When I saw the total rainout forecasted for this weekend, I wasn’t even remotely worried. I knew my girls would shake it off and have an absolutely perfect day celebrating with their family no matter what! Add to that an absolutely rain-proof Raleigh venue and I’d knew we’d be golden. The Oaks at Salem has a giant tent with walls ready to take on any storm for the ceremony and reception, and their gorgeous interior space and covered deck provides ton of light, perfect for acquiring 100% of the photos if needed. (We did have exactly one 60 second window where it stopped raining, so you KNOW we capitalized on it immediately. ;)
Sarah and Madeline chose to share private vows before the ceremony and had Elisa and I absolutely weeping by the end. Sweet Sarah didn’t even make it out of the door before the waterworks started and Madeline was absolutely in awe of her dress choice, she was at a loss for words. They shared the most heartfelt and considerate vows and then spent a very relaxed and fun couple hours with their family before walking down the aisle.
Both of their fathers got the reception started with more happy tears. Sarah’s dad speaking of how proud he was of them both and Madeline’s dad saying that before today he didn’t see how any other person could possibly love her more than he did, but he caught a glimpse of the way they shared their devotion to each other during their private vows and he knew in that moment that yes, indeed, Sarah does love her more and he could give her away with a full heart knowing she’d be taken care of. We were all a mess after that, but luckily the DJ cued the music and we all danced the night away. :)
You guys I cannot thank you enough for trusting me with your special day! I adore you both and wish you all the happiness in the world!
The Instagram handles for the vendors who made the day possible:
Photographer: @cynthiajviola with Elisa from @incontrastimages
Venue: @oaksatsalem
Planning: @cole_southernskiesevents
Sarah’s Dress: @Vowdweddings
Rings: @baileysfinejewelry
HMU: @weddedkiss
Florals: @mewsdesignsweddings
Minister: @ncweddingminister
Music: @jennysmusicstudio
DJ: @alleventsdjsnc
Catering/Bar: @undertheoakcatering
Desserts: @onceinabluemoonbakery
Rentals: @curatedeventsraleigh