“The purpose of life, after all, is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for a newer and richer experience”
I didn’t have a chance to meet Jen and Justin before the big day, but it didn’t matter, from the moment we started chatting, we knew we’d be a perfect fit. They LOVE the mountains just as much as I do but also live in Raleigh, my second love. They love all things outdoors and aren’t afraid to bust a move on the dance floor. As they always vacation in Banner Elk, it was very special for them to get married here and Overlook Barn never disappoints.
Justin proposed on the same day they closed on their first home together and they both reminisced about it during the private vows. Sweet Justin was nearly bursting at the seams before this moment, but after they had time to share their love and a few stories from the morning, everything shifted and only excitement filled the air. Jen kept repeating she was ready to get started. So off we went!
The winds were picking up just as everyone lined up for the ceremony and it took a whole team of friends, family and Elegant Events Staff to hold the Arbor in place. It only served to add to the adventure of it all though. We got them down the aisle and all the guests secured in the barn before the rains came.
The fog was rolling in hard the night before but we weren’t concerned. I’ve managed mountain top fog many times. When it shifted to black clouds right before the Mr. and Mrs. portraits I looked at Jen and said we can see if it passes and risk it never stopping…or make a run for it.
Obviously we ran.
Rain turned to hail and hail turned to a rainbow. We were all soaked from head to toe but filled with great big belly laughs. Her dress must have gained an extra 15 pounds with the water weight but she took it like a champ then skipped off to the dance floor!
Fortunately the rain stopped, and as the fog rolled back in, it brought with it the Northern Lights!! We couldn’t see them in their entirety, but very much appreciated the pop of color! We ran back and forth between Jen’s favorite songs and a new color in the sky!
What an incredible adventure this weekend turned out to be! All four seasons in one day! 10/10 would do it again next weekend!
The Vendors who made the day possible:
Photographer: @cynthiajviola with Michael Freas
Venue: @overlookbarn
Planner: @eleganteventweddings
Dress: @essenseofaustralia from @carolinabridalworld
Suits: @black_tie
Rings: @kayjewelers
Florals: @bouquet_florist_boone
HMU: @bella_bridalartistry
Catering: @gadabouts_catering
Cake: @choicecakes1
Video: @HoneyDewFilms
Rentals: @thesummitwoodworks
Rehearsal @stonewallsrestaurantnc
Officiant: Bruce King
DJ: @djdaybreak