The Umstead Hotel and Spa Wedding | Raleigh, NC | Chuck and Andy
I was quickly but carefully walking backwards, camera up to my right eye with my left eye sort of open making sure that I could see my feet and that said feet were not in danger of tripping themselves up and at the same time looking for a safe place to fall to in case my feet failed me.
Chuck and Andy were walking towards me, having just been pronounced husband and husband, smiling at each other with that smile that said "we did it, we really did it." Chuck raised his finger, pointed at me, smiled and touched my shoulder as he walked by. I choked up.
I have been known to shed a few tears at weddings. I can't help it. I get to know my couples pretty well and am often made to feel like I am part of the family even if for just a short period of time, and Chuck and Andy did just that. They welcomed me into their home, shared stories with me, made dinner for me, laughed with me and allowed me to capture some of the most tender moments I have ever had the privilege to witness.
During their ceremony, there was barely a dry eye amongst their guests or any of the hotels guests for that matter, who had gathered by the pool and outside their rooms to watch their Umstead Hotel and Spa wedding.
However, it was at their cocktail hour and reception where Chuck and Andy truly shined as they greeted and caught up with friends and then as they went from table to table sharing laughs and hugs with everyone before getting on the dance floor and tearing it up. All night long, I saw nothing but huge smiles from either of them which were just infectious and beautiful, just look at the photos below and you'll see what I mean. I dare you not to smile!
The end of the night was them in the center of the dance floor as they were surrounded by family and friends who cheered for them and showed so much love. I could not have thought of a better send off or two more deserving people.
Congratulations and thank you to you both!
Wedding Vendors
A huge thanks to everyone who made this wedding as special as it was for Chuck and Andy, especially to the wedding planner, Megan from A Southern Soiree, who put together such a beautiful event and brought together some of Raleigh's finest wedding pros, it was a pleasure working with you all:
Florals - Watered Garden Florist
Venue - The Umstead Hotel and Spa
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music - Scott Schillin
Reception Music - Dj Randy B of Bunn DJ Company
Invitations - Maria Scheel
Rentals - CE Rentals
Market Lights - Themeworks
Rented Piano - Maus Piano and Organ
Calligraphy - Yellow House
Cookies - Parker's Crazy Cookies
Let’s work together!