Full disclosure, this blog post contains one of the BEST groom seeing bride for the first time reactions I have photographed in the last 6 years. The first thing I asked Will after the ceremony was if he cared if I put those photos (because they are so amazing and emotional and REAL) on the blog and then I never even give him a chance to tell me no. 

Washington, North Carolina is one of my favorite small towns in Eastern, NC (luckily for me, it’s a short 10 minute drive to get there!), and also where Will and Julie chose to get married. The ladies all got ready at the Elmwood 1820 Bed & Breakfast, which is such a gorgeous historic home right in the heart of Washington. The natural light that pours into all of the rooms is so dreamy and perfect for getting hair and makeup done! The huge wrap around porch is also so beautiful and with a very Southern feel and the perfect place to photograph Julie in her gown, a two piece, crop top and skirt gown with a lace overlay top with Swarovski Crystal buttons in the back.

Julie’s wedding gift to Will was really unique and we loved the idea! They are in the process of building a house and she had the Bible verse “Let no one split a part what God has joined together” painted onto the framing of the doorway in the house, which will eventually be covered in sheetrock, but they both know it’s there. 

The ceremony was held at Festival Park on the waterfront in downtown Washington. The gazebo was decorated simply, yet beautifully, in greenery and touches of color. As I said above, Will’s reaction to seeing Julie was such perfect, raw and emotional, it just reminds me of why we shoot weddings. During the ceremony, the preacher had all of Julie and Will’s immediate family members come to the front to pray for them, another amazing moment that we just loved! 

The reception took place at the Civic Center, the decor was mainly focused on the huge, suspended centerpiece with geometric light fixtures over the main table, that was covered in flowers and greenery. As soon as we arrived to the reception we knew that every single guest would be on that dance floor and sure enough, they were! 

Julie and Will – we love you both and wish you all the happiness in the world <3

Vendors

Ceremony: Festival Park | Reception: Washington Civic Center | Hair/Makeup: BoHa Studio | Florist: Your Perfect Day | Catering: Scarborough Fare | Cake: Scarborough Fare | Stationery: Krista Marsh Designs | Envelope Liner Art: Brittany Rawls | DJ: Bill & Bill | Rentals: Grand Rental Station | Wedding Dress Boutique: Maggi Bridal | Bridesmaid Dress Designer: Bill Levkoff