Elegant North Carolina Nuptials

I've known Lindsay and her big, lively, wonderfully inclusive family for years, and I was truly touched when she requested my floral designs for her big day. She and her beau Drew decided on a traditional wedding in his childhood church, which featured stunning windows and a grand organ. After exchanging their vows, guests were invited to relax with a cocktail at a nearby hotel before being chauffeured to breathtaking Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens for a garden chic reception.

A passing thunderstorm didn't daunt Lindsay and Drew's fearless guests, who used cocktail hour to explore the lush botanical wonderland that awaited. Daniel Stowe boasts a stately ballroom, towering glass conservatory, impressive water features and terraced gardens. With all this floral abundance, it was a little intimidating to design florals! I decided to use lots of organic greenery, apricot ranunculus, peach stock, salmon and ivory roses and succulents for a bit of whimsy.

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An exquisite dinner, tearful toasts, and special first dances were followed with a raucous party. An absolutely delicious buttercream cake was passed, along with coffee and platters of chocolate dipped strawberries. (My kinda wedding!)

Guests were invited to take home potted succulents (for locals and folks in cars) or "grow your own basil" kits (for faraway friends who needed a suitcase-friendly gift for the plane!) One of my favorite aspects of the entire event was when the couple enjoyed a final dance in the ballroom, just the two of them together, while guests prepared sparklers outside. After sharing a kiss in the twinkling lights, Lindsay and Drew were whisked off to their honeymoon in Bermuda. Happy Life, friends!

Photographs thanks to the absurdly talented, Charlotte-based Julia Tinajero
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