An Italian Garden Party Meets Timeless Romance
There’s something magical about witnessing two people begin their lives together. Emily and Cole’s wedding at Twickenham House in Jefferson, NC, was no exception. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, their celebration was intimate, emotional, and full of personal touches. As a photographer, capturing candid wedding photography in such a stunning location was truly rewarding.
The Perfect Start: An Italian Garden Welcome Party
The wedding weekend began with an Italian garden party. Twickenham House provided the perfect backdrop, nestled in the heart of Jefferson, North Carolina. Emily and Cole wanted their guests to feel connected, and they certainly succeeded. Italian wine, a pasta bar, and a gelato/affogato dessert table set the tone. As the evening went on, friends and family shared emotional speeches. By the end, not a single eye was dry. These moments, filled with laughter and tears, are what candid wedding photography is all about.
A Wedding Day That Was All About Them
Emily and Cole chose a simple, joyful day without the usual wedding pressures. They decided against a formal bridal party, which allowed for a relaxed morning. No rushing, no stress—just laughter and love with their family. This slower pace allowed for more candid wedding photography, capturing the natural emotions shared between the couple and their loved ones.
Their first look was a highlight. Emily and Cole exchanged letters before seeing each other. It was a deeply personal and emotional moment. It’s these raw, unfiltered moments that make wedding photography so special. With Jefferson, NC’s beautiful scenery in the background, every photo seemed to capture something magical.
Capturing Candid Family Memories
Instead of formal family photos, Emily and Cole opted for a relaxed approach. After their first look, they held a private mini-cocktail hour with their families. They shared champagne and heartfelt thank yous, which created authentic moments for candid wedding photography. The atmosphere was joyful, filled with genuine interaction. While we did take a few formal shots, the candid moments were far more powerful.
An Evening Full of Surprises
As the sun set over Jefferson, NC, the reception began. Twickenham House was the perfect venue for the evening’s surprises. The first was a stunning firedancer performance. But the real highlight came from Cole, who performed with his band. A professional singer and vocal coach, he serenaded the crowd with covers and original songs. His talent made the evening even more personal and special.
Emily, a private pilot, looked on with pride. Late into the night, the couple surprised their guests with a late-night snack—truffle fries served right on the dance floor! These kinds of spontaneous moments are exactly why I love candid wedding photography. As the night drew to a close, Emily and Cole’s sparkler exit lit up the North Carolina sky, ending the day on a high note.
A Hybrid Approach to Photography
As a hybrid photographer, I love blending digital photography with 35mm film. For Emily and Cole’s wedding, this approach worked perfectly. We captured both candid moments and traditional shots in a timeless, beautiful way. The 35mm film added a nostalgic feel to their gallery. It gave their photos a warm, vintage touch that fit the mood of the day.
Unconventional & Unforgettable
What made Emily and Cole’s wedding stand out was how true it was to them. They embraced their personalities and planned a day that reflected their love. From skipping the bridal party to the surprise musical performance, every detail was thoughtful and personal. Their decision to focus on candid wedding photography helped us capture the true essence of their day, set against the beautiful backdrop of Twickenham House in Jefferson, NC.
If you’re planning a wedding, remember to make it your own. Choose moments and traditions that feel right for you. And, most importantly, enjoy every second of it. The photos will tell your story in the most beautiful way.
