Lauren and Matt met while out with friends in uptown Charlotte one February night in 2011. They had their first date the following week. Lauren says she knew quickly that Matt was one of the good ones. They fell in love over long hikes, romantic dinners and numerous trips together. These two LOVE to travel. As their new found love turned to talks of marriage, or “the merger” as they began to jokingly refer to it, Lauren said she might enjoy a proposal in a remote location, far away from cell phones and computers, so she could spend the night enjoying the occasion rather than feeling the need to share the news with friends and family. That could wait. Lauren has never been much of a phone talker anyway, always preferring an in-person connection.
On March 31, 2012 Lauren and Matt ventured to Mt. Mitchell for a camping weekend with Lauren’s pup, Minnie, in tow. During the long hike in, so long that sweet Minnie had to be carried part of the way, Lauren noticed that Matt was not quite himself. She was suspicious. After finally sparking a campfire in the windy conditions, Matt asked Lauren to stand up for a minute. Still on his knees from starting the fire, Matt began to pull a box out of his pocket but, before he could say anything, Lauren blurted out an enthusiastic “Yes!” With Minnie still in her arms from the hike in, Lauren gave Matt a huge hug and a kiss. Lauren spent most of the night keeping Matt awake in the tent, shining a flashlight at her ring finger and pleading with Matt to tell her his proposal plan again and again–she felt terrible for cutting him off by saying “Yes!” too early. The next day on the ride home, Lauren texted and called everyone to share the happy news–half of them didn’t believe her since it was April Fools Day.
Lauren and Matt made it official on a chilly day this past February in an intimate ceremony at Myers Park Presbyterian Church followed by a reception at Carmel Country Club. Lauren had her mother’s wedding dress re-crafted for the occasion, resulting in one of the most uniquely beautiful dresses I have ever had the pleasure of photographing. She also incorporated part of her grandmother’s satin gown as a button-up wrap around her wedding bouquet–I was in detail heaven. From the touching family wedding photos on the welcome table to the AH-mazing raw bar, it was quite the celebration.
Lauren and Matt, I loved getting to know you better. I have no doubt that you two are in it for the long haul. I’m so delighted that I was able to play a part in your story and I look forward to witnessing the many joyous moments that lie ahead for you.
Ceremony location: Myers Park Presbyterian Church
Reception location: Carmel Country Club
Hair and Make-up: Thai Prak of Salon P
Florist: Jay of In Bloom
Cake and Catering: Carmel Country Club
Band: Phase Band
Transportation: Rose
The Dress: Lauren had her mother’s dress re-designed
Suits: The fellas wore their own suits
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