Catawba Falls Events Wedding | Katelyn and Dakota

As a Catawba Falls Events wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing many love stories, but Katelyn and Dakota’s wedding day was truly something special! These high school sweethearts share a love that radiates through every moment they share. Dakota actually discovered Catawba Falls Events when he was kayaking along the Catawba River with friends after he and Katelyn were already engaged. When they toured the property, they immediately knew it was the perfect venue for their big day.

A Picture-Perfect Setting in North Carolina

Nestled near the North Carolina and South Carolina line, Catawba Falls Event Center is a locally owned venue surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The property offers so many versatile spaces, from the Jasmine Terrace to the Boulder Room, that make it an ideal venue for both an intimate wedding and a larger celebration. With its outdoor spaces, stone fireplace, and beautiful wooden doors, it’s easy to see why couples fall in love with this space! It’s a place full of southern charm, exceptional services, and a truly picture-perfect setting for wedding photography.

Emotional Moments and a Beautiful Love Story

The morning of their special day was filled with excitement and a few happy tears. Katelyn shared a sweet first look with her dad and her three brothers, and there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. Then she and Dakota chose to do a first touch near the brick columns, holding hands back to back as they exchanged letters and tried their best not to cry (unsuccessful for both!). It was such a heartfelt moment that perfectly captured their love story.

Their outdoor wedding ceremony took place facing the Catawba River, creating a serene and romantic backdrop. The wedding guests all wore black, which gave the celebration an elegant and timeless look. Dakota looked sharp in his gray suit, standing at the altar with tears in his eyes as Katelyn walked toward him. When she reached the aisle, her brothers and Dakota were all crying, and it was one of those moments that every wedding photographer dreams of capturing!

A Beautiful Wedding Reception Full of Joy

As the day continued, we moved into the Boulder Room, where laughter and emotion filled the air. The maid of honor’s speech was heartfelt, and Katelyn’s brothers had everyone laughing with their hilarious group toast. The couple shared their first dance in front of the stone fireplace, surrounded by their loved ones and the warm glow of twinkle lights.

Even though the skies were cloudy, we took a sneak peek down to the dock for sunset photos, and the overcast light made everything look soft and romantic. It’s a great reminder that sometimes the best way to get magical images is to simply embrace whatever the day decides to gives you. The cloudy sky made the beautiful wedding portraits even more dreamy.

At the end of the day, Katelyn and Dakota shared a joyful grand exit with pop streamers. The streamers didn’t exactly go as planned, but the result was even better—photos of the married couple laughing and tangled in streamers! It perfectly captured their fun and carefree personalities.

Why I Love Photographing at Catawba Falls Events

As a Catawba Falls Events wedding photographer, I’m always amazed by how this event venue offers something unique for every couple. Whether it’s the peaceful view of the river, the warmth of the stone fireplace, or the elegant charm of the Jasmine Terrace, every corner is designed to help couples celebrate in their own special way. Sherry Walden and her team truly go above and beyond to make every celebration unforgettable.

If you’re planning your own Catawba Falls Events wedding and looking for someone who knows the venue inside and out, I’d love to be part of your story! This ideal venue is one of my favorites in North Carolina, and capturing love stories here never gets old!

Now, please enjoy some of my favorites from Katelyn and Dakota’s wedding day!