NALLY WEDDING
THE MEADOWS AT FIREFLY FARM PRESERVE // RALEIGH, NC

Lucy and I first met at Anna + Jeff’s wedding a few years ago. We bumped into each other again at the Asheville Folk Photography Workshop when I was teaching. She then became my fall intern and dear friend. I would hear often about this wonderful man, Patrick, that she was in love with. We were just waiting for the day that he would propose, as they had talked regularly about wedding plans. 

After he proposed, Lucy was quick to tell me that I was going to be their photographer. Of course, it is an incredible honor to photograph any wedding, but it is especially for friends that are photographers.

Lucy + Patrick had gone back and forth as to whether they wanted to elope or have a huge wedding. There are pros and cons to both, of course. Ultimately, they decided that it was the most important to have everyone they love in one place, especially since their families are scattered all over the country.

Lucy’s mom passed away several years ago, and it was beautiful to see her grandmother, stepmom, and aunt step into that role to help her get dressed. She was surrounded by strong women that adored her like a daughter. 

After strongly considering a winter date (desiring cooler weather), they settled on September. Of course, it ended up being one of the hottest days of the year. I could see nerves fall off of them both as they approached each other for their first look. Even with the sun beating down on us all, there was a shift in the temperature when they were together. 

The ceremony was held in a wide open field. It was important to them to have officiants that represented both of their cultures and religions, so they had a rabbi and minister perform the ceremony together. Both Lucy and Patrick said that one of the most meaningful moments was hearing the ketubah read out loud. Lucy always told me that she felt her mother in nature. There would be otherworldy instances with insects and birds when she knew it had to be her mom. During the ceremony, there were dragonflies that circled Lucy + Patrick. I couldn’t help but think that it was her mom bringing some sort of blessing to the day.

They had planned to dig up their bottle of bourbon as a superstition to avoid rain on the wedding day. However, we ended up not having time, and there wasn’t rain on the forecast. Out of nowhere, a rainstorm burst through the field and dumped on the cocktail party, pushing everyone inside. Thankfully, it was short-lived and brought cooler air. 

The toasts were heartfelt. Her father gave an especially touching toast, speaking to all of the things he loves about her, including her contagious kindness + positivity. He ended it with a traditional German shot, having everyone join to celebrate. Dinner was sourced from the best local food, and everyone enjoyed like a family at the long farm tables. The floor was crowded with all of their guests until it was time to leave for the after party.