A Joyful Wedding at The Matthews House in Cary, NC: Gabriela & Shray
Multicultural weddings are rich, joyful, and nothing short of a good time.
For their celebration, Gabriela & Shray chose The Matthews House in Downtown Cary, NC. The day turned out to be a really good time and I truly believe the photos reflected the joy of the day.
The Matthews House in Cary: A Beautiful Space to Say “I Do”
Built in 1915, The Matthews House was primarily a private residence and home to several small-business owners, including a dressmaker, a salon owner, and a florist. Over the decades, it’s changed hands and purposes, but it's long stood as a historic landmark in Downtown Cary. And today, it serves as a premier wedding and event venue in Cary, especially for smaller celebrations (but it can accommodate larger gatherings too).
From the Grand Ballroom to the landscaped arbor and gardens, there are so many breathtaking spots to choose from. What’s even better is the diverse range of packages available for couples, including on-site catering, your own wedding coordinator, tables and chairs provided, and other additions. Most weddings at The Matthews House cost about $6,000–$7,000, depending on the season and which package you choose. Whatever you decide, it’s really easy to have an effortless wedding day at The Matthews House.
Getting Ready & Vows Exchanged in Front of Loved Ones
Gabriela & Shray’s day started inside the home with Gabriela getting ready in one of the upstairs rooms with the help of the team at Onyx Beauty her friends, and her parents, even buttoning up her Danielle Frankel dress. It was a marker for the entire day, which was filled with family and friends.
After an emotional first look, we transitioned to their ceremony outside in the lush garden. At the head of their ceremony space was a stunning floral arch of blooms in pinks, blushes, burgundy by Comfy Florals. Their ceremony blended together traditions from both their families, which was a really heartfelt way to honor their loved ones and include them in their ceremony. By the conclusion of their vows there wasn’t a dry eye in sight.
Unveiled by Debra planned the day beautifully, making transitions between cocktail hour, ceremony, and reception smooth and easy.
A Joyful Reception to Close Out the Day (With a Surprise Dance, Of Course)
The reception might’ve just been my favorite part of the day. Assigned seating was available on a hand-painted green-and-pink canvas with fun names for each table, including “You Make Miso Happy” and “My Butter Half.” Pickle fried chicken and drinks were served to guests during cocktail hour while Shray and Gabriela made their rounds, hugging everyone and sharing in the joy of the day.
After spending a bit of time mingling outside, we traveled over to the Grand Ballroom for the rest of the night, featuring high ceilings, large mirrors, gorgeous glass chandeliers, and lots of natural light (a photographer’s dream). The highlight of the reception, besides the heartfelt speeches, was probably the surprise dance for the groom, choreographed by Gabriela herself. It was so fun and a treat for everyone there. Another surprise was dessert from Andias Ice Cream, a personal favorite for Shray and Gabriela that holds so many memories for the duo.
Everyone then ended the night joining Gabriela & Shray on the dance floor to get down to some classic beats, thanks to 336 DJ’s.
From start to finish, this day was joyful and filled with warmth, and The Matthews House in Cary held every moment beautifully.
Having your wedding at The Matthews House in Cary
Just like Shray and Gabriela, you can plan your own wedding at The Matthews House in Cary.
Your wedding should feel like you and your photos should reflect that. As an East Coast wedding photographer, I love taking photos that feel natural, unposed, and perfectly you. When you get your photos back, I want you to remember exactly how every moment not only looked, but felt.
Inquire today for wedding photos that feel artful and authentic to you.