Brandon Johnson & Jennifer Padavic

MARK MAYA PHOTOGRAPHY

Brandon Johnson + Jennifer Padavic

By Charlotte Goto Brandon Johnson and Jennifer Padavic’s love story feels meant to be. After swiping right on a dating app, they realized they lived only a half-mile apart from each other on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. They met in the middle for their first date, and the rest is history. On Jan. 2, 2021, Brandon and Jennifer kicked off the new year with a hike to the top of Bear Mountain in New York’s Hudson Highlands. While admiring the sunset, they discussed their goals for the upcoming year, and Brandon popped the question. The bride and groom hired Durhambased photographer and filmmaker Mark Maya to document the precious moments of their North Carolina mountain wedding. Mark captured the beauty of the big day through photos, drone images and videography. “From our very first interaction, Mark was incredibly organized, warm and inspiring to speak with,” says Jennifer. “I knew immediately and was confident that my photos would be incredible – and seriously, they are breathtaking.” Brandon and Jennifer tied the knot at Earthshine Lodge in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina, with their closest loved ones. The intimate weekend was filled with scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stargazing and sparklers. Their color palette of lavender, peach, ivory and moss was inspired by nature and the rustic venue. Brandon and Jennifer are grateful for their family and friends who made the mountain getaway of their dreams a reality. The photos and video by Mark will serve as a fond reminder of their perfect day.