Frances & Lewis’s Carolina Inn wedding took place on a warm but rainy Saturday in December. The weather actually turned out pretty perfectly as Frances loves black and white photographs and the clouds and rain really leant itself to that vibe. The fact that the rain stopped in time for the first look and group photos was just the cherry on top! After the reception had wrapped, we finished up the evening with a lovely, intimate shoot at UNC’s iconic Old Well. It was a perfect end to a beautiful day.
Here are just a few of my picks of the pics….
![A black and white image captures the charm of a Carolina Inn wedding, with two long dresses elegantly hanging on hangers. The foreground dress features a sweeping train and buttons down the back, while a simpler sleeveless dress gently hangs in the background.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-1-1-1067x1600.jpg)
![A black and white photo captures a woman at the Carolina Inn Wedding, sitting by a window as another applies her makeup. The room's patterned wallpaper and curtains add elegance, while the scene beautifully reflects in a nearby mirror.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-2.jpg)
![A close-up of a person fastening the buttons on the back of a wedding dress at a Carolina Inn Wedding. The elegant dress features a deep V-back, and the hands gently securing the buttons create an intimate and timeless scene in black and white.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-6.jpg)
![A bride in a white dress stands near a bright window at the Carolina Inn, attended by two women. One adjusts her dress while the other looks on. The room's patterned wallpaper and framed map create an elegant and intimate setting befitting a perfect wedding day.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-8.jpg)
![A woman in a white dress with a V-neckline, elegantly showcases her pearl necklace at the Carolina Inn. The background is softly blurred, capturing the essence of this beautiful wedding moment.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-10.jpg)
![A woman in a white dress gazes to the side against a dark background at the Carolina Inn. She has a calm expression and is wearing a delicate necklace.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-9-1067x1600.jpg)
![A black and white photograph captures two people standing before a sunlit window with delicate curtains at the Carolina Inn. The person on the left wears a wedding dress and veil, while the one on the right is dressed in a dark gown. They hold hands, smiling radiantly at each other.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-12.jpg)
![A black and white image captures the chaotic preparation for a Carolina Inn wedding. Four men are dressing in a cluttered room; the central figure adjusts his pants, while two others lounge on a couch and another sits on a chair. Bags, including a shopping bag, are scattered under the lamp's warm glow.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-4.jpg)
![Two men in dress shirts and suspenders are in a room at the Carolina Inn. One is helping the other adjust his bow tie. Both appear to be in a calm, focused moment. The image is in black and white, creating a classic, timeless feel perfect for a wedding day preparation.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-5.jpg)
![A group of men in tuxedos are gathered in a room at the Carolina Inn. One man adjusts his tie in front of a large mirror, while another checks his phone. A third holds a drink. The elegant decor complements the formal yet relaxed atmosphere, setting the perfect tone for the wedding preparations.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-7.jpg)
![A man in a tuxedo with a bow tie stands at the entrance of the Carolina Inn, adorned with garlands. With hands in pockets, he gazes thoughtfully to the side in this elegant black-and-white image that captures the timeless essence of a wedding moment.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-11.jpg)
![A groom stands with four groomsmen outside the Carolina Inn, all dressed in black tuxedos with bow ties and floral boutonnieres. The setting, adorned with greenery, exudes a formal elegance. This timeless black-and-white image captures the essence of a classic Carolina Inn wedding.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-20.jpg)
![A group of five men in tuxedos with bow ties stroll outdoors, smiling and engaged in conversation. The backdrop of greenery and a quaint building hints at a Carolina Inn Wedding. This charming photo captures the moment in timeless black and white.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-13.jpg)
![A bride and groom walk hand in hand down a hallway with checkered flooring and large windows at the Carolina Inn. The bride wears a long, flowing gown, and the groom is in a tuxedo. They share a joyful moment, surrounded by elegant decor. Black and white image captures their timeless romance.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-14.jpg)
![A bride and groom share a kiss in a hallway at the Carolina Inn, surrounded by lush plants. Dressed in formal wedding attire, with the bride elegantly veiled, the scene is captured in black and white, evoking a timeless feel that perfectly complements their cherished moment.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-15.jpg)
![A black and white photo captures a couple in wedding attire strolling outside the Carolina Inn. The bride, in a long white gown, walks beside the groom, who is donned in a black suit with a bow tie, as they leisurely navigate the path by the brick building.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-22.jpg)
![A bride and groom stand together, smiling outdoors at their Carolina Inn wedding. The bride, in a white dress and veil, gazes at the groom in his black tuxedo with a boutonniere. They are surrounded by lush greenery and the charming brick exterior of the inn.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-18.jpg)
![A bride and groom smile at each other while holding hands, captured in an enchanting black-and-white photo. The bride dazzles in her white dress and veil, the groom in a dark suit with a bow tie. They stand against lush foliage, embodying the timeless elegance of a Carolina Inn Wedding.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-17.jpg)
![A bride and groom stand smiling in a garden courtyard at the Carolina Inn. The bride wears a white gown and holds a bouquet of flowers, while the groom is dressed in a black tuxedo. They are surrounded by lush green shrubbery and elegant brick architecture.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-21.jpg)
![At the timeless Carolina Inn wedding, a bride in a white gown stands with four bridesmaids in black dresses holding bouquets, framed by manicured shrubs and brickwork. The elegant building adorned with green garlands sets a classic and sophisticated atmosphere.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-19.jpg)
![At the Carolina Inn Wedding, a bride in a flowing white dress walks down a hallway with an older man in a suit. She holds a bouquet and smiles. The black-and-white image captures the elegance, with a large decorative wreath adorning the wall.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-23-2000x1600.jpg)
![A black and white photo captures a Carolina Inn Wedding. At the ceremony, three women are standing, one covering her mouth in surprise. Bridesmaids in elegant dresses hold bouquets in the background. The atmosphere is both emotional and attentive.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-24.jpg)
![A bride and groom share a kiss in the elegant Carolina Inn setting, a large wreath behind them. Bridesmaids in black dresses hold bouquets on the left, while groomsmen in suits stand on the right, witnessing the couple's embrace.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-25.jpg)
![Four bridesmaids in black dresses hold white and green floral bouquets at a Carolina Inn wedding. They stand in a line facing the officiant, with a wreath visible in the background.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-26.jpg)
![A Carolina Inn Wedding unfolds in an elegant ballroom with a grand chandelier. The bride and groom grace a floral archway, surrounded by their bridal party. Guests are seated in rows on either side, deeply engaged in the beautiful moment.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-28.jpg)
![A Carolina Inn Wedding unfolds beautifully, with a couple exchanging vows beneath a large wreath. The bride dazzles in a white dress, the groom in his dark suit. Bridesmaids and groomsmen elegantly line the sides, bouquets in hand, adding to the formal grace of this memorable occasion.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-27.jpg)
![At a Carolina Inn wedding, a joyful couple, dressed in elegant attire, holds hands and walks down the aisle. The bride carries a bouquet while the groom sports a bow tie. Guests, smiling and clapping, are seated on either side as a large wreath hangs behind them.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-29.jpg)
![A black and white image showcasing an elegant Carolina Inn wedding table setting, with a menu placed on a folded napkin, surrounded by cutlery. The textured tablecloth adds depth, while the out-of-focus place card in the background hints at a day to remember.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-30.jpg)
![A black-and-white image of an elegant dining room at the Carolina Inn, featuring a large chandelier above a round table set for dinner. In the background, a tiered cake is displayed on a pedestal, adding to the formal setting's ornate decor—a picture-perfect venue for a wedding.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-31-1067x1600.jpg)
![A black-and-white photo captures a couple sharing their first dance at a Carolina Inn Wedding. They are surrounded by seated guests in an elegant, chandelier-lit ballroom with a checkered floor.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-32.jpg)
![At a Carolina Inn wedding, a couple in formal attire shares a heartfelt dance. The bride stuns in her low-back white dress, while the groom dons a black suit with bow tie and boutonniere. They gaze into each other’s eyes amidst their seated guests.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-33.jpg)
![At a Carolina Inn wedding, a bride and groom share their first dance on a checkered floor in an elegant ballroom. Guests are seated around the room, watching the couple sway under a grand chandelier, enveloped in a classic black-and-white aesthetic.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-34.jpg)
![In a dimly lit room at the Carolina Inn, a woman in a formal dress speaks into a vintage microphone, holding a piece of paper. Seated guests linger in the background at what appears to be an elegant wedding gathering. The black and white image captures an air of timeless sophistication.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-35.jpg)
![A black-and-white photo captures a formal event at the Carolina Inn, where chandeliers glisten above a man in a suit speaking into a microphone. He stands by a table with two seated guests, possibly celebrating their wedding, amidst round tables of attendees on the checkered floor.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-36.jpg)
![A black and white photo captures a man in a tuxedo raising a glass in a toast at what seems to be a Carolina Inn wedding. Another man, also in a tuxedo, sits at the table beside a woman in a dress, with a microphone nearby, highlighting the elegance of this formal event.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-37.jpg)
![Three people in formal attire dance and smile at an elegant Carolina Inn wedding. Two men in black tuxedos with bow ties and a woman in a dress stand closely, each holding drinks, enjoying the festive moment on a checkered floor.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-38.jpg)
![At a Carolina Inn wedding, a man and woman in formal attire dance joyfully. The man smiles broadly as he twirls the blonde-haired woman, both beaming with happiness. In the softly lit background, guests enjoy the elegant ambiance and festive atmosphere.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-39.jpg)
![Three people in formal black attire dance joyfully in a warmly lit room with checkered flooring, exuding the lively atmosphere of a Carolina Inn wedding celebration. One woman holds a drink, while the others smile and move energetically.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-40.jpg)
![A joyful couple in formal attire stands in an elegant room at the Carolina Inn. The woman in a white dress laughs with her arms raised, while the man in a tuxedo smiles. They are surrounded by wooden chairs and see a person standing near a table in the background.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-41.jpg)
![In the dimly lit room of the Carolina Inn wedding, guests are joyfully dancing on a black and white checkered floor. The lively atmosphere is captured with motion blur. A woman in a floral dress and another in a black dress take center stage in the vibrant scene.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-42.jpg)
![A joyful wedding reception at the Carolina Inn with guests dancing energetically under warm lighting. A bride in a white dress and a groom in a tuxedo lead the celebration on a checkered floor, surrounded by elegantly dressed friends.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-43.jpg)
![A joyful bride and groom in formal attire walk under an archway at their Carolina Inn wedding. The bride sports a white dress with sneakers, while the groom complements her style with a tuxedo and sneakers. Guests lining the path hold sparklers, celebrating their sparkling exit.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-44.jpg)
![A bride and groom stand under an illuminated gazebo at night during their Carolina Inn wedding. The bride wears a long dress, and the groom is in a suit. The black-and-white scene features trees and soft lights in the background, creating a romantic atmosphere.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-45-2000x1600.jpg)
![At a Carolina Inn wedding, a couple in formal attire stands close, facing each other under a softly lit gazebo adorned with string lights. The warm glow creates an enchanting, romantic atmosphere that perfectly captures the elegance of their special night.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-46.jpg)
![A couple stands under a lit gazebo at night, surrounded by darkness and trees. They embrace each other in a romantic setting, reminiscent of a Carolina Inn Wedding, creating a contrast between the illuminated structure and the shadowy background.](https://www.joepayneweddingphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/FrancesLewisWedding-47.jpg)
About The Carolina Inn
Nestled in the heart of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, The Carolina Inn stands as a beacon of Southern charm and elegance. Dating back to its construction in 1924, this historic venue has become synonymous with refined beauty and hospitality. The inn’s Georgian-style architecture, adorned with classic columns and meticulously maintained interiors, immerses visitors in a world of timeless sophistication. As you step onto the property, you’re greeted by a sense of history that adds an extra layer of charm to any occasion.
Beyond its architectural splendor, The Carolina Inn boasts a range of versatile event spaces. Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, the inn offers choices to suit your vision. The Old Well Room, with its warm ambiance and historical allure, provides an intimate setting, while the Hill Ballroom can effortlessly accommodate larger gatherings. The Bryan Courtyard and surrounding gardens offer picturesque outdoor options, providing a romantic backdrop for exchanging vows.
Weddings at The Carolina Inn
When it comes to weddings, The Carolina Inn transcends expectations. Its culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the experience, with a commitment to crafting unforgettable menus. The culinary team, known for their expertise, ensures that every detail of your wedding feast is a delectable journey reflecting your unique tastes. From exquisite hors d’oeuvres to decadent wedding cakes, the menu options are customizable to create a dining experience as exceptional as your love story.
For those envisioning a celebration surrounded by nature’s beauty, the gardens at The Carolina Inn provide an enchanting setting. Lush landscapes, blooming flowers, and serene fountains create a romantic atmosphere for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Whether you prefer an intimate affair or a grand celebration under the stars, the versatility of the gardens allows for a personalized touch.
To ensure your wedding day unfolds seamlessly, The Carolina Inn offers professional wedding coordination services. Their experienced team assists in every aspect of planning, from selecting the perfect venue to coordinating vendors and orchestrating the day-of timeline. This commitment to excellence allows you to relax and savor each moment, confident that your special day will be executed flawlessly.
With 185 well-appointed guest rooms, The Carolina Inn provides luxurious accommodations for you and your guests. The inn’s proximity to Chapel Hill’s vibrant downtown further enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to explore local attractions and make the most of the wedding weekend. Choose The Carolina Inn for your wedding, and let its historic splendor set the stage for a lifetime of cherished memories.
Thanks to the great vendor team:
Venue: The Carolina Inn / Planner: Mandi at Sally Oakley Weddings & Events / Florist: University Florist / Cake: Ashley Cakes / Hair & Makeup: Reign Beauty / Officiant: Heidi Gessner / DJ: All Around Raleigh DJ / Assistant Photographer: James Nix