Highgrove Estate Wedding - Jacqueline and Jon

“So I’m thanking you today, because of you I am now me.”

— John Butler Trio

Oh my goodness, we love Jacqueline and Jon so much!

For starters A.J. connected with Jon about a year ago discussing business and boxing. Jon has such a passion for serving people well both in business and in life, it just happens to play out at the moment in his 9 Round gym. He and A.J. were fast friends. 

Then, when Jacqueline and I met just a few weeks ago to discuss the wedding, we instantly realized we are basically the same person. Both ENFPs, similar back stories, the same love of adventure and stubborn unwillingness to be put into a box. She decided they'd be a great fit for our pre-marital counseling sessions and A.J. and I fell in love with them all over again as we got to hear their story and watch them pick on each other and read each other's minds as we discussed a few marriage expectations. 

These two were meant for each other. She talked about how he makes her laugh and fills in the gaps where she lacks, making her better. He talked about how she keeps him fun and how she is THE person he wants to marry...not believing in two marriages, he knows they will make the sacrifices to ensure they stay together for life. 

As the big day commenced and they bustled about Highgrove, the stresses of the day began to weigh in, but all of it disappeared as Jacqueline practically bounced (in her Jordan's) down the stairs to meet Jon for the first look. The moment they hugged each other you could just see the stress melt away. They talked and laughed, teased each other by choosing not to kiss til the ceremony and even practiced their first dance. Perfection. 

The other aspect of the day that was perfection was Highgrove Estate. You guys. This place is unbelievable. Everything you could possibly need on site and a photographer's dream. It was made with the best light in mind and the whole day photographed so beautifully. I cannot wait to come back! 

Jacqueline and Jon we love you both so much, we hope this week is full of rest and perfect bliss! Thank you for letting us be a part of you day! Hope you enjoy these favorites from the day!

This gold bracelet is a gift from Jon's mother to Jacqueline, it's a Persian tradition for the mother of the groom to give the bride a gift. And below, Jacqueline's Jordans. A lifetime favorite of hers could not be neglected on her big day. Love it!

The vendors who made the day possible:

Photographers: Cynthia & A.J. Viola

Venue and Catering: Highgrove Estate

Coordinator: Amanda Shepherd

Bride's Dress: BHLDN

Groom's Attire: Ticknors Mens Clothiers

Bride's Ring: Joint Venture Jewelry

Groom's Ring: LA Laser Engraving

Make Up Artist: Anna Dill

Florist: Sarah Brock

Officiant: Jeremy Robertson

DJ: Bob Perry

Cake Baker: Sweet Memories Bakery

Linens: CE Rentals

Invitations: Basic Invite

Favors: Carolina Popcorn Shoppe

Heather and Adam - All Saints Chapel Wedding, Raleigh, NC

“Could never have dreamed that we’d find enough
On our very first date”

— Josh Walker

Ok, so do you want to hear the sweetest thing ever? Heather and Adam were sharing the story of how they fell in love with Adam's brother-in-law Josh and he joked that there was a song in there somewhere. After all, Adam had pursued her at her job for a long time, and their first date was at a cute little wooden playground where they ended up talking for hours through the night falling in love along the way. Then Josh actually wrote them a song about their first date and then sang it for their first dance. And I die from cuteness overload. 

All Saints Chapel, built in 1875, was just perfect for them. It has this classic and timeless feel to it due to its beauty and having Oakwood Cemetery out the front door adds an element of history that really suits their personalities. I love that not only was Heather "ok" with doing the first look in the graveyard but when I said I could make it not look like a graveyard with my angle she said she really wanted the graveyard in the photos! The coolest bride ever. 

Heather and Adam also share a mutual love of gaming. They even brought their gaming controllers to the engagement shoot which was so fun, and in his first words in his vows Adam talked about having a player number 2 for life - bringing a knowing laugher from everyone in the room and a huge smile to Heather's face. They are just a perfect match. 

I hope you guys enjoy reliving the day as much as I did! Here are a few favorites!

We all know how much I love first looks. They just make the day so seamless and allow so many emotions to be had in private with only your love. However, I am also quite partial to father-daughter first looks. Especially when they have as sweet a relationship as these two.. Oh my goodness, I was just a pile of mush after this moment. Brian was being his usual self, full of jokes and trying keep it cool, but I think it just made Heather realize she adored him that much more. Bring on the Kleenexes!

Photography: Cynthia Viola

Venue/On-site Coordinator: Diane at All Saints Chapel

Dress: David's Bridal

Groom's attire: Men's Warehouse

Rings: Ultimate Concepts by Brad Dingler

Flowers/Coordinator:Jane at The Wedding Woman

DJ: Todd Moody

Cake: Once in a Blue Moon Bakery

Caterer: Empire Eats Catering

Rehearsal Dinner: Gravy 

Hair: Lauren Meyers Stevens

Make Up: Melinda Ewbank

Invitations: Made by groom :)

Honeymoon: Washington D.C.