Jess and Allison’s Winter Wedding Day

Allison and Jess’s beautiful winter wedding at The Cotton Mill in Durham was an emotional celebration full of love and laughter. Their love story started when Allison was a grad student at Dartmouth and Jess was coaching field hockey there. In just one year, they created so many memories together from hiking and field hockey games to long walks with Jess’s sweet pup Honey.

After their first year together, Jess moved to Durham for a new job, and Allison followed a year later after graduating. It didn’t take long for North Carolina to feel like home, and it’s where they both knew they certainly wanted to start their next chapter. Jess proposed first in October 2023 at the Raleigh Rose Garden, and Allison surprised her with a proposal of her own two months later, this time back on Dartmouth’s campus. Jess didn’t think Allison had the ring yet (a change of pants gave it away!), but the surprise was still perfect, especially with her parents there to witness it.

Durham Wedding at The Cotton Room

Their wedding weekend in Durham was thoughtfully planned to welcome friends and family from all over the country. I’m so honored to have also photographed their rehearsal dinner at the Champion’s Club at Duke, where guests got a tour of the basketball court and facility. It was such a cool and memorable experience, for myself and their guests of course!

On the wedding day, snow from earlier in the week still dusted the ground. It was so magical! Their first look was so sweet and set the tone for a heartfelt ceremony. Allison’s brother officiated and did an incredible job telling their story and engaging every guest in the room.

The Cotton Mill’s historic charm and soft winter light created the dreamiest backdrop for their portraits and celebration. It was the perfect setting for such a warm and personal day. Allison and Jess, it was such an honor to document this weekend for you both! Thank you so much for trusting us with the honor of telling your love story! Congratulations again!

See more of some of my favorite images and moments from their sweet winter wedding day at The Cotton Room in Durham on the blog below!

Thank you to all their amazing vendors who made this day possible! It was truly a DREAM team of vendors!!

See more weddings on the blog!

Allison and Jess’ Spring Engagement Session at Duke Gardens

Winter Wedding at The Cotton Room | Abbie and Adam

Winter Wedding at Merrimon-Wynne | Sarah and Nate

White Point Gardens Charleston Elopement | Matthew and Trevor