Kelly & Chris

The Cotton Room | Durham, North Carolina

December 9, 2022

Kelly and Chris tied the knot at The Cotton Room in Durham, North Carolina. They met while working at the same company and grew a friendship, leading to Kelly visiting Chris, who lived in Texas. While there, Chris asked Kelly out on their first official date leading to their long-distance relationship. Chris knew Kelly was the one. So, he proposed to her at Navy Pier while on a friend’s trip visiting Chicago in December 2021. Kelly said YES!

Walking in a Christmas Wonderland

Kelly and Chris emphasized how important it was to work as a team when planning their wedding. Kelly’s favorite time of the year is Christmas. So, it was only fitting for her to choose a Christmas wedding that would reflect happy childhood memories and traditions. Kelly and Chris wanted the atmosphere to feel magical, loving, and with plenty of space to dance the night away. Looking for the perfect venue, they chose The Cotton Room for its exposed brick aesthetic, generous natural lighting, and spacious reception venue. They went with evergreen and white for the color palette to compliment the Christmas-inspired decor. 

Wedding Day at The Cotton Room

Kelly and Chris got ready inside the suites at The Cotton Room. Since they wanted to avoid seeing each other beforehand, they opted for a first touch. The first touch was just as special for them as they held each other’s hands and read their intimate letters. Shortly after, the ceremony started, and Christmas trees and love from guests filled the room. Kelly walked down the aisle in a stunning lace bridal gown, escorted by her Uncle, and the first look between her and Chris at the alter was priceless.

The sun began to set after the ceremony, so I took the newlyweds, family, and bridal party outdoors for photos. While outdoors, the evergreen strapless bridal dresses looked beautiful alongside The Cotton Rooms’ red brick, and Kelly Chris captured beautiful photos as the sunset. When heading into the reception, detailed gold ornaments filled the ceiling, and each table featured white roses, eucalyptus, and Christmas berry plants. All the guests danced the night away, and Kelly and Chris ended their wedding with a beautiful sparkler exit.

I had the pleasure of meeting Kelly through her cousin, whose wedding I photographed. Their wedding was a joy to attend and beautiful to capture. If you are searching for a wedding photographer for your special day, I would love to be a part of it. Click here, and let’s schedule a time to discuss the details. 

VENDORS:

Wedding Planner: Cotton Room Coordinator (Devin Bilyk)

Ceremony Venue: The Cotton Room

Reception Venue: The Cotton Room

Hair and Makeup: Mena Garcia

Florist: Janet Mills

Dress Designer: White of Raleigh

Groom: Men’s Warehouse

Catering: The Cotton Room

Wedding Party Outfits: Bella Bridesmaid

Invitations: Zazzle