The Mill at Rock Creek Wedding in Boone NC

Victoria Wyche and Chris Hollinger were wed on October 15, 2022. The Mill at Rock Creek wedding in Boone NC was a sight to behold. The weather was gorgeous. We could not have asked for a prettier day. Nikki, the founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, captured the moments shared between the North Carolina bride and her U.S. Air Force Pilot groom as they celebrate love atop a mountain.

“If we’ve ever met two people more meant for each other—it’s these two,” confesses Nikki. “How they love each other is encapsulating. We are here for it. Honored to see it in person!”

Assisting Nikki as a second shooter was Fancy This Photography partner, Amanda Law. The significance of having a second shooter on a wedding day cannot be overstated. Second shooters guarantee that no precious moment escapes the lens. Not only do they provide reassurance in unforeseen circumstances, they also enrich the narrative with alternative perspectives. Working in tandem, the lead photographer and second shooter elevate the wedding photography experience.

Keep scrolling to learn more about The Mill at Rock Creek wedding venue and to witness the beauty of Tori and Chris’ big day.

The Mill at Rock Creek Wedding in Boone NC

Situated in Watauga County, North Carolina, The Mill at Rock Creek is an outstanding mountain wedding venue. The property’s massive indoor event area, iconic water wheel and spacious outdoor patio have made it a mountain wedding destination. It’s easy to see why couples fall in love with this magical place. Conveniently located just under five miles from downtown Boone, The Mill at Rock Creek offers breathtaking mountain views without sacrificing accessibility.

The venue rental package at The Mill at Rock Creek includes ceremony and reception setup, farm tables, a dance floor, chairs, industrial ice machine, a caterer’s kitchen, and a built-in bar. Noteworthy features include a sexy stone fireplace, adding rustic sophistication to the atmosphere. Guiding Tori and Chris through their October wedding at The Mill at Rock Creek as planner was Kristine Martin of EventMaker US.

According to Kristine,the second weekend in October is one of the most coveted wedding weekends in the High Country. Fall foliage in the mountains is absolutely spectacular. The vibrant colors are unmatched. “We had the best time with Tori and Chris celebrating the sweetest friendship and marriage,” reflects Kristine. “Thank you for allowing us to be a part of such a special day! We love you two!”

For the founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, capturing The Mill at Rock Creek wedding in Boone NC was an unforgettable experience. She loved the mountain wedding venue’s stocked amenities and jaw-dropping scenery. “You could have both your ceremony and reception there … Right in the middle of the blue mountains.”

Wedding Fashion & Beauty

Tori looked lovely in a lacey wedding dress from Anjolique Bridal. Her bridesmaids wore classic red gowns that suited the fiery fall mountain landscape. Courtney Howe styled the bridal party’s hair and makeup.

Chris looked handsome in his US Air Force uniform. Groomsmen in navy-blue suits and red ties pulled fall leaves from matching fanny packs and scattered them across the aisle during the processional. The scene was hilarious and added a touch of fall decor to the bride’s aisle.

Outdoor Ceremony at The Mill at Rock Creek

Tori and Chris held wedding festivities both indoors and outdoors at The Mill at Rock Creek. On that outstanding October day, the couple exchanged vows on the mountain wedding venue’s outdoor patio. Wayne Blythe served as officiant and the bride was escorted down the aisle by her father.

Felicity Floral Design's fall wedding flowers set the event's tone, from the bridal party bouquets to the asymmetrical wedding ceremony arch. The inclusion of pampas grass added a unique touch to each arrangement. Felicity’s fall wedding flowers enhanced the natural beauty of The Mill at Rock Creek wedding venue in Boone NC.

Arch of Swords Ceremony

Nikki finds military or service weddings particularly compelling, especially when they incorporate the arch of swords or sword/saber arch ceremony. This tradition serves as a symbolic salute to the newlyweds. The ceremony signifies loyalty, protection, and the couple’s integration into the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps community.

Boone NC Mountain Wedding by Fancy This Photography

When it comes to mountain wedding photography, Nikki advises photographers to embrace the elements. Whether it's a windy day or there’s harsh sunlight, capturing these natural conditions adds authenticity to the images.

“Each wedding is different, so if a wedding has rain or harsh shadows, etc., just showcase it in the best way,” says Nikki. “After all, each couple is unique just like their wedding day.”

Following toasts, Nikki and Amanda whisked the newlyweds away to pose for some stunning golden-hour photos. These are some of Fancy This Photography’s favorite sunset images. Not only did the couple receive magazine-worthy pictures, but they also enjoyed some precious alone time together.

“I like to leave the couple alone before we all head back in to continue the celebration,” says Nikki.

Romantic Reception - The Mill at Rock Creek Wedding in Boone NC

Tori and Chris hosted guests inside The Mill at Rock Creek’s magnificent main hall for dinner and the reception. The hall has a rustic yet refined atmosphere, characterized by exposed wooden beams and crystal chandeliers. It was the perfect backdrop for sharing toasts, dancing and stealing kisses.

Guests enjoyed catering by The Scarlet Hen, while Vintage Pours Mobile Bar Service kept everyone's drinks full. Each table setting featured stylish blue chalices and monogrammed champagne flutes. The evening's entertainment included music by DJ Grooves Entertainment and a cute cake surrounded by cupcakes from Sassy Cat Bakery.

If you're considering a wedding in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Fancy This Photography is here to capture your special day. For more wedding inspiration, click here to see Carly & Eric’s wedding at Overlook Barn in Banner Elk, NC.

Photography // Fancy This Photography

Venue // The Mill at Rock Creek in Boone, North Carolina

Planning // Event Maker US

Officiant // Wayne Blythe

Floral Design // Felicity Floral Design

Catering // The Scarlet Hen

Bar // Vintage Pours Mobile Bar Service

Cake/Dessert // Sassy Cat Bakery

Ceremony and Reception DJ // DJ Grooves Entertainment

Rentals // Boone Rent-All & Parties Too

Rentals // Country Time Party Rentals

Hair & Makeup // Cournay

Brides Dress // Anjolique Bridal

Clevy & Nell’s Backyard Wedding in Durham NC 

Clevy Selengbe and Nell Fortune-Greeley tied the knot on October 15, 2022. Opting for a backyard wedding in Durham NC at Nell's family home, the couple exchanged vows beneath a picturesque pergola. Surrounded by immediate friends and family, Clevy and Nell celebrated their special day in an intimate setting on a crisp fall afternoon.

Clevy and Nell first met at 21c Museum Hotel Durham, where Clevy worked as a museum manager and Nell as a sales manager. During a photo shoot for employee headshots at the hotel, they connected with Nikki from Fancy This Photography. She recommended her partner photographer, Courtney Collins, to capture their wedding day. To acknowledge 21c Museum Hotel Durham’s significance in their relationship, they hosted their rehearsal dinner at Counting House, the hotel's restaurant and bar.

Keep scrolling to witness more from Clevy and Nell’s backyard wedding in Durham NC, photographed by Courtney Collins.

Durham NC Wedding Photographer, Courtney Collins

Courtney eased Clevy and Nell's pre-wedding nerves by providing a thoughtful shot list beforehand. Her positivity, humor and efficient approach made organizing family portraits and formals a breeze. Nell applauded her work, saying, “Her photos are absolutely stunning, and we will treasure them forever. She made our backyard wedding look like a fancy venue.”

Using a 35mm and 50mm R6s, along with a Rolleiflex 3.5B equipped with a 75mm f/3.5 lens, Courtney's small gear allowed her to move more easily throughout the event. She enjoys shooting intimate weddings like Clevy and Nell's, where the couple can interact closely with their guests. "You can truly see everyone," she notes.

With a relaxed wedding day timeline and no bridal party, Courtney had more creative freedom. Instead of focusing on posed portraits, she captured candid moments and sentimental details. She loved shooting Clevy and Nell's wedding on film, adding an even more authentic quality to their memories.

Backyard Wedding in Durham NC Featured by Heart of NC Weddings

Fancy This Photography was thrilled to see Clevy and Nell’s backyard wedding in Durham NC published in the 2024 edition of Heart of NC Weddings magazine. Courtney’s fierce fall wedding photography popped off the pages. The fashion and style of this micro wedding were on point. From start to finish, it was a major slay!

Intimate Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

Clevy and Nell's backyard wedding in Durham, NC was intimate and meaningful, attended only by their closest friends and family. Clevy walked his mother down the aisle, while Nell was escorted by her father. Fall wedding flowers by Bowerbird Flowers & Apothecary in Chapel Hill added an air of romance. The bride's bouquet and groom's boutonniere featured white and green blossoms.

As sunlight streamed through the pergola, Clevy and Nell exchanged loving looks during the outdoor ceremony. They were surrounded by the warmth of their loved ones after sealing their vows with a kiss.

“Intimate weddings like this are my favorite to capture,” confesses Fancy This Photography partner, Courtney Collins.

American and Congolese Wedding Fashion

For their backyard wedding ceremony, Clevy and Nell wore modern American wedding attire. Nell wore a white midi-length wedding dress from Bec + Bridge, featuring clean lines and a square neckline. Her look was complemented by an elegant updo with a floral accent and forest green velvet shoes. Clevy looked sharp in a gray suit with a navy-blue patterned tie.

Transitioning to the outdoor cocktail hour and indoor reception dinner, the couple changed into traditional Congolese wedding attire. Nell's geometric gown featured intricate patterns and gold adornments, paired with Congolese jewelry. Clevy's attire matched Nell's perfectly. They seem to be cut from the same cloth. Fancy This Photography’s team cannot decide which wedding outfit we love more on Clevy and Nell! They truly looked amazing in both. We feel honored to have photographed their beautiful backyard wedding in Durham NC.

Family Wedding Traditions

Clevy and Nell's backyard wedding in Durham NC blended American and Congolese wedding traditions, reflecting the couple's heritage. A significant moment occurred when Clevy's family gifted them with traditional Congolese wedding attire, which they changed into during the reception.

In Congolese culture, weddings often consist of three parts: the traditional wedding or 'marriage coutumier', the civil wedding, and the religious wedding. Clevy and Nell's backyard wedding in Durham NC served as both a marriage coutumier and a civil wedding, symbolizing the union of their families in support of their marriage.

At-Home Wedding Reception Dinner

Clevy and Nell's indoor wedding reception was held at Nell's family home, giving it an intimate vibe. The dinner was served on family china, adding elegance and meaning to each table setting. Guests enjoyed a delicious selection of dishes catered by Rose’s Noodles, Dumplings & Sweets, a popular East Asian-inspired eatery located in downtown Durham. Local food enthusiasts Dennis Bernard and Tracy Lindskoog also contributed to the feast.

Backyard Wedding Photography 

Fancy This Photography would love to capture your backyard wedding day or weekend in timeless photos. Click here to schedule a free consultation.

Need some more backyard wedding inspiration? Check out Ashley and Jack’s backyard wedding weekend in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Click here to see their blog.

Photography // Fancy This Photography 

Chairs and Tables // Best Tents and Events

Flowers // Bowerbird Flowers & Apothecary 

Caterer // Rose’s Noodles, Dumplings & Sweets, Dennis Bernard and Tracy Lindskoog

White Wedding Dress // Bec + Bridge

Intimate Jewish Wedding at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill

Sammi and Neal’s Intimate Jewish Wedding at The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill

Capturing every moment of this occasion was Sarah Martin, a partner photographer at Fancy This Photography, whose artistry preserved the magic that transpired under the chuppah.

Photographed by Sarah Martin

The Carolina Inn, nestled in the heart of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is not only a premier hotel but also a stunning wedding venue that warmly welcomes all.

With its elegant charm and southern hospitality, The Carolina Inn embraces diversity and inclusivity. They ensure that every couple's special day is celebrated with love and respect. From traditional ceremonies to cultural festivities, including Jewish weddings, the Inn's dedicated staff goes above and beyond to accommodate the unique needs and preferences of each couple.

Keep scrolling to witness Sammi and Neal’s Jewish wedding at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill. These precious memories will surely last a lifetime.

Ceremony Details - Jewish Wedding at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill

In the serene setting of The Carolina Inn, the chuppah symbolized the sacred bond between Sammi and Neal. The chuppah is a visual emblem of the sanctity Jewish couples share on their wedding day. Surrounded by a select gathering of their closest friends and family, the couple embarked on a beautiful journey. Sammi and Neal chose to intertwine their lives under the symbolic shelter of the chuppah—a structure that stood witness to the deep-rooted Jewish wedding traditions and promises exchanged. Fancy This Photography was honored to capture this beautiful Jewish wedding at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill.

Warm & Intimate Wedding at The Carolina INn

Despite Sammi and Neal’s modest guest list, the love that permeated The Carolina Inn was immeasurable. The couple deliberately curated an intimate gathering, fostering an atmosphere resonating with warmth and sincerity. Within this exclusive circle, every smile, tear, and laughter became a shared experience, magnifying the significance of this celebration of love and commitment.

Romantic Wedding Details

The color palette chosen for Sammi and Neal’s Jewish wedding at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill reflected a delicate harmony of elegance and Southern charm. Whites and golds, accentuated by the iconic Carolina blue. Flowers and decor adorning the venue created a visually stunning backdrop that added a touch of romance to the already intimate setting. The subtle sophistication of the color scheme enhanced the overall aesthetic. This celebration was a captivating visual feast for all in attendance.

Fancy This Photography Partner, Sarah Martin

At the heart of this visual narrative was Sarah Martin's artistry. As a partner photographer of Fancy This Photography, her keen eye for detail and passion for storytelling through images is amazing. She ensured that every emotion, ritual, and candid moment were meticulously documented. Specializing in Chapel Hill wedding photography, Sarah's expertise played a pivotal role in preserving the authenticity of Sammi and Neal's Jewish wedding at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill. She helped immortalize their love story in a collection of timeless memories.

Personalized Chapel Hill Wedding Photography

Sammi and Neal's wedding is a shining example of Fancy This Photography's commitment to capturing the unique essence of each couple's love story. The team's dedication, coupled with Sarah Martin's artistry, goes beyond the conventional. Every Fancy This Photography couple receives a visual narrative that authentically reflects the magic of their celebration.

Jewish Wedding at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill

This intimate Jewish wedding at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill marked a heartfelt celebration of love, tradition, and togetherness for Sammi and Neal. We were honored and privileged to witness this incredible wedding. With Fancy This Photography led by Sarah Martin, the images captured on this day will serve as a testament to the timeless beauty of Sammi and Neal’s love and family.

Photography // Fancy This Photography

Venue // The Carolina Inn