The Ruth: Charlotte North Carolina Intimate Wedding
There’s something uniquely magical about intimate weddings. The ones where the love shared between a couple fills every corner of the space, where each stolen glance feels like a cherished moment, and where the celebration is not about spectacle but about the intimate gathering of those who matter most. Kara and Josue’s wedding day was the perfect example of this. It was a day filled with heartfelt moments, genuine connection, and personal touches that made it all feel so uniquely theirs.
What struck me most about their day was the level of thought and care put into every detail. Each element seemed to reflect their personalities in the most beautiful and intentional way—from the venue choice to the carefully curated decor, to the quiet moments they reserved just for themselves. It was a celebration that didn’t need to be grand to feel extraordinary. In fact, it was the simplicity and authenticity that made it so memorable.
The day began with a first look at Freedom Park, one of Charlotte’s serene gems. As Kara’s parents and sister walked her out to where Josue and I were waiting, there was a quiet anticipation in the air. Kara’s mom gently fluffed out her dress, making sure everything was perfect before Josue turned around to see his bride for the first time. This tender moment set the tone for what would be an emotional and intimate day. After their first look, the couple exchanged private vows by the tranquil lake in the park, creating a personal moment that was just between them. It’s moments like these that I always strive to capture—unposed, real, and full of heart.
We spent some time taking portraits around the park before heading to The Ruth, a relatively new yet hidden gem of a wedding venue in Charlotte. Tucked away in the heart of the city, The Ruth offers a unique combination of outdoor beauty and vintage-inspired charm. The venue’s outdoor ceremony site feels like a private forest, secluded from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it the perfect backdrop for a wedding that is as intimate as it is beautiful. Inside, the vintage bar area provided a gorgeous setting for Kara and Josue’s portraits, capturing their love against a backdrop of timeless elegance. These quiet, tender moments throughout the day reminded me of the power of authenticity. It’s never about the extravagance—it’s about creating an environment that feels true to who you are as a couple.
Once the portraits were finished, Kara and Josue took a few moments to relax and freshen up before their ceremony. During their cocktail hour, they shared a private dinner and exchanged gifts, allowing them to be fully present with one another in a quiet, intimate setting before the whirlwind of the reception. This thoughtful choice allowed them to have a few moments to themselves before they emerged to greet their guests. And greet their guests, they did. What stood out most about Kara and Josue was their dedication to connecting with every single person who attended their wedding. While many couples would be having their own dinner or taking a break, Kara and Josue made sure to visit with each of their guests, sharing a moment and a smile with everyone who had gathered to celebrate them.
The reception was nothing short of joyous. After heartfelt speeches, the dance floor was alive with energy, and Kara and Josue danced with abandon, surrounded by the love of their friends and family. They stayed on the floor, fully immersed in the celebration, until just before their exit. But even then, their day wasn’t over. They snuck away to cut their cake in private, taking another quiet moment together before returning to their guests. The night ended with a dramatic exit as they ran through a sea of streamers, their joy and excitement palpable in every moment.
For me, the most meaningful weddings are never about extravagance or size. It’s about the depth of emotion, the connection, and the love that two people share when they decide to spend their lives together. Kara and Josue’s wedding was a perfect example of this. Every moment, every detail, every smile—was a reflection of their deep love for one another and the life they’re building together. It’s moments like these that make my work so fulfilling. It’s not about creating the perfect picture; it’s about capturing the authenticity of love, the quiet moments that speak volumes, and the unique story that every couple shares.
What I strive to capture in my work is not just the event of the wedding day, but the essence of who my couples are—who they are together and individually, and how their love shines in every fleeting moment. Kara and Josue’s wedding was an extraordinary reminder of the power of intimacy, authenticity, and love. It wasn’t about perfection or grandeur—it was about two people, deeply in love, surrounded by those who mattered most, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
For me, there’s nothing more beautiful than capturing the raw, unposed moments of connection that make each wedding day uniquely special. Kara and Josue’s wedding was a beautiful reflection of that—and a reminder of why I do what I do. To me, it’s always about the moments that feel timeless and true, the moments that tell the story of a love that’s deeper than anything else. Their day was a true celebration of that kind of love—one that’s beautifully simple, profoundly intimate, and forever memorable.
