This past weekend, I had the joy of photographing Alicia and Matt’s wedding at the breathtaking Twisted Vines Vineyard in North Carolina, and it being my first wedding of the spring this year, it did not disappoint! From the golden light pouring over the vines to the intimate moments between the couple, everything about this day was relaxed, beautiful, and so heartfelt.

Getting Ready – The Calm Before the Celebration

The day started with Alicia getting ready in the cozy bridal suite at the vineyard, tucked away just far enough from the main space to feel like a little haven. She was surrounded by her sister, mom, and closest friends- here was this easy, joyful energy in the room—no rushing, no nerves, just pure excitement.

Alicia wore a classic, elegant gown with delicate lace details and a soft train that flowed like poetry. Her look was timeless, and it fit the mood of the venue perfectly. She kept her accessories simple—just a pair of pearl earrings and her grandmother’s bracelet, which she told me was her “something old.”

Meanwhile, Matt was getting ready with his groomsmen a few doors down. When I popped over to photograph him slipping on his suit, the vibe was a mix of excitement and that “I can’t believe this is happening” awe that I always love capturing. He was calm but clearly eager, and when I asked him how he was feeling, he just said, “I can’t wait to see her.”

The First Look with Mom

Before the ceremony, Alicia and her mom opted to do a first look out by the edge of the vineyard.

It was one of those moments that reminds you why first looks with parents can be so powerful!

The Ceremony – Vows Beneath the Vines

Twisted Vines has this stunning ceremony site tucked between a gorgeous white, modern barn and a sweeping view of the vineyard. Guests gathered on wooden chairs facing a handcrafted wood carved doors draped in greenery and roses. The sun was starting its slow descent behind the hills, casting that golden hour glow that every photographer dreams of.

Alicia walked down the aisle to a string quartet- As she stepped onto the path, Matt couldn’t stop smiling. It wasn’t a big emotional breakdown—it was better. It was that kind of quiet, steady joy that says, “This is exactly where I’m meant to be.”

Cocktail Hour – Vineyard Views and Relaxed Vibes

After the ceremony, guests flowed into cocktail hour on the open lawn in the front of the venue. Twisted Vines knows how to host a party—signature drinks were served from a bar cart, and there were small bites that disappeared almost as quickly as they appeared.

Meanwhile, I stole Alicia and Matt away for a few golden hour portraits across the vineyard, by the lake. This is always one of my favorite parts of the day—those few minutes where the light is perfect, and the couple is officially married, and all the pressure is gone. We wandered the vineyard, letting them just be together. It wasn’t overly posed; it didn’t need to be. They were just present with each other, and that made every frame feel honest and real.

The Reception – Twinkling Lights, the Sea Snake and So Much Dancing

As the sun dipped below the hills, guests made their way into the reception space—a charming open-air barn strung with twinkling lights and filled with long wooden tables, wildflower centerpieces, and candles that flickered late into the night.

Their first dance was upbeat and gun, and it was everything you’d want it to be: intimate, a little playful, completely them.

Dinner was a laid-back comfort food (my fav)- and then came the dancing. I’ve seen some lively dance floors, but this one was something else. From the first beat the DJ dropped to the last song of the night, that floor was packed. Matt’s dad even joined in for a few songs, and let me tell you—he held his own out there.

A Huge Shoutout to Twisted Vines Vineyard

I can’t end this post without shouting out the amazing team at Twisted Vines Vineyard. From the moment I arrived, they were welcoming, professional, and incredibly accommodating—not just to me, but to every vendor and guest. They made sure Alicia and Matt’s day flowed smoothly from start to finish and went above and beyond to make the whole experience stress-free. If you’re a couple looking for a romantic, all-in-one vineyard wedding venue in North Carolina, Twisted Vines should absolutely be on your list.

Those Quiet, In-Between Moments

One of the things I loved most about this wedding was the quiet in-between moments. Like when Alicia’s mom reached out for her hand just before walking Alicia made her way down the aisle, or the way Matt looked at her during dinner, totally unaware anyone was watching. Or when the two of them stepped outside for a few minutes during the reception just to take it all in.

It’s easy to think weddings are all about the big moments—the kiss, the first dance, the send-off—but it’s these little ones that really tell the story. The way the light caught in Alicia’s hair during sunset. The soft sound of laughter echoing across the vineyard.

As a wedding photographer, it’s these little, fleeting scenes that I love to capture—honest, real, and unposed.

Final Thoughts – A Love That Feels Like Home

Alicia and Matt’s wedding wasn’t just beautiful—it was full of soul. The kind of day that doesn’t need grand gestures or Pinterest-perfect details (though there were plenty of those) to leave an impression. It was about two people who genuinely love each other, surrounded by their people, celebrating something real.

As a wedding photographer serving North Carolina couples and beyond, these are the weddings that stick with me. The ones filled with intention, personality, and a deep sense of love. Alicia and Matt, thank you for trusting me to document your story. Your day was unforgettable, and your love is something really special.

Until next time, Twisted Vines—you never disappoint.