Melissa Kay Photography » joyful wedding photography

Oct 24 2010

Meghan + Alan | Duke Gardens Wedding

Meghan and Alan received the most perfect October weather possible for their Duke Gardens wedding on Saturday. The ceremony was performed in the amphitheater behind the Doris Duke Center and the reception was help inside the center.

You guys, I am so glad that your day turned out to be so amazing. I have loved getting to know you over the past year and wish you so much happiness!

Alan surprised Meghan by sending a limo to pick the girls up. Since we had a little extra time, we headed to downtown Durham for a few photos before the ceremony.

Meghan told me that she, her brothers, and her dad have a very close, unique relationship, and once I saw them out on the dance floor, I knew what she meant. During the reception, DJ Tyler of Anything Music played a fun Shout-The Train-Lady Gaga trifecta that had everyone dancing. Watching Meghan and her dad dancing together, radiating so much joy, was awesome, and being able to capture moments like those is the reason I love being a wedding photographer.

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Oct 18 2010

Amanda + Ross | Hilton Wedding

Ross and Amanda’s ceremony took place on Saturday in a sweet little courtyard at the Hilton in RTP. Amanda is as kind and genuine as she is gorgeous, and the wedding day was amazing.

Thank you to Danielle at the Hilton and Lindsey from A Joyful Occasion for taking care of the day’s details.

The cake was made by Ambrosia Cake Creations

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Oct 13 2010

Candace + Keaton | Liberty Hall Wedding

Caleb and I grew up in small-town-Kansas and went to school at the University of Kansas. Keaton and Candace also grew up in Kansas, in the same tiny hometown as Caleb, then moved on to KU.

Keaton and Caleb spent their high school summers working at the city’s baseball fields, umpiring, and engaging in general shenanigans together. When Caleb and I got married, Keaton stood up for Caleb at our wedding, and when it was Keaton’s turn, we wanted to be there to capture every moment.

Saturday’s wedding at Liberty Hall in Lawrence, Kansas was perfect. Candace put together a really cool array of theater-themed details to match the venue, including custom movie posters and popcorn favors.

Candace, you were a gorgeous bride, and we couldn’t be happier for you and Keaton. Wishing you both joy and love. Rock Chalk, friends!

First meeting! I love this.

So creative. This photo went along with a box of fun props that Keaton and Candace put together so that guests could play dress up for photos.

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Sep 26 2010

Shawna + Erik | Cardinal Club Wedding Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh looked only vaguely familiar when Caleb and I arrived Saturday afternoon. Hundreds (or maybe even thousands…I never won the ‘guess how many jellybeans are in this jar’ game) of motorcycles clogged the streets, a group of belly dancers sauntered by, and music pumped through the air. Google explained that we were in the midst of “bikefest,” and we definitely weren’t dressed for the occasion.

Aside from the roar of motors, it was business as usual inside the Sheraton where Shawna and her girls were getting ready, and then they were off to the gorgeous Cardinal Club for the ceremony and reception. Many thanks to the fabulous staff and to Raleigh wedding planner Erin McLean for coordinating all of the amazing details.

Hello, handsome!
Shawna was radiating mega happiness when she met Erik before the ceremony. So. much. joy.

Flowers by Tre Bella.
Ryan at Island sound kept the dance floor packed.
The awesome view of downtown Raleigh from the 28th floor.