Unique Raleigh Wedding Venue Options You Should Consider

No two weddings are the same. That said, if you’re saying “I do” in the Triangle of North Carolina, it’s likely that we have photographed your venue(s) before. In 2022, over 7,000 weddings were held in the City of Oaks. There are approximately 80 wedding venue options in and around Raleigh. For this reason, we are excited to share two unique Raleigh wedding venue options with you on our blog. 

Elisa Christopher and Joseph Hurd held their fall wedding ceremony at All Saints Chapel - a vintage Episcopal chapel in downtown Raleigh’s historic Oakwood neighborhood. All Saints Chapel features heart pine wood beams and 19th-century stained glass windows.‍ After the ceremony, Elisa and Joe’s loved ones were whisked to Whitaker & Atlantic for a fabulous wedding reception. Unlike All Saints Chapel, Whitaker & Atlantic is a more modern event space with contemporary lighting and decor. This unique Raleigh wedding venue can host 150 seated guests or 300 standing. In contrast, All Saints Chapel can seat up to 200 guests for a ceremony and only 120 for a seated dinner. It is not unusual for Raleigh couples to host their ceremony at All Saints Chapel and reception at an alternate wedding venue with a bit more wiggle room. All Saints Chapel and Whitaker & Atlantic are only an 8-minute drive apart and pair perfectly for a North Carolina wedding extravaganza. 

Elisa and Joe’s wedding weekend went off without a hitch thanks to Premier Party Planners. Raleigh-based Premier Party Planners is a full-service wedding and event planning boutique that serves the Triangle area and beyond. Their philosophy is simple: couples should feel like a guest at their own wedding. Fancy This Photography couldn’t agree more! This is why we (your wedding vendor team) spend hours preparing for your event by analyzing timeline details, ceremony and reception locations, and more. Nikki used a Nikon D750 and D850 with support from second shooter Sarah Gillie to capture Elisa and Joe’s special day. Keep scrolling to see more images from this beautiful Raleigh wedding.  

Built in 1875, consider All Saints Chapel one of the most unique Raleigh wedding venue options.

Raleigh wedding hair and makeup by Hello Pretty You and The Pretty Barrette.

Unique Raleigh Wedding Venue Options: All Saints Chapel 

All Saints Chapel is an architectural wonder that has witnessed weddings for over 145 years. There are many reasons why this is one of Fancy This Photography’s favorite unique Raleigh wedding venue options. Sandwiched between live oak trees and wrought iron fences, All Saints Chapel’s iconic entrance is just a taste of the beauty that awaits inside. 

Architecture is everything. First, let us praise the venue’s symmetry and shapes. Curved archways and exposed wooden beams create picturesque frames for wedding day portraits. Natural light filtering through 19th century stained glass windows creates a magical ambiance. Fancy This Photography delights in capturing the light as it casts rainbows upon the betrothed and their loved ones. All Saints Chapel rental includes on-site getting ready suites, a sound system with wireless mics, and parking. 

Elisa and Joe hired Durham-based flower shop Tre Bella to adorn the chapel with ceremonial blooms. Candles encased in glass lanterns and loose greenery decorated each side of the aisle. At the altar, Tre Bella placed two ornate vessels filled with white and green florals on both sides of a magnificent mantel. The classic wedding flowers and decor complimented All Saints Chapel’s natural beauty.

Autumn Brand, member of The One Eighties band, played live violin music as Elisa was escorted down the aisle. The entire wedding ceremony scene dripped with romance. Keep scrolling as we move from All Saints Chapel to Whitaker & Atlantic, another unique Raleigh wedding venue to consider.

These beautiful wedding bouquets were created by Tre Bella in Durham, North Carolina.

“I love the quaintness and color inside All Saints Chapel,” Nikki says. “It is romantic and gives off an old time love feeling.”

Unique Raleigh Wedding Venue Options You Should Consider: Whitaker & Atlantic

If you have ever grabbed drinks at Lynnwood Brewing Concern or sandwiches at Wilson’s Eatery, you were in close proximity to one of Raleigh’s best wedding venues. Whitaker & Atlantic is a local gem hiding in plain sight within Dock 1053. High ceilings, concrete floors, and modern light fixtures are just a few features that attract couples to this warehouse event space. 

Whitaker & Atlantic can seat up to 150 or 300 standing. Elisa and Joe hosted cocktail hour on the venue’s extensive outdoor patio and saved the indoor space for dinner, dessert, and dancing. The covered, open-air patio is spacious and sparkles beneath bistro string lights.

Couples who get married at Whitaker & Atlantic also have the option to work with in-house caterer PoshNosh. Scrumptious cocktail hour appetizers by PoshNosh set the tone for an exquisite evening. 

Fancy This Photography’s Favorite Wedding Moment

One of Nikki’s favorite moments from Elisa and Joe’s wedding happened before the newlyweds joined the reception. Above Whitaker & Atlantic’s grand room is a private suite used for wardrobe changes and quiet moments. The suite’s vibrant pink couch and retro gold decor make it a can’t-miss photo opportunity.  

“I loved photographing Elisa and Joe on that pink couch at Whitaker & Atlantic,” Nikki says. “They were so at ease with one another, joking and having fun. The playfulness came out in them, because the hard part was done. This was just a sweet time to witness.” 

Rad Reception at Whitaker & Atlantic Raleigh Wedding Venue 

Elisa and Joe’s wedding reception at Whitaker & Atlantic was warm, bright, and full of joy. A head table anchored the room with candles and an asymmetrical floral backdrop by Tre Bella. Timeless linens and party rentals from Party Reflections decorated each table. Mid-century modern chairs with warm wood finishes were the cherry on top of this wedding reception design. 

“Whitaker & Atlantic is dark inside, but that is where the magic of light comes in,” Nikki says. “I love the exposed brick and rolling garage doors.”

Photos in Motion 

You need to know that a photographer can take high-quality photos of people in motion when selecting the person to capture your wedding. Dances, toasts, and cake cutting are just a few of the action-packed moments you’ll want to remember forever in film. Request to see a full real wedding gallery from a photographer before booking. That way, you can see how the photographer captures people in motion from walking down the aisle to sparkler exits.

Cake // Once in a Blue Moon Bakery

DJ // Just Drew

Want to see more Fancy This Photography real wedding galleries at All Saints Chapel and Whitaker & Atlantic? Click on the links below. 

Zach Durham and Jessie Nash’s All Saints Chapel Wedding 

Chenoa Hill and Ricky Saltzer’s Whitaker & Atlantic Wedding

Photographer //  Fancy This Photography
Ceremony // All Saints Chapel 
Reception // Whitaker & Atlantic 
Planning // Premier Party Planners
Violinist // Autumn Rose Brand
Catering // PoshNosh Raleigh
Beauty // Hello Pretty You & The Pretty Barrette 
Flowers // Tre Bella
DJ // Just Drew
Cake // Once in a Blue Moon Bakery
Party Rentals // Party Reflections

Anna + Kyle’s Winter Elopement at the Hillsborough, NC Courthouse

Photographed by Courtney

Winter in Orange County, NC is a magical time, with crisp air and breathtaking views, but still mild enough for a beautiful celebration. It’s the perfect season for a romantic and intimate courthouse wedding, even if you take it outside for a short ceremony like Anna and Kyle chose to do. Not only is it cost-effective and stress-free, but it can also be a unique and memorable experience for you, your partner and close loved ones. From personal touches to what to wear, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to create a beautiful and unforgettable experience. So, whether you’re looking for a low-key ceremony or a more elaborate event, say ‘I do’ to a winter courthouse wedding and start planning your special day today.

Holding Family Close

The thing about a wedding with just those closest to you means you have time to really get those candid memories captured. A couple choosing to elope with only a few of their closest family and friends, is a couple that cares so deeply about what this day signifies. The people they hold closest to Anna and Kyle are their biggest fans, their every day cheerleaders, the people that will continue to surround them with love and support through this marriage, all the days ahead.

Why Have a Courthouse Wedding

For couples who are looking for a more low-key ceremony, the courthouse elopement option can be a perfect fit. Winter is an especially good time to consider a courthouse wedding, as it can add a cozy atmosphere and a touch of magic to your special day. In addition, a courthouse wedding can be a great option for those who value simplicity and want to focus on the true meaning of their marriage. The specific courthouse Anna and Kyle were married at is located in Hillsborough, NC. The Orange County Courthouse is a beautifully quaint location.

Winter weddings also lend themselves to a cozy atmosphere that can be hard to replicate in other seasons. The chill in the air and the possibility of snow can make your wedding photographs look like something out of a fairytale. Additionally, the lack of crowds during the winter months means that you'll have a quieter, more intimate experience with your loved one.

Another significant benefit of a courthouse wedding is its simplicity. It allows you to focus on the meaning of your marriage without the distractions of a big wedding. A courthouse wedding can be a meaningful and beautiful way to start your life together.

What does a ceremony at the courthouse look like?

To make the most of your courthouse wedding, it's important to plan ahead and think about the details that will make your day special. First, consider the timing of your ceremony - courthouse weddings are generally shorter than traditional weddings, so plan accordingly. Anna and Kyle invited only the people closest to them so everything moved very quickly, but also allowed for the most epic captures.

Next, think about the attire. While a courthouse wedding is less formal than a traditional ceremony, it is such an amazing opportunity to showcase your unique style. More on that later, because this couple knocked out the styling out of the park with their attire.

When it comes to the ceremony itself, consider adding personal touches that reflect your personalities and values. You can write your own vows, choose readings that are meaningful to you, or incorporate a special song into the ceremony. Anna and Kyle actually chose to take their ceremony outside, check with your local courthouse if this is an option or maybe you just sign the documents inside and have your own personal and intimate ceremony outside!

By taking the time to plan and think about the details, you can make your courthouse wedding a truly memorable and special day. In the next section, we'll go over some creative ideas for adding personal touches to your winter courthouse wedding.

What to Wear for a Winter Courthouse Wedding

As you prepare for your winter courthouse wedding in Orange County, NC, you might be wondering what to wear to your special day. The good news is that you can still look stylish and elegant while staying warm during the colder months. Just wait for these details, drooling. But here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect outfit for your winter courthouse wedding.

First and foremost, think about the weather. If you're getting married in the colder months, you'll want to choose fabrics that will keep you warm. Consider a dress with long sleeves or a jacket to keep you cozy. You can also opt for a faux fur stole or wrap for added warmth. Anna chose a stunning, yet simple coat for the most beautiful monochromatic look for her wedding day. This look was perfectly paired with her grooms warm toned suit and touches.

Next, consider the overall vibe of your wedding. If you're going for a more casual look, you can choose a simple dress or a pantsuit. For a more formal affair, you might opt for a full-length gown or a tailored suit. Regardless of your choice, make sure it reflects your personal style and makes you feel confident and beautiful. I absolutely loved that Anna chose a short and fitted dress but still kept a more traditional short veil to pair and finish her look.

Finally, remember that your wedding day is about celebrating your love and commitment to each other. Your outfit should be a reflection of that love and joy. As you choose your wedding attire, keep in mind that the most important thing is to feel comfortable and happy in your own skin. These two definitely killed their wedding day looks and glided through their day comfortably and stylishly.

Don’t forget to sneak away

Just because it’s a low stress day and you truly get to spend it with your favorite people. Sneak Away. Just do it. Have time as a newly married couple, just the two of you to capture some shots of that new feeling of new beginnings, you won’t regret it.

Making Memories That Will Last a Lifetime

Your winter courthouse wedding is a special day that you'll cherish forever. To make sure every moment is unforgettable, take the time to plan out ways you can capture those precious memories.

Of course we at Fancy This Photography will always suggest hiring a professional photographer to document your day. They can take photos of the ceremony, your first kiss as a married couple, and candid shots of you and your partner celebrating together. You'll have these photos to look back on for years to come. Sometimes it is so easy to forget the details and capturing details in the most beautiful way is our favorite.

Another way to make memories that will last a lifetime is to customize your wedding. You can add personal touches to every aspect of your special day, where will you enjoy your special day after the ceremony or signing of papers? If you are in the Hillsborough area The Wooden Nickel is such a cool and rustic find. Great drinks and food to share with your most loved people.

“People always wonder if they’ll miss out on a large wedding, but being surrounded by the people you love and care about the most makes it all worth it.” - Courtney (Photographer : Fancy This Photography)

Wedded Kiss's Brand Transformation: Professional Branding Inspiration for the Wedding Planning Industry

Professional branding can help any small business stand out from the competition and attract their ideal clients. See how Wedded Kiss elevated their business with a vibrant jewel tone palette and bold aesthetic, and discover how you can do the same. Plus, check out their stunning outfit choices for inspiration.

Photographed by Nikki

Wedded Kiss: A Colorful Makeover You Won't Want to Miss

Are you ready to be swept off your feet by a colorful rebranding story? Wedded Kiss, a wedding planning company, recently underwent a transformation that breathed new life into their business. With vibrant jewel tones, they're shaking up the industry, and we're excited to share their story with you. In this blog, we'll showcase their bold and beautiful makeup looks, and take you through the benefits of investing in professional branding. Additionally, with June being PRIDE month, what better way to honor this occasion than with a rainbow-colored branding shoot? From the story behind their rebranding to the impact it's had on their business, get ready to be inspired by Wedded Kiss's journey.

From Blush to Bold: Wedded Kiss's Branding Transformation

Wedded Kiss's rebranding story is not only inspiring for the makeup and wedding planning industry, but it also showcases the importance of investing in professional branding. From Blush to Bold: Wedded Kiss's Branding Transformation highlights the details behind their rebranding and the impact it's had on their business. Their vibrant jewel tones and bold aesthetic not only make a statement but also attract their ideal clients.

They decided to rebrand and invest in professional branding services to elevate their visual identity. The result was a colorful and lively brand that truly reflected their style and services.

The new branding also allowed Wedded Kiss to stand out from the competition and attract their ideal clients. The investment in professional branding has paid off, and Wedded Kiss is now on a path to success.

Their bold and beautiful branding is not only visually stunning, but also a celebration of diversity and inclusion. As June is PRIDE month, Wedded Kiss's rainbow-colored branding shoot is a perfect way to honor and embrace the LGBTQ+ community. Their branding transformation is a testament to the power of visual storytelling and the impact it can have on a business's success.

The Jewel Tone Outfit Looks You Have to See

Wedded Kiss's colorful rebranding shoot is not only a celebration of diversity and inclusion, but also a showcase of the power of jewel tones. From emerald green to amethyst purple, their branding transformation has inspired some stunning outfit ideas that perfectly complement their bold and beautiful color scheme.

The possibilities are truly endless, and Wedded Kiss's rebranding shoot proves that jewel tones are a versatile and eye-catching choice for any occasion. Investing in professional branding, like Wedded Kiss did, can help your business stand out and attract your ideal clients. Plus, it can inspire some seriously stunning outfit choices.

Investing in Professional Branding: A Smart Move for Small Businesses

One of the most important aspects of running a small business is standing out in a crowded market. With countless competitors trying to grab the attention of the same audience, it can be difficult to make a lasting impression. That's why investing in professional branding is a smart move for any small business owner.

By working with a branding expert, you can define your unique value proposition, hone your messaging, and develop a visual identity that sets you apart from the competition. A cohesive brand identity not only helps you attract your ideal clients, but it also builds trust and credibility with your target audience.

Wedded Kiss's recent rebranding shoot is a perfect example of how professional branding can elevate a business's image. Their use of jewel tones in their branding is not only visually stunning, but also helps them stand out in the wedding planning industry. By investing in professional branding, they have set themselves apart and attracted their ideal clients.

Plus, professional branding can inspire some seriously stunning outfit choices like those showcased in Wedded Kiss's shoot. This shoot proves that investing in professional branding is a worthwhile investment for any small business.

June is PRIDE Month and Better Way to Honor it than this Rainbow Colored Branding Shoot

As we celebrate Pride Month, Wedded Kiss's rebranding shoot is a perfect example of how to incorporate diversity, inclusivity, and vibrancy into your branding. With a rainbow of colors and a focus on love and celebration, this shoot not only showcases Wedded Kiss's brand identity, but also honors the LGBTQ+ community. By incorporating these values into their branding, Wedded Kiss is attracting clients who share their commitment to diversity and celebration.

As small business owners, it's important to honor the communities that we serve. By showcasing inclusivity and diversity in our branding, we not only attract clients who share those values, but we also create a space where everyone feels welcome and celebrated. Wedded Kiss's branding shoot is a beautiful example of how to do just that. The branding shoot is not only visually stunning but also a beautiful representation of the values that Wedded Kiss stands for. It's a reminder to all of us in the industry to strive for inclusivity and diversity in our branding and to make a conscious effort to create a space that celebrates everyone.

Wedded Kiss's recent rebranding is a testament to the power of professional branding. The transformation from a subtle blush palette to bold jewel tones has completely reinvented their business, setting them apart in a competitive industry. From the eye-catching makeup looks to the stunning outfits, this shoot is a true visual feast that honors the spirit of Pride Month. If you're a small business looking to make a statement, look no further than Wedded Kiss's colorful makeover for inspiration. As the saying goes, "a picture is worth a thousand words," and the impact of high-quality photography and unique branding cannot be overstated. Take a cue from Wedded Kiss and make a bold statement through your branding.