Business Details
40 Years
experience
Your Trusted NC Wedding Planning Guide
Heart of NC Weddings has been a trusted resource for North Carolina couples since 1986, originally founded as Southern Bride and Groom by Donna Parks. Our mission combines connecting engaged couples with local vendors while supporting small businesses in the event industry. As a family-run business, we transitioned to our current name in 2019 to better reflect our inclusive approach to wedding planning. Since 2020, we've operated as part of Triangle Media Partners, maintaining our commitment to community-driven content. Our team of wedding experts provides curated vendor directories, real wedding features, and planning guides to help couples create personalized celebrations.With decades of combined experience, we offer both print and digital resources to accommodate modern planning needs. Our editorial team regularly updates content with practical advice on venues, vendors, and wedding trends specific to North Carolina. We maintain strong relationships with local businesses to ensure quality recommendations across all wedding-related categories. Our office in Chapel Hill serves as a central hub for couples planning weddings in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, and beyond.
Services
Wedding Planning Resources
Vendor Directories
Event Listings
Real Wedding Features
Digital Magazine
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- 38 years of experience connecting NC couples with quality vendors
- Curated directory of vetted local wedding professionals
- Free print and digital planning resources since 1986
- Family-run business with deep community connections
- Regularly updated real wedding features and planning tips
What people say
Trusted local resource
Curated vendor selections
Helpful planning tools
Beautiful real weddings
Responsive team
Services
Wedding Planning Resources
Heart of NC Weddings provides comprehensive planning resources including timelines, budget templates, and checklists. Our materials help couples organize every aspect of their wedding from initial planning through the big day. These resources are designed by experienced wedding professionals to ensure practicality and effectiveness.
Vendor Directories
Our curated vendor directories feature pre-vetted local businesses across all wedding categories. Each listing includes detailed profiles with contact information, service descriptions, and pricing guidelines. Vendors undergo a selection process to ensure quality and reliability for engaged couples.
Real Wedding Features
We showcase real weddings from across North Carolina with detailed feature stories and professional photography. These features provide inspiration while demonstrating practical implementation of wedding designs. Each story includes vendor credits and planning insights.
Event Listings
Our event calendar includes wedding shows, open houses, and trunk shows throughout North Carolina. These events allow couples to meet vendors, see venues, and explore services in person. Listings include dates, locations, and specific event details.
Digital Magazine
The digital magazine offers accessible wedding planning content with interactive features and updated information. It includes vendor showcases, planning tips, and regional wedding trends. Available for free online with searchable functionality for easy navigation.
People
Jenna Parks
Multimedia Publisher + Director of Client Digital Strategy
Jenna Parks leads digital strategy and client relations at Heart of NC Weddings. With over 15 years in the business, she transitioned from traditional print media to digital platforms. She focuses on connecting couples with local vendors through innovative content strategies.
Meagan Culkin
Associate Publisher
Meagan Culkin manages business development and vendor partnerships. She works closely with local businesses to ensure quality service standards. Her background in event coordination helps maintain practical relevance in vendor selections.
Morgan Cartier Weston
Multimedia Content Director + Executive Editor
Morgan Cartier Weston oversees content creation and editorial direction. With expertise in digital media, she ensures engaging and informative wedding planning resources. She manages the team responsible for real wedding features and planning guides.
Renee Ambroso
Managing Editor
Renee Ambroso coordinates editorial content and manages publication schedules. She ensures accuracy and relevance in all published materials. Her experience in journalism contributes to maintaining high editorial standards across platforms.
Melissa Cooley
Account Executive
Melissa Cooley handles client accounts and advertising partnerships. She works with vendors to develop effective marketing strategies within the wedding industry. Her focus is on creating mutually beneficial partnerships that enhance value for couples and businesses.
Questions
How do I find local wedding vendors through Heart of NC Weddings?
Browse our online vendor directory by category or location. Each listing includes contact information and service details for easy connection with local professionals.
Are the featured vendors officially endorsed by Heart of NC Weddings?
We personally vet all featured vendors for quality and reliability, but recommend interviewing multiple providers to find your best match.
Can I access the wedding magazine digitally?
Yes, our full magazine is available in digital format online for free with interactive features and searchable content.
Do you offer wedding planning services directly?
We provide planning resources and vendor connections but recommend hiring professional planners for personalized coordination services.
How often are the event listings updated?
Our event calendar receives regular updates with new wedding shows, open houses, and vendor events across North Carolina monthly.
Can I submit my wedding for feature consideration?
We welcome real wedding submissions through our online form with photos and planning details for potential publication.
