Nestled just outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, The Bradford is a timeless, European-inspired wedding venue that feels like it’s been transported straight from the Italian countryside. Hannah and Jared’s spring wedding celebrated everything The Bradford is known for: romantic architecture, lush florals, and the perfect blend of modern sophistication with old-world charm.
Their wedding was the perfect example of how this sought-after North Carolina wedding venue can be transformed into a luxurious yet effortlessly destination-inspired celebration, especially when paired with an editorial-meets-documentary photography approach and the nostalgic beauty of film.
A Chic Courtyard Reception with Curved Tables & Immersive Florals
Hannah and Jared’s reception design was nothing short of breathtaking. Instead of traditional straight banquet tables, their planner designed an artful layout of curved tables that gracefully wrapped around lush wild garden-style floral installations. These flowers didn’t just sit on the tables, they bloomed from within them, creating the feeling of dining in a secret European garden.
The palette combined earthy spring greens, creamy whites, soft taupes, and deep brown mocha mousse inspired, perfectly complementing The Bradford’s soft ivory exterior and natural surroundings. Overhead, airy greenery was draped across the courtyard, blurring the lines between architecture and nature.
True-to-Color Editorial + Documentary Photography
To honor their effortlessly chic design and heartfelt celebration, Hannah and Jared chose a hybrid photography approach—blending both digital and film coverage. The film photography add-on brought a soft, nostalgic texture to their gallery while maintaining the true-to-color tones that made their florals, fashion, and setting shine.
This approach created a collection of images that felt both editorial and emotional: fashion-forward yet full of movement and meaning. Every fleeting moment—from teary-eyed vows to champagne tower toasts—was documented with an eye for natural storytelling.
The Bradford: A Top Wedding Venue in North Carolina
Located just 30 minutes from downtown Raleigh, The Bradford has quickly become one of the most sought-after wedding venues in North Carolina. Its European-inspired architecture, sprawling gardens, and indoor-outdoor spaces make it ideal for couples seeking a refined yet romantic wedding setting close to the city.
For couples planning a wedding at The Bradford, investing in photography that balances editorial sophistication with documentary authenticity is essential to preserving the full story of the day. As this wedding proves, The Bradford offers an unmatched backdrop for timeless, magazine-worthy imagery.
Searching for a Raleigh or North Carolina Wedding Photographer?
If you’re dreaming of a wedding at The Bradford or another luxury wedding venue in North Carolina, and want your photos to feel as chic, true-to-life, and emotional as your day itself, I’d love to connect.
Let’s create something timeless together.
📍 Patty Betts Photography is based in Raleigh, North Carolina.
📷 Hybrid film + digital coverage
💌 Inquire here to begin planning your North Carolina wedding photography experience.
