Shackleford Island, NC – where wild horses roam free about the rolling-dunes-meets-the-ocean island. This island was extra special to Tonya + Dave when selecting where they would like to tie the knot, being they also got engaged on this island! Tonya loves horses and Dave, a former marine, was stationed in North Carolina so it was extra special and an idyllic spot for them both.
The day began at a quaint Air B&B, located in the historic town of Beaufort, a short walk to where our chartered boat was docked waiting to take us to the island. Floating by all the old southern charm estates, we made it to Wild Horse Island. The Bride + Groom also invited his marine buddy and Best Man Dan and her 15 year old daughter and Maid of Honor Vienna. They searched for sea shells, said I Do’s, enjoyed a Polished Picnic and kissed in the water as the sun set under a pastel sky and dolphins playing nearby.
To incorporate Dave’s marine ties, we surprised him by pinning his Marine pin to her bouquet! We kept this secret until the ceremony and he was teary eyed once he saw what was attached….
It was a picture perfect day and the exact reason why I have fallen in love with the air of elopements. The day is truly only about the Bride + Groom and celebrating their love. Having the right florals in your bouquet, napkin folds and all the extra fluff does not exist at an elopement. You are spending the day with your person, being in the moment, taking that monumental life step together.
This is why we simply adore working alongside Trisha of Xsperience Photography, as she focuses her photography on the experience as much as the images created. She believes the photos should tell a beautiful story you wish you could relive again and again.
“When looking at your photos, you should feel the same joy and love you felt when the images were created.” -Trisha
Despite hauling numerous bags, coolers and shoes on and off a boat, high heat with a sunburn….…I would relive this day again and again. The love in the air was an overwhelming feeling and reminds me why I do what I do. I feel most alive helping you all on the most special days of your lives. I hope to pop many more bottles in your honor! Cheers!
