Lauren + Ben | An Old Southern Tradition | The Carolina Inn

As we begin a new season of the year and welcome the cooler breeze and cozy scarf weather, we can't help but reflect back on some of the fantastic weddings we were so fortunate to be a part of this summer. One that is particularly top of mind today -- Lauren & Ben's Southern Summer wedding, steeped in tradition, simplistic beauty, and a whole lot of fun. This couple knew how to play their cards right. Not only did they summon up some good old Southern folk lore to chase the rain away, they were blessed with a breathtaking double rainbow to prove it. How you might ask, did the forecast of 100% chance of rain on L+B's wedding day turn into a sunshine filled afternoon as they said "I Do"? Well you'll have to keep reading to find out their secret...

Plum Pretty Sugar Robes Chapel Hill Bride

Lauren had immaculate taste right down to these lovely little robes by Plum Pretty Sugar for her posse of ladies! We love the bright pops of color and all the sweet matching smiles the girls donned on L's day. Shout out to Makeup For Your Day for the gorgeous wedding day hair + makeup!

university Presbyterian wedding chapel Hill

Ben's father served as his best man, their relationship and closeness was so evident throughout the week - such a great touch to include family in your wedding party!

Lauren chose a soft blue hue for her bridemaids' gowns by Amsale, reminiscent of her Alma Mater , UNC Chapel Hill. The bright white and blush bouquets filled with peonies, hydrangea, and of course peonies, were created by the ever talented, Tre Bella Florist. Lauren's gown may have been the crown jewel of the day, so elegant and quintessentially Southern. A design by Romona Keveza, and chosen from Traditions by Anna in Raleigh, North Carolina, the lace sleeve detail was breathtaking and Lauren was absolutely stunning in it.

Have you ever seen a daddy look so proud. Love this shot captured by Nancy Ray Photography just moments before Lauren walked down the aisle!

So I promised you the secret to sunshine on your wedding day. True to Southern tradition and proved to be accurate by Lauren + Ben, they buried a bottle of bourbon the month before their wedding day in the place they were to be married. So once the vows were said and the knot was tied, Ben and his new Father-in-Law dug up the bottle and toasted to the good weather and the new Mr. and Mrs. Leader! When all the guests were safely to the Carolina Inn for the evening's festivities, the clouds released and Chapel Hill was sprinkled with a sweet spring rain and capped off with the most amazing double rainbow right above the Carolina Inn for all to see.

Entryway Centerpiece peonies Hydrangea White and Blush

All of L's details were as classic and beautiful as she was. Mixing warm ivories, hints of gold detail, and easy flowing greenery, the Hill Ballroom was transformed into a magical space to dance the night away!

Did you catch that? Another nod to Southern heritage? The Mint Julep cup made a subtle appearance in some of the couple's cocktail arrangements sprinkled throughout the reception space.

One of my favorite personal elements that we brought into Lauren + Ben's design was a nod to both of their sweet Pups, Millie and Riggs. Each had their namesake on a signature craft cocktail that guests sipped on throughout the evening. The Champagne inspired Millie and the Bourbon inspired Riggs.

Lauren's mom Shari, surprised her with the most amazing wedding day gift! A live painter to capture Lauren + Ben's first dance, the end result I am sure is not front and center in their living room!

One last little treat for guests. TWO southern delicacies, Krispey Kreme doughnuts AND Chick-fil-A sandwiches. Guests were thrilled. I can think of a better night cap than that!