May 30, 2025
Submitted by Sarah D’Ambra PHOTOgraphy | Interviewed by HADLEY SHOAF
For Sarah and Joe, the Outer Banks has always been a part of their story. Since the 80s, the bride’s family has owned a home in Corolla, NC. Here, she remembers some of her fondest childhood memories. In college, the couple both worked in Corolla, Joe working for the area’s famous horseback riding tours. It seemed only natural that the couple get married at a venue that was just as special as the idyllic town of Corolla had been to them. So, they landed on the Whalehead Club for both their ceremony and reception. Just down the road from the bride’s family’s beach house, the grounds of the Whalehead Club was a property that Sarah had frequented in her youth for sunset strolls and childhood play. The location features beautiful sunsets and a picturesque view of the Currituck Lighthouse. “We wanted to show off Corolla,” Sarah commented on their choice to exchange vows at the Whalehead Club, “and we thought that was the perfect place to do it.”
On the day of the wedding, Sarah D’Ambra Photography was responsible for capturing the intimacies and celebrations of the matrimony. “She is amazing,” Sarah said about her photographer. She particularly noted the easy-going and comfortable energy Sarah D’Ambra brought to the portrait shoots and her ability to capture authentic, beautiful candids. “She was an absolute professional.”
The bride made sure to commend the professionals who partook in all of the wedding day intricacies. DJ Bruce performed at the outdoor reception, playing a mix of music for all generations, which lent itself to the vivacious energy and spirit on the dance floor. Renee Landry designed the floral arrangements for the day, her talent explained as “magical” by the bride. For couples planning their wedding in the Outer Banks, Sarah seriously advises staying local and hiring professionals that are familiar with the area in the planning process. “They all know each other so they collaborate and work so well together,” she says. She was also careful to mention that “Something probably will go wrong on your wedding. It might be big or small but having the right professionals and planners and having your friends and family there, it will still be such a perfect magical moment no matter what!”
Wedding Location
Corolla, NC
Ceremony & Reception
Whalehead Club
Coordinator/Planner
Southern Hospitality Weddings and Events
Rentals
Amaranth and Artifact,
OBX Bright Booth,
Curated E vents Chesapeake,
Pretty Little Things
Caterer/Bar Services
Red Sky Catering
Cake
Almost Heaven Bakery
Florals
Renee Landry Events
Hair
Lovies Salon
Makeup
Kelly Ives,
OBX Makeup Artist
Photographer
Sarah D’Ambra Photography
Music
(Ceremony & Reception)
DJ Bruce
