Among all of the weddings we see, the words of some couples stand out, and even give us a lesson in love. Today we are sharing a lovely indoor garden wedding that took place last spring at The Atrium, in the heart of downtown Wilmington, NC.
During the spring of 2011, Matt and Preston were both employed at Easter Seals UCP in Wilmington, working with children with special needs. This was lucky for them, because two of their youngster clients brought them together… or at least gave Matt an excuse to introduce himself to his future bride. When he spotted a lovely lady accompanying a child he’d previously worked with on a spring outing at Ogden Park, he said hello. Encounters at the park blossomed into dates, and they spent a summer inseparable. When Preston moved to Greensboro for school that fall, Matt called his mother to tell her he had met his wife. He was right. The pair fostered a long distance relationship until they could reunite in Wilmington to start their life in marriage. When it came time to ask Preston to spend the rest of her life with Matt, he knew he had to return to that fateful bench where he first laid eyes on the love of his life. And so, on a cool autumn day they returned to Ogden Park and took a walk around the lake, and when they got to that bench, the rest of their lives began.
Matt and Preston have a beautiful understanding of marriage that is often not developed until years in! They told us, “We believe that marriage is a commitment and that it requires work. It means mutual, creating trust and safety, sharing joy and sorrow, and making space for both individual growth and growth together. We share a desire to have a personal and positive impact on others.”
It was easy for Preston and Matt to choose The Atrium as their wedding venue. Nestled in downtown Wilmington, The Atrium features an open-air courtyard which is used for the ceremony and reception space. This secret garden vibe was love at first site for this couple, and reminiscent of their own love story, which began in that park. They were able to utilize the lush greenery that grows along the wall as their ceremony backdrop, and play on that natural beauty for the wedding details and décor.
Preston noted that some of her bridesmaids have been lifelong friends, since age 2 and 4. Matt shared that one of the most important memories of this day was having his groomsman who is battling lymphoma make it to the wedding to celebrate with them. 
A gray and coral color palette was perfect for the spring affair. Elegant florals sat atop lace table runners atop farm tables and rustic woods, to capitalize on the natural look.
Preston shared that her florist, Fiore Fine Flowers, was “beyond incredible.” She said that owner Chelsea “took extra time to understand our vision and each detail was executed to perfection!” The most exquisite detail was the incredible floral chandelier!
Preston’s engagement ring is extra personal because the diamond was her Grandmother’s. They added the sapphire into a modern setting.
The bride and groom shared that their photographer, Erin Costa Photography, was “has an amazing talent for capturing all emotions felt, while creating a fun atmosphere.”
These newly weds reside in Wilmington, NC. Preston is a speech-language pathologist and Matt is an elementary school teacher.
SB&G Preferred Vendors
Photographer: Erin Costa Photography | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Kirribilla from Bella Bridesmaids | Florist: Fiore Fine Flowers
Full Vendor List:
Ceremony & Reception: The Atrium by Ligon Flynn | Minister: Han Hills | Caterer: Middle of the Island | Bridal Gown: from a Brides Against Breast Cancer Event, Oleg Cassini wedding dress | Men’s Formalwear: Men’s Wearhouse | Cake: One Belle Bakery | Stationer: Wouldn’t It Be Lovely | Musicians: DJ Brian Hood & saxophonist Benny Hill | Party Rentals: L&L party rentals | Lighting: High Performance Lighting | Transportation: Event Shuttle Service | Guest Accommodations: Courtyard Marriott | Hair & Makeup for Wedding Party: Adrianne Lugo
