Paul as the DJ!). I loved that they made sure to get tons of posed photos with their guests AND fun dancing ones. Those memories are priceless!

Payton and Chandler – enjoy your honeymoon!!!! (You’re only allowed to get on your phone for this!!!) Thank you so much for trusting me with so many of your memories. Can’t wait for more in the future. Love you two!!!

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

VENUE: Neuse Breeze
FLORALS: Neuse Breeze
VIDEO: Light Cannon Films
HAIR: Kelly Reynolds
MAKEUP: Morgan Richards
SPRAY TAN: The Beaded Burrough
DJ: Generations Moblie DJ Service
WEDDING DRESS: Thornbury Bridal
BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Azazie
INVITATIONS: Workman Creative Co.
DESSERTS: Kim’s Sweet Cakes
CATERING: The Flame
LIVE CEREMONY PAINTING: Brittany Rawls Art
CUSTOM SIGNAGE: Savannah Ivey
GUEST BOOK: After the Tone
OFFICIANT: Michael Sauls