airlie gardens

Lindsey and Maria decided to elope out on the West Coast, but wanted to also incorporate Wilmington (where they live) into their wedding photos! I LOVE love love love love getting to do elopement photography, we have no timeline, we are in no rush, we are able to do multiple locations, and no one is waiting on us to get back for dinner to start! Lindsey and Maria were just absolutely LOVELY to work with, and their love was literally so easy to capture. Thank you two for walking around Greenfield Lake and Downtown Wilmington with me, for gator hunting, and for being so fun and kind! Now check out a few of my favorites!!

When I look back at Avery and Mitch’s wedding this past July at the Brooklyn Arts Center in Wilmington, North Carolina, I can’t help but smile. As a full time wedding photographer, I’m fortunate to witness so many beautiful moments, but their day felt especially magical—whimsical, dreamy, and romantic, all wrapped up in one perfect package.

The Brooklyn Arts Center was the ideal backdrop for Avery and Mitch’s vision. The venue’s charm and character blended seamlessly with their aesthetic, creating an atmosphere that felt both enchanting and intimate and held space for all of their very personal and well thought out details (and so much hand-made by the bride herself!). The soft, golden light of July kissed every surface with a gentle glow, making the space feel like a dreamscape.

Avery looked like a vision straight out of a fairytale. The floral arrangements were lush and overflowing, a delightful mix of pastels and vibrant blooms that added to the dreamy ambiance. Mitch, ever the dashing groom, was the perfect counterpoint in his tailored suit, looking every bit the part of the romantic hero in this story. Especially when he gave a short speech at the reception, letting his emotions out for everyone to witness, there weren’t a lot of dry eyes in the house.

The ceremony itself was a beautiful Catholic ceremony held at St Mary’s. Capturing their first kiss as a married couple was a highlight. And the reception? Oh, the reception. It was like stepping into a whimsical wonderland – I quite literally screamed out loud when I walked into the room for the first time, and I squealed that I felt like I was in Alice in Wonderland. String lights twinkled from above, and the tables were adorned with vintage-inspired decor that added a touch of romance to the already magical setting.

Of course one of my favorite aspects of the day was that Avery & Mitch chose to add-on my 35mm film photo package, which includes film in your wedding day photos! This added a special touch and really went so well with their decor and general vibe of the day!

As the night wound down and the last of the guests trickled out, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. Avery and Mitch’s wedding was more than just a day; it was an experience, a celebration of love that I was lucky enough to be a part of. It was whimsical, dreamy, and utterly romantic—just like their love story. And what a perfect way to end the night with a confetti exit (biodegradable!) which was AMAZING and so unique. Grateful for these two, and I can’t wait to watch what’s next in their journey together!

35mm Film Photos:

Photographer: Allison Eding, Lightbloom Photography

Ceremony Venue: The Basilica Shrine of St. Mary

Reception Venue: The Brooklyn Arts Center

Planner: Danielle Holcomb (Before Ever After Co.)

Florist: Verzaal’s

Videographer: Heartline Films

Cake: Groom’s mother

Rentals: White Birch Rentals, Party Suppliers, Perfect Touch

Dress: White of Raleigh Bridal Boutique

Hair Stylist: Jamie (Beauty Bar Boutique)

Makeup Artist: Jamie (Beauty Bar Boutique)

DJ: Spinfire Entertainment

Catering: Salt & Charm

Officiant: Deacon John Walsh (St. Mary)

Transportation: Azalea Limousine Service

Ring: J. Brooks Jewelers

As a wedding photographer based in Wilmington, North Carolina, I’ve had the privilege of documenting love stories in some of the most picturesque corners of the state. However, Mattie and Griffin’s wedding at the Crystal Coast Country Club in Pine Knoll Shores stands out as a day filled with unexpected charm and unforgettable moments.

The sun danced lazily over the shimmering waters of Bogue Sound as I arrived at the venue, greeted by the salty breeze and the quiet anticipation that hangs in the air before a wedding. Nervous excitement all around. The Crystal Coast Country Club, with its elegant coastal decor and sweeping views, was the perfect backdrop for Mattie and Griffin’s celebration of love. I mean – I couldn’t have painted a better backdrop myself.

Mattie, GORGEOUSSSS in her classic gown that seemed to go perfectly with the soft waves nearby, and Griffin, dashing in his suit (and yes there WAS an outfit change later – honestly love when a groom does an outfit change) under the Carolina sky, exchanged vows in a heartfelt ceremony that resonated with sincerity and joy, and I promise, a lot of happy tears. As a photographer, capturing those genuine smiles and tender glances is what fuels my passion, and Mattie and Griffin made it effortless. Their love was so big, and it truly stood out to me. Another thing that I’m SO HAPPY they booked, was my 35mm film package! Couples who love this offering are my kind of couples. There’s something so unique about film that can’t be replicated in digital photographs. When Mattie specifically used the words “cinematic” when we were posing them at sunset, my insides screamed in happiness. She gets me. LOL.

One of the most memorable and might I say hilarious parts of the day unfolded during their reception. The bridesmaids brought out a surprise… Temporary tattoos adorned with Griffin’s face appeared mysteriously, and soon enough, everyone on the dance floor wore a cheeky grin and a miniature likeness of the groom.

As the evening progressed, beneath the stars and the gentle glow of lights, it became clear that Mattie and Griffin’s wedding wasn’t just about two people coming together in love; it was about celebrating the unique bond they shared with their community. Every guest, from grandparents to childhood friends, contributed to the tapestry of stories that made this day so special. The speeches were so personal and you could tell how much these two are loved by their people.

Reflecting on their wedding day, I’m reminded of the privilege and responsibility of being a wedding photographer—to freeze time in moments of pure happiness, to tell a story that transcends words, and to capture the essence of love in its many forms. Mattie and Griffin’s wedding at the Crystal Coast Country Club was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and the beauty of little moments—like dancing with the groom’s face temporarily tattooed on your arm—that make each wedding day uniquely magical. Shout out to these two for being so easy to work with, and CONGRATS and CHEERS to many many many many years of happiness ahead!

35mm Film Photos:

Photographer: Allison Eding, Lightbloom Photography

Venue: Crystal Coast Country Club

Coordinator: Hannah Strickland Events

Florist: Rider Florist – Kinston, NC

Videographer: Heartline Films

Cake: Piggly Wiggly – Kinston, NC

Rentals: Crystal Coast Event Rentals 

Dress: Coastal Knot

Hair Stylist: Rachel – Sea Grass Salon & Spa

Makeup Artist: Amanda – Sea Grass Salon & Spa

DJ: Generations DJ

Catering: Crystal Coast Country Club

Officiant: Iris Morrison – Groom’s grandma

Invitations: The Nook – Wilson, NC 

Ring: Bailey’s Fine Jewelry

Love has a unique way of unfolding, sometimes taking unexpected turns that lead to beautiful new beginnings. Such is the story of Eric and Hope, who, after a decade of marriage, decided to mark their journey with a long-awaited celebration of their love at Airlie Gardens in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Airlie Gardens, known for its picturesque tropical-garden landscapes and serene ambiance, provided the perfect backdrop for Eric and Hope’s special day. The decision to have a wedding after ten years of marriage was not just about celebrating their enduring love, but also about creating cherished memories with their closest family members who had been witnesses to their journey together. So after they exchanged their vows and sealed it with a kiss, we were able to take some photos with their family, as well as walk around together for portraits of the two of them around the gardens. I love wedding days like this one, nice and intimate, simply there to celebrate their love for each other. Congrats to these two on finally having the ceremony they always wanted!

Photographer: Allison Eding, Lightbloom Photography

Venue: Airlie Gardens