Dustin + Abby- Asheville, NC -September 2023
Hey there!
Buckle up, buckaroos, for my very first blog post! Writing isn't exactly my cup of tea, and I've deliberately avoided the whole blogging scene until now. It always felt like too much work, with my internal monologue saying, "Nobody cares! Just show me the recipe!" or, in my case, "Just show the pictures!"
But let me tell you, capturing Abby and Dustin's wedding was an absolute blast. It was as if there was magic in the air, and merely slapping up some pictures didn't feel like enough. So, here we are, diving into the blogosphere together!
Introduction
I met Abby back in 2019, working together at a brewery in Rock Hill, SC. I loved Abby from the moment I met her. Not only does she exude the vibe and essence of a quintessential cool girl, but she's also a genuinely great human and just fun to be around. I'd check the schedule and think, "Abby’s working, too! Hell yeah!" and I knew that even if I didn't make a lot of money that night, at least I'd have fun being there hanging out with her.
Then in 2021, Abby and her then-boyfriend Dustin decided to pack up and move back to Asheville, NC. I thought I probably wouldn't ever get to see her again. However, I got lucky because Dustin proposed, and she reached out to me to see if I would be interested in photographing their wedding. Of course, I said yes!
The Two-Day Celebration
Abby and Dustin’s wedding was a two-day affair, filled with lots of laughter, love and a little DIY charm. Here’s the details:
Day 1: The Elopement
The Asheville courthouse set the stage for the intimate elopement. Surrounded by family and friends. They exchanged rings and said their “I do’s”. It was simple, sweet and perfect. Also, I also feel the need to mention how none-stressed all of this was. They both were the epitome of going with the flow and you can tell they were just happy to have everyone they love there to experience this with them.
Later that evening, we all gathered at Hi-Wire Brewery to celebrate the newlyweds. There I drank good beer and got to meet some more of their friends. I couldn’t get over how nice and supportive everyone was. There was so much laughter and love- and Dustin and Abby had huge smiles on their faces all night.
Day 2: The Riverside Reception
The newlyweds rented this spectacular house right on the banks of the French Broad River. And when I say banks…I mean the river WAS the front yard! It was incredible. Abby’s vision for the wedding was to keep it simple, casual, and laid-back, and I personally think they executed it perfectly. I was in awe of her attention to detail – from thrifting all of the linens and glassware, making all the labels, to the dried fruit garland that she crafted herself. She even set up a rock painting table for the kids! Special mention goes to their amazing friends who helped set everything up and made it look beautiful. Dustin’s mom crafted all the centerpieces, and Abby’s mom meticulously die-cut vinyl for a mirror that greeted the arriving guests. It truly was a labor of love and a team effort, and everyone had a blast contributing!
Also, one more thing, before the vows, Abby’s friends and family did something pretty cool. Each of them created a scrapbook filled with fun times and memories they’ve shared with her. I had never seen that before and was touched by how thoughtful and loving it was that each person took the time to make something so heartfelt. After so many hugs and laughs, it was showtime!
And in front of all their loved ones, Abby and Dustin exchanged vows once more- this time against the backdrop of that spectacular house. Then came the food, speeches (accompanied by a few tears), and dancing. The entire evening flowed seamlessly, and the love they had for everyone and each other was evident to all. I felt privileged to capture it all.
That Sunday, as I packed up my camera gear and made my way back to Rock Hill, I reflected on the magic of those two days. Dustin and Abby’s wedding was a celebration not only of love but also of creativity, laughter, warmth, support, and genuine connection. Those two days made me realize, firstly, I love a good party, but I also love the romance of it all, the camaraderie, the smiles, the good times, and mostly being able to photograph these special moments in people's lives. It truly is an honor.
Wishing Them Love and Success
And with that, a note to Abby and Dustin: Thank you again for giving me this opportunity! May your journey together be filled with countless more beautiful moments! And to your incredible friends and family, thank you for being part of this love story! I enjoyed meeting you all!
Note: All photographs in this blog were taken by me. Feel free to view them below.
Also here’s a list of vendors that was used:
Tent, table, and chairs // Classic Event Rentals
Flowers // Carolina Flowers
Food// Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack & Doc Browns BBQ
The End
