Weddings | Nancy Ray Photography

Category Archives: Weddings

Jul 29-14

Anna & Ben Wedding

Weddings ~ by Nancy Ray ~ 2 comments

If I can summarize this wedding with one word, it would be “sweet.” The tear-filled first look, the heirloom veil from the mother of the bride, the unique dress that fit Anna’s personality perfectly, the pickle mason-jar favors, the beautiful floral printed stationery, the photos on display from weddings gone by, and hands down, the best father-daughter first look I’ve ever photographed – there was a sweetness to this wedding that is hard to put into words.

Over the months that I spent getting to know Anna and Ben, it was evident to me that this couple was different. They live in Boston, so "getting to know" them usually meant a Skype chat or conversations on the phone. Even so, I felt that it was so easy to connect with them. They were real. They were full of joy. (each time I saw them, they couldn't stop smiling!) They were not afraid to be themselves. They were so refreshing to me, because truly, all they cared about was getting married to each other and spending the rest of their lives together.

At the end of the evening, my intern leaned over to me and said, "This couple is my favorite." That is the kind of impression that Anna and Ben leave - you cannot help but adore them! I’ll never forget this couple, their precious families, and the sweet atmosphere of their wedding day. Anna and Ben sure have friends and family who treasure them individually, and now, as a couple. What a sweet, sweet day!

A big thank you to Steph (a guest at the wedding!) at Style Me Pretty for featuring this lovely celebration!

Ceremony: Kirk of Kildare Presbyterian
Reception: The Pavillions at the Angus Barn
Cake Artist: Blue Moon Bakery
Caterer: Angus Barn
Florist: Flowers on Broad Street
Band: Hey Brothers
Hair & Makeup Stylist: Hairlines, Cary NC
Dress: Traditions by Anna
Paper Goods: Paper Daisies Studio
Film Processing: Indie Film Lab

Comments: 2

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Em July 30, 2014 3:13 am
What a gorgeous veil!
Ally King July 30, 2014 1:39 pm
Love this couple and this wedding so much!! This is one of my favorite weddings that you’ve photographed Nancy!

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Jul 23-14

Kaitlin & Clay Wedding

Weddings ~ by Nancy Ray ~ 4 comments

I have been waiting to share this beautiful wedding, and I am so happy that today is finally the day! Kaitlin, one of my dear friends who owns Simply Put Vintage and Kaitlin Holland Creative (she also founded the School of Styling. Yes, she is quite talented!) married Clay, who has a heart for the Lord, for ministry and for planting churches. What an incredible couple!

It was no surprise to me that Kaitlin put together one of the most beautiful and unique wedding celebrations I've ever had the honor of photographing. My favorite part about it all was the simple fact that their day was driven by love. Yes, it was beautiful, but they displayed love that runs deep in their family relationships, in their friendships, and especially their passionate love for the Lord. While the day was absolutely beautiful, the true beauty came from within these two beautiful people.

Kaitlin and Clay, words cannot express what an honor it was to photograph your wedding celebration!

Venue: The Lofts at Union Square
Officiant: Bobby Herrington
Cake Artist: Maxie B's
Caterer: Holly Tate Fine Catering
Florist: Tre Bella
Event Designer: Kaitlin Briley
Event Coordination: Orangerie Events
Rentals: Simply Put Vintage
Reception DJ: Joe Bunn DJ Company
Hair and Makeup: Make Up For Your Day
Invitations: The Postman's Knock
Bridesmaid Dresses: Joanna August
Film Processing: Indie Film Lab

Below: This had to be my favorite detail from their wedding. Kaitlin and Clay personally wrote letters to each of their guests, which greeted them at the entrance of the ceremony. Can you imagine how special that would make you feel at a wedding? I loved this small touch that meant so much!

Comments: 4

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Graham July 23, 2014 3:46 pm
Incredibly beautiful Nancy! LOVE their portraits and so many awesome details!
Chiantia July 23, 2014 7:44 pm
AMAZING!!!
Kaitlin Holland July 23, 2014 9:13 pm
Nancy, thank you so much for every single image you captured!! Not only are the photographs beautiful, but having you and Will there that day was such a joy! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Carrie July 24, 2014 12:35 pm
Nancy! These are to die for. You captured this stunning wedding so beautifully.

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Jul 17-14

Anna & Barrett Wedding

Weddings ~ by Nancy Ray ~ one comment

Anna and Barrett have waited for this day for a long time. They met for the first time in 7th grade, but it wasn't until junior year of high school that they really connected though - in French class. After knowing one another for so many years, and then dating for several years after that, one can only imagine how sweet it must have been to wake up that morning and say, "today is the day!" I personally loved their story as it's so similar to ours: Will and I have known each other since middle school, and we began dating just after my junior year of high school. There is nothing greater than watching someone become your friend, your best friend, your boyfriend, your fiancé, and finally, your spouse. The wait makes the day so much sweeter!

When I asked what made them unique as a couple, they said these simple words: "We have withstood the test of time." That is true. And honestly, that's the stuff that good, lasting marriages are made of. Commitment. Time. Selflessness. Patience. Barrett and Anna certainly have a firm foundation for a strong and lasting marriage.

What stood out to me particularly about these two is their personalities. Anna is vibrant, type "A," punctual, and passionate. Barrett is laid back, funny, charming, quiet, and loyal. I love how different they are, because they compliment one another perfectly. Not only were they smiling from ear to ear all day, but their families were celebrating with more joy and tears that I've seen in a long time. It was a sweet day of celebration!

Venue: Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club
Cake Artist: Edible Art
Caterer: Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club
Florist: The Watered Garden
Event Coordinator: Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club
Band: Men of Distinction
Videographer: Good Earth Films
Hair & Makeup: Kristin & Aubrey with Tanas Hair Designs
Cornhole Set: WG Cornhole
Stationary: The Write Image
Calligrapher: Calligraphy by Carrie
Film Processing: Indie Film Lab
Bride's Gown: Tara Keely
Bridesmaid Dresses: Alfred Sung
Bridesmaid Necklaces: Lauren Van Dyke Jewelry
Groomsmen Attire: Jos. A. Bank

Above Right : I was so happy to see Jessica and Richard again! I photographed their wedding back in 2011, and Anna was a bridesmaid then. It was so wonderful catching up with friends!

Comments: 1

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Samantha July 17, 2014 7:33 pm
Such a lovely wedding and that bouquet toss!!! Great work, friends!

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Jul 16-14

Anna & Barrett Rehearsal

Weddings ~ by Nancy Ray ~ 2 comments

Anna and Barrett's lovely rehearsal dinner was held at the Angus Barn Pavilion. It was everything a summer rehearsal dinner should be! I've never seen a bigger groom's cake, or so many sets of corn hole, or heard so many wonderful toasts. The group of friends that honored Anna and Barrett stepped up, one by one, with beautiful speeches prepared. I'm not exaggerating when I say the entire room was laughing one moment, then crying the next! (Including me!) It was such a meaningful time of sharing; it truly was how every rehearsal dinner should be. To end the evening, Anna and Barrett strolled over by the open fire pit to roast some s'mores and chat with their family. It was a beautiful evening, all around.

Venue: The Pavilion at the Angus Barn
Cake Artist: Edible Art
Cornhole Sets: WG Cornhole
Film Processing: Indie Film Lab

Comments: 2

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Jessica July 16, 2014 2:04 pm
LOVE LOVE LOVE! Beautiful night
Meggie July 16, 2014 7:44 pm
These are wonderful, Nancy!!!! Thanks so much for capturing these sweet moments

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Jul 14-14

Katherine & Chris Wedding

Weddings ~ by Elizabeth Tate ~ one comment

Ceremony Venue: St. Michael's Episcopal
Reception Venue: Renaissance North Hills
Cake Artist: Upper Crust
Florist: Greg Warren Flowers
DJ: Joe Bunn DJ Company
Hair & Makeup Artist: Von Kekel
Bride's Dress: Victorian Rose/La Sposa
Bridesmaids Dresses: Bella Bridesmaids
Bride and Bridesmaid's Jewelry: Jennifer-Betty-Jewelry
Bride & Bridesmaid Shoes: Nine West
Groom & Groomsmen Tuxes: VIP Formal Wear
Stationary: Katherine and Darden Coe

Katherine and Chris's wedding day was truly a day not to be forgotten. Every detail was carefully selected by the bride, and she and her groom absolutely relished every moment of their big day. From the sweet moments getting ready to their friends and family dancing the night away and all moments in between, they celebrated and shared in the joy of starting their lives together with a room full of people who adore them. Oh, and the weather was phenomenal - one of those rare dry, warm May days that happen before the North Carolina humidity sets in for the summer. What more could you possibly ask for?

This couple is precious. Throughout the past year, in doing their engagement session, chatting on the phone with them, communicating back and forth via email and then all day on their wedding day - I've really enjoyed getting to know them. They are - truth be told - reserved at first. But with each conversation and each meeting, you see their personalities start to blossom right in front of your eyes and you really understand why they are perfect for each other.

Katherine and Chris - thank you for allowing us to shoot your wedding. Congratulations on the beginning of a beautiful life together!

Comments: 1

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Will Ray July 15, 2014 2:28 pm
I LOVE that shot of the dress blues, up close.

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Jul 07-14

Rebecca Rose Events + Creative

Press ~ by Nancy Ray ~ 3 comments

In the past few months, I've collaborated with my talented and gracious friend Becca, founder and creative director of Rebecca Rose Events, based in Winston-Salem. She's had this secret project up her sleeve to debut along with her new website, which launched just last week! These images showcase the RRE team, Becca's creative styling, and the process of planning that she leads each of her couples through.

Let me first tell you that photographing Becca and the RRE team, along with these beautiful details, has been one of the highlights of my year thus far. Truly, working with these women in their studio was equivalent to a day full of laughter. I don't know how they do it, but somehow they are professional and lighthearted at the same time, and I adore it. They challenge me to be creative, brave, and joyful. I've known Becca the longest and have come to call her a dear friend. I am always challenged and inspired by her. I love the way she sees things - she is an artist to her very core. She loves her clients well, and she loves to create. Not to mention - she loves film. So when she began to explain the vision behind this shoot, I was all in!

Enjoy these beautiful images, and be sure to enjoy her newly launched Rebecca Rose Events and her soon-to-launch Rebecca Rose Creative!

Film processing: Indie Film Lab

Comments: 3

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Molly July 7, 2014 8:50 pm
These images are so very lovely! Thanks for giving me something beautiful to look at this afternoon! Congrats RRE!
Mary July 9, 2014 3:27 am
So lovely! I love cohesion & variety you captured for them
Kyla Fetzner July 9, 2014 3:37 am
I am smitten with everything about this! You did a lovely job capturing this brand Nancy. Your work and the work of RRE positively compliment each other

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Jul 02-14

Meredith & AC Wedding

Weddings ~ by Nancy Ray ~ one comment

Venue: Carr Memorial Christian Church
Caterer: Elegant Party Rentals & Catering
Florist: The Dutch Iris
Hair & Makeup Stylist: Total E-Clips
Film Processing: Indie Film Lab

Meredith and AC's wedding was one of the sweetest weddings I've ever photographed. I admit it - I have a thing for small, intimate weddings. Then you add the fact that this sweet wedding took place in the small rural town of Clinton, North Carolina - the town where my mama grew up - and this photographer couldn't have been happier. Then you add the fact that the bride and groom wanted to have their portraits made in a nearby cornfield, and I was just beside myself with happiness! (Yes - keep scrolling. Those cornfield images are worth it!)

I think most of all, though, my favorite thing about this wedding was how Meredith and AC didn't want a lot of "fanfare" surrounding their big day. In a world of Pinterest and blogs and details, this mindset was just so refreshing. They had meaningful details, but they kept things simple. They wanted conversation rather than dancing. They wanted a Scripture filled ceremony in the church Meredith grew up in more than they wanted a popular venue. They wanted to love on their families more than they wanted to be the center of attention. And it showed - in every way, this couple loved. They loved one another, they loved their families, they loved their guests. They played with the kids and they visited every table. And at the end of the evening, when the sparklers faded and the sky was a rich blue, I know that this sweet couple had no regrets. They had a beautiful, simple wedding, filled with a lot of love.

Congratulations, Meredith and AC!

Comments: 1

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Olivia Fischer July 3, 2014 7:25 am
Gorgeous Wedding dress and Photography !

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Jun 23-14

Emily & John Wedding

Weddings ~ by Nancy Ray ~ one comment

I could photograph Emily and John all the time and never tire of them. They are truly some of the most kindhearted people I've ever met! Softspoken, always smiling, caring, loving, and full of joy - these two are a breath of fresh air. Emily and John never focus on themselves, as they are completely selfless and loving towards one another, their friends, and their families. Even on their own wedding day, when all the attention was on them, they kept a close eye on the other - always making sure they were okay and taken care of. And walked around with smiles they couldn't shake! (John's smile is just the best. He couldn't hide it if he tried!) They are the perfect fit for one another. The focus of their reception was undoubtedly their guests, and boy did they have a good time! I've never seen such dancing in my life! 99.9% of the guests were on the dance floor 99.9% of the time. It was an exciting celebration enjoyed by all. Every aspect of this wedding was beautiful and full of joy. Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Melvin!

Film Processing: Indie Film Lab
Ceremony Venue: St. Mary's Chapel
Reception Venue: Angus Barn
Cake Artist: Sweet Memories Bakery
Caterer: Angus Barn
Florist: Warthen Interiors
Event Coordinator: Angus Barn
DJ/Band: Horizon
Stationary: PaperBuzz
Wedding Programs & Reception Favors: Paper Buzz
Bridesmaid Dresses: Serendipity Bridal & Events
Tuxes: VIP Formalwear
Bride's Wedding Gown: Liancarlo from Alexia's Bridal
Bride's Shoes: Badgley Mischka

Below: I had to include this sweet photograph of Emily's brick, right next to her grandmother's brick. These were located just a few steps from St. Mary's Chapel. I love it when couples choose to get married in places full of meaning and heritage!

Comments: 1

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Carrie June 24, 2014 11:20 am
Oh, how I love that little chapel. I spent every Tuesday and Friday in that space for four years. You captured it beautifully.

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Jun 16-14

Joel & Jordan Wedding

Weddings ~ by Nancy Ray ~ 2 comments

I knew I would love this couple from the minute I met them. What I didn't realize was how much I would come to admire them individuals, how much I would grow to love their families, how much Will and I would connect with them as friends. I have loved every minute I've spent with Joel and Jordan! They love one another deeply, they are confident and content in who they are, they love Jesus, they have friends who are more like brothers and sisters than anything else. I honestly felt refreshed after spending time with them, whether it was for their engagement session, Jordan's bridal session, or their wedding day. Their genuine personalities are so real and honest. They are the kind of people who don't try to prove anything, but their focus is always on the person in front of them. I felt so loved and cared for every time I interacted with them! I am so grateful for the opportunity to not only capture this sweet season of their lives, but to also get to know their hearts.

Before we continue on to the photos - I have to share a little bit of the story of Sally. Sally is the most adorable pup you'll see pictured below, and she played quite the important role in their relationship! When Joel and Jordan began dating, Jordan would take Sally running with her. (Yes, I also have a soft spot for pups who are running buddies!) Shortly after they began dating, Jordan and Joel decided it wasn't going to work out between them anymore, so they stopped seeing each other. But Jordan simply couldn't bring herself to say goodbye to Sally quite yet, so she kept swinging by Joel's house to pick her up to go running. After many runs with Sally the dog, and after spending much time in thought and prayer, Jordan realized she was pretty miserable without Joel in her life. They tried dating again, and the rest is history! I love how Sally was part of their wedding day. She was the special messenger who delivered the notes and gifts prior to the ceremony, even in the rain!

Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Fleming! So happy for you two.

Venue: The Cotton Room
Cake Artist: Cinda's Creative Cakes
Caterer: Triangle Catering Company/ The Cotton Room
Florist: Aldena Frye
Event Designer & Coordinator: The Cotton Room/ Triangle Catering Company
DJ: Triad DJ and Events
Videographer: Heartstone Films
Hair Stylist: Parlor Dry Bar / Aireal Christy
Makeup Artist: Brittany at Bobbi Brown
Stationary: Val Marie Paper
Bridesmaid Dresses: Bill Levkoff
Film Processing: Indie Film Lab

Thank you to The Lovely Find for featuring this beautiful wedding!

Comments: 2

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Samantha June 16, 2014 7:55 pm
Nancy, this is lovely! Beautiful images xo!
Em June 16, 2014 11:58 pm
Love the bouquet tossing shot, and the one of Joel holding Sally!

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Jun 04-14

Colleen & Fletcher Wedding

Weddings ~ by Nancy Ray ~ 2 comments

There's something about backyard weddings that just gets me. Colleen and Fletcher's backyard wedding was so meaningful and so beautiful - the perfect combination for a wedding celebration! When we arrived in Cary to begin photographing the bridal party as they got ready, it was dark and rainy. We grabbed our umbrellas and equipment and headed to the reception to drop off a few things, when we quickly learned that they moved the ceremony location to the same spot as the reception, in order to provide a tent for their guests. Although it wasn't the original plan, it was the gracious thing to do considering the weather. And what I loved most about it? Colleen and Fletcher were so easy going about it! They went about their day as if this had been the plan all along.

The location that I'm referring to spanned across 3 homes and 3 yards - all belonging to family members. It was the place that felt like home for Colleen, and it was so nice to have the gentlemen in one house and the ladies in the other. The back yards were the perfect setting for the portraits, the first look, and of course the tented reception! It was so lovely.

There were so many fun cultural elements to this wedding as well. Colleen's brother performed beautiful melodies on his bagpipe while wearing his Scottish kilt, and there were hints of Spanish words everywhere, too! I met Colleen in Spanish class in college, and since she lived in Spain for a season, it was only appropriate. It was personal and fun - everything about this wedding was charming.

Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. O'Cain!

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Private Residence
Cake Artist: Simply Cakes
Event Designer: Your First Impression
Hair & Makeup: Images by Denise
Invitations: Paper Melody's
Dress: Kitty Chen
Shoes: Chinese Laundry

Comments: 2

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Samantha June 4, 2014 2:27 pm
Beautiful, Nancy! Such a sweet wedding and I love the inside of the tent – absolutely lovely! xoxo
Ashley Relvas June 4, 2014 6:15 pm
Absolutely beautiful work, Nancy!

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Photographer, wife, and worshiper... I am a Southern girl who looks most forward to waking up each morning to drink my coffee, read my Bible, and soak in the beauty that surrounds me. These pages chronicle my work, my life, and the things that I love most. You'll also hear from Callie, Will, and Elizabeth - my amazing team who has so much to offer. Thanks for visiting, I do hope you stay a while!

Nancy Ray

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