A Sentimental Vow Renewal Marks 40 Years of Heart of NC Weddings Magazine
August sun bathed The Upchurch’s historic main house in a warm glow, setting the scene for a celebration of love and longevity. To honor Heart of NC Weddings magazine’s 40th anniversary, we reimagined the milestone through a styled vow renewal. The event honored the enduring beauty of commitment while weaving in the talents of some of the Triangle’s equally dependable wedding professionals.
The Cary venue offers endless charm. Its white-columned porch, sprawling lawns and airy interiors provided an idyllic backdrop to commemorate 40 years of our publication.
Ballet Pink and Yellow Florals Inspired by 1980s Wedding Colors
Romantic, garden-inspired arrangements from Heritage Floral Design included lush butter yellow and ballet pink roses that nodded to couple Robin Marlow and Don Marlow’s 1986 wedding colors. The palette felt both classic and contemporary thanks to creative additions like sprigs of burgundy Japanese maple leaves.
Vow Renewal Fashion Honors Bridal Looks of the Past
Robin and her daughter, Brandi Davis, dazzled in gowns from Bella Bridesmaids Raleigh. Robin’s look was complemented by bespoke accessories from Be Everthine, including a dramatic veil and a chic bridal hat inspired by her original ’80s bridal ensemble. Her look was finished with radiant hair and makeup by The Bardot.
Don and his son-in-law, Zach Davis, were equally dashing in classic gray three-piece suits from Bernard’s Formalwear. Crisp lines, polished details and pink neckties created a striking balance with Robin’s gown. Grandson Declan Davis stole the show with a winning smile throughout the day.
Personalized Vow Renewal Ceremony
The couple’s heartfelt vow renewal was officiated by the Rev. Nikki Whitt Belch of Personal Ceremonies of North Carolina. Harpist Sarah Cavaiani of Hummingbird Harmonies created a soundtrack that elevated the emotional weight of the moment.
“Vow renewals hold a special kind of beauty; there’s a depth to them that only years of love, life and commitment can create,” Nikki says. “My approach is to honor that shared history while weaving in the couple’s present and future, creating a ceremony that celebrates both where they’ve been and where they’re still going, together.”
A Sophisticated Celebration Honors Decades of Love
The celebration continued with sophisticated bites by Rocky Top Catering, with charcuterie and sweet tea reflecting both Southern hospitality and the special occasion. At the head table in The Upchurch’s modern, 4,200-square-foot Conservatory, linens, chairs and tableware from Curated Events Raleigh add texture and refinement to the scene. Elegant stationery, menus and signage by Beau Papiere tied the day together with soft, scripted fonts and scrolling edges.
The sweet finale came in the form of a stunning cake by The Mad Hatter’s Cafe & Bakeshop. Its delicate artistry mirrored the romantic aesthetic of the day, continuing the yellow floral theme against a sleek tiered base that feels fresh for 2026.
Documenting a Milestone Through Photography and Film
Every smile, detail and golden-hued moment was captured by Whitney Chase and Colby Chase, the husband-and-wife duo behind The Chase Collective, whose lenses preserved the warmth and joy of the occasion.
Anniversaries are more than milestones; they are opportunities to pause, reflect and rejoice. Surrounded by thoughtful design and a skilled team, this vow renewal was both a tribute to four decades of publishing Heart of NC Weddings and a timeless inspiration for couples looking to honor their own journeys of love.
