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

Textures That Almost Tickle the Taste Buds

Durham Food Photography at M Sushi

Nikki here from Fancy This Photography! If you know me, you know I can’t resist the lure of beautifully presented food, and I'm thrilled to share our latest adventure at M Sushi in Durham, a spot that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.

On this shoot, we played with shadows and light to draw out the vibrant colors and intricate textures of M Sushi's dishes. One of my favorite moments was capturing the graceful pour of soy sauce—a simple yet captivating scene that becomes almost hypnotic under the right light.

What really makes M Sushi stand out are the textures: the smooth, glossy fish atop a bed of perfectly seasoned rice, and the crispy tempura that adds just the right crunch. By focusing up close, we aimed to bring out these textures so palpably that you could almost feel them through the screen.

It’s clear that the chefs at M Sushi are true artists. Their plating is impeccable, combining colors and shapes in a way that's both balanced and exciting. Through our lenses, we aimed to showcase their artistry, making each dish not just seen but experienced.

Each dish at M Sushi tells a story, from the fiery drizzle of a special sauce to the delicate arrangement of a sushi roll. Our goal was to bring these stories to life, inviting viewers to see the passion and precision that goes into every dish.

M Sushi's culinary wonders was a delightful experience that reminded me why I love food photography. It's all about bringing out the best in what’s plated in front of us and sharing it with the world.

Looking to spice up your own restaurant's online presence or just enjoy some mouthwatering visuals? Contact us and let's chat about how we can make your dishes pop off the screen!

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