North Carolina Wedding Photography | Adria & Derrick

This girl, this gorgeous bride, I've been blessed to have her in my life as one of my dearest and best friends for well over 10 years. And I love her to pieces. So you can bet that when Derrick proposed, I put my boxing gloves on - from halfway across the US. Adria is by far, hands down, one of the sweetest souls on the face of this planet. Whoever she ended up marrying had to be worthy - had to be. That's just simply how I saw it! The good news is, Derrick, by all accounts seems like a wonderful match for her and her heart - and my sweet Adria is happy. So I never had to put those boxing gloves to use.

Wes and I flew into North Carolina on October 3rd to visit my family+friends for a few days before I got the epic chance to photograph Adria & Derrick's wedding on October 10th. The whole week was beautiful, gorgeous weather - sunny, mild, excellent. However, on 10/10 - it was a monsoon. I hated to see rain on the best day of one of my best friends, but - I also knew no storm cloud or raindrop could outshine her spirit, or her joy on her wedding day. And, I was right.

With seven of her best girls, her sis included - Adria prepped in the downstairs of her home church while Derrick and his guys prepared upstairs. Sunflower bouquets alongside gorgeous blue bridesmaid dresses - and one very gorgeous strapless wedding gown. Black tuxes, and blue ties. Everything was in order.

Both Adria and Derrick sadly lost a Grandpa before their wedding day - so there were some missing parts to this very special day. Perhaps, the biggest missing part, would be Adria's Dad. Derrick hung a photo of his beloved grandpa off of his boutonniere. He'd still have him near. And, Adria had something special sewn into her wedding dress. An old work shirt of her Dad's, with his name patch on the front - cut out, in the the shape of a heart. He still walked her down that aisle.

Adria and Derrick stood together with their friends and family, both present and in spirit, while the rain poured outside and they devoted their lives to one another. These two lovebirds braved the pouring rain after the ceremony and us 4 (my awesome husband helped keep us dry by holding multiple umbrellas!!) hit a grove of pine trees in which Adria LOVES (for good reason!) for some photos. And then friends, it was time to celebrate :)

A gorgeous reception took place at Carolina Event Center - decked out with a beautiful wedding cake, lots of framed family photos, warm fireplaces, and oh-so-happy people! So much dancing and celebrating, and laughter!! Adria and Derrick wrapped up the night in a sparkler send-off. And they're going to live happily ever after ;)

Adria & Derrick - Well, this seems unprofessional, but, I LOVE Y'ALL. Thank you SO MUCH for giving me such a huge honor and having me document this day!! I'm so glad we could be there and witness it all!! And Derrick,....the boxing gloves are put away, but they are easily accessed! Take great care of my sweet girl!!