I was able to first meet with Jillian via FaceTime after having Alivia and still being on maternity leave. Right away I could tell she has a kind heart and such a loving personality. After chatting about Jillian and Eric’s wedding vision I could tell this was going to a great wedding! Barn of Chapel Hill is such a special venue. There are so many different aspects that related so much to Jillian and Eric’s everyday lives. One of the most unique aspects included the fact that they share the love of honeybees! Both the Barn of Chapel Hill and the new Mr. and Mrs. have honey bee farms on their property. Fast forward almost a year later we were sitting in the Barn of Chapel Hill applauding Jillian and Eric’s first dance practice during their final walkthrough. This is one of the reasons it is important to have final walkthroughs. The couple, venue staff and I get to go through all of the details and truly envision all of your wedding plans! This also created so much excitement for their big day!

Jillian and Eric’s wedding day was on a HOT May day. But we were thankful for clear blue skies to make sure their outdoor patio ceremony was absolutely perfect! Wild Flora Farm rocked out all of the beautiful florals including the most gorgeous pergola I have ever seen! The couple incorporated their cute and loving pup throughout their day - including the first look and bridal party processional! After the ceremony guests were greeted with passed appetizers and cocktails by Cook Shack Catering while listening to the beautiful Arioso Strings musicians. Kasey Smith with Kasey Smith Creative was able to rock out some awesome bridal party and family photographs in front of the gorgeous and timeless barn doors. After cocktail hour family and friends were welcomed inside the Barn to enjoy Jillian and Eric’s dance moves followed by dinner and cake cutting. Frank with Bunn DJ Company opened up the dance floor and kept the tunes coming all night long!

I mentioned earlier that Jillian and Eric run a honeybee farm on their own property. Last year their hives produced the super rare “Purple Honey.” The most perfect favor was created from this “purple honey” and guests were able to take home their own personal jar to enjoy! I truly love this idea and created such a special memory. Jillian and Eric ended their evening with a sparkler exit out of the barn doors.

Thank you so much Jillian and Eric for all of the laughs and sweet memories during your planning process. I will always cherish you both as a couple and wish you both nothing but greatness and love! Please continue to keep in touch :)

xo Alexia