“Love her, but leave her wild”

— Atticus

Oh my goodness what a day! I didn’t get to meet Lara and Ben in person until the wedding weekend which always makes me a little nervous. It’s so nice walking into the wedding day knowing exactly how the couple interacts in front of the camera and how our personalities vibe. But with these two, you would have never known! Big hugs right away and I could tell it was going to be one hell of a party!

Their 24 person crew rolled into the rehearsal looking fabulous, cracking jokes, full of smiles and ready to dance! It was completely irrelevant that a hurricane was brewing outside and everyone knew they would be soaked by the end of the day. They were there to support their favorite couple no matter what! I knew I’d fit right in. ;)

Then there’s Westglow Resort! Wow! I haven’t had a chance to shoot here yet and I was not disappointed. The getting ready spaces in the mansion were filled with beautiful natural light and we had plenty of indoor options for portraits while it was rainy and cold.

Lara wore her grandmother’s gorgeous veil which has been passed through the family in 14 different weddings. Such a beautiful heirloom.

These two babes were not interested in too many official portraits, they just wanted to get to the party! We made a quick stop downtown to stop traffic for a photo, snagged a few when they arrived at the venue then let the shenanigans begin!

These guys had soooo much fun and there couldn’t have been one guest in attendance who didn’t end up on the dance floor at some point! The high winds made a sparkler exit impossible, so their crew whipped out their iphone flashlights and not one memory was lost!

We have to hang out again soon you guys! Thank you so much for inviting us to be a part of your day!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola with Jesse Roberts

Coordinator: Megan at The Elegant Event

Ceremony: First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock

Venue : Westglow Resort and Spa

Dress: Essence Designs of Australia

Suit: Men’s Warehouse

Rings: Engagement ring from Ben’s Mother, Wedding Bands: Diamond’s Direct

Hair and Make Up: Shear Shakti

Florist: Thistle & Twigs Flowers

Officiant: Mike Mckee