Haley and Matt are two of the kindest, sweetest and most thoughtful people I’ve ever worked with, and I was so excited for their Washington Duke Inn wedding! This became apparent to me when I shot their engagement session. I was still pregnant during their session, and they brought a book for my child to have when she was born! I still have that book, and both my toddlers love it. Haley and Matt are just like that–they bring that kindness, compassion and respect to everyone they meet! They are truly an example of living joyously and faithfully.
The week leading up to their wedding in Raleigh NC, the weather was calling for thunderstorms. Haley and Matt were looking forward to a lot of portrait time after the ceremony, and I knew that it was upsetting that their plans would have to change. Haley and I checked the weather every day up to the wedding. Eventually, Haley came to terms with it and felt prepared for the rain. Even though she was a little disappointed, you could tell her priorities and focus were on her marrying Matt. She clearly had found a way to not feel so worried about it!
Their wedding was at Sacred Heart Cathedral in downtown Raleigh NC, and their reception was at the Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club. Even driving to the venue, it was an emotional rollercoaster. Most of the time it was storming, causing huge slowdowns on the highway, but there would be random bands of perfect weather too! I reached the hotel where the bridesmaids were getting ready and it was still rainy, but we made the best of it!
Once everyone was ready, we went to chapel which gave us a peek outside. Yep, it was still raining. Nonetheless, they had a beautiful Catholic ceremony that emphasized marriage as a sacrament. It was wonderful, and I was able to document their love on camera!
When we exited the church, to our surprise and sheer joy, it was bright and sunny! And that set the mood for the rest of the evening. We were able to take some portraits outside of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, which were some of the photos they were wanting! And the weather turned out perfectly for that!
We moved onto the reception at the Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club. Thanks to the now-clear weather, we were able to get some portraits outside with bridesmaids and groomsmen! And their reception hall was decorated with candlelight and just a really lovely ambiance for the black and white wedding that they had envisioned.
After portraits and first dances, then getting to enjoy some time as a married couple, we were able to get some shots on the dance floor. Then we ducked out of the reception for a surprisingly lovely sunset that was absolutely amazing!
At the end of the night they used confetti poppers as their exit. And, it was such a great choice, because you could see the joy on their faces!
I loved working with Matt and Haley. They were just so happy and joyous in everything they did. And their loved ones around them recognized it. The way they considered and loved everyone was so apparent throughout their wedding day. It was such a memorable and lovely day that I got to spend with them.
Haley and Matt, I pray that your marriage is even more beautiful than your wedding in Raleigh NC!
Vendor Team:
Caterer – Candace Raniery-Lewis
Hair and Makeup – Roya Barick
DJ/Music/Entertainment – Dow Oak Events
Bakery/Cake – Happy Little Cakes
Bride’s Dress – Bridal and Formal Center
Bridesmaids Dresses – Azazie
Groom and Groomsmen Attire – Mens Warehouse
Wedding Planner/Coordinator – Candace Raniery-Lewis
Florist – Sweet Love Blossoms
Ceremony Venue – Sacred Heart Cathedral, Raleigh NC.
Reception Venue – Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club
Photographer – Jennifer Eddine
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