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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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Summer Wedding at Rose Hill Estate | Kalli and Colby

July 16, 2024

Rose Hill has always been a dream venue of mine. The big columns on the porch, the bright bridal suites, the feel of being in a home on a wedding day…it’s so beautiful. 

I couldn’t imagine a more perfect day or place for Kalli and Colby’s wedding. 

The upstairs of the house was filled with country music while we photographed the bridal details, and then asked Kalli’s mom and sisters to help her get dressed. Of course mom is a must when putting on the dress but I love when the sisters get involved too. We invited in Kalli’s dad for his first look and it was a beautiful family moment, with the girls tearing up watching across the room.

I thought that was emotional until we set up for Colby’s first look. His love for Kalli is so genuine. They took a few minutes to themselves, giggling and trying to wrap their heads around the fact that it was really happening!! 

After the ceremony and family photos, we took our newly wed photos and they headed inside to cool down (a must for a June wedding!). Inside the reception hall, Alyson and Brushed By Bec created a gorgeous space, filled with blue and white florals cascading over the mantel and tables. I was in heaven!! 

While the dance floor was open, after heartfelt toasts from their families, I learned of a (somewhat unfortunate hahah) wedding tradition of Colby’s family. Apparently it started a few years ago where the cousins would decorate (read: destroy) the newlyweds car. Well, Colby’s car is his baby and he kept the keys under lock which gave them no other choice but to attack the outside. Thankfully no paint was scratched and the groomsmen made sure it was functioning enough to let them drive away at the end of the night. 

Kalli and Colby, thank you so much for asking me to be a part of your day! It’s been so sweet to join your family for so many milestones, and I can’t wait for more! Congratulations!!

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

Planner: Alyson Jean Events
Venue: Rose Hill Estate
Florist: Brushed by Bec
Photographer: Dakota Hersey Photography

Hair: Jessica Horsley
Makeup Artists: Jennifer Strickland
Catering: Rocky Top
Cake: Hannah Cakes Bakery
Dress: Carolina Bridal World

Shoes: Amazon
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Jewelry & Rings: Selma Jewelry
Groom’s Suit: Carolina Bridal World

DJ: Joey Warren
Invitations: The Knot

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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