There’s a quiet kind of magic that comes with a cozy winter wedding at Vesuvius Vineyards… just imagine the crisp air, the stillness of the countryside, and the soft light that wraps everything in a cozy glow. Nikki and Archie’s day was the perfect mix of warmth and emotion, the kind of wedding that makes you forget the chill in the air because love (and laughter) kept everyone warm.

Nikki and Archie met at a Halloween party in Charlotte back in 2020 and an instant connection turned into something lasting. They love to travel, to laugh, and spend time with their adorable dog, Raven. We first met them for their cozy fall engagement session in Fourth Ward Charlotte and instantly fell in love with their energy.

From the start, Nikki and Archie were clear about one thing: they wanted their day to feel real. No stiff poses or rushing from one thing to the next. They cared most about candid photos that reflected the genuine emotion of the day. They wanted to be fully present with their people, soaking in every hug, every laugh, every happy tear. And that’s exactly how their wedding unfolded.

A Cozy Winter Wedding Morning

Nikki and Archie decided to utilize the getting ready spaces inside the historic home at Vesuvius Vineyards. The morning started slow and full of anticipation as Nikki got ready surrounded by her closest friends. Overall though, things were pretty relaxed and included miniature dance parties and sing-alongs (at least on Nikki’s side :P). Archie and his friends sipped some bourbon as they dressed.

When it was time, Nikki hitched a ride on the venue golf cart to head over to the iconic covered bridge where she would share a First Look with Archie and they would exchange private vows. Away from all others, just the two of them, it was heartfelt and raw. You could feel the weight of their words, the years they’d already spent together, and the excitement for what’s ahead.

A Winter Wedding Ceremony on the Lawn

The Vesuvius Vineyards historic home was lovely backdrop for this cozy winter wedding. Nikki and Archie provided blankets for their guests and everyone gathered on the lawn as the couple said their vows on the front steps. The ceremony was filled with personal stories, smiles, and laughter and Nikki even did a cute little happy dance after they said “I Do”.

A Warm Winter Reception

A high energy reception was the perfect way to stay warm for Nikki and Archie’s winter celebration. The dance floor filled up, and the energy never dropped. Taylor Swift’s “Love Story” was the song of the night and the only time Nikki and Archie weren’t dancing was when we pulled them away for a few creative night portraits. At the end of the night, Nikki and Archie shared a sparkler exit in the crisp winter air and their friends cheered as they ran through the tunnel of sparklers, laughing the entire way.

Venue: Vesuvius Vineyards | Catering: Best Impressions Caterers | Florist: Ling’s Moment | Hair and Makeup: Megan Oliveri Artistry | Videographer: Branches Wedding Co. | Officiant: Father Kevin Daly | Wedding Dress Designer and Source: Winnie Couture | Bridesmaid’s Dresses Designer and Source: Azazie | Groom and Groomsmen Tuxes: Jos. A. Bank