Anyone from North Carolina knows that October is the most magical month of all. The light is warm, we beam proudly for the land of the pines, and we know whenever James Taylor's timeless tune "Carolina on My Mind" plays, it should be immediately followed by Petey Pablo's "Raise Up," which we all know as the modern day anthem for the Tar Heel State. Katya + Garrett definitely got this right on their wedding night.

I met these two as part of our UNC dental school family back at the beginning of that era of our lives. Katya was intelligent, witty, a lover of sloths, + wonderfully independent, (also a huge grammar nerd, so please, don't destroy this blog post!) so I knew we'd be great friends. A few months later, I met Garrett at Carolina Coffee Shop and he had me in tears with his jokes and laid back personality. I remember Katya telling me she never met a soul who wasn't completely at ease when they met Garrett and I can attest to this. That night, I immediately knew exactly why these two were so perfect for each other. Both extremely driven Tar Heels, their personalities allowed them to be serious when needed, but let loose in the best way possible making these two lovable + quirky individuals a strong, smart, and downright hilarious as a couple.

Their wedding day was full of love + warmth that exuded from their family, friends, and the gorgeous North Carolina October day. The Queen City was vibrant with their love as they said their unforgettable vows (you two had me in tears behind my camera), smiled in pure love + joy as the crowd exclaimed "Mazel Tov!," danced their first dance smoother than Harry, Hermione, + Ron ever could imagine doing at the Yule Ball, and partied their night away as the crowd lifted them into a traditional Horah dance.

Katya + Garret, I wish you all the love in the world. Your infectious sense of humor, love, and ability to grow together is such an inspiration. It was such an honor to document your wedding day + the love you two share! Here's to many, many years of loving each other + laughing any trouble away!

Venue: Renaissance Charlotte Southpark

Dress: Paloma Blanca

Suit: Jos. A. Bank

Florals: Shawna from Ribald Farms

Cake: Sky's the Limit

Videographer: Deano Pictures

DJ: Charlie from Split Second Sound

Makeup/Hair: Blo Charlotte

String Trio: Charlotte Strings

Photo Booth: Shutterbooth

Invitations + Hand-lettered Signs: Laney Schenk

Philip + Danielle are one of the most intelligent, hilarious, and laid-back couples I've ever known. When we met for their engagement session last year, we laughed about calves (Danielle is a NCSU Veterinary student + Ph.D candidate and Philip is a Ph.D candidate in the Vet School as well!), talked about their future, + frolicked with their pup, Finley. Almost a year later, I showed up on a rainy + blustery October day, wellies strapped on, and almost broke a rib laughing with them as I photographed their wedding day at the beautiful Starlight Meadow in Burlington, N.C.

These two could not be more perfect for each other. Their love for each other, their families, + animals shined through the thick clouds throughout their wedding day. They glowed as they said their vows, laughed at each other's adorable awkward moments, and sunk into each others arms as they danced the night away. Even despite Danielle having to wear a dress (occasionally accessorized by her Pella jacket + plaid flannel), her beauty + nurturing personality shined through as she + Philip giggled throughout their ceremony.

Their reception was filled with a lot of dancing, BBQ, corn hole + of course, the classic Mulan number, "I'll Make A Man Out of You." Their rustic reception included subtle cow details, twinkle lights, gorgeous fall floral arrangements, and an N.C. State fueled "Wagon Wheel" dance.

Philip + Danielle, you two fill my heart with joy! Your love made all the rain glitter and your warm spirits made your day unforgettable. I'm honored to say that I have some of the smartest + funniest friends who trust me to photograph their memories. Thanks, y'all!