Late Fall: Our New Favorite Time To Say "I Do"

I have a new favorite time of year for weddings: late fall. The leaves are still crisp, the colors still vibrant but there is that magic chill in the air as the holidays approach. It's basically the perfect recipe for romance if you ask me. And this North Carolina celebration, captured by The Ganeys, has this all and more. We were sold from first glance of the berry-hued bridesmaids and the too cute for words couple, but then add in the film by Maiography and there is just no denying it; we have a winner through and through. See all right this way!

From The Ganeys... Amanda was a dream bride for us! She is the kind of girl that has every detail planned. She and Alex had anticipated their Hawkesdene wedding for over a year. To say their wedding was perfect would be an understatement. The weather was crisp but welcoming. Laughter surrounded Amanda and Alex throughout the day. The words that these two exchanged were so impactful. These two are so deserving of their love, and I couldn’t be more honored that Thomas and I were by their sides documenting the event.When we first arrived at Hawkesdene, I was blown away by the beauty. The leaves were turning as fall was coming to a close.Amanda wore a sleeved gown with lace details. Her hair was pulled back into a low bun. Her bridesmaids by her sides had floor-length berry-colored gowns that were perfect for the fall season. In their hands they carried bouquets filled with succulents, burgundy hydrangeas, and anemones. Each bouquet was wrapped with lace from Amanda’s mother’s wedding gown.Alex wore a suit with a wool vest to keep him warm. His velvet bowtie was perfect for the season. Each of his groomsmen wore cufflinks that represented their passions – video games, drawing, fishing, and tabletop games.Amanda and Alex shared their first look on the lawn and had the biggest smiles on their faces – so overwhelmed with joy that this day was finally here!The ceremony was held under a tunnel of trees – twinkle lights hanging from them, creating the most romantic scene (plus, llamas to the side, what could be better?). Alex and Amanda opted to exchange personal vows – in addition to traditional ones. The promises they made to each other were some of the most heartfelt I’ve heard.After they officially became husband and wife, we were whisked away to the top of the mountain for some champagne.Their reception space was breathtaking. Held under a white tent, the long farm tables covered with garlands welcomed guests to their seats. Each place setting had a sprig of rosemary. Their welcome book was a globe that the guests could sign and on the other end of the space, there was a lounge next to the fireplace where guests could warm up. As favors, guests took home jars of apple butter.It was such a beautiful wedding and I couldn't be happier for Amanda and Alex!

Photography: The Ganeys | Videography: Maiography | Coordination: Hawkesdene House | Floral Design: Andrews Florist | Cake: The Knot | Invitations: Minted | Rings: Blakeman's Fine Jewelry | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Watters | Catering: Hawkesdene House | Makeup: Salon El Khouri | Hair: Süße Poesie | DJ: Sound Extreme | Favors: Barber's Orchard | Officiant: Minister Dr. Randy Harry | Venue: Hawkesdene House | Bridal Boutique: Jasmine Galleria | Bridal Shoes: Badgley Mishka | Bridesmaids' Earrings: Pearl Land Jewelry | Cake Topper: alphabet canvas | Earrings: BHLDN | Film Processing: Richard Photo Lab | Garland: Wholesale Garland | Groom + Groomsmen Attire: Vera Wang Black For Men's Warehouse | Groom's Bow Tie: Mrs. Bow Tie | Groom's Shoes: Johnston & Murphy | Hangers: Dark Horse Engraving | Ties + Socks: The Tie Bar | Watch: Shinola Watch | Wedding Dress + Veil: Jasmine Collection | Wooden Signs: OAKYdesigns | Wreath Sign: The Virginia Artisans