It all started with a picturesque and gorgeous day in Asheville, NC, perfect for a wedding outdoors. Luckily it wasn’t scheduled for the day before when it was snowing and there were huge gusts of wind making it feel in the negatives! So on this beautiful day, Mackenzie and David joined their lives forever among the company of their closest friends and family. And joy was everywhere!

David showed how much he knew his beautiful wife to be with sparkly glitter paper wrapping his special gift; inside was a blue “I Do” handkerchief which was greatly needed later in the day when the tears were flowing, and a blue hydrangea which was her favorite. And this handkerchief was tucked smartly away in her pockets! Yes, wedding dress trends are bringing pockets into the mix, which can be so versatile and helpful on the big day.

Mackenzie was the epitome of a gorgeous bride. The wedding dress was chic and elegant, with a white and green bouquet with of course, hydrangeas! It was so sweet to see the love and deep connection that she had with her friends and family there while getting ready in the suite.

Her Father First Look was so sweet. This started the never-ending flow of tears between father and daughter. Almost choked me up a few times. He whispered some words of wisdom in her ear and then they were off for their big walk down the aisle (well, the garden path). The small gathering of family and friends were waiting by an eager and emotional David as she approached the ceremony site. Despite the fact that we’re still in winter, this garden was still colorful and lively with greenery and a few budding trees. Mackenzie and David said I Do, exchanged rings, and then we were off to family photos. Thank goodness The Whitegate Inn has such extensive grounds, because were all able to group together on a perfect little patch of green with the sun shining in the background. It lit up her veil like a halo and put the beautiful Inn as the backdrop to all the family photos.

Finally, first dances, a special song from one of her close friends, and cake and champagne to finish off the day. Grandma provided the toasting glasses which she told me were almost 50 years old! If I remember correctly, it was from her own wedding day, so special! AND I got my first piece of wedding cake in over 15 weddings LOL. It was so scrumptious! Almond and vanilla with buttercream icing.

My heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to this amazing couple as they start their first year of married life together. May the joy you felt on this glorious day shine through your countless year together.