WEDDING BLOG

Bohemian accents and sentimental touches were abundant at Katie and Jeffrey’s Sunset Beach wedding in North Carolina. The truly family-oriented celebration included a unique rock throwing ceremony where each guest tossed three stones into the sea: one for the bride and groom, one for self, and one for the world. The resulting images captured by Rob + Kristen Photography are absolutely moving, and something the couple will forever cherish. The laid-back affair continued with a colorful reception at The Isles Restaurant and Tiki Bar, where the newlyweds danced the night away.

The Couple:

Katie and Jeffrey

The Wedding:

Sunset Beach, North Carolina

The Inspiration:

Sunset Beach has been Katie‘s family vacation destination for decades. The beach theme was easy to play with. We wanted the decor colorful but simple, allowing the beauty of the natural surroundings to shine. We found a florist who worked with a local farm to provide vibrant native flowers in bloom at the time.

The bridesmaids wore dresses of their choosing in jewel tones. The groomsmen referenced the groom’s tan seersucker suit with khaki pants and white shirts. Custom monogrammed seersucker ties were color-matched to the bridesmaids’ dresses and also worn by the fathers of the the bride and groom. Everyone in the bridal party went barefoot and guests were encouraged to dress comfortably. The bride crafted a colorful flower wreath to be worn during post-ceremony festivities. Casual, comfortable and natural were the rules of the day.

The Moments:

Jeff: After missing boutonnieres were noticed, one of the ushers ran back to get them but moments later returned (without boutonnieres) shouting “SHE’S COMING!” announcing the bride’s entrance to the beach ceremony.

Katie: Spending some quiet moments with Jeffrey while being photographed before joining the reception party; a rock toss at the end of the beach ceremony. Our officiant encouraged all attendees to throw three stones/blessings into the ocean: One for bride and groom, one for self, and one for the world; entering the reception room while being “announced” to a room full of cheers and applause…leading right into the first dance “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)” by Talking Heads; and the dancing! The DJ completely catered to our every request, allowing us to create the entire night’s playlist.

The Couple Recommends:

Our wedding photographers, Rob and Kristen were professional and beyond talented. They instantly made us feel comfortable as we were nervously got ready on our wedding day. They provided direction and sage advice in an unassuming way, bringing calm to an otherwise crazy day.

David and Margo Sears, our officiants. This married duo really understands what is essential to making a wedding ceremony poignant and personal. Working together with their suggestions, we built our ceremony piece-by-piece from beginning to end. They helped us to choose meaningful words that gave structure to the ceremony and allowed us to remain true to ourselves.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Rob + Kristen Photography
Ceremony Venue – Sunset Beach
Reception Venue – The Isles Restaurant and Tiki Bar
Floral Design – Encore Florals and Gifts
Cake – Coquette Patisserie
Officiant – David Sears
DJ – Broadway Jake
Wedding Dress – Miranda’s Vintage Bridal
Bridal Accessories – Chacos
Bridesmaids’ Accessories – Dream Junkies, Pyrite Sky, Glass Ceiling
Groom’s Apparel – Jos A. Bank
Groomsmen’s Accessories – Mercy Streams
Rentals – L&L Tent and Party Rentals
Favors – Mint and Lemon

Congrats to Katie and Jeffrey on your big day, and a huge thanks to Rob + Kristen Photography for sharing! For more relaxed beach wedding inspiration, check out Claire and Alex’s rustic beach wedding in Australia.