JUNE 7, 2025
Submitted by NATALIE HEIM PHOTOGRAPHY | Interviewed by HADLEY SHOAF
It was Caitlin who introduced her now husband Kyle to the beauty of the Outer Banks. The bride spent a large part of her life traveling to the Carolina coast for family summer vacations. Vacations that, as time went on, Kyle eventually joined. Raised in Dallas, Texas, the Outer Banks wasn’t a familiar destination for the groom but, as his relationship with Caitlin developed, so did his love for the banks. So much so, that the couple decided it was here that they would say “I do”.
Both the ceremony and reception were held at the Sanderling Resort in Duck. The venue featured both indoor and outdoor spaces for the reception and an intimate oceanfront location for the ceremony. Natalie Heim Photography was responsible for capturing the events of the day and turning them into tangible memories. Caitlin commended the photographer’s ability to guide posing and give natural directions to achieve the perfect shot.
The team at the Proper Setting worked closely with the couple in the months leading up to the day. With the bride and groom living out-of-state, Caitlin stressed the importance of having knowledgeable professionals based in the area who know all that exists beyond a web search. The couple hoped to have a raw oyster bar at their wedding, an aspiration that appeared challenging when trying to coordinate from across state lines. The Proper Setting was able to make this wish a reality by partnering with Cousin’s Oysters to deliver an authentic, fresh, raw oyster bar, a detail that guests raved about long after the oysters were gone.
While family and friends traveled from as far as Dallas, Texas to celebrate the couple, there was one important family member who wasn’t in attendance. Berkley, the couple’s golden doodle, was unable to travel for the festivities, yet Caitlin knew he had to be incorporated somehow. So a specialty cocktail was named “The Berkley” after their pup and the bride had custom koozies made with Berkley’s scruffy mug and wagging tail for guests.
Caitlin emphasizes the importance of hiring a wedding planner as early as possible in the planning process, particularly for couples planning from out of town. Being distanced from vendors and venues can pose a real challenge for those organizing any event, but having seasoned professionals who know the area inside and out makes everything feel as though it’s within arm’s reach.
Wedding Location
Duck, NC
Ceremony, Reception
and Accommodations
The Sanderling Resort
Coordinator/Planner
The Proper Setting
Rentals
Ocean Atlantic Event Rentals
& Renee Landry Events
Caterer
The Sanderling Resort
& Cousins Oysters
Cake
Almost Heaven Bakery
Florals
Flower Girls OBX
Hair & Makeup
Veil and Vanity
Photographer
Natalie Heim Photography
Music (Ceremony & Reception)
Coastal DJ
