Sarah and Rich's Wedding at Providence Country Club

The fourth times a charm! Sarah and Rich had to reschedule their wedding four times due to covid but that seemed to only make the day that much sweeter. Highly anticipated by all their friends and honestly less stressful. The went ahead and eloped last year so all the pressures that can build not seeing each other and making last minute decisions just weren’t there. They were so happy to just be celebrating with their friends and being able to move on past all the planning. It was a perfect day.

They met on the Bumble dating app a couple years ago and Rich proposed in Cancun on their 2 year dating anniversary (May 8th). As it turned out, all of their common interests revolve around sports! So of course they had to give a nod to both their alma maters for the weddings. North Carolina State Red and Penn State Blue.

While the sun could have made the day miserable with over 90 degree temps, the clouds rolled in just enough to keep everyone shaded the entire day was was quite literally a silver lining to it all. It was a great day indeed.

You guys thank you for inviting us to be a part of your day!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographers: Cynthia Viola with Kalypso Burley

Venue and Catering: Providence Country Club

Wedding Coordinator: Sarah Duckworth

Her Dress: Essence of Australia from Dar-Lynn's Bridal & Formal Wear

His Attire: Men's Warehouse

Bridesmaids: Azazie

Groomsmen: Men's Warehouse

The Rings: Helzberg Diamonds

Hair Stylist: Jessica with Giglio Hair Designs

Make Up Artist: Carly Sabato

Florist: Party Blooms

Officiant: Benjamin Mazur (Bride's brother)

Band: Marcus Harmon (Personal Friend)

Cake Baker: Renaissance Patisserie

Invitations: Paper Source

Favors: Koozies from Totally Promotional

Gabrielle and Ruby's Engagement at Craggy Gardens

“I’m glad I found you because before you I never knew what to wish for”

— Atticus

You guys I had the very best time cruising down the Blue Ridge Parkway toward the Asheville side this weekend. I’ve very familiar with all the over looks in the high country, but haven’t taken the time to drive south yet. Ruby and Gabrielle were coming up from Columbia, South Carolina and didn’t know much about the area either so I went early to scope it out for them. They had heard good things about Craggy Gardens and so had I, so we set our plans for that. I must say, it did not disappoint. Super unique tree systems line the trail and of course the Blue Ridge as far as you can see.

These two met at West Point and are currently serving our country (thank you!!). While technically already married during covid, they wanted to go ahead and capture an engagement in the mountains, and we’re hoping for a Mexico wedding in 2022!

There were about 30 other visitors at the top of the trail but it was incredibly heart warming to find all of them very welcoming and so very happy to offer to move out of the way so we could get some photos of the love birds without others in the background. That is not always the case at crowded locations, but it made me love these Blue Ridge Mountains even more. The heart of the people is openness and generosity and I was so happy to call them mine and give our visiting guests a good experience.

The haze from the western forest fires is still making an impact on us, not only with the air quality, but with the view. At certain points it was as if they were walking off into the abyss. But it lifted a bit for us at the top and we were able to capture at lease a few dozen miles of blue ridge, if not the 100 or so you can typically see.

You guys I could not be happier for you!! Thank you so much for trusting me with this special memory! Love you!

Halee and Noah's Wedding at Trump National Golf Club

I knew I loved Halee and Noah the moment I met them. Both are so very laid back and easy to be around. They were not interested in too many bells or whistles, they didn’t even want to do the wedding party shenanigans, just say “I do” and throw a party! Covid of course helped them with this as they had to go ahead and elope last year and have that big party this year, but it was only that much more exciting for having to wait!

They met at the Tropicana Bar in Cornelius not too very long ago just a few miles away from Trump Golf Charlotte where they held the wedding, and then he proposed in the Maldives! They love their local area and also love to travel, with big plans ahead.

Halee’s grandmother gifted her with the bible she had carried down the aisle herself. Their marriage stood the test of time and this was her way of wishing many years of happiness to them.

For favors, they used Pittsburgh Cookies baked with love from the family, everyone made their own bag of treats to take home, it was a huge hit!

Thank you so much for including me you guys!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Venue and Catering: Trump National Golf Club Charlotte

Wedding Coordinator: Sarah Frischkorn with Trump Golf

Hair Stylist: Courtney Kay

Make Up: Julie Metzger at Craft Beauty

Dress: Martina Liana from Paige and Elliott suit Michael Kors from The Backroom

Rings: Both Verragio from Diamonds Direct

Florist: Flower by Barbara

Officiant: Jan Davis, aunt of the groom

DJ: Dj Bob

Deanna and William's Engagement on Lake Toxaway

“Always be on the lookout for the presence of wonder”

— E.B. White

It had been raining all week leading up to Deanna and William’s engagement shoot and was threatening to this morning as well with heavy, dense fog blocking visuals all around. But right before I pulled in, the fog lifted and we were able to start! Better yet, the sun even made an appearance half way through! I was so excited!

These two cuties met at work a couple years ago and got to know each other on a recruiting trip to UNC. When William proposed a couple years later he recreated that entire trip, remembering every detail about what she showed him, where they walked and where they shared meals. They are just the sweetest and I had so much fun getting to know them and little Loki at their family’s home at Lake Toxaway.

We were exploring the property, taking photos, telling stories and playing with Loki when we came across the canoe set up by the lake….and well…you know what had to happen next! Luckily they were just as excited as I was and we made it happen! Loki was even excited!

Thank you so much for trusting me with your memories you guys! I cannot wait til April!

Jodi and Matt's Wedding at Twickenham House

“I’m not good at making specific plans. Just meet me under the sky somewhere and be alive with me.”

— Victoria Erickson

Despite the torrential downpour we received right as the reception began, Matt and Jodi’s wedding was one for the books! I have been dying to shoot at Twickenham House in Jefferson, NC and it did not disappoint! The views are unbelievable and of course the coordinator, Leigh, was so super helpful the entire weekend. They have tons of rooms for your guests to stay in if you want to make a weekend out of it and beautiful hiking spots all around. We were able to hike right up to the edge of the mountain at their Cliffside Ceremony location and the backdrop was incredible for photos.

While they are from Wisconsin, and currently living in Florida, the mountains have always held a special place for them, so they had all their family meet in the middle in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Matt proposed on a 4th of July trip to the Great Smoky Mountains back in 2015. They had been exploring all day and ended up hiking to Cataract Falls where he got down on one knee to propose. They were the only ones at the bottom of the waterfall until suddenly there was a large family watching them to celebrate the proposal! The mountains seemed like the perfect way to capture that important piece of their story.

They, of course had to include their fur baby Slinky in the big day. She was very excited and showered them in kisses all day while also being the perfect companion to the sweet flower girls.

It was thundering and lightening as we were finishing up all the photos and we knew we didn’t have much time but they were willing to risk it for the photos. Shortly after we reached the reception hall a huge thunder clap was heard all around and the lights went out! Luckily Twickenham has excellent generators so we barely skipped a beat before the bottom dropped out and all the rain that had so graciously held off all afternoon came all at once!

You guys I cannot thank you enough for including me in your big day! I had so much fun exploring the cliffs with you!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographers: Cynthia Viola with Martha Shannon

Venue: Twickenham House

Dress: Alfred Angelo Bridal

Tux: Ike Behar from The Tux Lady in Jefferson

Her Ring: Jareds Galleria of Jewelry

His Ring- Custom from Celestial Rex

Hair and Make Up: Mark of Eden Salon, Tera Shaw

Florist: Log House Florist

Officiant: Gerard A. Murphy with High Country Ministers

DJ: Dan Etzler, On Target DJ

Videographer: HoneyDew Films

Catering: Frugal Gourmet Catering

Invitations: Minted.com, Artist - Grace Kreinbrink

Favors: Koozies

Lauren and Brady's Wedding at White Oaks Barn

“There is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor”

— Charles Dickens

Brady and Lauren met 4 years ago at Taco Mac where they were both working. Lauren was a bartender and Brady was sent to the Cumberland location to work in the kitchen and train to become a manager. After a couple weeks of working together they started hanging out with friends together and eventually went out on an official date. They told me all this when we met for pizza to discuss the wedding and just by the way they told the story, I knew they were perfect, he makes her laugh so much.

For example, during the proposal, everything went wrong but she loved it that way. He couldn’t start the fire because the wood was wet, the hike ended up being the wrong hike and he couldn’t get down on a knee because the dog was jumping around too much. Every restaurant in town was booked and in the one they finally chose, the food was wrong three times! He finally proposed at the house and she didn’t even believe him at first but then she did and three minutes later started planning the wedding! These two are both so endearing, he’s witty and loves to joke around and nothing makes her smile more than a good joke well timed. (Like the fact that she had the best man show up for the first look before she did) ;)

While most of the surprises of the day were filled with humor, some were also quite meaningful. Right before the ceremony, Lauren’s grandmother gave her an opal ring to borrow from her great-grandmother. It complemented the charm her mother gave her the night before to tie to her bouquet including a piece of her own wedding dress, a heart locket given to her as a teen (with the key given to Brady) and a blue stone of course. Old, new borrowed and blue.

Of course to start the reception they had an epic dance intro from the entire wedding party and their quiet Father-Daughter dance turned into a break dancing battle as the entire room rose to their feet and cheered! You would expect nothing less from these two.

For the record, I never post this many reception photos, but so many fun elements happened, I simply have to. These jokesters know how to party. From fun groomsmen socks with their dogs’ faces on them to shotgunning alllll the beer to cigar portraits and cake smashes. From epic garter catch battles to Madi hiding under Lauren’s dress when Brady went for the garter - the party never stopped and neither did the laughter. It was such a joy to capture.

You guys I cannot thank you enough for not only including me in the wedding, but inviting me to all the family shenanigans all weekend long, I had an absolute blast and cannot wait to join you for the next one! Ahem, Josh. ;)

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Videographer: Hayle with Crash Media Productions

Venue and Catering: White Oaks Barn

Coordinator: Mary Lynn with Arrowed Beginnings

The Dress: Justin Alexander from Aisle and Veil

The Tux: Generation Tux

Bridesmaids: Birdy Grey

Groomsmen: Generation Tux

The Rings: Shane Co

Bride’s Hair: Julie Sloan

Bridesmaids’ Hair and Make Up: Alyssa with Make Me Up

Florist: Something Borrowed Blooms

Officiant: Bradys Grandfather - Harry "Paka" Christian

DJ: Tommy from Pirone Entertainment

Photo Selfie Station: Cynthia Viola

Cake Baker: Diane with Acunas Custom Cakes

Meghan and Andrew's Elopement on the Blue Ridge Parkway

“Go as far as you can see. When you get there you’ll be able to see farther”

— J.P. Morgan

When a couple is willing to get up at 4am to climb a mountain with you in the DARK just to catch the sunrise you know you’ve found the right couple. Meghan and Andrew wanted a simple ceremony at Beacon Heights with the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background so we made it happen!

She literally had to put on her dress and adjust her make up in the dark while we waited for the sun to make an appearance, but it was totally work the effort.

With a few 20s crooners playing in the background, they shared their first dance and spent some time taking in the moment.

It was truly the perfect ceremony and I am so honored you chose me to be a part of it you guys!

Abby and Bailey's Wedding at Thistledown Farm

“When love is a habit, joy is a reflex”

— Bob Goff

You guys, I haven’t seen this much JOY at a wedding in a minute. These two are such a perfect match they cannot help but grin from ear to ear when they see each other. I’ve known Abby since she was still in elementary school and to see her so perfectly happy and content in life and with her choice in husband gives me alllllll the feels.

I captured her sister Molly’s wedding two years ago and it was so wonderful to see all the same smiling faces again, just as eager and excited to help these two celebrate. Coming from a planted church family, they have a culture of service imbedded into the dna of every member so it was all hands on deck to not only make all the pretty details, but to set up and tear down everything in record time… all with a simile on their faces, so happy to be a part of something beautiful

And let’s not forget this adorable farm venue had live chickens, piglets, horses and sheep cheering them on from the sidelines as well!

Daddy-Daughter first looks are my favorite! And these two share a special bond so it was so fun to watch them interact all day. Donnie messaged me right before I arrived to see if I could re-create an image of Abby they had taken of her as a flower girl…then he got all emotional and then I got all emotional and everyone else did too. It was a day filled with several happy tears!

They didn’t want to see each other before the wedding, so they did a first-touch instead, and watching the built up tension just melt away the moment they found each other was beautiful. They are truly the best match.

They had little Marshal run to Bailey right before Abby walked down the aisle and he was so happy to do so! The happiest little fur ball ever… just like his parents.

Bailey and Abby met in accounting class on the first day and went on their first date just a couple weeks later and have been inseparable ever since. You just never know where you’re going to find your person.

You guys thank you so much for including me in your special day! I love seeing how happy you make each other and cannot wait to see all the things you will do together in the future!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Venue: Thistledown Farm, Graham, NC

Dress: Lilian West from New York Bride and Groom

Suit: Gordons Menswear

Bridesmaid dresses: Birdy Grey

Her Ring: Olive Ave Jewelry - the Windsor Ring

His Ring: Northbands

Florist: Dave Duty

Catering: Smokehouse at Steves

Cake Baker: Maxie B's

Kayla and Connor's Sky Retreat Wedding

These sweet babes have waited quite some time for this big day! With all of the postponements last year Kayla and Connor were not spared. But everyone showed up ready to celebrate with them!

They were able to utilize the many talents of their family to make the wedding a success, their mothers helped with all the planning, her cousin was the officiant, his aunt baked the cake, her mom made all the toffee favors and of course she wore several beautiful legacy items as well. She wore her great grandmother's pearls, as well as a garter made from Grandmother's wedding dress. It’s so beautiful when couples can tie in their families legacies and traditions.

Their sweet pup Georgia was especially happy for them (and the fact that she got lots of extra attention). She did so great during the ceremony and portraits.

I have been dying to shoot at Sky Retreat! Just look at this view… I was not disappointed. And did you know they also offer hang gliding lessons!! I am SO there as soon as season slows down!

Oh my goodness, if anyone stole the show this weekend besides the happy couple, it was definitely Kayla’s Grandpa! He carried around a photo of his late bride and was filled with emotion all day…which of course got everyone else teary-eyed as well. He and Kayla have such a good relationship though, they also shared a special dance.

Sky Retreat is beautiful in any light, and I’m so happy I got to witness them all! You guys thank you so much for including me in your big day!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Venue: Sky Retreat

Wedding Coordinators: Marianne and Laurie, mothers of the bride and groom

Her Dress: Essense of Australia from Southern Bride

Mens’ Attire: Menguin

Bridesmaids: Maggie Sottero

Her Ring: WillWord from Etsy

His Ring: Manly Bands

Hair Stylists: Maggie Kerry - Meraki Salon and Michelle Eller - Shear Faith Salon, Lewisville

Make Up Aritst: Michelle Eller - Shear Faith Salon

Florist: Kari Sells

Officiant: Melissa Baran (Cousin of Bride)

DJ: Karl Mohr from Mohr Fun Events

Catering: Boonetown BBQ

Cake Baker: Kim Williams (Aunt of Groom)

Favors: English Toffee homemade by Marianne Janiszewski (Mother of Bride)

Anna and Jim's Backyard Chapel Hill Wedding

Anna and Jim are quite the match. When a perfectly sunny week turned tropical storm first at their rehearsal, then again the moment the wedding ceremony was to begin, they were not phased. With the help of Melissa, their coordinator, they simply danced around it. First with changing up ceremony locations multiple times and finally with pushing back the start time 45 minutes to catch the clear weather window before it started raining again. In every decision they were together and ready to face it.

While they live in Kentucky, they held their ceremony in her dad’s back yard in Chapel Hill.

They both adore their pup Kit and worked several parts of the wedding around him, starting with a first look. (technically, starting with their engagement shoot) When the biggest decision of the day (to push back the ceremony) was upon them, they each did a first look with Kit and the stress just melted away. His happy demeanor calmed them right down. (Kit has a super cute instagram account by the way, @kitthegoldenretriever) He preceded Anna down the aisle, and also appeared in both their vows and the wedding speeches. He is well loved indeed.

They decided to throw confetti after the ceremony (as opposed to sparklers after the reception) which was super fun and could include all their guests. I highly recommend this option!

Bourbon was a theme throughout the day as well, from Jim’s morning details to their first drinks to a classy line up at the reception and even mini bourbon bottles as favors to the guests, along with super adorable matches with their date and “Stolen from the Hallahans” written on the back.

Kit, of course had his own space at the reception complete with a dessert made by a local dog bakery to look just like the cinnamon roll the adults received! He was so cute all night, bringing his ball to all the guests to throw for him, and everyone was happy to oblige. Even during the first dances he made sure his parents were having fun with the ball too.

It was such a wonderful and happy day, thank you guys for inviting me to be a part of it!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Coordinator: Melissa Hayes

Venue: Dowsett Home

Bridesmaids Hair and Make Up: The MakeUp Addict

Wedding Attire: Show me your Mumu

Rings: Jared

Florist: English Garden

Officiant: Mike Hallahan, Father of the Groom

Musicians: Duo Licht

DJ: DJG

Catering and Cake Baker: Edward White

Kit’s “Cinnamon Roll Cake:” Oliver’s Collar

Rentals: Grand Rental Station and Cottage Luxe

Cara and Justin's Wedding at The Sutherland

Oh my goodness, Cara and Justin’s Sutherland Wedding this weekend was straight out of my Etsy and Pinterest dreams! At their engagement session they were so excited to highlight all the beautiful North Carolina Greens in our area parks to their Ohio family, and they loved getting to actually introduce them in person at their gorgeous venue, The Sutherland. This location paired with every beautiful detail imaginable made it a dream to photograph.

Before I can get to the wedding though, I MUST share a few of Cara’s Bridal Portraits! The hardest part of photographing them was having to wait to share! I always love the opportunity to capture a bride in the dress rehearsal. Not being especially Southern herself, Cara was a little uncertain about doing bridal portraits, but I am so glad she did, just look at this beauty! It also gave us a good feel for the venue as well as how the dress moves and whether or not she wanted to adjust her flowers or hair. I highly recommend them.

When I was chatting with the bridesmaids early in the weekend they were sharing their connection to Cara and mentioned how she has the best sense of humor and most genuine laugh and smile of anyone they know. Courtney said you feel like a rockstar when you’re able to make her laugh because she just makes you feel so good about yourself. I couldn’t agree more, she is so very kind and wonderful to be around.

At the rehearsal Cara’s grandmother Gay made everyone laugh when she boasted that she’s responsible for making all this happen. And while we all laughed, we all also realized it was such a beautiful legacy to claim. It was apparent to me right away that both of their families have already spent a lot of time together and love each other deeply. Throughout the night at any given moment they were sitting at tables together, dancing together and laughing deep belly laughs.

Justin too was praised for his kind and welcoming demeanor throughout the day. His best man, Jay told stories of how each guy in his party met him due to how he welcomed them into one activity or another and before they knew it they were friends for life. Cara and Justin have a way about them that draws everyone to them and it made the atmosphere of the whole day so very wonderful.

You guys thank you so much for inviting us to participate in your big day!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographers: Cynthia Viola with Jen Hagan

Coordinator: Shawn Schindler

Venue: The Sutherland

The Dress: Simply Blush Bridal Boutique

The Suit: Men’s Warehouse

The Rings: Schiffmans

Hair and Make Up: The Beauty Tribe

Florist: Poppy Belle Design

Officiant: Laney Margolis

DJ and Photobooth: CWDJ Entertainment

Catering: Cook Shack

Cake: Cupcake Shoppe

Rentals: CE Rentals

Signature Cocktail Sign Artist: Becky at Fitz Jenkins Fine Art

Get Away Car: Carolina Livery Transportation

Invitations: Minted

Favors: AllinCork Coasters and Great Finds Crafts Bottle Opener on Etsy

Kate and Michal's Wedding at The Lodge on Brier Creek

It’s evident immediately after meeting Katherine and Michal that Christ is at the center of their relationship. In their words for sure, but more importantly in their actions. It’s no wonder they are both in Physical Therapy careers because they are both so kind and filled with grace.

On their engagement shoot they talked about how they’d met in undergrad, experienced a mud run together and how they knew from the very beginning something was different about “this one.” As friends and family shared stories all weekend it was clear they were not only well loved by each other, but by every person in attendance. Grandparents spoke of their kindness, college friends spoke of their presence and willingness to help, parents all spoke of how they feel blessed they’ll be gaining a new son or daughter. It was truly a beautiful weekend surrounded by love, rolling hills and a million cicadas singing their approval.

I don’t typically post rehearsal photos, but how cute is this camping themed rehearsal?!? S’mores are my love language so you know I was obsessed. I mean really, mini flashlight favors, marshmallow trees….and the Mario groom’s cake!

The quiet moment with mom as she helped her dressed was one of the most special moments of the day. The gravity of it all hit them both and they were simply grateful. Dad too was overwhelmed and they shared a prayer over her.

First looks with grandma and the bridal party were also special and filled with joy and love.

They decided to do a blindfolded first look with each other but quickly decided it was better to just be present (with closed eyes) instead. Everyone backed away and gave them space to share a prayer and encouragement to each other.

At the rehearsal we had a hard time deciding which direction to point the ceremony, the top of the knoll at Lodge at Brier Creek was gorgeous in every direction!

They chose to share communion together as their first act, followed by having their parents lay hands and pray over them. It was all so incredibly beautiful.

You guys thank you so much for including me in your big day! I wouldn’t have missed it for the world!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Coordinator: Katie Dinger

Venue: The Lodge on Brier Creek

The Dress: Meagan Kelly from Savvy Bride

Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal

The Tuxes: Christopher's Formal Wear

Her Ring: Windsor Jewelers

Hair and Make Up: Symmetry Bridal Group

Florist: Green Bee Floral Designs

Officiant: Michael Bowers

DJ: DJ Harlem Entertainment Services

Videographer: Our Story Video Creations

Catering: The Scarlet Hen

Cake: Dom Bakeries

Invitations: The Knot

Favors: Michal made brownies from his famous brownie recipe

Laura and David's Wedding at Mount Airy Farm

I met Laura and David originally at Landon and Alexa’s wedding a couple years ago, and got to hang out with them again at at Kristin and Matt’s wedding earlier this year. It was only natural by the time their wedding rolled around that we’d be staying in the same house, drinking bourbon at 1am and relaxing in the jacuzzi after a long, beautiful and successful wedding day.

They chose the most amazing little farm house in Asheville to host not only their wedding but several of their friends and family during the week leading up to the big day. With so many people coming together to celebrate them, it was only right to spend several days together rather than just a few hours. This was a weekend that will live on for years to come.

Her engagement ring is David’s great grandmothers ring and her wedding ring has diamonds from her grandmother’s engagement ring. His wedding ring is Laura’s grandmother’s engagement and wedding bands welded together and the original engravings are still in tact. How incredible is that bit of legacy?!? I love it when couples are about to entwine their histories together like that.

It poured rain the whole night before the wedding and morning of. We had already moved the ceremony out of the field in front of the house and were worried we would have to move it indoors entirely, but just an hour before the ceremony started, the clouds broke and we were able to enjoy the rest of the evening dry and carefree! It was amazing!

Several of the weekends details were DIY from the many hands who came together to make it happen for them. Buckets and buckets of loose flowers were brought in and we spent hours setting them up in every different possible crevice of the house. Matt and Justin brewed a craft beer just for the wedding, Laura made her own veil, Kristin brought tons of details from their wedding to add to the mix, several friends pitched in to make all the meals in between set up and tear down and of course Alexa pulled it all together into a seamless piece of art. It was such an incredible weekend.

So this happened! Leave it to Landon! I kept clicking just long enough to see him submerged then had to dive out of the way to save my camera from the wave! Totally worth it for the surprise on Laura’s face!

You guys thank you so much for inviting me to spend the weekend with you! I had a blast and wouldn’t have missed it for the world! Love you!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Venue: Mount Airy Farm, Leicester, NC

Coordinator + HMU: Alexa Coyne

The Dress: Moonlight Bridal

The Rings: Gregory Jewelers in Morganton, NC

Florist: Vicki Landolf

Officiant: Bill Slotterback

Catering: Moe’s BBQ and JD’s BBQ

Cake Baker: Karen Donatelli

Rentals: Classic Event Rental

Jessica and Zak's Wedding at Beacon

“Love is the master key that opens the gates of happiness”

— Oliver Wendell Holmes

I could not be more excited for two people on their wedding day! I have had the pleasure of watching Jess and Zak grow more and more in love from the day they met until today. From long chats while horse back riding with Jess, to scheming the surprise proposal with Zak, capturing their engagements on Roan Mountain and finally as they said I do, I have listened as they both spoke so fondly of each other and jumped with excitement as they celebrated.

They celebrated at Beacon Butcher Bar in Boone as it’s one of their favorite restaurants and it suited them just perfectly from the incredible spread Beacon provided down to every detail Molly created to help remember the day.

We were worried the cold weather was going to make all the photos a challenge, but the sun came out just in time and bathed them in the most perfect sunset glow as they explored the waterfall on the premises. Little Colt might have had more fun than anyone throughout the day though, naming his favorite succulents, dancing with mom and drinking Shirley Temples. It was a perfect day indeed.

Thank you so much for including me in your big day you guys! I wouldn’t have missed it for the world!

Love you!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Venue: The Beacon Butcher Bar

Coordinators: Tina and Susan from the Beacon

Florist: Fuschia Moss Floral Design

Hair: Sarah Simpson from Essential Beauty Salon Studio

Accommodations: Courtyard by Marriott

Cake: The Cakery at Lowes

Tatiana and Blin's Wedding at Sunnyside Farm

“I have found the one whom my soul loves”

— Song of Solomon 3:4

It’s always fun when a couple chooses a date that is unique or matters to them in some way, I love that these two chose Pi day for theirs! 3.14 They even had tiny (quarter-sized) pies provided for each of their guests to celebrate!

Tatiana and Blin invited their families to join them at a beautiful vacation home here in the mountains and celebrated their ceremony together in the living room. Every single person was so incredibly gracious and kind to each other and the other vendors as we set up and prepared to shower these two in love. It’s always so wonderful to watch everyone come together as a team to make something beautiful happen. Of course Magan with The Elegant Event led the charge and everything flowed flawlessly.

Both Blin and Tatiana are so very generous and sweet, they had surprise gifts and letters for each other and their crew and couldn’t wait to see their reaction! Watches, jewelry, headphones…they knew exactly what to give.

All day Tatiana had the BIGGEST smile on her face. Whether it was beaming at her groom, saying thank you to her family or simply taking in the wonder of the day she was filled with kind words and grand smiles.

Their first look was so sweet. They wanted to wait until the ceremony to share their first kiss so we had a lot of fun with eskimo kisses instead!

It’s rare I come across something at a wedding I haven’t seen before, but these two decided to have a tree planting ceremony! Instead of pouring sand into a jar or lighting candles, they poured soil and water into their first little tree which they are so excited to care for. Blin’s childhood pastor, Simon, flew in from California to perform the ceremony for them, he also guided them through their premarital counseling. You could tell he was very special to them.

Since it was a rather gray and overcast day we knew we weren’t going to get that beautiful golden glow the sunset typically offers so we played around a bit with some Christmas lights and off camera flash to get the look instead :)

You guys thank you so much for inviting me to be a part of your big day!

The Vendors who made the day Possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Coordinator: Megan Drake with The Elegant Event

Venue: Sunnyside Farm

The Dress: Brille by Justin Alexander

The Suit: Bernard's Formalwear

Wedding Party Attire: Poffie Girls and Bernard's Formalwear

The Rings: Raleigh Diamond Fine Jewelry

Hair and Make Up: TM Bridal Beauty

Florist: April Flowers

Officiant: Simon Liversidge

Videographer: Timm Young Films

Catering: Moondance Catering

Cake Baker: Stick Boy Bread

Rentals: Parties Too

Invitations: TaDa Cards

Erin and Matt's Wedding at Home

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass...It’s about learning to dance in the rain”

— Vivian Greene

Like so many weddings planned during Covid Matt and Erin’s big day was shrouded in uncertainty. They had hoped they pushed out far enough to have the big wedding downtown with all their friends, but Covid just had other plans. Just a couple weeks before the big day they made the tough decision to cancel the plans with their beautiful venue, Vidrio, and have a small ceremony at home. They still hope to throw a big party there in the future, the date is just a little uncertain.

That didn’t stop them from committing their lives to each other through thick and thin. No matter what they go through in the future they’ll know they’ve already come through this and be stronger for it.

With grandparents unable to attend, they found other ways to include them in the ceremony and Erin also had a handkerchief made out of her Maternal grandmother's bridal gown and wrapped it around her bouquet. The penny in her shoe is the same penny her mother and grandmother used before her. Lots of beautiful traditions made this day extra special.

Her brother John, wasn’t going to be able to make it to the wedding due to covid traveling issues and she was extremely sad because they’re quite close. However, at the final moment he was able to pull it together and surprise her the morning of the wedding. Everyone was a bundle of tears and filled with joy. We decided to include him on the first look with dad and that made it even more memorable.

As with all weddings that have had to move forward during Covid, they were unable to have the majority of friends and family in attendance. They set up a zoom call though and were able to include them via video, as well as several face time calls after ward.

The sparklers *may have all been duds but that didn’t stop them OR the rest of the family from partying! They ran through spirit fingers to everyone’s delight concluding the happiest of days.

I had so much fun with you guys! Thank you for including me on your special day!

The vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Coordinator: Kyle Riggan

Dress: Mon Cheri Bridal from Channy Bride & Beyond

Suit: Jos A. Bank

Party attire: Azazie and Jos A. Bank

Rings: Raleigh Diamond

Hair and Make Up: The Makeup Addict

Officiant: Kayelily Middleton

Catering: Ashley Christensen Catering

Cake Baker: Once in a Blue Moon Bakery

Florist: Expressions of Love

Invitations: Minted

Ashley and Micah's Wedding at Bridge Street Gallery and Loft

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”

— Lao Tzu

I must say the first wedding of 2021 set the bar pretty high. The gorgeous rooftop at The Historic Redmont Hotel for portraits, an EPIC sunset at Bridge Street Gallery and Loft just before the ceremony started, one of the most genuine couples you’ll ever meet and a live band, Mikey Clams, to keep the party going strong!

I’ve probably been asked a dozen times already how I managed to book a wedding in Birmingham, having never been there before, but Micah was my coach at Iron Tribe in Raleigh several years ago and is one of the most significant influencers in my life to date. He just happens to be from Birmingham.

Speaking of Iron Tribe, Ashley and Micah are quite possibly the strongest couple I’ve ever photographed. (In case you couldn’t tell) ;) They are both coaches and met while at a competition.

While this was a super joyous occasion and past 2020, it wasn’t unaffected by Covid. Micah’s grandparents were unable to attend and instead sent their well wishes via hearfelt letter read by his sister Marina at the rehearsal dinner. Ashley included her grandmother by wrapping her handkerchief around her bouquet.

They had the cutest little favors to give to their guests: Honey jars from Ashley’s family’s hives. Such a fun and personal touch. “Meant to Bee”

Micah’s uncle Mike helped him find the band because he plays in one himself, and everyone insisted he join them for a few songs. The guests were thrilled and a few others joined by singing! Finally someone informed Mikey that the groom plays….and well, you know everyone was on the floor for that! It’s been years and everyone was so excited to see him play!

They went out with sparklers and cheers, hearts full and everyone with a smile on their face. It was such a fun way to start of the new year for everyone. Thank you guys for letting me be a part of your day!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Venue: Bridge Street Gallery and Loft

Her Dress: Carrie’s Bridal

Her Ring: Diamond’s Direct

His Ring: David Yurman

Florist: All Good Things Floristry

Hair Stylist: Alex Smith

Officiant: Preston Stack

Band: Mikey Clams

Catering: Chuys Mexican and Maki Fresh

Cake Baker: Sally Thompson

Bartending: B & B Bartending

Rehearsal Dinner: Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Accomodations and photo location: The Redmont Hotel

Gabby and Brett's Engagement in Banner Elk

“Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost.”

— Erol Ozan

I was absolutely ecstatic when Brett proposed to Gabby this summer! They are dear friends of ours and we’ve been working out together at Crossfit Postal for what seems like forever. The only catch was that for their photos they wanted a snow adventure! Which I was all about…. except for the patience part lol. But finally after several months of waiting and a few small teaser snow falls, we found the one we were waiting for! We were afraid it was only going to be in the single digits because it had been a few days prior, but we lucked out with sunshine and 40s, I’ll take it!

They were willing to venture with me into an area I have recently discovered but also to push further than I had previously. It absolutely required four wheel drive so they scooped me and off we went, they even brought some champagne to celebrate!

After we were finished on top of the mountain we decided to snag one last look at the Mill Pond because the waterfall is just amazing and while we were down there Brett jumped right in to help a Florida family who had gotten their car stuck in the ditch, it was amazing!

You guys I cannot wait til the big day this fall!! We’re going to dance the night away!

Sebastian and Karina's Proposal at Beech Mountain Ski Resort

“You don’t have time to be timid. You must be bold and daring”

— Lumière, Beauty and the Beast

I schemed with Sebastian and his mother Cristy as well as the staff and ski instructors at Beech for weeks to help make this moment perfect for he and Karina. He wanted a secluded spot on the mountain, but he also chose one of the busiest weekends of the entire season to come. We were thinking the cool area behind Skybar at the top of the lift would be awesome, but the catch was that neither of them had skied before so there was no guarantee they would feel comfortable enough by the end of the day to take the lift to the top.

We decided catching the view from the ice skating rink would be better but too crowded in the afternoon so we switched the proposal to sunrise before the park was even open. I set up my gear at dawn and waited for them to arrive. He told me he would be wearing a bright orange beanie and she would have on a camo one… to my surprise not one, not two but THREE couples matched that description at 7:30am and I nearly flagged down the wrong one.

He played it cool though as he approached me; he had told her he bought a private tour and they would be seeing some local animals and other sites before skiing and I would be photographing the experience. Once they were in place he popped the question and the rest was magic.

I didn’t realize when I asked him to remove his gloves and pick up a handful of snow that he had never actually seen snow before this trip! It was certainly a crash coarse but they both managed beautifully and couldn’t wait to call their family right after!

Congratulations you guys! I couldn’t be more excited for you!

Kristin and Matt's Wedding at Emerald Lake

“Love isn’t losing yourself. Love is finding who you are in the arms of another person.”

— Marisa Donnelly

I met Kristin and Matt at Landon and Alexa’s wedding a couple years ago and knew right away we’d make it to this moment in no time. The way they looked at each other as they giggled in the corner said it all. Covid, of course, kept pushing it back further and further, but we did in fact make it eventually, and everything was absolutely perfect from the glowing candles to the guests in attendance to the way Matt nearly fell over when he saw her for the first time. You can read more about their sweet engagement story here, and their epic Hawaii trip will have to wait a few more months, but they were just so happy to finally say “I do” that all the details fell by the wayside.

When Matt turned 21 he decided to safe a bottle of Crown Royal for a super special occasion in the future. He’s been waiting all these years for that moment and when he met Kristin, he knew this would be the day. His crew was, of course, more than happy to celebrate with him, and he said it was totally worth the wait. He wouldn’t have used it for any other moment.

Just before their first look, they decided to exchange letters to each other and while they were both nervous as they opened them, they knew each other so well they were laughing right away and immediately put at ease. It was the perfect way to enter their first look.

Their friends Laura and David were supposed to attend and be part of the wedding party but Covid made that impossible. Matt and Kristin were super surprised however, when they showed up anyway and waved to everyone from the car, shared the famous crown shot from the car, and pulled up to the front spot so they could witness the entire ceremony from the parking lot. It was so sweet!

Kristin had her heart set on dancing in the rain at the end of the night, she saw something beautiful in the twinkling lights and I’m so glad she did! We had the very best time! You guys thank you so much for including me on your big day!

The Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola

Venue and Catering: The View at Emerald Lake

Her Dress: Savvy Bridal Boutique

His Attire: The Tuxedo Shop

The Rings: Diamonds Direct

Officiant: Don Morphis

DJ: Raise the Roof Charlotte