This couple had a romantic destination wedding in the stunning vineyards of North Carolina. “My family has a second home in the Highlands and love the mountains,” says the bride. “We live on the beach in Naples, but Highlands is our favorite place to visit.”

Heather and Paul’s family and friends welcomed the idea of a destination wedding and were thrilled to have it at The Vineyard at 37 High Holly. “Everyone was very positive and we had always driven by the Vineyard and wanted to see it,” says Heather. “Once I saw the Vineyard I was blown away and [knew] it was the perfect place for us.”  

“Our wedding planner, I Do Events, was invaluable,” says Heather. The bride also put her all into the DIY aspect of wedding planning and accomplished the beautiful details of the wedding décor, flowers and signs all herself. 

The grandiose trees and green pastures surrounded the couple during their intimate ceremony. The yellow sunflowers hanging overhead brought a pop of color to the quaint nuptials as the jagged stone stairs led your eyes directly to the couple reciting their vows. The lush trees and vineyard served as a flawless backdrop to this couple’s perfect day. “It turned in to more of a family reunion and people had the best time,” says the bride. “I am so glad I chose a destination wedding.”

The bride’s advice: “Do things ahead of time, especially if you are going to do it yourself. I was a bit stressed at the end, I tried to take on too much or delegate.” Staying ahead on the wedding details can alleviate the stress so you can focus on the important day with the one you love.

Vendors: Wedding Location: The Vineyard at 37 High Holly, Photographer: Peter Nguyen, Wedding Planner: I Do Events – Elizabeth Fletcher + Jennifer Creswell, Ceremony/Reception Site: The Vineyard at 37 High Holly, Florist: Bride and mom (Heather Neils), Stationery: Bride (Invitations by Dawn), Cake:  Bunny Cakes, Hair & Makeup: Kate Carothers, Gown Designer: Alfred Angleo, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Brooks Brothers, Bridesmaids Clothing Designer: Anthropology, Groomsmen’s Clothing Designer: Brooks Brothers.