Erin and Patrick – Part II
One of the most beautiful weddings I’ve documented this year! I loved every aspect and detail. Erin and her family are full of warmth and welcome and it’s was an honor to be a part of their day. I’m just going to start with the images as there are really no words to describe the beauty!
I love shooting at the Basillica of St. Lawrence… it’s so romantic and serene.
Every time I tried for a serious face… I got laughter instead. And I loved it!
Flora Diva did an awesome job with the bouquet and hairpieces…matched beautifully with Erin’s vision.
yup… that’s an abandoned car garage in downtown Asheville….what can i say? the light was awesome!
I’ve said it a million times… but, I love it when a couple allows ample time for pictures! It allows for a stressfree session and that lack of stress comes through in the images! Erin and Patrick rode around with me in my mommy van and we shot some awesome stuff! Downtown Asheville has some great places!
Homewood was a beautiful setting for the reception.
AMAZING Cake by Icing on The Cake.
A few days before the wedding Erin and her family purchased dozens of Orchids from the Etowah Orchid Greenhouse and made the arrangements like the one from below themselves! I am a huge fan of Orchids!
Patrick’s brother gave a fun toast about keeping the upper hand in marriage, while Erin’s sister told a tear-jerker…about the family and everything they endured in Vietnam to get to these happy moments. Such a wonderful series of toasts!
Erin and Patrick – Part I
I have been looking forward to shooting this wedding for well over a year. Erin and Patrick chose Asheville to celebrate their up-coming marriage. The couple live in California. Patrick’s family is from the Carolina’s and Erin’s from Vietnam. What a beautiful union of families, love, and culture!
Erin had asked me to document a special ceremony before the actual wedding. The traditional Tea Ceremony. I was more than a little giddy about it! I prepared myself for the event by doing a bit of research and to better explain…i’ve posted a description below:
In The Vietnamese Wedding the Groom and the Bride in front of all their family and friends will serve tea (or wine) to their parents. Their parents would take turn to give their blessing, advice about marriage and family to the couple and give the newly wedded value gifts such as money in a red envelope.
The groom then pours tea for the couple, first into one large bowl then into one cup for bride. They drink the tea as they are watched closely by their family and friends. The offer and acceptance of tea is a very important ritual in Vietnamese culture.
I arrived when Erin was getting ready. She is so beautiful. The following post is brief… but, wait until part II ! It’s a big one! 
Erin’s sister Tina helped with the traditional headdress.
Erin’s father giving his blessing…
My pretty sister and her baby bump…
I can’t tell you how excited I am to meet my new little nephew! He will be so spoiled! My sister is due soon with her first baby and looking absolutely amazing. I’m jealous. I looked or rather felt like a beached whale. 
I wanted to share a few pics I took over the past weekend. I threw Jenny a shower in Charlotte at the Duke Mansion. Pics from that later…
thanks for the thanks…:)
I have to admit, last week was a tough one. We lost my uncle suddenly on Monday and then the rest of the week was a blur. It was so nice to receive not one, but two, thank you cards in the mail. There is nothing like a personal note. I should be better about them myself. So….thanks for the thanks. Here’s to a better Monday.
Laura and John – Little Switzerland Inn
I’ve always enjoyed shooting at the Little Switzerland Inn. Laura and John were a sweet couple and easy to photograph. It was especially nice to see so many familiar faces from Marion. I love a local wedding and this crowd knew how to celebrate! On with the images…
i LOVE this shot! So gorgeous!
the floral was beyond beautiful! Great job by Sprucepine Florist 
this shot didn’t turn out like i thought…but, i still think it’s funny
i always follow the couple right after they exit… i love the just married moments!
this bible has been in the family for several generations..
yep. this is the biggest wedding party ever!
Father and daughter moments…
lots of fun faces from the reception. 
Thanks for the great time!
Rehearsal Fun!
I’ve been shooting a full weekend of family fun! The Dark Family is from Marion and hired me a over 16 months ago for this moment! I was there for the rehearsal dinner and had a great time! Here are a few pics from Friday…much more from the beautiful wedding soon!
Alex and David – Hickory, NC
What a fun group of people! And, what a large bridal party… Alex and David were married in Hickory, NC on Saturday and the day went without a hitch. I loved the details in this wedding and the pink! The Crown Plaza was gorgeous and, Alex, you were a beautiful bride! Thanks for having us on your big day. On with the pics….
i loved the pink shoes!
This little one didn’t want to participate…but, i love this shot!
this shot was hilarious…though, i’m afraid the bouquets didn’t hold up.
sweet Eli
money dance!
THIS was so much fun! The bride asked us to set up a photo booth! I supplied a few props and voila!
my brother is a daddy!
My niece came in to the world last Monday and our whole family is in love! She is just so beautiful and healthy. I can’t believe my sister-in-law carried a 10 pound baby! I had to wait 6 days to hold her, but it was worth it. Little Valerie melts my heart! Ethan and Erin you are so blessed. I can’t wait to dress her up!
Here’s a few from a mini Aunt Katy session…
Trish and Blake – Champion Hills
Trish and Blake were married last week at Champion Hills Golf Club. The weather was perfect! I can’t believe how cool it’s been for August. The day went so smoothly and Trish couldn’t have looked more beautiful. I’m posting a few from our Bridal portrait session a month back and then a few teasers from the big day. Hope you had a fantastic honeymoon!
i loved this ring shot….
i fell for these sweet flower girls…
my favorite part of the ceremony… the veil was flying away. too funny!
my assistant, Kerri, got some cool cake shots… I love the motorcycle!
I’m in Raleigh until Tuesday… Trish, I’ll be sending you some designed thank you cards. Have a great weekend!
rolls… Jessica is 3 months
This little one is too cute and chubby! I love the baby rolls! Not to mention, she rolled all over my bed during our session. Sara- thanks for making that long drive from Atlanta. I’m so happy I could fit your sweetie in to the crazy wedding schedule that seems to be my life right now.
