This wedding is extra special to me. Being able to serve not only past clients but also my personal friends is a highlight of my career.

I met Brittany when she was a freshman in college and I was a junior. She became a little sister to me, hanging out in my apartment, making me laugh, listening to me when I was upset, and being my number one fan.

Brittany is one of those people who makes you feel so cared for and loved…and she found the exact perfect counterpart in Joesph.

He is just as kind, with a gentle spirit that you can tell just makes Brittany and those closest to him feel safe. Brittany is a cancer survivor and I believe that Anne Marie (Brittany’s maid of honor, best friend, and one of my past brides) said it best in her toast – Joe healed a part of Brittany that cancer treatments and medicine could never.

I couldn’t imagine a better match for someone I care so deeply about.

Their wedding day was perfect in almost every way…though Joe is the younger brother of 3 sisters, so he and his family have had some practice at this! Their planner Lauren and Abigail were on top of every detail, which is SO helpful with a multi-location wedding day in a city! I loved the chance to switch things up and trade the coast for the city and really challenge myself.

They got ready and had their first look in uptown Charlotte at the Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel, before we headed to the Belk Chapel for their ceremony. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house as Brittany and Joe read their personal vows to each other, detailing the ways they fell in love and how they’ve both felt so supported by each other.

Thanks to Lauren, we were able to get ALL of the photos done before the ceremony which meant post ceremony was much less chaotic and…we took some of my favorite bride and groom portraits of all time!!!! I mean…the light! The couple! The brick with the columns!!

Brittany and Joesph will tell you they don’t *love* taking photos but man, these are gorgeous. I love that they are willing to do anything I asked, including hanging out on the steps!! They currently live in D.C. and I think it looks so reminiscent of that architecture.

After I had my moment, we headed back to Kimpton for a full on party – complete with a surprise guest appearance from Sir Purr, the Carolina Panthers’ mascot!!! Brittany was SO shocked and excited!!! The night was spent dancing, posing with Sir Purr, eating delicious sweets, and celebrating with all of the communities that adore Brittany and Joe.

Brittany and Joe, thank you for letting me be a part of your day. I am so thankful I was able to be by your side and serve you, though it would never be repayment for the friendship you’ve brought to my life. I love you!!!

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

Planner: Lauren Petervary, Elle M Events
Ceremony Venue: Belk Chapel at Queens University
Reception Venue: Kimpton Tryon Park
Florist: Mimi Eden Floral Design
Photographer: Dakota Hersey Photography
Videographer: Weddings by LDF
Hair and Makeup Artist: Cali Stott Artistry
Caterer and Desserts: Kimpton Tryon Park
Dress: NY Bride and Groom
Bridesmaids Dress: Azazie
Cake: Celestial Cakery
Suits: The Black Tux
DJ: Discoboxx
Live Artist: Kate Stewart Fine Art
Live Music: Justin Castellano
Invitations: Basic Invite
Transportation: Peak Limo