Hey, hey, heyyyyy! My name is Jessica (aka Wayfaring Wanderer) and I am a free-spirited photographer who loves working with couples, individuals, and families who are committed to travel, adventure, and laid-back lifestyles. I've lived in the Boone, NC area since 2005 and I'm known for capturing the spirit of the folks I photograph—the expressions, gestures, and details that are outward expressions of our innermost selves. While I'm primarily a wedding + elopement photographer, I also love working w/ individuals/couples/families that are traveling to the High Country area to getaway to the mountains. I absolutely love what I do and am so grateful to work with some of the most amazing people in one of the most beautiful places EVAR. Let’s go on an adventure!
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My Surprise Birthday Dinner @ The Mast Farm Inn | Valle Crucis, NC
times, and I’ve told myself repeatedly that I’d eat there one of
these days. Six years later, it finally happened!
much time pass before I actually made my way over to eat dinner in
this charming little establishment. I mean, it’s no secret that I
enjoy going out to eat. (I’m always sharing my food with you, it
seems.) However, this place can’t be compared to the typical dining
experiences I frequently have.
you’re having dinner in someone’s house, not a restaurant. The
atmosphere is cozy and intimate, and has very limited seating for
service. Reservations are required in order to dine, otherwise, they
wouldn’t make enough food. You see, they operate differently than
restaurants you have become accustomed to. The meals are prepared
fresh and made with organic ingredients that are oftentimes locally
sourced. That is, if they didn’t grow some of the items themselves.
large number of raised bed gardens where they can pluck ingredients
to use that same day. They also put a big emphasis on local items
included on the menu; It is something I definitely appreciate. The
menu changes every night depending upon what they get their hands on.
Surprises were plentiful that evening!
to be there. It was undoubtedly the best part of my birthday weekend.
You know, because of the FOOD! I’ll just stop beating around the bush
here, and tell you about the amazing meal.
homemade white and corny corn bread. They supplied us with a dish of
their very flavorful herb butter, which I slathered on top of my
cornbread. There was a slightly sweet crust on top that paired so
well with the buttery spread. Next up, was the petite vegetable soup
which was simple yet satisfying.
mixed green salad topped with local goat cheese, dried cranberries &
blueberries, pecans, and a molasses vinaigrette. I devoured this
salad even though the dressing wasn’t as sweet as I would have wanted
it to be. I will say, though, that it was quite interesting. Our main
dish consisted of beef bourguignon smothered with a rich red burgundy
wine sauce topped with mushrooms and pearl onions. The beef was
tender and delicious. No knife required for cutting. The accompanying
sides included creamy grits and sauteed green beans. I loved the
grits. They were awesome!
enough room to finish the beef bourguignon ( I ended up taking a
portion home) much less leave enough room for dessert. But I’d be
crazy to pass up the last course, don’t you think?! I ended up going
with the chocolate fudge cake (it was called something like
that—sorry, I don’t have my notes!) that came with homemade caramel
ice cream. I could only have one tiny corner of the cake and a few
spoonfuls of the ice cream, but oh my word, they were both
incredible. The leftover cake went home with me, too!
there for over 2 hours. Tell me, when do you get the opportunity to
take your time eating a multiple-course meal like that? Not very
often, I’m sure. I know that I’m used to things coming as quickly as
possible when dining out, so this was a welcomed alternative because
I don’t like feeling rushed.
restaurant (called Simplicity) was a treat, although I don’t think this should
just be one of those “special occasion” places to eat. Yes, it
was slightly pricier that your typical restaurant. However, for the
quality of food, service, and ambiance, it was well worth the
expense. Now that I’ve finally been there for a dinner service, I know that I’ll be back a lot sooner next time!
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My name is Jessica and I’m a wedding, engagement and lifestyle photographer based in Boone, NC. I’m known for capturing the spirit of the folks I photograph–the expressions, gestures, and details that are outward expressions of our innermost selves. I love working with couples, individuals and families who are committed to travel, adventure, and laid-back lifestyles. If you think we might be kindreds, I invite you to connect with me!
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I can't wait TO CONNECT WITH YOU ANd hear more about your special day!
the mountains are calling...
