The Black Stallion

5 Days at the Black Stallion

Wedding Day

Black Stallion

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

We met at an apartment complex party in Frisco, Texas. It turns out, finding your person is a lot easier when they live next door!

Where It All Began

In the beginning, David spent evenings taking Melissa’s dog Luna to the park with his dog Pika while she worked in the evenings. He quickly learned the way to Melissa’s heart was through his cooking—and the patience to stay up late waiting for her to get home. Over time, with Luna, Pika, and later Nova, we became inseparable.

The Courtship

When Melissa got accepted to nursing school in North Carolina, we knew it was our next chapter. We loaded up the dogs and made the move from Texas to Charlotte. It's been three years of wonderful memories in our new home.

The Big Move

This chapter began with an intense nursing program and adjusting to new jobs, but with unwavering support for each other, we built a life in Charlotte. We fell in love with discovering new restaurants and neighborhoods. We’ve taken roadtrips—from the coast to the mountains—gone to concerts and ballets, and spent many days at one of our favorite spots, the U.S. National Whitewater Center. It goes without saying the dogs have also loved exploring new places to play!

The Charlotte Chapter

Now we're getting married at The Black Stallion in the Outer Banks, and we couldn't be more excited to celebrate with everyone!

The Forever Part

Our Story

WELCOME TO THE OUTER BANKS December 3–7, 2026 · Corolla, North CarolinaWe're so excited to spend an entire weekend celebrating with our favorite people at the Black Stallion!THURSDAY · DECEMBER 34:00 PM · Welcome to CorollaArrive, settle in, grab a drink and some snacks at the Black Stallion.7:00 PM · Taco Night 🌮Join us for a casual welcome dinner with tacos, margaritas, music, and a little pre-wedding celebration. All guests, including those staying on and offsite, are invited.Evening · House HangDrinks, games, fire pit, hot tub &amp; time to catch up.FRIDAY · DECEMBER 4Morning–Afternoon · Explore the OBXFriday is yours! Sleep in, enjoy the beach, explore Corolla, visit the lighthouse, take a wild horse tour, or simply relax at the house.1:00pm Optional Group Outing to a Local WineryFor those interested, we'll have an optional outing to enjoy the Wild Goose Wine Bar together.5:00 PM · Wedding Rehearsal 5:30 PM · Rehearsal Dinner at the Black StallionWhile our wedding party and immediate family gather for the wedding rehearsal and dinner, the rest of our guests are invited to enjoy a free evening to relax, explore, and experience a little more of the OBX.A few favorites: Mike Dianna's Grill RoomA local favorite for seafood, steak, burgers, cocktails, and a more traditional sit-down meal.Mama Easley'sCasual coastal comfort food, including seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and shrimp baskets.Upside RestaurantSouthern-influenced coastal cuisine, cocktails and a sound-facing deck with sunset views.Bernie's Brother Tropical Grill &amp; BarTacos, pizza, seafood, burgers, margaritas, and plenty of outdoor seating. Very relaxed.North Banks Restaurant &amp; Raw BarFresh seafood, oysters, steamer baskets, craft cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere.Restaurant hours can vary seasonally, so we recommend checking December hours and making reservations when possible.SATURDAY · DECEMBER 5WEDDING DAY 🤍Morning–2:00 PM · Explore CorollaMake the most of the Outer Banks! Grab coffee, visit Duck Donuts, walk the beach, visit the lighthouse, shop around Corolla, or relax at the Black Stallion.3:00 PM · Wedding Celebration Begins 🥂Ceremony · Cocktail Hour · Dinner · Dancing · CelebrationSUNDAY · DECEMBER 6Slow MorningCoffee, breakfast, beach walks.11:00 AM · Farewell Brunch 🥂Join us for brunch as we celebrate one last time together. All are welcome to come, including those staying on and offsite.4:00 PM · One More OBX AdventureJoin us for a casual afternoon outing at The Whalehead Brewery for food and drinks!MONDAY · DECEMBER 7Breakfast bites and coffee10:00 AM · Check out of The Black StallionWe're so grateful you're making the trip to Corolla to celebrate with us!We can't wait to spend an entire weekend together!

Weekend Timeline

Saturday, December 5th at The Black Stallion

Afternoon2:30-2:50pmArrive and settle inDrop your coat and find a seat. Please be seated by 3pm3:00pmCeremonyThe Great Room, second floor, in front of the fireplace.

Golden hour3:45pmCocktail hourLive piano, passed bites, and signature cocktails named for our three dogs.

Evening5:15pmReceptionHead to the event room and find your seat.5:30pmGrand entrance and first danceThen dinner: An Italian dinner, served buffet style.After dinnerToasts, parent dances, and dancingPlus a crème brûlée bar for dessert!

Late~11pmLast dance and send-off Stay for the final song

TRAVELGetting to The Black Stallion599 Laughing Gull Court, Corolla, NC 27927Quick GuideRental car required - Limited ride share options in the OBX!Nearest Airport in Norfolk, VA or Raleigh-Durham, NCNorfolk International Airport (ORF) - Closest OptionDistance: 85 miles (1.5-2 hours)Airlines: American, Delta, United, SouthwestCar Rental: Avis, Alamo, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and ThriftyRaleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)Distance: 190 miles (3.5-4 hours)Airlines: All major carriersCar Rental: Avis, Alamo, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty, Payless, SixtDriving DirectionsOn GPS - just enter "The Black Stallion, Corolla NC"Cell service generally good but can have spotty areasDownload offline maps just in caseWhen to Book Your FlightArrival: Thursday, December 3rd, 2026Check-in: 4:00 PMRecommended Arrival: Before 3:00 PM to allow buffer timeFlight Timing Suggestions:Norfolk flights: Land by 12:00 PM (allows 2-hour drive + buffer)Raleigh flights: Land by 11:00 AM (allows 4-hour drive + buffer)Departure: Monday, December 7th, 2026Check-out: 11:00 AMRecommended Departure: After 3:00 PM to avoid rushingFlight Timing Suggestions:Norfolk flights: Depart 3:00 PM or laterRaleigh flights: Depart 4:30 PM or laterPrivate Car ServicesBeach Cab OBX(252) 441-2500Airport pickups availableCost: ~$150-200 from Norfolk, ~$300+ from RDUMust book in advance

ACCOMMODATIONSThe Black StallionDue to limited capacity at The Black Stallion, we're only able to host our immediate family, wedding party, and a small number of friends at the venue for the weekend celebration.Alternative AccommodationsFor all other guests, we've compiled a list of wonderful nearby hotels and vacation rentals below!Many choices are available on Airbnb and/or VRBOCottages and homes available for groups of all sizes!Additionally, you can explore this website to view properties in Corolla for rent: <a href="https://www.villagerealtyobx.com/outer-banks-vacation-rentals/corolla" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.villagerealtyobx.com/outer-banks-vacation-rentals/corolla</a>We're so excited to celebrate with you and appreciate you making the journey to the Outer Banks.

A grand seaside retreat nestled between the pristine coastline
of the Atlantic and leisurely shoreline of the Currituck Sound.
A soulful place that celebrates the natural beauty and
tranquility of the Outer Banks. Guests visit from far and wide
to celebrate lifes big and small moments-returning for the
southern charm-quintessential coastal vibes-and abundance of
salt-infused activities and amenities within a storybook
setting. A place where traditions are born and memories linger
for a lifetime. Sanderling Resort features 123 guest rooms and
suites in three guest room buildings-6 vacation homes-three
restaurants-four bars-two outdoor pools-11300 square feet of
conference space including an all-weather pavilion and an event
house. Sanderling Resort has an award-winning 6000 square foot
spa with ten treatment rooms. Sanderling has an abundance of
activities available to enjoy including daylight-sunset and
moonlight kayak tours-stand up paddleboard and surf
lessons-wine tours-sailing-jet ski
tours-wakeboarding-waterskiing and tubing. In addition to the
many water activities-make most of your Outer Banks vacation on
land with plenty of golf-bike riding-sunrise yoga-horseback
riding and or a wild horses tour.

The Sanderling

Bookings available through December 6th. Guest rooms are spacious suites with king beds, soft linens, and welcoming interiors, all adorned with local art. Each suite will offer: Free Wi-FiTelevisionIn-room RefrigeratorKeurig CoffeemakersHair DryersToiletriesOther room essentials include phone chargers, wine glasses, coffee mugs &amp; cork screws.

Corolla Village Inn

Offering an outdoor pool and an indoor pool, this beachfront hotel is located in Corolla, North Carolina. Free WiFi access and a daily continental breakfast are provided. Each room at Hampton Inn and Suites Outer Banks Corolla will provide guests with a patio or balcony. A microwave, refrigerator, and cable TV are also included. Extras include a desk and hairdryer. Select rooms offer an ocean view. A hot tub is on site at Hampton Inn and Suites Corolla. Other facilities offered at the property include meeting facilities and laundry facilities. An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including fishing. The property offers free parking. Kitty Hawk is 16 mi from this hotel.

Hampton Inn & Suites Outer Banks/ Corolla

Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk is nestled on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can take a refreshing plunge in the pool or get a workout in the on-site fitness center. The hotel offers on-site dining options and a fishing pier. The Wright Brothers National Memorial is a 15 minutes' drive away. Room features a flat-screen TV with cable channels. A small refrigerator, coffee maker, and microwave are provided as well. A private balcony or patio is included. Suites feature a separate seating area. Beach access is available from the property. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the games room. Guests can grab a bite to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Great American Grill restaurant. Jockey's Ridge State Park is 11 mi from the property. Nature tours at the Nags Head Nature Conservancy are a 17 minutes' drive away.

Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk

Situated in Kitty Hawk Beach, a few steps from Kitty Hawk Beach, Saltaire Cottages features accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a private beach area and a terrace. This 5-star hotel features free WiFi and barbecue facilities. Rooms have a patio. All guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with a coffee machine. Complete with a private bathroom fitted with a shower and free toiletries, the rooms at Saltaire Cottages have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and certain rooms come with a balcony. Guest rooms will provide guests with a fridge. Southern Shores Beach is 2.6 km from the accommodation.

Saltaire Cottages

Situated in Kill Devil Hills and only a few steps from Kill Devil Hills Beach, Pierhouse Bed &amp; Breakfast features accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. Boasting a shared kitchen, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. The property features a seasonal outdoor pool with a fence and is located 600 metres from Kitty Hawk Beach. All units are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a toaster, a coffee machine, a shower, free toiletries and a outdoor furniture. Some units also have a well-fitted kitchenette equipped with a dishwasher, an oven, and a microwave. Additional in-room amenities include wine or champagne, fruits and chocolates or cookies. A snack bar can be found on-site, and in the warmer months you can make use of the barbecue facilities. Guests at the bed and breakfast will be able to enjoy activities in and around Kill Devil Hills, like fishing. Guests can also relax in the shared lounge area.

Pierhouse Bed & Breakfast

Travelodge by Wyndham Outer Banks/Kill Devil Hills offers direct access to the beach across the street. It features a seasonal outdoor pool and free passes to the local YMCA. Guest rooms include free WiFi. A microwave, refrigerator, and coffee-making facilities are offered in each room at the Travelodge by Wyndham Outer Banks/Kill Devil Hills. The traditionally styled rooms also include a flat-screen cable TV with HBO®. Travelodge by Wyndham Outer Banks/Kill Devil Hills offers a business center on site for guest use. Free coffee is available in the lobby 24-hours per day. Wright Brothers National Memorial & Museum is less than 1 mi from this hotel. Jockeys Ridge State Park is 4.5 mi away, and several lighthouses are nearby.

Travelodge by Wyndham Outer Banks/Kill Devil Hills

A 2-minute walk from Currituck Beach in Corolla, Pamela's VOH18 offers accommodations with access to a hot tub and fitness room. Guests can benefit from a patio and an outdoor pool. The vacation home also offers facilities for disabled guests. Providing access to a balcony with pool views, the spacious air-conditioned vacation home consists of 7 bedrooms. Offering a terrace with sea views, this vacation home also features a satellite TV, a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven, and a microwave, as well as 8 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. There's also a seating area and a fireplace. Guests may enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. Guests at the vacation home will be able to enjoy activities in and around Corolla, like cycling. A children's playground is also available for guests at Pamela's VOH18.

Pamela's VOH18

Travel & Accommodations

GENERAL WEDDING QUESTIONSWhen and where is the wedding?Saturday, December 5th, 20263:00 PM CeremonyThe Black Stallion599 Laughing Gull CourtCorolla, NC 27927Is this a multi-day event?Yes! We're hosting a 5-day celebration from Thursday, December 3rd through Monday, December 7th. We want to spend quality time with all our loved ones, so we've planned activities throughout the weekend.Do I have to attend all 5 days?We'd love to have you for the full experience, but we understand everyone has different schedules! The ceremony and reception on Saturday are the main events. All other activities are optional. Just let us know your plans when you RSVP.What's the dress code?Wedding Ceremony &amp; Reception (Saturday): Cocktail attire (suits and cocktail dresses)All other events: Casual/beach casualImportant: Bring layers! December at the beach can be chilly, especially in the evenings.Is this an adults-only wedding?Kids are welcome to celebrate with us! We adore your little ones and would love to have them at any events you'd like to bring them to.Will the ceremony be indoors or outdoors?The ceremony will be held indoors. Weather permitting, we'll offer opportunities to mingle outdoors and enjoy the Outer Banks scenery. Given the December weather, we'll ensure indoor spaces are warm and comfortable for everyone.

What's the weather like in Corolla in December? Expect Outer Banks winter weather — typically 40s to 50s°F, with wind off the water that can make it feel colder than the forecast. Ceremony and reception are indoors and heated, but if you're joining any outdoor moments (cocktail hour photos, a walk on the beach, the welcome event) layers are your friend. A warm coat, closed-toe shoes, and something to throw over cocktail attire for photos outside will serve you well.

Is a rental car required? Rental cars are highly recommended, as Uber/Lyfts/Taxis are very limited in the Outer Banks. Private car services are available, however must be booked well in advance. To make the most out of your stay, and have the freedom to explore the OBX at your leisure, a rental car is your best bet.

Is there a welcome party?Yes — Thursday evening's dinner at The Black Stallion doubles as our welcome get-together. Come hungry and ready to relax after check-in; more details on timing are on our "Weekend Timeline" page. We would love for everyone coming in on Thursday to come even if you are not onsite.

Will there be food throughout the weekend? Breakfast and dinner will be provided each day for guests staying on site at The Black Stallion. For everyone else, we'd love to have you join us for Thursday's welcome dinner, Saturday's wedding reception, and Sunday's goodbye brunch — all three are covered no matter where you're staying! Outside of those, feel free to grab meals on your own around town.

Is there a goodbye brunch?Yes! Join us Sunday morning for a goodbye brunch before everyone heads out — details on our "Weekend Timeline" page.

Can I bring my dog? We love your pets, but we're keeping this a pet-free weekend for our guests. Thank you for understanding!

Who do I contact with questions?Reach out to David and Melissa directly — we're happy to help with anything not covered here.

Q + A

Wedding Party

Festive Cocktail Attire – It’s time to celebrate! We invite you to dress in cocktail attire with a fun holiday twist.

Dress Code

THINGS TO DO IN THE OUTER BANKSEXPLORE THE OUTER BANKSWelcome to the Outer Banks! Since you're here for a few days, we wanted to share our favorite spots and activities. Whether you're into adventure, relaxation, history, or just good food, OBX has something for everyone!*Note: Some activities listed here are seasonal, so please be sure to check online for availability!🏖️ MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONSFREE &amp; LOW-COSTJockey's Ridge State Park - FREETallest natural sand dune on the East CoastAmazing sunset viewsGreat for photos and exploring📍 Nags Head (30 min south)Wright Brothers National Memorial - $10/adultWhere aviation history was made!Beautiful grounds and museumLearn about the first flight📍 Kill Devil Hills (35 min south)Bodie Island Lighthouse - FREE grounds, $10 to climbIconic black and white striped lighthouseClimb 214 steps for incredible viewsGreat photo opportunity📍 South Nags Head (40 min south)Currituck Beach Lighthouse - $10 to climbStunning red brick lighthouseClimb 220 steps for panoramic viewsClose to Corolla!📍 Corolla Village (10 min south)Beach Access &amp; Walks - FREEMiles of beautiful, uncrowded beachesPerfect for walking, beachcombing, photosDecember beaches are peaceful and gorgeousMultiple access points throughout CorollaUNIQUE OBX EXPERIENCESWild Horse Tours - $50-60/person ⭐See the famous Corolla wild horsesSpanish mustangs roaming free on the beach4WD tours go into the protected areas2-hour tours, book in advance!Companies: Wild Horse Adventure Tours, Corolla Outback AdventuresCurrituck Heritage Park - FREEHistoric Whalehead Club mansionBeautiful grounds perfect for strollingLearn about OBX history📍 Corolla (10 min from venue)North Carolina Aquarium at Roanoke Island - $13/adultTouch tanks, sea turtles, sharksGreat for all agesIndoor activity (perfect if weather is bad!)📍 Manteo (45 min south)Downtown Manteo - FREE to exploreCharming historic waterfront townBoutique shops and galleriesRoanoke Island Festival Park nearby📍 Manteo (45 min south)🍽️ WHERE TO EATWe're food lovers, so here are our top picks!BREAKFAST &amp; BRUNCHStack 'em High Pancakes ⭐Huge portions, fun atmosphereFamous for enormous pancakesCash only!📍 3720 N Croatan Hwy, Kitty HawkDuck DonutsMade-to-order fresh donutsCustomize your toppingsMultiple OBX locationsGreat coffee too!Sam &amp; Omie'sOBX institution since 1937Classic diner breakfastLocal favorite📍 Milepost 16.5, Nags HeadFront Porch CaféHealthy optionsGreat smoothies and acai bowlsCozy atmosphere📍 DuckArt's PlaceLocal hangoutHomestyle breakfastNo-frills, delicious📍 Kitty HawkLUNCH SPOTSKill Devil Grill ⭐Farm-to-table, local ingredientsSeafood, burgers, saladsUpscale casual📍 Kill Devil HillsBlue Moon Beach GrillWaterfront diningFresh seafoodGreat lunch specials📍 Nags HeadAwful Arthur's Oyster BarRaw bar, steamed seafoodCasual beach vibeFamous for oysters📍 Multiple locationsJohn's Drive-InOBX classic since 1977Milkshakes and burgersSuper casual📍 Kitty HawkTrio Restaurant &amp; MarketUpscale sandwiches and saladsWine shop attachedGreat for a nicer lunch📍 Kitty HawkDINNER - SEAFOODTortugas' Lie ⭐Great atmosphere and foodExcellent seafoodFun, lively vibe📍 Nags HeadOcean BoulevardFine dining with ocean viewsSpecial occasion spotReservations recommended📍 Kitty HawkFishbones Sunset GrilleRaw bar and local catchesWaterfront seatingBeautiful sunset views📍 Nags HeadWaterman's GrillSoundside diningFresh seafoodMore upscale📍 South Nags HeadBlue Point Bar &amp; GrillDuck waterfrontGreat happy hourSeafood and steaks📍 DuckDINNER - OTHER OPTIONSPigman's Bar-B-QueIf you're craving BBQ!Casual, deliciousNorth Carolina style📍 Kill Devil HillsBarefoot Bernie'sTropical vibeSurf &amp; turfFun atmosphere📍 Kill Devil HillsOuter Banks Brewing StationBrewery with full menuBurgers, seafood, pub fareLocal craft beers📍 Kill Devil HillsLa Fogata Mexican RestaurantGood Mexican foodMargaritas!Casual and family-friendly📍 Kill Devil HillsDajioJapanese and Asian fusionSushi, hibachi, noodlesSomething different📍 Nags Head1587 Restaurant - Special OccasionFine diningUpscale menuReservations essential📍 ManteoPIZZA &amp; CASUALPizzazz PizzaGood pizza, salads, subsMultiple locationsNC Coast Grill &amp; BarPizza, wings, casual fareSports bar vibeDESSERT &amp; TREATSKilwinsIce cream, fudge, chocolatesMultiple locationsPerfect after-dinner stopDuck Donuts (again!)Yes, donuts count as dessertPamlico Jack's - Nags Head PierIce cream with ocean views🛍️ SHOPPINGCOROLLA (Close to Venue)Monteray PlazaShopping center with various storesHarris Teeter groceryRestaurants📍 5 min from venueTimbuck II Shopping VillageBoutiques and shopsRestaurantsBeach gear📍 10 min from venueDUCK (15 min South)Duck Waterfront Shops ⭐Charming boardwalk shoppingUnique boutiquesArt galleriesCoastal decor and giftsBeautiful waterfront settingDuck's Cottage Downtown BooksIndependent bookstoreGreat selectionCoffee shop insideOTHER SHOPPINGGallery Row - Nags HeadMultiple art galleriesLocal artistsPerfect for unique giftsTanger Outlets - Nags HeadIf you need outlet shoppingAll the usual brands📍 40 min southChristmas Shop - ManteoYear-round holiday storeOrnaments and decorationsRAINY DAY / INDOORNC Aquarium - Already mentioned aboveRoanoke Island Festival ParkInteractive history exhibitsClimb aboard the Elizabeth II ship📍 Manteo🍺 BREWERIES &amp; WINERIESOuter Banks Brewing StationLocal craft beersTours sometimes availableFull restaurant📍 Kill Devil HillsWeeping Radish Farm BreweryGerman-style beersFarm settingRestaurant on-site📍 Grandy (on the way from Norfolk)Trio Wine &amp; MarketWine shop with tastingsUpscale market📍 Kitty HawkKill Devil Rum DistilleryLocal spiritsTours available📍 Kill Devil Hills📸 BEST PHOTO SPOTSCurrituck Beach Lighthouse - Classic OBX shotJockey's Ridge sand dunes - Sunset photosDuck waterfront boardwalk - Charming backdropBodie Island Lighthouse - Iconic black &amp; white stripesAny beach access - Endless ocean viewsWhalehead Club - Historic mansionWright Brothers Memorial - Historic monument🚗 ESSENTIAL STOPSHarris Teeter - Duck ⭐📍 1200 Duck Road, Duck, NCFull grocery storeGas stationPharmacyDeli and prepared foodsFILL UP HERE before going to Corolla!Brew Thru - OBX TraditionDrive-through beer, wine, liquor storeMultiple locationsUnique OBX experienceFun stop for party supplies

Things to Do

Registry

The Black StallionDue to limited capacity at The Black Stallion, we're only able to host our immediate family, wedding party, and a small number of friends at the venue for the weekend celebration. Alternative AccommodationsFor all other guests, we've compiled a list of wonderful nearby hotels and vacation rentals below! We're so excited to celebrate with you and appreciate you making the journey to the Outer Banks. Accomodations in the Outer BanksMany choices are available on Airbnb and/or VRBOCottages and homes available for groups of all sizes! Additionally, you can explore this website to view properties in Corolla for rent: https://www.villagerealtyobx.com/outer-banks-vacation-rentals/corolla

David & Melissa

David & Melissa

Photos