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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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Pearl and Blue Fall Wedding at Bakery 105 | Haley and Jennings

September 29, 2023

Haley and Jennings are just one of those couples that are an absolute blast to be around. I’ve known Haley since her freshman year of college and I was so excited to be asked to photograph her wedding, especially after photographing with her best friend Mary’s wedding a couple years ago.

Not only are Jennings and Haley incredibly easy to work with but they have gorgeous style. Haley’s vision for the wedding was elegant, timeless, with whites and greenery, touches of blue and pearls throughout. I mean…obsessed!!! That vision paired with Sarah Ann’s planning and design it was a guaranteed gorgeous event.

Everything was planned to a T, all of the pieces in place, and then…enter in Tropical Storm Ophelia.

There’s always a risk with September being hurricane season but I honestly felt really relaxed and prepared going into this day knowing that it would still be all they had hoped for. That’s the benefit of having a team of true professionals!! We had a plan, came equipped with clear umbrellas, and created magic rain or shine.

Jennings was waiting in place at the end of the aisle when Sarah Ann and her team walked Haley over for their first look. She couldn’t hold back tears just from seeing the back of him. It was finally real!!! It was so sweet to watch the two of them see each other for the first time and allow all of the nerves to wash away.

Haley is really close with both of Jennings’ brothers Chase and Colby so they did a quick little “first look” that was SO fun. Seeing both of them in awe of Haley and hyping their brother up was the perfect moment.

We did have to work to create some beautiful images before the wind and rain really picked up. Thankfully their bridal party was totally down to get the photos we needed while still making it fun, and we used the tent to our advantage to still get the green outdoor look while staying dry!

One of the things I am the most proud of is the portraits we took post ceremony where I only had a door and an awning to work with. Haley really really wanted photos that highlighted the greenery look of Bakery 105 and I wanted to deliver for her! I’m thankful for couples that trust me and planners help me get what we need to make everyone happy with their photos.

The rest of the evening was a true party – a beautiful ceremony, a buzzing cocktail hour, delicious dinner, and a packed dance floor!!! I love love love a band because they keep all of the guests on the floor, regardless of their age or music taste. Port City Shakedown killed it, playing classics and some unexpected recent hits too!

The storm kept us from having a private last dance and sparkler exit but honestly I loved how the night ended – everyone on the dance floor together enjoying the last song, giving hugs, and successfully getting everyone to the after party.

Haley and Jennings, I just love y’all!!!! I wish we could have this party every weekend. I can’t wait to see you and Georgia girl again soon. Congratulations!!!

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

VENUE: Bakery 105
COORDINATION: Sarah Ann Weddings and Events
FLORALS: Serendipity Floral Designs
HAIR & MAKE-UP:
Beauty Crew Mobile
BAND: Port City Shakedown

VIOLINIST: Dockside Strings
CATERING: 128 South
CAKE: Pink Baking Co.
WEDDING DRESS: Coastal Knot
BRIDE’S SHOES: Sam Edelman
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Show Me Your Mumu
GROOM’S SUIT: Men’s Warehouse

GROOM’S SHOES: Cole Haan
JEWELRY & RINGS: Diamonds Direct and Fink’s Jewelers
WEDDING DRESS ALTERATIONS: CC Bridal Atelier
VEIL: CC Veils
BRIDAL BOUQUET WRAP: AHA Designs

KOOZIES: Rubi and Lib
LOUNGE RENTAL: Martha My Dear
RENTALS: Party Suppliers
LIGHTING/EDISON BOARD: Event Excellence

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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