Artful Same Sex Wedding with Fruit Decor, Rich Shades of Red, & Real Tattoos
Planned by The Gathering Co.
Photos by Michelle Elyse Photography
A gorgeous same sex wedding at the Heights House Hotel in autumn featuring rich textures and a palette of red. Featuring beautiful artistic pieces created by the couple and their loved ones.
“Michelle, Grateful for your eyes so true,
With your lens, Love shines through,
Every frame, A story anew.”
– a poem from my incredibly creative bride Shayn
CONTACT ME HERE: Michelle Elyse Photography
View my PORTFOLIO of International and US weddings HERE
A few personal favorites above, now onto the full experience…
This couple chose to host a beautiful outdoor ceremony and reception at the Heights House Hotel in downtown Raleigh, NC. There were so many fascinating, beautiful and unexpected parts to this day- please follow along with their story below.
It was the most beautiful September day. Maya and Shayn both got ready at the Heights House Hotel in separate rooms. Shayn wore this gorgeous black tux and Maya opted for a beautiful flowing goddess gown. Their first look was priceless!
Have to make to pause here – because do you see that incredible painting on the mantle? Shayn MADE THAT for their wedding day! Just beyond.
For their ceremony, Maya and Shayn opted to walk down the aisle together. They also asked their best friends to dress all in white, who sat there teary-eyed in the front row.
It was a beautiful ceremony!
Their garden style tent was incredible. As guests sipped and nibbled on the beautiful delights passed by Sweet Pea, I snuck off with Maya and Shayn for a few minutes to bask in that newlywed glow in the sunset.
One of the best parts of my job is to meet wonderful people, and to capture their stories in a way that is authentic to them. I created several double exposures using the painting Shayn created and their newlywed photos that day as a way to blend our shared appreciation of art.
The joy! Time to head back to drink some wine and party!
Then came for the surprise of a lifetime- as everyone finished dinner, Shayn snuck back into the hotel with her friend to get a dramatic new haircut for the remaining reception!
The cake was delicious, but the napkins stole my heart! This adorable drawing was created by the couple’s niece.
And yes- as mentioned- real tattoos were had by any who wished to partake. Maya and Shayn both got their ring fingers tattooed
What an incredible day! Thank you so much Maya and Shayn for asking me to be a part of it! What an unforgettable treat to be able to work with you both! XO Michelle Elyse
Vendor Credits:
Photographer: Michelle Elyse Photography
Planning: The Gathering Co
Florist: Thistle & Moon
Catering: Sweet Pea Catering
Venue: Heights House Hotel