We’ve had lot of weddings that were well worth the wait…but Caroline and Ryan’s day? OH MY GOSH. WOW. What an absolute dream!!! I’ve been with them since 2019 (you may remember them from their Washington, DC engagements), and when we had to reschedule their day for 2021 I was counting down the days.

To be honest, I was a little stressed the morning of their day. It called for scattered thunderstorms all day and with a downtown wedding that can be tricky. Thankfully Caroline made sure to have a rain plan in case we needed it AND a vendor team that made navigating any changes so easy. I love that even with my (silent) stress, Caroline let me know that she wasn’t worried at all because she totally trusted me to make it work. THAT’S the relationship I live for!!!

The morning was thankfully not filled with rain but there were no dry eyes!! Caroline was a vision in her dress, and her dads seeing her for the first time was just so sweet. Everyone was in tears. Ryan’s first look at her was no different. He turned around and saw his wife in all her glory and had to walk away to gather himself before coming back to hug her.

As usual, I was very thankful for them choosing to do a first look because we finished some portraits and bridal party photos in record time before any traffic or weather issues arrived. The bridal party was thankful because after the ceremony they headed straight to the trolley to start their party!!!

When we got to the reception at The Melrose Knitting Mill, it was ON. Their band Sleeping Booty was AMAZING!!! After some beautiful first dances, heartfelt toasts by Logan and Shane, delicious dinner and cake, the dance floor opened and it wasn’t empty the rest of the reception! I always love a band because the energy is infectious!!!

Caroline and Ryan, thank you for being so wonderful. I am so thankful I was able to be there for you through this journey and your day was absolutely everything we’d ever wished it could be. I loved spending time with your sweet family and friends and wish we could have this party every weekend!

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

CEREMONY VENUE: 1st Presbyterian Church
RECEPTION VENUE: Melrose Knitting Mill
COORDINATION: Sarah Skrobialowski, Southern Oak Events
FLORALS: Petal and Oak
HAIR + MAKEUP: Updo’s Studio
CATERING: Mulino’s Italian Kitchen
BAND: The Sleeping Booty Band
WEDDING DRESS: Ellie’s Bridal Boutique (Justin Alexander) and BHLDN
SHOES: Bella Belle
INVITATIONS: Alex Daley Designs
DESSERTS: Edible Art Bakery and Dessert Cafe
BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: BHLDN
TRANSPORTATION: Great Raleigh Trolley
LINENS AND RENTALS: CE Rental