Claire and Bryan were originally planning to elope but then found a way to have the kind of intimate, simple wedding they wanted. Friends and family were greatly relieved and crossed distances to be there.

They met through a movie-like chain of events: mutual friend had a wedding in Israel; they both expected not to make it; each made it happen; their friend connected them to travel together; they made a trip of it; spent a couple weeks exploring before the wedding; fell for each other by the end of the trip; he lived in LA; she lived in NC; they made it work; and now they're both in Durham!

Getting ready, cocktails, and the ceremony were in the penthouse and its private roof space at The Durham.

Moments leading up to their wedding and the gathering of friends and family...

Claire and Bryan enjoyed cocktails with guests, giving friends and family time to meet and mingle before stepping outside for the ceremony.

It was open, casual, and relaxed, with an emphasis placed on quality time with their people. 

While friends and family stepped outside, gathering around the bride and groom, nieces and nephews scattered flower petals at their feet. A longtime friend of Bryan's led the ceremony.

Their first sunset, married!

Beyond the drinks and delicious food at their reception, the toasts for Claire and Bryan were truly exceptional, reflecting the caliber of these two and their people.

At one point, one of the bride's close friends played a voicemail Claire had left right after meeting Bryan. It seemed to be a total surprise that her friend had even saved it! That may have been my favorite moment.

It was a warm, celebratory evening. Many sweet memories and sentiments shared. 

Wedding Timeline | February 10, 2017

2-4pm: Getting ready
4-5pm: Pre-wedding photos
5-5:30pm: Cocktails
5:30-5:50pm: Ceremony
5:50-6:15pm: Sunset photos
6:15-10:30pm: Reception

Vendors

Dress: BHLDN
Flowers: Pine State Flowers
Venue/food: The Durham Hotel
Hair: Kyra Dorman
Makeup: Lynette Cox
Bride's ring: Creative Metalsmiths
Groom's suit: Topman
Groom's tie: The Tie Bar
Wedding assistant: Events by La Fete
Bride's necklace: an Egyptian antique, vendor a mystery