On a beautiful day in May, Jess and Josh celebrated their wedding surrounded by love and laughter at the Renaissance Hotel North Hills. The couple’s special day was meticulously planned, and every detail came together to create a day filled with joy. Griffin Hart Davis Photography was there to capture all the special moments throughout the day, from the beautiful ceremony to the fun-filled reception. Jess looked absolutely radiant, thanks to Reign Beauty who handled both hair and makeup, as she walked down the aisle. The ceremony, officiated by Ann McKenzie, was both personal and heartfelt,...Read More

Bridget and Elliot’s fall wedding at Vidrio in downtown Raleigh was nothing short of stunning. With its vibrant colors, cascading lights, and warm ambiance, the venue set the perfect backdrop for a celebration full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Bridget and Elliot were able to soak in every second of their day thanks to an incredible vendor team. The ceremony, officiated by Rev. Kayelily Middleton, was heartfelt and personal, with touches that reflected the couple’s unique story. Wedded Kiss worked their magic, making sure Bridget looked and felt her best, with a natural an...Read More

On a beautiful day in Raleigh, Elisabeth and Bryan celebrated their wedding at the Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley. The day was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories, all captured by Ben Belt Photography. Elisabeth looked radiant, thanks to hair and makeup by Perfection by Patricia, and Bryan couldn’t have been happier seeing her walk down the aisle. Their meaningful ceremony was officiated by a close , creating a touching moment for all their loved ones. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a lively reception with catering and bar service provided by the Raleigh Marr...Read More

As the fall leaves begin to change their color, we fondly remember last November when Kaitlin and Ryan tied the knot in an intimate ceremony at the charming Colonial Inn. The crisp fall air set the perfect backdrop for their celebration, and the rustic charm of the venue created a warm and inviting atmosphere for the couple and their guests. Mackenzie Kern Photography captured every special moment, from the quiet anticipation before the ceremony to the joy and laughter that filled the reception. The day began with Glam by Ash Marie working their magic, ensuring Kaitlin looked beautiful as she ...Read More

On a beautiful July day, Anna and Jordan tied the knot at The Bradford, surrounded by the love and joy of their closest family and friends. Anna looked stunning with hair and makeup by Wink Hair and Makeup, and Jordan couldn’t take his eyes off her as she walked down the aisle. The heartfelt ceremony was led by their officiant from Saint Luke Lutheran Church – Ocean Isle and featured ceremony music by Andrew Rutledge. The reception was a lively celebration with delicious food from Cook Shack, a beautiful cake by The Secret Baker, and elegant floral arrangements by Petal and Oak. Bu...Read More

Marcus and Claire’s wedding day was a heartwarming celebration filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments that highlighted their wedding theme of “opposites attract.” Held at the stunning Carolina Grove, their special day was captured by One Vision Photography. The ceremony, officiated by Reginald Harris, took place in the picturesque surroundings of Carolina Grove. Claire looked radiant with hair and makeup done by the talented team at Wink Hair + Makeup, while Marcus looked dapper and ready to say “I do.” After the heartfelt vows, guests transit...Read More

Janae and Itai celebrated their love with an intimate December wedding at The Graham Mill. It was a cozy gathering, filled with love, laughter, and personal touches that made the day truly special. Their ceremony led by Rabbi Jen Feldman of Kehillah Synagogue was both heartfelt and meaningful, blending traditional elements of their Jewish and South Pacific heritages to make it incredibly unique and perfect for Janae and Itai. Behind the scenes, a fantastic team of vendors made the day run smoothly. Il Divo Salon did a beautiful job with hair and makeup, ensuring Janae looked stunning. Sassool ...Read More

Kirsten and Gic-Owens’ wedding day was a perfect blend of elegance and charm. The Duke University graduates’ March celebration began with a beautiful ceremony at the iconic Duke University Chapel, followed by a lively reception at The Rickhouse. Surrounded by their loved ones in their favorite college town, Kirsten and Gic-Owens created unforgettable memories that radiated both love and joy. Duke University Chapel provided a breathtaking backdrop for their ceremony, officiated by Fr Juan José Hernández of Duke University Catholic Center. Kirsten looked stunning, thanks to the tal...Read More

Raza and Sarah’s long-awaited wedding day unfolded in the heart of Raleigh at Market Hall, where they were joined by their cherished family and friends to celebrate their union. Arika Jordan Photography was there again to capture every precious moment with grace and artistry. The day flowed seamlessly, allowing Raza and Sarah to savor every moment of their special day. With the perfect backdrop for their ceremony, Sarah walked down the aisle in her gorgeous gown and beautiful glow by Wedded Kiss, who ensured she looked nothing short of breathtaking. The wedding party sported beautiful bl...Read More

Raza and Sarah’s pre-wedding festivities took on a vibrant and culturally rich form as they celebrated a traditional Pakistani Mehndi, meticulously organized by the Mother of the Groom with the help of Chestnut & Vine’s owner, Erin. This event served as a bridge between Raza’s Pakistani heritage and Sarah’s Jewish family and friends, setting the stage for a wonderful celebration. Embracing the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine, guests indulged in a feast of traditional dishes complemented by Chai tea and delightful desserts. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitem...Read More

Chad and Ally’s October wedding at Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley was an unforgettable affair, brought to life by a fantastic team of vendors who worked tirelessly to make their dreams a reality. Casey Rose Photography expertly captured every moment, ensuring that the love and joy of the day would be cherished for years to come. Sarah and Brandon Films added a cinematic touch, crafting a beautiful video that would serve as a timeless keepsake for the couple. At the gorgeous Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral with Rev. Manuel Joseph Chirchop officiating, Chad and Ally exchanged heartfelt vows...Read More

Riley and Riley (yes, you read that right – both of their names are Riley!) tied the knot on December 1st at The Bradford, surrounded by loved ones and a stellar team of vendors who made their day truly unforgettable. Sarah Lessley Photography perfectly captured the essence of these high school sweetheart’s special day. Walter Rodriguez led a heartfelt ceremony that reflected the couple’s love and commitment, while Poppy Flowers brought their vision to life with stunning floral arrangements. Curated Events provided elegant rentals that transformed the venue into a personalize...Read More

Hannah and Gabe’s May wedding day at The Bradford was a breathtaking fusion of cultures, celebrating their Korean, Brazilian, and Japanese heritages. The beauty of their day was in the union of two hearts and also in the coming together of diverse traditions that helped shape a truly special celebration. The Bradford, with its picturesque settings, provided the perfect backdrop for this affair. Hannah and Gabe, alongside their wedding team, orchestrated a day that was vibrant and heartfelt. The Axtells: Wedding Photography and Films captured the essence of the day, while D.C. florist (an...Read More

Kaitlin and Ryan’s wedding day was a beautiful November affair held at The Colonial Inn. With a stellar team of vendors ensuring every moment was picture-perfect, their day went off without a hitch! An amazing time was had by all as family and friends watched these two native Illinoisan love birds tie the knot in their new home state of North Carolina. Kaitlin and Ryan exchanged vows in a heartfelt ceremony filled with love and laughter. Glam by Ash Marie worked her magic, ensuring the bride looked and felt her best on their big day while Triangle Sound Service ensured that every word sp...Read More

On a beautiful October day, Leah and Tyler got hitched at the NC Museum of Art with a fabulously unique Studio 54-inspired theme. It was the kind of day that was all about love, memories, and some really special personal touches. The most heartwarming part? Leah decided to wear her mom’s wedding dress, but with a redesign to make it her own. It was a sweet nod to her mom, who was very much there in spirit. Both Tyler and Leah’s dad rocked boutonnieres with a silk rose made from Leah’s mother’s dress fabric, too, which was an incredibly special touch. The whole day felt ...Read More

On a crisp October eve, just before Halloween, Kevin and Hellena exchanged vows at Raleigh’s historic All Saints Chapel, weaving their unique essence into the fabric of their special day. With Sophisticated Florals by Stephanie providing the florals and the centerpieces designed by the groom himself, the atmosphere was a blend of autumnal elegance and personal touches that mirrored the couple’s personality. Hellena, styled by The Bardot, was the epitome of bridal beauty, while Kevin awaited her presence with love and anticipation. The ceremony, led by Hellena’s brother, Antho...Read More

This past spring, Llala and Zach celebrated their wedding on a beautiful day at The Grove at City Market. Their unforgettable day began with a heartfelt ceremony officiated by Jake Edgar.  Llala looked stunning walking down the aisle, with hair and makeup by Pinup Bridal, with incredible florals by Petal and Oak. The newlyweds marked the start of their reception with a romantic first dance, followed by dinner courtesy of Market Hall’s in-house catering. And let’s not forget the sweet indulgence of cake from Publix Supermarket at Peace Street and COOKIES from Crumbl Cookies! CWDJ E...Read More

Irwin and Josh celebrated their summer wedding at the North Carolina Museum of Art on a lovely June day. They began with a quiet and intimate first look, capturing a special moment between them. The couple exchanged their vows in a simple ceremony officiated by Reverend Susie Savinon amongst their family and friends. Irwin and Josh’s unique style was sprinkled throughout their day, and Victoria Blalock Photography did an extraordinary job of capturing this. Irwin looked radiant with the help of Blushed Bridal, which complemented her elegant gown. The success of their special day was th...Read More

Sarah and Gene were blessed with a picturesque May day as they celebrated their wedding at The Bradford. The day kicked off with their first look captured beautifully. Afterward, the couple exchanged their vows in an enchanting outdoor ceremony, surrounded by their closest family and friends, and officiated by the bride’s uncle Ed. Every wedding detail was carefully curated to reflect the essence of Sarah and Gene as a couple, from the floral arrangements to the stunning outdoor cocktail hour on the terrace. Sarah looked radiant with her hair and makeup elegantly styled by Rei...Read More

Kaycee and Zeb at The Bradford from Mark Maya Photography on Vimeo. Just like the awesome couple they are, Kaycee and Zeb’s wedding day at The Bradford was full of personality, enthusiasm and fun! A talented team of vendors worked behind the scenes to create a perfect and memorable day for Kaycee and Zeb.  We could not have had more fun working with this awesome couple!  Chestnut & Vine’s own Design Coordinator, Alexis Sigmund, worked closely with Kaycee to design a gorgeous black and white motif complete with clouds of baby’s breath expertly crafted by The ...Read More

Jaime and Niki were all smiles celebrating their May wedding day at The Rickhouse and weren’t about to let a few raindrops dampen the festivities. These beautiful brides shared a special first look before sharing their vows in a lovely ceremony led by Greg Johnson. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, Chestnut & Vine’s favorite pair of Middle School teachers followed their ceremony with a touching first dance and then were serenaded during dinner by a close friend whose rendition of “Proud Mary” brought the house down.  Once the cake was cut, the dance ...Read More

Valerie and Noah had the most beautiful fall day to celebrate their matrimony. The true definition of a Greek Orthodox wedding, with a family-oriented feel from start to finish, this couple had everyone smiling along with them throughout the afternoon and night. The gorgeous bride had her hair done by the talented Hairstyling by Aly Scherer and her makeup done by Makeup by Theresa. The first look with her father was absolutely touching, prior to Valerie and Noah’s ceremony at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Their ceremony was followed by an incredible reception at The NC Museum o...Read More

Alex and Campbell at The Parlour at Manns Chapel (Chapel Hill, NC) from Mark Maya Photography on Vimeo. This video perfectly encapsulates the beautiful day shared between Campbell and Alex. Every last detail, including Campbell’s gorgeously unique dress, allowed their personalities to shine through and through. The Parlour at Manns Chapel served as the perfect location for their nuptials, and Mark Maya Photography did an excellent job capturing the day in both pictures and video. Sanctuary Spiritual Care led the ceremony, while Color and Fluff Salon (Hair) and Jessica Ly (Makeup) made s...Read More

Ania and Phil couldn’t have asked for a more perfect November day to celebrate their wedding at The Bradford. An absolutely touching first look of the couple was captured before they shared their vows at an outdoor ceremony under the gorgeous floral arch led by the couple’s dear friend Steve Lawson. Another priceless and unforgettable moment was when their adorable niece drove down the aisle as their flower girl in a white decorated Power Wheels (which was controlled via remote control by her dad). The couple paid attention to every detail from the florals to the menu cards to ensu...Read More

Brittany and Eric tied the knot at their intimate, April Market Hall wedding. With beautiful details and touches throughout their day, this couple was married by their dear friend Prince who also introduced them! Pops of purple rang through their gorgeous florals by Fallons Flowers and linens by CE Rental. Brittany’s gorgeous hair and makeup were done by Ari Zarawani and Courtney Caroll respectively. The bride and groom shared their ceremony with a close group of family and friends, followed by a wonderful and fun reception for all. With in-house catering and bar service, the entertainm...Read More

Reggie and Jasmine’s day was an intimate and dreamy celebration for this gorgeous couple. Emotions were high for this couple, from the bride’s first look with her father, to the groom seeing his beautiful bride walking down the aisle for the very first time. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, Reggie and Jasmine’s ceremony and reception took place at The Bradford. Jasmine looked stunning in her gown along with her hair by Karen Hester Hair and makeup by Adorn Beauty LLC. The florals and decor were the perfect touches to kick off their perfect April day. Delici...Read More

Teri and Ashley’s day was absolute perfection for two teachers starting their summer! Surrounded by their closest family, friends, and coworkers, this amazing couple shared their vows alongside their children, who made up their wedding party. Teri and Ashley wanted this day to be about their marriage, but also it was a special thank you to their coworkers for all of their love and support. Their intimate ceremony and reception took place at The Stockroom at 230, with the ceremony led by Rev. Kayelily Middleton. The details of their day included a custom chalkboard design by Domestic Odde...Read More

Loftin and Lyle had an absolutely perfect (almost) summer day for their celebration! With over 350 guests and two wonderful families coming together, this couple sported two big smiles all day long. Their day began with the bride and groom getting ready among their closest family and friends. Loftin and Lyle each made their way to the Christ Episcopal Church, where Loftin and her father had a special father/daughter first look before the ceremony. Once the shuttles arrived with all of their guests, a beautiful ceremony ensued. After the knot was tied and photos were taken, it was off to their ...Read More

What a ride to Nina and Mac’s special day, which ended up being nothing short of perfect! The couple started out with big plans for a wedding with over 200 guests at their alma mater, Duke University. As we were working together toward their beautifully imagined day, along came the pandemic, which completely changed everything. Unsure of what to do, and with only a couple of months to go, the couple pivoted to their new plan with grace. Their whole new plan for a wedding day at Chapel Hill turned out to be the intimate day they always wanted. Their incredible day began with a ceremony at...Read More

Bagpipes, kilts, and a beautiful October day made for an incredible Scottish-inspired wedding celebration for Adrianne and Ryan. With a bagpipes led processional, Reverend Anne McKenzie went on to marry these two during their ceremony at Market Hall. Adrianne made a stunning bride, with hair and makeup by Silverceiling Beauty Consulting. Ryan sported a traditional kilt to incorporate his routes into their special day. After taking some time to capture some exceptional photos outside and around the venue, Adrianne and Ryan kicked off their reception with their first dance, father/daughter dance...Read More

Angela and Andy’s day was nothing short of colorful and perfect! Surrounded by their closest family and friends, in just 6 short weeks this incredible couple brought together an all-star vendor team for their unique and intimate day. Every detail was thoughtful and original, and, as the first wedding to be held  at Market Hall‘s The Grove at City Market, was one that we will always remember! Angela’s gorgeous dress complimented her eye-catching florals by Bloom Works, and each part of their overall design was seamless. A gorgeous cake by Love Cake with lovely seating areas ...Read More

Danielle and Tanner’s day did not disappoint as they brought their love story back to Raleigh, where they met and went on their first date! Both attended UNC-Chapel Hill, but didn’t connect until years later. Tanner proposed in Austin, TX where the couple now lives. Not only is this couple picture-perfect, but this beautiful couple also couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful wedding day. Elegant Ensembles was heard playing as guests arrived for Danielle and Tanner’s Sunday afternoon ceremony at The Maxwell. The intimate ceremony was led by Eduardo Tanaka, surrounded b...Read More

Just over a year ago, Makenna and Dan celebrated their wedding day on a beautiful sunny Saturday in May at The Bradford. Their special day began with a gorgeous and intimate ceremony on the lawn presided over by Rev. Kevin Holland before their picturesque wooden hexagon arch. After hearing Rev. Holland’s retelling of the couple’s heartfelt love story, guests were invited to attend a cocktail hour filled with lawn games and Makenna and Dan’s fun signature drinks for their guests – Mango Margaritas and Whiskey Ginger Mojitos! The newlyweds kicked off their reception with ...Read More

Cristi and Ryan were all smiles on their gorgeous wedding day, despite COVID trying to make its mark in North Carolina (and everywhere else in the world). The entire celebration was held at the industrial Market Hall in Downtown Raleigh where pre-wedding preparations, ceremony, and reception would all take place. The day started with Cristi and her bridesmaids getting their hair and makeup done by Megan Murray Hair and Ellevated Beauty before Ryan and his groomsmen arrived to get ready in another part of the venue. Once everyone was ready, Foxtail Photography captured the first looks and wedd...Read More

FRIENDOR FEATURE SERIES feat. Willis J Entertainment Website: www.willisjentertainment.com Instagram: @willisjentertainment Services/Products Offered: Wedding DJ Services/ Mobile DJ Services Number of Years in Business: 5 Number of Members on Team: 3 Describe the experience you want your clients to receive when working with you and your company: What I love for my clients to know is that this is an experience. We don’t take it lightly that a bad DJ can ruin the whole wedding, but a good DJ can turn it into a real event!  What are some questions that couples should ask when interviewin...Read More

FRIENDOR FEATURE SERIES feat. Personal Weddings of North Carolina Website: www.personalweddingsnc.com Instagram: @personalweddingsnc Services/Products Offered: Officiant Number of Years in Business: 25 Number of Members on Team: 1 Describe the experience you want your clients to receive when working with you and your company: I am much more than a vendor with my couples. My goal is to be their friend, mentor, and helper throughout the ceremony planning process. I don’t use pre-scripted ceremonies or templates. All ceremonies are completely custom and created only after getting to know th...Read More

There are so many elements that go into planning and preparing for everything leading up to your wedding day. It can be difficult to remember every little detail on your ever-growing list of things to do, and finding a gift for your future mother-in-law is probably not at the top of that list. That’s why we have put together a collection of creative and meaningful gifts from local businesses that are perfect for all your gift-giving needs! From your wedding party to your parents and in-laws to even your wedding guests – these gift ideas are sure to please each of your loved ones (and relie...Read More

The music you choose for your wedding is what sets the tone for every moment of your big celebration. However, trying to find the perfect songs for your special day can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a list of song and soundtrack options for you to use throughout your entire wedding! From the moment you walk down the aisle to tearing it up on the dance floor, we’ve selected a variety of meaningful and entertaining songs to make your wedding day unique to you and memorable for everyone! This week we are featuring RECEPTION SONGS: Fun/Upbeat Songs for All ...Read More

The music you choose for your wedding is what sets the tone for every moment of your big celebration. However, trying to find the perfect songs for your special day can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a list of song and soundtrack options for you to use throughout your entire wedding! From the moment you walk down the aisle to tearing it up on the dance floor, we’ve selected a variety of meaningful and entertaining songs to make your wedding day unique to you and memorable for everyone! This week we are featuring CEREMONY PROCESSIONAL SONGS:    ...Read More

The music you choose for your wedding is what sets the tone for every moment of your big celebration. However, trying to find the perfect songs for your special day can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a list of song and soundtrack options for you to use throughout your entire wedding! From the moment you walk down the aisle to tearing it up on the dance floor, we’ve selected a variety of meaningful and entertaining songs to make your wedding day unique to you and memorable for everyone! This week we are featuring FATHER/DAUGHTER and MOTHER/SON SONGS: Fat...Read More

FRIENDOR FEATURE SERIES feat. Wedded Kiss | Nina McCaskey, Owner Website: weddedkiss.com Instagram: @weddedkiss Services/Products Offered: Hair and makeup for weddings, events, shoots, and more! Number of Years in Business: 14 total; 6 as Wedded Kiss Number of Members on Team: 9 Describe the experience you want your clients to receive when working with you and your company: We strive to do not only gorgeous work but create a very fun experience while getting glammed up! What are some questions that couples should ask when interviewing you and other companies that offer services in your line o...Read More

Chestnut & Vine’s “Friendor” Feature Series feat. ELIZABETH ASHLEY & CO. | E. Ashley Green, Owner Website: www.elizabethashleyco.com Instagram: @elizabethashleyco       Services/Products Offered: Wedding Photography, Engagement Sessions, Bridal Sessions, Boudoir Sessions, Branding & Lifestyle Sessions. Number of Years in Business: 10 Number of Members on Your Team: 10 Describe the experience you want your clients to receive when working with you and your company: We want you to feel like our only client. We customize each session and package just f...Read More

The music you choose for your wedding is what sets the tone for every moment of your big celebration. However, trying to find the perfect songs for your special day can be a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a list of song and soundtrack options for you to use throughout your entire wedding! From the moment you walk down the aisle to tearing it up on the dance floor, we’ve selected a variety of meaningful and entertaining songs to make your wedding day unique to you and memorable for everyone! This week we are featuring FIRST DANCE SONGS:   1.   Conversa...Read More

College friends who fell in love after reuniting several years after graduation, Ashley and Ethan knew that they wanted to throw a party for the ages to celebrate their marriage, and they succeeded in showing their family and friends an unforgettable wedding day.  The sun shined brightly on the stunning grounds of The Bradford, a European countryside inspired wedding venue located in New Hill, NC, as did the smiles of the bride, groom and their wedding party.  Ashley and Ethan’s charismatic personalities were evident in every aspect of their wedding, from the personalized wedding party gi...Read More

Duke University has always held a special place in Sarah’s heart.  Having parents who attended Duke University and got married in Duke Chapel, she was raised on Duke Basketball and always looked forward to family trips to visit the gorgeous campus famous for its gardens and gothic buildings.  So when Sarah and Patrick decided to take a short detour to Durham, NC during a road trip from Florida to New York so that Patrick could see the campus for the first time, Patrick knew that Duke Gardens was the perfect place to propose to the love of his life. Just over a year later, Sarah and Pa...Read More

As soon as I met Erin and Mike, I knew they were a friendly, upbeat couple who were going to throw an unforgettably fun wedding, and they did not disappoint!  The fact that the couple first met on St. Patrick’s Day made me love them even more! Erin and Mike were married before their family and friends at Holy Name of Jesus Cathedral in Raleigh, NC, whose stunning sanctuary rivals the best cathedrals in Europe. After taking post-ceremony photos around Raleigh with their wedding party and sweet dachshund, Snickerdoodles, the newlyweds joined their guests at The Fairview for a Woodland ins...Read More

When it comes to weddings, everyone has an opinion, especially family members.  Many times older generations think all weddings should keep to the traditions from their eras, while the engaged couple wants to have a wedding that is modern and unique to them.  Holly and Chris found the perfect compromise by seamlessly blending their families’ Chinese traditions with modern elements that expressed the couple’s distinct personalities.   The importance of family was evident throughout Holly and Chris’ wedding day at The Barn of Chapel Hill in Chapel Hill, NC.  While standing before an e...Read More

This week I had the honor of being a guest on the popular Weddings for Real Podcast hosted by Megan Gillikin, owner of A Southern Soiree Wedding & Event Planning.  I had so much fun talking with Megan about how Chestnut & Vine came to be and my approach to day-of wedding coordination.  I even got to share a bit about my destination wedding to exotic Indiana and the time I had to coordinate 5 different transportation companies for the guests of a single wedding. You can listen to our conversation here! ...Read More

Chestnut & Vine Day-of Wedding Coordination is excited to announce that our clients Samantha & Parker’s gorgeous Spring wedding at Merrimon-Wynne is featured on two online publications!  A huge thank you to Ellen LeRoy Photography for submitting her stunning photos for these articles on Borrowed & Blue, Elysian Bride and The Carolinas Magazine.  It has been a joy to relive Samantha & Parker’s special day! ...Read More

As soon as I met Emily and Kyle, I knew that these two were already a strong, supportive team, and when they became husband and wife on October 8, 2016 at The Matthews House in Historic Downtown Cary, NC, it was obvious to all in attendance that these newlyweds have what it takes to weather through any storm that crosses their path. Despite an uninvited wedding guest, who went by the name Hurricane Matthew, Emily and Kyle threw a festive, heartfelt wedding celebration that their family, friends and day-of wedding coordinator will never forget.  Not once did the bride and groom let the st...Read More

  When I met Kristi and Doug at the April 2015 Southern Bridal Show at the NC State Fairgrounds, I knew immediately that I wanted to work with this lovely, sweet natured couple.  Doug’s willingness to attend a bridal show with his winsome fiancée spoke volumes for how much this couple loves each other and will work well together as a team.  So, I was thrilled when they chose Chestnut & Vine to be their day-of wedding coordinator. Their story began when Kristi, who met Doug during her employee orientation at Duke Hospital, invited him to attend Sunday mass with her at the...Read More

I often wondered if I’d ever see today. My beloved Chicago Cubs are playing in the World Series for the first time in 71 years, and I could not be more thrilled to see this dream come true.  Over 30 years ago my dear friend, Marnie (who was a bridesmaid in my wedding), introduced me to a handsome 2nd baseman named Ryne Sandberg, and thus began my first longterm relationship filled with feelings of hope, admiration, heartbreak, disappointment, joy, and blind faith that better days are just a spring training season away.  As a kid I collected baseball cards, rarely missed a Cubs game ...Read More

In April 2015 at my first ever wedding show, I had the good fortune to meet Samantha and her Mom, Bonita.  They came to the wedding show specifically to find a day-of wedding coordinator, and the three of us hit it off immediately!  Samantha was a day-of wedding coordinator’s dream because when we met for our initial meeting she had already booked her venue, florist, band, photographer, and purchased her dress – and her wedding was still 13 months away!  Over the next year I had the pleasure of getting to know Samantha and her fiancé, Parker, while helping them coordinate t...Read More

Happy Halloween!  Oh how I loved this day when I was a kid running from house to house with my friends through leaves that came up to our ankles refusing to take a break until we  hit every candy bowl in the neighborhood.  I still get a rush when we take our girls trick-or-treating.  My step-daughters think I sound like a drill sergeant when I tell them to pick up the pace and hustle up those steps to the front door.  And how fun were our grade school Halloween parties?  Large rooms full of dressed up kids with treat bags in one hand, gigantic lollipops in the other and enormous  jars o...Read More

On June 21st, Jason and I will be celebrating our one year anniversary. (Woo hoo!) HOW IN THE WORLD DID TWELVE MONTHS GO BY SO QUICKLY?!  Unlike many couples who celebrate their first year with a romantic getaway for two, our anniversary will be a family affair that includes my two step-daughters, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  After all, I had the good fortune of becoming both a wife and a step-mom when I said “I do” one year ago. Sophia – Age 10 Carina – Age 7 I am blessed to have two loving step-daughters who instantly accepted me into their lives, and I wanted...Read More