A Day with Dad

My dad has a knack for finding some unique and gorgeous places. He enjoys "getting lost" in hopes of finding something great. He stumbled upon Cataloochee Ranch close to 20 years ago and started to take myself and my sisters up there for getaways. I have fond memories of sledding in the snow down hills that were totally extreme in my childish perception. Looking back at the time we spent sitting around a dinner table with people we just met, waking up to a huge fire in a homey atmosphere, and trotting down a mountain side on the back of a horse, I realize what incredible moments we had there together. 

My dad and I recently went back to visit for a night, that being the first time we had been to the ranch in at least 6 years. We drove in on their gravel driveway, past the stables, and began to reminisce. After we got settled into our cozy quarters, we went out and began to hike the property as the glorious evening light started to settle in the crevices of the surrounding mountains. Our route was nothing intricately planned, but rather just us two wandering about seeking places we had never seen on the property before. What our eyes were greeted with was something words cannot describe… so you should check out the photos! 

Cataloocheeranch.com

Copyright // Karin Strickland // 2014

Maggy + Nolan

Maggy and Nolan are two of the kindest, most fun-loving folks I've ever had the pleasure of shooting for. On labor day weekend, I packed my camera bag and hit the road to Bryson City, NC for their beautiful outdoor wedding at Nantahala Villiage. I met up with Nolan and the groomsmen first who provided me with a good many laughs and goofy moments to capture, and then I dashed up to the top of a mountain to where Maggy was getting ready. Her dress and veil were simply elegant and classy with parts of them made with lace taken from her mothers wedding dress and veil. It was just Maggy, her mom, and myself (& fantastic assistant Mere) in the room while she was getting ready. It was very intimate and special to see the two of them interacting as she stepped in a dress laced (literally) with history and memories. Dark storm clouds loomed close above the mountains as we snapped some photos of Maggy and her bridesmaids who had patiently waited to see her in her incredible dress. The ceremony was filled with laughter, sweet moments, and not a drop of rain.

The ceremony was the party of a lifetime. Their 6-piece live-band set the tone and became an irresistible invitation to dance floor. Maggy and Nolan danced the night away and were sent off through a cheering line of loving guests and bubbles floating through the air. 

Congrats you two. 

(Click the photos to scroll) Copyright // Karin Strickland