Wilmington NC Wedding Photographer

There is something undeniably special about winter weddings on the North Carolina coast, and Katie & Cadan’s celebration on Figure Eight Island was a perfect reminder of why I love photographing weddings here. As a Wilmington, NC wedding photographer, days like this are what I dream of documenting—elegant design, heartfelt moments, a couple who embraces the day exactly as it unfolds, and a setting that feels both peaceful and cinematic.

Despite steady December rain, their wedding day glowed with joy, warmth, and intention. With the incredibly talented Salt Harbor Designs leading the planning and floral design, every detail of this Figure Eight Island wedding felt refined, personal, and beautifully wintery!

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Figure Eight Island Wedding Inspiration for a Winter Coastal Celebration

A Soft Blue + Green Coastal Winter Palette

Salt Harbor Designs transformed the tented waterfront space into a serene winter haven. Soft blues, gentle greens, white florals, and candlelight filled the reception, creating the dreamiest December ambiance. The custom bar, blue patterned linens, lounge pockets, and lush floral arrangements layered texture and elegance without distracting from the natural waterfront setting.

I’m constantly inspired by how this exclusive island blends luxury with coastal calm. This wedding day captured that balance perfectly: timeless, light, and sophisticated.

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A Waterfront Ceremony That Embraced the Rain

Exchanging Vows by the Water in December

The ceremony took place overlooking the water, framed by an abundance of winter white florals. The rain was steady, but Katie & Cadan never let the weather dull a single moment. They said their vows surrounded by the people they love most—and their adorable pup, who proudly made an appearance.

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Magic in the Reception Design

Coastal Winter Details for a Stunning Tent Reception

The reception design was everything a Figure Eight Island wedding should be—elevated, inviting, and thoughtfully curated. Guests enjoyed soft seating areas, candlelit tables, winter cocktails, and the calm sound of the water just beyond the tent. The palette of dusty blues and greens paired beautifully with the December backdrop of Christmas trees on the stage behind the band, creating a timeless coastal winter aesthetic.

As a Wilmington NC wedding photographer, one of the elements I loved most was how the design photographed: soft light, airy tones, clean lines, and subtle seasonal texture.

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A Snowy Exit and Boat Ride to the After Party

Just when the day couldn’t feel more magical, Katie & Cadan ended the night with a snowy grand exit before hopping onto a boat that carried them to the after party. It was whimsical, cinematic, and the perfect ending to a coastal winter celebration—pure Figure Eight Island wedding magic.

Watching them disappear across the water felt like a scene out of a winter romance film.

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Why Choose Figure Eight Island for Your Wilmington NC Wedding

Figure Eight Island is one of the most breathtaking and exclusive locations for a coastal wedding in North Carolina. Its private beaches, serene waterways, and refined atmosphere make it ideal for couples dreaming of an elevated destination-inspired celebration.

If you’re planning a Figure Eight Island wedding or searching for a Wilmington NC wedding photographer, I’d love to capture your story with the same warmth, artistry, and coastal-inspired style.

Vendors:
Planner: @saltharbor
Getting Ready Location: @sycamorebendestate
Ceremony & Reception Venue: @f8iyc
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Musician: @theweddingviolinist
Caterer: @f8iyc
Cake: @onebellebakery
Photographer: @ashleyclarkephoto
Reception Music: @theembersband
Transportation: @carolinalimoandcoach @azalealimousine
Rentals: @marthamydearrentals @whitebirchrentals @partysuppliersandrentals
Lighting: @highperformancelightingnc
Hair & Make-up: @alicelawsonsalon
Live Painter: @artby_kelseyrae
Linens: @nuagedesignsinc
Getaway Boat: @airliepointeyachts

See more weddings on my blog!