Julie and Dhruv are truly a match made in heaven—and dream clients for me! I first had the honor of photographing them during their epic engagement session in the gardens of Duke Mansion last fall. If you’ve been following along, you might remember that their love story actually began in the city of love—at Café Charlot in Paris!

With just four months to plan their wedding, Julie and Dhruv turned to the incredibly talented Sarah Cook of SoHo Event Design. I knew they were in the best hands. The celebration kicked off the night before with a Welcome Party at The Goodyear House. Guests traveled from across five different continents to be there! Julie stunned in a chic Co dress from the local boutique Capital.  Their evening was filled with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and even a few happy tears.

Duke Mansion Wedding Day

On the morning of the wedding, Julie was so relaxed and confident in her planning team that she played a game of Yahtzee with her friends before getting ready! Her gown, a breathtaking Suzanne Neville design, featured a high illusion-lace neckline and delicate buttons down the back. It was perfect for her Grace Kelly-inspired bridal look. Her veil, selected by her father from Ladies of Lineage, added an extra sentimental touch. But Julie’s favorite accessory? A pair of stunning blue Harry Winston earrings, gifted to her by her parents: “They were purchased even before I picked out my dress, but they worked perfectly.”

Julie envisioned an “eclectic, colorful celebration that blended traditional elements with vibrant design details to honor Dhruv’s Indian heritage.” And wow, did SoHo Event Design deliver! From the ceremony to cocktail hour to the reception, the entire day was infused with incredible color and meaningful, personal touches. Just wait until you see the seating chart—it was truly a work of art!

The ceremony had a dreamy garden party atmosphere. I loved the color-blocked florals in potted arrangements lining both sides of the aisle. Meraki Blommor created a breathtaking asymmetrical, deconstructed floral arch to frame the couple as they exchanged vows. Julie’s bridal bouquet was a statement piece, bursting with the full color palette. Her bridesmaids carried miniature versions for a beautifully cohesive look.

A Colorful Spring Wedding Reception

The vibrant design carried seamlessly into the reception. Guests were seated at oversized wooden tables arranged in a unique ‘X’ layout, with an intimate head table in the center of the tent. The place settings featured modern ivory china, sleek black flatware, and contemporary smoked glassware. All an effortlessly chic touch—while colorful dinner menus and place cards added playful pops of color. Lush, modern centerpieces and ikebana-inspired floral arrangements cascaded down the tables, complemented by glowing tapers and votive candles for a warm, romantic ambiance.

One of my favorite design elements? The wedding cake! Designed by Miri Nadler Cake Design, it was a true masterpiece, with sculpted icing forming 3D floral details that perfectly tied into the wedding’s color palette.

The night ended just as it should—on the dance floor! With an incredible soundtrack provided by Re-Drum, Julie and Dhruv danced the night away to their favorite hits. That included some fun punk rock throwbacks from Sum 41 and Blink-182!

With all of its stunning details and personality, it’s no surprise that this wedding was recently featured in BRIDES! Check out the full feature here.

It was such a joy capturing this incredible day, and I can’t wait to share even more from this unforgettable celebration!

Vendors

Photographer: Demi Mabry || Planner: SoHo Event Design || Floral Design: Meraki Blommor || Hair + Makeup: Blushing Hair and Makeup || Videographer: Cassie Hiatt Films || Invitations: Arzberger Stationers  || Stationary + Custom Seating Display: Viri Lovely Designs || Cake: Miri Nadler Cake Design || Ceremony Music: Carolina Strings || Live Band: Re-Drum || Tent, Lighting, Tabletop: Curated Events Charlotte || Linens: BBJ La Tavola || Custom Draping: Party Tables || Bridal Shop: Ladies of Lineage || Bridal Gown: Suzanne Neville || Photo Booth: QC Booths || Welcome Party Venue: The Goodyear House || Wedding Venue: Duke Mansion