rachel + pat: married | raleigh, nc wedding and lifestyle photographer

I was excited to receive an email from my friend Courtney Hathaway back in February about photographing a wedding with her on the Outer Banks. Being the ‘beach girl’ that I am, I jumped at the opportunity — knowing I could combine my love for wedding photography with a trip to the beach. As if I would turn that down! Jeff and I went to Nags Head for the weekend and after spending a couple of hours on the beach relaxing in what was a perfect summer day, I got ready and headed over to the church to meet up with Courtney and then a bit later, the wedding party. It was such a sweet wedding — and a wild and crazy reception. This wedding party knew how to have a good time – especially the groomsmen (big shout out to Nick and Jason who were always stirring up some fun, some trouble or a little of both!). Here are some of my favorites from the day.

Cutest. church. ever. St. Andrews by the Sea in Nags Head – built August 6, 1916

The bride’s bouquet and the gorgeous blue hydrangeas the bridesmaids carried — a perfect complement to the purple dresses and details A final sweet moment between father and daughter just before they walk down the aisle ~ LOVE this little church!
We were able to get the bridal party serious…
for about 5 seconds! I <3 flipflops! – even with tuxedos ~
A favorite floral image – maybe ever.
A few details from the reception ~ The reception was held at the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island – a very cool location since guests have private access to the entire aquarium. Here bridesmaids and guests chat by the stingray touch tank ~ The flower girl was mesmerized by the rays. I showed her they would swim up to ‘visit’ if she’d put her hand on the glass…and as if on cue, this little guy came up (yes, i love sea creatures!) and posed for me ~ The wedding cake – and the groom’s cake ~ The first dance…..the ‘party’ part of the reception was held in the room with the shark tank This couple danced and laughed and had a good time all night — even the parent dances were fun and lively ~ Toasting the happy couple ~ Cutting the cake —  They started out so sweet – and then…… it was on! If you liked it then you should’ve put a ring on it (yes, really — and this is Nick and Jason)! The tuckered out flower girl ~

Congratulations Rachel & Pat and best wishes for a lifetime of happiness.

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