Cynthia Viola Photography

Jamie and Drew's Wedding at Raleigh Union Station

Wedding PhotographyCynthia Viola

Jamie and Drew’s mountain engagement was just the beginning for these sweet babes. The flowers Jamie used at their adorable session in West Jefferson as well as all the flowers for the big day were hand made by their sister -n-law Emily! SO unique! I highly recommend!! (Link at bottom)

What a weekend!! When I say this couple has made an impact on their community…

I mean the outpouring who showed up to celebrate them represented folks from all walks. I mean they hired myself and all their vendors specifically because we are LGBTQ+ allies, simply to make sure each and every guest felt welcomed and supported while attending their events.

I mean they were sure to include each and every child among their friends through a fun learning day before the wedding instead of a rehearsal. (think physics experiments, a train photo booth, balloon games and a mini ceremony just for the kids!)

The way their friends and family gushed over them through speeches and side conversations, through selfies and compliments was overwhelming. They are truly adored by everyone they know, as they should be. Both incredibly kind and genuine. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of the other, than each other.

Fun fact: Drew wore the same suit he wore the day they met. (Jamie was obviously a fan) ;)

They chose to begin the wedding day with cocktail hour so they could greet their guests and casually blend into the ceremony when the timing felt right.

Vicki flipped a coin to see who would recite their vows first (Drew) and they exited the stage right into their first dance. Their guests went wild of course.

We could NOT have been more extatic to find the rain had finally stopped the moment they completed their dance so we rushed outside and captured tons of fun Just Married moments. And while the rain wasn’t fun for set up and tear down, it did not dampen one single moment of the day. Raleigh Union Station has so many incredible backdrops for photo ops, the weather is nearly irrelevant.

Their table decor consised of every travel item they own as well as every letter written to each other while dating. Most from various states as Jamie biked across the country. Additionally they entertained their guests with swing dancing lessons, a penny press and plenty of photo ops!

After the sun had set, we chose to play around with the unique spaces inside Raleigh Union Station. Between the various backdrops and unique lighting, we were not disappointed. It was quite the day and I would do it again anytime! Thank you so much for trusting me with your memories Jamie and Drew!! Love you both!!

The Wedding Vendors who made the day possible:

Photographer: Cynthia Viola with Guillermo Delgado

Coordinator: Kathryne with Harmony Weddings & Events

Venue : Raleigh Union Station

Dress: Unique Vintage

Shoes: Sofft Shoes

Rings: Rough Diamonds

Hair: Jen Mize at Salon Lofts

Florist: Emily Shoemaker at Bolt to Bloom

Officiant: Vicki Yannayon

DJ: Craig Sopo

Video: Matthew Rizzo

Catering: Lara Kelleher at Under the Oak Catering

Cake: Leann Gilliam and Brian Cordileone at Craft Public House

Rentals: Curated Events

Day Before Shindig: Pullen Park