Mr. and Mrs. Richardson | Chetola Resort

They say rain on your wedding day is good luck, but for most people rain still brings a lot of anxiety and disappointment. But for Ellie and Scott, nothing could dampen their excitement for their wedding day. If you’ve never been to Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, it is an absolute must stop. Nestled in a quiet valley complete with lake and mountain views, this stunning retreat served as the perfect backdrop for Scott and Ellie’s wedding day. A rainy forecast loomed as I greeted the couple to begin their day. Within minutes, the dark clouds gathered and the rain began to pour. Ellie and Scott both just smiled and said they were happy to wait it out; they knew their was no need to rush. With the amazing help of Lori from Imagine This! Events, we quickly designed a back up plan for Ellie and Scott’s first look that would keep them as dry as possible. But to everyone’s excitement, the rain stopped and made way for gorgeous overcast skies just in time for photos.

Scott and Ellie have a special place in my heart. If you read my post about their engagement session, you know they are some of the kindest, most complimentary, most genuine people around. Not only do they love everyone around them so well, but they also have immense love for each other. Their first look was full of hugs and adoration and my face quite seriously hurt from smiling so much at them. Scott and Ellie’s love is contagious and could be seen in their friend’s eyes as they celebrated together with their bridal party. The ceremony took place under the lakeside willow tree where their family shared readings (shoutout to Mimi) and the couple exchanged handwritten vows. If anyone out their needs help writing their own upcoming vows, you’re going to want to reach out to these two. Sentimental, kind, and full of admiration, their promises to each other held so much compassion and love. It was all smiles from the bride and groom as they headed back up the aisle while being cheered on my family and friends.

Staring the work of the one and only Santara Flowers, Ellie and Scott’s reception space was the late summer wedding of dreams. The rich florals complimented the crisp design by Imagine This! leaving each and every guest in awe of the dreamy space. The couple kicked off their reception with their first dance and dinner, followed by speeches from family and Ellie’s first dance with her dad and stepdad. The rest of the night was celebrated by a full dance floor, endless stops to Boone Photo Booth by guests, and plenty of hugs from the bride and groom. A sparkler exit concluded their evening just as the rain made a reappearance to wish the new Mr. and Mrs. luck. To Ellie and Scott: I could not speak more highly of you both if I tried. Your love and kindness is an inspiration and you are both a needed light in this world. I cannot wait to see what your next chapter holds, and I can’t wait to visit you in Raleigh soon!