A spring wedding at a North Carolina ranch brought a perfect mix of bohemian elegance and rustic charm to the countryside. Soft pastel hues and wildflowers created a dreamy, whimsical atmosphere. Every detail reflected the couple’s laid-back spirit and love for natural beauty, from the flowing floral arrangements to the relaxed, intimate vibe. With breathtaking images captured by Natalia Bareka, the celebration seamlessly blended the couple’s love story with the ranch’s surrounding beauty, where nature seemed to inspire the entire day.
Location: Mocksville, North Carolina, USA
Style: Bohemian, whimsical, romantic
Time of planning: 1 year
Number of guests: 100
Setting: Ranch
Season: Spring
Shayna and Daniel’s love for God, the outdoors, and family created an unshakeable foundation for their relationship. They shared similar values and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures, and marrying at the ranch felt perfectly authentic. “Daniel and I are so similar,” Shayna shared. We love God, the outdoors, animals, family, and more. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner.”
Bridal Look & Groom's Fashion
The perfect dress was a surprise when Shayna found her dream gown at David’s Bridal. The off-shoulder design featured delicate florals and subtle sparkle that caught the light beautifully. “I was shocked because I was sure to go with one of my favorite designers like Vera Wang,” she shared. “But I realized when I tried it on that, it doesn’t matter what brand it is; the bride makes the dress.”
Vintage pearl earrings and loose, flowing curls completed her bohemian look, while her makeup artist created a glowing look with light gold shimmer and a nude lip. “I truly felt like a celebrity,” Shayna remembered.
Daniel chose a light blue tuxedo that made his eyes vibrant and bright, breaking from traditional darker shades. His signature man bun stayed, adding a personal touch that felt authentic to who he was.
Ceremony
The ceremony occurred under a towering, majestic tree that offered a natural canopy of shade, creating a serene and intimate atmosphere for the guests. White chairs were arranged in a semicircle around the couple, and the soft spring breeze added to the moment’s magic. The air was filled with blooming flowers as the couple exchanged vows before their closest friends and family. A perfect 72-degree day with clear skies set the stage for a ceremony that felt both timeless and deeply personal.
The day’s most touching moment came when Shayna’s five-year-old son walked her down the aisle in his miniature navy suit, matching the groomsmen. As they reached the front, he proudly told the preacher he gave permission to give his mother away—a heartfelt moment that brought tears to everyone’s eyes. “That will still make me tear up for years,” Shayna shared. For the bride, it was a memory she would forever treasure, as it reflected her new life with Daniel and her bond with her son, whose presence was such an essential part of the day.
Moment Alone
After the ceremony, the couple shared a quiet, private moment alone in the peaceful fields of the Koren Farms, taking in the beauty of the day and reflecting on their vows. Photographer Natalia Bareka captured this intimate moment with her signature artistry, preserving their soft light and tender connection. Her unobtrusive approach reflected this naturally, offering the couple a timeless reminder of their love.
"On a warm spring evening I had the privilege of capturing the love story of Shayna and Daniel. From the very first moment, I was captivated by their gentle, respectful connection—the kind of bond that radiates a rare and tender warmth."
Decor & Setting
The decor and setting perfectly embodied the couple’s bohemian vision, blending glowing charm with natural elegance. With the help of Tammy K Designs, the ranch’s wide open spaces were transformed into a whimsical wonderland with soft pastel florals and wildflower arrangements scattered throughout. Wooden tables were adorned with lace runners, vintage glassware, and candles that flickered as evening fell, adding warmth to the atmosphere.
Handmade name tags marked each place setting, while floral arrangements graced every table. Wine and champagne bottles wore elegant bows, and twinkling lights created a magical atmosphere as day turned to evening.
Reception
The newlyweds entered with “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” before sharing their first dance to Kenny Rogers—a moment they had practiced for three weeks. As they came up from their final dip, the bridal party showered them with confetti, setting a celebratory tone for the evening ahead.
"I wanted to feel like I was having a wedding in my backyard with people I knew who were just overdressed."
Dinner featured pasta for their favorite Disney movie, “Lady and the Tramp.” Thoughtful touches like coloring pages kept young guests entertained. Their blueberry lemon cake drew rave reviews, significantly when cut to “I Can’t Help Myself” by The Four Tops. The night peaked with ’80s classics filling the dance floor, with “Dancing Queen” becoming the unofficial anthem of their celebration.
"I had been looking forward to their wedding day, knowing it held something special, but witnessing Daniel’s love unfold in every soulful gaze towards Shayna was even more beautiful than I’d imagined. She looked breathtaking, her presence glowing with happiness."
Advice from the bride:
• Don’t stress! I found myself obsessing over wedding stuff, trying to make everything organized and perfect. Sit back, let people help, and enjoy your time with loved ones.
PHOTOGRAPHER Natalia Bareka | PLANNER & FLORALS Tammy K Designs | VENUE Koren Farms | DRESS David’s Bridal
