It’s Wedding Feature Wednesday at Southern Bride & Groom! Today we’re excited to share Mark and Richard’s classy black and white wedding at the University Club in Durham, NC.
Mark and Richard met in 1994 in Buffalo, NY, and have been together for 21 years! In 2000, they went to Vermont to have a Civil Union after hearing news on the radio that same-sex marriage had been legalized there. They arranged an officiant, avenue, and rings in one day, then drove through the night to reach a courthouse in Vermont to get the license and have a Civil Union ceremony. Even though it was not recognized as legal outside of Vermont, it was something that was very meaningful to them. Still, they anxiously waited for the day to come when they could be legally married here in North Carolina.
Those who live in Durham, NC, are familiar with the University Tower building – a great beacon of shimmering glass that rises high above the other buildings in the area. When Mark and Richard started looking for an innovative venue with casual elegance and great food, it became clear right away that this would be the right place for their elegant black, white and sparkling wedding.
The wedding consultant and minister, James Strach, is a long-time friend of both grooms. Close friends and family joined the party high up in the tower where crystal and glass shined not only on the outside, but also inside the venue from the chandelier to the centerpieces to the cake table. Floral Dimensions added to the ambience with white flowers and stunning tall branch centerpieces.
In the photos below, Dara Blakeley Photography showcases her artistic vision, telling the story of this classy wedding that celebrates the long-lasting love of an amazing couple.
VENUE & CATERER University Club | WEDDING CONSULTANT & MINISTER James Strach | PHOTOGRAPHER Dara Blakeley Photography | CAKE Miel Bon Bons | MUSIC Save the Date Music (Brian Megilligan) | FLOWERS Floral Dimensions | LINENS American Party Rentals
