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THE VENUE GUIDE

Donovan Manor Wedding venue

A local wedding photographer’s perspective of this Elegant mansion! Donovan Manor is where timeless elegance meets modern charm, and it’s a wedding couple’s dream come true.

A EUROPEAN DREAM RIGHT IN NC

Donovan Manor is a BRAND NEW wedding venue in Fuquay-Varina near Raleigh, North Carolina.   A grand estate that exudes sophistication, every corner of this venue tells a story of romance and grace.

I heard about Donovan Manor through the excited wedding community, a new truly elegant space put together by the already  experienced team at Donovan’s Dish (a well known catering company in the local industry)!

This expansive, private 15-acre estate, located just 10 miles from downtown Raleigh practices what it preaches, and that’s effortless elegance.

More than just a venue, Donovan Manor is a stunning backdrop for your event. The stage is set for the day of your dreams with the romantic balconies, iconic curved staircases, and the natural beauty of our grounds including railroad trestles, large oak trees, and a scenic winding creek.

Donovan Manor has recently undergone an exquisite renovation, introducing a host of new features that elevate its charm to new heights.

Additionally, the newly unveiled Garden Pavilion offers an enchanting setting for both ceremonies and receptions. This elegantly designed space features a glass-enclosed area that seamlessly merges with the surrounding gardens, creating an atmosphere of refined intimacy.

Donovan Manor Wedding Venue FEATURED Event

BROWSE A FEW OF EVENTS AT DONOVAN MANOR FOR HOW THINGS LOOK AND FLOW 

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ROOM JUST FOR GETTING READY

The expanded bridal suite is a standout addition, designed with the bride’s comfort and elegance in mind.

With its plush seating area, floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views, and a private terrace, the suite is a serene sanctuary where the bride can prepare for her big day in style. The space is adorned with soft, neutral tones and luxurious fabrics, providing the perfect backdrop for capturing those intimate pre-wedding moments.

FAQ

A FEW OF THE MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SHOOTING WEDDINGS AT Donovan Manor.

Should we both get ready at Donovan Manor

There is a beautiful bridal suite that will be perfect for getting your hair and makeup done, along with getting dressed in the most beautiful natural light.  For your partner, there is plenty of space downstairs, or in the new Ballroom currently, and it can be nice to all be in the same place and not have to worry about traveling throughout the day.

Where do you recommend taking our formal portraits here?

The grounds are beautiful all around, but some of my favorites include the front lawn area and in front of the home, as well as on the staircase.  I’m looking forward to the finished gardens and ballroom area as well!

What time should we schedule our ceremony to begin?

It depends on when the sunset is during your date, which I can give you a custom recommendation when you inquire.  However, typically around 5:30pm is a good general first guess here.  There are things to take into account like if you’d like to do a first look or not that will also be a factor!

What’s the most important factor when it comes to getting great photos?

Besides having a great photographer, I’d say natural light and ample time for photographs are going to be your two biggest factors for gorgeous photographs.  That’s why Donovan Manor is one of my top recommended venues. Their team is immaculate, and the landscape is built to prioritize natural light.

HI, I'M RAE

GET TO KNOW THE PHOTOGRAPHER

Hey, my name is Rae and I’m a natural light photographer of 16+ years who has fallen in love with my city of Raleigh and the wonderful people I get to work with here in the wedding industry.

If you haven’t noticed, I’m a big fan of The Bradford. Of course it is a wedding photographer dream with the images that come out of a Bradford wedding, but also the people there are so professional, kind, and very good at making magic come to life.  I would love to hear more about your wedding day here!

THE HEART

behind the photos

Luxurious details, sweeping tablescapes, they’re all great. I love em too.

But the reason I’m passionate about weddings is because of the unplanned moments.  I look back on my own wedding day and cherish  the people that showed up for me, the surprising tears and the wild dance floor tricks that maybe weren’t gonna be featured on a big wedding publication, but that make me smile.

I’ve photographed weddings in different languages, on an island, in the South, in New York, in LA… and here’s what I’ve learned is always true.

At the end of the day, weddings are always about humans at our best, celebrating ourselves and the people we love. 

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