This lovely couple, like countless others, had their March 2020 wedding plans derailed when the pandemic made its way to our shores. After meticulously planning their wedding with the help of Trent and Ashley of Something Fabulous Weddings and Events, they kept as many of those details and choices intact and decided to go ahead with their ceremony, if on a much smaller scale.
Lauren is a professional writer; Michael works in the corporate world and they moved to the Triangle from Michigan where they fell in love with Chatham Station’s minimal elegance after getting engaged. Of course, we were thrilled to accommodate any plan they had.
The Intimate Ceremony
Even during this uncertain time, during their ceremony the couple heard the calming voice of Officiant Ann McKenzie. They were flanked by Lauren’s sister and Michael’s brother as they greeted each other and said their vows. Lauren’s father not only escorted her down the aisle, he treated the couple and their small gathering of guests to a serenade. It was a surprise and an incredibly sweet moment.
Special Details
While the wedding was scaled back, there was no shortage of tender moments, including Lauren’s first look with her father.
The bride, her mother and her sister-slash-maid-of-honor, all prepared in our changing rooms where they were able to capture little moments. Lauren’s gown was a stunner – a white gossamer and timeless number with an open back, plunging neckline and long veil. The layers in her dress were sublime.
The couple also shared a first touch instead of a first look, where they shared notes they wrote for each other and were able to laugh a little and reflect before the ceremony.
After the ceremony, the small party of mostly family and some friends grabbed some indoor portraits and then the couple accompanied their photographer Sarah Reaves for a stroll around downtown Cary, where they took exquisite outdoor photos in pretty spectacular springtime setting.
Lauren and Michael are proof that you can tailor your larger vision when things in the world shift sideways. Where we cut back on guests and decor there was an enormous amount of heart present on this day. Tears flowed and the couple were made to feel that their new beginning was as special as the even the largest, grandest wedding.
The newlyweds and Chatham Station are happy to share the vendor list with you:
Wedding Planners: Something Fabulous Weddings & Events
Officiant: Ann McKenzie
Florist: Blossom
Photographer: Sarah Reaves
Venue: Chatham Station
