Mr. and Mrs. Purley | Cape Fear Botanical Garden

This past fall I found myself in the east side of the state pretty often. This Saturday in September was spent in Fayetteville, North Carolina at Cape Fear Botanical Gardens. Blair and Khalil are some of the kindest people I’ve ever met and this whole day was a reflection of their calm demeanor. We kicked off the day with detail photos and hanging with Khalil and Blair as they got ready, then photographed the sweetest dress reveal between Blair and her bridesmaids. Instead of a first look, these two decided to do a first touch where they exchanged gifts. If you’re a couple that wants to have a private moment to exchange gifts or vows but not see each other, a first touch is a fantastic option to get to visit with each other before the ceremony. This also gave Khalil an opportunity to sport his Navy whites before changing into his suit, and who doesn’t love an outfit change moment?

Khalil and Blair said their I-Dos in the gardens overlooking the pond in front of family and friends. Their ceremony was filled with happy tears and the sweetest hand-written vows. We celebrated after with lots of portraits of their bridal party and of just the two of them as husband and wife. As cocktail hour ended we transitioned into the reception hall. I loved the Purley’s blue-toned aesthetic complemented by touches of red. It made the ballroom space feel both etherial and grounded and was executed perfectly by Summer Jones Events. Blair and Khalil participated in the traditional first dances and Khalil’s dance with his mom was one of my favorite parts of the day. These two both got teary as they swayed to the music and it made it evident to everyone in the room how much they meant to each other. Blair and Khalil spent the rest of their night visiting with friends and family before saying goodbye through the sparklers. To Mr. and Mrs. Purley, thank you for being the absolute sweetest and for letting me be a part of your day. I sure do hope newlywed life is treating you well!