Timeless Traditions and Contemporary Luxury at Chapel Hill’s Carolina Inn
The Carolina Inn has stood as a symbol of Southern hospitality since opening its doors on the edge of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill campus in 1924. The interior common areas and guest rooms have undergone a transformation in commemoration of its centennial, but decades of Tar Heel stories can still be felt in its hallways, inviting modern couples to add their wedding memories to the venue’s rich history.
Classic Black-and-White Wedding Details at The Carolina Inn
The inn’s meticulously preserved Georgian-style architecture evokes a sense of quiet grandeur that transports treasured guests to a bygone era. Towering oaks flank the sprawling brick building and provide a warm contrast to the white-columned façade, a perfect backdrop for a timelessly elegant ceremony with modern, masculine touches for models and real-life spouses Ahmad Alston-Simpson and Julius Alston-Simpson.
The inn’s iconic checkered tile floor inspired the color palette. “We used black and white, focusing on texture, pattern and luxurious materials instead of color,” says Heart of NC Weddings Editorial Shoot Creative Director Amy Plant-Perdue. “My favorite elements were the blind embossing on the paper products by Ashley Triggiano and the all-white wedding party dresses from Bella Bridesmaids Raleigh.”
The grooms were likewise outfitted in coordinating white jackets from Bernard’s Formalwear. The Wild Flora Flowers team followed suit, keeping to a monochromatic palette that incorporated branches into the ceremony florals, resulting in a bold yet elegant backdrop.
Simplicity and leaning into nature were key to balancing The Carolina Inn’s detailed features. Stepping through the inn’s doors, guests are greeted by a breathtaking foyer adorned with crystal chandeliers and polished floors; beyond, the enchanting Anne Hill Courtyard – one of the venue’s most cherished features – offers an inviting ceremony space.
Lush greenery embraces the courtyard, providing a natural canopy for open-air vows. The fragrance of blooming flowers mingles with the gentle rustle of leaves. As sentiments are exchanged beneath a Carolina blue sky, photos by Joe Payne Photography capture an undeniable sense that nature itself is part of the celebrations.
A formal reception takes shape in the Bryan Courtyard, with cream and white linens, tabletop rentals and chairs from American Party Rentals. Each guest is treated to a personal miniature cake by Ruth Drennan Cakes at their place setting. “The idea was the guests would get to participate in the tradition of cake cutting by cutting their own individual cake while the grooms cut their cake,” Amy says. “Another fun way to make your wedding your own!”
“I’m thrilled when my clients want individual cakes,” says Ruth Drennan. “For this styled wedding, I was inspired by the beautiful venue and wanted to create both display and individual cakes that stood out, but didn’t compete with the decor. Simple doesn’t mean boring.”
Balancing these kind of decor elements with the venue’s features is necessary for a timeless look. “To achieve this, you don’t want to lean too far into current trends or a particular theme,” Amy says. “I am always trying to balance organic with clean lines, romantic with modern, for a look that feels classic and current all at the same time.”
Timeless Reception Spaces at The Carolina Inn
As day turns to night, the celebration continues. The inn offers a selection of elegantly appointed private event spaces, such as the Old Well Ballroom, with its exquisite wood paneling and graceful chandeliers that exude an air of sophistication fitting for a stunning reception. The Hill Ballroom provides an opulent backdrop for a grand celebration for larger guest lists.
As the evening draws to a close, the wedding party wishes the couple well under a shower of white rose petals, their hearts filled with the magic of the day. For couples seeking a wedding venue that seamlessly blends history, elegance and contemporary luxury, The Carolina Inn stands as the quintessential choice. – by Morgan Cartier Weston | Styled by Amy Plant-Purdue
