Yathelis Ayala-Gonzalez + Jesse Gutierrez

It’s a classic story. Born and raised in Moore County, Yathelis Ayala-Gonzalez and Jesse Gutierrez met at Pinecrest High School when they were searching for prom dates. Mutual friends introduced them and it was a match. Seven years later — to the day — the high school sweethearts married on June 7, 2025.

Following a surprise proposal and a spread laid out by Pinehurst Picnic Co., the couple selected Soirée on South for their wedding venue. They liked the intimacy of the space for their 60 guests to enjoy their ceremony and reception. Inspiration for the timeless event came from Pinterest and magazines like this one. The color scheme of the day was dusty blue, black and white, accented by a mix of floral pastels.

“There was a five-minute thunderstorm about an hour before the wedding, and we thought it was going to be ruined,” Yathelis and Jesse say, “but the sun came out, and the sky cleared up like nothing ever happened.”

photographer: Dove & Fox Photography
wedding planner: Styled Events by Rianna
ceremony & reception: Soirée on South
dress: Hera Couture Le Chic, Katie Yeung
hair: Emma Williams, Homegrown Roots Hair Salon
makeup: Carmen Powers
bridesmaids: Azazie
groom & groomsmen: Calvin Klein
flowers: Jack Hadden Floral & Event Design
cake: Ashley Morfin
catering: Visions Catering Inc.
rentals: Ward Productions
lighting & music: Dow Oak Events