Hurricane Helene had a profound impact on many lives. Katie & McKayla’s wedding day is one of them.
They got married on a warm fall day, surrounded by their closest friends and chosen family, a bright, joyful celebration in the midst of heartbreak and chaos. Just days earlier, Hurricane Helene had devastated Asheville and the surrounding areas, leaving so much uncertainty and damage in its wake.
In the days leading up to their wedding, my first priority was checking in on all of my friends to make sure everyone was safe. Once I had heard from everyone, my next thought was with these two sweet souls. Wondering whether they were still moving forward with their wedding plans. When we finally connected, their response was simple and beautiful: “Everyone could use a little joy right now.” At that moment, I was all in ready to show up and capture whatever this day was meant to be.
All The Details
What you see pictured here wasn’t their original plan. It was their Plan B, but as their officiant so perfectly said, it ended up being their Plan A+. Everything you see from the decorations to the food to the cozy gathering spaces was lovingly donated, curated, and created by their friends and the kind-hearted locals of Black Mountain.
Not a single professional vendor was involved; every detail was crafted by the hands and hearts of the people who love them. If you want a glimpse into the spirit of Appalachia, this is it: a community that loves deeply, shows up fiercely, and jumps into action without hesitation.
The Backyard Reception
We spent the evening eating warm bowls of homemade chili by candlelight, sipping spiced apple cider spiked with bourbon, gathering around the fire, dancing under the stars, and celebrating a love so tangible you could feel it in every glance, every laugh, every embrace.
It was one of the good days, a reminder of what really matters. And I’m so deeply honored I got to be a part of it all.
