Stewart + Tyler

Refined Coastal Elegance | A Black-Tie Wedding at the Sanderling Resort’s Great Hall

Outer Banks Wedding Photographer for Elevated East Coast Celebrations

There’s a certain kind of wedding that feels effortless in its refinement — one that balances timeless tradition with organic warmth. That’s exactly what unfolded during this unforgettable black-tie wedding at the Sanderling Resort’s Great Hall on the Outer Banks.

With a guest list of 200 and an intentionally intimate wedding party, the celebration was both grand and grounded. Every element felt curated, but never overdone — from the bride’s sweeping off-the-shoulder ballgown to the groom’s sleek Gucci loafers, the tone of the day was formal, sophisticated, and deeply personal.

The ceremony took place under a glowing sunset at the Sanderling Resort’s Great Hall gazebo, one of the Outer Banks’ most picturesque coastal backdrops. As the evening light dipped below the horizon, guests gathered in anticipation of a celebration that honored tradition while embracing natural, thoughtful design.

Inside the reception space, the Great Hall was transformed with rich, earthy textures and warm lighting. Suspended brown kissing balls hung from the ceilings, echoing the organic atmosphere below. A massive greenery installationsoftened the vaulted space, complementing the X-backed brown chairs, wooden farm tables, and glowing candlelight that lined every table. Magnolia branches adorned the centerpieces — a subtle nod to the region’s Southern roots — creating a design that felt both rooted and refined.

This wasn’t just a wedding — it was a masterclass in how intentional design can elevate a formal event without overwhelming it. The couple prioritized guest experience and aesthetic harmony in every decision, resulting in a celebration that felt beautifully authentic and visually stunning.

As an Outer Banks wedding photographer who specializes in editorial storytelling for formal East Coast weddings, I’m drawn to events like this — where elegance and emotion go hand in hand. I don’t just capture the expected moments. I document the full arc of the day — from sweeping scenery to the subtle details that often go unnoticed but define the experience.

If you’re planning a black-tie wedding on the East Coast — whether at the Sanderling Resort or another elevated coastal venue — I’d love to help you preserve it with care, clarity, and timeless visual storytelling.