Posts tagged cary wedding venue
Grace & Jack | The Mayton Wedding
 

The Mayton Cary NC Wedding

On Feb. 8, 2025, Grace Burton and Jack Sinopoli said “I do” at The Mayton Cary NC wedding venue. This boutique hotel, formerly known as The Mayton Inn, is located within walking distance of downtown Cary shops and restaurants. This NC wedding venue is charming and convenient. It’s the best of both worlds for couples and their guests.

Hotel weddings are the GOAT. Not only does The Mayton feature a variety of romantic indoor and outdoor event spaces, but it also has cozy rooms and suites. This Cary NC hotel is a dream location for a stress-free wedding weekend. And, of course, we can't talk about The Mayton without mentioning Peck & Plume—the hotel’s on-site restaurant, known for its fine dining and Southern hospitality.

Keep scrolling to see more moments from Grace and Jack’s wedding at The Mayton in Cary, photographed by Nikki Whitt Belch.

On Feb. 8, 2025, Grace Burton and Jack Sinopoli said “I do” at The Mayton Cary NC wedding venue. Photographed by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography.

Timeless Winter Wedding at The Mayton

Grace and Jack’s wedding at The Mayton was a sweet celebration of love on a classic winter day in Cary, NC—clear, calm and pretty. This isn’t the first time Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, has photographed a wedding at this venue. In 2018, she captured Marina Galante and Dustin Harris’ October wedding at The Mayton. Over the years, the hotel has undergone major renovations, only increasing its appeal to couples and the community.

“The place just has good vibes,” says Nikki. “It's perfect for a smaller wedding. Everything is in one place.”

Nikki loves the Cary NC wedding venue’s clean lines, Art Deco-style curtains and furnishings. She used her Nikon Z6II camera to capture Grace and Jack’s wedding at The Mayton. Nikki documented their day with a smaller photography package—an option Fancy This Photography offers for couples seeking coverage for six hours or less. This package does not include a second shooter, which is no problem for intimate weddings.

Grace and Jack wanted to have a local wedding, so they chose to work with vendors based in NC. They love the charm of downtown Cary and The Mayton’s cozy accommodations.

“It’s charming and quaint and The Mayton is beautiful and was a convenient option for being able to stay there if people wanted,” says Grace.

Their winter wedding was coordinated by Events by Melanie NC, with floral arrangements by Cary Florist.

Real Reviews: Fancy This Photography

Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, came highly recommended to Grace—not once, but twice! A longtime friend who had booked Nikki for her own wedding first suggested her, and then Grace’s next-door neighbor, a NC wedding planner, also recommended her.

“We would recommend Nikki a million times over—she was wonderful to work with and had such a fun, easygoing personality. She got the job done efficiently and effortlessly, and we love our photos!” — Grace Sinopoli, 2025

“We would recommend Nikki a million times over—she was wonderful to work with and had such a fun, easygoing personality. She got the job done efficiently and effortlessly, and we love our photos!” — Grace Sinopoli, 2025

The Terrace at The Mayton Cary, NC wedding venue can accommodate approximately 125 guests. 

Grace & Jack’s Love Story: The Mayton Cary NC Wedding

Grace and Jack’s journey began with a Bumble match, but they soon realized they had countless mutual connections in the Raleigh-Cary area. They discovered they had grown up just five minutes apart. They even both attended North Carolina State University, and yet their paths had never crossed.

“It’s like we were living parallel lives for our entire lives until we met online in our 30s,” says Grace. 

Jack’s proposal was sweet and low-key. On Oct. 18, 2024, he made dinner reservations in downtown Raleigh. Before heading out, the couple was enjoying a drink at home when Jack, suddenly nervous, got down on one knee on the deck. Their golden retriever, Lucy, was the only witness.

Jack had one more surprise after dinner. He invited all their siblings and their significant others to join them for a celebratory engagement drink.

Not wanting a big wedding or a long engagement, the couple quickly booked The Mayton for a February 2025 wedding and jumped into planning. 

“Luckily, getting married in February—when it’s not peak wedding season—made planning easier, and vendors (and guests) were available,” says Grace.

Grace and Jack said “I do” on The Terrace at The Mayton Cary, NC wedding venue.

The Mayton Cary NC Wedding

Grace and Jack’s wedding weekend was intimate and special from start to finish. Guests were mostly made up of family members and very close friends. All the festivities took place in the couple’s shared hometown, and few guests had to travel far to attend.

The bride and groom both stayed with their parents in the homes they grew up in the night before The Mayton Cary NC wedding. Jack went to a golf simulator with his dad the morning of the wedding and Grace got ready at home with family and friends. The vibe was comfortable and relaxed. 

Grace and Jack held their ceremony on The Terrace at The Mayton Cary NC wedding venue. This open-air space has a retractable awning, built-in sound system and views of Downtown Cary Park. The brick-laid terrace can accommodate approximately 125 guests. 

Grace and Jack’s winter wedding was coordinated by Events by Melanie NC, with floral arrangements by Cary Florist. Photo by Nikki, Fancy This Photography.

Winter Wedding at The Mayton

“We loved our couples photos right after the ceremony,” says Grace. “It was our quiet time with just us two and Nikki and we really loved her and she made us feel comfortable - we even had fun doing that, which we didn’t expect.”

For the reception, Grace and Jack invited guests to The Park Room. This elegant indoor event space can host 64 seated, or 90 for cocktail style. When combined with Peck & Plume’s main dining room, The Park Room can host up to 140 guests. 

Everyone enjoyed a fabulous dinner catered by Peck & Plume and cake by Once In A Blue Moon Bakery. Nikki raved about the catering.

“They served me a delicious vendor meal! I don't remember what I had but I do remember feeling amazing afterwards and taken care of. Sometimes this is rare for a vendor meal. I did not try a cocktail, as I don't drink on the job.”

Reception highlights include sibling toasts and warming up the dance floor with music by AGB Productions. 

 When combined with Peck & Plume’s main dining room, The Park Room can host up to 140 guests.

We had to capture photos of Grace and Jack with Lucy, their 4-year-old golden retriever. The floral collar by Cary Florist was the perfect touch.

“We loved our couples photos right after the ceremony,” says Grace. “It was our quiet time with just us two and Nikki and we really loved her and she made us feel comfortable - we even had fun doing that, which we didn’t expect.”

Grace & Jack’s winter wedding at The Mayton was photographed by Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography.

Photography // Nikki Whitt Belch, Fancy This Photography

Venue // The Mayton

Caterer // Peck & Plume

Coordination // Events By Melanie

Flowers // Cary Florist

Cake // Once In A Blue Moon Bakery & Cafe

DJ // AGB Productions

Wedding Dress // Jenny Yoo

Bridal Makeup // Beauty with Alys

Bridal Hair // Studio Em

 
Emma and Nick's Wedding at the Upchurch historical wedding venue
 
Bride and Groom exiting church ceremony with confetti thrown by guests

Emma + Nick

Photographed by Sarah Martin

Discover the beauty and charm of the Upchurch Venue as we take a closer look at Emma and Nick's unforgettable wedding celebration. With stunning golden light and a fun, energetic wedding party, this day was filled with love, laughter, and joy. From the simple neutral green accents that added to the natural beauty of the venue to the unforgettable belly-dancing at the reception, every detail of this wedding was carefully planned and executed to create the perfect celebration of love.

The Beauty and Charm of the Upchurch Venue

The Upchurch Venue truly shines as the ideal location for a beautiful wedding, in any capacity you use it. Emma and Nick chose to use the venue for getting ready, stunning pictures and later an epic reception. They were married off the property at a church. Its enchanting environment and rustic charm make for a delightful experience that couples and their guests will cherish for years to come. Whether you're planning your own wedding or attending one, the Upchurch Venue is a place that promises to provide an unforgettable experience.,

A first look with dad

The beauty of having a first look with your dad is an indescribable moment of connection and emotion. As the time draws near for you to embark on a new chapter of your life, sharing this intimate moment with your father before the rest of the world sees you creates a profound bond.

You walk down the stairs, and there he is, the man who has been there for you through every joy and every tear. As your eyes meet, time seems to pause, and the world around you fades away. In that tender instant, a myriad of emotions course through your veins – love, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the countless sacrifices he has made.

Emma’s dad's eyes glisten with pride, his smile mirroring the immense joy that fills his heart. It is a moment where words are often unnecessary; the unspoken understanding between he and Emma spoke volumes. With a single glance, he reassured her, she was cherished, supported, and unconditionally loved.

Why not add a fun first look with your besties?

The Perfect Setting for some fun

Stunning scenery and accents further added to the natural beauty, making it an exceptional place for unforgettable weddings. Understanding the art of creating a memorable wedding requires the ideal setting and atmosphere. The Upchurch Venue offers that and more, creating a magical experience that will forever be etched in the hearts of every couple and guest in attendance.

The photos captured at this wedding are truly some of my favorite. First, trust us with the lighting because when it’s right it is SO right. And I could barely choose which photos to showcase because they are just all so beautiful. The fun energy from the couple and their bridal party made such a difference in capturing awesome photos. Have fun when you are taking photos, they truly will last a lifetime!

“Going to the Chapel, and we’re gonna get married!”

A Party Bus! Yes, Please!

What an incredible way to get your wedding party here and there on your wedding day if you have to move around! I would say some great and fun, lasting memories were had on this party bus!

Stunning Decor and Accents

Emma and Nick's wedding took it a notch higher with stunning decor and accents that complemented the natural beauty of the venue. From the charming table settings to the gorgeous flower arrangements, everything was meticulously selected to create a breathtaking ambiance.

The couple's choices reflected their unique style and personalities, with a perfect balance of rustic and elegant elements. The result was a beautiful celebration that felt organic, intimate, and genuinely reflective of the couple's love story. The stunning decor and accents were a testament to the power of marrying nature's beauty and human creativity.

A Celebration of Love

As the night went on, the festivities continued with delicious food, heartfelt speeches, and of course, plenty of dancing. From the first dance to the last, Emma and Nick's love was evident in every moment. The joy and excitement of the day were truly contagious, and guests couldn't help but feel caught up in the magic of it all.

And speaking of dancing, the next section will delve into the unforgettable belly dancing performance that became the highlight of the reception. But the true highlight of the performance was when the bride and friends joined in, showing off their moves to the cheering crowd. It was a moment that no one would forget, and it added a unique and unforgettable touch to the already beautiful wedding.

In the end, Emma and Nick's wedding at the Upchurch Venue was nothing short of magical. From the breathtaking scenery to the stunning decor and unforgettable moments, it was a celebration of love that will be cherished forever. If you're searching for the perfect location for your own special day, consider the Upchurch Venue. Its charm and beauty will make your wedding a truly unforgettable experience.


Photographer // Sarah, Fancy This Photography

Reception Venue // The Upchurch

Planner // Eddie McDaniel Events

Belly Dancer // Belly Dancing With Jackie

DJ // DJ Harlem

Florals // Blooms and Thorns Florals

Catering // Rocky Top Caters

 
Sarah with The Matthews House | A look into how photographers can help other business owners
 
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Sarah with the Matthews House

A look into a Cary, NC wedding venue and how photography plays a part in their venue

Photo by 627 Photography

N : How long have you been with The Matthews House? Tell me about the history of The Matthews House, how it started in the wedding industry, why did it become a venue?

S : We have owned the property for 2 years since this past December. Our family bought it as a joint venture. It was originally a private home, then it was a dress shop, then it was a florist, then a wedding venue. It is kind of funny that it all comes full circle to the wedding industry. We moved back to the area about 5 years ago and wanted to branch out into the market. My husband, Vincent, does the day to day work at The Matthews House and also does the graphics. I have an event planning background and assist with the events and weddings that take place here.

N : What are some key things about The Matthews House that separates it from the other wedding venues?

S : We have some prime things that separate our venue from the others. For starters, its in downtown Cary. Once youre at The Matthews House you actually feel a bit secluded via the gardens and the brick--it’s almost like a little oasis. We have great parking. We also provide easy options for guests. We have some vendors they could happily choose from, or we can give them the option to customize--it is completely up to the couple.

N : Do you work off a preferred vendor list? If so, why? If not, are there any vendors that are absolutely necessary from a venues standpoint--like catering, etc.?

S : The only preferred vendor we use is Southern Harvest as they are the ones that work out of the kitchen. However, you do not have to use them at all if you do not prefer. The only thing we require of guests to use them for would be for the bar service--which is great because they have all of the necessary permits to serve, etc. We include a day-of coordinator, Jeanette or Heather, but again, if you’d prefer to bring an outside vendor you are more than welcome to. For catering we do ask to approve of them in advance.

N : How often do you receive images from photographers who have photographed weddings at The Matthews House? Which images stand out more from a venues perspective? Which ones are you more likely to share or showcase on your website?

S : We only receive images from weddings about a third of the time. We mostly receive them because we have sent a follow up asking for images. We are always looking for photos that are unique; we want to see great emotion. Detail shots are always a great bonus, but we are more so interested in the full room shot so that our couples could see what they could do to the space. We have a clean slate ballroom, so the sky is the limit when it comes to making the space unique. We would love images that help give our clients ideas on how to make it their own.

N : What are some things that you wish more photographers did on a wedding day shooting wise?

S : I dont really have a suggestion on what to do on wedding day, per se. However, if there was a way to make the sharing of images easier, we would much prefer that. We are more likely to share if there was an easy an approachable way to do so. We would love to spread the word, but in order for us to do that we would need images of events and weddings from the photographer.

N : If you've never worked with a photographer before--do you suggest having them reach out to you? Do you ever suggest them to come by to take a look at the property? What makes for a good vendor relationship?

S : For starters, we are always available to reach out to. If someone has never shot here before, we would be more than happy to show them around the venue. This would help build a great vendor relationship, but also, ensure for a smooth day. It is our top priority to make sure our clients are taken care of, so if this means to have their photographer come by to take a look at lighting, etc., we would definitely accommodate that.

N : What is something that you wish more brides knew before booking certain vendors for their big day?

S : Typically the first thing a couple needs to book is the venue. I would then suggest to sit down and try to figure out the biggest priorities of the day. Is it the best food? Is it the best dance floor? Is it the best wedding photography? Whatever the case is, start looking at those vendors first. These will typically be a good portion of your budget, so I would do those closer to the beginning stages of booking your vendors.

N: Any advice for vendors who are looking to go into the wedding industry?

S : I think one of the best things you can do is network. You learn so much about everyones perspective come the wedding day. Always be open to communication. Communication is key to a solid wedding day.