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

Ashley and Jack’s Backyard Wedding in Chapel Hill Fancy This Photography

Ashley Low and Jack Mountain got ready to exchange vows in a backyard wedding in Chapel Hill on the rainy Saturday morning of May 19, 2023. Their spring wedding was captured by Fancy This Photography founder and owner, Nikki Whitt Belch, wielding a Nikon D850 and a Nikon Z6ii. Courtney Collins, Fancy This Photography partner, contributed as second shooter. The Low Family Home was a perfect venue. The home was a fresh spring backdrop featuring meadows and blooming magnolia trees.

"I really loved the vibe of the couple," says Nikki. "They were so inclusive, all about each other, and just a vibe together."

Nikki's camera lens focused on Ashley and Jack’s genuine love, joy and quirks. She captured all of the wedding highlights, like funky fingernail art and heartfelt family moments.

Backyard Wedding in Chapel Hill

The wedding included a post-ceremony and reception Southern tradition – a pig pickin'. Combining their wedding with the Low family's annual pig pickin' made for a one-of-a-kind celebration. Fancy This Photography was privileged to document both events.

For more insights into planning a backyard wedding, check out our blog. Stay tuned for more candid moments from Ashley and Jack’s backyard wedding in Chapel Hill.

The Perks of Hosting a Backyard Wedding

Hosting a backyard wedding is a beautiful and sentimental choice, but it comes with challenges. Every detail of Ashley and Jack’s backyard wedding unfolded as a testament to their unique love story. Savannah with Carly Marie Events helped the couple plan and execute their backyard wedding seamlessly. From the carefully crafted ceremony setup to the romantic tented reception, Ashley and Jack’s wedding is the perfect example of a backyard wedding gone right!

Logistics: The Backyard Wedding Advantage

Hosting a backyard wedding gave Ashley and Jack the freedom to pick their preferred date without the competition with other couples. Their springtime ceremony took place on Saturday, May 19, at 6:00 p.m. Fancy This Photography captured Ashley and Jack’s love amidst the branches and twinkle lights.

The Low Family Home was a sweet backdrop, allowing the couple to personalize the venue. The outdoor ceremony, framed by magnolia branches and pine trees, featured pink hydrangeas at the top of the aisle. A well blanketed with white and green flowers created a romantic altar. The reception, hosted beneath a tent illuminated by candles and twinkling lights, defined backyard wedding romance.

Ashley and Jack's wedding weekend had a relaxed and heartfelt atmosphere, perfectly aligning with Fancy This Photography's style. The familiarity of the backyard setting contributed to the overall comfort of the event. The added convenience of having all events - from getting ready to the ceremony, reception, and pig pickin' - in one location ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience for both the couple and their guests. No unnecessary shuttle rides across town—just a well-coordinated celebration against the backdrop of Chapel Hill.

Four reasons why backyard weddings are a good idea:

Intimacy and Personalization:
Backyard weddings create a more intimate and personal setting for the celebration. For example, the Low Family home has a special place in Ashley and Jack’s memories. Familiar surroundings make an event even more meaningful.

Cost-Effective:
Backyard weddings can be more budget-friendly compared to renting a venue. The money couple’s save on wedding venue fees can be used for other aspects of the wedding like custom catering or floral design.

DIY Opportunities:
Backyard weddings allow for more DIY decorations and personal touches. Ashley and Jack showcased their creativity by transforming the Low family home into an outdoor wedding dreamscape.

Family Connection:
Backyard weddings let couples celebrate in a space with sentimental significance. The Low Family home has been the backdrop of beautiful celebrations and memories in Ashley and Jack’s lives.

Being able to photograph the joy and love of family and friends at this private residence was an honor for Fancy This Photography!

Backyard Wedding Blossoms and Bites

Let's take a moment to praise the floral arrangements by Tre Bella that decorated this backyard wedding in Chapel Hill. From the bouquets to the altar blanketed with timeless blooms, every petal whispered romance. What sets Ashley and Jack's backyard wedding apart is their embrace of color. The warm hues of pink and deep moody purples added a vibrancy to this springtime soiree.

And now, let's talk about the culinary masterpiece that was served at this tented wedding reception. Mediterranean Deli, a local gem nestled in the heart of Chapel Hill, delivered a feast that dazzled the taste buds and the eyes. The platters of food showcased in these photos are a testament to Med Deli's legendary expertise in catering.

In a harmonious blend of Tre Bella's florals and Mediterranean Deli's catering, Ashley and Jack's backyard wedding became a sensory symphony. This backyard wedding is an ode to Chapel Hill's romance and local talents.

Coordination // Savannah with Carly Marie Events

Flowers // Tre Bella

Catering // Mediterranean Deli

Pig Pickin’ Wedding Celebration

A "pig pickin'" is a special Southern tradition, especially popular in the Carolinas. It's a social gathering centered around the roasting of a whole hog. Pig pickin’s are usually hosted at someone’s house and in their backyard. Casual in nature, pig pickin’s focus on good food and even better company. The pig is usually served with coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, hushpuppies, greens, potato salad and other regional specialties. Ashley and Jack’s post-wedding pig pickin’ featured a lively bluegrass band and bouncy house.

Preserving Memories with Fancy This Photography

If a backyard wedding is in your future, trust Fancy This Photography to capture your big day or weekend in timeless photos. Click here to schedule a free consultation with Fancy This Photography.

Looking for more backyard wedding inspiration? Witness the magic of Yolanda and Megan’s backyard wedding in Mebane, North Carolina. Click here to see their blog, where love, joy, and the charm of a backyard setting come together perfectly.

Photography // Fancy This Photography 

Coordination // Savannah with Carly Marie Events

Flowers // Tre Bella

Venue // Private Residence

Catering // Mediterranean Deli

Video // LionFish Films