Victoria + Cody Marry at The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, NC

Photographed by Nikki

"To find someone who will love you for no reason, and to shower that person with reasons, that is the ultimate happiness." - Robert Brault

Imagine stepping into a dream-like setting, where every enchanting detail comes together to create the wedding of your wildest fairytale fantasies. At the Carolina Inn, in Chapel Hill, this magical experience becomes a reality. From the moment you arrive, you'll be immersed in an ambiance that is at once captivating and timeless. From the unforgettable first look to the breathtaking beauty of the Bryan Courtyard, we'll take you on a journey through each exquisite moment of your fairytale celebration. With elegant touches like burgundy and navy accents and a memorable sparkler exit, your wedding day will be a true masterpiece. Join us as we delve into the enchantment of the Carolina Inn, in Chapel Hill and discover how you can create your own fairytale wedding. So, let's dive in and make your dreams come true.

The First Look to Remember

—the first look. It's that instant when time stands still, and you and your partner lock eyes for the first time on your wedding day. At the Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, this cherished tradition takes on a whole new level of enchantment. Most bride and grooms Fancy This Photography shoot at the Carolina Inn, choose to do the first look in the hallway just off the West Ballroom. Here, the black and white checkered floor, the greenery and the gorgeous light make it a perfect place to capture those first moments together.

After a first look we often invite the bridal party to take some photos before the ceremony as well, everything moves seamlessly into the next and you will have memories to last you a lifetime.

The Breathtaking Beauty of the Bryan Courtyard

In the midst of the Carolina Inn's captivating charm lies a hidden gem that takes your breath away: the Bryan Courtyard. Nestled amidst lush greenery and adorned with delicate blooms, this enchanting outdoor space is a true oasis of serenity. As you step into the courtyard, the world seems to fade away, leaving only you and your partner, surrounded by the natural beauty that envelops you.

The Bryan Courtyard is a haven where time slows down, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the moment. The gentle rustling of leaves whispers secrets of love and happiness, while the sun's warm rays dance upon your skin, bestowing a golden glow upon the scene. You and your partner find solace in the arms of nature, as if the universe itself has conspired to create this ethereal setting just for you.

Victoria and Cody chose to have twinkle lights around the main tree they were married under and the ceremony was truly so elegant as the light of the day became soft and glowing.

Elegant Touches: Burgundy and Navy Accents

Elegant touches await, as burgundy and navy accents add a touch of sophistication and grace to the vibrant tapestry that is your special day.

Picture a setting adorned with rich burgundy and deep navy details, seamlessly intertwined with the natural beauty of the Carolina Inn. The combination of these bold and timeless colors brings an air of elegance, creating a stunning visual display that will leave a lasting impression on all who attend.

Burgundy, with its deep, velvety hue, symbolizes love, warmth, and passion. Incorporating this color into your wedding will infuse the atmosphere with an undeniable sense of romance, evoking emotions on the most extraordinary level. From the bridesmaids' dresses to the floral arrangements, each element will draw from this regal shade, adding depth and allure to the overall aesthetic.

Complementing the richness of burgundy, navy brings a sense of sophistication and formality to the occasion. It’s deep, dark tone creates a striking contrast, highlighting the refined details and creating a sense of balance throughout the event. From the groomsmen's suits to the table linens, the navy accents will add a touch of timeless elegance, elevating the ambiance to new heights.

Let the Party Begin

The elegant ballroom adorned with twinkling lights, the tables meticulously set with soft floral centerpieces, and the sounds of laughter and joy filling the air. As the evening unfolds, you and your guests will be treated to a feast fit for royalty, curated by the talented chefs at the Carolina Inn. From delectable hors d'oeuvres to mouthwatering entrees and decadent desserts, every bite will be a testament to culinary perfection.

As the night progresses, the dance floor will come alive with music that will make it impossible for anyone to resist the urge to move their feet. With the help of a professional DJ or live band, the atmosphere will be electrifying, ensuring that every guest is having the time of their lives. Whether you and your partner have an intimate first dance or you decide to surprise your guests with a choreographed routine, the moments on the dance floor will be etched in everyone's memories forever.

And let's not forget about the drinks! The Carolina Inn boasts a team of skilled mixologists who will craft signature cocktails that embody the spirit of your fairytale wedding. From whimsical concoctions served in delicate glassware to classic favorites with a sophisticated twist, each sip will be a delightful journey for the taste buds.

A Memorable Sparkler Exit

As the celebration reaches its climax, the anticipation of your grand exit begins to build. It's a moment when time stands still, and all eyes are on you and your partner, ready to bid farewell to your loved ones and embark on a new chapter of your lives together. To make this moment even more magical and unforgettable, consider incorporating a Memorable Sparkler Exit into your fairytale wedding at the Carolina Inn.

Your enchanted celebration awaits. The Carolina Inn is ready to embrace your vision, to bring your dreams to life. Don't wait another moment to seize this opportunity. Contact us now and let us whisk you away into the realm of happily ever after.

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A Rehearsal Dinner at The Lantern | Chapel Hill

Planning a rehearsal dinner is a big job, but when you choose The Lantern in Chapel Hill, the possibilities are endless. From intimate, romantic private dining spaces to delicious meals cooked with local, seasonal ingredients, The Lantern offers a stunning, unique venue for the rehearsal dinner of your dreams. If you’re looking to keep it simple, you can rent out the entire restaurant for a private event (including the outdoor patio) and have your rehearsal dinner catered with food and beverage packages to match any taste. With a variety of menu options, from farm-to-table entrees to housemade desserts, you’ll be able to create a one-of-a-kind experience for your wedding party and guests.

Photographer // Nikki, Fancy This Photography

Venue // The Carolina Inn

Planner // Events By Lafete

DJ // Bunn DJ Company

Cake // Edible Art Bakery, Raleigh

Hair + Makeup // Blushed Bridal

Linens // Curated Events, Raleigh

Flowers // Ninth Street Flowers

The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill Wedding of Your Dreams

Does your blood bleed Carolina blue? Are freshly baked biscuits your love language? Is the front porch your happy place? If you said “yes” to any of these questions, then this is The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill wedding of your dreams. Fancy This Photography has captured dozens of weddings at The Carolina Inn, but Leslie Bumgarner and Dan Pascucci's was unlike any they’ve ever witnessed. From the Hill Ballroom ceremony to the breathtaking Old Well Ballroom reception, every moment was pure photo gold. Y’all, this Carolina Inn Chapel Hill wedding was a combination of swagger and sophistication. 

For several reasons, The Carolina Inn is North Carolina wedding venue royalty. The first being its prime location in the heart of one of the nation’s sweetest college towns. UNC Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789, making it one of the oldest public universities in the U.S. The Carolina Inn was established in 1924, 135 years after UNC, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. UNC’s landmark, the Old Well, is just a block away from the hotel. But you do not have to be a UNC alum to get married at The Carolina Inn. This historic town has enough southern flavor for all of your friends and family to enjoy. Explore restaurants and bars lining downtown’s Franklin Street or take a stroll through campus in between wedding festivities. If you’re ravenous, you don’t even have to stray far from the inn. 

Dine with Executive Chef Jeremy Blankenship at Crossroads Chapel Hill, The Carolina Inn's on-site restaurant. Crossroads offers classic Carolina cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. We highly recommend trying the Crossroads burger with fries or the Crossroads breakfast! Or, invite guests to experience afternoon tea, a unique and scrumptious Southern tradition. Not hungry? Order a handcrafted cocktail from the bar and sip it outside beside a fire pit. 

This gorgeous Carolina Inn Chapel Hill wedding was photographed by Fancy This Photography team member Sarah Martin. To meet Sarah and learn more about her wedding photography services, click here.

Leslie Bumgarner and Dan Pascucci said "I do" at The Carolina Inn on Oct. 9, 2021.

All-Inclusive Chapel Hill Wedding Venue 

The Carolina Inn is an all-inclusive venue. Which is one of the many reasons why Leslie and Dan chose The Carolina Inn as their Chapel Hill wedding venue. All-inclusive venues also offer on-site guest accommodations, catering, cake, rentals, décor and coordination. All-inclusive venues are ideal for couples who value convenience and want a stress-free experience. 

So, sit back and relax with your friends and family at The Carolina Inn. This historic hotel has maintained its southern style while embracing modern comforts. Host your bridal shower, engagement party or rehearsal dinner in one of the inn’s more intimate, indoor event spaces. There are also six ballrooms available for hosting large, indoor events. Or take the party outside! There are multiple outdoor event spaces at The Carolina Inn that can be used for the ceremony, cocktail hour or even a tented reception. The fact that guests can comfortably spend the night at the venue makes The Carolina Inn a 10/10 all-inclusive wedding venue.

As photographers, we especially love The Carolina Inn’s architecture and interior design. Hello whimsical doorways and black-and-white checkered marble floors! If it rains, like it did on Leslie and Dan’s special day, there are equally gorgeous photo backdrops inside. 

Keep scrolling to learn more about Leslie and Dan’s love story and to witness their timeless Carolina Inn Chapel Hill wedding. It will knock your argyle socks right off.

Are You Planning a Chapel Hill Wedding?

Pro Tip: Because The Carolina Inn is located on UNC Chapel Hill’s campus, it’s important to consider campus events that might impact your wedding. Hotel rooms in Chapel Hill tend to require a two-night minimum stay on weekends when events such as commencement or the UNC vs. Duke men’s basketball take place. The football schedule is released in mid-February and the basketball schedule is released in late-August/September. Click here to see the UNC Chapel Hill academic calendar.

Press Rewind: Leslie & Dan’s Love Story

Leslie Bumgarner is originally from Raleigh, NC and went to school at UNC-Chapel Hill while Dan is from Binghamton, NY and went to school at James Madison University in VA. Leslie and Dan’s love story started on the wrong foot. Dan and Leslie were set up by friends. They started with an email, then a phone call (not even a Facetime), and finally met in person for a first date a few weeks later. On Dec. 11, 2016 Dan canceled his first date with Leslie last minute. As you might’ve guessed, she immediately wrote him off. But, Leslie has a big heart and on Dec. 16 she went on a successful first date with Dan. Almost five years after that, they got married! They got engaged on Valentine's Day of 2021.

Many more dates followed that first one and in September of 2017, the couple said “I love you” in the kitchen of Dan’s house. In 2019, Leslie moved in with Dan. Then the world shut down. A pandemic is the ultimate test for any relationship. Luckily, they passed with flying colors. They actually started looking at rings together in September of 2020 and found the one on a pre-Thanksgiving trip to New York City to visit several vintage jewelry shops. They then went through Thanksgiving, their dating anniversary, Christmas, New Year's, and Leslie’s birthday before Dan proposed. Needless to say, at that point Leslie just wanted it to happen and wasn't too concerned with the details!

On Feb. 14, 2021, after Valentine’s Day dinner at their first-date restaurant, Dan proposed. What’s the phrase that people usually say? Oh yes, the rest was history! 

This iconic hallway at The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill wedding venue is lined with windows, filled with natural light and adorned by vintage light fixtures and greenery. Perfect for taking wedding photos!

The Carolina Inn Chapel Hill Wedding Weekend 

Leslie and Dan chose the Carolina Inn as their back as they loved the down-home glamour of the Inn. They had checked out several hotel venues close to where they live in northern VA, but didn't feel particularly inspired by any of them. The Inn was the perfect mix of beautiful and classic (those black-and-white floors!) without feeling stuffy or lacking personality. Plus, they knew their guests would be able to cut loose and have fun!

Leslie and Dan kicked-off wedding festivities with a warm welcome party at the Fearrington Village Garden Terrace on Friday, Oct. 8, 2021. The next day, rain threatened to ruin their original plans for an outdoor, courtyard wedding ceremony. The Carolina Inn’s staff sprung into action and transitioned the outdoor ceremony into the Hill Ballroom. Named after The Carolina Inn’s founder, John Sprunt Hill, this ballroom offers 3,690 square feet of exquisite carpeting and crystal chandeliers. Photo quality was not impacted at all because The Carolina Inn is such a beautifully diverse wedding venue.

Each room and space within The Carolina Inn delivers its own unique character and ambiance. One of Fancy This Photography’s favorite spots for portraits and/or formals is the black-and-white checkered marble hallway. This iconic hallway is lined with windows, filled with natural light and adorned by vintage light fixtures and greenery. Add the length of the hallway and you get wedding photos with depth and drama. Luckily, the rain stopped enough for the bride and groom to pose for some more beautiful wedding portraits outside. 

What was the couples favorite moment from their wedding weekend?

The couple chose to do a first look an hour and a half before the ceremony was one of their favorite moments of the weekend. It was just for them and they got to connect and celebrate, before the rest of the celebrating! Reciting their vows, being introduced for the first time as Mr. and Mrs., and stealing a few moments alone in the Old Well ballroom before enjoying a sparkler exit are all favorite memories. 

The Old Ballroom at The Carolina Inn is 2,016 square feet and features art-deco inspired décor.

Classic Carolina Inn Chapel Hill Wedding Reception

Leslie and Dan hosted their reception in the Old Well Ballroom. This magnificent event space is 2,016 square feet and features art-deco inspired décor. The terrazzo floor of the ballroom was installed in the 1940s by famous designer Otto Zenke. ​​From 1950 to 1980, Zenke designed some of the finest luxury homes and hotels in North Carolina and along the East Coast. Leslie and Dan adorned the Old Well Ballroom with a color palette of gold, ivory and emerald green. 

Cocktail attire was the dress-code for Leslie and Dan's Carolina Inn wedding. We place cocktail attire somewhere in the middle of elegant and comfortable. Slightly fancier than the office, but less formal than a black-tie event. 

Leslie and Dan wanted a wedding that represented who they are as a couple, while also being visually beautiful and a great party for all of their guests. No small feat, but they focused on choosing details that were important to them and trusted that it would all come together in the end. As far as particulars, they knew they wanted a darker color palette to go with a fall wedding. Their florist, Flowers by Milla, was also amazing at listening to what they wanted and pulling together absolutely amazing flowers that went above and beyond their dreams!  

The terrazzo floor of the Old Well Ballroom was installed in the 1940s by famous designer Otto Zenke.

Leslie and Dan share a beautiful first dance in the Old Well Ballroom at The Carolina Inn.

Book live band, Mr. Potato Head, through EastCoast Entertainment for your upcoming wedding.

Leslie and Dan’s cake cutting ceremony took center stage. Cake by Ambrosia Cake Creations and gelato bar by La Vita Dolce.

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Why Choose Fancy This Photography as your wedding Photographer

We interviewed with several photographers because we decided early on that pictures of the day were something that were very important to both of us. Lots of the people we spoke with had lovely photos of weddings they had been involved in, but there was something special about the work at Fancy This. Once we spoke with Nikki and Sarah, we knew for sure: these were the people we wanted recording every aspect of our big day. Not only could they do beautiful portraits of us, but their photos of ceremonies and receptions had a photojournalistic feel that we knew would be perfect for helping us relive the day, over and over again. —Leslie Bumgarner, the Bride

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Unique and personal details about Leslie and Dan’s wedding weekend

Leslie's father passed away several years ago and it was really important to them that he was still part of their day. One of his favorite bow ties (something blue!) was wrapped around Leslie's bouquet and Dan wore a wristwatch of his. Seeing those little reminders of him helped Leslie feel like he was smiling down on them.

To honor Dan's Italian heritage, they also had a gelato bar available to guests who wanted something other than (or in addition to!) wedding cake as a dessert. Tasting all of the gelato options and narrowing it down to four was one of the funnest, hardest parts of wedding planning!

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If you’re planning a wedding or vacation in Orange County (Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough) we highly recommend using Visit Chapel Hill as your resource guide. Their website offers a list of things to do, must-see landmarks, wedding venues, hotels and more. 

Already gone to Carolina in your mind? Click here to witness Caitlin and Dan’s summer wedding at The Carolina Inn. 

Photographer // Sarah with Fancy This Photography
Venue // The Carolina Inn 
Planner // Mclean Events
Videographer // Heritage Weddings
Florals // Flowers by Milla
Cake // Ambrosia Cake Creations
Rentals // CE Rental 
Gelato Bar // La Vita Dolce
Hair & Makeup // The Makeup Culture
Transportation // Carolina Livery
Ceremony Music // Arioso Strings
Live Band // Mr. Potato Head

Paola & Sean’s Carolina Inn Wedding

Chapel Hill, NC Wedding Photography

Oh my goodness! Get ready for some real pretty to grace your computer/phone screen! I had the privilege of photographing Paola and Sean this past February for their beautiful Carolina Inn wedding.

Have any of you ever been to the Carolina Inn? The Carolina Inn is architecturally significant, blending elements of antebellum southern homes with Georgian and neoclassical features. The building's original front was modeled after George Washington's home at Mt. Vernon on the Potomac River. The North Carolina landmark is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, it is. Brace yourself.

One of the main features of the Inn is its gorgeous black and white checkered floors. There’s a beautiful hallway with natural light flowing in from the windows—this is where Paola and Sean had their first look. It was beautiful to witness, and an even greater honor to photograph their interaction.

Their wedding ceremony took place in the Chancellors Ballroom. Paola’s dad graciously built their ceremony alter, which was this beautiful triangular piece that held the prettiest of flowers made by Kast Events. The room was accented by the nicest of pink colors, hints of blue, and faint whites. It was dreamy, and beautiful to see in person.

Paola and Sean’s wedding was extra special, as they hosted such a fun reception that included a fun happy hour similar to that of one you would see at Carnival. Their reception took place in the gorgeous Old Well Room (again, those beautiful black and white checkered floors!) and was boasting with so much good energy, dancing, beads and masks!

Paola and Sean, congratulations on your marriage! It was an honor to serve you and to document such a great day!

Special thanks to all of their vendors who made this day possible!

Venue & Catering // The Carolina Inn
Planning & Florals // Kast Events & Co.
Officiant // Rev. Barbara Lodge
Ceremony Music // Arioso Strings
Hair and Makeup // Makeup by Ashley Mooney
DJ // Bunn DJ Co.
Cake // Cupcake Shoppe Raleigh
Rentals // CE Rental