Katie Garrity & Ben Hulkower first met along their respective medical journeys thanks to a chance NYE encounter, only to fall in love for good, moving all along the country to strengthen their bond. Now resting in North Carolina, Katie & Ben opted to share their love for the gently rolling mountains with friends & family, at Claxton Farm, a place where the world could be seen 360 degrees. A natural rustic vibe was lent to the day, from farming details to homespun touches that were truly personal and close to the heart from both the couple’s grandparents. An electric palette of bold blue and orange was injected throughout, creating an energy and buzz. Soaking in that true southern laissez faire attitude, guests were invited to sip on craft beers while playing lawn games, taking in the views around them.
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Novella of the Bride…
Ben and I met through a chance encounter with a mutual friend on New Year’s Eve 2010. I was in nursing school at the time and he was in his first year of medical school. (I was certain when he told me this it was a lie and used purely as a pick-up line). The first year together we spent five and half hours apart due to the locations of our schools. The second year I finished my program and moved to the NC coast to where he was studying. After graduating we moved to Indianapolis, IN for his residency program. The day after we moved in to our home in Indianapolis we decided to explore the downtown area and were walking alongside the canal in White River State Park where he proposed.
We chose Claxton Farm because we felt it perfectly displayed the city we love so dearly. Claxton Farm offers a 360 degree view of the mountains while still providing seclusion for an intimate ceremony. I incorporated various items of my grandparents who have passed into my ensemble and bouquet, necklace and handkerchief of my grandmothers, Bell’s of Ireland in my bouquet for grandfather and use of a wooden toolbox in honor of my other grandfather. The groom will be wearing items of his grandfather’s and late uncle’s.
A Little Help From Their Friends ~ My aunt and mother crafted all decorations including the mantel aisle, wreaths, and favor table décor. Friend of the family: four kegs of personally crafted beer. Maid of honor: personally crafted red and white wines. Groom and father of groom built the pergola. Friend of the family arranged flowers. Friends and family decorated the venue.
Favorite Moments ~ Seeing all of the people I love gathered in one place and dancing without a care. I was especially thrilled to see my father-in-law dancing. I was even happier to see that Jen captured the moment in one of our photographs.
Vendor Love
Photographer: Jen Yuson Photography | Venue: Claxton Farm | Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal | Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal | Shoes: Seychelles | Hair: Lola Salon & Gallery | Makeup: Pop of Color | Groom’s Attire: J. Crew | Invitations: Loo Bird Press | Music: Bella Corda (Ceremony), Sound Extreme (DJ) | Florist: Flower Gallery | Caterer: M7 Events | Baker: Short Street Cakes