So it’s official…I have fallen in love with the High Country of North Carolina. And it came about all because of a very special young woman named Lizzie. I first met Lizzie in her first photography class when I taught at a high school in Bealeton, Virginia. Lizzie’s sweet spirit and creative talents were clearly present from the beginning. It was a joy to see her grow in her abilities which included caring for animals, soccer, and of course, photography. So when she tore her ACL her junior year, it was heartbreaking. But since then, this tough cookie has persevered time and again through three surgeries, college and planning a wedding!
At first I wasn’t quite sure why she wanted to go to Appalachian State University for college…I knew the school sounded like a great fit for her, but I also knew how close she was with her family and it seemed so far from home. But Lizzie has never been less than determined. And now that I have seen the area, I can see why she fell in love with it. But there is someone else she fell in love with while there as well.
Lizzie and Josh’s first meeting happened while they were competing against each other during an indoor pick up soccer match where they both noticed each other but were never introduced. They didn’t cross paths for quite some time again until Josh became roommates with one of Lizzie’s friends. They recognized each other, began talking and soon became friends. In October of 2011, they began dating. The Fall was the perfect time for them as they spent a lot of time outside enjoying each other’s company.
When it came time for Lizzie to graduate the next year, she moved back to Virginia to look for a job, while Josh finished his degree. Josh planned to ask Lizzie to marry him while they were on a hiatus in Las Vegas but almost didn’t make it as he and his entire family was sick with a virus. But he also persevered and the two were able to enjoy the vacation and enjoying walking along the strange and fascinating city streets together. After a quick dinner and a night full of fun and spontaneity, Josh asked Lizzie to marry him over a bottle of champagne with the gorgeous city lit up behind them. Of course, she said, “yes!”
So you can imagine how excited I was when Lizzie asked me to photograph their engagement session. We had so much fun on private property owned by her close family friends. About two years later it was time for the wedding and I found myself traveling with second shooter, Leah of Feather and Oak Photography down to North Carolina.
Photographing a former student’s wedding is a joy that leaves you speechless. But I will say that the incredible warmth of not only one of the most beautiful places in the country, but also of Lizzie’s family, friends and the venue owners made the wedding day spectacular. Even bouts of pouring rain couldn’t put a damper on the day. And every time we needed a bit of sun, God provided it!
Truly these two had such a special day to tie the knot. The officiant, Sandra Possman of High Country Ministers brought these two together at The Lily Patch Farm’s wooden pavilion under a sunny sky. We had just finished portraits of the bride with a giant beach umbrella attached to one of my lighting stands while it poured and the girls stood under the pavilion not long before the ceremony. So to have a bit of a clearing for the ceremony itself was a blessing. After the joining of their lives became official, Josh, Lizzy, Leah and I took advantage of the rolling mountains and pastural backdrop the Lily Patch has to offer with portraits on one of the highest hills. Lizzie was stunning in a Justin Alexander gown with beaded comfy shoes by Toms and Josh was the dapper gentleman with a vest that matched the florals made by none other than Lizzie herself!!
And then came the reception catered by the fabulous Reid’s Catering! A family style dinner with attentive service was enjoyed by all atop rustic farm tables from Mountain Craft Rental…beautifully decorated with grandma’s china and fresh wildflowers. The flowers, bouquets and boutonnieres were stunning thanks to Shady Grove Gardens and the coordinating cake was provided by Hallmark Cakes. Seriously I can’t say enough about every little detail…even the oriental rugs lining the floor! And did you see Lizzie’s flower comb also made by Shady Grove Gardens?!
The night concluded with music and dancing provided by none other than Lizzie’s dad and his band, The Heavy Country Band under the wooden pavilion. Leah and I were sad to say goodbye, but enjoyed the ride back to our inn and then back home the next day. Truly it was so beautiful! And the photographs will always remind me of the day one of my most determined, soft-spoken but strong students married the love of her life. What a gorgeous couple they make!
And in the same manner as which they first met, Lizzie and Josh now work at competing Physical Therapy Clinics in Jacksonville, North Carolina while living together as newlywed! Congratulations Lizzie and Josh!! It has been an honor to serve you!
Venue: The Lily Patch Farm
Florals: Shady Grove Gardens
Dress: Justin Alexander
Mens’ Vests: Lizzie Prosser Eustis
Officiant: Sandra Possman, High Country Ministers
Cake: Hallmark Cakes
Catering: Reid’s Catering
Farm Table Rentals: Mountain Craft Rental
Alcohol Provider: Grandfather Mountain Winery
Music: The Heavy Country Band
Hair and Make Up: Bride and Bridesmaids
Second Shooter: Leah of Feather and Oak Photography
