Y’all, if you’ve ever been on the fence about having a destination wedding. Let me introduce you to this Outer Banks wedding. It was elegant without being stuffy, intimate but still a party, and the vibe? Absolute gold. Savannah and Matthew invited their people to spend a full weekend in the Outer Banks. Renting a giant beach house where everyone could just hang out, relax, and celebrate like one big (very stylish) family. And I swear every single part of the day felt like a warm breeze, fun, easy, and filled with so much love. Spoiler alert: they ended the night by jumping in the pool together. Fully dressed!
All the Prettiest Outer Banks Wedding Details
Let’s kick it off with the details, because these two didn’t miss a beat. Savannah and Matthew’s flatlays were a whole mood, soft, beachy neutrals layered on dark wood, with pops of gold that felt just the right amount of fancy. Think creamy vow books (his + hers), dainty gold jewelry, velvet ring boxes with their initials, and even a cute little locket tucked in with baby’s breath and roses. Their “Save the Date” looked like a vintage concert ticket, how fun is that?! It all tied together like a well-thought-out Pinterest board, but better, because it was theirs. You could tell they really poured themselves into even the tiniest touches
Getting Ready For Their Big Day
The morning felt like two different movies happening at once, both amazing. Upstairs, Savannah was surrounded by her girls in the cutest mix of soft blue robes, sipping champagne and giving big “we’ve waited for this day forever” energy. The getting ready space was filled with sunlight, hairspray, and happy tears. Her mom helped her into the most stunning gown, fitted, floral, off-the-shoulder, and just sparkly enough to catch the light in the most magical way. Meanwhile, the guys were on a whole other vibe, laid back, playing arcade games, cracking open beers, and hyping up Matthew as he got ready. It was chill, it was fun, and it just made sense. Once everyone was dressed (tan suits for the guys, giving very “coastal cool”), it was go time.
The Sweetest First Look in the Dunes
Their first look happened just over the dunes, tucked into this little pocket of tall grass and golden sand that looked like something straight out of a movie. Matthew stood with his back turned while Savannah made her way toward him, dress trailing behind like a literal dream. And when he turned around? The smile on his face said everything. They held each other, wiped a few happy tears, and took a quiet moment to just breathe. It felt like time slowed down for them, just for a second. And honestly, it was one of those moments you wish you could bottle up and keep forever.
Bride & Groom Portraits by the Waves
We headed down to the beach after that, and let me tell you, Outer Banks skies were doing the most. It was a little overcast, but the light was glowy and soft in the best way. The waves were doing their moody, romantic thing in the background while Savannah and Matthew danced around barefoot in the sand (okay, not really danced but like, almost). These two were all smiles, soaking in that “we’re actually getting married!” feeling. The photos? Pure magic. Windswept hair, sand between their toes, and all the giddy, just-married energy in the world!
The Most Fun Wedding Party Ever
Let’s talk about the crew. This wedding party? Came to slay and celebrate. The bridesmaids were in champagne dresses that caught the light perfectly, and the groomsmen were serving Outer Banks cool in their light tan suits. But what made this crew stand out wasn’t just how good they looked, it was the energy. They were cracking jokes, cheering on the couple, hyping each other up like it was game day. Everyone was just genuinely thrilled to be there. You could tell this group loves Savannah and Matthew, and they brought that love to the beach in the biggest, happiest way!
Outer Banks Wedding Ceremony on the Beach
The ceremony took place right in the sand, with a wooden arch decked out in pampas grass and cream florals. It was simple but so stunning, the kind of setup that doesn’t try too hard because the view is already doing all the work. Guests sat in neat rows with the ocean behind the altar and a breeze that felt made-to-order. Savannah walked down the aisle with the kind of glow that only happens when you know you’re walking toward your forever person. The ceremony itself was sweet and heartfelt, full of laughs, happy tears, and a few jokes that had the whole crowd smiling. And yes, their pups made an appearance and totally stole the show in their little bowties.
Poolside Reception (And the Most Epic Wedding Exit Ever)
After the “I Do’s,” everyone headed back to the house for one of the most relaxed, beautiful receptions I’ve ever seen. Picture this: string lights overhead, music playing, drinks flowing, and everyone barefoot dancing around the pool. The first dances were sweet and romantic under the glow of the bistro lights, with the whole house behind them lit up like a cozy little wedding village. But let’s be real, the real showstopper was the grand finale. Instead of a traditional exit, Savannah and Matthew jumped into the pool in their full wedding looks. Like, yes. Dress, suit, the whole thing. Everyone was cheering, laughing, jumping in the pool with them, it was the perfect ending to a day that was equal parts elegant and wild fun.
Ready For Your Outer Banks Wedding? Would Love To Chat!
Cayleigh Ely Photo | Destination Wedding Photographer
If you’re dreaming of your own Outer Banks wedding, or any celebration that feels deeply personal, a little wild, and a lot of fun, I’d be so honored to capture it for you. I’m a TN based destination wedding photographer who’s all about the real moments, the big feelings, and the kind of love that makes you want to jump in the pool at the end of the night. Sound like your vibe? Let’s chat! Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!
