A Mountain Wedding at Serenity Ridge | Mill Spring, North Carolina
Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Mill Spring, North Carolina, Serenity Ridge was the perfect setting for Tim and Nicolette's wedding day in August. This dog-friendly venue, offering incredible mountain views, cozy on-property getting-ready spaces, and rental options for overnight guests, created an intimate yet breathtaking backdrop for their celebration.
The Love Story
Tim and Nicolette's journey began with a swipe on a dating app, followed by their first date at Dashi—a restaurant they still adore. From that night on, they became inseparable, with Tim instantly charmed by Nicolette’s effortless humor, and Nicolette enchanted by his big heart and lively personality. That love, laughter, and genuine connection shaped every moment of their wedding day.
The Ceremony and Heartfelt Vows
One of the most emotional highlights was their personal vows. Though Nicolette realized she had left her written vows inside, she seized the moment, speaking directly from her heart—a memory that left barely a dry eye in sight. Before the ceremony, they shared a quiet first touch, allowing them to feel close without breaking tradition. Nicolette also shared a beautiful first look with her bridesmaids and dad, making for some deeply emotional moments that set the tone for the day. And lets not forget the best ring bearer ever, Bear, their fur baby!
The Reception: Laughter, Surprises, and a Firefighter’s Celebration
The reception at Serenity Ridge was a blend of heartfelt toasts and lively moments. The DJ delighted everyone with a birthday song for the flower girl, bringing joy to the youngest member of the party. With many of Tim’s firefighter friends in attendance, the party soon escalated when a few took to the dance floor with chairs, setting the tone with Ginuwine’s “Pony”—a moment that brought laughs and applause.
Minimalistic Decor, Maximum Impact
Tim and Nicolette chose soft blues accented with bright orange, adding a splash of color that complemented the mountain landscape. Their minimalist approach to decor, with pieces from An English Flower Cottage, preserved the natural beauty of Serenity Ridge, creating a rustic yet refined aesthetic that highlighted the venue's stunning views rather than overshadowing them.
Capturing Every Moment
Capturing Tim and Nicolette’s wedding was not just a professional assignment but an absolute joy. From the moment my team and I arrived at the rehearsal, they welcomed us with open arms, treating us more like friends than photographers. Working with such a warm and lively couple made documenting their love story a pleasure, and I’m honored to call them lifelong friends. This wedding is one I’ll always remember for its laughter, love, and the sense of community that surrounded Tim and Nicolette.
A Dream Team of Vendors
The day was beautifully brought together by a team of incredible vendors, each playing a part in making Tim and Nicolette’s dream wedding come to life. From the exquisite floral arrangements by An English Flower Cottage to the delectable cake crafted by Kimberly Washington, every detail was carefully chosen. Guests enjoyed seamless catering by Serenity Ridge, and the bride and her party looked radiant thanks to hair and makeup team.
Vendor Team:
Photography: Kelsey Sheehan Photography
Venue: Serenity Ridge
Floral Arrangements: An English Flower Cottage
DJ: Phoenix Sounds
Photo Booth: Gracious Glimpse
Rentals/Decor: An English Flower Cottage
Hair: Love On Your Locs
Makeup: Amplified by Kay
Bridal Shop: Fancy Frocks
Grooms Attire: Generation Tux
Catering: Serenity Ridge
Bakery: Kimberly Washington
