A Flower-Filled Celebration: Lauren & Daniel’s Romantic Bella Collina Wedding
Lauren & Daniel’s Bella Collina Wedding Was Straight Out of a Fairytale
This past weekend, I had the absolute joy of capturing Lauren and Daniel’s wedding at the breathtaking Bella Collina in North Carolina. Their story is full of serendipity, sentiment, and sweet surprises—and their wedding day brought every part of their journey to life in the most meaningful way.
From Empanadas to Ever After
Lauren moved from Florida to North Carolina in search of seasons and a change of pace. Daniel, originally from Michigan, came to UNC to study chemistry. Fate brought them together online—and over empanadas on their very first date, a spark was lit.
As their love grew, so did their dreams of forever. They went ring shopping together, told the wait would be 6–8 weeks. But, in a twist of fate, the rings were ready in just four.
A Floral Proposal (with a Secret Photographer!)
Lauren had no clue what was coming when she spent the night before the proposal hanging out with her best friend—who was fully in on the secret. The next morning, the couple went to a local park (one of many Lauren wants to visit for her love of blooming flowers). There, Daniel proposed. Hidden nearby? Her friend, snapping photos and capturing video of the unforgettable moment.
A Wedding Bursting with Blooms
On their wedding day at Bella Collina, Lauren and Daniel brought their floral dream to life. From bouquets to table arrangements, blooms were everywhere. But the most unique floral moment? A tree planting ceremony—a symbol of their growing love, roots planted right there in the soil of their new beginning.
As Daniel and Lauren planted their tree, Daniel’s sister sang a moving song, making the moment even more unforgettable. That tree stayed on the lawn the entire night, standing tall as guests danced the night away on the deck.
Personal Touches, Playful Traditions
This wedding wasn’t just heartfelt—it was fun.
💃 During the reception, Daniel and his brother had a full-on dance battle that no one wanted to end.
🎤 The bridesmaids requested a hilarious staged photo where they “beat up” the groom (we made it happen!).
🎲 Instead of the traditional glass clinking for kisses, guests had to roll a Dungeons & Dragons die—if they got an 11 or higher, the couple kissed.
📸 Guests could also take selfies in exchange for fun stickers… and yes, I joined in too!
A Toast to True Love
One of the most touching moments came during the toasts. Lauren’s Maid of Honor, who also helped secretly plan the proposal, pulled out the very first texts Lauren ever sent her about Daniel. In them, she described how kind, endearing, and unique he was—something that every guest could now clearly see for themselves.
A Day to Remember
Lauren and Daniel’s wedding was full of heart, color, and character. It wasn’t just a celebration—it was a reflection of who they are: thoughtful, fun-loving, and deeply connected. From the floral touches to the D&D kisses and everything in between, this was a day I’ll never forget.
Congratulations, Lauren & Daniel! May your marriage be as joyful and love-filled as your wedding day.
Vendors:
Venue: @Bella Collina Mansion
Photographer: @Maria Sollecito Creative Prodictions
Hair/Makeup: @Poppy Salon
Florist: @Borrow the Blooms
Caterer: @Gianno’s
Cake: @Bake Me Happy
DJ: @DJ Rone
Rentals: @Happy Rentz
Wedding Dress: @New York Bride and Groom
Bridesmaid Dresses: @Azazie
Tux: @New York Bride and Groom
