WEEKEND IN WILMINGTON, NC

This past weekend, I visited North Carolina for the first time and it did not disappoint! Weddings, friends, sunshine, the beach, count me in.

The first day was spent walking along the Riverwalk and checking out downtown Wilmington. We were staying near The Cotton Exchange the first night, which is an area full of shops and restaurants. We grabbed a bite at The Basics; Southern food and the best Pear Sangrias. While a few of our friends went to the rehearsal dinner, John and I went to the Intercostal and grabbed a drink at Fish House Grill. Patio seating right on the water, and the weather was perfect.

The Groom’s parents hosted a cocktail party for the out of town guests, so we attended this later in the evening downtown. The party was held at the Loft on Front, which was walking distance from our hotel. Walking home, we passed a spot called The Pour House. Self-poured wine, beer and cider. Everybody received a wrist band, and you scanned the band over whichever drink you wanted to try. You could try a sample or an entire glass, depending on how much you wanted to spend. It was like a frozen yogurt store but for drinks! I’m thinking Dallas needs to get one of these ASAP.

The next day was beach house day! We headed to our Air B&B in Wrightsville Beach, about 30 minutes from downtown. The house was amazing! There were 4 stories, 5 bedrooms including a loft, and it even had an elevator. Balconies were attached to each bedroom, and you were able to see the ocean from the front balcony.

As soon as we checked in, a few other friends who would be staying there drove up. We unpacked and headed to the coast to grab some food at Dockside. Blue crab and corn chowder, fried green tomato grilled cheese, margaritas… I was on vacation!

The wedding was in the early evening at Wrightsville Manor, which was an actual dream. Kathryn and Michael could not have chosen a prettier venue. The ceremony was held outdoors and the weather could not have been one degree better. I kept repeating that it was the most beautiful wedding I’ve ever been to! I’ll just let the pictures below speak for themselves.

The next morning, we all had breakfast tacos at Café Del Mar before soaking up the sun at Wrightsville Beach. We went to a local shop and stocked up on beach towels, sunscreen and a football to toss around.  It was the perfect beach day! A “former professional beach photographer” even took a group picture! LOL.

Wilmington, NC is a hidden gem, and I honestly don’t know how more people haven’t moved here. This city is the perfect mix of city and beach life. Kathryn and Michael, thank you for inviting us to your beautiful wedding and letting us experience Wilmington. I had the best time and I know I will be visiting again!