A Cozy, Christmas-Inspired Wedding at Childress Vineyards in Lexington, NC

Some weddings just feel like the season they’re in, and this Christmas-themed celebration at Childress Vineyards in Lexington, North Carolina, was exactly that. From glowing lights to festive details woven throughout the day, every part of this wedding felt intentional, warm, and full of joy. Since Christmas is the bride’s favorite time of year, the holiday inspiration wasn’t just decor, it was the heart of the day.

A Romantic Wine Cellar Ceremony

The ceremony took place downstairs in the Childress Vineyards wine cellar, and it was truly magical. The chandeliers cast a soft glow over the space, while illuminated Christmas trees added warmth and sparkle. The atmosphere was intimate and cozy, perfect for an early December wedding. The cellar’s stone walls and candlelit ambiance made the ceremony feel both elegant and inviting.

A First Look and Winter Portraits Outdoors

The couple chose to do a first look, which gave them a quiet moment together before the ceremony and allowed the day to flow smoothly. Despite it being early December, we lucked out with the weather. It wasn’t terribly cold. This meant we were able to capture all of their portraits outside on the beautiful grounds at Childress Vineyards.

The vineyard provided a stunning backdrop for winter portraits, with soft light, open views, and just enough seasonal chill to make everything feel crisp and romantic without being uncomfortable.

A Festive and Thoughtful Reception Design

The reception decor was nothing short of incredible and truly embraced the Christmas theme in a fun, elevated way. Guests were welcomed by a human-sized nutcracker, which instantly set a playful and festive tone. One of the sweetest touches was a “Cookies for Santa” photo station designed especially for the kids, a detail that brought smiles to guests of all ages.

The dessert display was a standout feature of the evening. An impressive and varied dessert table by Nothing Bundt Cakes offered something for everyone and fit perfectly with the cozy, celebratory vibe of the night. Christmas-inspired florals, fairy lights, and warm accents were woven throughout the space. This made the entire reception feel inviting, joyful, and full of seasonal charm.

A Perfect Blend of Elegance and Holiday Magic

This wedding was a beautiful example of how a holiday theme can feel timeless and sophisticated while still being fun and personal. Childress Vineyards provided the perfect setting, from the romantic wine cellar ceremony to the scenic outdoor portraits and festive reception space.

If you’re dreaming of a winter wedding in North Carolina or considering Childress Vineyards in Lexington, NC as your venue, this celebration shows just how magical a Christmas-inspired wedding can be when thoughtful details and a meaningful setting come together.

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Here is what Emily had to say leading up to her wedding:

1. What are you most looking forward to on the day? 
Finally becoming husband and wife!

2. What inspired your wedding décor? Did you have a theme in mind? 
Christmas

3. Why did you pick the venues that you chose, and what is your favorite feature about your wedding venue? 
We fell in love with Childress when we saw it. We wanted something where everything could be on one property, but still feel like we were moving around. They also decorate for Christmas, which is the theme of our wedding. It is just so beautiful and elegant. We knew it was the place as soon as we found it. 

4. What is your favorite feature about your wedding venue? 
The exterior. It feels like you’re being transported out of North Carolina into a vineyard in Italy.  

5. Is there any particular vendor that you are really excited to have for your day? 
We hired a live wedding painter, which we are so excited about. We are so excited to have a piece of art capturing our day. 

6. Tell us about the food/drink at your wedding. 
All drinks will be wine and beer. The dinner will be an option of steak, chicken, or salmon, and appetizers during cocktail hour.

7. Which part of your wedding did you want to WOW your guests? 
The decor. Not only are we bring in tons of candles and flowers, but Childress also decorates for Christmas which will add to the magic. I can’t wait to see it all put together. 

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Here are a few of our favorites from Emily and Daniel’s Childress Vineyards wedding:

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Shout Out to the Amazing Vendor Team!

📸 @delongphotography⁠
📽️ @honeydewfilms⁠
📍 @childresswines⁠
🥘 @childresswines⁠
💐 @brookside_flowers⁠
🍰 @nothingbundtcakes⁠
🎵 @splitsecondsound / @vinnysplit⁠
🎨 @kaitlinfunkhouserart

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While you’re at it, see other recent weddings, click here! 👈

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Our goal is for our client’s experience to be enjoyable and comfortable. From the beginning, our couples know they don’t have to worry about stiff or awkward posing. We believe in celebrating the moments you feel the most like yourself.

We are Charlotte, North Carolina, wedding photographers who love creating classic, timeless, and emotional photographs for kind people. Not getting married in NC? No problem! We often travel for weddings and portrait sessions around the country, including Charleston, SC, and Atlanta, GA. To find details regarding upcoming travel dates to a city near you or book a custom travel session, contact us here!

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