Kate and Jess were married on a beautiful September afternoon at Carrigan Farms in Mooresville, North Carolina. Their wedding day was intentional, heartfelt, and overflowing with joy. From exchanging vows beside the quarry to dancing the night away surrounded by their favorite people, every part of the day felt uniquely and authentically them.
Getting Ready
I arrived at the mother of the bride’s home where Jess was getting ready. Well, “arrived” might be a generous term, I more or less wobbled in. I had recently broken my left foot and ankle, so I spent the day navigating wedding photography on crutches and in a giant boot. Thankfully, my second shooter and I felt confident we could make it happen, and Kate and Jess couldn’t have been more gracious. Their calm, easygoing nature set the tone for the entire day, and they even checked in on me and sent words of encouragement throughout.
Megan from Megan Oliveri Artistry is one of my favorite hair and makeup vendors to work with. Not only is she inclusive, but fun to hang out with – which I so important on your wedding morning. Her down to earth demeanor brings such a relaxed vibe to the room, and her work is truly art.
They asked for a lot of in-between moments for this wedding day, so that’s exactly what I looked for throughout. These little moments of connection – the girls taking a selfie, laughing with the bride, mom kissing Kate on the cheek, it’s these little moments that are totally unprompted that really make the day what it is.
The First Look + Ceremony
The morning unfolded slowly and peacefully as everyone prepared for the celebration ahead. Jess had always envisioned sharing a first look with her dad beneath the willow tree before seeing Kate, and although I wasn’t sure what the midday light would bring, it turned out to be absolutely perfect. The sun filtered through the branches in the most beautiful way, creating exactly the kind of portraits she had dreamed of.
Their ceremony felt soft, nostalgic, and almost dreamlike. Sunlight streamed through the trees while a gentle breeze moved through the quarry. With the water behind them and sand beneath our feet, it felt as though we had stepped away from the world for a little while. One of my favorite moments happened as Jess walked down the aisle. I caught a glimpse of Kate’s reaction and knew immediately it was a moment worth preserving.
As they exchanged vows, the emotions of the day settled over everyone present. Family and friends watched through tears and smiles, completely invested in the beginning of this next chapter. Then, almost as if it had been planned, the waterfall roared to life just as they shared their first kiss. We quickly captured the reverse first-kiss photo they had requested before they made their way back down the aisle through a shower of flower petals and cheers.
Couple’s Portraits
Throughout the day, Carrigan Farms offered endless opportunities for portraits. From family photographs beneath the willow trees to portraits around the quarry, every corner of the property seemed made for storytelling. And honestly, I have to rave about this venue for a moment. Between the quarry, the waterfall, the pond, the willow trees, and the reception space, it’s truly a photographer’s dream. The light throughout the day was absolutely incredible.
During the day I also got to work with Elise and Dan from Pisgah Pictures. Doing this part of the day is so important to me because I know it’s important for my couples – it’s THEIR wedding day! I want to create real moments and connections, and hobbling around on crutches and two cameras made it a challenge that made me so thankful for the video team and my 2nd shooter. Everyone was so relaxed, helped orchestrate those intimate moments, and allowed the space for these brides to just breathe into a moment together at sunset. It was really beautiful to witness and be a part of.
The Reception
By the time the reception began, everyone was ready to celebrate. The smell of steaks cooking drifted through the air as guests gathered inside. Parent dances and the couple’s first dance set the tone for the evening before the party truly came alive. As the night went on, the dance floor became increasingly energetic. Omar from Parkes Entertainment kept the dance floor packed all night! We had SUCH a good time. Out came the feather boas, foam sticks, and some truly impressive dance moves. It was the kind of reception where no one wanted the night to end.
From beginning to end, the entire day felt effortless, joyful, and deeply personal. The love between Kate and Jess was evident in every moment, but so was the love surrounding them. The excitement, support, and celebration from their family and friends made an already beautiful day even more unforgettable.
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