For Mackin and Taylor, Wilmington was more than just where they met—it became the heart of their love story. They first crossed paths at a Greek life event at UNC Wilmington, and from that moment, their journey began. After dating for several years, there was no question that Wilmington was where they would say "I do."
Mackin’s proposal was intimate and sentimental. "It was just the two of us on the beach, and when he got down on one knee, I couldn’t believe it was actually happening," Taylor recalls. "Afterward, celebrating with our friends at the beach house made it even more special." After a lovely dinner, they took a quiet stroll on the beach, and under the night sky, Mackin asked the question that would change their lives forever.
The morning after their engagement, the couple spent the day envisioning their wedding. "I remember walking through the gardens, holding hands, and just dreaming about what our wedding could look like," Taylor says. "When we stepped into Lebanon Chapel, we knew instantly that it was perfect for us." Nestled among lush greenery and bursting with seasonal florals, the venue was the perfect reflection of their love story. They carried the floral theme throughout the wedding, from Taylor’s embroidered veil to the wedding cake.
Wedding dress shopping was a cherished moment for Taylor. "I had a vision in my head of something really classic and simple, but nothing was giving me that feeling I thought I’d have," she shares. "Then my sister picked out a dress with a floral-detailed top, and when I put it on, everyone started crying—I knew it was the one." She completed her look with a long floral appliqué veil, a breathtaking contrast to the chapel’s elegance.
On April 29, 2023, surrounded by family and friends, the couple exchanged vows in a ceremony that felt like a dream. "It was all such a rush! I remember the sunlight streaming in, the sound of birds chirping, and then suddenly, we saw Rosie standing in the aisle looking at us," Taylor laughs. "We both couldn’t stop smiling."
The wedding party embraced a sophisticated yet vibrant color palette. The bridesmaids wore light blue, one-shoulder gowns perfect for a spring wedding, while the groomsmen donned classic black tuxedos. Mackin wore his own tuxedo, looking sharp for the big day.
The festivities continued at Cape Fear Country Club, where guests enjoyed a cocktail hour with live music and delicious hors d’oeuvres. Instead of a formal seated dinner, they opted for food stations, including a seafood bar, beef tenderloin, and the much-loved "Mackin Cheese" station with gourmet mac and cheese toppings.
As the night kicked off, the couple shared their first dance to Beyoncé’s Halo, a moment they’ll never forget. "Dancing with Mackin to that song, surrounded by everyone we love, was the most surreal feeling," Taylor says. "Then the party really started—Sol Fusion was absolutely amazing!" The band kept the energy high with a fun, modern playlist. Mackin’s dad even jumped on stage to dance, and Taylor’s sorority sisters serenaded her with a special song.
This wedding was a perfect blend of elegance, personality, and joy. From the floral-filled chapel ceremony to the high-energy dance party, every detail reflected the couple’s love story. With Wilmington as their backdrop and their closest loved ones by their side, they created a celebration as boldly beautiful as their love.
THE VENDOR TEAM
PLANNER | IVY ROBINSON EVENTS FLORIST | KELLY ODOM flowers Photographer | Katheryn jeanne photography Videographer | thomas blake films | band | sol fusion | ceremony venue | Lebanon Chapel at the Airlie gardens reception venue | Cape Fear country club cake | One Belle Bakery printed materials | arzberger stationers wedding dress | aniolique bridal beauty | looklove beauty
*While we didn’t have the honor of capturing Taylor and Mackin's wedding with our content creation services, we’re thrilled to feature their beautiful day here to inspire other couples.*
Comments