Drag Brunch Raleigh NC Supports Crape Myrtle Festival

Happy Pride Month, y’all! We’re stoked to share highlights from a Y2K-inspired drag brunch hosted at The Maxwell in Raleigh, North Carolina. This event benefited the Crape Myrtle Festival and was captured by Nikki Whitt Belch of Fancy This Photography, with support from second shooter and partner photographer Sarah Martin.

On March 11, 2025, Nina, owner of Raleigh-based hair and makeup company Wedded Kiss, brought together an amazing group of local vendors and performers to raise funds and awareness for the Crape Myrtle Festival. Nina and her team are passionate about affirming all identities and celebrating every body and every kind of love. We can’t recommend them enough for their commitment to inclusivity.

Nina created an unforgettable celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, community, and human rights, partnering with businesses across the Triangle. From dazzling drag performances to delicious breakfast by Beau Catering and rainbow décor, the brunch was serving Y2K vibes. Nikki, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, was honored to document every fab moment.

“I have worked with the Crape Myrtle Festival since my wee years in photography school (2013),” says Nikki. “It's funny that it comes full circle as I am in my career. I love what they stand for.”

From left to right: Emory Starr, Chloe Cassidy, Nina of Wedded Kiss, Nikki of Fancy This Photography, and Kayla LaShay. Drag Brunch Raleigh NC Supports Crape Myrtle Festival at The Maxwell 2025.

About the Crape Myrtle Festival

The Crape Myrtle Festival is a nonprofit organization that supports individuals living with HIV by raising funds for financial assistance, outreach, and education within the local LGBTQ+ community. It also promotes creativity, diversity, and inclusion. Crape Myrtle Festival celebrates these efforts through fabulous events like this one. Click here to learn more.

Behind the Scenes of a Y2K-Themed Drag Brunch

This Y2K-themed drag brunch was a colorful collaboration of talented North Carolina wedding and event pros. Nathan Wellman designed the rainbow balloon décor giving major Lisa Frank vibes. Color Fields Flowers styled technicolor blooms over shimmering sequin linens. Neon pink napkins and on-theme party rentals from Curated Events Raleigh added an extra pop to the tablescapes. The Maxwell’s stylish, blank canvas event space was the perfect backdrop for all the fun, nostalgic details.

Of course, the stars of the show were the queens themselves: a huge thank-you and bravo to performers Emory Starr, Kayla LaShay, and Chloe Cassidy for lighting up the room.

Keep scrolling to see more of the magic from this epic Drag Brunch Raleigh NC at The Maxwell, captured by Fancy This Photography.

The Maxwell Raleigh event venue can host up to 400 guests and features whitewashed brick walls, oak finishes, and luxury lighting. Don’t miss that fireplace! Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Y2K Party Details - Drag Brunch Raleigh NC

There were no assigned seats at this fabulous drag brunch. Instead, a sea of bedazzled tables covered in sequin linens, colorful florals and Y2K-inspired décor. The Maxwell’s Great Room served as a sweet setting for the party. This modern Raleigh wedding and event venue can host up to 400 guests and features whitewashed brick walls, oak finishes, and luxury lighting.

Fancy This Photography has captured many weddings and styled editorials at The Maxwell for Heart of NC Weddings magazine, but this event was one-of-a-kind. With its retro, technicolor palette and meaningful mission. This drag brunch was eye candy with a powerful cause. The Crape Myrtle Festival, a nonprofit close to Fancy This Photography’s heart, supports North Carolina’s LGBTQ+ community and individuals living with HIV.

Crape Myrtle Festival events are 100% volunteer-led, and proceeds from this brunch directly benefited the foundation’s work in advocacy, outreach, and support. Click here to learn more. 

Brunch by Beau Catering

The brunch menu, served by Beau Catering, was a delicious spread of warm breakfast favorites. And y’all know it wouldn’t be brunch without mimosas! The rainbow drink bar was pure Y2K magic.

Hair & Makeup by Wedded Kiss

Nina of Wedded Kiss brought the beauty to the event. Y’all, she leads one of the top hair and makeup teams in North Carolina. Whether you’re planning your wedding or need a new headshot, we can’t recommend Wedded Kiss enough. Their skill and affirming approach help every client feel seen, celebrated, and confident.

Here’s the thing: Whether you’re all about natural glam or a full beat, we want you feel confident and beautiful in your photos. At Fancy This Photography, our team goal goes beyond just snapping pretty pictures. We’re dedicated to capturing you in a way that is authentic and affirming.

We specialize in documenting moments with true-to-life color and professional composition. We want every image to reflect your truth, your energy, and the memory of the moment. Whether you’re serving soft and subtle eye shadow or bold and bright lipstick, we’ll make sure your photos feel just as good as they look.

From left to right: Kayla LaShay, Chloe Cassidy, and Emory Starr. Drag Brunch Raleigh NC Supports Crape Myrtle Festival at The Maxwell, March 11, 2025.

Photo Backdrop by Nathan Wellman

Do you love balloon décor? So do we. This rainbow installation was a nostalgic nod to the late, great Lisa Frank aka the queen of bold colors and Y2K vibes. Nathan Wellman designed the incredible balloon arch, creating a cool photo backdrop that had guests lining up for pics all brunch long.

Second Shooter Shout-Out

A special shout-out to my fabulous second shooter and partner photographer, Sarah Martin. Fancy This Photography is so thankful for you! Pictured above. :)

Sarah’s couples share that her relaxed, gentle approach puts them completely at ease, allowing their true selves to shine in every frame. That’s her superpower. If you’re looking for a photographer who truly sees you and is committed to helping you feel confident and radiant, Sarah is your girl.

Kayla LaShay greets a table of Drag Brunch Raleigh NC attendees at The Maxwell.

Drag Brunch Raleigh NC

We can’t say it enough, Fancy This Photography was honored to capture this Y2K-inspired Drag Brunch Raleigh NC in support of the Crape Myrtle Festival. This local organization is led by kind, passionate individuals who are deeply committed to giving back to the queer community. They are beautiful people, inside and out!

The Crape Myrtle Festival is a legendary institution in North Carolina, providing resources, education, and support for individuals living with HIV and the broader LGBTQ+ community. Events like this drag brunch are not only a party, they're a powerful force for good. If you’ve never attended one, we highly recommend it. What are you waiting for? Get ready for top-tier entertainment, delicious food, and an atmosphere full of love and pride. Click here to learn more about the Crape Myrtle Festival.

Chloe Cassidy dazzles the audience with her Drag Queen performance at The Maxwell in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Emory Starr shines bright in Drag Queen performance supporting Crape Myrtle Festival at The Maxwell in Raleigh, North Carolina. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Emory Starr // Drag Brunch Raleigh NC // Fancy This Photography // The Maxwell

Looking for someone to capture your organization’s next event with professional, authentic imagery?

Fancy This Photography would love to help. Click here to schedule a free consultation.

From left to right: Emory Starr, Chloe Cassidy, Nina of Wedded Kiss, and Kayla LaShay.

Photography // Nikki, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography 

Host & Beauty // Wedded Kiss 

Venue // The Maxwell 

DJ // DJ Randy B

Caterer // Beau Catering

Florals // Color Fields Flowers

Balloon Decor // Nathan Wellman

Party Rentals // Curated Events Raleigh

Drag Queens // Chloe Cassidy, Emory Starr, Kayla LaShay

Morehead City Engagement Session by Fancy This Photography

Today’s blog is a throwback! Travel back in time with us to appreciate the sweet love and romance of Katie Brown and John Gaito’s Morehead City engagement session. Before Nikki captured their stunning fall 2024 wedding at The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, North Carolina, she headed to the coast to photograph the couple in one of their favorite places.

Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, specializes in destination engagements, elopements and weddings. She loves getting the chance to help tell a couple’s story in a location that means something to them.

Katie and John chose Fancy This Photography because they wanted a photographer who would help them feel comfortable in front of the camera.

“I felt like I had known Nikki my whole life,” says Katie. 

“She was so personable and excited to be part of our big day. It made me happy knowing she was going to be a big part of creating our memories.”

That ease and connection began during their Morehead City engagement session. From walking on the beach to cruising in their boat, the couple had fun doing the things they love most. Their Morehead City engagement session was even featured in the 2025 issue of Heart of NC Weddings magazine.

“Nikki made it so fun and relaxing,” Katie remembers. “She kept hyping me up, and we ended up having a great time.”

Keep scrolling to learn more about Fancy This’ destination photography services. Enjoy witnessing the beauty and love Katie and John share, as it shines through each image. Click here to see their real wedding at The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, NC.

Katie Brown and John Gaito share a sunset kiss during their Morehead City engagement session on Aug. 17, 2024. Photo by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography.

Behind the Scenes of a Morehead City Engagement Session

The weather was dreamy for a Morehead City engagement session in August. Nikki used her Nikon Z6II camera along with two lenses, a 50mm and a 24-70mm, to capture the adventure.

Katie and John started the shoot with some playful dockside photos alongside their family and their 4-year-old French bulldog, Lilly. Then, it was time for a sunset cruise! Katie, John and Nikki climbed aboard the family boat and set off into the open water for some incredible beach engagement photos.

Katie & John, Morehead City Engagement Session August 2024. Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, specializes in destination engagements, elopements and weddings.

Q&A With Nikki Whitt Belch, Founder and Owner of Fancy This Photography

Q: What do you enjoy most about destination engagement photo shoots?

A: They just feel like the couple. You really get a good sense of who they are and what they enjoy doing in their free time. It’s also a great point in their wedding planning journey, when they’re excited and having fun, and it makes for a perfect opportunity to take stunning photos in a location that matters to them.

Q: Why do you recommend destination engagement sessions?

A: I LOVE a destination engagement session! I definitely recommend it if the couple has a place that’s sentimental to them. Each couple is different, some love the mountains, some love the beach. Some have spent summers in a specific beach house, visiting the same shops and making memories in that one spot.

“Your engagement session should feel like YOU. Let’s not stick you in a random field somewhere. Let’s pick a location with extra meaning.” -Nikki Whitt Belch

A Brief Love Story: Katie Brown and John Gaito

Katie and John first met in 2016 when John worked for Katie’s father at their family business, Action Ski and Outdoor Tours. At the time, John was attending East Carolina University, and Katie was a student at Meredith College. They began talking in 2018 and officially started dating that August. John proposed to Katie in the Highlands of North Carolina on Nov. 4, 2023. The rest is history!

Katie and John’s 2024 Morehead City engagement session was even featured in the 2025 issue of Heart of NC Weddings magazine. Photo by Nikki Whitt Belch, Fancy This Photography

If you're planning a beach engagement session, we recommend choosing the intracoastal waterways. While the ocean is undeniably beautiful and magical, North Carolina’s intracoastal waters often offer better sunsets and calmer conditions.

Morehead City Engagement Photos

Morehead City, North Carolina, is the biggest town on the Crystal Coast. It’s cute as can be. With its quaint downtown, waterfront views and deep history, it’s a sweet spot for a destination engagement, elopement or wedding.

Located about three hours from Raleigh, Morehead City is bordered by Bogue Sound to the south and the Newport River to the north and east.

If you're planning a beach engagement session, we recommend choosing the intracoastal waterways. While the ocean is undeniably beautiful and magical, North Carolina’s intracoastal waters often offer better sunsets and calmer conditions. The intercoastal waterways are truly perfect for romantic photo shoots.

Fun Facts: Morehead City is also known for events like the Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament in June and the North Carolina Seafood Festival in October. Nearby attractions include Fort Macon State Park, the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, and the North Carolina Maritime Museum.

The weather was dreamy for Katie and John’s Morehead City engagement session in August. Nikki used her Nikon Z6II camera along with two lenses, a 50mm and a 24-70mm, to capture the adventure.

Katie & John | Morehead City Engagement Session - Photo by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography

Fashion for Beach Engagement Photos

When you opt for an adventurous destination engagement session, outfit changes can be tricky. It’s easy to see why Katie and John picked one coordinated look and stuck with it. Changing clothes on a boat or beach can be a challenge. In such a stunning location, you really don’t need multiple outfits.

Their wardrobe choices suited the setting of their Morehead City engagement session beautifully. A suit and tie or high heels wouldn’t have made much sense for photos like these.

Katie wore a breezy, cottagecore-style cap-sleeve dress with ruffles and a black-and-white Renaissance print. Statement earrings, a delicate necklace and bracelets, and a Gucci sun hat added the right touch of personality and polish. Her dress looked cool in motion, blowing in the wind on the boat and along the shore.

John kept it classic and coastal in a light-blue plaid button-down shirt tucked into khaki shorts. The finishing touch? A playful fish-print belt. Together, their outfits reflected the charm of Morehead City and their personal style.

Whether you're planning a destination engagement or looking for a North Carolina photographer to capture your wedding day, Fancy This Photography would be honored to document this special season of your life.

Katie & John | Morehead City Engagement Session 2024 - Photo by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography

Whether you're planning a destination engagement or looking for a North Carolina photographer to capture your wedding day, Fancy This Photography would be honored to document this special time of your life. From Morehead City engagement sessions to Key West weddings, our team is ready to travel. We are ready to capture your love story, wherever it takes place.

Apex NC Therapy Bloom Psychology Branded Photo Shoot

Hey y’all! We’re excited to feature Dr. Marina Harris, sport psychologist, speaker, CEO, and performance consultant, on today’s blog.

Dr. Marina first worked with Fancy This Photography in 2019 when founder and owner Nikki Whitt Belch captured her wedding at The Mayton Inn in Cary, North Carolina. Nikki and the entire team love keeping up with former clients, so when Dr. Marina reached out for a professional branded photo shoot for her Apex NC therapy business, Nikki was all in.

“Dr. Marina has become a friend.”

Dr. Marina is a licensed psychologist and CEO of Bloom Psychology Group, PLLC. The 90-minute branded photo shoot took place at Three Oaks Studio in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Nikki guided her through outfit choices and posing, capturing a mix of wide shots with open space for adding logos or messaging and cohesive stock imagery. These branded photos can be used across Dr. Marina’s website, workbooks and courses. The goal was to create visuals that aligned with Bloom Psychology’s brand aesthetic and color palette.

Dr. Marina Harris is a licensed psychologist and CEO of Bloom Psychology Group, PLLC. Learn more about her services at bloompsychologync.com. Photo by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography.

About Bloom Psychology: Apex NC Therapy 

Dr. Marina Harris helps perfectionist high-achievers (and their families) feel more confident and calm. As a former Division I gymnast, she understands the anxiety and pressure that come with high performance. Today, she specializes in helping clients feel more balanced, worthy and at peace in their bodies.

Bloom Psychology Group, PLLC, offers therapy services exclusively via telehealth, making care accessible throughout North Carolina. Dr. Marina also shares resources through her Bloom Newsletter. For things like workbooks, courses and meditations, visit her digital store, Bloom Wellness Collaborative.

Keep scrolling to learn more about Dr. Marina’s Apex NC therapy practice and her branded photo shoot with Fancy This Photography.

Props are a fun way to add personality and context to your brand photos.

Professional Headshots by Fancy This Photography 

Why do I need professional headshots? 

Your headshot is a part of your personal brand. It’s like the first impression a client or customer gets. A great headshot reflects your personality, professionalism, and expertise. It also shows that you take your business (and yourself) seriously. With a branded photo shoot, clients of Fancy This Photography receive cohesive, high-quality images that can be used across all digital and print platforms. Consistent visuals and messaging are essential to building a strong brand identity.

How should I pose for headshots or a branded photo shoot?

For branded photo sessions, variety is important. Mix it up with standing and seated poses, action and stillness, relaxed and confident energy. Nikki, a professional photographer with decades of experience, expertly guides clients through each pose. During Dr. Marina’s Apex NC therapy branded photo session, Nikki helped her look both fierce and natural on camera.

Google suggests updating your headshots every one to two years, and we agree. Keeping your photos current helps maintain authenticity and keeps you aligned with your brand.

Apex NC Therapy Bloom Psychology Branded Photo Shoot

What should I wear for a branded photo shoot?

Dr. Marina’s outfits were cohesive and on-brand. Nikki offered helpful wardrobe suggestions, encouraging her to choose solid colors that complemented Bloom Psychology’s brand palette. Soft neutrals and green were spot on. Nikki also recommended bringing a blazer for a few bold, professional shots. “Honestly, she killed it. Ten out of ten,” says Nikki.

How often should I update my headshots?

Google suggests updating your headshots every one to two years, and we agree. Keeping your photos current helps maintain authenticity and keeps you aligned with your evolving brand. Don’t catfish your clients!

High-quality stock images are useful in graphic design and brand storytelling.

Stock Images: Branded Photo Shoot for Bloom Psychology

What are stock images and why do I need them?

Stock images are ready-made photos that businesses use to create consistent, professional visuals across websites, social media, and marketing materials. High-quality stock images are useful in graphic design and brand storytelling. No shade, but Fancy This Photography images look more polished and authentic than the free stock images you’ll find on Canva or stock sites.

This branded photo shoot with Dr. Marina offers examples of professional stock imagery. Check out the wide-shot image of the white couch featured above. A viewer can picture themselves receiving therapy in that calming space. Or the close-up shots of pens and books, which highlight Dr. Marina’s expertise and profession. Nikki was intentional in creating images that Dr. Marina could use across her website, workbooks and courses. You can tell that everything intentionally aligns with Bloom Psychology’s brand.

These branded photos by Fancy This Photography can be used across Dr. Marina’s website, workbooks and courses.

Branded Photo Shoot Props to Consider

Want to personalize your branded photo shoot? Props are a fun way to add personality and context to your photos. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Books – Choose titles that reflect your business or area of expertise.

• Pens – A symbol of professionalism and intelligence. Colorful or funky pens add personality and style.

• Laptop – If you work virtually, your laptop is a must. Dr. Marina offers therapy services exclusively via telehealth, making care accessible throughout North Carolina.

• Phone – An appropriate prop if you communicate with clients this way. Your phone case shows your personality, whether you like it or not!

• Paper – like your business card, branded folders or stationery with your logo.

• Merchandise – Rock your brand’s T-shirt, hat or other swag.

• Coffee in your fave mug – Relatable and cozy. It adds a relaxed, human element that’s not overly “business.”

• Your pet – If your pet hangs out at the office, include them! It’s cute and makes you look very approachable.

• Plants – Always a good idea. They’re calming, pretty, and visually fresh.

Dr. Marina Harris - Apex NC Therapy Bloom Psychology Branded Photo Shoot // Photo by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography

Dr. Marina Harris - Apex NC Therapy Bloom Psychology Branded Photo Shoot // Photo by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography

More examples of branded photo shoots by Fancy This Photography:

Yoga Photo Shoot by Fancy This Photography 

Vogue Features Aesthetic Solutions in Chapel Hill 

Illuminating the Art of Sushi: Food Photography at M Sushi

Ready to elevate your business with a professional branded photo shoot?

We’d love to help! Click here to schedule a free consultation with the team at Fancy This Photography.