Maryann and John Exchange Vows at The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, March 5, 2011

Maryann and John met in New York on March 5, twenty years ago. They had kept in touch through the years as their lives went along and about three years ago they decided to build a relationship at last. Living and working in separate states, this has been hard for them to accomplish and as of this writing their lives are still going to be in separate states for a while until they figure out a good place for both of them to be professionally. Talk about a modern dilemma!

I met with Maryann early in the planning stages but with John in New York, I wasn’t able to meet with him until the day of the rehearsal. It was easy to see right away why he and Maryann are such a great fit - they both have a great sense of humor and make each other laugh all the time.

They also have a great sense of style, as evidenced by their choice of The Carolina Inn as the wedding location. What a wonderful, historic Inn this is and they chose the intimate Bryan Courtyard as the setting for their lovely wedding. This courtyard is a favorite of all of us who do weddings at The Carolina Inn because of its privacy and old brick charm.

No matter the time of year, all the grounds of The Carolina Inn are beautiful. The front entrance changes its display as the year progresses and here it is that day, alive with colorful spring flowers and interesting sculpture that reflects the areas’s reputation for handmade pottery.

This is the Bryan Courtyard, set up for Maryann and John’s wedding.

And the little details that always make such a difference.

This lantern was one of many hung in the tree with candles in them. It was a lovely touch and not one I had ever seen used there before. The copper was shining brightly in the crisp morning sun and it really was beautiful in its simplicity.

The gathering place for the bridal party and family was the cheery sunroom, just off the courtyard. With a full wall of windows facing the morning sunshine and its bright, happily colored furnishings, it was a great staging location for such a happy event.

Maryann and John had put their hearts into the creation of the ceremony, which included two readings and a solo by their friend, Robert, who sang, “When I Say I Do,” by Matthew West. I had never heard that song before and it was a perfect addition to the lovely, heartfelt wedding.

After the ceremony we all gathered in the sunroom for hugs and congratulations. Maryann and John had a chance to sit for a few minutes before heading outside for the photos and I caught this sweet shot of John looking lovingly at Maryann. It was such a touching moment.

Drinks and hors d’oeuvres were provided by Devon Schwartz, the Social Catering Manager of The Carolina Inn, shown here making sure all was going well for the happy couple.

What nice goodies Devon provided!

The other professionals on hand that day to help make the wedding memories so special were;

the fun and creative wedding planner, Erin McLean, of Erin McLean Events, shown here with our talented DJ, Jeff Simpson, of Simpsound DJ and Lighting Services.

The beautiful flowers and courtyard decorations were provided by Tre Bella Flowers.

And their international award-winning photographer was the ever charming and talented Neil Boyd, of Neil Boyd Photography. Ably assisted that day by his second shooter, Adrienne, I can’t wait to see their photos when they are online. Their tag-teaming is sure to produce some amazing shots. Here they are at work.

Maryann and John, I know you will be very happy together. No matter which state you end up living in under the same roof, I hope Life has grand things in store and you spend your days as the treasures to each other that you were meant to be.