Alicia and Eric’s Asheville Adventure Elopement

Adventure elopements are such a fun way to celebrate a couple's love and start off their marriage with a bang! I got to capture Alicia and Eric's intimate moment. We met at the base of The Chimneys, an enjoyable intermediate hike that takes roughly 20 minutes to reach the initial overlook. It took us a bit longer as we stopped to explore our surroundings and take photos of the small moments along the way. We reached the overlook and the couple took some time to breathe in the gorgeous view of the Blue Ridge mountains. I played "A Thousand Years" for them as they did their first dance out the edge. It was perfect. They sat side by side, relishing the sunset, just before we descended the mountain in the dwindling twilight.

Megan and Travis’s Pregnancy Announcement

In life, some friendships are more than friendships; they become like family. For me, Megan is not just a friend; she's a sister. Our shared journey has weathered the sands of time, and as Megan and Travis step into a new chapter of their lives, the love they share radiates with an infectious joy.

My bond with Megan stretches back further than I can count the years. When she introduced me to Travis, it wasn't just the chemistry between them that caught my eye; it was the deeper connection, the unspoken promises, and the profound understanding that they had found something truly special. I couldn't have been happier as she found her forever in Travis.

As their love deepened, so did their dreams. The desire for a family, and the sound of little feet echoing through their home – these dreams became the anchors of their shared adventure. Megan and Travis embarked on the path to parenthood with hope, patience, and an unwavering commitment to building a future together.

After years spent in Tennessee, Megan and Travis made the decision to return to North Carolina, where they both are from. It wasn't just a change of location; it was a return to the embrace of friends and family who had stood as strong supporters throughout their path. The move was a conscious step toward creating a life where their children could be surrounded by love and familiarity.

In the heart of Charlotte, Megan and Travis found their sanctuary—a new home that symbolized the promises of the future. It was in this space that we captured the magic of what will come. The joy of expecting not one but two little surprises filled the air as we created a series of photographs, announcing their impending parenthood and showcasing the beauty of their new abode.

As a friend and documenter of life's precious moments, I feel privileged to witness Megan's journey into motherhood. The anticipation of meeting their sweet little girls is matched only by the excitement of immortalizing the moments that will become treasured memories. In Megan and Travis' story, love, home, and the joy of expanding their family weave together, creating a narrative that resonates with warmth and inspiration. Here's to the next chapter and the abundance of love that awaits this beautiful family.

Checklist for your Perfect Elopement

Eloping has become a popular choice for couples seeking an intimate and personalized way to celebrate their love. With the freedom to focus on each other and create a day that truly reflects your relationship, elopements offer a unique and memorable experience. To ensure your elopement goes off without a hitch, we've put together the ultimate elopement planning checklist. Whether you're exchanging vows on a mountaintop, by the beach, or in a cozy little chapel, this checklist will guide you through the essentials of planning your dream elopement. I always help my couples get everything in check to insure that their day is perfect!!

1. Define Your Vision: Start by envisioning the atmosphere, location, and overall vibe you want for your elopement. Are you drawn to a rustic, bohemian setting, or do you picture an elegant and minimalist ceremony? Defining your vision will serve as the foundation for all your planning decisions.

2. Choose the Perfect Location: Select a location that holds meaning for both of you. Whether it's a place you've always dreamed of visiting or a spot with sentimental value, the right location sets the tone for your special day. The Blue ridge mountains in Western North Carolina are a lovely choice.

3. Set a Date: Consider the time of year, weather, and any seasonal factors that might impact your chosen location. Keep in mind that some popular elopement destinations may require advance booking.

4. Create a Guest List: One of the perks of eloping is keeping the guest list small. Decide if you want any close friends or family members present to witness your vows.

5. Legalities and Permits: Research the legal requirements for getting married in your chosen location. Obtain any necessary permits or licenses well in advance.

6. Find the Perfect Outfits: Select attire that complements your chosen location and reflects your personal style. Don't forget comfortable shoes, especially if you're exploring outdoor or uneven terrain.

7. Photography and Videography: Capture every moment of your elopement with professional photography and/or videography. These memories will be cherished for a lifetime. I personally offer many different options for photography from 2-8 hours of coverage to find what’s right for you, with the option to add video.

8. Plan the Ceremony: Design a ceremony that resonates with you. Write your own vows, choose meaningful readings, and decide on any rituals or symbolic gestures you want to include.

9. Arrange Transportation and Accommodation: Book your travel, transportation, and accommodation well ahead of time, especially if you're eloping in a remote location.

10. Decor and Details: Enhance your chosen location with thoughtful decorations that align with your vision. Consider elements like flowers, arches, candles, or even small keepsakes.

11. Plan for Celebratory Meals: Whether it's a picnic, a reservation at a local restaurant, or a private chef, decide how you want to celebrate with a special meal.

12. Obtain Rings and Marriage License: Don't forget the rings! Also, ensure you have your marriage license ready and know the process for signing and filing it.

13. Prepare for Changing Weather: If your elopement is outdoors, have a backup plan in case of inclement weather. Tents, umbrellas, or indoor options can save the day.

14. Beauty and Grooming: Schedule hair, makeup, and grooming appointments to look your best on your big day.

15. Relax and Enjoy: On the day of your elopement, take a deep breath, savor every moment, and let the joy of the occasion guide you.

Remember, elopements are about creating a day that's uniquely yours. Use this checklist as a starting point, but feel free to tailor it to your preferences. By planning ahead and staying organized, you'll be well on your way to a magical and unforgettable elopement experience.

Western North Carolina Flower Fields

As the sun gently began its descent towards the horizon, Maddi and I set out to explore the magnificent flower blooms scattered around Morganton. With our cameras in hand, we embraced the warm, golden light that bathed the surroundings, creating an ethereal atmosphere that brought the floral beauty to life. Our adventure was not limited to capturing the blooms in their pristine glory. We seized the opportunity to experiment with new photography techniques, like the mesmerizing swirling blur effect, adding an artistic touch to our shots. Additionally, we delved into the realm of AI technology, discovering new ways to enhance our images with cutting-edge advancements.

Maddi and I have been friends for over 15 years. This deep-rooted friendship provided the perfect foundation for an enjoyable and creative outing. The trust and understanding between us allowed us to freely exchange photography tips and tricks, enriching each other's skills and perspectives. During our photography escapade, I also had the opportunity to share some of my expertise with Maddi, unveiling a glimpse of my unique photography style. This mutual exchange of knowledge fostered an environment of growth and mutual appreciation, where we could learn from each other's experiences.

The result of our impromptu photo shoot was a collection of breathtaking photographs. The evening spent with Maddi, exploring the flower blooms and experimenting with photography techniques and AI technology, was a memorable and gratifying experience. The joy of our shared passion and the warmth of our longstanding friendship blended harmoniously, leaving both of us with a stunning collection of photographs to cherish forever. As we continue our photographic journey, our bond will undoubtedly inspire more captivating tales of creativity and camaraderie.

My Morganton Wedding

In today's blog post, I wanted to do something a little different and share with you a collection of stunning wedding photos taken by Christian Lemons from Fox House Studios. Christian has been a wonderful friend and mentor in my photography journey, allowing me to join her on various wedding shoots and teaching me the ropes. So, when it was my turn to tie the knot with my husband Henry last October, there was no doubt in my mind that I wanted Christian to capture our special day. Our wedding took place at the Morganton Community House, one of my top choices for wedding venues in Morganton. Let me take you on a visual journey through our community-held celebration, where love, friendship, and collaboration played starring roles.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Morganton, the Morganton Community House proved to be an ideal location for our wedding. Not only is it affordable, but the recent remodeling efforts have transformed it into a breathtakingly beautiful space. Its name, "community house," perfectly embodies the spirit of our wedding, as it felt like a celebration hosted by our beloved community. The staff at the venue went above and beyond to ensure that our day was nothing short of magical.

Our wedding was a testament to the power of community. We were fortunate to have our friends and loved ones actively involved in making our day truly special. One of my bridesmaids skillfully styled my hair, while another created a stunning cake and delicate macarons for our dessert table. A group of us came together to design and arrange the beautiful bouquets. The groomsmen pitched in by helping transport the decorations from our home to the community house. We even had a friend act as the MC/DJ for the evening. Henry and his groomsmen took charge of the food the night before by bringing his food truck, "Rotation," to the back of the community house, where they collaborated to prepare our rehearsal dinner. It truly took a village, or rather, a community, to bring our wedding vision to life.

Our wedding day at Morganton Community House was a true celebration of love, friendship, and community spirit. Christian was able to capture the magic and essence of this unforgettable day. The images reflect the joy, camaraderie, and the beauty of our collaborative efforts. It serves as a reminder that weddings are not just about the couple getting married but also about the support, love, and dedication of the community that surrounds them. Our wedding will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and these photographs convey the same warmth and happiness that we experienced on that day.

Congrats Loren

Graduation is a momentous occasion, celebrating years of hard work and dedication. For Loren, this milestone was particularly special as she completed her Master's degree in Epidemiology at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. To memorialize this achievement, we ventured outside the building that had been her academic haven, capturing photographs amidst the overcast weather that added a touch of dark and moody charm.

Loren's graduation from UNC Charlotte was the pinnacle of her academic journey. As she completed her Master's degree in Epidemiology, she demonstrated her commitment to understanding and combating diseases. The building where she attended her classes became the perfect backdrop for our photography session, symbolizing the countless hours spent in pursuit of knowledge and expertise in her field. The photos we captured outside the building served as a visual representation of the dedication and passion Loren poured into her studies.

Despite the academic year drawing to a close, UNC Charlotte's campus still buzzed with life. As we wandered around, capturing Loren's portraits, we encountered students engaged in various activities. Football games, impromptu study groups, and the hustle and bustle of students rushing to class—all showcased the vibrant energy that permeated the campus. This lively atmosphere served as a reminder that even as one chapter ends, the spirit of learning and growth continues to thrive in the hearts of those who call this university home.

Earth Day

This past Earth Day I had the pleasure of photographing an incredible event that celebrated sustainability and eco-consciousness. The event was a grand opening for Foothills Gear Garage and a hard-to-recycle recycling event for Simply Green, held in downtown Morganton at the location of Foothills Gear Garage.

The atmosphere was electric, with several local businesses invited to be a part of the day. The Paper was there, providing information about their outdoor section and fishing, while Little Guatemala was selling delicious coffee and treats. Bad Craft Events provided free beer, adding to the festive vibe.

Foothills Gear Garage is an amazing initiative that supports sustainability by selling gently used outdoor items like bikes, kayaks, backpacks, and clothing. Their goal is to keep these items out of landfills and promote sustainable living in the community. Simply Green's owner, Isaac Crouch, provided a space for people to bring things they needed to recycle for free, including items that are hard to recycle, like electronics, batteries, and Styrofoam. This event was an excellent opportunity for people to dispose of their waste in a responsible and eco-friendly manner.

The event was a huge success, and I was thrilled to be there capturing the magic with my camera. The energy was contagious, and it was evident that everyone involved was passionate about sustainability and making a positive impact on the environment. It was inspiring to see so many people coming together to support these local businesses that are working towards a better future.

As I snapped photos of the smiling faces and the amazing products and services on offer, I couldn't help but feel hopeful for the future. This event was proof that small actions can lead to big changes and that sustainability is achievable with a little effort and a lot of heart.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have photographed this incredible event. Foothills Gear Garage and Simply Green are two amazing businesses that are making a positive impact on our community and the world. It was truly an inspiring and memorable Earth Day celebration, and I look forward to seeing how these businesses continue to grow and promote sustainable living in the future.

The thirtieth year

There are moments in life that hold profound meaning, where time seems to stand still and emotions intertwine with memories. As Raina embarked on the transformative path of turning thirty, we sought to capture the essence of this milestone in a series of photographs. Together, we ventured into a world of ethereal dreams, armed with a mirror, water, and an insatiable desire to create something extraordinary. In a wooded area, where lush grass and moss beckoned, golden hour cast its enchanting light, infusing each frame with a warm, golden glow.

With the mirror in hand, Raina unlocked a gateway to cherished memories and unseen dreams. Its surface, adorned with delicate droplets of water, became a portal through which we embarked on a sentimental odyssey. Each click of the shutter captured fragments of Raina's soul, allowing her to reflect upon her past, embrace her present, and embark upon the journey of her thirties.

As the sun descended, casting its warm golden light, Raina became a luminous muse amidst the idyllic woodland setting. With each passing moment, the interplay of light and shadow painted a tapestry of emotions upon her face. In this ethereal glow, Raina's inner radiance shimmered, basking in the tender embrace of a world painted in warmth and serenity. The lush grass, mossy carpets, and the golden hues of the perfect golden hour served as witnesses to Raina's sentimental celebration, a testament to the beauty and transformative power of embracing a new decade with grace, love, and profound reflection.

Matt and Ly’s Tea Ceremony

As a photographer, I have the privilege of capturing some of life's most important moments. And recently, I had the honor of photographing a Vietnamese tea ceremony for my sister-in-law Ly and her fiancé Matt. The tea ceremony is an important tradition in Vietnamese culture, and it was a joy to see their families come together to celebrate.

The tea ceremony took place in Ly's family home, where her parents and extended family members had worked tirelessly to create a beautiful and meaningful space. Ly wore a traditional Vietnamese outfit, adding to the richness of the ceremony.

As the family gathered around, Ly's parents led the ceremony. They spoke blessings and words of wisdom, emphasizing the importance of family and tradition in their marriage. The couple respectfully served tea to their elders, showing gratitude and appreciation for their love and support.

One of the most striking aspects of the tea ceremony was the reunion of family members who had not seen each other in a long time. The room was filled with laughter, tears, and hugs as relatives caught up and shared stories. It was clear that the tea ceremony had brought the family closer together and reinforced the importance of their cultural traditions.

As a photographer, I was honored to capture the beauty and significance of the Vietnamese tea ceremony. The vibrant colors, intricate details, and deep cultural meaning made it a truly special event. I was particularly touched by the effort and work that Ly's family had put in to create such a memorable day for the couple. It was a reminder that love and family are at the heart of all cultural traditions, and that celebrating these traditions brings us closer together.

Burke County Neighbors

As a photographer, I've had the privilege of working with Burke County Neighbors, a local magazine featuring the people in my community, for over a year. During my time with them, I've met some truly fascinating individuals and had the pleasure of shooting for their cover on multiple occasions. However, while I've loved working with them, I've decided to focus my time on my personal business and pursue my own creative passions.

As my final shoot for the magazine, I had the pleasure of working with Miss Lani Reese, who is currently Miss Morganton and will soon be entering the Miss North Carolina Pageant. Miss Reese was a delight to work with, and her green outfit was simply adorable. It was a fantastic way to wrap up my time with the magazine, and I will always appreciate their support of my work.

Reflecting on my time with Burke County Neighbors, I can't help but think "long live all the mountains we moved, I had the time of my life fighting dragons with you." This phrase perfectly captures the sense of adventure and camaraderie that I experienced while working with the magazine. I will always treasure the memories I made and the amazing people I met along the way.

As I move forward in my photography journey, I'm excited to see where it takes me. While I'm grateful for the opportunities I had with Burke County Neighbors, I'm eager to explore new avenues and challenge myself creatively. I look forward to continuing to capture the beauty and complexity of the world through my lens, and I'm grateful for every experience that has brought me to this point.

I want to express my gratitude to Burke County Neighbors and all of the wonderful people I had the pleasure of working with. Long live all the mountains we moved, and may we continue to pursue our passions with joy and enthusiasm.

Makayla and Andrew

Recently, I had the pleasure of doing an engagement shoot for my long time friends Makayla and Andrew.  We went to local places around downtown Morganton, NC, our hometown.  I was friends with Andrew for a while before he met Makayla, and when he first introduced me to her, I knew she was a keeper.  She can keep up with his jokes and picks on him like he does her.  They are a perfect match.

During the shoot, we all joked and had a great time.  Makayla and Andrew’s silly personalities showed and it made the shoot so much fun.  We started at a local coffee shop where we all have spent many of days. After that, we went outside and got some gorgeous shots of them running in the streets. Finally, we went to a nearby alleyway to capture some stunning photos of them cuddling and laughing. 

Makayla and Andrew were so easy to work with.  Their Chemistry and love for each other made my job effortless.  They trusted me and my vision, and it resulted in some beautiful photos that they will cherish for a lifetime.

Overall, the shoot was a fantastic experience.  It was great to catch up with old friends, and I’m thrilled to have been a part of their journey.  Congratulations, Makayla and Andrew! I can’t wait to see what the future holds for you both.

Brandon and Maggie

For Maggie and Brandon’s engagement shoot, we decided to keep it close to home and shoot at a local coffee shop in downtown Morganton, NC - The Grind Café. The coffee shop provided a cozy and intimate setting for capturing some beautiful indoor shots of the couple.

As we transitioned outside, the rain had just stopped, and the fresh smell of rain added a beautiful touch to our shoot. It was nice to capture their love for each other in our hometown. We took advantage of the beautiful brick walls and unique architecture in the area to create some truly stunning outdoor shots.

The couple was so easy to work with, and their love for each other was evident in every shot we took. It was clear that they were excited about their upcoming wedding and thrilled to share their special moments with each other and the camera.

As we wrapped up the shoot, it was apparent that we had captured some truly magical moments. The love between Maggie and Brandon was captured perfectly in each photo, and the local setting added a special touch that made the shoot even more memorable.

Overall, it was a wonderful experience shooting Maggie and Brandon’s engagement photos, and I am excited to see how their love story unfolds as they move closer to their wedding day.

Savannah and Jeffery

This past fall, I had the pleasure of capturing an incredible day in the western North Carolina mountains. From the moment I arrived in Black Mountain, I knew this was going to be an unforgettable day. The air was crisp, the leaves were changing, and a thick layer of fog hung low, creating an ethereal backdrop that set the scene for a day of adventure and love.

Savannah and Jefferey had decided to blend the best of both worlds, with a mix between a large wedding and an adventure elopement. They started the day getting ready with friends and family in a charming rustic cabin nestled deep in the woods. The space was adorned with candles, greenery, and twinkling lights, creating a romantic atmosphere that felt both intimate and magical.

Before the ceremony, we ventured out into the great outdoors, exploring the rugged landscape of Black Mountain. The adventurous couple braved the fog and chilly air, posing for photos on top of Eagle Rock beneath a canopy of colorful leaves. The connection between Savannah and Jeffery was palpable, and it was a joy to capture their love in such a stunning location.

We made our way to Black Mountain Sanctuary, where they exchanged vows among the trees. I could feel the love and joy radiating from Savannah and Jeffery, and it was an honor to capture it through my lens. They laughed, shed a few tears, and held each other tightly, cherishing every moment of their special day.

As I packed up my gear and said my goodbyes, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to capture Savannah and Jeffery’s special day. It was both grand and intimate, adventurous and romantic, and filled with so much love. It was truly an honor to be a part of such a beautiful love story.

Flowers

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, this photoshoot was all about celebrating what matters most: love. In this case, it was self-love for my beautiful friend Breanna. We used her favorite flowers in a setting where she felt comfortable, and then the magic happened. The idea to pose with only a bouquet in front of her chest represented the strength in her femininity, and as the shoot went on I watched her become empowered to embrace her beauty with confidence. These photos were her Valentine’s gift to herself, but the real gift is the reminder she now has of how lovely she is. In the words of Blake Lively, “The most beautiful thing you can wear is confidence.” Happy Valentine’s Day, Breanna!

Ellie’s Senior Photos

Ellie is a senior at Patton High school in our cozy town of Morganton. While the high schools in this area are in contract with another local photographer, Ellie was hoping for something a little more creative for her senior portraits. We visited several downtown locations together, and with the backdrop of our small town, we were able to capture her whimsical personality. We had fun trying different things to make her photos feel more like her, like posing with raccoon bones in a graveyard. No matter what Ellie's future holds, she'll always have these pictures to capture who she was in this moment--artistic, imaginative, and free!

Mimosa Home

I recently got the opportunity to photograph the soft opening of a new store, Mimosa Home, here in Morganton, NC. It is located downtown near Little Guatemala. It has stunning pieces that are luxurious and high quality, with prices within every shopper's budget.

Although I was at work photographing the event, I was tempted to grab a few items for myself as well.

The owner, Colleen Bennett, who also owns CBB Design and Bute Couture, planned a soft opening party. She had guests come in to check out the space while they were treated to drink, charcuterie, food from Rotation food truck, and DJing by Bobby Snakes. Guests of all ages had a great time exploring the new store and interacting with each other. I genuinely think this will be a positive addition to our town of Morganton!

Javi & Lily

My first ever solo wedding! Well, technically second because one of my best friend’s dads let me photograph their wedding in 2012. But since Nina Cline Photography became a business and I became interested in shooting weddings, this is my first solo one.
This wedding was so special to me, as the lovely couple getting married are related to a beloved friend of mine. I have known this family for some time, so I was absolutely over the moon to get to be a part of this momentous day. Lily and Javi had their ceremony in their uncle's backyard here in Morganton, NC, and the way they transformed it was incredible! They hand-built seating, a podium, and an arch. The reception was held there, but the area looked exactly like an Asheville bistro.
Lily and Javi were so relaxed and clearly in love--it was as if this moment were written in the stars. The families flowed together as if they had always been one, laughing with each other and sharing in their happiness for the newlyweds.  I could not be happier that my first solo wedding as a photographer was with this sweet couple. I got to be with a family I love, in my beautiful hometown, and on that day, it felt like the sun shined just for us. Because of their love, we created memories that will be cherished forever.