Anyone from North Carolina knows that October is the most magical month of all. The light is warm, we beam proudly for the land of the pines, and we know whenever James Taylor's timeless tune "Carolina on My Mind" plays, it should be immediately followed by Petey Pablo's "Raise Up," which we all know as the modern day anthem for the Tar Heel State. Katya + Garrett definitely got this right on their wedding night.
I met these two as part of our UNC dental school family back at the beginning of that era of our lives. Katya was intelligent, witty, a lover of sloths, + wonderfully independent, (also a huge grammar nerd, so please, don't destroy this blog post!) so I knew we'd be great friends. A few months later, I met Garrett at Carolina Coffee Shop and he had me in tears with his jokes and laid back personality. I remember Katya telling me she never met a soul who wasn't completely at ease when they met Garrett and I can attest to this. That night, I immediately knew exactly why these two were so perfect for each other. Both extremely driven Tar Heels, their personalities allowed them to be serious when needed, but let loose in the best way possible making these two lovable + quirky individuals a strong, smart, and downright hilarious as a couple.
Their wedding day was full of love + warmth that exuded from their family, friends, and the gorgeous North Carolina October day. The Queen City was vibrant with their love as they said their unforgettable vows (you two had me in tears behind my camera), smiled in pure love + joy as the crowd exclaimed "Mazel Tov!," danced their first dance smoother than Harry, Hermione, + Ron ever could imagine doing at the Yule Ball, and partied their night away as the crowd lifted them into a traditional Horah dance.
Katya + Garret, I wish you all the love in the world. Your infectious sense of humor, love, and ability to grow together is such an inspiration. It was such an honor to document your wedding day + the love you two share! Here's to many, many years of loving each other + laughing any trouble away!
Venue: Renaissance Charlotte Southpark
Dress: Paloma Blanca
Suit: Jos. A. Bank
Florals: Shawna from Ribald Farms
Cake: Sky's the Limit
Videographer: Deano Pictures
DJ: Charlie from Split Second Sound
Makeup/Hair: Blo Charlotte
String Trio: Charlotte Strings
Photo Booth: Shutterbooth
Invitations + Hand-lettered Signs: Laney Schenk