Shefa & Louis are classic. Everything about their wedding decor, style, and the way they interact feels timeless, effortless, and downright beautiful. I was only lucky enough to meet them two months before their wedding, at the recommendation of their photographer (and my sweet friend) Danielle. I was impressed right off the bat by their down to earth, realistic view of a wedding, and how they wanted beautiful details but weren’t focused on them. Every conversation we had was about how they were just so ready to be married and celebrate with all their friends.
Shefa & Louis choose to be married at Market Hall in Raleigh, which set the stage for a very elegant downtown celebration. Shefa and her bridesmaids, including her three sisters, got ready at the venue, while the guys hung out off site for a pre-celebration. Both treated their bridal party to custom drink ware (we totally approve), and the early afternoon set the stage for a day filled with laughter.
Before the festivities officially began, Shefa & Louis had a tear-filled first look in the cobblestone streets, and some seriously gorgeous couples portraits and wedding party photos were captured.
Then, it was time for the ceremony. With Shefa tucked away, we lined up the wedding party and family, with the groom starting off the procession. The room was still and quiet with anticipation, when all of a sudden a yell rang out followed by laughter and cheers as “Un Poco Loco” from Coco began playing for the groom’s entrance. The wedding party followed him out, and then it was just Shefa and I. With the curtains closed, she started to tear up and gave me a huge smile as “All of Me” by John Legend started to play. A deep breath later, she was walking herself down the aisle, smiling brightly at her groom.
With the vows complete, guests were ushered into the lobby space, the couple ran off through downtown for more photos, and the caterers and I set out to flip the hall. Wine-colored linen napkins, flatware and water goblets created clean, elegant place settings, while the centerpieces included black lanterns, wooden flowers and succulents, geometric table numbers and silk flower petals. The welcome table was adorned with an Instax camera and guest book, cards and gifts signs, and fun escort cards that included a bottle opener. The sweetheart table included an added bit of decor that was truly special – heirloom wine goblets featuring the groom’s family crest, which had been passed down for 3 generations!
As the evening progressed, Louis was all about creating a great party atmosphere, so we took care of all the formal elements immediately after dinner. The toasts had guests nearly falling out of their seats with laughter, and then the cake was cut, the bouquet was tossed, and the couple enjoyed their first dance to “Wicked Games” by Chris Isaak (such a cool song choice). Then it was open dance floor, open bar, and a big party until the sparkler sendoff at the end of the night.
The Vendors:
Venue: Market Hall, Raleigh, NC
Wedding Coordinator: Beauty & the Budget Events
Photographer: Danielle Riley Photography
Caterer + Bar: Market Hall
Baker: Groovy Duck Bakery
Florist: DIY
Officiant: Justin Reynolds (brother in law)
DJ: Cody Daniel
Rentals: CE Rentals
Hair & Makeup: Junction Salon & Bar
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“Stephanie was amazing! We highly recommend using her for your big day plans. She truly was thorough in the planning and coordination. We met up multiple times or even did a chat here and there. It help minimize a lot of extra unnecessary stress. On the day of she was on time (early) with her assistant and I didn’t even have to lift a finger (which was huge)! Even after the big day she kept a good communication on what’s next to come and to expect. We highly recommend beauty and budget events for coordinating your big day! – Shefa & Louis, Coordination