Heather & Andrew at the The River House

Heather and I are inextricably linked!

A flight attendant from Texas, Heather happened to be in Charleston a little over a year ago. It truly was fate that drew her into the small art gallery in downtown Charleston where our wildlife photography was on display. She fell in love with one of my images of a white egret soaring overhead. Not having her size in stock, we custom ordered one for her.

After Heather and I connected over this simple picture of a bird, she met and fell madly in love with Andrew! They were a match made in heaven!!! And what better place to celebrate such love, than here in Charleston?!? After introducing Andrew to our beautiful city, he agreed, and plans began taking shape. I was deeply honored when Heather, remembering her “photographer friend from Charleston”, asked me to be their wedding photographer!!!

Fast forward to this past weekend when, on a gorgeous summer day, Heather & Andrew were married under a majestic arch of live oak trees, on a grassy hill, overlooking the Ashley River, in a beautiful section of Lowndes Grove Plantation, known as The River House. Heather was absolutely stunning! The talented Loraine of Invitations Only Charleston made sure every detail was perfect. And the eloquent Kasey King led a touching ceremony.

Later that evening, Heather & Andrew met up with me for a fun “After Shoot”. Ā We strolled around the old historic streets of downtown Charleston, capturing beautiful images of their love as we went! For a grand finale, we caught the setting sun over the Ashley River as sailboats bobbed in the distance.

CONGRATULATIONS Heather & Andrew! We wish you all the best as you begin your new journey together!!!

Marri & Aldo’s Minnesota Wedding

 

“We’re all a little weird, and life’s a little weird. And when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.”

– Dr. Seuss

 

I love this quote from one of my all-time favorite writers! I’m not calling Marri & Aldo “wierd”. But they are most definitely, one hundred percent, head-over-heals IN LOVE!!! šŸ™‚

Having worked with Marri for many years (she was one of the decision-makers who hired me to photograph my first corporate event with the US Grains Council), it was such an honor when she asked me to photograph her wedding! I’ve come to think of her as not just a colleague, but as a friend…which made being a part of their celebration extra special for me.

Having grown up internationally, I was even MORE thrilled when I found out the man Marri had fallen in love with was Panamanian! Ā Aldo runs his own business in the shipping industry in Panama City, where Marri is now based. I finally got to meet him in February when we photographed their Engagement Session in Casco Viejo, the beautiful old historic part of Panama City. We got to meet his wonderful family there as well. It was truly special to see how happy Marri is when she’s around Aldo!

Fast forward to last weekend when Marri & Aldo’s destination wedding took place at her father’s farm in Marshall, MN. Family and friends came from far and wide! Friends from grade-school, co-workers, and so many of Aldo’s family from Panama that they even hired professional translators, Chris Dimmick and Isabel Rodriguez, to translate the beautiful ceremony!

The family farm was decorated beautifully! In a natural setting surrounded by tall pines, under a rustic arbor on a carpet of lush grass, Marri & Aldo exchanged their vows. Emotions swayed the gamut…solemn words from the heart cascading into bursts of joy and laughter. I was glad I had my cameras to hide behind when tears welled up…and just as glad when they were wiped away by a spontaneous giggle.

I didn’t think anything would top that amazing ceremony! But I was warned that Panamanians KNOW HOW TO PARTY!!! The reception that followed is certainly one that will go down in my mind as the greatest one in my long career! From the amazing toasts (some of which couldn’t even be translated!!!), to the fresh-from-the-farm dinner, to the bottomless ice-cream cart, to the all-night-dance fest, to the bonfire after-party with s’mores…it truly was a night to remember. I finally hitched a ride to the hotel at 2:00am. Ā Easily the longest I’ve ever partied at a reception…THAT is how much fun it was! šŸ™‚

CONGRATULATIONS, Marri & Aldo!
Ahora no sentirƔn ninguna lluvia, porque cada uno serƔ el amparo del otro.
Ahora no tendrƔn frƭo, porque cada uno le darƔ calor al otro.
Ahora no habrƔ mƔs soledad, porque existirƔn como compaƱeros.
Aunque sean son dos individuos, un solo destino los espera.
Vayan ahora a su hogar para continuar su vida juntos.
Y que sus dĆ­as en esta tierra duren y quesean prĆ³speros.
– Unknown Wedding Blessing

Here are a few of my favorite images below. Ā To view the rest of their wedding gallery, visit: Ā http://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/marriandaldowedding.

 

 

#LittleDittyBoutJeffAndDiane

Diane was a former co-worker of Cami’s, a neighbor of ours down the street, and a close friend to both of us for many years. Getting to know Jeff through Diane has meant a lot to us. He is such an amazing and kind gentleman. Ā And he is so good to Diane! We could NOT beĀ happier for the two of them!!!

Cami & I were absolutely over the moon when Jeff & Diane asked us to be their wedding photographers! It’s a real joy to be invited to capture any wedding. But when that special day belongs to a couple that is so close to our hearts, it makes it EVEN MORE special!!!

The morning of their wedding opened with a beautiful clear blue sky as we made our way to Wild Dunes, where Diane was getting ready. She was absolutely stunning in her simple, elegant wedding gown. I particularly loved her father’s expression when she came downstairs and he saw her for the first time!

The ceremony was held at Goldbug Island, on aĀ picturesque lawn overlooking the inter-coastal waterway. Our friend Sue officiated the ceremony with some sweet words. The recessional, with bubbles blowing in the breeze, was a particularly exciting time for all…clapping and cheering the newlyweds all the way!

After some fun family photos, Jeff & Diane joined me on Sullivan’s Island for a few romantic shots on the beach. Then it was back to Goldbug Island for a wild and crazy reception. Lauren Moniz of Serve Catering delivered delicious treats to eat. Rob Duren, our fantastic DJ and MC, rocked the tunes that carried the chatting, dancing, and partying long into the night!

To see the rest of the images, visit: Ā http://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/jeffanddiane.

CONGRATULATIONS Jeff & Diane!!! We wish you all the love and happiness in the world as you begin your new journey together! Ā šŸ™‚

Katie & Grayson at Magnolia Plantation

Last weekend, Katie & Grayson’s dream of a picture-perfect southern plantation wedding came true!!!

The sun was shining, the temperature was perfect, and excitement filled the air! Magnolia Plantation was the gorgeous backdrop for the day. And Katie was absolutely stunning in her gown. What more could a photographer ask for?!? šŸ™‚

To see the rest of their photos, visitĀ http://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/katieandgrayson. Ā And to see some of Katie’s beautiful bridal portraits, check outĀ https://chrisandcami.com/katies-bridal-portraits-at-charlestowne-landing/.

Originally from Arkansas, Katie & Grayson are the most amazing couple you could ever hope to meet! Katie is a stunning lawyer and athlete, with an infectious laugh, and a fun mischievous streak. Grayson’s devilish good looks and strong-but-quiet demeanor could land him on the cover of GQ magazine someday. Together they are a match made in heaven!

Many thanks to my amazing second-shooter, Robbin, to Leanza at Magnolia Plantation, to Loraine at Invitation Only Charleston, to Angela at First Impressions, to John at Watering Hole, to Thomas at 326 Films, to Janice at Pretty Petals, to Steve at Coastal Hospitality, to Andrew at Classical Charleston, to Monica at Cake Sablee, to Ron at RCB Audio, and to the many other helping hands and smiling faces of friends and family whoĀ helped make this day so special!

CONGRATULATIONS Katie & Grayson!!!

“Now you will feel no rain,
for each of you will be shelter for the other.
Now you will feel no cold,
for each of you will be warmth to the other.
Now there will be no loneliness,
for each of you will be companion to the other.
Now you are two persons,
but there is only one life before you.
May beauty surround you both in the journey ahead
and through all the years.
May happiness be your companion,
and your days together be good and long upon the earth.”
– Apache Wedding Blessing

Tatjana & Scott ‘s Wedding at St. John’s Parish

The title of this story could be “From Germany with Love”. šŸ™‚

Hailing from Deutschland, Tatjana has her masters degree in education, but also a minor in photography. So the two of us hit it off right away!!! She and Scott met in Greenville, where he was doing his medical residency. They soon fell in love! But his roots are right here in Charleston. Naturally, when he moved back to Charleston to work in the ER, Tatjana came with him and their relationship blossomed!

Tatjana & Scott were married in a beautiful and intimate wedding ceremony, led by Scott’s childhood friend, now pastor at St. John’s Parish. The flock of adorable flower girls nearly stole the show. But when Tatjana in her gorgeous gown entered on her father’s arm, with the magical afternoon sun glowing through the windows behind them, it was a heart-stopping experience!

A picturesque low-country reception followed at Scott’s family home on the banks of the Wadmalaw River. The setting sun, the clear-top wedding tent, the amazing band, the delicious food, and of course the delightful friends and family who came out to help these two celebrate their special day…all made for an INCREDIBLE evening!

Many thanks to my friends at Sposa Bella for recommending us to Tatjana and Scott. Also, a huge thank you to my amazing second-shooter Laura. To see some of Tatjana & Scott’s adorable Engagement Photos, check out: https://chrisandcami.com/tatjana-scotts-historic-charleston-engagement-shoot/. And to see the rest of Tatjana & Scott’s photos, visit: http://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/tatjanaandscott.

CONGRATULATIONS Tatjana & Scott! Prost!!!

Mƶge dir dein Weg leicht werden
Mƶge dir der Wind immer von hinten kommen
Mƶge dir die Sonne warm ins Gesicht scheinen
Mƶge dir ein sanfter Regen auf die Felder fallen
und bis wir uns wiedersehen
mƶge Gott dich in seiner Hand halten.

May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
And rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

Jennifer & Matt’s James Island Wedding

When Jennifer called to ask if I was available for her wedding date, I was so excited to say YES!!!

I had photographed her sister Ashley’s wedding several years ago and remembered how much I loved working with their family then. It’s been a pleasure getting to know Jennifer over the last few months as we ironed out all the details. Last weekend, the big day finally arrived!!!

Jennifer & Matt were married on her cousin’s lawn, on a gorgeous day, overlooking a beautiful creek on James Island Jennifer was absolutely stunning in her elegant wedding gown. It was an honor to finally meet Matt, who is an INCREDIBLE guy, and madly in love with Jennifer!

From the very first touches of makeup, to the grand finale when everyone jumped in the pool…it was clear that this was a match made in heaven! To see the rest of their photos, check out their gallery at http://chrisandcami.zenfolio.com/jennandmatt.

CONGRATULATIONS Jennifer & Matt!!! May your lives continue to be blessed without measure…

Morgan & Ray at the John Rutledge House Inn

What a pleasure it was to photograph Ray & Morgan’s beautiful blended-family wedding last weekend!

Now living in Mississippi, Ray & Morgan planned a fun winter get-away to Charleston with all their amazing children. They stayed at the old historic John Rutledge House Inn, and arranged for the wedding to take place in the picturesque courtyard out back. Rick Burton did a wonderful job performing the nuptials. Then after the “I Do’s”, we all went for a walk-about downtown, stopping for fun and creative images among the many photogenic spots along the way.

I don’t know if you call it an elopement or a destination wedding. Ā But whatever it was that Ray & Morgan planned, it was a BLAST!!! Congratulations to you both, and to your family too! It was an absolute honor to share this special day with you!!!

Jennifer & Rob at Harborside East

An advanced photographer in his own right, I’ve known Rob for a little while now. As much as I respect his work, to be selected by him to photograph his wedding is a true honor! We had so much fun capturing all the beautiful moments of Rob & Jennifer’s wedding at Harborside East two weeks ago today!!!

While on a mission trip together in Guatemala, Rob carefully selected a special ring, hand-woven by locals from native grasses, to use as a symbolic engagement band. Later in the trip, during a quiet, romantic moment, he asked Jennifer to be his wife! Isn’t that an awesome story?!?

Fast forward to two weeks and we find these two soul-mates exchanged their vows overlooking Charleston Harbor from the beautiful deck at Harborside East. Surrounded by close friends and family, cloaked in God’s love, this time they exchanged gold rings, and pledged eternal commitment to one another.

CONGRATULATIONS Jennifer & Rob! In the words of Solomom, ā€œMy beloved is mine and I am his.ā€ Song of Songs 2:16

Olman & Craig at Charlestowne Landing

What a joy it has been to get to know Olman & Craig over this past year! We absolutely LOVE these guys!!!

Olman & Craig met through work, where they are execs at AT&T in Atlanta. They were looking to for a spot to have a nice destination wedding that had a beautiful courtyart surrounded by nature and greenery. They couldn’t have picked a more AMAZING location than Charlestowne Landing!

Their ceremony was held in the gorgeous courtyard at Founder’s Hall in this beautiful historic plantation. But we took advantage of other scenic locations around the grounds as well! In spite of the threatening weather, the ceremony went off without a hitch. Plus Olman & Craig bravely indulged my “creative geekiness” for a few dramatic shots in the misty sprinkle afterwards. šŸ™‚

Many thanks to everyone who helped make their wedding such a huge success! And a special thank you to Jessica for referring these two beautiful soul-mates to us! What a special priviledge it was to capture all the excitement of their wedding day!!!

CONGRATULATIONS Olman & Craig! May your life hereafter be filled with happiness and delight.

Tony & Courtney’s Proposal

It was the end of a long day. I’d already had a full schedule of assignments. But when my friend Robbin asked me to help Tony out, a friend of our mutual friend, Trevor, how could I resist. After all, he was planning to propose to his girlfriend!!!

I absolutely love photographing secret wedding proposals. It’s fun to hide and play “sniper”. But more importantly, it’s such a joy to witness this beautiful once-in-a-lifetime event in a couple’s lives!

Tony & I had grand plans for his proposal at White Point Garden, also known as Battery Park. But not knowing what was in store, Courtney was not playing along! She just didn’t understand why he had to stop and see his “client” before dinner? And why did he have to park so far away, forcing them to walk through the park? But in the end, it worked out PERFECT!!!

Even though they’ve known each other for 7 years, Courtney was completely surprised! For the record, she did say “yes”. šŸ™‚ Well done, Tony…you are THE MAN! Congratulations to you both…

Chase & Courtney’s Carriage Ride Proposal

Valentine’s Day is special to a lot of couples. But this year, it was EXTRA special to Chase & Courtney!!!

A few weeks ago, Chase contacted us to let us know his intentions to propose to his girlfriend. Although they are from North Carolina, Courtney LOVEs the history and charm of Charleston! So Chase thought it would be extra special to bring her down for the weekend, and propose on a carriage tour. He arranged for me to be on the same tour, and I brought Cami so that we could pretend to be just another “tourist” couple in town.

Courtney had absolutely NO clue, and everything went as smoothly and perfectly as could be! It was so much fun being a part of their special day. CONGRATULATIONS Chase & Courtney!!!

New Wedding Wire Review

The holidays are always a favorite time of year for us. But this year’s was made even MORE special when we recieved this wonderful review from Kelli & Tom!

We’re in the running to be named for the prestigious Wedding Wire Couple’s Choice Award again this year…it’ll be our 6th in a row! Kelli & Tom’s kind review couldn’t have come at a better time…it might be just what we needed to make the cut. šŸ™‚

Many thanks to Kelli & Tom…and to ALL our wonderful brides and grooms from 2014. We are so blessed to have THE BEST clients ever!!!