Multicultural Wedding at The Maxwell in Raleigh

On Oct. 6, 2024, Sonia Kelkar and Jake Strickland celebrated their love with a magical fall wedding at The Maxwell in Raleigh NC. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, the bride and groom radiated joy. The day was flawlessly planned by Daniel Varela of Harmony Weddings & Events, a beloved Durham-based event planning team. Courtney Collins, partner of Fancy This Photography, had the honor of capturing every moment of Sonia and Jake’s downtown Raleigh wedding day.

The couple shared vows in a gorgeous outdoor ceremony on The Maxwell’s green lawn before inviting guests into the venue’s Great Room for a seated reception. From the first look to family portraits and fall florals by Color Fields Flowers, Courtney’s photos bring this day to life with warmth and love.

Getting Ready at The Maxwell 

Sonia and Jake’s wedding at The Maxwell in Raleigh NC was filled with thoughtful details and emotional moments. But first, let’s start with their getting ready time in the venue’s luxurious private suite. Featuring cozy couches, giant mirrors, and ample lighting (natural and electric), the space offered the perfect setting for the wedding morning. Sonia and her bridal party began their day with hair and makeup by Tease and Blush. Intricate Indian bridal henna designs by Mystical Henna by Priya, completed just before the big day, added an extra special touch. The floral patterns of Sonia’s henna perfectly complemented her first gown of the day—a fabulous white dress adorned with fabric flower petals and delicate lace.

Jake looked handsome in a sharp blue suit and tie, with a vibrant orange and yellow boutonniere that popped against his jacket. 

Keep scrolling to see more of Sonia and Jake’s wedding at The Maxwell in Raleigh NC, beautifully captured by Courtney Collins of Fancy This Photography.

Featuring couches, mirrors, and ample lighting, The Maxwell’s private suite is the perfect for getting ready pictures. Photo by Courtney Collins, partner of Fancy This Photography.

Learn More: Wedding at The Maxwell in Raleigh NC

Located less than four miles from downtown Raleigh, The Maxwell has quickly become one of the most sought-after wedding venues in North Carolina’s Triangle area. At Fancy This Photography, we’ve loved watching the Hand family pour their time, love, and dedication into building this venue from the ground up. The Maxwell is a modern event space that can host up to 400 guests and offers everything you could dream of for your big day. With whitewashed brick walls, oak wood finishes, and good lighting, the venue provides a beautiful blank canvas for any wedding style. Unlike many downtown Raleigh wedding venues, The Maxwell also features outdoor event spaces! Trust us, there are endless options for capturing unforgettable moments.

First Look at The Maxwell

Before their wedding, Sonia and Jake chose to share an intimate first look on The Maxwell’s outdoor patio. Surrounded by fresh greenery and framed by French Quarter gas lanterns, the couple’s first look in front of the whitewashed brick wall was simply magical. Courtney Collins expertly captured their genuine reactions, setting the tone for the rest of the day.

Courtney photographed Sonia and Jake with their closest family and friends outside following the first look. After that, everyone assembled for their heartfelt outdoor ceremony on The Maxwell’s manicured green lawn.

Before their wedding, Sonia and Jake chose to share an intimate first look on The Maxwell’s outdoor patio. Photo by Courtney Collins, partner of Fancy This Photography.

Indian Wedding Henna Traditions

We love how Sonia and Jake added a modern twist to an ancient wedding tradition. Look closely, and you’ll spot NC State University monograms seamlessly included in their henna tattoo designs—a sweet nod to their college love story. At Fancy This Photography, we love capturing the weddings of college sweethearts. Go Pack!

On Oct. 6, 2024, Sonia Kelkar and Jake Strickland celebrated their love with a magical fall wedding at The Maxwell in Raleigh NC.

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony at The Maxwell

Sonia and Jake hosted a lovely outdoor wedding on The Maxwell’s expansive 7,500-square-foot lawn in Raleigh, NC. The ceremony began as Sonia, escorted by her father, walked down the bright green aisle. She carried a warm bridal bouquet of orange, yellow, and pink blooms designed by Color Fields Flowers. Her bouquet perfectly complemented the vibrant floral arrangements lining the ceremony aisle, adding a touch of romance and warmth to the setting.

Guests rose from their white chairs as the beautiful bride made her entrance. At the altar, Sonia and Jake exchanged vows surrounded by a breathtaking horseshoe-shaped floral arrangement on the ground. This unique design added a personal and unforgettable touch to the ceremony space, naturally complementing the green, tree-filled backdrop.

The combination of careful details, vibrant colors, and natural beauty made Sonia and Jake’s outdoor wedding ceremony at The Maxwell both intimate and memorable. Keep scrolling to see more photos by Courtney Collins, partner of Fancy This Photography.

Sonia and Jake hosted a lovely outdoor wedding on The Maxwell’s expansive 7,500-square-foot lawn in Raleigh, NC.

Indoor Wedding Reception at The Maxwell

When you first step into The Maxwell’s Great Room, your eyes are immediately drawn upward to its epic vaulted ceilings. One of the standout features of the space is the 15-foot gas fireplace finished with a reclaimed wood mantel. Sonia and Jake made this feature a centerpiece of their reception by placing their sweetheart table right in front of the fireplace. They beautifully draped the fireplace mantel and their sweetheart table in warm, cascading fall wedding florals by Color Fields Flowers. The Great Room’s statement chandeliers and modern lighting added an extra layer of elegance to the ambiance.

For dinner, Under the Oaks Catering delighted guests with a mouthwatering feast, while Capital Cakes created a crisp two-tiered wedding cake decorated with warm florals. The reception tables, covered with rentals from Party Reflections of Raleigh, were styled to perfection, seamlessly tying in with the overall aesthetic.

The celebration continued into the evening as Stylus Weddings DJ kept the energy high with upbeat tunes and a lively dance floor. Toward the end of the night, Sonia and Jake shared a private final dance on the Great Room’s floor—a moment filled with intimacy and love. They concluded their one-of-a-kind evening with a sparkler exit, surrounded by their loved ones lighting up the night sky.

Sonia and Jake beautifully draped the fireplace mantel and their sweetheart table in warm, cascading fall wedding florals by Color Fields Flowers.

For dinner, Under the Oaks Catering delighted guests with a mouthwatering feast, while Capital Cakes created a crisp two-tiered wedding cake decorated with warm florals.

Indian Wedding Style Outfit Change

Adding a touch of tradition and flair to the reception, Sonia and Jake changed into second wedding outfits, a nod to the bride’s Indian heritage. Sonia stunned in a breathtaking red-and-gold saree, while Jake looked dapper in a dark blue formal coat paired with white pants. These outfit changes added yet another layer of beauty and meaning to their wedding at The Maxwell in Raleigh NC.

Photography // Courtney Collins of Fancy This Photography 

Venue // The Maxwell Raleigh

Planning // Daniel of Harmony Weddings & Events

Catering // Under The Oaks Catering

Florist // Color Fields Flowers

Dessert // Capital Cakes NC

Rentals // Party Reflections

Beauty // Tease and Blush

Entertainment // Stylus Weddings DJ

Henna & Mendhi // @mysticalhennabypriya

Elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain 

Y’all, it’s true—elopements in Sevilla, Spain, just hit different. This styled elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain is full of vibrant colors, romance, and a zest for life and love.

Once an ancient Roman villa, Palacio 7 Balcones is a dream setting for a destination wedding photographer (aka me, Nikki). Nestled in a cozy plaza in Castilleja de la Cuesta, the palace is a hidden gem featuring picturesque archways, Spanish tile, and lush gardens. Dating back to the 18th century, Palacio 7 Balcones has been carefully restored to offer modern luxury while retaining its old-world charm. With its stunning indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s the perfect Sevilla wedding venue to celebrate love and matrimony.

Elope in Sevilla

This styled elopement was planned by Lynn Weistroffer of Lux Wedding, an international wedding planner and designer with decades of experience. From the citrus-inspired outdoor dinner décor to the majestic courtyard ceremony setup, Lynn’s vision for an elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain was pure magic. Photographing her design at this historic Sevilla wedding venue was an absolute joy. Keep scrolling to see more of the details and the beautiful moments captured during this incredible day.

“What I love about Spain is the culture, the food, and how they love. I’ve never felt more rested than I do after siesta. We came back to the States more refreshed than when we left. Spain is a beautiful country, and one day I’ll have a home over there—just wait and see.” —Nikki Whitt Belch, founder and owner of Fancy This Photography

Nestled in a cozy plaza in Castilleja de la Cuesta, Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla, Spain is a hidden gem featuring picturesque archways, Spanish tile, and lush gardens. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

4 Ways to Elevate Your Elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain

Send Elopement Invitations - Even if your guest list is limited to 10 people—or fewer—there’s no reason to skip the fun of stationery! Elopement save-the-dates or invitations are a charming way to set the tone and create beautiful keepsakes.

Choose Unique Elopement Fashion - Two wedding looks are better than one! Pick one outfit for the ceremony and another for the post-elopement fiesta. Think outside the box—traditional wedding attire rules don’t apply here. We loved the statement sleeves on our bride’s first gown and the playful, couture vibe of her second two-piece ensemble. For grooms, monochromatic suits paired with high-fashion statement sneakers are a chic and modern choice.

Have an Elopement Wedding Ceremony - Eloping doesn’t mean skipping the magic of a wedding ceremony. In fact, we highly recommend it! An elopement ceremony allows you to commemorate the occasion, celebrate your love, and exchange heartfelt vows. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small circle of loved ones, a ceremony adds meaning and romance to your elopement day. Palacio 7 Balcones wedding venue has multiple indoor and outdoor event spaces that are perfect for an intimate elopement wedding ceremony.

Host an Intimate Dinner Reception - If close friends or family have traveled to celebrate with you, a small dinner reception is a wonderful way to thank them and share in the joy. Plus, nothing brings people together like sharing a meal. At Palacio 7 Balcones, the in-house culinary team can craft custom menus that perfectly suit your taste buds.

Keep scrolling for more inspiration from this elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain!

Dating back to the 18th century, Palacio 7 Balcones has been carefully restored to offer modern luxury while retaining its old-world charm. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Learn More: Elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain

Sevilla is a cool blend of old-world character and modern vibes. It’s the perfect elopement destination for adventurous, open-minded couples who appreciate culture and tradition. If you want a wedding that feels personal and inspired by love, the city’s beautiful streets and historic villas will draw you in and bring you closer to your partner. In Sevilla, color and shape come alive at every turn—from the architecture to the cuisine and fashion.

Planning an elopement abroad can feel overwhelming, which is why choosing an all-inclusive wedding venue in Sevilla often makes the process easier. After a long journey, you’ll want to arrive at a place that has everything you need—and Palacio 7 Balcones delivers. It’s the best venue for a Sevilla wedding, offering on-site catering, historic beauty with modern comforts, spacious living areas, fabulous fine art, and an intimate, private garden atmosphere. Palacio 7 Balcones combines the royal swag of a Spanish palace with the inviting warmth of a family home.

As you explore the estate, you’ll encounter colorful Spanish tile staircases, intricately designed iron gates, open-air balconies, and ornate gardens. This Sevilla wedding venue provides a fairytale setting for both celebration and photography. Enjoy the serene surroundings, delicious fine dining, and professional service that make Palacio 7 Balcones extraordinary. One visit to this stunning Sevilla wedding venue, and you’ll see why it’s been featured by Vogue España.

Fruit & Flowers: Elopement in Sevilla

Wedding themes and color palettes inspired by hand-picked seasonal fruit are one of our favorite ancient trends making a modern comeback. Party like the Romans did! Imagine a table adorned with overflowing cups of wine and vases brimming with fresh fruit and blossoming flowers. Incorporating fruit or food into your wedding table centerpieces is not only eye-catching but also memorable. Weddings and elopements in Spain are renowned for their rich, colorful, and flavorful culture—and that extends to their décor.

Styling your wedding or elopement with fresh and dried fruit is a creative, budget-friendly way to add texture, color, and a sweet aroma to your intimate event. We loved photographing these juicy fresh oranges, dried orange slices, and vivacious pink blooms paired with intricate blue plates and gold flatware. It’s serving classy cornucopia love feast!

Want to add a fun cheeky touch? Let your guests take home a piece of fruit as a post-dinner snack or even a treat for breakfast the next day.

Here are some fruits to consider including in your elopement or wedding table design:

Citrus: Lemons, limes, blood oranges, and pineapples (yellow or pink)

Classic Choices: Apples (red, yellow, green) and pears (red or yellow)

Grapes & Berries: Green, red, or black grapes; strawberries; blackberries; cranberries, cherries

Unique Ones: Fuzzy peaches, figs, plums, pomegranates, avocado

Seasonal Picks: Watermelon (yellow or red), pumpkins (orange, white, yellow etc.), squash, carrots

From vibrant colors to yummy textures, fruit-inspired wedding décor captures the spirit of life, love, and celebration. Keep scrolling to see more from this elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain by Fancy This Photography.

Palacio 7 Balcones wedding venue provides a fairytale setting for both celebration and photography. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Palacio 7 Balcones combines the royal swag of a Spanish palace with the inviting warmth of a family home. Photo by Fancy This Photography.

Weddings and elopements in Spain are renowned for their rich, colorful, and flavorful culture—and that extends to their décor.

An elopement ceremony allows you to commemorate the occasion, celebrate your love, and exchange heartfelt vows. Bride and groom elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones by Fancy This Photography.

Elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain

This styled elopement at Palacio 7 Balcones in Sevilla Spain is full of warm colors, romance, and an appreciation for life. For more elopement inspiration, click here to see photos from Fancy This Photography’s Elopement at Plaza de España in Sevilla, Spain.

Photography // Fancy This Photography

Venue // Palacio 7 Balcones

Planning & Design // Lynn Weistroffer with LuxWedding

Bridal Gown // Marry Me Bridal Store

Jewelry // BY LÉA par Léa Milekovska

A Visit to Saltbox Seafood Joint

Fresh Flavors and Authentic Atmosphere in Durham, NC - Photographed by Nikki

When you step into the Saltbox Seafood Joint in Durham, NC, you’re met with an atmosphere that’s as fresh and authentic as the food they serve. From the moment you see the iconic sign outside and the welcoming picnic tables on the lawn, you know you’re in for a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

Inside, the vibe is warm and inviting, with walls adorned in memorabilia and coastal decor that reflect the restaurant's dedication to fresh, local seafood and Southern charm. From framed newspaper clippings to maritime-themed artwork, every detail tells the story of Saltbox’s roots and the passion behind its dishes.

Saltbox Seafood Joint operates as a walk-up-and-order establishment, making it a perfect spot for a quick yet fulfilling meal. The menu, proudly displayed above the ordering counter, boasts an impressive selection of plates and rolls, including favorites like crispy grouper bites, shrimp rolls, and spicy mahi. You can pair these with Southern sides like collards or crispy potatoes for a well-rounded meal.

As a Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill food photographer, I couldn't help but capture the artistry of the dishes Saltbox serves. From the vibrant hues of their tangy slaw to the golden crisp of their seafood, every plate is a visual feast as much as it is a culinary one. Food photography isn't just about snapping pictures of meals—it's about bringing the textures, colors, and freshness of the dish to life, making the viewer feel as if they could reach through the screen and take a bite.

Whether it’s highlighting the bold, authentic flavors of local restaurants like Saltbox or photographing dishes for chefs and food brands, I love documenting the stories food tells. In the Triangle area, from Raleigh to Durham and Chapel Hill, there’s no shortage of amazing culinary creations to capture.

What truly sets Saltbox apart is the vibrant presentation of the food. The dishes are packed with bold flavors and colors, from the bright purple slaw atop golden fried fish tacos to the rich greens of collard sides. The freshness is undeniable, and the attention to detail in every bite shows the care that Chef Ricky Moore and his team put into their craft. As a food photographer, places like Saltbox are a dream to shoot because every plate feels like a work of art.

As you dig in, the sense of community and joy in the space becomes palpable. Whether you're sharing a spread of crispy seafood with family or savoring a taco topped with tangy slaw and a drizzle of their signature green sauce, every meal here feels like a celebration of fresh ingredients and good company.

If you’re looking for a spot that embodies the heart of Durham’s culinary scene, Saltbox Seafood Joint should be at the top of your list. And if you’re a chef, restaurant owner, or brand looking to capture the beauty of your creations in the Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill area, I’d love to help bring your vision to life through food photography.