Real Weddings
Colleen & Jim
Colleen and Jim had a fabulous winter wedding reception in the Fearrington barn. The night was full of dancing, dining, and memorable moments with family. We loved hearing a little more about how they got engaged and what brought them to Fearrington for their big day. Any marriage proposal that starts with coffee sounds just about perfect to us!
How did you and your partner meet?
Jim and I met on Bumble. But we have a handful of mutual friends, and feel we would have eventually met. We have been pretty much inseparable ever since!
Tell us about the engagement?
I always told Jim I wanted to be utterly surprised when he proposed – I wanted no idea it was coming. It happened on a Saturday morning in my house, the day before I was leaving for a work trip and most certainly didn’t expect a proposal then! I love Dunkin Donuts coffee and Jim usually runs out and gets it for me in the mornings. He woke up bright and early and asked if I wanted a cup of coffee. I said I would go with him, but he insisted I stay at home (at this point, I still didn’t catch on). When he got back he said he had an extra surprise for me. He brought the cup of coffee to me in bed and on the cup it read, “Colleen will you marry me.” He got down on one knee, and I was absolutely in shock! Both of our families knew. My brother and his wife were in town from Wilmington, and we celebrated the rest of the day at my parents’ house with family. It was perfect!!
What made Fearrington the place for your celebration?
I have been in love with Fearrington ever since I remember. I grew up in Durham and went to grade school in nearby Chapel Hill. Growing up, we had a lot of our special occasion dinners at The Fearrington. On top of it, Jim went to school at UNC and loves any excuse to be in Chapel Hill. It was an easy decision from the beginning and knew that Fearrington would be a perfect venue to host our reception.
Describe the highlight moment of your wedding day.
I would say two things – one waiting at the end of the church isle to walk down and meet Jim. I have never been more excited in my entire life. A very close second highlight was walking into the Fearrington Barn where the reception was being held. I had absolutely no idea what to expect and was blown away. It was truly remarkable to see my vision and planning come to light. The Fearrington team was spot-on with every single detail.
What was the biggest surprise of the day?
How the day goes by in a flash. I had heard that from friends but I never really thought about it. We tried our best to savor every moment, but it still flies by.
What was your biggest surprise about wedding planning?
It is never done. It is endless! I am pretty OCD when it comes to planning and staying organized. I thought I was on top of everything (for the most part); but things continue to pop up left and right that you don’t think about.
Anything you want to add about your wedding story?
The day was absolutely perfect. It was everything we could have dreamed of and more. I could go on and on about all of our wonderful vendors. Gilda, Jenna and the entire Fearrington team were out of this world. Anagram for photography, the lovely ladies at Alexia’s Bridal, Stephanie of The Makeup Culture, Calligraphy by Carole, and Affirmative Groove Band all made our experience unforgettable.
Photographer: Anagram Photo
Hair & Makeup: The Makeup Culture
Wedding Gown: Monique Lhuillier and Vera Wang
Bridal Salon: Alexia’s Bridal
Reception Music: Affirmative Groove
Getaway Car: Classic Wedding Cars
