Posts tagged durham wedding
Romantic Winter Wedding at Duke Chapel and The Rickhouse | Durham Wedding Photography
 

Durham, NC Wedding at Duke Chapel and The Rickhouse

If you’re considering Duke Chapel or The Rickhouse for your wedding, this post is a must-see. Kathleen and Dan’s celebration shows just how magical these iconic Durham locations can be. From the grand beauty of Duke Chapel for the ceremony to the cozy, industrial charm of The Rickhouse for the reception, you’ll see how these spaces come alive on a wedding day. This wedding was photographed by Courtney Collins.

Kathleen & Dan’s Timeless Durham Wedding at Duke Chapel and The Rickhouse

From their first look at The Durham Hotel to the grand celebration at The Rickhouse, Kathleen and Dan’s wedding day was packed with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Their journey began in the heart of Durham, where they first met, and it was so special to see them return to that place to celebrate the start of their marriage.

A Sweet First Look at The Durham Hotel

Kathleen and Dan chose The Durham Hotel for their first look—a spot that holds so many memories for them as it’s where their story first began. There’s something magical about seeing each other for the first time on your wedding day, and Courtney Collins captured every emotion of that sweet, quiet moment. The rooftop scene, with Durham spread out below, was the perfect backdrop as they held each other and took in the significance of the day ahead.

Bride and groom share a kiss in Alley 26, across from The Durham Hotel, during their Durham wedding photography session.

Wedding Party Fun at Duke Gardens

Before heading to the chapel, Kathleen and Dan spent time with their wedding party at Duke Gardens. The gardens provided a stunning natural setting that brought out the jewel tones of the bridesmaids' dresses—rich greens and blues that looked amazing in the winter light. Kathleen’s gown, with its lace detailing and classic elegance, was perfectly complemented by her lush bouquet from Tre Bella Inc., while Dan and his groomsmen looked timeless in their navy suits. These photos captured the joyful energy of the day, with smiles and laughter all around.

Groom stands with his groomsmen and groomswoman, all dressed in navy suits, posing together in Sarah P. Duke Gardens, Durham, North Carolina.

A Grand Ceremony at Duke Chapel

The wedding ceremony took place at the iconic Duke Chapel, where the architecture and stained glass added a truly awe-inspiring atmosphere. As Kathleen walked down the aisle, there was hardly a dry eye in the chapel. The love and anticipation in the room were palpable as she and Dan exchanged vows surrounded by their closest family and friends. It was a moment of pure joy and reverence, made even more beautiful by the timeless setting.

Father giving away his daughter at the altar during her wedding ceremony at Duke Chapel, with wedding party and groom watching warmly.
Bride and groom sharing a kiss while walking down the aisle of Duke Chapel, surrounded by cheering and clapping guests under the vibrant stained glass windows and gothic architecture.

A Reception to Remember at The Rickhouse

After the ceremony, everyone gathered at The Rickhouse for a reception that was equal parts elegant and lively. The industrial-chic space, with its exposed brick and high ceilings, was transformed into a cozy, intimate setting with the help of Get Lit Event Lighting NC. The tables were adorned with candlelight and greenery, creating a warm glow that made everything feel personal and inviting. Mediterranean Deli served up a fantastic dinner, and the atmosphere was one of pure celebration.

Kathleen and Dan’s first dance, with string lights twinkling above, was one of the highlights of the evening. There’s something so enchanting about that moment when two people come together on the dance floor, lost in each other’s eyes, while their friends and family cheer them on. And the fun didn’t stop there—DJ Choice kept the dance floor packed all night!

Heartfelt Touches and Special Details

Kathleen and Dan's wedding was full of thoughtful details that reflected their personalities. From the cozy, custom koozies that guests enjoyed to the heartfelt speeches that left everyone both laughing and wiping away tears, every part of the day was infused with warmth and meaning. Even the cake cutting was a sweet and playful moment that had everyone smiling.

A big shoutout to A Swanky Affair for coordinating every detail and making sure the day flowed seamlessly. And, of course, the incredible team of vendors, including rentals by American Party Rentals, who helped bring Kathleen and Dan’s vision to life.

Being part of this day was a true joy, and we’re so honored to have captured these moments for them. Congratulations, Kathleen and Dan! Here’s to a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and love.

 
Carly & Christian | The Rickhouse Durham
 

Wedding at The Rickhouse Durham NC

Fancy This Photography partner Sarah Martin fabulously documented Carly Speight and Christian Poveromo's wedding at The Rickhouse Durham NC on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023. Sarah used a Sony A7RIII and Sony A7III and was supported by Sarah Gillie as second shooter.

Carly and Christian’s wedding weekend embodied a classic Durham vibe while paying homage to their alma mater, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Festivities began with a welcome party at Bull McCabe’s Irish Pub in downtown Durham. The events were coordinated by local wedding planning company A Swanky Affair.

The bride and groom got ready at 21c Museum Hotel Durham. This historic gem is known for its ever-changing art exhibits and delicious fare at Counting House restaurant. Sarah snapped swaggy pictures of Carly and Christian getting ready with their closest loved ones in 21c’s mid-century modern hotel suites.

Duke Memorial United Methodist Church in downtown Durham set the tone for a stunning traditional wedding ceremony. The family dog, Louie, happily served as “Dog of Honor.” Reception celebrations continued at The Rickhouse, where friends and family toasted to the newlyweds.

Keep scrolling to see more fabulous images from Carly and Christian’s Wedding at The Rickhouse Durham NC!

Durham NC Wedding Captured by Fancy This Photography

Fancy This Photography partner Sarah Martin loved the thoughtful details in Carly and Christian’s wedding day. Bride Carly wore a beautiful getting-ready robe made from the fabric of her mother’s wedding dress—a heartfelt way to incorporate something old into her special day. Fancy This Photography prioritizes highlighting sentimental and traditional details in a couple's wedding photos.

Carly and her wedding party had their hair and makeup done by Wedded Kiss, an award-winning North Carolina-based beauty team known for excellence and kindness. Both wedding parties looked stunning for this black-tie optional wedding at The Rickhouse in Durham.

Wedding Ceremony Duke Memorial United Methodist

Carly and Christian shared their vows at Duke Memorial United Methodist church in downtown.

The church is naturally gorgeous and the perfect place for a ceremony. Fancy This Photography loves to take first look and portrait photos outside of the church. “They always look great,” says Sarah.

Wedding photographers must respect specific rules about where and what can be photographed for many ceremonies. At Duke Memorial United Methodist Church, wedding photographers must remain at the back of the church throughout the ceremony (either at the entrance doors, or on the upper balcony).

Fancy This Photography always observes and follows photography rules set by religious establishments. Sarah’s high-quality long camera lens let her capture stunning images of Carly and Christian’s ceremony from start to finish. Local musicians, Arioso Strings, played lovely live music throughout the wedding ceremony.

Wedding Decorations by North Carolina Artists

Floral arrangements by Tre Bella decorated both Duke Memorial United Methodist Church and The Rickhouse for Carly and Christian’s wedding. Tre Bella used timeless white and green blooms for the bridal bouquets and to adorn the event space entrances and tables. Fancy This Photography’s team has so much respect for fellow wedding vendors, artists, and creatives. We understand the passion, time, energy, and skill that go into every aspect of a wedding, including the decorations.

At the reception, guests were greeted by chalkboard art by MW Calligraphy at the entrance to The Rickhouse. If you look closely, you’ll spot Carly and Christian’s Dog of Honor, Louie, featured in the chalk mural.

Keep scrolling to see more of this gorgeous Durham wedding at The Rickhouse.

Wedding at The Rickhouse Durham NC 

With years of experience in North Carolina, Sarah Martin has photographed numerous weddings and events at The Rickhouse in downtown Durham. In addition to weddings, Sarah has captured a celebration of life and a Bar Mitzvah at The Rickhouse. She emphasizes the importance of mastering off-camera lighting at this unique local venue.

“The ceilings are very dark, and window light is only good for a two-hour span, so bouncing flash is limited,” Sarah explains. “I really enjoy the layout of this venue. The various setups I've seen are very diverse yet always highlight the main attraction, whether it's a raised stage or dance floor, the couple's head table, or a beautiful centerpiece floral design.”

One of Durham’s Favorite Event Venues

The Rickhouse is located at 609 Foster St., overlooking the famed Durham Athletic Park, the original home of the Durham Bulls. Couples are drawn to this wedding venue’s prime location in the Central Park district of downtown Durham, nestled between bars and coffee shops steeped in soul. Inside The Rickhouse, guests can watch Liberty and Plenty, a locally- and female-owned distillery, create gin, whiskey, rum, and vodka.

The Rickhouse can accommodate up to 300 guests for a seated reception and even more for cocktail-style events.

Dancing & Dessert

Carly and Christian invited friends and family to the dance floor for a night of entertainment by Irresistible Groove after sharing dinner and toasts. With over a decade of success, Irresistible Groove has become one of the most sought-after live wedding bands in North Carolina. Featuring a horn section, six vocalists, a full rhythm section, and a massive, diverse song list, it’s easy to understand why.

For dessert, guests enjoyed a delicious wedding cake by Donovan's Dish. Based in Raleigh, Donovan's Dish serves the Triangle area and beyond.

Fancy This Photography would be stoked to document your upcoming wedding or event at The Rickhouse in Durham NC. For more inspiration, check out these classic real Durham weddings! 

Photography // Fancy This Photography

Coordinator // A Swanky Affair

Getting Ready Venue // 21c Museum Hotel Durham 

Ceremony Venue // Duke Memorial UMC 

Reception Venue // The Rickhouse Durham

Caterer and Desserts // Donovan's Dish

Florist // Tre Bella

Ceremony Music // Arioso Strings

Reception Music // Irresistible Groove

Lighting and Draping // Get Lit Event Lighting 

Rentals // American Party Rentals

Hair and Makeup // Wedded Kiss

Chalkboard Art // MW Calligraphy

 
Becca & Brad | 21c Museum Hotel Durham
 

21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding

Rebecca Lehrman and Bradford Dubik’s 21c Museum Hotel Durham wedding was a beautiful fever dream. Fancy This Photography was honored to capture all of their wedding festivities – from first looks to first dances – on April 23, 2022. Heather Bonawitz Kids of Paisley and Pearl Events planned Becca and Brad’s downtown Durham wedding. Paisley and Pearl Events is a Durham-based wedding planning company that helps couples produce stress-free events. Fancy This Photography loves collaborating with local event professionals to give couples top-tier wedding experiences!

I recommend selecting a wedding venue that is relatively close to an airport, especially if guests must travel long distances to attend your wedding. Becca and Brad’s friends and family flew into Raleigh-Durham International Airport from near and far to celebrate their love. Located in the heart of downtown Durham, 21c Museum Hotel is a quick 20-minute drive away from RDU airport. Guests can conveniently stay the night at the hotel after the wedding, or at any of the quality hotels in downtown Durham.

Ceremony Main Gallery 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

Couples can host weddings for up to 250 guests in the Main Gallery at 21c Museum Hotel Durham.

Wedding Jewelry Details 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

Wedding Traditions Honored at 21c Museum Hotel Durham

Becca and Brad shared some of the sweetest wedding vows Fancy This Photography has ever witnessed. They committed themselves to one another beneath a colorful chuppah designed by Blossom and Bone Florals in Durham. A chuppah is a canopy beneath which Jewish marriage ceremonies are performed. Becca and Brad also stood upon a embroidered rushynk during their 21c Museum Hotel Durham wedding ceremony. The rushynk is a traditional Ukrainian wedding cloth that symbolizes purity, fertility, and hope for the couple's future.

The reception was equally as meaningful and heartfelt as the ceremony. Toasts shared at this 21c Museum Hotel Durham wedding reception are some of the best Fancy This Photography has ever heard. It is an honor to be a part of such special celebrations. Congratulations, Becca and Brad!

Keep scrolling for more gorgeous images and information about this unique downtown Durham wedding venue.

Bride Getting Ready Silhouette 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography
Groom Getting Ready at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

Downtown Durham WeddinG Style

Becca and her besties got ready in one of the luxury art deco rooms at 21c Museum Hotel Durham. ERMC Hair Stylist did the bridal party’s hair, and makeup was done by Artistry by Angela. I loved the unique mismatched green dresses worn by each bridesmaid. Becca’s wedding dress was contemporary and stunning with clean lines and a square neckline. Brad looked dapper in a gray suit and blue tie. His groomsmen donned dark green suits and handsome hats.

Fancy This Photography had a blast photographing the entire wedding party around downtown Durham. That’s the beauty of getting married at 21c Museum Hotel Durham! It’s close to awesome downtown Durham landmarks and makes wedding portraits more fun. Becca and Brad shared their first look in front of a colorful mural of Frida Kahlo titled I Am My Own Muse by Cecilia Lueza (2019). And of course, we had to stop at CCB plaza for portraits with the city’s mascot statue, Major the bronze bull. Lastly, we made our way to the top of a nearby parking garage for group and individual portraits in front of an iconic Durham skyline.

First Look Mural Frida Kahlo at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

Becca and Brad shared their first look in front of a colorful mural of Frida Kahlo titled I Am My Own Muse by Cecilia Lueza (2019).

Black and White Fine Art Image at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography
Groom and Groomsmen Downtown Skyline at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

Wedding photos in front of this iconic Downtown Durham skyline are essential.

Green Wedding Party Downtown Durham Skyline 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

Planning a 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding

Locals and tourists alike love visiting 21c Museum Hotel Durham for its fine dining, art and culture, events and one-of-a-kind overnight stays. Fancy This Photography’s team often explores 21c’s exhibits just for fun! This is honestly one of the best wedding venues in Durham. First, let’s talk about the hotel’s style and event spaces.

21c Museum Hotel Durham has a variety of event spaces that feature modern amenities without compromising the building’s art deco style. The museum hotel lives and breathes in the bones of the historic Hill Building aka CCB Building, built in 1937. Durham Bank & Trust Company—as well as its successor, the Central Carolina Bank— operated from this 17-story building on Corcoran Street for several decades.

Most ceremonies and receptions at 21c Museum Hotel Durham take place in its Main Gallery. This was true of Becca and Brad’s wedding! After their ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour in an art exhibit while the Main Gallery was flipped into a reception space. The Main Gallery features wooden paneled walls and columns, tall ceilings and windows, and modern chandeliers. Couples can host weddings for up to 250 guests here.

Ceremony Design Main Gallery 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

The Main Gallery at 21c Museum Hotel Durham features wooden paneled walls and columns, tall ceilings and windows, and modern chandeliers.

Parents Walk Bride Down Aisle at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography
Jewish Wedding Ceremony Tradition 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography
Bride Celebrates Wedding Ceremony 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

Quick FAQs About 21c Museum Hotel Durham

  • Located in the heart of Downtown Durham - close to resstaurants, bars, entertainment

  • 125 spacious guest rooms with large windows and custom furnishings

  • More than 10,500 square feet of exhibition space

  • Counting House restaurant bar and lounge

  • In-room dining and catering provided by Counting House

  • Spa, sauna, and steam room

  • 24-hour fitness center

  • Business center

  • Laundry service

  • 21c Museum Shop

  • 24-hour valet service

  • Pet-friendly rooms

  • Designed by Deborah Berke Partners

  • Free Wi-Fi

Romantic Image Bride and Groom Elevator at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

Counting House at 21c Museum Hotel Durham

21c Museum Hotel Durham couples get access to their on-site restaurant, Counting House. This top-tier culinary team can prepare custom wedding menus that wow your guests. Fancy This Photography even snapped a few photos of Becca and Brad sitting in the Counting House’s cool restaurant bar and lounge.

Art Exhibit Bride and Groom Portrait at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography
Bride Groom and Family at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography

21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Details

Becca and Brad said “I do” in the Main Gallery of 21c Museum Hotel Durham. Colorful florals designed by Durham-based Blossom and Bone Florals gave the space a warm and welcoming vibe. Becca’s bright bouquet popped brilliantly against her white wedding dress. The chuppah flowers were jaw-dropping. Look closely, each column in the event space was wrapped in flower arrangements that looked to be growing upward!

For cocktail hour, guests were invited to explore an art exhibit with drinks and appetizers. Meanwhile, the Main Gallery was transformed from ceremony to reception space. Ceremony chairs were replaced by round tables and the chuppah became a backdrop for the newlywed’s sweetheart table. I love that Becca and Brad did not shy away from color in their wedding decor. Each table centerpiece was so vibrant and photo worthy!

Becca and Brad danced the night away to music by DJ Play Play. The rushynk even made a guest-star appearance during some traditional Ukrainian wedding dances! Fancy This Photography is so thankful to have been a part of this special day. To learn more about how we can capture your wedding day, click here.

Bride and Groom Outfit Change at 21c Museum Hotel Durham Wedding Fancy This Photography