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.

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.

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.

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.

**As seen on the blog of Southern Bride and Groom! **

Okay—honesty time. I fall in love with my couples. I know. Super weird, but, I do. I first met Brooke and Teddy last year for their engagement session in downtown Durham. You may remember their session as it featured some really fun images of those two at Ponysaurus (their first date spot). So, of course, these two made my favorites list because they were great from the beginning.

Their wedding, though? Oh, it was just as beautiful as these two. The ceremony and reception took place at one of my all time favorite venues — The Rickhouse. Get Lit Special Event Lighting completely transformed the place by placing these beautiful white drapes at the altar site; it, honestly, felt a bit magical. Just wait until you see the ceremony site! It even dubbed as a beautiful backdrop of the head table at the reception!

The day started out dreary. The weather stated it was supposed to rain ALL DAY. Which, in the beginning, it did. However, right before Brooke and Teddy’s first look the sky opened and it was sunny until night. It was really a pretty site to see.

Brooke and Teddy did their first look on the patio of the Rickhouse overlooking the old Durham Ball Park. This may have been my most favorite part of the day only because I could see the sheer excitement in these two seeing eachother for the first time. They exchanged cards that they had written to eachother over the past couple of years they had been together, and—it was just the sweetest. They were completely smitten with one another.

After all of the jitters had passed, guests started to arrive and sit for the ceremony. Not only did Brooke’s parents walk her down the aisle—but, her father was the actual Minister who married the two of them at the altar. The colors of blush and grey looked almost mesmerizing, but how Teddy looked at Brooke had to have been the best part.

To be honest, I have had a hard time picking out favorites for this blog post as I am loving their entire gallery. Brooke and Teddy—Congratulations! Thank you for your kindness!

Special thanks to all of the vendors who made this possible!
Venue // The Rickhouse
Hair and Makeup // Makeup by Ashley Mooney
Catering // Picnic
Wedding Flowers // Tre Bella
Gown // Tre Bella
Coordination // Blissful Celebrations
Music // Spin
Draping and LIghting // Get Lit Special Event Lighting
Videography // Three Thirty Six Films
Chalkboard // Hint of Mint Designs
Cake Pops // Raleigh Cake Pops

It is with great pleasure to share with you this wedding. I have had the privilege of getting to know not only both Stacy and Alex, but their families, as well. Being able to collaborate and dream with them has been one of the best perks about this wedding, and it was just an all around good time. Stacy and Alex tied the knot on New Years Eve and threw a massive party for all of their guests to enjoy. Guests flew and drove from all over the country for this, and that just tells me that these two were extremely loved from the beginning.

Stacy and Alex met while working in DC. From what I heard via the reception speeches, this came out of the blue and there were sparks of instant attraction. Stacy and Alex moved back to this area shortly before their wedding— Alex is originally from the triangle, and Stacy is from Florida. I quite enjoyed getting to know them a bit more and where they were from. Surprisingly, Alex grew up literally right down the street from my husband in Carrboro. I found out Stacy had an adorning love for all things agriculture, which you all know is my sweet spot. She stole my heart, too.

Stacy and her bridesmaids got dressed and ready at the quirky hotel 21c in downtown Durham. They started the day out here drinking mimosas and having hair and makeup done by Bella Trio. Right across the square, Alex and his groomsmen were getting ready at the Marriott Hotel. This was perfect because later for their first look all they had to do was walk outside and meet in the middle of the square.

We ended up doing their first look photos right in front of Pour which was great because of the fun twinkle lights that surrounded the small trees in front. Take a look at some of those images because they may be some of my all time favorites. I love the ones that Samantha took of the full group (bridesmaids and groomsmen). Seriously, they make me smile some kinda big when I look at them.

The ceremony took place at the beautiful Asbury United Methodist Church and they were married by Pastor Wes Neal. I enjoyed the ceremony and the ambiance of the church, but the best part was being able to see Alex’s face when Stacy and her dad walked down the aisle to him. It’s the little things that get me, and this is just the best part of the whole day. This one part. Yall, the little moments matter. It was a site to see, especially with all of the couples bridal party standing right next to them in this packed full of guests church. All of their friends and family in one place to witness.

The reception took place at one of my favorite Durham venues (not even kidding!)— The Rickhouse! This night could not get any better, but it did. The spirit of all of the guests made this night one to remember. The food, the dancing, the laughter—it was just the place to be for New Years. I loved the small details meant for guests, like flip flops for dancing on the dance floor, or even beaded necklaces and fun glasses to indulge in for the big NYE ball drop. I don’t know what was the best thing about the reception—all of these little things or the fact that they had late night snacks come out when the party needed it.

Obviously, this was our last wedding of the year—and we went out with a bang! I so enjoyed getting to know these two and being a part of their celebration. I do meet some incredible couples, but mine have to be some of the best people around. Stacy and Alex, congratulations on your marriage! I wish you so many years of love and happiness—you two deserve it!

Special thanks to all of these vendors!
Hotel and Accommodations 21c Museum Hotel & Marriott
Hair and Makeup Bella Trio Salon
Bridal Gown Coastal Knot
Florals Fallon’s Flowers
Ceremony Asbury United Methodist Church
Transportation Carolina Livery Transportation
Rentals American Party Rentals
Catering Southern Harvest
Reception Venue The Rickhouse
DJ Vox DJ
Photography Fancy This Photography