COURTNEY & TATE’S ENCHANTING FALL WEDDING AT WHISPERING OAKS


This fall, I had the honor of capturing the beautiful wedding of Courtney and Tate at the stunning Whispering Oaks in Julian, NC. From the moment I arrived, I could tell this was going to be an unforgettable day. The venue, with its breathtaking views and charming, rustic atmosphere, set the perfect backdrop for a wedding full of love, laughter, and a touch of magic.


Rustic outdoor wedding venue with wooden benches under a covered pavilion surrounded by forest and strung lights.
Rustic wedding venue interior with wooden benches and white floral arrangements in mason jars along the aisle.
A circular brick patio with wooden benches and fire pit surrounded by autumn trees with golden leaves shedding their foliage.
Modern residential home with slanted roof and brick walkway surrounded by autumn trees and landscaping on grassy lawn.
A rustic wooden pergola with flower-lined brick pathway leads to a white barn amid autumn foliage.
Rustic antique wagon wheel stands against autumn garden with purple flowers and farmhouse in background.
Rustic wooden pavilion with wine barrel and seating area features decorative arch entrance in forest setting.
Rustic wooden wedding chapel interior with exposed beams, wooden pews, and hanging string lights creating a warm atmosphere.

A FALL-INSPIRED WONDERLAND


As the crisp autumn air filled the day, Courtney and Tate’s wedding was an absolute vision of fall elegance. The vibrant hues of gold, red, and orange blended perfectly with the natural beauty of Whispering Oaks, creating a picturesque scene straight out of a fairy tale. The couple chose a stunning rustic theme that highlighted the charm of the changing season—complete with a few surprise guests!

Yes, you read that right—goats! The furry little creatures were out back, adding to the rustic charm and whimsy of the day. It was a unique touch that gave everyone something to smile about!


Two Boer goats walking in a grassy field with one white and brown goat in front and another brown goat following behind.
A brown and white goat running through a grassy fenced field with another goat visible in foreground.
A young Boer goat with brown and white coloring looks directly at camera while standing in a grassy field.
Two white goats standing in a grassy pasture with a shelter structure and autumn trees in the background.
Brown and white Boer goat with long horns and a shaggy coat looking directly at camera in outdoor setting.
A weathered wooden shelter or cabin with rustic signage against an autumn forest backdrop.

BRIDAL DETAILS & STUNNING SHOTS


One of my favorite parts of any wedding day is capturing those little details that truly tell the story of the couple’s love. Courtney’s wedding details were nothing short of breathtaking. From the intricate, sparkling wedding rings nestled in a Mr. and Mrs. ring box to her delicate bridal shoes, every item exuded elegance. And let’s talk about that bouquet! The florals were vibrant and lush—perfectly reflecting the season and the couple’s unique style.

I also had the privilege of photographing Courtney’s stunning dress. Her gown was an absolute dream. The off-the-shoulder sleeves, soft tulle, and delicate fabric gave her an ethereal, magical presence. She looked every bit the enchanting bride!


Wedding rings displayed on a wooden box with white calligraphy text reading 'and the Two become One' on white tulle fabric.
Wedding rings nestled in a white flower surrounded by burgundy roses and orange dahlias with pampas grass accents.
Wedding rings displayed in rustic wooden box labeled 'MR MRS' with jewelry tray and dried flowers nearby.
Beautiful bride in lace off-shoulder wedding dress with billowing sleeves holds dried floral bouquet in outdoor setting.
Close-up view of an elegant white lace wedding dress with flowing fabric near garden plants and foliage.
Close-up shot of newlyweds holding hands while walking on grass, with bride in flowing lace gown and groom in dark suit.

FIRST LOOKS & TOUCHES OF EMOTION

One of my favorite moments of the day was the first look with Courtney and her dad. There was so much emotion as he saw his daughter in her wedding dress for the first time—it was truly heartwarming. The love and pride in his eyes spoke volumes.

Courtney and Tate also chose to do a first touch, which was such a sweet, intimate moment. While they didn’t see each other, they were able to share a quiet, emotional connection before walking down the aisle. It was such a meaningful choice that set the tone for the rest of the day.

Two people in elegant dresses share a tender moment in a rustic wooden room with a decorative archway.
A black and white photo of a bridal party sharing a joyful moment in an elegant venue with wood-paneled walls.
Wedding party in teal bridesmaid dresses stands together in rustic wooden venue beside person in white lace gown.
A woman in a flowing white wedding dress poses on rustic wooden stairs in black and white photography.
Emotional first look moment between couple in wedding attire standing outside on garden path.
Black and white photo showing boutonniere being pinned to a tuxedo lapel during formal event preparation.
A couple holds hands during their wedding ceremony showing a white lace dress sleeve and a dark suit sleeve.
Couple in wedding attire holds hands around corner of building during first look moment with string lights visible.
A couple holding hands around a doorway corner, with the bride in a lace white gown and groom in a black suit.

A CELEBRATION OF LOVE & LAUGHTER

After the ceremony, the reception kicked off with a bang! The couple and their guests filled the dance floor, celebrating the night away. I even got out there to join the fun—Courtney insisted, and it was such a blast dancing with her and the whole group! There was so much joy in the air, and it was clear how much fun everyone was having.

From heartfelt speeches to contagious laughter, the entire evening was a reflection of the love and happiness that Courtney and Tate share. It was impossible not to be swept up in the energy of their celebration!

A couple shares a romantic dance at a wedding reception with guests in the background and decorative lighting.
Couple dancing together at a rustic indoor venue with wooden floors and romantic chandelier lighting.
People dance on a polished wooden floor at a celebration with purple lighting and a rustic wood-paneled wall.
People celebrate and dance in a rustic venue decorated with twinkling lights during a wedding reception.
People dancing and celebrating at a rustic indoor wedding reception with wooden floors and dimmed lights.
A wedding celebration at a rustic venue with string lights hanging from wooden beams and guests dancing on a polished floor.
Wedding guests dance and celebrate on a wooden floor under string lights at an indoor reception venue.
Two elderly attendees share an intimate dance moment at an evening reception with twinkling lights in the background.
Wedding guests dancing energetically in formal attire on the dance floor at an indoor reception.

A Magical Day

Courtney and Tate’s wedding was truly a magical celebration of love. Their connection was so evident throughout the day, from the emotional moments to the fun-filled dance floor. I feel so lucky to have been a part of it and to have captured the beauty of their love story.

Thank you, Courtney and Tate, for trusting me to document your unforgettable day. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and, of course, many more dance parties!