A Traditional, Glamorous Wedding at All Saints Chapel in Raleigh, North Carolina

Caroline Kelly (22 and an event planner) and Robert Farmer’s (22 and a graduate student) wedding fused tradition and glamour to create a festive affair that was a perfect reflection of their backgrounds and personalities. The day started with a traditional ceremony at All Saints Chapel in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, where Caroline and Robert shared heartfelt vows and performed Irish wedding traditions, like hand-fasting, against a beautiful backdrop of cathedral ceilings, striking stained glass windows and wooden beams. “Born and raised in Raleigh, it was amazing to be able to celebrate in such a historical church, all while having the Raleigh downtown skyline in view,” Caroline says. After the couple said their “I dos,” guests headed downstairs for cocktail hour while the chapel was transformed for the reception. Tables were covered with shimmery silver linens that infused the room with undeniable glitz, while lush arrangements of white hydrangeas, eucalyptus and lamb’s ear introduced a layer of understated romance to the decor. As a nod to Caroline’s Irish heritage, the couple chose a palette of gray and teal and surprised guests with a ceili, a common group dance at Irish celebrations and parties, led by Caroline’s Irish dance teacher. “I wanted to share the fun tradition that I had participated in for so many years,” Caroline says. A tip from Caroline: “I'd say the most important thing to remember is to lean on your fiance when you are stressed. There were so many occasions during the planning process in which I was beyond stressed, but every time I felt overwhelmed I told my worries to my fiance and he was able to help calm me and assure me everything would work out perfectly, which it did. Remember that the planning process is the first step in your new life together in order to build a bond and create memories.”