Heather and Samantha Tie the Knot at Lake Johnson Park!

I met Samantha and Heather last September to plan their wedding ceremony. Although same gender marriages are not currently recognized in North Carolina, they wanted to declare their love and devotion to each other surrounded by their families and dearest friends here at home. They plan to go to New York after the wedding to have a legal ceremony. And some day, their marriage will be recognized in North Carolina as equality is incorporated into the marriage laws here.

Marty and I arrived at Lake Johnson Park for their wedding ceremony on May 17, 2014. The sun was shining and there was a nice breeze blowing across the deck. Inside the reception area their caterer, Unforgettable Food Affairs, was setting up. This lovely cake consistent with their blue color scheme was baked by their friend Brittany Atkinson who also served as their wedding director. She is associated with Easy Peasy Decadent Desserts.

The tables were set and being readied.

At each place setting was a card for "words of wisdom" for the couple.

Outside, the sand ceremony was being set up under the tent.

Our DJ, Brian, with Triad DJ, was already set up and he and I did a sound check with my microphone. Ashley and David Photography was doing the wedding photography.