Haven Farm Wedding Venue in Knightdale NC

Amanda Law, partner photographer of Fancy This Photography, captured this styled wedding at Haven Farm wedding venue in Knightdale NC, on May 20, 2024. The photo shoot was directed by Heart of NC Weddings Editorial Shoot Creative Director Plume Events for publication in the magazine’s 2025 issue. Model Leanna Norris flawlessly worked every angle while five professional North Carolina wedding photographers snapped frame after frame. This collaborative shoot—designed as an educational exercise rather than a competition—highlighted the variety of wedding photography styles available.

Heart of NC Weddings described Amanda’s images of Haven Farm as “true-to-life photography,” with colors that appear authentic or slightly more vibrant. We couldn’t agree more. For this photo shoot, Amanda used a Sony A7 III and a Sony A7 IV. Her artistic eye and natural approach beautifully documented the bride in custom gowns by Be Everthine, complemented by peachy wedding florals from Heritage Flowers.

Haven Farm: More Than a Beautiful Barn Wedding Venue

The natural beauty of Haven Farm is boosted by the modern architecture of its event barn and open-air pavilion. Couples who marry here enjoy 40 acres of private, peaceful North Carolina countryside on their big day. More than just another pretty barn wedding venue, Haven Farm operates by the philosophy “Grow Well. Give Well. Live Well.” Located less than 30 minutes from downtown Raleigh, it’s a destination where people gather over coffee or celebrate life’s milestones.

If you’re a couple who loves nature and the outdoors, Haven Farm wedding venue is the perfect setting for your special day. Say “I do” in the dreamy meadows before raising a glass with loved ones in the modern barn. This nature-inspired venue welcomes all, from grand weddings to intimate wellness retreats.

Keep scrolling to see more stunning images by Amanda Law, partner photographer of Fancy This Photography, and learn more about Haven Farm wedding venue in Knightdale NC.

Haven Farm wedding venue can accommodate up to 200 guests for a plated dinner. Image by Amanda Law, partner photographer of Fancy This Photography.

Styled Shoot at Haven Farm Wedding Venue

This was Amanda’s first time photographing at Haven Farm wedding venue in Knightdale NC. Here’s what she had to say about the venue:

“I loved the brightness and openness of the barn,” recalls Amanda. “It has big sliding glass doors that let in lots of light and can be completely opened to make the space feel really connected to the grounds. The barn is also surrounded by beautiful woods that give a completely different look to the space and give us as photographers a lot of versatility. Also there is an incredible, manicured, little line of trees next to the barn that is just perfect for portraits or a first look. We shot bridal portraits there and it was stunning.”

Amanda says styled shoots are valuable for photographers and vendors because they offer an opportunity to experiment and be creative in ways they might not be able to on a real wedding day.

If a vendor wants to showcase work in a new style they haven’t had the chance to market yet, or a photographer wants to try a new technique or attract clients who see themselves reflected in their work, a styled shoot provides that opportunity. It’s also a great way to build connections with other wedding vendors by exchanging services and collaborating on something creative that benefits everyone.

Model Leanna Norris looked beautiful in custom wedding dresses and veils by Be Everthine. Image by Amanda Law, partner photographer of Fancy This Photography.

Learn More: Haven Farm Wedding Venue

Haven Farm is an all-inclusive barn wedding venue offering both indoor and outdoor event spaces. The massive, white-washed barn features vaulted ceilings and exposed wood beams. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light. A striking chandelier, made from the wood of a tree that once grew on the property, hangs at the center of the barn’s vaulted ceiling. The chandelier adds a warm, country-chic touch to the expansive space. Beyond the climate-controlled barn, Haven Farm wedding venue includes an open-air pavilion, orchard gardens, and picturesque pastures. Weather permitting, the outdoor fire pit is a guest favorite, perfect for toasting s’mores or smoking cigars under the stars.

Haven Farm wedding venue can accommodate up to 200 guests for a plated dinner. Couples have access to the farm from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on their wedding day. The venue also features a professional catering prep kitchen, a full-service bar team, parking attendants, and even a 30-passenger shuttle bus to transport guests.

Getting Ready at Haven Farm

The Homestead, a private home at Haven Farm wedding venue, provides a comfortable space for parties to get ready. It includes a suite, two bedrooms, restrooms, and a fully equipped kitchen. For a more rustic-chic experience, the venue also offers a converted horse stable as a second getting-ready space. The stable features restrooms, a kitchenette, a changing room, TVs, and games—giving a relaxed and stylish spot to prepare for the big day.

Haven Farm Wedding Details

Y’all, can we please take a moment to appreciate this stunning wedding cake by Sugar Euphoria? If you haven’t already heard, Sugar Euphoria is one of the top wedding cake and dessert caterers in North Carolina. Led by owner and head chef Randi Smith, the bakery is known for creating timeless confections with a modern twist and exquisite flavors. And let’s not forget the macarons—they are absolutely adorable and divine!

Heritage Flowers truly understood the assignment with these warm and elegant spring wedding florals. The combination of antique roses and lush greenery creates a dreamy, secret garden vibe. These arrangements scream romance and cottagecore, and Amanda’s camera captured every blooming detail.

True-to-Life Photography by Amanda Law

Heart of NC Weddings described Amanda Law’s images of Haven Farm wedding venue as “true-to-life photography.” But what does that mean? Simply put, her photos capture colors that look authentic—sometimes with just a touch of added vibrancy to enhance the beauty of the moment.

Amanda has been smitten with photographing weddings ever since her first gig. She felt enchanted by the love, raw emotions and warm fuzzies that come with major life celebrations.

“I thrive on helping you tell your unique tale, not just for yourselves but for generations to come,” explains Amanda. “I become your silent witness, capturing those bursts of uncontainable joy, those quiet and tender moments that take your breath away. Together, we weave a vibrant tapestry that will transport you back to that magical day, over and over again.”

Amanda Law is a partner photographer of Fancy This Photography and a beloved member of the team. Keep scrolling to see more stunning images of Haven Farm wedding venue by Amanda.

Haven Farm Wedding Details 

We are obsessed with this stationery suite by Wilkinson Creative Co. From the curvy edges and thoughtful color palette to the vintage inner-envelope print, it’s a gorgeous design from top to bottom.

Model Leanna Norris looked beautiful in custom wedding dresses and veils by Be Everthine. The Bardot beauty services created two unique hair and makeup looks to complement each gown, while accessories from Jewelry Authority added the perfect last touch.

NC Weddings by Amanda Law of Fancy This Photography

“My focus is on creating imagery that paints a vivid picture of your love, your story, and the essence of who you are,” Amanda says. “I’m not interested in cookie-cutter approaches—I’m all about capturing the real, the authentic, and the beautifully unique moments that make your love shine.”

Couples who work with Amanda don’t just get a photographer—they gain a dedicated partner who goes the extra mile to make their wedding experience a whimsical and unforgettable adventure.

Heart of NC Weddings featured Amanda Law’s images of Haven Farm wedding venue in the 2025 issue of the magazine.

Couples who work with Amanda Law of Fancy This Photography don't just get a photographer, but a partner in crime who's willing to go the extra mile to make your wedding unforgettable.

Photography // Amanda Law of Fancy This Photography

Publication // Heart of NC Weddings 

Creative Director // Amy Plant-Perdue of Plume Events

Venue // Haven Farm

Florals // Heritage Flowers

Wedding Dresses & Veils // Be Everthine

Jewelry // Jewelry Authority

Hair & Makeup // The Bardot

Cake // Sugar Euphoria

Tabletop Rentals // Party Reflections

Additional Rentals // Greenhouse Picker Sisters

Stationer // Wilkinson Creative Co.

Model // Leanna Norris

Tan // GLO Spray Tans

The Umstead Hotel and Spa Wedding of the Year

Katie Brown and John Gaito tied the knot on Nov. 16, 2024, and I, Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography, was honored to document their day. The Umstead Hotel and Spa wedding in Cary, North Carolina was filled with warm autumn colors and stunning floral arrangements by Once Gathered. The elegant seasonal theme complemented The Umstead’s natural beauty and earthy forest setting.

Katie and John exchanged vows at White Memorial Presbyterian Church in Raleigh before celebrating with family and friends at The Umstead. From the first moments of the morning to the last dance of the night, Nikki captured every candid and carefully planned moment—10 hours of blissful joy and love.

The couple chose Fancy This Photography because they wanted a photographer who would help them feel at ease in front of the camera.

“I felt like I had known Nikki my whole life,” says Katie. “She was so personable and excited to be part of our big day. It made me happy knowing she was going to be a big part of creating our memories.”

Nikki first put the bride-to-be at ease during their engagement session on the beach and their boat—one of the couple’s favorite places—which was later featured in Heart of NC Weddings magazine’s 2025 issue.

“Nikki made it so fun and relaxing,” Katie remembers. “She kept hyping me up, and we ended up having a great time.”

On their wedding day, Katie and John were completely at peace. “I’m honestly sad it’s all over,” Katie confesses. “I would highly recommend Nikki and her team!”

The Umstead Hotel and Spa wedding in Cary, North Carolina featuring fall floral arrangements by Once Gathered. Photo by Nikki of Fancy This Photography.

The Umstead Hotel and Spa Wedding

With the help of Elizabeth Flake Events, Katie and her mother brought this dreamy fall wedding to life. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the beauty of this real North Carolina wedding, captured by Nikki of Fancy This Photography. Keep scrolling to watch the day unfold!

Love Story: Katie Brown and John Gaito

Katie and John first met in 2016 when John worked for Katie’s father at their family business, Action Ski and Outdoor Tours. At the time, John was attending East Carolina University, while Katie was a student at Meredith College. The two began talking in 2018 and officially started dating that August.

A Thoughtful Engagement in the Highlands

John proposed to Katie in the Highlands of North Carolina, a place filled with special family memories. Each year, John’s parents planned a pre-holiday trip with their children and spouses, a tradition that allowed everyone to enjoy time together without the stress of deciding where to spend the holidays. In November 2023, John, his parents, his brother and sister-in-law, his sister, and Katie all gathered for a long weekend in the mountains.

The couple had designed Katie’s engagement ring together, incorporating sentimental family heirlooms. The ring features an oval diamond flanked by sapphires from Katie’s grandmother, with additional diamonds from her other grandmother’s wedding band set into the band. While Katie knew how the ring would look, the proposal itself remained a surprise.

On Nov. 4, 2023, John got down on one knee outside by a small pond near the house his family had rented for the weekend. John arranged for Katie’s parents to arrive and share in the celebration as a bonus surprise.

“When I saw my parents, I started crying, hugged them, and then immediately asked, ‘Wait, who has my dog?’” Katie recalls.

The newly engaged couple and their family continued the party with a toast at Old Edwards Inn and Spa, where they had the entire rooftop terrace to themselves.

“We were able to call friends and family and celebrate together, which was really special,” Katie says.

John was proud to have his father serve as best man for The Umstead Hotel and Spa wedding. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Nikki of Fancy This Photography captured John and Katie glowing in the light of their love after their intimate first look at The Umstead Hotel and Spa.

A No-Stress, Dog-Friendly Wedding Day at The Umstead

Katie’s dogs played a special role in their wedding day. She adopted a 4-year-old French bulldog named Lilly, while her family rescued an 8-year-old English bulldog named Pearl through Bullies 2 the Rescue. Both dogs stayed with Katie as she got ready at The Umstead Hotel and Spa, bringing a sense of comfort and joy to the morning. She even took Lilly for a peaceful walk around The Umstead’s lake early that morning—a quiet moment before the day’s festivities began.

Nikki captured some of the sweetest photos of the bride and groom celebrating with their pups.

“Since I’m an only child, my dogs are like my siblings, so having them in the room with us while everyone was getting their hair and makeup done made me feel at peace and calm,” Katie says.

The night before the wedding, Katie’s matron of honor stayed with her in her hotel room.

“I was able to take a moment, take it all in, and have a little sleepover before the big day,” she says.

The bride’s family rescued Pearl, an 8-year-old English bulldog, through Bullies 2 the Rescue

Hair and makeup by Reign Beauty, wedding dress from Martina Liana, bridesmaids dresses from Bella Bridesmaids, bouquets by Once Gathered and photo by Fancy This Photography at The Umstead Hotel and Spa wedding venue. 

Groom’s Favorite Memories 

John reflected on some of his favorite moments from the big day. Before the first look, nerves started to set in—as they do for most people. To calm them, he and his brother shared a meaningful drink together at The Umstead’s bar before the festivities began.

One of the most memorable moments for John was seeing his grandfather in a tuxedo. The wedding was a black-tie affair, and his grandfather hadn’t worn a tux since John’s mother married his father more than 30 years ago. Seeing him dressed up for the occasion made the day even more special.

One of the standout elements of Katie and John’s wedding at The Umstead Hotel and Spa was the stunning fall floral design by Once Gathered. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Ceremony at White Memorial Presbyterian Church

Katie grew up attending White Memorial Presbyterian Church with her family, and John went there for preschool. Choosing it as their ceremony location felt natural, given its deep family connection, beautiful architecture, and amazing organ.

Katie and John chose The Umstead Hotel and Spa wedding reception venue because Katie grew up at the Umstead. They also wanted a venue where their friends and family could dance all night and then go right up to their rooms for sleep after the reception.

The Umstead Hotel and Spa wedding venue was an easy choice for their reception. Katie grew up visiting The Umstead and knew it would provide a romantic and comfortable destination for their guests. Plus, they loved the convenience of letting everyone dance the night away and then head straight upstairs to their rooms for sleep.

“The Umstead is a stunning place, and we knew they would do an amazing job—and they surely did!” says Katie.

Katie grew up attending White Memorial Presbyterian Church with her family, and John went there for preschool. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

The Umstead Hotel and Spa Wedding Reception

For The Umstead Hotel and Spa wedding reception, Katie found a unique way to honor her mother—by transforming her mom’s wedding dress into a chic two-piece outfit. She wore the repurposed ensemble for the entire evening following the ceremony at White Memorial Presbyterian Church.

“It was so unique to have something that special with me throughout the night, and it was so different,” says Katie.

Adding a personal touch to the celebration, the couple treated guests to a fun late-night snack: Frenchie fries—Parmesan truffle fries—in honor of their dog, Lilly.

From sentimental fashion choices to playful nods to their pup, Katie and John’s wedding reception at The Umstead was a perfect reflection of their love and personality.

Venue // The Umstead Hotel and Spa, Flowers // Once Gathered, Dance Floor Monogram // JM Creative Designs, Tabletop Rentals // Curated Events Raleigh, Photo // Fancy This Photography

Floral installation by Once Gathered on the ceiling of The Umstead Hotel and Spa for Katie and John’s fall wedding reception. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Photography // Fancy This Photography

Ceremony Venue // White Memorial Presbyterian

Reception Venue // The Umstead Hotel and Spa - Kayla

Planning // Elizabeth Flake Events

Florist // Once Gathered

Band // The Embers

Tabletop Rentals & Tenting // Curated Events

Specialty Rentals // Greenhouse Picker Sisters

Drapery // Party Tables

Hair & Makeup // Reign Beauty

Cake // Around The Table 

Calligraphy // Jean Clarke 

Wedding Gown // Martina Liana

Bridesmaids Dresses // Bella Bridesmaids

Wedding Party Transportation // Southern Express

Live Painter // MBH Designs

Dance Floor Monogram // JM Creative Designs 

Haw River Ballroom Wedding in Saxapahaw NC

Deanna White and John Donnelly celebrated their vibrant and heartfelt Haw River Ballroom wedding in Saxapahaw NC, on May 4, 2024. Their spring wedding week was filled with color, joy, and meaningful moments. Every expression and detail was beautifully captured by Sarah Martin, a partner at Fancy This Photography. We’re thrilled to share their special day with y’all on the blog! 

Sarah also had the honor of photographing John’s surprise proposal to Deanna on a rooftop in downtown Durham in February 2023. Click here to see the photos from their epic engagement.

Haw River Kayaking & Durham Rehearsal Dinner

Deanna and John kicked off wedding festivities with a really cool experience for their wedding party—a kayaking trip along the Haw River, coordinated with Haw River Canoe & Kayak, on May 2.

“It was the perfect way to kick off the weekend—allowing us to relax, soak in the beauty of our venue, and spend some informal quality time together.”

Following their outdoor adventure on the Haw River, they hosted a rehearsal dinner and welcome party at 21c Museum Hotel Durham. The evening was filled with special moments, including toasts from their nieces and nephews and a cherished family tradition—John’s parents gifted them the family blessing cup, which was later used to serve communion during their Haw River Ballroom wedding ceremony.

Thanks to Kelly Morrison of Color Fields Flowers, the couple was able to repurpose their floral arrangements from the rehearsal dinner. Kelly smoothly incorporated them into their Haw River Ballroom wedding decor.

Keep scrolling to see how Deanna and John brought their dream Haw River Ballroom wedding in Saxapahaw NC to life with the help of talented local vendors.

On May 4, 2024, Sarah Martin of Fancy This Photography captured John and Deanna’s Haw River Ballroom wedding in Saxapahaw NC.

Haw River Ballroom Wedding in Saxapahaw NC Planned by The Gathering Co.

Deanna and John poured their hearts into creating a personal Haw River Ballroom wedding in Saxapahaw NC. It was a one-of-a-kind celebration of love, and Sarah of Fancy This Photography was honored to capture every moment.

Chelsy Ferguson of The Gathering Co. planned the couple’s wedding and seamlessly transitioned their originally outdoor ceremony indoors when rain forced a last-minute pivot. The indoor celebration turned out even more magical than they had imagined, and guests never knew it wasn’t the original plan.

“Our wedding night was the best night of our lives, and we can’t tell you how many compliments we received about the details. Guests kept telling us how intentional everything felt, how every design choice told our story, and how seamlessly everything came together—all thanks to The Gathering Co. From the moment we started working with Chelsy, she helped us establish a thoughtful, well-organized planning process, guiding us through every decision to ensure each element was both beautiful and executable. As the wedding day approached, she took the reins, allowing us to focus on what mattered most while she handled the logistics with ease.”

Deanna’s gorgeous gown is from Gavin Christianson Bridal, a wedding dress shop in downtown Durham.

Getting Ready at 21c Museum Hotel Durham

On the morning of the wedding, John and his groomsmen treated themselves to fresh shaves at Rocks Bar and Hair Shop in downtown Durham—a relaxing way to start the festivities. Later, they donned dapper suits and bow ties from The Black Tux. John stood out in a sharp maroon suit and black bow tie.

Meanwhile, Deanna and her bridal party got ready in style at the 21c Museum Hotel Durham Penthouse Suite. The suite provided plenty of space for Reign Beauty’s hair and makeup artists to work while the bridesmaids enjoyed some pre-ceremony fun. Deanna wore a stunning dress from Gavin Christianson Bridal while the bridesmaids looked gorgeous in an assortment of colorful gowns.

21c Museum Hotel Durham Events

Deanna and John chose 21c Museum Hotel Durham for its generous room block availability, suite options, and breathtaking ballroom, which they used for their rehearsal dinner and welcome party.

“As longtime Durham locals, we’re familiar with all the downtown hotels and needed to select a primary landing point for our out-of-town guests—many of whom were traveling from New York, where Deanna is from. With 30 to 40 rooms needed, securing a sizable room block at a discounted rate was a priority, and 21c was incredibly accommodating throughout the process. Their flexibility and bundled service options made negotiations seamless.

One highlight was the 21c Penthouse Suite, which stood out as the largest and most luxurious in Durham. It was perfect for the bridal party’s wedding-day preparations and also served as the setting for our farewell brunch on Sunday. Additionally, 21c offers a variety of smaller suites, one of which worked perfectly for the groomsmen to get ready.

The 21c ballroom was an ideal venue for our rehearsal dinner and welcome party, thanks to its spacious layout, affordability, central location, and exceptional in-house food and beverage program. The 21c staff truly went above and beyond to make our wedding weekend special—including a thoughtful surprise: custom robes embroidered with our new last name, waiting in our room after the wedding.

For anyone planning a wedding in Durham, we highly recommend 21c Museum Hotel—it exceeded our expectations in every way!"

The wedding parties got ready at 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Durham.

John looked dapper in a maroon suit and black bow tie. The hat was a perfect accessory for groom photos at 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Durham.

First Look on Third-Tier Balcony at Haw River Ballroom

Deanna and John’s first look took place on the third-tier balcony of the Haw River Ballroom—one of their most treasured moments from the day. It was a quiet, intimate time to share their vows privately before the whirlwind of the ceremony.

Their original plan was to have the first look outdoors, surrounded by nature along the Haw River. But the rain had other ideas, prompting them to move it inside. Thankfully, Haw River Ballroom offered the perfect alternative—a magical, private third-tier balcony overlooking the ballroom. With its cozy furniture and industrial windows, the space created an intimate setting.

“It was there, in that quiet moment, that we shared our first look and privately read our vows to each other—an incredibly special memory we’ll cherish forever.”

Deanna and John’s first look took place on the third-tier balcony of the Haw River Ballroom.

Puppy Love

Deanna and John’s two beloved pittie-mix pups, Miller, 8, and Savannah, 4, played a special role in their wedding day. They proudly walked down the aisle, joined the bride and groom for photos, and even “sponsored” cocktail hour—treating guests to Miller Lites and Savannah Ciders in their honor.

Deanna and John’s two beloved pittie-mix pups, Miller, 8, and Savannah, 4, played a special role in their wedding day.

Real Review of Fancy This Photography

Deanna and John can’t recommend Fancy This Photography highly enough.

“They have truly earned us as lifelong clients—we’ve trusted them with our proposal, wedding, and birthday party, and we’ll continue to rely on them for future milestones.

What sets Nikki and Sarah apart is their thoughtful approach and attention to detail. From the very beginning, they took the time to familiarize themselves with our venue, timeline, and event details, always ensuring they understood which moments mattered most to us. Customizing our wedding package with them was effortless, and they brought their A-game on the big day—arriving with a full team and seamlessly adapting when unexpected rain forced us to adjust our plans.

Beyond their exceptional planning and communication, we fully trust Fancy This to document our most important moments authentically while incorporating their unique creative vision—capturing perspectives we never would have thought of ourselves. We’ve already recommended Fancy This Photography to friends planning their weddings and are excited to attend a wedding in January where they’ll be behind the camera!”

“Given our passion for live music and nature, Haw River Ballroom felt like the perfect place to celebrate our love.” - Deanna Donnelly

Q: Why Plan a Haw River Ballroom Wedding in Saxapahaw NC?

A: “We share a deep love for music, live performances, and the outdoors, making Saxapahaw, NC one of our favorite places to visit. Whether it’s kayaking on the Haw River, attending the Saturdays in Saxapahaw Summer Concert Series, or catching a show at the Haw River Ballroom, we’ve always felt a special connection to this charming town.

Long before we got engaged, we were walking past the Haw River Ballroom when John casually remarked, “This would be a great wedding venue. I wonder if they even do weddings here.” Curious, Deanna asked a staff member, who enthusiastically shared that not only do they host weddings, but they also have a dedicated wedding team and planning program. When we got engaged, there was no question—Haw River Ballroom was at the top of our list. Given our passion for live music and nature, it felt like the perfect place to celebrate our love. A tour with Karina, the venue’s wedding coordinator, only confirmed our instincts. From that moment on, we didn’t consider a single other venue—we knew this was the one.

Throughout the planning process and on our wedding day, the Haw River Ballroom staff felt more like family than vendors. Their warmth and hospitality extended beyond us, creating a truly special experience for our guests. It was the perfect way to welcome our loved ones to our home in North Carolina and make them feel just as connected to this place as we do.”

Every expression and detail of Deanna and John’s Haw River Ballroom wedding was beautifully captured by Sarah Martin, a partner at Fancy This Photography.

Haw River Ballroom Wedding Ceremony

The Haw River Ballroom wedding ceremony was the heart of the whole week. Officiated by Rev. Ben Johnston-Krase alongside John’s father, Rev. Gerald Donnelly, it was filled with personal touches that made it deeply meaningful. John was especially thrilled to have a string quartet from Corda Entertainment perform during the ceremony and cocktail hour, setting the perfect vibe.

Deanna White and John Donnelly celebrated their vibrant and heartfelt Haw River Ballroom wedding in Saxapahaw NC, on May 4, 2024.

Rockin’ Haw River Ballroom Wedding Reception

At the Haw River Ballroom wedding reception, guests had a blast sneaking outside to the custom photo booth. Deanna and John set the entertainment up in front of their Scamp camper, thanks to ZimZoom Photo Booth.

But hands down, the highlight of the night was the live band! Live music was a top priority for us, and Another Level Band, booked through Sam Hill Entertainment, absolutely understood the assignment. Not only did they keep the energy high all night, but Deanna and John even got to jump on stage and perform alongside them—a moment their guests went crazy for!

John also surprised everyone with a confetti cannon explosion during one of the band’s performances, secretly planning it ahead of time with Karina at the Haw River Ballroom to make it happen.

Haw River Ballroom wedding in Saxapahaw NC by Sarah Martin of Fancy This Photography.

“What sets Nikki and Sarah apart is their thoughtful approach and attention to detail.” - Deanna Donnelly

During cocktail hour, one of the couple’s favorite details was the drink-filled canoe displayed on the second-tier balcony

Haw River Ballroom wedding reception, photo by Sarah Martin of Fancy This Photography.

“Fancy This Photography has truly earned us as lifelong clients—we’ve trusted them with our proposal, wedding, and birthday party, and we’ll continue to rely on them for future milestones.” - Deanna Donnelly

Haw River Ballroom Wedding in Saxapahaw NC Bride and Groom photo by Sarah Martin of Fancy This Photography

Last Dance - Haw River Ballroom Wedding

Before their sparkler send-off to a waiting limo from A Formal Affair LLC, Deanna and John took a moment to share a private last dance in the empty venue—alone. 

“After such an incredible night, having one final, quiet moment together in the ballroom was the perfect way to end it all. It was truly the best weekend of our lives!”

Photography // Sarah Martin of Fancy This Photography

Videography // HoneyDew Films

Planner // Chelsy Ferguson of The Gathering Co.

Venue // Haw River Ballroom 

Rehearsal Dinner, Welcome Party, Getting Ready // 21c Museum Hotel Durham

Flowers // Kelly Morrison with Color Fields Flowers

Hair & Makeup // Reign Beauty NC

Dress // Gavin Christianson Bridal

Formalwear // The Black Tux

Caterer // Saxapahaw General Store Catering

Dessert // Kristina Altuve with Mamacita’s Bakery NC

Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Music // Corda Entertainment

Reception Music // Another Level Band with Sam Hill Entertainment

Photo Booth // ZimZoom Photo Booth

Transportation // A Formal Affair Limo and Carolina Livery

Party Rentals // American Party Rentals

Party Rentals // Haw River Canoe Kayak