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

70s-Inspired Event at Whitaker & Atlantic

Travel back in time with us on the blog as we reminisce about this 70s-inspired event at Whitaker & Atlantic in Raleigh, North Carolina. The warehouse venue, located within Dock 1053 near Five Points, transformed into a disco time capsule for Martha’s groovy birthday celebration. From retro décor to dazzling lights, the event was a visual feast that deserved to be documented. Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, was there to capture every detail and candid moment.

Whitaker & Atlantic is a sought-after wedding and event space near downtown Raleigh. Owner, chef and restaurateur Coleen Speaks opened Whitaker & Atlantic in 2017. The 3,500-square-foot warehouse venue is also home to PoshNosh, Speaks’ catering company. Nestled between a brewery and other local businesses, Whitaker & Atlantic features high ceilings, concrete floors, modern light fixtures and a beautiful wooden bar. The covered open-air patio and retractable garage doors are iconic. The venue can seat up to 150 guests or accommodate 300 standing.

Keep scrolling to see more groovy images from Martha’s 70s-inspired birthday party and learn more about hosting an event at Whitaker & Atlantic.

Whitaker & Atlantic’s covered open-air patio and retractable garage doors are iconic. The venue can seat up to 150 guests or accommodate 300 standing. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Why Event Photography Matters

An event at Whitaker & Atlantic like Martha’s birthday is more than just a gathering. It’s a carefully planned experience filled with meaningful details. Hiring a professional photographer ensures these moments are preserved. From the disco-inspired dance floor to the playful lighting and colorful décor, capturing these elements allows the celebration to live on.

At Fancy This Photography, we focus on the details that make your event unique. Our cameras could not get enough of Martha’s shimmering sequin tablecloths, vintage lava lamps and custom cocktail napkins. Her groovy theme flowed seamlessly throughout the space.

Keep scrolling to see more from this unforgettable event at Whitaker & Atlantic in Raleigh, NC.

70s-Inspired Event at Whitaker & Atlantic in Raleigh, NC | Photo by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography.

70s-Inspired Decor - Event at Whitaker & Atlantic

Walking into the event at Whitaker & Atlantic felt like stepping into a retro dream. Balloons in bold shades of blue framed the entrance, creating a playful arch that welcomed guests into a world of fun. Tables were draped in rich textures of emerald velvet and sparkly sequins, accented by elegant floral arrangements. Guests dressed to match the 70s-inspired theme, adding even more personality and flair to the photos.

A dynamic digital dance floor served as the heart of the celebration, bouncing light off the walls and creating an energetic atmosphere. The lighting tied everything together. Lights cast a warm and inviting glow that felt both nostalgic and groovy.

Guests dressed to match the 70s-inspired birthday party, adding even more personality and flair to the photos by Fancy This Photography.

Capturing the Energy - Event at Whitaker & Atlantic

Our goal as event photographers is to capture the energy of the celebration as well as the artistry of the setup. For Martha’s event at Whitaker & Atlantic, that meant highlighting the bold design choices while also documenting the joy of her friends and family. From fun group shots on the dance floor to candid moments of guests admiring the décor, these images tell the story of the evening.

We love that Martha had a fun outfit change during her groovy, 70s-inspired birthday party at Whitaker & Atlantic in Raleigh, NC. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Make Your Next Event at Whitaker & Atlantic Shine

If you’re planning an event in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill or anywhere in the Triangle, hiring a professional photographer is one of the best ways to elevate your celebration. From groovy birthday parties to corporate events and everything in between, Fancy This Photography captures your unique story with care and creativity.

Venue // Whitaker & Atlantic, Photo // Fancy This Photography

Fiesta at The Cookery Durham NC

The Cookery Durham NC is one of the Triangle area’s top warehouse venues for weddings and private events. We love capturing life’s celebrations at this dynamic space on the edge of downtown Durham. Today’s blog features a private party with a lively Mexican fiesta theme, photographed by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography. Nikki used two Nikon Z6II camera bodies to cover the event over the course of four hours.

There are so many great reasons to hire a professional photographer for your organization’s private event. Whether it’s a corporate conference or an awards gala, professional photos provide an authentic view of how previous events looked. With consistent, high-resolution images, you can see true-to-life color and crisp detail. You also get beautiful, candid photos of attendees.

“Not everyone has a chance to be in front of a camera in their everyday life, so this is a treat,” says Nikki. “Everyone deserves to be documented.”

In addition to intimate private parties, The Cookery can accommodate up to 400 guests for an indoor-outdoor event. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

The Cookery Durham NC Wedding and Event Venue

Fancy This Photography wholeheartedly recommends The Cookery Durham NC as a wedding and event venue. The staff at this downtown Durham gem are immaculate. They are kind, communicative, and supportive throughout the planning process. The Cookery is a beloved Durham staple, offering a surprisingly large and versatile space with many unique locations to photograph.

"I love the dark space amidst the rust," says Nikki. "It is so nice to see the beams of light stream in through the windows. It is magical in its own world."

Keep scrolling to see more photos from this vibrant fiesta at The Cookery Durham NC. Learn more about the venue and what it’s like to work with Fancy This Photography.

It features two spacious ballrooms, multiple outdoor patios, a dressing suite, and a courtyard. We also have to mention the state-of-the-art commercial kitchen. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

We love the exposed brick and uniquely arched doorways throughout The Cookery Durham NC. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Learn More: Fiesta at The Cookery Durham NC

The Cookery Durham NC is a deceptively large event venue. It features two spacious ballrooms, multiple outdoor patios, a dressing suite, and a courtyard. We also have to mention the state-of-the-art commercial kitchen, which North Carolina catering company Donovan’s Dish utilized for the private event pictured here. The Cookery’s “front room” offers vaulted ceilings and massive windows that fill the space with natural light.

We love the exposed brick and uniquely arched doorways throughout The Cookery Durham NC. Colorful floral arrangements by An Event To Remember and rentals from American Party Rentals added a warm, inviting vibe to the warehouse venue. Look closely, the fiery uplighting provided by Signature Sound and Lighting made the brick walls glow! The lighting technician also doubled as DJ.

In addition to intimate private parties, The Cookery can accommodate up to 400 guests for an indoor-outdoor event.

Colorful floral arrangements by An Event To Remember and rentals from American Party Rentals added a warm, inviting vibe to the warehouse venue. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Interested in booking Fancy This Photography to capture your organization’s private event? Click here to schedule a free consultation.

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

Venue // The Cookery Durham NC

Rentals // American Party Rentals

Caterer // Donovan's Dish

Planner, Designer, Florals // An Event To Remember

DJ // Signature Sound and Lighting

Dessert // Two Roosters