Mary and James were married in June in a beautiful and poignant ceremony at Duke Chapel followed by a joyful celebration at Bay 7. It was fitting for James and Mary to return to Durham, NC for their wedding since they met during their time at Duke! We met Mary when she was the maid of honor in one of our other sweet brides’ weddings (Taylor and Tres). We just love working with friends of past clients and it is such an honor to be referred by them!

Early into the planning of Mary and James’ wedding, tragedy struck when Mary’s dad passed away unexpectedly. One of our main focuses with Mary and her mom was to find ways to honor Mary’s dad and have him represented during the day. Mary’s mom gave her a beautiful locket with her dad’s picture in it.  That locket was wrapped around her bouquet, and as her grandfather walked her down the aisle Mary stopped to place a rose from her bouquet on a small table with a picture of her and her dad. After the wedding, so many friends and family mentioned that they could feel her dad’s presence there. It was so special and heartwarming!

After the ceremony, guests headed to Bay 7 for dinner and dancing. Lush greenery, blush and white florals and accents of gold (by our friends at Embellished Blooms) greeted them. We brought in some gorgeous chandeliers and a stunning twinkle light band backdrop from Get Lit to set the stage for a party. One of our all time favorite bands, Sol Fusion, kicked off the reception in their signature style and we don’t think guests ever sat back down in their seats once dancing started!

Mary and James gave a thank you speech  to their guests and Mary spoke about her love for her dad. To end the night, we brought in Cookout milkshakes (a local college past time of the bride and groom) and the Angus Barn provided fresh made burgers to-go for guests! Guests lined up outside for a sparkler sendoff and Mary and James exited in style in a golf cart decorated by their friends and family!