Some do first looks with their family, and some do first looks with each other. In this case, some do first looks with their own four legged, furry friend. For Kristin and Brian, they actually did a first look for all three. Kristin opted to do a first look with her dad, then shortly after she and Brian shared a moment… but one of my favorite first looks of the day was the moment that she and Brian had some with their little Corgi, Leo. A few months back I had the pleasure of photographing all three of them on the Duke University Campus. Leo is one of the most photogenic and friendly pups I have ever met and I absolutely loved that he could share some time with them on their wedding day thanks to Pupventure!

This wedding day was really special—-it had just been raining and the sun decided to peek out for us. Since we had a first look, we had a lot of time to spend taking pictures around the train tracks and the industrial settings behind The Cotton Room. Because of daylight savings we had to take pictures before the ceremony; but this allowed a lot of time to relax, and make really beautiful memories.

When the ceremony started the sun was sinking and the very rosy, dim, light was peeking through the windows. The ambiance felt very candlelit and romantic. Right after the ceremony Brian and Kristin shared a lot of time with their guests during the cocktail hour. My favorite part about the activities they had for their guests was the photo booth that included a cutout face of their Corgi, Leo so that he was able to join them in their reception. I’ve never seen such an eager group of guests when it came to dancing. For almost the whole night everyone was on the dance floor wearing feather boas, kicking up their heels, and dancing like they just didn’t care! Instead of providing their guests favors, Kristin and Brian decided to use that money they would have spent to donate to some of their favorite causes: The Breast Cancer Association, and a Corgi Rescue. These are just a couple of examples of how big these couple’s hearts are. Kristin and Brian really made a huge effort to include all of their guest in celebrating with them whether it was dancing, seeking out individuals to have conversations with them, and including really funny and cool family traditions. These two clearly demonstrated a selflessness and a unity that is so very rare to see.

I am so excited for these two and I had the best time capturing their celebration and joy! Congratulations, Brian and Kristen!

Vendors:

Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Cotton Room, Durham, NC
Event Coordinator: McLean Events
Hair & Makeup: Makeup by Ashley Mooney
Cake: Ashley Cakes
Florist: Blossom Bay Design
Ceremony & Reception Music: Bunn DJ Company
Rentals: CE Rental
Calligraphy: Mason Dixon Designs