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Weddings, Debutante Balls, Prom, Holiday Formals, Charity Galas, Award Ceremonies, Cruises, and all other Black-Tie Affairs

Village at SouthPark ~ 4310 Sharon

The Village at SouthPark 4310 Sharon Road 704.366.4523 www.PaulSimonCo.com

1230 West Morehead St., Suite 308

Charlotte, NC 28208 704-523-6987

southparkmagazine.com

PROJECT EDITOR

Sarah Fligel

PROJECT ART DIRECTOR

Alyssa Kennedy

ASSOCIATE DESIGNER

Miranda Glyder

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Amanda Lea, Michael J. Solender

published by SouthPark Magazine

PUBLISHER

Ben Kinney

EDITOR

Cathy Martin

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Sharon Smith

ADVERTISING

Jane Rodewald, Lynda Kuehni

MARKETING SPECIALIST

Mercy Clark

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Brad Beard

INSTAGRAM @weddings_by_southpark

OWNERS

Jack Andrews, Frank Daniels III, Lee Dirks, David Woronoff in memoriam Frank Daniels Jr.

PRESIDENT

Natalie Gaines Ellis.

Photograph by Kristin Byrum.

Photograph this page by Woodland Fields Photography.

Where Bridal Moments Begin

Spa rituals for the bride, her party, and every moment leading up to “I do”

Coastal charm

HALEY & NICK COTTONE

Charleston, S.C. | 3.28.25 | Photographs by Demi Mabry

When planning their wedding, Haley and Nick were intentional about keeping the focus where it mattered most: their guests. They dreamed of a celebration centered around delicious food, incredible music, and meaningful time spent with family and friends. “This would likely be the only time in our lives that every single person we love would be in the same room at the same time,” Haley says. “That perspective shaped every decision.”

The venue: Charleston is a favorite getaway for the couple, and the picturesque Lowndes Grove estate, boasting waterfront views of the Ashley River, Southern charm and golden sunsets, was the perfect choice. Its central location to families traveling from New York and Florida also made it ideal.

The vision: Haley’s fondness for New England — a spot she

visited often growing up — and filmmaker Nancy Meyers’ classic, coastal aesthetic were reflected in every detail. “Yes, that meant blue hydrangeas. With the help of planner Christina Baxter, my carefully curated Pinterest board came to life in a way that felt cohesive, elevated and deeply personal.”

Traditions, with a twist: Instead of a first look, the couple did a “first touch,” a private, back-to-back moment, where they read their own vows to each other. “I really wanted the first moment Nick saw me to be walking down the aisle — I’d dreamt of that since I was a little girl.” In addition to traditional father-daughter and motherson dances, the couple added surprise dances with their in-laws.

Thoughtful details: Haley’s bridal robe was made from her mom’s wedding dress. The ring-bearer pillow included fabric from her grandmother’s dress.

HALEY & NICK

the details:

Photographer | Demi Mabry Photography

Venue | Lowndes Grove, Charleston, South Carolina

Planner | Christina Baxter Weddings + Events

Floral Design | Festoon Charleston

Wedding Dress | Eva Lendel

Beauty | Cheryl Quinn Makeup Artistry; Brianna B. Adams (hair)

Groom & Groomsmen Attire | OMJ Clothing (groom’s custom suit); Jos. A. Bank (groomsmen)

Bridesmaids Dresses | Dessy

Bridal Attendant | Cacky’s Bride + Aid

Rings | Falls Jewelers

Stationery | Studio R Custom Stationery

Caterer & Cake | Patrick Properties Hospitality Group

Entertainment | Kiral Artists (ceremony, cocktail hour); The A-Town A-List (reception)

Videographer | Elephant Memories

Content Creator | Dreamy Content

Riverfront radiance

ALLISON & CHRISTOPHER CARPENTER

North Charleston, S.C. | 6.28.25 | Photographs by Woodland Fields Photography

When asked about her favorite wedding details, Allison finds it difficult to name just a few. “It truly is so hard to say favorites because the whole day felt incredibly like us and so beautiful,” she says. The Matthews couple, who met while attending Clemson University, envisioned a classic, joyful summer celebration, embracing the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. Beneath a breezy sailcloth tent, shades of pink, coral and blue mixed with colorful florals and lush greens. Allison and Chris’ wedding crest, along with elements from their wedding stationery, gave the dance floor a special pop. “I had so many guests come up to me and say they could not think of a more ‘me’ wedding,” says Allison.

The proposal: The night after Allison attended a concert with friends in her Indiana hometown, Chris surprised her while she and

her friends waited for a table for dinner. “Chris informed me just the two of us had dinner plans at one of my favorite restaurants nearby. We enjoyed an amazing dinner and then went on a walk which led to a spot where Chris proposed with a hidden photographer.” After pictures, the couple joined family and college friends who had flown in for an engagement party.

Special guest: At their wedding, it was Allison’s turn to surprise Chris. The Clemson tiger waited outside the chapel to help lead guests to cocktail hour.

Wedding advice: Don’t let planning consume your relationship. “Chris and I tried to make date nights revolved around planning and ones where we did not talk about the wedding. Doing both was a great balance.”

the details:

Photographer | Woodland Fields Photography

Venue | The Venues at Riverfront Park, North Charleston, South Carolina

Planner | SoHo Event Design

Floral Design | Festoon Charleston

Wedding Dress | Ladies of Lineage

Beauty | Charleston I Do

Rings | Skatell’s Manufacturing Jewelers

Stationery | Viri Lovely Designs

Caterer | Salthouse Catering

Cake | Ashley Bakery

Entertainment | Palmetto Strings (ceremony); Lovestruck (reception)

Custom Seating Display & Tent Flags | Sawdust and Sweetgrass (seating); Heritage Signs & Displays (tent flags)

Dance Floor Decal | The Luxe & Co.

Rentals | Snyder Events (tent); LIT Charleston (draping, lighting); Emerson James Rental (tabletop); Martha My Dear Specialty Rentals; Cheers Charleston; Nuage Designs (linens); Something Vintage Rentals + Design (napkins)

Videographer | Loyer Films

Asheville elegance

KAILEY (IZARD) WELSH & MICHAEL WELSH

Asheville | 4.26.25 | Photographs by Jeremy Russell

“We wanted the wedding to feel deeply personal and rooted in family,” says Kailey of her mountain celebration with Michael. The Charlotte couple held an intimate ceremony at the Asheville home of Kailey’s aunt and uncle — her grandmother’s childhood residence — and later welcomed guests for a larger party at the Biltmore Forest Country Club, a special spot for Kailey’s family celebrations through the years.

The indoor-outdoor reception featured two clear-top tents, one with an orchid-draped ceiling. “My dad has always called me ‘his orchid’ so it felt incredibly special to bring that nickname to life,” Kailey says. For their exit, Kailey and Michael drove away in Kailey’s grandfather’s first car, a 1941 baby-blue Ford convertible that he proposed to her grandmother in. Guests tossed orchid petals as they left. “[It was] the perfect ending to a night that felt completely, wonderfully ours.”

The proposal: Michael popped the question on Kailey’s birthday after a tram ride to the top of Rendezvous Mountain in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Kailey’s ring has her favorite stone, an aquamarine.

The reception: Kailey and Michael love to golf, so planner Ivy Robinson transformed the ballroom into a mini putting course. “It felt like the perfect reflection of us as a couple — fun, playful and true to who we are,” says Kailey. “It gave our guests something unexpected to enjoy and added a personal twist to the celebration.” Golf balls displayed the couple’s monogram, and custom bars and a photo-booth backdrop featured the Blue Ridge Mountains, a detail used in the wedding invitations.

Dessert: Blueberry lemon cake and handcrafted vanilla, snickerdoodle, salted-caramel and strawberry ice-cream cookie sandwiches

KAILEY & MICHAEL

the details:

Photographer | Jeremy Russell Photography

Venue | Private home (ceremony); Biltmore Forest Country Club, Asheville (reception)

Planner | Ivy Robinson Events

Floral Design | Blossoms Creative

Beauty | Cotton Rouge & Company; Doll Box Beauty

Rings | La More Design (bride)

Stationery | Atheneum Creative

Caterer | Biltmore Forest Country Club

Cake | Art of Cake; Sunshine Sammies (ice-cream sandwiches)

Entertainment | Allegro Music Events (ceremony); The Dickens (reception)

Mini Golf Course | A*Team Concepts

Photo Booth | Remix Weddings

Custom Bars & Drapes | Angelic Rutherford, Rutherford & Co.

Rentals | Professional Party Rentals

Videographer | Thomas Blake Films

Texas two-step

CLAIRE & JACKSON FIELD

Fort Worth, Texas | 5.3.25 | Photographs by Nate and Grace Photography

For Claire, her favorite wedding day moment came just after the first look and photos. “Jackson and I found ourselves sitting in our ceremony chairs just talking about normal life for about 30 minutes before guests started to arrive,” she says. “It was not planned; we just took this time to ourselves and chatted about everyday things, what happened that morning, and how excited we were to celebrate with our people. It was the best way to disconnect from chaos and remember why we were getting married — because we are best friends.”

The couple met in Fort Worth, Texas, just a month after moving there. Jackson — an oil and gas attorney — grew up in the Lone Star State, moving back to Fort Worth after law school at Texas Tech University. Claire, who works in human

resources, is from Huntersville. They chose Hotel Drover, located in the heart of the historic Fort Worth Stockyards, for their wedding. “A big dance floor and open bar were our two main priorities,” says Claire. “We wanted our family and friends to feel the celebration through dancing, classic Southern food and our favorite cocktail: Ranch water!”

The ring: The center diamond in Claire’s ring belonged to Jackson’s great-grandmother. “They reset it and made it into my dream ring.”

Married life: The couple will welcome a baby boy this summer, joining golden retriever Lola.

Honeymoon: Maui, Hawaii

CLAIRE & JACKSON

the details:

Photographer | Nate & Grace Photography

Venue | Hotel Drover, Fort Worth, Texas

Floral Design | Blushington Blooms

Wedding Dress | Georgia Young

Wedding Accessories | Manolo Blahnik (shoes)

Beauty | My Fabulous Faces

Groom & Groomsmen Attire | The Black Tux

Rings | Reads Jewelers

Stationery | Olive Paper

Caterer | Hotel Drover

Cake | Kayli Bakes Cakes

Entertainment | Royal Dukes Band

YORKMONT

WEDDING

fk YORKMONT 0

A NEW ERA OF ELEGANCE

At the very heart of your wedding day lies the venue. Where you say "I do" becomes the backdrop to a lifetime of memories, photographs, and stories. The Yorkmont redefines the wedding experiencetransforming your celebration into something deeply personal, beautifully curated, and entirely your own. Nestled in lower South Charlotte, this exquisite destination is designed to make every moment feel effortless, refined, and unforgettable.

WHERE ELEGANCE MEETS POSSIBILITY

At The Yorkmont, every wedding begins with a story - yours. The team is devoted to creating celebrations that reflect each couple's individuality, ensuring no two events are ever alike. Through thoughtful collaboration and inspired creativity, they bring each vision to life with intention and care.

For those seeking both luxury and flexibility, their signature turnkey services are designed to deliver an elevated experience for you and your guests. The Tuscan-inspired courtyard now features a stunning marble gazebo, adding a sculptural focal point that feels both timeless and romantic. Paired with designer-curated decor and accessible pricing, The Yorkmont stands as a distinctive presence within Charlotte's wedding landscape. Every detail invites you into a setting where elegance unfolds naturally.

BREATHING LIFE INTO YOUR VISION

Unlike traditional venues that follow a fixed formula, The Yorkmont offers an open vendor policy - giving couples the freedom to design a day that reflects their style while remaining mindful of budget.

From your first tour through your final send-off, their approach goes far beyond logistics. Weddings here are not simply planned - they are thoughtfully composed. The design team works closely with each couple to capture the essence of their story, guiding every detail from florals to lighting with a cohesive, artful touch. With ongoing support throughout the planning journey, each element is carefully aligned to create a seamless and immersive experience.

A VENUE FOR EVERY BRIDE

The Yorkmont offers a variety of ceremony settings to match your vision - fully indoors, fully outdoors, or a harmonious blend of both. The space includes a refined lobby with a built-in bar, private VIP suites, and a grand ballroom designed to host unforgettable celebrations.

Beyond its interiors, the venue reveals a hidden garden escape. The courtyard features a striking fountain, curated lounge furnishings, a real fireplace, and intimate fire pits - all enhanced by the addition of the elegant marble gazebo. Surrounded by lush greenery, with a nearby lake and charming bridge, the setting evokes a serene, European-inspired atmosphere tucked within the city.

For outdoor ceremonies, a pristine turf lawn paired with a travertine altar stage ensures a polished, picture-perfect moment.

"We feel incredibly fortunate to have discovered this hidden corner of Charlotte - a place that transports you into a refined, almost European world that becomes entirely your own."

To secure your preferred date, the team recommends booking 12 to 24 months in advance.

THEYORKMONT.COM

2421 YORKMONT ROAD, CHARLOTTE, NC 28217 (980) 505-5353

THEYORKMONT

Wonderfully whimsical

MILLIE & PARKER EASTERLING

Trenton, Ga. | 5.3.25 | Photographs by Kayleigh Taylor

When choosing their wedding venue, accessibility for family and friends was a top priority for Millie and Parker. The couple from Tennessee had lived in several Southern cities before moving to Charlotte — just two weeks before their wedding. They wanted their celebration to feel like “a spring European romantic weekend,” Millie says. With its French-inspired chateau, marble courtyards and Italian gardens, The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge checked every box. The invitations, florals and decor included whimsical touches, and a French menu elevated the evening. Despite thunderstorms and tornado warnings, the celebration went off without a hitch. “The reception was one big party,” Millie says. “We wanted our guests to not worry about a thing, so we had several open bars scattered across the reception hall so that everyone could be helped quickly and seamlessly. Less time

waiting around and more time to be enjoying and celebrating!”

Capturing the day: The couple wanted unscripted, documentary-style photography and videography. “We didn’t want to spend the entire day standing and posing for photos. We wanted to make it as candid as possible, and they were able to do that so perfectly.”

Bridal luncheon: Millie encouraged guests to wear colorful outfits to match the playful, feminine vibe. “I knew the rest of the weekend I was going for a more classic look and color palette, so I really wanted to utilize my bridal luncheon to do all things girly. … I really wanted to start the weekend off on a high and bright note.”

Honeymoon: Bali. “It was a lot of travel, but well worth it for the beauty!”

MILLIE & PARKER

the details:

Photographer | Kayleigh Taylor Photography

Venue | The Conservatory at Blackberry Ridge, Trenton, Georgia

Planner | Sacoya Jenkins, Jenkins and Co. Weddings

Floral Design | Echoes of Eden

Wedding Dress | Kim Kassas Couture, Bridal Reflections

Beauty | Haleigh Amend Beauty

Bridesmaids Dresses | Murlong Cres

Stationery | Gabrielle Saifi Art

Caterer | C. Parks Catering & Events

Cake | Cake Envy

Entertainment | Somersault String Ensemble (ceremony); Rhythm Nation (reception)

Rentals | The Copper Quail; EventWorks; BBJ La Tavola (linens)

Videographer | Light Cannon Films

Content Creator | Encanvas Content Co.

Whether it’s your wedding, rehearsal, anniversary, or a cocktail party to celebrate your birthday; our venues guarantee an experience in a setting your guests will never forget. mintmuseum.org/rent-the-museum

IMAGE: Alexandra Blackmon Photography

High-country chic

RACHEL & DANIEL NIX

Highlands | 3.22.25 | Photographs by Katheryn Jeanne Photography

For their reception, Rachel and Daniel — who met while attending the University of Georgia — surprised guests with a live performance from Underground Springhouse (USH), a beloved Athens, Georgia, band. “The lead singer is a close friend of ours, so it was really special to have them play at our wedding,” Rachel says. “It was so fun to see the guests’ reaction when USH came on stage.” Daniel is a Charlotte native, and Rachel grew up in Atlanta. Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands was a convenient venue for friends and family traveling from the Southeast. Daniel’s dad was also born and raised in Highlands. “It was an easy choice for us to pick somewhere with a familial connection,” says Rachel. The proposal: Daniel proposed on the weekend of the seventh

anniversary of their first date, after dinner at Limani. An intimate celebration with their families followed.

Favorite details: The couple had an interfaith wedding, incorporating a blend of Jewish and Christian elements. Rachel’s childhood rabbi officiated the ceremony. Dancing to the Hava Nagila, a Jewish wedding tradition, was a highlight. “It was so much fun to be lifted on chairs by our friends and family while they danced around us!”

Honeymoon: St. Barths

Married life: The couple, who both work in banking, live in Barclay Downs. “The walkability is great, and we love having access to so many great restaurants in SouthPark, plus accessibility to uptown.”

RACHEL & DANIEL

the details:

Photographer | Katheryn Jeanne Photography

Venue | The Farm at Old Edwards, Highlands

Planner | Katie Garnett, Mary Bell Events

Floral Design | Flora Botanical Living

Wedding Dress | Amsale, Ladies of Lineage

Wedding Accessories | SJ Bailey Co.

Beauty | Cali Stott Artistry

Groom & Groomsmen Attire | Fairclough & Co.

Rings | Diamonds Direct

Stationery | Olive Paper

Caterer | Old Edwards Inn and Spa

Cake | Mrs. Sugar Booger

Entertainment | Asheville Village String Trio (ceremony); Underground Springhouse (reception)

Destination: I do, Carolinas

These dreamy wedding locales deliver memory-making nuptials and extra-special getaways for the happy couple and their entire crew.

by Michael J. Solender

When the vision of a perfect wedding includes a romantic setting, unforgettable dining, and an intimate celebration with family and friends, destination weddings offer couples a beautiful way to have it all — with a built-in honeymoon for good measure.

Here are four Carolinas destinations where the delight of the big day lingers a little longer.

GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA – HOTEL HARTNESS

Just two hours from Charlotte and minutes from Greenville’s dining and arts scene, Hotel Hartness, the former home of a prom-

inent Greenville family, was reborn as an intimate, stylish luxury hotel in 2023.

In just three years, the bespoke property has become a celebrated Southeast wedding and honeymoon destination, earning national recognition from Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler. Hartness boasts tranquil outdoor spaces, distinctive dining venues and savvy banquet chefs who create custom menus. The hotel features 73 rooms, including four spa suites complete with Japanese soaking tubs, and a personalized approach to planning the ideal event.

“No two weddings here look alike,” says Carly May, Hartness’ director of catering and events. “We approach every celebration as a fully

Cataloochee Ranch

custom experience shaped around each couple’s vision, personality and creative use of our space. The result is a portfolio of weddings that feel deeply personal, never formulaic.”

The property sits within a 482-acre nature preserve, lending a secluded, serene sense of place sheltered by trees with views of ponds and wooded trails. The campus unfolds as a collection of intimate buildings, with a European manor-style main building anchoring the lobby and bar. A central courtyard framed by the manor’s French-inflected facade serves as the primary ceremony site, with celebrations flowing seamlessly onto adjacent lawns for entirely outdoor affairs.

Weddings accommodate up to 300 guests, with a sweet spot of 120 to 150. “We work with couples on celebrations as small or elaborate as they’d like,” May says, noting that banquet chefs develop personalized menus often incorporating ingredients from the on-site gardens and local purveyors.

Chef Jeffrey Scharlay connects with couples ahead of the big event to craft a menu unique to their style, taste and imagination.

He can adapt special family recipes, riff on classics and execute culinary feats that get guests buzzing. A recent tasting menu featured tapas-style small plates such as ancho chicken with chimichurri, olive oil-poached shrimp, open-faced bánh mì bites, bourbon togarashi-seared tuna and Charleston Gold rice arancini.

Though intimate, the variety of offerings and amenities keeps guests engaged throughout their stay. The hotel provides complimentary bikes, a spa with a range of wellness treatments, a yearround pool with bar and lunch service, and The Captain, the hotel’s cozy late-night spot, open well into the evening and perfect for after-parties and midnight celebrations.

Hotel Hartness: hotelhartness.com/weddings

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS, WAYNESVILLE/MAGGIE VALLEY — THE SWAG & CATALOOCHEE RANCH

The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch are redefining destination weddings in the Cataloochee Divide, the high, rolling ridgeline near Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Cataloochee Ranch

When the two storied properties, each with deep hospitality legacies, came under the ownership of David and Annie Colquitt in 2018 and 2020, respectively, a new era of casual mountain luxury and outdoor adventure began. Here, towering hardwoods and spruce-fir forests frame open balds and pastures just three hours from Charlotte.

Both are members of Relais & Châteaux, a distinguished network of independently owned hotels and restaurants dedicated to celebrating local culture, cuisine and a passion for excellence.

Haywood County, home to The Swag and Cataloochee Ranch, has the highest average elevation of any county in the eastern U.S., offering pristine evening stargazing at DarkSky International-certified lodging.

“We offer couples distinctive wedding options between our properties,” says Emma Ledbetter, director of dining and events. “Ceremonies at The Swag are more intimate — either a small elopement (up to six guests) or a full buyout. There are 18 rooms here, with a sweet spot of 50 to 60 guests with a buyout, including off-property attendees. Weddings at the ranch (30 guest accommodations as of May 2026) can accommodate 125-plus guests.”

The properties are about a 30-minute drive from each other and share the same side of the mountain ridge. Each location is secluded, surrounded by spectacular views that deliver storybook ceremonies and events set in dramatic natural surroundings.

“At The Swag, the ceremony typically takes place at Gooseberry Knob, one of the most breathtaking spots on the property,” Ledbetter says. “It’s a stunning open ridge overlooking the entire Cataloochee Divide, with Great Smoky Mountains National Park rising behind it. Following the ceremony, couples often enjoy an intimate dinner in the wine cellar, creating a very elegant and private experience.”

At the ranch, many couples choose the Hayloft Barn, which offers a charming rustic atmosphere often complemented by horses nearby.

“There are also views of the Great Smokies from atop the wine cellar at the ranch, which is popular,” Ledbetter says. “The ranch offers more flexibility overall — couples can marry at the barn, in another scenic spot on the property, or, for smaller weddings, in the Lookout, a private dining space enclosed by floor-to-ceiling glass showcasing the mountain scenery.”

Jeb Aldrich, executive chef at Cataloochee Ranch, showcases local

The Swag

Hotel Hartness

farm fare when collaborating with couples to craft their special-day menu.

“The people, the setting and the authenticity of our creations are the true differentiators for us,” he says. The ranch raises much of the beef it serves, works with top area producers and draws inspiration from their expansive kitchen gardens.

Finding the perfect wine is the domain of Cara De Lavallade, an advanced sommelier supporting both properties, whose access to unique, hard-to-find labels makes memorable pairings as easy as popping the cork.

An on-site spa and ample opportunities for adventure — think riding trails, hiking, picnics and exploring — round out unforgettable getaway celebrations for couples and their guests.

The Swag: theswag.com/experiences/occasions

Cataloochee Ranch: cataloocheeranch.com/groups-and-special-occasions

JOHNS ISLAND, SOUTH CAROLINA – THE DUNLIN

Lowcountry magic awaits Charlotte couples who venture 3.5 hours south to Johns Island, an enchanted setting along the Kiawah River and home to The Dunlin, an Auberge Collection property designed by

Amanda Lindroth. The resort features 72 cottage-style rooms and suites.

Destination weddings are made to measure here, with couples collaborating with The Dunlin team on intimate elopements or full-scale fetes for 300-plus guests.

“We’ve got spectacular ceremony venues that showcase the special environs of being on the inlet,” says general manager Michael DiCanio. “There’s our expansive event lawn, river barn and opportunities for multiple outdoor food stations that embrace the easy rhythms of life on the river.”

With 20 miles of riverfront and marshland trails, pickleball courts, bicycles, nearby golf, two signature dining venues and a destination spa, an extended weekend of guest activities unfolds naturally. The Dunlin also partners with Mercedes-Benz to offer guests the latest model loaners for an afternoon or evening of exploration.

Approachable luxury defines the vibe. Hosting upward of 30 weddings annually, The Dunlin has the experience and resources to make each celebration stand out.

The Dunlin: auberge.com/the-dunlin/events W

The Dunlin

The Swag

Reel-time weddings

From first looks to last dances, content creators are helping couples capture their big day with a collection of candid, celebratory highlights.

by Amanda Lea

PHOTOGRAPH BY EMILY HOGAN

Sierra Hutchison, Moments to Hold

The morning after her wedding, Riley Bond opened her phone to a digital album from the day before. Her dad’s nervous hands. Friends doubled over in laughter. “The day moves so quickly, and you forget things as soon as they happen,” she says. “Being able to look back right away helped us hold onto those feelings.”

THE RISE OF REAL TIME

What began as a niche service has quickly become a popular addition to the wedding-vendor team. For many couples, hiring a content creator is less about posting and more about preserving the feeling of the day while it is still fresh.

Taylor Hernandez is the owner and publisher of Wed Society Charlotte, a wedding media platform and vendor community. She says the rise of short-form video helped fuel the shift. “We started hearing more conversations about wedding content creators within the last couple of years, but the interest has really accelerated,” she says. “Couples began seeing weddings documented in a more immediate and candid way online, and it really resonated with them.”

That desire extends beyond influencers. Content creator Sierra Hutchison started Moments to Hold in 2024, offering real-time wedding coverage captured entirely on her phone. “It may have started with influencers and short-form videos, but it quickly became clear this was not just for people with large followings,” she says. “Even couples who are not active on social media want quick access to their memories. It is about having your whole day documented in a way that feels personal and complete.”

THE FEEL FACTOR

For bride Rachel Rabil, using a content creator felt like getting a

bonus view — a second set of eyes catching what she missed. “There were so many little things happening around us that we did not see,” she says. “The pre-ceremony jitters with my girls, the late-night dance floor moves from Uncle Billy. Each time we look at the footage, we notice something new that makes us smile.”

Content creation also helps couples share their day with guests who aren’t able to attend. Meredith Dean, founder of The Dean’s List, offers everything from true live streams to Instagram takeovers, posting updates or short clips throughout the celebration. “Live coverage lets friends and family who are not there still feel connected,” she says.

THE ART OF SUBTLETY

Heather Brown, founder of Dreamy Content Wedding Content Creators, says one of the biggest misconceptions about using the service is that it’s staged or distracting. “In reality, good coverage is unobtrusive and intuitive,” she says. “We’re there to observe, not direct. To blend in, not take over. When it’s done well, couples often forget we’re even filming because it feels so natural.”

Dean says using her phone instead of larger equipment helps her blend into the background. “People tend to be more relaxed when they do not see a big camera,” she says. “Some of the best, most genuine emotion comes from that.”

With more creators entering the space, Brown encourages couples to choose someone whose presence helps them stay grounded in the moment. “Part of our role is to remind couples that their wedding doesn’t need to be performative — it just needs to be theirs,” she says. “Hire someone you trust and then fully let go. If you’re laughing, crying, dancing and soaking it all in, the content will reflect that. And it will mean so much more down the line.”

THE SUITE SPOT

While digital storytelling is gaining popularity, couples are still choosing to use traditional vendors like photographers and videographers to document their celebrations, too. Caroline Sansotta, co-founder and managing director of Arden Film Co., says videography offers depth, sound and long-form storytelling designed to last, while content creation delivers quick access to the blink-and-youmiss-it moments. “Each serves a distinct purpose, and when layered intentionally, they create a complete record of the day.”

Photographer Demi Mabry sees that distinction from her side of the lens as well. “Photography is a delayed, timeless gift weeks after your wedding. Content creation is instant,” she says. “When couples choose both, they’re receiving the best of both worlds — the immediacy of real-time clips and the tangible images that will live with them forever.”

Planner Ivy Robinson, owner of Ivy Robinson Events, says the three approaches complement each other when everyone understands their lane, communicates effectively and sets expectations early on. For content creators like Dean, collaboration is intentional. She introduces herself to every vendor as soon as she arrives, framing her role as support rather than disruption. “I tell them I am there to supplement the amazing work they are already doing,” she says. She keeps a light footprint, gathers behind-the-scenes clips and often shares them with the other vendors so everyone can highlight each other’s work.

For Bond, having all three services gave her the fullest picture of the day. “We had a full photo team, a videography team and our content creator, and each brought something completely different to the day,” she says.

BEYOND THE TREND

As couples continue to prioritize immediacy and authenticity, many in the industry expect content creators to become a standard part of the wedding team. Hernandez says they are Wed Society’s top trend prediction for 2026, a sign of how quickly the role is solidifying.

Robinson believes the next phase will bring more structure, clearer scopes and smoother collaboration, the natural progression when a service moves from trend to staple. Sansotta sees the shift as part of a broader evolution in how couples want to preserve their memories, blending technical craft with emotional awareness so they can return not only to how the day looked, but how it felt.

“In 2026, content is king — for couples and for vendors,” Mabry adds. “We’re in the hospitality business, and part of that is meeting clients where they are. As their needs evolve, so do the ways we tell their stories.”

For Bond, that evolution is most evident in the way her memories continue to live on. Long after the bouquet had dried and the dress was zipped away, she found herself returning to the keepsakes of the day — the classic portraits, the crafted film and the candid clips that captured the feeling of it all.

“Even over a year and a half later, I still like to revisit different pieces,” she says. “Having that gallery of content lets you relive the day in new ways again and again, and to me, that is completely worth it.”

Meredith Dean, The Dean's List

Golden hour

CHRISTY

& BRIAN LAKE

Photographs by Michelle Lyerly

When Christy and Brian visited Morning Glory Farm, they felt an instant connection to the venue. “There was a sense of familiarity and warmth that felt just right,” Christy says. Then, the couple learned Morning Glory is a working farm that grows blueberries, asparagus and seasonal vegetables. “My dad owns a blueberry farm in New Jersey, and blueberries were a huge part of my childhood,” says Christy. “The property is stunning, with various areas that allowed us to host different parts of the event like the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception.”

The vision: “As someone with a strong background in design and art, I cared deeply about the wedding design,” says Christy, who works in e-commerce at Calvin Klein. She and Brian envisioned a “whimsical, romantic and nontraditional” celebration that reflected their personalities. “We wanted our day to stand out with creative and stylish details, embracing an artistic flair that wouldn’t feel like your everyday wedding.”

Food + drink: “Our reception was a true reflection of our foodie selves,” Christy says. Best Impressions Caterers replicated the couple’s favorite cocktails from their go-to spot, Idlewild in NoDa. A seated dinner featured hamachi crudo, lobster salad, beef tenderloin with truffle potatoes and homemade cookies for dessert.

Honeymoon: Mallorca, Spain. They had planned to island-hop the Azores but were met with historically bad weather upon arrival. “Instead of letting it get us down, we decided to pivot and hopped on a flight to Mallorca. We landed without a hotel booked and just winged it!”

Married life: The couple recently moved to a new home in Villa Heights and welcomed son Cooper in February.

Photographer | Michelle Lyerly Photography

Venue | Morning Glory Farm, Monroe

Planner | SoHo Event Design

Floral Design & Draping | Meraki Blommor

Wedding Dress | Sarah Seven, Lovely Bride Charlotte

Beauty | LookLove

Rings | Brilliant Earth

Stationery | Viri Lovely Designs

Caterer | Best Impressions Caterers

Cake | Marianne Tayloe Cake Design

Entertainment | Deans’ Duets (ceremony); Darrell Hoots

Music (cocktail hour); Bunn DJ Company (reception)

Dance Floor Wrap | Heritage Signs & Displays

Ice Sculpture | Artisan Ice Sculptures

Rentals | Emerson James Rental (tabletop); Nuage Designs & BBJ LaTavola (linens)

Videographer | Davidson Film Co.

christy & brian

LThree generations in the business of love

ong before it became a destination for engagements, heirlooms and once-in-a-lifetime pieces, Bailey’s Fine Jewelry began the way many great love stories do, unexpectedly and undeniably.

The summer before Ann was set to leave for college, she met Clyde Bailey Sr. and the beginning of a business that would shape generations of Baileys quickly followed. After a tuberculosis diagnosis led to an opportunity to learn the art of watchmaking, Clyde Sr. bought a beauty parlor in Rocky Mount and laid down

the foundation for what would become Bailey’s Fine Jewelry. Tragically, Clyde Sr. passed away at just 46 years old, leaving Ann with no other choice but to “keep on keepin’ on,” as she liked to say. As the first woman business owner in Nash County to be at the helm of both ownership and operation, she made history for 30 years until passing the business on to her son, Clyde Bailey Jr., and his wife Jane. Ann built a reputation rooted in taking care of people, building relationships and being a part of a community that still lives on today.

Clyde Jr. and Jane, high school sweethearts who embraced Bailey’s as true partners, nurtured both their family and company with the same care as Ann, guided by a philosophy that they would share with any happy couple who walked through their doors: “Communicate openly, be patient with each other, don’t keep score and always remember you’re on the same team.”

By the time the third generation stepped in, almost 80 years later, Bailey’s pattern of love and business intertwining was written in the stars.

Trey Bailey, the son of Clyde Jr. and Jane, and his wife Marci now run the store together, drawn to each other while studying at the Gemological Institute of America in California over a shared passion for jewelry and design. As Clyde Jr. likes to say, “Trey left to go learn about gems and came home with one.” Though neither initially planned to follow directly in the family footsteps, it became clear they could build something meaningful together.

Today, Bailey’s Fine Jewelry stands as a testament of care for

creating lasting memories and pieces that will follow families for lifetimes. For couples stepping into one of their showrooms, the experience is intentionally unforgettable.

At Bailey’s, jewelry is never just jewelry. It’s the ring someone remembers decades later, the bracelet marking the birth of a child or the necklace gifted on a milestone anniversary. These pieces become part of the client’s story, one that Bailey’s finds joy in being a part of.

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry isn’t just in the business of diamonds or gold, it’s in the business of love. And for every couple stepping into their next chapter, that’s exactly where the story starts.

705 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207

704.332.1605

info@baileybox.com | baileybox.com

Clyde Bailey Sr.

Ann Bailey

Marci and Trey Bailey

Mansion magic

JACQUELINE & JUSTIN HELOU

Photographs by Casey Hendrickson

Jacqueline and Justin met at their first jobs out of college, both working at Vanguard in Charlotte. Scheduling their first date led to a surprise: They weren’t just coworkers; they lived in the same building. “We joke that we were either going to fall in love or things were going to go up in flames,” Jacqueline says. “Luckily, it was the former!”

The proposal: Worried Jacqueline might find a Valentine’s Day proposal cheesy, Justin had planned to propose the day after, during a trip to Breckenridge, Colorado. He changed course when he learned an incoming snowstorm and its cold temps could cause the photographer’s camera to freeze. “Now that Hallmark holiday has a very special place in our hearts,” Jacqueline says.

The venue: The Duke Mansion was an ideal spot, allowing the wedding party and family to stay on-site. It also felt right to Jacqueline. Her brother passed away a few years ago and since then, she looks for cardinals. While touring the gardens, she spotted one in a tree. “I knew from that moment that we had to get married at The Duke. On our wedding day, there was a cardinal chirping in the background — you can even hear him in our wedding video.”

Thoughtful design: Planner Tina Sheets intertwined patterns and colors, creating a cohesive look that carried throughout the celebration, from the stationery to linens to matchbook favors. An espresso martini luge featured the wedding crest. The couple’s corgi, Fred, was a constant, appearing on the save-the-dates, place cards and menus, seating chart, and cake. He also joined them during the ceremony, barking on cue as the pastor pronounced them husband and wife.

Photographer | Casey Hendrickson Photography

Venue | The Duke Mansion

Planner | A Simple Affair Events

Floral Design | Springvine Design

Wedding Dress | Orla gown and Sassi Holford Sienna topper, Ladies of Lineage

Beauty | Cali Stott Artistry

Groom Attire | Custom tuxedo, Myers Park Tailors

Bridesmaids Dresses | Custom, Lula Kate

Rings | Diamonds Direct

Stationery | Olive Paper

Caterer | The Duke Mansion

Cake | Marianne Tayloe Cake Design

Entertainment | Deans’ Duets (ceremony); InfiniteSoul (reception)

Custom Seating Display | Oxum Event Design

Ice Sculpture | Artisan Ice Sculptures

Rentals | Avery James Event Rentals; Curated Events Charlotte

Videographer | Nebo Films

Transatlantic love

RACHEL & BRIAN

ORUKO

Photographs by Harry McLaughlin

It took two years and a trip of nearly 8,000 miles, but Rachel and Brian’s stateside wedding was worth the wait. The couple, who met while Rachel was living in Kampala, Uganda, made things official in a Kenyan civil ceremony in September 2023. On their one-year anniversary, they traveled to Brian’s parents’ farm in western Kenya, where they had a traditional Luhya wedding. “A few days later, after mounds of paperwork, multiple visits to the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi and years of patience, we immigrated to the U.S.,” says Rachel, who grew up in Charlotte and works as an art therapist and licensed clinical mental-health counselor. Brian is a project supervisor for a roofing company. The couple was married at McColl Center on the two-year anniversary of their Kenyan marriage. “The vision was to be able to invite people that have supported me throughout the years — some of whom hadn’t even met Brian yet — and catch them up on all they missed,” Rachel says. “We wanted the celebration to acknowledge our union as a couple but also honor the long journey that it took for us to get to the states.”

Yes to the dress: “I loved being able to finally wear a gown!” Rachel says. “At our Kenyan civil ceremony, I wore a white blazer dress.”

Special moments: Rachel’s brother and his wife officiated the ceremony. Brian’s family photos were displayed on a table since they could not attend the wedding. Instead of a guest book, guests signed a globe. They waved American and Kenyan flags during the couple’s exit.

Honeymoon: Alaskan cruise

Photographer | Harry McLaughlin Photography

Venue | McColl Center

Planner | Mary Ruth Diffey

Floral Design | Bouquet Floral Design

Wedding Dress | Jimme Huang

Wedding Accessories | Bridal by Valeria (veil); Amelie George (earrings); LunarWedding (shoes)

Beauty | Hair by Nataliya (hair); Makeup by Madi (makeup)

Groom Attire | The Black Tux

Rings | Bride’s grandmother (engagement); Braverman Oren (Brian)

Stationery | The Knot

Caterer | Plate Perfect Catering

Cake | Suarez Bakery

Entertainment | LoSo Sound the details:

Quintessential Quail

VIRGINIA & HUNTER NICHOLS

Photographs by Demi Mabry

Before Hunter proposed to his bride-to-be, he made sure to not only ask Virginia’s dad, but her sister, too. With their blessing, he got to work planning the proposal. During a picnic at The Duke Mansion, he presented Virginia with an invitation to their rehearsal dinner the following year — at The Duke Mansion. “It was perfect in every way,” she says. The Charlotte couple’s colorful Quail Hollow Club celebration included an outdoor ceremony — a top priority for Virginia — held just in the nick of time. “The storm held off until two minutes after our ceremony ended,” she says. “The thunder during our ceremony was unnerving but also felt nearly spiritual.”

How they met: Online, with their first date at Dolce Osteria

The venue: “We knew we wanted it to be easy for our local guests and to be in Charlotte, the place we fell in love,” says Virginia. “We chose Quail Hollow after my sister had her wedding there the year prior and the best experience. It was also fitting for Hunter, who played college golf.”

Personal touches: Virginia wore her mom’s veil, also worn by her sister at her wedding. Hunter wore his late grandfather’s cuff links, shaped like cigars.

Favorite moment: Surprise fireworks at the end of the reception

Favorite reception food + drink: An ice sculpture poke-bowl station. “We did personalized large ice cubes for cocktails that were so fun,” adds planner Dina Blazek.

Honeymoon: Italy – Tuscany, Bologna and Lake Como

Wedding advice: “Once you make a decision, get offline and do not second guess!”

the details:

Photographer | Demi Mabry Photography

Venue | Quail Hollow Club

Planner | Dina Berg Blazek Events

Floral Design | The Blossom Shop

Wedding Dress | Suzanne Neville, Ladies of Lineage

Wedding Accessories | Jennifer Behr

Beauty | Cali Stott Artistry

Bridesmaids Dresses | Dessy

Stationery | Arzberger Stationers; Laura Adison Designs (day of)

Caterer | Quail Hollow Club

Cake | Cake Expressions by Lisa

Entertainment | Carolina Chamber Players (ceremony); Steel Toe Stiletto (reception)

Wedding Painter | Gina Strumpf Fine Art

Custom Dance Floor | CLUXE

Ice Sculpture | Artisan Ice Sculptures

Rentals | Curated Events Charlotte; Creative Solutions; Party Tables (linens/draping); Nuage Designs (linens); Advanced A/V Rentals (lighting); D2 Production Services (ceremony A/V)

Fireworks | Pyro Shows East Coast

Videographer | Philip James Films

Best of both worlds

JI-YOUNG & JUSTIN

Photographs by Amy Kolodziej

For Ji-Young, celebrating her Korean background was an important part of her and Justin’s wedding day. Their Korean ceremony featured a vibrant backdrop that Ji-Young’s grandmother had custom made more than 50 years ago, and Ji-Young wore traditional Korean wedding attire, hanbok. “I think those outfits are beautiful, and I loved playing dress-up in those when I was a child,” she says.

Another Korean tradition, a piggyback ride around the table, was a favorite moment. “We didn’t account for how slippery my dress was going to be when we practiced. It was a little bit of a struggle, but it gave everyone a lot of laughter.” The couple, both pharmacists in the Charlotte area, also had an American secular ceremony.

Priorities: “Being able to enjoy the wedding, photography and venue,” Ji-Young says. “I always enjoyed nature photography as I was growing up, so choosing the right photographer with a style that I admire was really important to me.”

Food + drink: “We had a mixture of different guests from different backgrounds, so we wanted to have food that was both delicious and appealing to different demographics.” The couple doesn’t drink, so Roots Catering and Heatherly Event Design planners devised a signature mocktail.

Wedding advice: Hire a wedding planner and include your partner in planning and decision-making. “I can be very indecisive, and Justin joining all of the calls and meetings really meant a lot to me,” Ji-Young says. “It felt like a team project versus something I was planning by myself.”

the details:

Photographer | Amy Kolo Photography

Venue | Morning Glory Farm, Monroe

Planner & Floral Design | Heatherly Event Design

Wedding Dress | Tulle Bridal LKN

Wedding Accessories | Swarovski

Beauty | Lisa Her, Jenny Le (makeup); Simply Curled (hair)

Groom & Groomsmen Attire | Men’s Wearhouse

Bridesmaids Dresses | Azazie

Rings | Brilliant Earth

Stationery | Minted

Caterer | Roots Catering

Cake | Myra Tiamzon Abat

Entertainment | Carolina Royal Strings

Videographer | Velvet Alfredo

Spring soiree

NATALIE & JOHN ELLIS

Photographs by Kristin Byrum

An April outdoor wedding felt stressful for Natalie, yet she dreamed of a bright, garden-like celebration. So, planner Jackie Fogartie brought the outdoors in, using live trees to frame the bars and dance floor. Colorful invitations, flowers and linens — with pops of chartreuse throughout — made a bold, lively statement. Spending quality time with friends and family during the wedding was a must for the couple. “Because of this, we had a huge focus on the cocktail hour,” says Natalie, who asked Fogartie to extend it to ensure that she and John had more time with guests. “We didn’t want to miss a second of socializing for more pictures or a grand entrance … getting to have real conversations with everyone that night was really special.”

How they met: Through mutual friends at Selwyn Pub. Both are Charlotte natives — Natalie went to Charlotte Latin and John went to Charlotte Country Day School — but they didn’t meet until after college.

The venues: “We decided to split the venues between both of our traditions,” Natalie says. She grew up attending South Mecklenburg Presbyterian Church in Ballantyne, and her pastor officiated the ceremony — his last before his retirement. John and his family are longtime members of Myers Park Country Club.

The reception: The couple opted for passed appetizers and stations (fried oysters were the couple’s favorite) to “stick to that laid-back, social feel.” A packed dance floor was also a priority. “All we really wanted was to celebrate with each other, to have fun and to be surrounded by that feeling of joy by everyone in the building.”

Honeymoon: Mexico City and Riviera Maya, Mexico