A couple stands close together, holding a lush bouquet of white flowers and greenery, against a backdrop of light stone architecture. The man wears a light pink suit, and the woman wears a soft pink dress. They share an intimate moment.

Melrose Knitting Mill Weddings

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April 25, 2019

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melrose knitting mill wedding photography – johnique & derrick

Hi everyone!

So, here we are – spring is finally here and the 2019 wedding season is well and truly underway. I’m really happy for 2 reasons: 1) the sun is out and 2) I’ve just finished working on this beautiful Melrose Knitting Mill wedding photography from a few weeks back.

Johnique and Derrick’s was actually the first of two weddings I shot at Melrose that same weekend. It’s not often I shoot two consecutive weddings at the same venue, so I think this gives me a great opportunity to maybe show two very different, but equally beautiful weddings back-to-back. I always strive to capture the personality and uniqueness of each of my couples and the individual mood of their wedding days. For me, each wedding (that is each couple, their friends and family, and the people that make it all happen) gives it its own personality and voice that should come through in the pictures. People commenting on my Instagram often talk about how they “get” the character of each couple in my photos. If that is the case, then I am achieving my goal and that makes me a happy chappy!

The vast majority of my clients over the years have been drawn to my work for my artistic photojournalistic style. Many of my couples are uncomfortable in front of the camera, which I can totally relate to as I feel dead awkward on the other side of the lens myself. I think my empathy with the feeling of awkwardness some of us get when having our photo taken has actually helped me connect with my couples and that helps us (them and me!) just relax and have some fun with things. If everyone is relaxing and having fun, that leads to trust and trust leads to great pictures. So over time, and without necessarily trying to, I’ve found my style and approach has evolved and portraiture has now become a key element of my wedding day coverage. It varies from client to client of course, some want a lot of portraits, some want the minimum. Most want somewhere in-between. Whatever each client wants is totally fine with me, as long as there is enough time in the schedule. I consult with each of my clients in the run-up to every wedding to make sure everything is looking good and timelines look realistic for the kind of photos they’re interested in getting.

I think I’ve mentioned before that I’ve seen an increase in the number of people doing “first looks”. This is great news for me as it basically means my couples are creating more time for me to work with them to get those relaxed portraits without impacting on my ability to deliver the photojournalistic coverage I would normally give. Johnique & Derrick wanted plenty of time for portraiture, so together with their planner – the amazing Steph Smith at Southern Oaks Events – they did a really good job of building out a timeline that allowed us to create a good variety of shots of the bride and groom, the wedding party, friends and family. With the beautiful day we had, the light was amazing and, with such fabulous subjects as these, I really had a tough time of whittling the images down for the blog. We really made a LOT of portraits I really like.

So here, without further ado, are JUST SOME of my faves from Johnique and Derrick’s day. This Melrose Knitting Mill wedding photography gallery tells the story of their day from start to finish. Again, everything is totally unstaged or directed by me aside from the portraits. I’ll be back soon with the follow-up to this post, which will be from Melanie & Anthony’s gorgeous Melrose wedding the following day. Same venue, with an equally amazing couple, but a totally different day with its own unique character and voice. I’m looking forward to sharing that one too!

Kudos to the fabulous team of pros who worked behind the scenes to make it all happen:

Ceremony & Reception: Melrose Knitting Mill, Raleigh, NC | Event Coordination & Catering: Steph Smith, Southern Oak Events, Raleigh, NC | Florist: Embellished Blooms, Raleigh, NC | Cake: Simply Cakes, Cary, NC | Make-Up: Contour Kissed, Raleigh, NC | Bride’s Dress: The White Gown, New York, NY | Groom’s Suit: Sebastian Cruz Couture, Miami, FL | Officiant: Rev. R.E. Midgette, Raleigh, NC | DJ: DJ Tys, Raleigh, NC | Videographer: AO&JO, Raleigh, NC | Assistant Photographer: Erin Henderson, Wilmington, NC

A make-up artist applies makeup to a seated woman under a ring light in a well-lit room. Two other people are present: one holds a camera, and another works at a table. The setting is relaxed and creative.
A woman sits in a chair, wearing a pink headwrap and white top, getting her makeup done by an artist. The scene is framed by a round light, with other women in pajamas in the background, suggesting a relaxed, casual setting.
A makeup artists table filled with various lipsticks, brushes, and cosmetic products arranged neatly. The focus is on the colorful lipsticks in different shades, while other makeup tools and accessories are in the background.
A woman with her eyes closed is having makeup applied to her lips. She is wearing a pink hair cover, and the focus is on her face as a hand holds a makeup tool near her lips. The background is softly blurred.
A woman sits smiling as two other women style her hair. The woman on the left holds a section of hair, while the woman on the right twists another section. They are all in a room with a painting on the wall.
A monochrome image of a woman adjusting her hair while looking in a mirror. She wears a jeweled headband and has a focused expression. The photo captures an intimate, candid moment, highlighting the womans reflection.
A group of women wearing pink pajamas and one in a white outfit sit and pose together in a warmly lit room. They are gathered on a patterned rug with a floor lamp and a painting in the background, exuding a joyful and relaxed atmosphere.
A long, lace wedding dress hangs elegantly in front of a window in a dimly lit room, next to a vintage dresser with a mirror. The room has a peaceful, intimate atmosphere.
A bride stands in a room wearing a white wedding dress, surrounded by four women helping her, all in pink and white attire. The room has a bed with various items on it, and a standing mirror by the wall.
A bride in a lace gown stands near a window with sunlight filtering through. Another woman, dressed in white, adjusts the train of the dress. They are in a living room with a patterned rug, a sofa, and wall art in the background.
Smiling woman with curly hair wearing a white lace dress and sparkly hairpiece stands against a neutral background. Her makeup is elegantly done, highlighting her eyes and lips.
Close-up of a bride in a lace wedding dress. Her left hand is prominent, showcasing an elegant engagement ring. The dress features intricate floral patterns and subtle beading, creating a delicate and classic bridal look.
Close-up of a brides hand resting on her hip, wearing a strapless white lace wedding gown. The focus is on the intricate lace details and the simple elegance of her manicure, with a subtle bracelet on her wrist.
Black and white portrait of a woman in profile. She has curly hair and is wearing a sleeveless lace top. The background is blurred, giving a soft focus effect to the image.
A bride in a lace gown stands in the center of a room, surrounded by bridesmaids in pink dresses who are helping adjust her dress. The scene is filled with natural light, highlighting the intricate details of the brides gown.
A bride stands in front of a historic building, her veil flowing gracefully in the wind. The black and white image captures the elegance of her gown and the timeless architecture behind her.
A bride in a white dress and veil holding a bouquet approaches a groom in a light suit standing with his back to her. They are outdoors on a brick path, near a monument. Its a sunny day.
Black and white photo of a neoclassical building with large columns. A couple stands at the bottom of the steps, with the woman in a flowing dress and the man facing the entrance. Flags are visible atop the building.
A bride and groom stand smiling at each other outdoors. The bride holds a bouquet and wears a long veil. The groom is in a light-colored suit. They are surrounded by trees and in front of a large building on a sunny day.
A couple stands outdoors, smiling on their wedding day. The bride, in a white dress and veil, holds a bouquet of flowers. The groom, in a light-colored suit, embraces her. Trees and a building are visible in the background.
A couple in wedding attire walks hand in hand outdoors. The groom wears a white suit with a pink tie, and the bride wears a white lace dress, smiling at each other. Trees and a building are visible in the sunny background.
A man in a light-colored suit stands confidently outdoors in front of a building. He has a boutonniere on his jacket and a relaxed expression, with hands in his pockets. The image is in black and white, highlighting the formal attire and setting.
A bride in a lace gown stands outside, illuminated by sunlight. She has a confident expression, her hair styled in curls and adorned with a veil. Trees and a blurred building are visible in the background. Black and white image.
A man in a white suit with a pink tie and boutonniere smiles outdoors. The background is blurred with greenery and trees.
A bride in a lace wedding dress and veil smiles while holding a bouquet of flowers. She stands in front of a light-colored stone wall, showcasing her elegant hairstyle and accessories.
A bride stands elegantly on stone steps in front of a building, wearing a long lace-train wedding dress and holding a bouquet of flowers. The stone architecture frames her figure, and a window is visible in the background.
Black and white photo of a bride holding a bouquet. She has a calm expression, wearing a lace dress and a veil. Her hair is styled in curls adorned with small flowers. Light softly illuminates her face, creating a serene and elegant atmosphere.
A couple stands joyfully beside a stone wall, with the man embracing the woman from behind. She holds a bouquet of white and pink flowers. They are both dressed in elegant attire, suggesting a wedding or special occasion.
A couple stands close together, holding a lush bouquet of white flowers and greenery, against a backdrop of light stone architecture. The man wears a light pink suit, and the woman wears a soft pink dress. They share an intimate moment.
A bride and ten bridesmaids pose outdoors in flowing pink dresses. They each hold bouquets of white and green flowers. The background shows a building and trees in daylight, with flowers lining the pathway. Everyone smiles brightly.
A group of six men in light-colored suits are standing together, laughing and smiling. The black and white photo captures a joyful moment as they stand in front of a building.
A group of groomsmen in beige suits stands outside on a sunny day, smiling and talking. The groom, in a white suit, stands in the center. They are in front of a building with columns, surrounded by greenery and flowers.
A bride in a white dress and veil smiles while holding a bouquet, standing on the grass in front of a stone building with large windows. The sun illuminates her, highlighting the lace details on her dress and the greenery in the background.
A bride with curly hair, wearing a wedding dress and veil, stands outdoors. She smiles softly, looking at the camera. The sunlight highlights the lace details of her dress and her bracelet.
A bride in a lace wedding gown is standing outdoors, backlit by the sun. Her arms are raised, holding the veil, creating a flowing silhouette. The scene is framed by a stone building and grass.
A black and white photo of a lively social gathering in a brick-walled room. People in elegant clothing are engaged in conversation around tables adorned with floral centerpieces. The archway frames the scene, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
A black and white photo of two people in a restaurant. They are seated back-to-back at a table, each looking at their phones. The room is dimly lit, with empty tables around them and framed art on the walls.
A black and white photo of a bride with braided hair and floral headpiece, applying lipstick to a woman in a dress. They are facing each other, highlighting a moment of connection and careful attention.
A person in a pink lace dress holds a stack of wedding programs. The text on the program indicates a wedding ceremony for Derrick Turner and Jonique Fonville, scheduled for March 23, 2013.
A decorative wedding display featuring a chalkboard with Derrick ? Johnique and the wedding date. Below are white flowers, eucalyptus, wooden crates, copper lanterns, and a marquee letter T accent.
A chalkboard sign at a wedding reads, Welcome to our Unplugged Ceremony. Please turn off all cellphones and cameras and enjoy this special moment with us. Thank you. The sign is surrounded by flowers and wooden crates.
A bride in a white gown and a groom in a beige suit enter a rustic venue with brick walls. She holds a bouquet of flowers. A decorative sign and seated guests are visible in the background.
A black and white photo of a bride and an older man walking down an aisle at a wedding ceremony. The bride is holding a bouquet and wearing a veil, while the man is in a light-colored suit. Guests are seated on either side, watching the procession.
A black and white photo of a groom in a white suit standing next to a man in a robe and glasses. They are surrounded by floral decorations, and the groom looks outward with a thoughtful expression.
A bride and groom walk down the aisle together in a rustic venue with brick walls and elegant chandeliers. The room is filled with seated guests, and a wedding officiant stands at the altar adorned with flowers.
A black and white photo of two bridesmaids in dresses holding bouquets. One is adjusting her glasses, while the other wipes a tear. They stand by a brick wall, lit by natural light from a nearby window.
A wedding ceremony in a brick venue. The couple and officiant stand at the altar, adorned with greenery and flowers. Bridesmaids in pink dresses and groomsmen in beige suits surround them, while guests watch from their seats.
A bride in a gown and veil bows her head, holding a bouquet. A person in a white robe gestures with an outstretched hand. The scene is soft-focused, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere, capturing a moment during a wedding ceremony.
A bride and groom exchange rings in a wedding ceremony. The bride wears a veil and white dress, while the groom is in a white suit. A priest in a red and white robe officiates. Floral decorations and bridesmaids in pink dresses are in the background.
Black and white image of a wedding ceremony. A bride in a lace dress smiles at the groom as they hold hands. Bridesmaids are visible in the background, and a brick wall is partially seen behind them.
A bride and groom stand at the altar during a wedding ceremony. The groom, wearing a white suit, looks playfully at the camera. The bride, in a wedding dress and veil, faces him. Another man in a suit stands smiling in the background. Flowers and a cross are visible.
A person holding a wedding program, titled The Wedding, with the names Derek Turner and Jahneke Fonkaliz. The program is printed in elegant script on a light-colored paper, and the persons hands are visible, gently grasping it.
A bride and groom share a kiss at their wedding ceremony. They stand in front of a floral arch with white flowers and greenery. The bride is in a lace gown and veil, and the groom wears a light-colored suit.
A newlywed couple joyfully walks down the aisle after their ceremony. The bride wears a white gown, and the groom a light suit. Bridesmaids in mauve dresses and groomsmen in cream suits stand nearby, all smiling. Guests sit, watching the celebration.
A joyful couple walks down the aisle at their wedding ceremony. The bride wears a white gown and holds a bouquet, while the groom is in a light-colored suit. Guests seated on either side watch and celebrate the moment in a warmly decorated venue.
A bride and groom smiling at their wedding. The bride is in a white lace dress and veil, holding a bouquet of flowers. The groom is in a light-colored suit with a pink tie. They stand in front of a wooden backdrop adorned with floral arrangements.
A man with braided hair and a beard peeks around a white curtain, smiling. The background consists of soft, vertical folds of fabric. The photo is in black and white.
A framed chalkboard sign on a patio reads, It just wouldnt be a day with us without some friendly competition. Please enjoy our game night themed cocktail hour. The sign is surrounded by crates with lanterns.
A group of well-dressed people stand outside a brick building, laughing and smiling. Two men in suits are prominently visible, sharing a light-hearted moment. Sunlight illuminates the scene, highlighting the cheerful atmosphere.
A group of people dressed in formal attire are seated around a modern outdoor patio with a small pool. They are engaged in conversation, surrounded by wicker furniture with red cushions. String lights are hung above in an open-air setting.
A group of people are seated around a low outdoor table, engaged in conversation. The setting is a patio with brick walls and greenery. Drinks are on the table, and one person is adjusting their jacket. The atmosphere is casual and lively.
A group of six women sit around a table by a pool outdoors, enjoying drinks and appetizers. They are smiling and dressed in stylish attire. The setting is lively with other people in the background.
Three men dressed in suits share a joyful moment. The man in the center wears a beige suit with a pink bow tie and boutonniere. They are standing in front of a stack of firewood and a wooden building.
A slate tray holds a row of mini appetizers, including spring rolls and small cups of tomato soup with grilled cheese bites. The setup is artfully arranged for an elegant presentation.
People are gathered at a stylish outdoor event by a pool with TURNER floating on the water. Some are seated on red couches, while others mingle around. String lights hang overhead, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
A bride and groom are pictured close together in an intimate pose, about to kiss, against a brick wall. The bride is wearing a white wedding dress and the groom is in a white suit. Both look happy and affectionate.
Two people sitting together at an event; one wearing a white shirt and suspenders, the other in a light pink dress with a sweater, looking at a phone. A person in a dark suit stands nearby. The scene is warmly lit in a formal setting.
A black-and-white photo of a group of people dressed in formal attire inside a room with exposed brick walls and large windows. Two men stand on the right engaged in conversation, while others sit or stand nearby, illuminated by a chandelier.
A bride in a lace gown and veil leans in to speak with an elderly woman seated at a table. The woman smiles warmly at the bride. The setting appears to be a warmly lit indoor event.
A three-tiered wedding cake decorated with pink and white roses and greenery. The cake topper reads Finally Mr & Mrs. The cake is illuminated by natural light.
A dimly lit room with a three-tiered wedding cake on a wooden table, surrounded by flowers, photos, and candles. A chandelier hangs above, casting a soft glow. The background features a brick wall.
Elegant table setting with a green napkin, lace placemat, and silverware. A small heart-shaped tag reads Kaleigh, with a small candle and basket of bread nearby. Greenery decorates the white tablecloth.
A joyful couple dances together at their wedding. The bride is in a white lace gown, and the groom wears a beige suit. They smile and move energetically in a warmly lit, rustic venue with exposed brick walls and wooden beams.
A bride and groom dance joyfully at their wedding reception. The groom wears a light suit, and the bride is in a white gown. Bridesmaids and groomsmen in matching outfits cheer them on in a warmly lit, decorated venue.
A group of people in elegant attire are joyfully dancing and smiling indoors at an event. The women are wearing pink dresses, and one man in a light suit holds a drink while taking a selfie. The setting has warm lighting and wooden floors.
A joyful bride and groom dance enthusiastically at their wedding reception. The bride wears a white lace gown, and the groom is in a light suit with a pink tie. Guests in the background join in the celebration, smiling under elegant wooden beams.
Black and white photo of a couple dancing in a rustic venue with brick walls and chandeliers. Guests are seated around them, and a DJ is visible in the background. White drapery hangs from the ceiling, adding elegance to the scene.
A couple shares a joyful embrace during their wedding dance. The bride wears a white dress, and the groom is in a light-colored suit. They are surrounded by a warmly lit, rustic venue with guests in the background.
A couple shares a romantic kiss during their wedding dance. The bride wears a flowing gown with a floral headpiece, and the groom is in a light suit. They are in a room with brick walls and large windows. Sunlight streams in, creating a warm atmosphere.
A smiling couple, dressed elegantly, share a moment at an indoor event. The man wears a light-colored suit, and the woman in a detailed dress points playfully to the side. The background is softly blurred, suggesting a festive or intimate gathering.
A black and white photo of a couple dancing in a rustic wedding venue. Theyre surrounded by seated guests who are watching and clapping. The room has exposed brick walls, chandeliers, and flowing white curtains.
A woman in a white dress with curly hair is sitting at a table. She is smiling and gesturing with one hand raised. The background features wooden paneling, and the setting appears bright and airy.
A couple sits at a decorated wedding table with greenery and candles. A wooden backdrop displays the words this is us in white script. The bride wears a white dress and the groom a suit with a pink tie, both smiling and looking joyful.
Three women stand together in conversation, lit by warm sunlight. One woman gestures as she speaks, while the other two listen and smile. The background features a brick wall and large windows.
A diamond ring positioned on a reflective surface with the word love visible. The background is out of focus, featuring bokeh effects resembling sparkling lights. The overall image is in black and white, creating a classic, elegant ambiance.
A joyful wedding reception scene with guests dancing. A man in a beige vest and a woman in a pink dress move energetically, surrounded by others laughing and dancing. The warm lighting and exposed brick walls create a lively atmosphere.
A couple joyfully dances at a wedding reception. The woman wears a sparkling silver dress, and the man is dressed in white. Other guests in pink and pastel outfits are visible in the background, celebrating under chandeliers and a wooden ceiling.
A woman in a pink dress speaks into a microphone at a wedding reception. The couple, seated at a table adorned with flowers and candles, listens attentively. Behind them is a wooden backdrop with this is us written on it.
A black and white photo of a wedding reception. A man gives a speech near a couple seated at a floral-decorated table. Behind them, a sign reads Best Day Ever. Guests are seated on either side, and a chandelier hangs from the wooden ceiling.
A couple, seated at a wooden sweetheart table decorated with greenery and flowers, smiles and claps at a wedding reception. Guests are visible, with brick walls and warm lighting in the background. Love by us is written on the wooden backdrop.
A black and white photo of a group of women. One woman, seated in the center, is wearing a sparkly dress. The others stand around her, engaged in conversation. The atmosphere appears lively and joyful.
A joyful woman in a sparkling dress sits on a chair surrounded by friends with raised arms, celebrating at a lively dance event. The scene captures a sense of fun and togetherness, with elegant drapery and brick walls in the background.
A bride with a big smile hugs a guest at her wedding reception. The scene is lively, with people clapping and celebrating in the background. The image is in black and white, highlighting the joyful expressions and interactions.
A couple in formal attire cuts a three-tier wedding cake adorned with flowers. They are in a warmly lit room with brick walls and a large arched window. Decorations include greenery and a framed photo on the table.
A couple in formal attire are playfully smearing cake on each other during their wedding celebration. They are in a room with exposed brick walls, and a decorated cake sits in front of them on a table.
A joyful wedding moment where a groom playfully smears cake on the brides face. They stand next to a tiered cake adorned with flowers, surrounded by rustic brick walls and warm lighting, sharing laughter and joy.
A couple stands joyfully beside a white tiered wedding cake adorned with flowers. They are surrounded by candles, flowers, and a vintage photo on the table. The brick wall and soft lighting create a warm, intimate atmosphere.
A couple playfully smashes cake on each others faces while kissing. They are dressed in formal attire, with the background featuring exposed brick walls and a wooden structure.
A large group of people at a formal event in a rustic venue with exposed brick walls and chandeliers. Guests are dressed in suits and dresses, some are seated while others are standing, smiling, and watching something off-camera. Tables are elegantly set.
A lively wedding reception scene with guests dancing energetically. A bride in a sparkling gown is in the center, raising her arms joyfully. Chandeliers hang from the ceiling, adding an elegant ambiance to the celebration.
A group of people are dancing energetically at a party. Many are smiling and raising their hands in the air. The room has chandeliers and draped white curtains. The atmosphere is lively and joyful.
Four women joyfully dance and sing together at a party, holding drinks and wearing stylish dresses. They are surrounded by other guests in a warmly lit room with elegant drapery and chandeliers.
Two women are talking at an indoor gathering. One is wearing a yellow shawl and holding a drink, gesturing expressively. The other, in a dark dress with a drink, listens attentively. Dim lighting and elegant decor set a warm, intimate atmosphere.
A lively group of people dancing in a dimly lit room with white drapes and a chandelier. Two women in the foreground are joyfully interacting, holding drinks and gesturing expressively. Others in the background are also enjoying the celebration.
A woman in a floral dress and a man in a tie sit at a table in a warmly lit event room with chandeliers. She appears to be laughing, while he sits casually beside her. Decor includes draped fabric and wooden chairs.
A lively dance floor scene with people joyfully dancing and laughing under a bright chandelier. The room features brick walls and arched windows, creating a warm, festive ambiance.
A person is dancing in a sparkly, fringed dress, surrounded by people in dim lighting. The image captures movement and energy, with a focus on the intricate details of the dress.
A couple walks hand in hand down a path, surrounded by people holding sparklers. The woman raises her arm joyfully, and both are smiling. The scene is festive, with elegant evening attire and an illuminated background.
A couple shares a kiss during a nighttime celebration, surrounded by guests holding sparklers. The atmosphere is joyful and festive, with guests smiling and dressed in elegant attire.

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