Let’s talk about this venue for a second. Straight out of a fairytale. Have you been to Duke Art Gallery? If you haven’t been, you need to go, like now. There is no way to describe this space but straight out of a fairytale. From the stone archways to the forest tucked behind it, to the incredible stone turret where Chelsea and Chris got married. Talk about a dream!
Walking into the space where the girls are getting ready always sets the vibe for the day. Opening the door to this hotel room and being greeted by Chelsea’s smiling face, some classic 00’s pop music playing in the background and champagne in custom made glasses for all the girls was the perfect lead in to a joyous wedding day! Finishing touches of hair and makeup followed by all the girls putting on their mismatched taupe dresses (such a unique and great color!) led up to this bride putting on her dress. Let me tell you, that BHLDN wedding dress was just beautiful: lace details and an open back, finished with customized sleeves that were perfect and added such sweet personality! Very much reflective of this bride: so easy going, sweet, and fun! A final cheers and these ladies were headed out to door.
Chris was such a sweet groom, anticipating seeing Chelsea from early on in the day, and you could just see it in his eyes when he turned around to see her for the first time. First looks like this are the best! Photo proof of his beaming face, guaranteed to bring the same smile to your face, it’s just so contagious! We explored the Duke Arts grounds and captured this couple, their bridal party, and family before tucking everyone away as guests arrived via yellow school bus for the ceremony! And soon was their fairytale moment. These two were married in front of their piece of a castle, with the most beautiful greenery surrounding them and their family and friends. Tears and smiles guided them through their ceremony and into cocktail hour where everyone enjoyed some of the best hors d’oeuvres (JAM catering always knocks it out of the park with their food), cocktails, and company. A partly rainy cocktail hour on the lawn was just the beginning of the party! Everyone moved into the art gallery for the reception to begin! Guests were greeted by the art on the walls, greenery and rose centerpieces and a cheese-cake – yes, a cake made of cheese! The music came up and Chelsea and Chris entered with the biggest smiles on their faces, and shared their first dance as husband and wife. Wonderful toasts, sweet parent dances, and an amazing meal later and the dancing began! I never thought I would see a pyramid happen on the dancefloor, and it’s now something I can add to my list of ‘crazy/awesome wedding moments’. Something else that was added to that list this evening? Outdoor late night pizza! S’mores are a classic, and you better believe they happened, too – but the pizza was just next level.
Chelsea and Chris, it was such a joy to be a part of your day! Thank you so much for having me capture this joyous occasion and congratulations one more time! Definitely scroll down to view their wedding day!
Wonderful Vendors:
Venue: Duke Art Gallery
Getting Ready: Hilton Garden Newtown
HMUA: Jenna and Lia (friends of the bride)
Bride’s Dress: BHLDN
Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Show Me Your Mumu
Men’s Attire: Calvin Klein
Florist: Karen at Flower Girl Florist
DJ: Jeff at Silversound
Catering: JAM Catering
