“Swanderson” Wedding Weekend at the Duke Chapel

This past weekend was quite the celebration. I don’t take two days off of work for just anybody, but if you knew Katie and Scott, you’d understand why their wedding was touching, a blast, and full of lots and lots of dancing. They sure do know how to throw a party.

Katie is one of my best friends from high school and is a “forever” friend. Much to our dismay, I had never visited Duke University (where they went to school) before, but now I think I’d like to go back. It was pretty great. Not to mention the Washington Duke Inn, Duke Chapel and The Cotton Room were absolutely amaze. Here’s a little recap and some photos from the long weekend away!

My trip began with a walk from the WaDuke to grab lunch. I think I’ve realized I don’t mind eating alone at restaurants. It’s kind of nice sometimes, actually. And certainly allows for some great people watching. While it was a little bit farther of a walk than I expected, it was well worth it and quite pretty.

My destination was NOSH. And boy did I seriously nosh. When I saw online that its tagline was “Eclectic Foodstuffs,” I was sold. It had a precious little NOSH “bike-cart” out front.

And little did I know I had actually chosen out of the blue one of Katie’s favorite Durham meals. A portabella burger and curried couscous. And I found Waldo. What could be better?

We bacheloretted and rehearsed. And I saw the Duke Chapel for the first time. Y’all, this thing looks like it should be in Europe. It’s phenomenal.

And the “bowquet” I created from gifts at Katie’s brunch bridal shower made its grand appearance.

Later, people said lots of nice things about Katie and Scott as we chowed down on some North Carolina BBQ at the rehearsal dinner. It was held at the Durham Arts Council, which was a seriously cool venue.

On the morning of the wedding, I explored the property at the WaDuke before anyone else was awake. It is amazing – and huge!

And last but certainly not least, we celebrated the marriage of two insanely kind-hearted and loving people!

Katie and Scott, it was such an honor to be a part of your wedding weekend. Thank you so much for including me in all of the festivities! So excited to come back for a visit to Duke in the hopefully near future!