I’ve had an inspiration board on my desktop titled “Woodsy Editorial” for months. Its one of many I’ve created during late nights spent at the studio. When my eyes start crossing from hours of uploads & editing, I start pulling design images into folders & file them away as ideas for a rainy day. I’ve saved a few for inspiration in case my hubby & I ever decide to plan a vow renewal ( which, lets face it..may never happen with our schedules! ) and this particular board really spoke to me. It stared me in the face every time I started up my computer & I finally felt compelled to bring it to life…

The first call I made was to brilliant designer & friend Elissa Keno, who I’ve worked with on two other shoots like this. Our vision & design aesthetic are so in tune and we always have a blast working together. She has a great eye for all things design, so when I sent her the copper inspired board she dove right in. My first find was the copper vases from Anthropologie, and almost simultaneously Elissa found the gorgeous copper silk for the table runner. Then life & crazy schedules took over, and our woodsy shoot got pushed to the back burner ( off the stove entirely, actually ) Until last Monday, when we made the decision to go for it. It was our last collective weekend off for 2 months, so it was now or never.

In one week we pulled together a lineup of spectacular vendors who were inspired to help us bring this woodsy wedding concept to life. I can’t tell you what an honor it was to have them donate their time & talents to translate our vision into reality. These are artists, like us, who truly LOVE what they do & were as excited as we were to see it all come together. I know, for Elissa & myself, there’s no greater compliment & we continue to be inspired by their artistry. If you’re looking for vendors in the Triad area, there are none better than the ones listed below.

There’s so much I want to share from this shoot that I’ve had to split it into 2 posts. Check back soon for the story behind our stunning model, Anne-Marie and one of the most beautiful dresses I’ve ever photographed. Trust me, you won’t want to miss Part 2!

**Thanks to my sweet grandmother for letting us borrow her first set of silverware from the 1930s. It was a perfect addition to the tablescape :)

Concept- Kellie Kano & Elissa Keno
Tablescape Design- Elissa Keno Events
Model- Anne-Marie Rhodes with Marilyn’s
Dress- Anne Frances
Cake, cake stands & Chairs- MaxieB’s
Florals- Just Priceless
Menus/Place Cards- Paperwhites Press
Hair- Salon Baileys
Jewelry & hairpiece- J.Crew
Power Rental- A1 Rentals

I have history with Jennings that goes all the way back to middle school. She has always been the life of the party & has never been afraid to just be herself. I love that about her. She lives boldly, laughs bigger than anyone I know, and soaks in every. single. moment. Even in 7th grade, she had a very specific idea of the man of her dreams & after spending time with Brennen, I can honestly say he is the guy for her. He gives the greatest hugs, makes everyone around him feel welcome & loved, and treats Jennings like the most precious treasure on earth. They laugh more than any couple I’ve ever photographed & dance like they’ve been married for a lifetime. They are a perfect fit & I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them…

Thanks to Jennings, Brennen & their families for sharing this spectacular day with us. You guys know how to throw a party…this was, without a doubt, reception of the year :)

**A special thanks goes out to the altar guild at St. Francis by the Sea for allowing us to snap a few shots during the ceremony. They typically do not allow photographs in the church, but made an exception so we could capture the sweet moments below. We are grateful..thank-you!

Dress- Romona Keveza
Shoes- Kate Spade
Flowers- Roger Carter
Groomsmen Ties- R. Hanauer, Inc.
Reception Venue- Coral Bay Club
Band- Simply Irresistible

Katie’s shot:

Katie’s shot:

“A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, and a golden thread in the meaning of life.” -Isadora James

This sweet pair stole my heart in the span of an hour. Meet Zoe & Zadyn. Zadyn is spunky, has a mini-Janis Joplin voice, is surprisingly skilled at applying lipstick ( she’s 5 ) and just lost her first tooth. Zoe is soulful, has a heart of gold & is without a doubt the best big sister on earth. After spending the afternoon with these two, I’m convinced there’s nothing quite like sister love…