Kristina & Rob at White Point Gardens

Kristina & Rob are the sweetest couple you could ever hope to meet!
 
This past weekend their wedding day finally arrived. Kristina and Rob had planned a beautiful intimate celebration, which they called the “Our Family Will Be There Elopement”. 🙂
 
The ceremony was held at the historic bandstand, also know as The Gazebo, in picturesque White Point Garden down by The Battery. It was a chilly day. But everyone’s energy and love warmed the park, leaving no room for the cold to enter in. Kristina was absolutely BEAUTIFUL in her elegant gown, complete with her mother’s wedding veil. After the ceremony, we had a great time photographing family portraits with all their guests. Then Kristina, Rob, and I took a stroll through the park, along The Battery, and up old historic Church Street towards the reception.
 
The reception was a delightful private dinner at 82 Queen. Tucked away in an upstairs room, the beautiful couple enjoyed a warm reception, a touching toast, delicious food, and lively conversations surrounded by their supportive family and friends.
 
CONGRATULATIONS Kristina & Rob!!! We wish you all the best as you begin your new journey together as husband and wife…

Leadership Luncheon at Hotel Bennett

I have thoroughly enjoyed working with the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors over the years! They are such a great group of people…always professional, kind, and fun to work with!!!

Once again, I had the pleasure of photographing their annual Leadership Luncheon. This year was held at a new location…the beautiful Hotel Bennett in downtown Charleston! I’ve photographed other events at this new hotel at the corner of Marion Square. So I knew what a picturesque venue it was. But I was blown away by the gorgeous Christmas decorations!!!

The Leadership Luncheon went perfectly. With great food, a wonderful keynote speaker, and all kind of honors and accolades bestowed on various members, it was a truly a memorable event!

Julie & Shawn’s Phoenix Wedding

When Shawn & Julie got engaged, everyone knew it was coming. They were just too perfect together for it NOT to happen! Cami and I were even more excited when they asked us to do the honor of photographing this special day for my nephew and his fiance!!!

Their wedding was held in Phoenix, a city that we’ve grown to love. When the big day arrived, Shawn & Julie got ready at the picturesque Talking Stick Resort, where they also shared a First Look before heading over to the wedding venue. The ceremony was held at this really cool rustic location called Desert Foothills Resort. It was an absolute dream location for photography, with an old wooden barn, beautifully decorated, and surrounded by wild cacti.

We had so much fun meeting Shawn & Julie’s friends and family who all came out to help them celebrate! Many thanks to Shawn’s brother, Tyler, who officiated the ceremony, to Anne and her family for all their hard work putting together the gorgeous decorations, to Dan & Linda for keeping everything running smoothly, to Lisa at the venue for all her help with planning, to Julian at Heidi’s Events and Catering, to DJ Eli for rockin’ the night away, and to Cami for all her help with navigating and being my lighting assistant!

CONGRATULATIONS Julie & Shawn! We wish you all be best as you begin your new journey together!!!

Cocktails for Community

Every fall, the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors hosts “Cocktails for Cummunity”, a fabulous fund raiser to help support the Realtors Housing Opportunities Fund.

The RHOF is an endowed fund created by the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors supporting non-profit organizations to make a positive difference in the local community. RHOF’s giving mission is three-pronged: the repair or rehabilitation of low-to-moderate income housing, creation of new affordable housing, and education to encourage responsible homeownership. To date, RHOF has provided OVER $1 million in funding to Lowcountry nonprofits!

It was my pleasure to photograph this wonderful event again this year!

Lobster Fest for Iron Gate Realty

For their client-appreciation dinner this year, Renee & Paul at Iron Gate Realty organized a phenomenal Lobster Fest!!!

It was held at the Pierce Park Pavilion on Daniel Island.  After photographing portraits of Renee and her brother (and partner in crime), Paul, I set up and did couple’s portraits in front of the step-and-repeat, as well as with the beautiful park greenery in the background. We also did a big group photo of everyone that attended. And of course I got tons of candids of everyone having fun digging into their fresh “lobstah”! 🙂

It was a really fun event! I’d like to say a HUGE “Thank You” to Renee & Paul for allowing me to be a part of it.

Audrey & WD at The Island House

Audrey is one of the fabulous members of the Education Team at the Center for Birds of Prey. I’ve had the privilege of working with her many times at various events over the years. She’s super smart, crazy fun, loves the outdoors, has a big heart, and plays soccer. I love her to pieces and was absolutely honored when she asked me to be her wedding photographer!

I met William (or “WD” as his friends call him) for the first time at the wedding rehearsal. It was like bumping into an old friend. He is so laid back, easy going, accepts you for who you are, and loves to laugh. WD shares so many things in common with Audrey…he’s passionate about fishing, being outdoors (especially if it’s on the water), and oh yeah…he plays soccer! These two are a perfect match made in heaven!!!

Their beautiful wedding and reception were held at The Island House, a picturesque venue overlooking the Stono River. Everything was delightfully decorated with a bohemian fall theme. Even the weather cooperated with temperatures dropping pleasantly into the high 60s, down from the oppressive heat of the high 80s it had been in weeks prior.

Audrey was just stunning in her gorgeous gown with its intricate lace backing.  WD was quite dashing in his gray suite and bow tie. One thing I absolutely LOVED (and that you’ll notice in the progression of photos) is how the low lying layer of clouds lifted RIGHT AT THE END of the ceremony as these two beautiful souls exchanged their vows! It was truly magical how the sun popped out, shining on their smiling faces, right at that moment. Like I said, these two are a match made in heaven!!! 🙂

To see the rest of their wedding photos, visit https://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/audreyandwd.

I also loved how they incorporated Audrey’s Scottish heritage into their celebration. From the bagpipe processional, to special family members flying over all the way from Scotland to be here for their special day, it was really neat to have that international touch.

I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped make Audrey & WD’s wedding so special!

Lynn at The Island House
www.islandhouseevents.com

Jayme at Brand Bars & Events Wedding Planner
www.brandbars.com

Keith at Café Catering
www.cafetogochs.com

Sierra at BevSafe
www.bevsafe.com

Mary & Kit at Lotus Flowers
www.lotusflowercharleston.com

Nick at Lowcountry Entertainment
www.lowcountryentertaimentsc.com

Ashley at ABCD Cakes
www.abcdcakes.com

Eden at Snyder Rentals
www.snydereventrentals.com

Shauna at Moxie Salon
www.facebook.com/Moxiesalonmtp

Lowcountry Valet
www.lowcountryvalet.com

Jim Saint John
Family friend and Officiant

CONGRATULATIONS Audrey & WD! We wish you all the best as you begin your amazing new journey together!!!

“A thousand welcomes to you with your marriage kerchief,
May you be healthy all your days.
May you be blessed with long life and peace,
May you grow old with goodness, and with riches.”

~ Gaelic Wedding Blessing

Lauren & Dan’s Wedding at Tanglewood Plantation

Dan & Lauren’s wedding was extra special to me because of the shared African Connection!

I was born and raised in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Cami and I have also traveled to Tanzania a couple of times. So when Lauren contacted us about photographing her wedding to Dan, a wonderful man she met and fell in love with while working in Kenya, I was absolutely THRILLED!!!

“That’s awesome that you were born in the Congo and have been back to visit Africa!! It’s a beautiful continent. I work with the Presbyterian Church of East Africa, specifically with programs that empower women and girls from marginalized communities. I also teach some theology classes at the Presbyterian University in Nairobi to folks who are preparing to enter pastoral ministry. I love it!! I lived in Kenya for the first time the year I graduated from college, and I have loved it ever since. Dan is Kenyan – we met back in 2009 when I was serving as a student minister in Nairobi during my last year of seminary. We spent a lot of time in (really) long distance while I served a church in New Jersey, and he worked in Nairobi. Then I moved back to Kenya last year – and now we’re getting married in June! We couldn’t be more excited!!!”

Dan & Lauren were married at the picturesque Tanglewood Plantation. Their celebration was a bland of African culture and American tradition. It was so cool to not only capture the joining of these two beautiful people in love, but also witness the coming together of two families from different continents.

Many thanks to my good friend and amazing photographer Steve Roos for the kind referral, to Bailey Stone of By Invitations Only for keeping everything running smoothly, Southern Way Catering for the delicious food, Emerald Empire Band for the awesome music, Brian Urbish at Tanglewood Plantation, and all the other wonderful people who had a hand in making this magical day come true.

To see the complete collection of Lauren & Dan’s photos, head over to: http://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/laurenanddan2.

CONGRATULATIONS Lauren & Dan! An African wedding blessing we used to say is “Where there is love there is no darkness.” May your hearts always be full of light as you begin your new journey together!

Palmetto Community Care

Lowcountry AIDS Services is now Palmetto Community Care!

Last night I had the pleasure of photographing their re-branding announcement at the picturesque Harborside East. They may have a new name. But they are still providing the same complete and compassionate HIV care and prevention services to the lowcountry.

“We believe our continued commitment to our work here in the Lowcountry will help bring an end to the HIV epidemic through increased HIV testing, prevention and education.”

For more than 25 years Palmetto Community Care’s mission has been to assist those living with HIV and AIDS by providing a full spectrum of compassionate care and support services, while busting myths, breaking down barriers and inspiring hope.

Amy & Adam at Medicine Wind Farm

Some of you may remember this absolutely GORGEOUS Engagement Photo Shoot I had with Amy & Adam at Middleton Plantation eight months ago: https://chrisandcami.com/amy-adam-at-middleton-place-plantation-garden/.

Last weekend, Amy & Adam finally tied the knot in a BEAUTIFUL outdoor ceremony on the grand lawn at the picturesque Medicine Wind Farm! It was a chilly afternoon outside. But the palpable love between these two, and the warm comradery of good friends and great family that surrounded them, kept all of us warm inside.

To see more of their photos, visit their full gallery at:  http://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/adamandamy

CONGRATULATIONS Amy & Adam! You two are absolutely perfect for each other…a true match made in heaven. May God bless you as you begin this wonderful new journey together!!!

Wild at Wingswood Gala

Photographing the annual Wild at Wingswood gala for the Charleston Center for Birds of Prey is one of my most anticipated events of the year!

It’s a very unique fundraiser, where live raptors, owls, and other beautiful birds soar through the air, gliding silently over guests and attendees under the big tent!
The Avian Conservation Center and the Center for Birds of Prey are doing AMAZING things for our natural world. If you’ve never been, they are open to the public on most Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. You’ve GOT to check this cool place out and see for yourself why nature lovers from all over the country speak so highly of this gem, located just a few miles outside of Charleston!

Check them out at http://www.thecenterforbirdsofprey.org/.

Maisha & Danny’s Folly Beach Wedding

Maisha and Danny were married last week on a beautiful afternoon, in front of a gorgeous beach house, on the delightful island of Folly Beach!

Because Danny is the Executive Chef at a country club in Atlanta, and normally works on weekends, they decided to have their wedding on a Wednesday. Smart! He’s been in enough of his friend’s weddings on the weekend, that he told all of them: “Guess what! I had to take off work for YOUR weddings. Now you get to take off work for mine!”  🙂

Maisha is one of the Atlanta Rollergirls. Let me tell you, these ladies are TOUGH!!! She was telling me about their workouts, and all the injuries they’ve sustained…pretty impressive stuff! But not only is she a powerful young lady…she’s also beautiful! And I mean beautiful both inside and out.

Maisha and Danny, along with their fun and fabulous wedding party, met up with me in downtown Charleston for some cool shots before the ceremony. We started at Waterfront Park, strolled around the French Quarter, and even made it up to Rainbow Row. We had a BLAST!!!  To see the rest of their photos, head over to:  http://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/maishaanddanny

Eventually, we headed over to Folly Beach, where the fabulous Rachel of www.eleventsandco.com had everything beautifully decorated. I had to give Rachel a HUGE hug for recommending us to Maisha and Danny. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect couple to work with!

The ceremony was led by Rev. Barbara of One Gal and A Wedding. And the beautiful music was performed by Corinne Gooden.

CONGRATULATIONS Maisha & Danny! We wish you all the best as you begin your new journey together!!!

Tani & Scot’s Wedding on the Carolina Girl

Tani and Scot were classmates at Pelham Road Elementary back in the 70’s. Scot played football for the Mustangs, and Tani was a cheerleader. It’s the classic American sweetheart story!  Scot asked Tani to wear his jersey one week and Tani happily accepted.  🙂  Scot and Tani both attended Greenville Middle School as well as Eastside High School. As they got older, the bond of the “Pelham Road Mustang Jersey” faded and, as often happens in high school, their lives took different paths. After High School Graduation, Tani went on to college at USC, and then to Furman for her Masters. Scot joining the Marine Corps, and studied at Lander University and Greenville Tech. After a deployment to Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Scot went on to a 15 year career in the golf industry.  Tani got married and had two wonderful children, Brooke and Garrett, while parenting a step child as well.  Years later, Tani and Scot re-ignited the flame of the “Pelham Road Mustang”, and have been inseparable ever since!

It’s been an absolute pleasure to get to know Tani & Scot as we planned, prepared and finally got to photograph their beautiful wedding last weekend!  The pure joy, and beautiful energy both of them put out into the world is such a breath of fresh air.  The way they laugh, cry, hug, and hold each other lets you know that they are TRULY living life to the fullest.  In the worries and woes of today’s crazy world, being around these two put peace in my mind and hope in my heart.  The world is a better place with these two in it…ESPECIALLY now that they have found their way back to each other!!!  🙂

I met up with Tani & Scott for their First Glance in a beautiful clearing surrounded by trees near the Ripley Point Marina.  What a joyful way to start off their celebration!  Family and friends joined us for a fun photo shoot soon after.  Then it was on to the one and only Carolina Girl.  I absolutely LOVE photographing weddings and receptions on this beautiful yacht!  Ashley and the rest of the staff had prepared everything down to the last detail.  Breezes swayed the sweet grass back and forth as we cruised through the low-country waterscape surrounding historic downtown Charleston.  Tani & Scott exchanged their vows on the upper deck as the serene scene floated by.  After a perfectly timed sunset photo-opp, the party kicked into high gear with dinner, dancing, and LOTS of celebrating!

At the end of the evening, a special surprise awaited Tani.  Scott had secretly arranged for an 8-man company of marines to perform the traditional Saber Arch as the two of them dis-embarked from the Carolina Girl.  It was quite a site, and quite an emotional moment!  To welcome her to the Marines, Tani received the customary “sword swat” on the derriere, to everyone’s applause.  Hand-in-hand, Tani & Scot then made their way down the dock, lined with excited friends and family, all blowing bubbles and high-fiving the newlyweds as they made their way off into the night!

CONGRATULATIONS Tani & Scott!  May your hearts forever be full and free!!!