To the Wilmington wedding vendor community—wow, you all outdid yourselves this time! Courtyards & Cobblestones is an annual event that allows engaged couples to tour local wedding venues styled by local wedding planners and executed by all local florists, rental companies, caterers, bakers, photographers, and more! Although Caleb and I have already said, “I do,” we attended and took it all in, from Boombalatti’s homemade ice cream to Edward Teach beers. We were not the only ones using it as a date night either; so many couples were there to enjoy the local vendors and beautiful scenery.

Since we moved back to Virginia, I have desperately missed coastal Carolina. When I heard about Courtyards & Cobblestones, I asked Caleb if we could make a trip down for my birthday. Because he is the BEST, he said yes! So we made our way down 95 to the area that we so dearly love. It was our first night away from our sweet baby girl. While we missed her, it was so nice to have time with Caleb.

The first stop we made was at Wrightsville Manor. There was a neutral color palette of beige, ivory, and sage green. The ceremony area was stationed around a large, arching arbor with the seating in a circle, what a cool idea! I had seen this set up on Pinterest before, but never in real life. The outdoor reception area had a cigar cutting station (again, how unique?!) and leather outdoor seating, perfect for a fall wedding. 

Next, we traveled to the Brooklyn Arts Center. I had no idea that we were about to basically see three venue spaces in one! First, we traveled to the patio area. It was open and comfortable. The seating was perfect for a summer wedding cocktail hour.

Next, we went to the main reception space, known as “The Church”. When I say this space is breathtaking, I am not exaggerating. When we walked into the space, I literally stopped in my tracks at the sight of the ornate florals and place settings at the main dining table. It felt and looked like the inside of a Disney princess castle. Initially I said Belle’s castle, but I think it was a little too much pink for Belle, so maybe it was Sleeping Beauty’s castle instead. Regardless, it was show stopping! My second favorite part about this venue was the sushi poke bowl station. Each guest was able to make their own bowl with whatever ingredients they pleased!

Lastly, we traveled upstairs to see an equally beautiful space with a much simpler vibe called “The Annex”. The color palette was white and a dusty blue, which I love! The hardwood floors gave a rustic feel to the overall space. It was also divided into smaller rooms, which would allow guests to decide how they wanted to spend their time at your reception.

We then ventured into the heart of downtown to Bakery 105. I had toured this venue once before and loved the whitewashed brick wall in the back of the reception space. This time, this area was filled with a live band, The Midatlantic! The florals were burgundy and red with gold and blush accents throughout. This space also has an outdoor courtyard area where an intimate ceremony space was set up.

Our last stop was just across the street at 128 South. This venue has indoor and outdoor spaces as well. The outdoor space faces the Cape Fear River, which is absolutely gorgeous in the daylight. Because this was the last stop on our tour, we had to try the dessert…they had a cotton candy machine! Once again, how unique and memorable.

I can only imagine the time, care, and attention to detail it took to plan this event for the public. It was one of the most well-planned and intricate events I have ever attended. Without a doubt, the engaged couples of Wilmington left with some fabulous resources and beautiful memories. I am truly grateful for the night out with my husband and appreciative of the experience we were given!