Saturday, June 19th we had the privilege of celebrating the macro wedding of Mary Chandler and Brandon. It was a blessing to be able to have a beautiful wedding to commemorate such a loving and kind-hearted couple. It was a day to remember.
June 19th was a long time coming but well worth the wait. We first began working with the two in the summer of 2019 after Brandon proposed to Mary Chandler on Ocracoke (of course). Vacationing on Ocracoke has always been a treasured tradition for Mary Chandler’s family. She began visiting the island when she was only in diapers. The tradition continued throughout the years and Brandon soon joined in when he and Mary Chandler began dating. After becoming engaged in the summer of 2019, the two felt Ocracoke was their home away from home and perfect place to wed. While wedding planning with the sweet couple, we had discussed details of having a large event with family and friends from different stages of their lives so that they too could experience the Ocracoke Mary and Brandon loved. Plans being discussed included a beach week and enjoying all the activities the island has to offer. Unfortunately, the global pandemic COVID-19 impacted those plans. In an intimate wedding ceremony in June 2020, Mary Chandler and Brandon were able to proceed with their exchange of vows before their immediate family. It was a joyous occasion, despite the circumstances, and they were able to officially become husband and wife. While discussing different options for an Ocracoke wedding, Mary and Brandon chose to postpone their macro celebration to 2021 with the support of their family and friends. This past weekend, we were finally able to celebrate the two with all of their guests in attendance. Mary and Brandon’s joyous event began with a special blessing followed by dinner, dancing, and drinks. The blessing took place on the Berkley grounds in front of the historic Manor. Following the ceremony, guests gathered by the Berkley Barn for a delicious meal prepared by Ocracoke’s Fess Winstead. Dinner included BBQ, BBQ chicken, ribs, mac and cheese, cole slaw, hush puppies, and baked beans. Vegetarian options were provided by Sorella’s. Brooke and Nick performed acoustic music on the lawn for the first two hours followed by DJ Tommy Hutcherson spinning the tunes for the remainder of the evening. It was a beautiful event with options for guests to dine inside the Barn or outside underneath a sun-kissed sky. The dance floor was popular all evening with guests of all ages breaking down moves throughout the night. Working with Mary and Brandon, you can see where their sweet, kind-hearted personalities come from. Their families are equally loving and such a pleasure to work with. It was a rewarding feeling being able to witness the two celebrate this unique experience among a wonderful group of people. After two years of planning, it will be sad to hold back from communicating. An anniversary party will have to be in the works.
We’d like to extend a big congratulations to Mary Chandler and Brandon on beginning this next chapter as husband and wife. We’d also like to thank all of the local and nearby vendors who helped make this event a success. The saying goes “it takes a village.” Here on Ocracoke our island is made up of the best and most creative professionals. We are appreciative of everyone’s support and look forward to the next event.
