Bride and groom stand together in an outdoor setting illuminated by golden sunlight. The bride wears a veil and fur wrap, while the groom is in a suit. They have a serene, contemplative expression. The background is softly blurred with trees.

Duke Chapel Weddings

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January 10, 2020

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carolina inn & duke chapel wedding – kathleen & michael

Happy New Year, everyone!

What better way to head into the home straight of my wedding season and kick off the blog for the new year than with a classic in the form of Kathleen & Michael’s Carolina Inn & Duke Chapel wedding? This truly was a gorgeous day in all senses of the word:  beautiful venues, fabulous weather, and lovely people – it truly had it all. Carolina Inn & Duke Chapel weddings are always a highlight of my calendar, so it was great to get the chance to photograph a Christmas wedding there with all the festive decorations on show.

Erin and I started the day with Kathleen & Michael at the Carolina Inn, where they were staying and where they would return for the reception later in the day. The Carolina Inn really was looking great with its Christmas décor and it has some great little places hidden away to provide some intimacy for the first look and some quick portraits of the bride and groom after they had read their personal vows to one another. From there, we headed to Duke Gardens for some portraits of the happy couple wringing out the last rays of the golden winter sunlight before heading over to the Chapel itself.

Anyone who has taken a look at my gallery or my blog knows how much I love shooting at the Chapel and it is always especially picturesque when the altar is decked out in brilliant scarlet poinsettias for Christmas. Actually, on this occasion I arrived at the Chapel to find the altar itself had been pushed way back from where it is normally placed, so we took advantage of the room on offer to make some portraits shooting back down the aisle towards the organ. This has quickly turned into one of my favourite images ever taken at the Chapel. We rounded out the evening back at the Old Well ballroom of the Carolina Inn with speeches and dancing courtesy of Evan from Island Sound.

Thanks to Kathleen & Michael for allowing us to be a part of their family on their big day. Many years of love and happiness to you both!

Kudos also to the team of wedding pros who made it all happen. Will the following people please take a bow:

Ceremony Venue: Duke Chapel, Durham, NC | Accommodations & Reception: The Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill, NC | Event Coordination: Sally Oakley Weddings & Events, Raleigh, NC | Florals: Tre Bella Florist, Durham, NC | Hair & Make-Up: Reign Beauty, Raleigh, NC | Dress: Traditions by Anna, Raleigh, NC | Catering: The Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill, NC | Cake: Sugar Euphoria, Raleigh, NC | DJ: Island Sound, Raleigh, NC | Videographer: Pie & Mash Filmworks, Charlotte, NC | Assistant Photographer: Erin Costa, Wilmington, NC

Here, as always, are just a few of my picks of the pics. Cheers!

A white wedding dress hangs at the end of a long, narrow hallway with patterned carpet and framed pictures on the walls. The hall is lit by soft light from chandeliers above.
An ornate red book, a gold-lined envelope with a decorative white card sealed with wax, and two rings in a small dish on a dark wooden surface.
A black and white image of a woman sitting and getting her makeup done by another person. They are seated in front of a mirror, creating a symmetrical reflection. The room is decorated with patterned wallpaper and framed artwork.
A woman is having makeup applied by another person in a room with yellow patterned walls. A framed map and portraits hang on the wall. A wooden desk is covered with makeup products and pink roses in a vase.
A silhouetted bride in an elegant gown stands gracefully in a dimly lit room, as two seated women and an older woman admire her. The scene is framed by an arched doorway, creating an intimate and timeless atmosphere.
A bride in a sleeveless white gown is getting assistance from another person with dark hair, who is adjusting the dresss low back. The scene is set against a green floral-patterned wall, with soft lighting highlighting the brides hairstyle.
A bride in a wedding dress stands in a decorated room, smiling at four women. Two women are taking photos with their phones, one woman is laughing, and another is smiling warmly at the bride. The setting looks cheerful and intimate.
A bride in a white gown, surrounded by a group of women, adjusts a lace veil over her head. The room is warmly lit with patterned walls and framed portraits. The womens expressions convey joy and excitement.
A bride in a white dress and veil smiles as she stands in a room surrounded by four women. The women appear to be joyfully preparing her for the wedding day, with warm yellow wallpaper in the background.
A bride in a white dress and veil gently touches the face of a woman in blue, both smiling. They stand in a room with green patterned wallpaper, and two other people are in the background.
A bride in a white dress and veil stands with a smiling woman in a dark blue dress, who is wiping tears with a tissue. They are indoors, with framed pictures on the wall and flowers in the background.
A bride in a wedding dress and veil smiles while holding hands with another woman. Three women stand behind them in a room with floral wallpaper and vintage decor.
A black and white portrait of a bride wearing a veil. She is looking to the side, illuminated softly. Her expression is serene, and she is dressed in a white gown with a delicate necklace.
A bride stands facing a window with sheer curtains, bathed in soft light. She is wearing a delicate veil and a gown with lace details, captured in an elegant, monochromatic style. Floral wallpaper and potted plants create a serene atmosphere.
A man in a suit stands by a window, adjusting his tie. Soft light illuminates his profile, creating a contemplative mood. The rooms background is softly blurred, emphasizing his thoughtful expression.
A groom in a suit with a boutonniere stands outdoors, posing for a portrait. The black and white image features a background of greenery and a building.
A bride and groom share a kiss in front of a grand entrance, decorated with garlands, on a brick building. The scene is framed by blurred green leaves, with warm lighting enhancing the romantic atmosphere.
A bride and groom stand facing each other in front of a black door. The bride, in a white dress and veil, is reading from a paper, while the groom, in a black suit, listens attentively with his hand on her waist.
A black and white photo of a bride and groom embracing tenderly in front of a glass-paneled door. The bride, in a veil, holds a letter, and the groom gently holds her. Both appear emotional in this intimate moment.
A groom, in a dark suit, is joyfully lifting a bride, in an elegant white gown and veil, as they kiss in front of a decorated doorway. Greenery adorns the pillars on either side of the entrance. A bouquet rests on the steps.
A couple in formal attire pose on a brick buildings steps. The woman wears a white gown and the man a black suit. The entrance, framed by arches and pillars, features greenery and EST. 1926 on the step.
Bride and groom stand together under an archway, holding a bouquet. She wears a white dress and he a black suit. Sunlight illuminates the brick path and greenery behind them, creating a romantic setting.
A bride and groom share a kiss under a decorated chandelier. The bride holds a bouquet of flowers and wears a white gown, while the groom wears a black suit. The background is adorned with festive garlands and lights.
A bride in a white wedding dress and a groom in a black suit stand together under a wooden archway in a lush garden setting, surrounded by greenery and trees.
A couple on their wedding day poses for a photo. The bride wears a white gown with a fur wrap, and the groom is in a black suit with a white shirt and tie, adorned with a pink boutonniere. They stand closely, gazing into the distance.
Silhouette of a couple in wedding attire standing close together outdoors, with the sun setting behind them and trees in the background. The brides veil is flowing and highlighted by the sun.
A bride stands on a sunlit path in a forest, wearing a long white gown with an extended lace train. She holds a bouquet of flowers and the sun filters through the trees, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.
A bride holds a bouquet of white and pink flowers, including roses and orchids, with greenery. She is wearing a white dress with a veil, standing outdoors with soft, warm lighting.
A bride wearing a pearl necklace and a veil smiles warmly. The background features soft, golden bokeh from sunlight filtering through trees, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere.
Bride and groom stand together in an outdoor setting illuminated by golden sunlight. The bride wears a veil and fur wrap, while the groom is in a suit. They have a serene, contemplative expression. The background is softly blurred with trees.
A bride and groom walk arm in arm on a sunlit path. The bride wears a white dress and fur shawl, holding a bouquet. The groom wears a dark suit. Surrounded by autumn leaves, they appear joyful and content.
A bride and groom stand closely together among bamboo stalks. The bride wears a white dress and fur stole, holding a bouquet of flowers, while the groom is in a dark suit with a boutonniere. Soft light filters through the trees behind them.
A bride and groom stand together in a bamboo forest, illuminated by warm sunlight filtering through the trees. The bride wears a fur shawl and holds a bouquet, while the groom is dressed in a black suit.
A bride and groom stand in a forest of tall bamboo, gazing thoughtfully into the distance. The bride wears a long dress with a fur stole, holding a bouquet. The groom is in a suit, with hands in pockets. The scene is captured in black and white.
A couple stands outdoors in soft sunlight, surrounded by trees. The woman is wearing a white fur wrap and veil, smiling, while the man in a suit gently kisses her head. Warm light creates a dreamy atmosphere.
A couple stands in front of a tiered fountain, sharing a tender moment. The woman is in a white gown with a fur wrap, and the man is in a black suit. Sunlight filters through the trees in the background, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere.
A bride and groom embrace outdoors. The bride wears a white dress and veil, with a fur shawl. The groom is in a black suit. Bare trees and soft evening light create a romantic atmosphere.
A bride and groom stand on a tree-lined path. The bride is in a long white dress, holding a bouquet, and wearing a fluffy white shawl. The groom is in a black suit and tie. They both smile at the camera, with greenery visible in the background.
A bride and groom stand on the steps of a historic stone church with large wooden doors. The bride wears a long white gown, and the groom is in a black suit. Two wreaths adorn the walls, and ornate architecture frames the scene.
A wedding party stands in front of a large ornate wooden church door. The bride and groom are in the center, surrounded by bridesmaids in pink dresses and groomsmen in black suits. There are holiday wreaths and lanterns on either side of the door.
A couple stands in front of a grand, illuminated cathedral at dusk. The silhouette of the tall building is highlighted against a darkening sky, creating a dramatic and romantic scene.
A bride and groom share an intimate moment in a dimly lit, ornate stone hallway. Stained glass windows illuminate them with a warm glow, highlighting the brides veil and gown as they gaze into each others eyes.
A bride and groom stand close in an ornate church, illuminated by hanging chandeliers. The bride holds a bouquet of flowers. They share an intimate moment, facing each other, with blurred architectural details in the background. Black and white image.
A bride in a flowing white dress stands before an ornate cathedral entrance, lit by warm ambient lighting. Large wooden doors and an impressive pipe organ are in the background, creating a majestic and serene atmosphere.
A black and white photo of a bride and groom standing inside a grand, ornate chapel. The brides dress train is being adjusted by an attendant while light streams down from above, illuminating the couple. Gothic architectural details surround them.
A bride in a white gown walks down the aisle with an older man in a dark suit inside a grand church. The aisle is lined with red flowers, and decorative lights hang from the ceiling.
A wedding ceremony inside a grand cathedral with ornate architecture. The bridal party stands near the altar, surrounded by red poinsettias. Guests seated in rows watch the proceedings under the warm glow of hanging chandeliers.
A black and white photo of a wedding ceremony in a grand cathedral with high vaulted ceilings. The bride and groom stand at the altar, surrounded by attendants and guests seated on either side. Chandeliers illuminate the ornate interior.
A black and white photo of a wedding ceremony in a church. The bride in a long gown and veil stands facing the groom in a suit. An officiant is between them. Bridesmaids and groomsmen are standing on either side. Candles and decorative patterns are in the background.
A black and white photo of a bride and groom exchanging rings during their wedding ceremony. The bride wears a long dress and veil, while the groom is in a dark suit. A bridesmaid holds a bouquet and watches the couple.
A couple exchanges vows at a wedding ceremony inside a grand cathedral. The scene is adorned with red poinsettias and lit by ornate chandeliers. Bridesmaids and groomsmen stand on either side, with a large audience observing.
A black and white image of a grand, ornate church interior, featuring a vaulted ceiling and columns. A couple stands at the altar, surrounded by pews and illuminated by elegant hanging lights.
A bride and groom share a kiss at the altar in a dimly lit church. Bridesmaids in pink dresses and groomsmen in dark suits stand beside them. The altar is adorned with red poinsettias and candles, and an audience watches the ceremony.
A bride and groom walk arm in arm down the aisle of an ornate, grand church lit with chandeliers. She wears a long, elegant gown and veil; he is in a dark suit. The setting is formal and romantic, capturing their joyous moment.
A couple stands in front of a grand, illuminated church entrance at night. The ornate architecture is highlighted by soft lighting, creating a dramatic contrast with the dark surroundings.
Elegant wedding reception table with a white tablecloth, set for guests. Decorated with green foliage, candles, and a table number 13. Each place has a white napkin, plate, and glassware, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.
A long dining table is elegantly set with white plates, silverware, and wine glasses. A green garland and small candles decorate the center, creating a warm, intimate atmosphere. Gold chairs with black cushions are neatly aligned along the table.
A couple shares their first dance in a grand ballroom. The room features chandeliers, wreaths, and a checkered floor. Guests are seated at tables and a long banquet table is visible in the background. The black-and-white photo captures an elegant ambiance.
A couple shares a romantic dance under a grand chandelier in an elegant hall. Guests sitting at tables watch the scene, surrounded by sophisticated decor and a large floral arrangement. The mood is joyful and intimate.
A couple embraces closely during a dance, with the womans arms wrapped around the mans neck. They are in a softly lit room, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere. The image is in black and white.
A woman stands and speaks into a microphone at a formal event. She is surrounded by seated guests at a table adorned with flowers and glasses. A large wreath with a red bow decorates the wall behind her.
A wedding reception scene with a bride and groom seated at a table, adorned with flowers and candles. They are smiling and surrounded by friends. A guest speaks to them, while holiday wreaths decorate the walls.
A bride and groom stand behind a wedding cake in a dimly lit room. A large chandelier dominates the foreground. Photographers capture the moment as guests look on. The setting is elegant and intimate.
A woman in a white dress dances closely with an older man in a suit, who holds a pink rose boutonniere. The setting appears to be a formal indoor event. The mood is intimate and emotional.
A couple dances closely on a black and white checkered floor under a large chandelier. In the background, guests seated at decorated tables watch the dance, with a wreath hanging on a wall.
A bride in a white gown dances under a chandelier on a checkered floor, surrounded by seated guests. Bridesmaids in mauve dresses watch happily. The room is elegantly decorated with chandeliers and tall mirrors.
A bride and groom participate in a wedding tradition. The groom kneels in front of the seated bride, playfully reaching under her dress. Guests watch and smile in a warmly lit banquet hall with checkered floors and chandeliers.
Three women happily dancing at an indoor event. The woman in the center wears a white dress, while the other two wear matching purple dresses. The room has a checkered floor and a chandelier, with several people in the background.
Two men, wearing dress shirts and vests, are doing push-ups on the floor at a lively indoor event. A group of six people stands in the background, smiling and clapping, with some holding drinks. The room has elegant decor and dim lighting.
A couple in formal attire, holding hands and smiling, walks through a ballroom under elegant chandeliers. Guests in the background clap and smile, celebrating the moment.
A bride and groom share a kiss under an archway of sparklers, held by wedding guests forming two lines. The scene takes place in a warmly lit corridor with brick flooring and decorative lights above.

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