Devon and Robin’s Airlie Gardens Elopement: Sunrise, Cake, and Tattoos
When Devon and Robin decided to elope, they wanted a day that felt uniquely *them*—intimate, fun, and full of love. Their choice of Airlie Gardens as the location for their vows was perfect, but their wedding day was so much more than just the ceremony. It was a celebration of their connection, their spontaneity, and yes, their ability to roll with life’s unexpected challenges (hello, flat tire). Let’s take a look at how their day unfolded—and why Airlie Gardens might just be your dream elopement destination.
The Morning: Sunrise Shenanigans and Cake for Breakfast
Devon and Robin kicked off their wedding day with an early morning beach adventure at Wrightsville Beach near Johnny Mercer’s Fishing Pier. The beach was practically deserted at that hour, giving them the perfect opportunity to splash in the water, climb up onto a lifeguard stand, and watch the sunrise together.
And because every great day starts with dessert, they shared slices of wedding cake over coffee while soaking in the peacefulness of the morning. Cake for breakfast? Absolutely. It’s your wedding day—rules don’t apply!
The Flat Tire Adventure
Just when things were going perfectly (cue romantic sunrise vibes), life decided to throw in some chaos. Robin’s vehicle started showing signs of a flat tire—because apparently, even cars can get emotional on wedding days. While Robin handled finding a repair shop, I stepped in to help Devon stick to the timeline. We headed off for her hair appointment and made a quick stop at the store for some forgotten eyelashes (because no one should have to say “I do” without fabulous lashes).
Getting Ready Together: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
This is where being a full-service elopement photographer comes in handy—when life happens, I’m there to keep things running smoothly. Crisis averted!
Once everyone regrouped at their AirBnB, it was time for Devon and Robin to get ready. Unlike traditional weddings where couples often opt for separate spaces or first looks, these two chose to help each other get dressed—and honestly, it was one of the sweetest parts of the day.
Robin adjusted Devon’s dress while Devon helped Robin perfect her suit jacket, which she wore over a beautiful lace corset. Watching them laugh and support each other during these quiet moments reminded me why I love capturing elopements—they’re all about connection and authenticity.
Pro tip: If you’re considering getting ready together on your wedding day, do it! It’s intimate, calming, and makes for some truly beautiful memories (and photos).
Airlie Gardens: A Botanical Wonderland
Now onto the main event: Airlie Gardens! This Wilmington gem is like stepping into another world—a lush paradise filled with vibrant blooms, towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss, and tranquil water features that make every corner feel magical.
Devon and Robin chose the Minnie Evans Bottle Chapel as the location for their ceremony. This quirky yet breathtaking spot is adorned with colorful glass bottles that shimmer in the sunlight—a perfect backdrop for exchanging vows. Their ceremony was private and heartfelt (yes, I teared up—don’t judge), with me capturing every candid moment while officiating from behind the camera. Talk about multitasking!
If you’re planning your own elopement here, don’t forget your marriage license! Airlie Gardens staff can even serve as witnesses if needed—a practical perk that makes this venue even more ideal for intimate weddings.
Couples Portraits: Exploring Airlie Gardens
After their heartfelt ceremony at the Bottle Chapel, it was time for couples portraits—and let me tell you, Airlie Gardens delivered big time. From vibrant blooms to towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss, every corner of this venue felt like something out of a storybook.
It was a super hot day. Thankfully, the amazing staff at Airlie Gardens stepped in and drove us around the grounds for portraits, ensuring Devon and Robin stayed cool while still getting stunning photos. This unexpected touch made the experience even more special and allowed us to explore more of the gardens without breaking (too much of) a sweat.
Spontaneous Fun: Matching Tattoos Because Why Not?
As if their elopement day wasn’t already memorable enough, Devon and Robin decided to crank up the cool factor by getting matching tattoos after their ceremony. Yep, you read that right—matching tattoos.
After leaving the lush beauty of Airlie Gardens (and surviving the heat like champs), they made their way to a local tattoo studio for a little spontaneous fun. They chose designs that were meaningful to them and got tattooed at the same time, laughing as they added this bold and unexpected chapter to their wedding day.
Honestly, it was the perfect way to cap off their elopement—unique, adventurous, and totally them. If you’re thinking about adding a spontaneous twist to your own elopement day, take a page out of Devon and Robin’s book. Whether it’s tattoos, skydiving (okay, maybe wait until after the vows for that one), or something completely out of the box, make it yours. After all, it’s your day!
Why Choose Airlie Gardens for Your Elopement?
Airlie Gardens isn’t just a venue—it’s a *vibe*. This place isn’t just pretty; it’s ridiculously gorgeous. It’s the kind of venue that makes you stop and say, “Wow, this is exactly what I imagined when I pictured my dream wedding.” Whether you’re into whimsical charm, timeless romance, or just want a venue that does all the heavy lifting when it comes to looking amazing, Airlie Gardens has you covered. Here’s why this spot is basically the holy grail of elopement venues:
It’s Drop-Dead Gorgeous
Airlie Gardens is a botanical wonderland with 67 acres of lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss. It’s like Mother Nature woke up and said, “You know what? I’m going to outdo myself today.” Every corner of this place is stunning, which means you can’t take a bad photo here—even if you try.
Iconic Ceremony Spots
Airlie Gardens has no shortage of jaw-dropping ceremony locations:
- Minnie Evans Bottle Chapel: A colorful and quirky work of art that’s perfect for intimate ceremonies (and makes for some seriously cool photos).
- Airlie Oak Lawn: Home to a 500-year-old live oak that looks like it came straight out of a Southern romance novel.
- Pergola Garden: A dreamy garden with seasonal blooms and a coquina pergola that’s perfect for couples who want to feel like royalty.
- Bradley Creek Lawn: If waterfront views are your thing, this wide-open lawn overlooking the creek is calling your name.
Basically, no matter where you say “I do,” it’s going to look amazing.
Conveniently Amazing
Airlie Gardens is just minutes from downtown Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, so you can turn your elopement into a full-on destination experience. Want to hit the beach after your ceremony? Easy. Need a cute downtown spot for dinner? Done. It’s the best of both worlds—natural beauty and city charm all rolled into one.
It Fits Every Style
Whether you’re going for boho vibes, classic elegance, or something totally unique, Airlie Gardens has a way of making it work. Want romantic portraits under mossy oaks? Done. Dreaming of whimsical shots by the Bottle Chapel? Easy. This place is like a chameleon—it adapts to whatever vision you have in mind (and then makes it even better).
They’ve Got Your Back
The staff at Airlie Gardens is next-level awesome. Not only do they keep the grounds looking pristine, but they’re also there to make sure your day runs smoothly. Case in point: when the staff drove us around during Devon and Robin’s elopement so we didn’t melt into puddles. That kind of service? Priceless.
Perfect for Intimate Weddings
If you’re planning an elopement or small wedding, Airlie Gardens is ideal. You can rent the space by the hour for smaller ceremonies while still getting access to all its stunning backdrops. It’s intimate without feeling cramped—perfect for couples who want something low-key but still totally magical.
It’s Timeless (Like Your Love)
Airlie Gardens isn’t just pretty—it’s historic. This place has been around forever (okay, not *forever*, but long enough) and has hosted countless love stories over the years. When you get married here, you’re becoming part of its legacy—and let’s be honest, that’s pretty cool.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for an elopement venue that checks every box—gorgeous scenery, convenient location, and all the romantic vibes—Airlie Gardens is it. Whether you’re exchanging vows under ancient oaks or striking poses by the Bottle Chapel, this place will make your wedding day unforgettable (and give you photos that’ll blow everyone away). Devon and Robin nailed it with their choice—and so can you! Learn more about eloping in Wilmington, NC.
A Full-Service Elopement Experience
Devon and Robin’s day wasn’t without its hiccups (looking at you, flat tire), but that’s where having an experienced elopement photographer comes in handy. From running errands to calming nerves to capturing every beautiful moment—I’m here to make sure your day is as stress-free as possible.
If you’re ready to plan your own unforgettable Airlie Gardens elopement, get in touch with me. Let’s create some magic together!
