Leah & Ben

Leah and Ben met in law school and competed against one another in various debate tournaments. They eventually realized they made better teammates than adversaries, both in their professional and personal lives, and decided to see where their relationship would lead. Thank goodness they took that chance on love because it led them down the aisle! Their beautiful outdoor NC wedding at Sarah P. Duke Gardens were both soft yet vibrant with tiffany blue, coral and peach accents.

Leah shared that she is scared of places that are ” Cold, dark and remote.” Ben, knowing these things, brought her to a beautiful and remote forested area where they hiked to a beautiful view. As the sun was setting he said, “no matter where we were, whatever difficulties and discomforts we faced. I could always trust him to be there for me, keep me safe and help me find happiness,” the bride recollected. He proposed right there so he could keep his promised and she was more than happy to say yes!

The venue was a no brainer for them as they both loved the idea of being outdoors and remembered loving the gardens when they both attended Duke. Leah said that picking the venue was the only easily chosen aspect of the wedding and each decision afterwards was painstakingly chosen with the advice and guidance from their wedding planner, Amanda Scott of A Swanky Affair.

Getting Ready at The King’s Daughters Inn

Bride in Monique Lhullier gown at Duke Gardens Casey Rose_1

Bride with Veil and bouquet by Tre Bella Casey Rose_1

Bride getting ready with bridesmaids in teal gowns Casey Rose_1

Bridal bouquet by Tre Bella Flowers Casey Rose_1

Bride in Monique Lhullier strapless gown at Duke Gardens Casey Rose_1

The bridesmaid’s were in Tiffany Blue long gowns and Tre Bella Flowers created gorgeous spring bouquets with accenting colors of peaches and corals to go with the overall theme of the couple’s outdoor ceremony. Leah said that Tre Bella was “a very sweet and knowledgable vendor!”

The couple chose Casey Rose Photography for their wedding day. Leah said, “Casey is an amazing photographer. She is wonderfully talented, incredible patient and also an amazing person.”

When asked what her favorite memory was from the wedding day Leah shared, “holding my husband’s hands in front of the alter, seeing how happy he was and thinking ‘this is exactly where I want to be and exactly where I am meant to be.’ I made a promise to myself to remember that moment.”

Outdoor NC Wedding Ceremony

Bride and Groom first look at Duke Gardens Casey Rose_1

Bride and Groom First Kiss under Arbor at Duke Gardens Casey Rose_1

Bride and Groom hold hands at Duke Gardens Casey Rose_1

Outdoor Wedding Reception at Duke Gardens

The outdoor reception was simple and soft with accents of their wedding colors throughout the florals on the rectangle tables and rentals by Party Reflections and stunning geometric chandeliers from Get Lit. The scene created a romantic and beautiful vision for the couple to celebrate with their loved ones.