Taj & Michael at The Lakehouse at Bulow

Taj & Michael contacted me back in January about photographing their intimate wedding at The Lakehouse at Bulow.

Bulow Plantation is a beautiful log cabin venue on a serene lake with a gorgeous bridge extending out to an island covered in pine trees. Because they love nature and the great outdoors, Taj & Michael had initially thought about a beach wedding. Then they fell in love with the idea of getting married amongst the majestic pine trees. But Michael took it one step further and had some beach sand brought in so they could still get married in bare feet on a mound of soothing sand…the best of both worlds!

Taj & Michael were an absolute joy to be arround! Their positive energy and kind spirits made it evident why they had so many close friends who had traveled far and wide to celebrate with them. Their love and connection to one another shone in their eyes. I had so much fun capturing all the special moments of their Big Day!!!

CONGRATULATIONS Taj & Michael! We wish you all the best as you begin your new journey together, with or without shoes…

Kelsey & Evan’s Wedding at Alhambra Hall

Last weekend, I had the incredible pleasure of photographing Kelsey and Evan’s stunning wedding at Alhambra Hall in picturesque Mt. Pleasant, SC. It was a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments against the backdrop of Charleston’s cityscape across the harbor.

Kelsey was absolutely gorgeous in her exquisite gown. If you haven’t already, check out the beautiful portraits from her Bridal Shoot here: https://chrisandcami.com/kelseys-bridal-portraits-at-waterfront-park/. After her mom and maid of honor helped get her ready, Kelsey had a private First Look with her dad, and her step-dad…followed by a fun “reveal” to the rest of her bridesmaids. Evan looked quite dashing in his suit classic navy suit as well.

Their love and excitement were palpable throughout the day, from the tender moments during the ceremony to the lively celebration with family and friends during the reception.  As a wedding photographer, my goal is always to not only document the events of the day but to also capture the emotions and atmosphere that make each wedding unique. Kelsey and Evan’s wedding was a photographer’s dream, with plenty of candid moments and genuine expressions that truly reflected their love story.

One of the highlights was photographing the couple during sunset. Hidden behind low-hanging clouds for much of the afternoon, the fiery sun revealed itself for a brief moment through a sliver in the sky just as it hit the horizon near the famous Arthur Ravenel Bridge. This creating a dramatic backdrop for their final portraits before the party kicked into top gear.

The reception was an absolute BLAST!!!  From their grand entrance to the heartfelt toasts, from the anniversary dance to the bouquet toss, from the cake cutting to the final sparkler exit…it was an absolute joy to witness Kelsey & Evan’s excitement as they danced and celebrated this milestone surrounded by their loved ones.

I’m grateful to have been a part of Kelsey and Evan’s special day. It’s weddings like theirs that remind me why I love what I do—capturing true love, eternal joy, and new beginnings.

Congratulations Kelsey & Evan! We wish you all the happiness in the world as you begin your new journey together as husband and wife!!!

Chelsea & Trey’s Wedding at Pametto Dunes Resort

As a photographer, every wedding tells a unique story, and Chelsea and Trey’s special day at Palmetto Dunes Resort on Hilton Head Island was no exception. Despite unexpected rain showers challenging their plans for a beach ceremony, their love shone brighter than the sun, creating unforgettable memories against the stunning backdrop of this coastal paradise.

The day began with an air of anticipation as Chelsea prepared for her big moment at the Windsor Place condos. The excitement in the air was palpable, with laughter and joy filling the room. Meanwhile, Trey, no doubt equally eager and nervous, awaited the moment he would see his bride. The beautiful couple met in the private garden for their First Look, exchanging some personal vows they had written for one another. Just as they finished this touching moment, family began to arrive for some fun group portraits!

Although they had hoped for a beach wedding with sand under their feet, and blue skies above…Mother Nature had other plans. As raindrops fell, the dream of exchanging vows on the sandy shores seemed to drift away. But Chelsea and Trey weren’t about to let a little rain dampen their spirits. With grace and flexibility, they embraced the change, moving their ceremony to the exquisite Centre Court Pavilion, a setting just as enchanting as the beach itself. Against the backdrop of an elegant arbor, draped in white linens and palmetto greens, Chelsea and Trey exchanged heartfelt vows, surrounded by their closest friends and family. The love and warmth that filled the air were a testament to the deep bond shared between the couple and their loved ones.

Following the ceremony, dinner, and a warm toast by the father of the bride…the skies cleared and the sun made a triumphant appearance! I had the privilege of capturing some breathtaking portraits of Chelsea and Trey in the surrounding woodlands and trails. The golden hour bathed them in a warm, ethereal glow, lending an extra touch of magic to their already radiant smiles.

The magic didn’t stop there. As evening descended, the celebration kicked into high gear, marking the beginning of a joyous evening ahead. After their First Dance, and parent dances, just when we thought the day couldn’t get any more enchanting, Chelsea’s family from Jordan took center stage, leading everyone in lively Middle Eastern dances that brought the house down. It was a beautiful fusion of cultures and traditions, a testament to the power of love to unite people from all walks of life. As I watched Chelsea and Trey twirl and laugh, surrounded by their loved ones, I couldn’t help but feel grateful to be a part of such a special moment.

In the end, Chelsea and Trey’s wedding at Palmetto Dunes Resort was a reminder that love is not just about perfect moments, but about embracing the unexpected twists and turns that life throws our way. As their photographer, I was honored to capture each and every precious moment, preserving their love story for generations to come.

Please help me send a huge CONGRATULATIONS to Chelse & Trey as they begin this new journey together!!!

Carolyn & Colin’s Wedding at I’On Creek Club

As a wedding photographer, I often find myself privileged to capture the love stories of couples like Carolyn and Colin. Their recent wedding at the picturesque I’On Creek Club was nothing short of magical. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the serene ambiance of the venue, nestled along the tranquil water’s edge. The natural beauty of the surroundings served as a perfect backdrop for their special day.

Carolyn and Colin’s love for each other was palpable throughout the entire event. From the tender moments shared during their intimate ceremony to the joyous celebrations that followed, every photograph captured reflected the depth of their connection. It was evident that their family and friends played a significant role in their lives, as laughter and heartfelt embraces filled the air.

As an added bonus, my good friend and amazing photographer, Mic, agreed to second-shoot their wedding. His daughter is best friends with Carolyn’s sister, the maid of honor. So their two families already shared a wonderful connection. Many thanks to Mic for capturing some amazing moments!

Carolyn and Colin’s wedding at the I’On Creek Club was a beautiful testament to love, commitment, and the joy of starting a new chapter together. It was an honor to document their special day. And we wish them a lifetime of happiness and adventure ahead as they begin this new journey together!

Madi & Connor’s Wedding on The Carolina Girl

Love stories are often written against the backdrop of picturesque settings. In spite of the weather last weekend, Madi and Connor’s wedding on The Carolina Girl Yacht in Charleston was nothing short of a romantic masterpiece. I had the incredible honor of documenting their special day…and it was a breathtaking experience from start to finish.

The choice of The Carolina Girl Yacht as the venue added an extra layer of magic to Madi and Connor’s nuptials. Docked in the charming city of Charleston, this luxury yacht offered a unique and intimate setting where they could exchange vows, with the stunning backdrop of the harbor and the city skyline in the distance. The gentle sway of the yacht created an atmosphere of tranquility, making it a fantastic experience.

Timing is everything in photography. Although the skies were overcast and dreary all day, capturing the beautiful “blue hour” on the water was a stroke of luck that added an ethereal glow to the couple’s portraits. As daylight turned to night, the gray clouds took on a magical blue hue. Using a warming gel, I contrasted the blue with a single off-camera flash to create a romantic warm light, embracing Madi and Connor for a few intimate portraits before darkness set in. The resulting photographs are nothing short of magical, with the couple’s love radiating against the breathtaking storm clouds.

Madi and Connor’s wedding was a celebration of nautical elegance, with the yacht’s sleek lines and classic design providing a sophisticated backdrop. The bride’s gown billowed gracefully in the sea breeze, and the groom looked dapper in his sharp suit. The details, from the maritime-themed decorations to the colorful floral arrangements, added a personal touch to the day, creating a visual feast for the lens.

One of the joys of photographing weddings is capturing the genuine emotions and candid moments that unfold throughout the day. From the laughter shared during the toasts to the tearful embraces between family and friends, Madi and Connor’s wedding was a treasure trove of heartfelt moments. These candid shots serve as a timeless reminder of the love and joy that surrounded the couple on their special day.

Photographing Madi and Connor’s wedding on The Carolina Girl Yacht was a truly unforgettable experience. The combination of a stunning venue, the natural beauty of the surroundings, the gorgeous couple, and the love in their eyes, all came together to create a visual narrative that will be cherished for years to come. It is indeed moments like these that remind me of the power of love, and of how privileged I am to be able to do what I love!

CONGRATULATIONS to Madi & Connor!!! We wish you all the best as you begin your new journey together…

Nicki & Mark’s Maggie Valley Wedding

Love is a journey. For Nicki and Mark, that journey led them to the breathtaking Barn Star Event venue in Maggie Valley for their destination wedding. As a photographer, I had the incredible privilege of capturing the magical moments of their special day, where love, laughter, and natural beauty collided to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Nestled on the outskirts of Maggie Valley, the Barn Star Event venue proved to be the perfect canvas for Nicki and Mark’s love story. Surrounded by the majestic Smoky Mountains, the family-owned venue exuded rustic charm and natural elegance. The picturesque landscape provided a stunning backdrop for every photograph, from the intimate ceremony to the lively reception.

The ceremony was a symphony of emotions, set against the backdrop of the rolling hills and clear blue skies. Nicki, radiant in her elegant gown, walked down the aisle escorted by her best friend and soon-to-be-husband. Their spirit-led exchange of vows under the open sky, with the mountains as witnesses, was a truly magical moment that I was honored to capture.

One of the highlights of photographing Nicki and Mark was the opportunity to explore the venue’s scenic surroundings for stunning portraits. The couple’s genuine joy and love for each other were evident in every frame, whether against the rustic barn, under the arbor, or against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. The natural light played its part perfectly. And as day turned to dus, we were able to create magical and timeless images that truly reflected the essence of their love.

Photographing Nicki and Mark’s destination wedding was a journey into love and beauty. The combination of a picturesque location, a wonderful couple filled with true love, and the unique details of their celebration resulted in a collection of images that will forever tell the story of their special day.  I’d like to give a HUGE Thank You to my cousin, Beth of Beth Brown Photography for capturing the drone photos during the ceremony!

CONGRATULATIONS Nicki & Mark!!! We wish you all the happiness in the world as you begin this new journey together…

Emily & Halen’s Wedding at the I’On Creek Club

There’s an inexplicable joy in capturing the essence of love and commitment through the lens of a camera. As a photographer, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing and documenting numerous weddings, each with its own unique charm and beauty. However, Emily and Halen’s wedding at the I’On Creek Club last weekend stands out as an extraordinary celebration of love and happiness!!!

Nestled amidst the serene landscape overlooking lowcountry marsh, the I’On Creek Club provided an idyllic backdrop for this joyous occasion. From the moment I arrived, the air buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The venue’s natural beauty, overlooking the glistening waters, set the stage for an enchanting ceremony that promised to be a photographer’s dream.

The day began with the pre-ceremony preparations, an intimate time filled with nervous excitement and laughter. Emily, adorned in her stunning gown, exuded elegance and grace, while Halen’s anticipation was palpable. Every moment was a canvas waiting to be painted.  And I was honored to capture the raw emotions and candid moments that made their story come alive.

As the ceremony commenced, the golden hour cast a warm glow, enhancing the enchanting ambiance. Against the backdrop of the Creek Club’s breathtaking views, Emily and Halen exchanged their vows, while I focused on immortalizing those heartfelt promises and the tears of joy that glistened in their eyes.

The reception was a jubilant affair, brimming with wonderful toasts, lively dancing, and unfiltered merriment. From their grand entrance, to their bubble-filled sendoff, every instance was a treasure trove of emotions and connections, waiting to be framed in a photograph.

What made this wedding particularly enjoyable to me was not just the stunning venue or the elegant decorations, but the genuine love and connection between Emily and Halen. Their affection was evident in every stolen glance, every tender touch, and every shared smile. It was a pleasure to freeze those moments in time, knowing that these photographs would become cherished memories for years to come.

The wedding at the Creek Club was not just an event; it was a symphony of emotions, a celebration of love and commitment, and an amalgamation of moments that will forever be etched in the hearts of everyone present. As I packed up my equipment that night and bid adieu to this remarkable day, I left with a heart brimming with contentment, knowing that I had the honor of documenting a love story so pure and beautiful.

CONGRATULATIONS Emily & Halen!!! Photographing your wedding was not just another job; it was a profound privilege to be part of. We wish you all the happiness in the world as you begin this new journey together…

Bri & Andrew’s Wedding at The Oasis

Cami and I have been looking forward to Bri and Andrew’s wedding for a long time!  Andrew is Cami’s awesome nephew. We were so happy when he found his soulmate in Bri. Together they have built a wonderful life together, which includes their adorable little daughter, Marley!

Their wedding day turned out to have the most perfect weather any bride and groom could ever hope for…sunny and seventies with blue skies and puffy white clouds. It was held at The Oasis Conference Center in Loveland, OH…a picturesque venue right on the golf course.

Bri was absolutely stunning in her cathedral length gown and flowing lace veil! My favorite part of her enseble was her cool blue Converse sneakers! Andrew was looking sharp too, in his charcoal suit and white bowtie.

The service was really special, and included a unique unity ceremony, where Bri and Andrew brought a sapling from their yard which was set on a table under their arbor. During the service, they each took turns pouring mason jars of soil from his family home and her family home, which they combined with the soil already in the pot from THEIR home!

CONGRATULATIONS Bri & Andrew! We wish you all the best as you begin this new chapter in your lives!!!

Abby & David’s Wedding at The Millstone

I grew up in Zaire, now known as the Congo (DRC). So did my friend Beth. Now imagine my excitement one day when Beth sent me a message that they were visiting her son and his fiance and wanted to know if I was available to photograph their wedding!?!

Abby & David tied the knot last weekend at The Millstone. Filled with natural landscaping, the grounds at the Millstone was the perfect spot for their celebration! Located just outside Johnson City, TN, the mill itself has been restored into a stunning venue, while still preserving the history and charm that has been a part of this farming community since 1811.

Abby was absolutely stunning in her fairytale wedding gown! I loved her elegant poise, kind eyes, and gentle soul. David looked really sharp in his plum suit and floral tie.  He’s got an easy-going personality, an inviting smile, and an amazingly creative spirit.  They both wore matching sneakers…which is something they’ve done since they started dating!

The wedding ceremony was made extra special with Abby’s brother, Landin, who is in seminary, leading the vows. Plus, David’s grandfather, who we lovingly call by his African nickname, “Babu”, led the unity ceremony and prayed a blessing over the beautiful couple. The sun was out. The bird’s were singing. Abby and David were enveloped withinin the love and support of their closest friends and family. It truly was a special day!

After the ceremony, a delightful reception was held inside the old restored mill. Food, drinks, dancing, mingling, cake, toasts, and a grand departure…they had it all. I have to confess, it was difficult to contain the lump in my throat during the heartfelt toasts. When those emotions welled up around the room, it was a clear sign to me that Abby & David are truly and deeply loved!!!

CONGRATULATIONS Abby & David! We wish you all the happiness in the world as you begin your new journey together as husband and wife…

Anna and Christian at The Citadel Beach Club

Anna went to Charleston Southern University and now works with Coastal Kids Dentistry.  Christian is currently stationed with the Army on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.  They went to the same high-school, but didn’t really hang out together at first because they were both dating different people.  When those relationships ended, they started hanging out in group of singles where Anna & Christian made a real connection with each other.  They started dating…and the rest is history!

Christian’s family is originally from Pittsburg.  But they moved to Summerville years ago, which is where Anna and Christian ended up meeting at school.  Anna’s family is full of educators.  Her mom is a math teacher.  And her  grandfather is a retired Citadel professor in the Education department.  Plus Anna’s dad is a Citadel alumni.  So it was quite fitting that they had their ceremony at the beautiful Citadel Beach Club!

It was a gorgeous summer day, albeit a little hot outside.  But that didn’t stop everyone from coming out and celebrating the love Anna & Christian have for each other!  Anna was absolutely stunning in her cathedral-length wedding gown, complete with long flowing veil.  Christian was smartly decked out in his blue suit and bowtie.  The ceremony was heart-felt.  And the reception afterwards was a joyful celebration like no other!!!

Many thanks to Anna’s mom for all her hard work and planning, to  Jessica at Lowcountry Weddings for keeping everything organized, to Pastor Eric for the touching ceremony, Chris at Country & Lace for the floral arrangements, Flavours of Charleston for the delicious food, Mikey Lee for rocking the awesome tunes all night long, and all the other vendors who helped make Anna & Christian’s day a huge success!

CONTRATULATIONS Anna & Christian!!!  We wish you all the best as you begin this beautiful new journey together…

Amanda & Bryan at Summerall Chapel

Amanda & Bryan are the sweetest people you could ever hope to meet!

Bryan graduated from The Citadel back in ’96. He and Amanda now live in Ohio. When they decided to get married, all he wanted was to be able to return to The Citadel and marry the girl of his dreams in the iconic Summerall Chapel! So Amanda planned a beautiful destination wedding to Charleston with just a few close friends and family. Bryan and Amanda each have kids. Which made it extra special as their blended family came together and made the long trip in support of this amazing couple!

Amanda and her girls got ready in the adjacent Mark Clark building before being picked up by a Rolls Royce to drive her around the quad to the wedding. Bryan got ready at Summerall Chapel, where he was able to greet guests and welcome everyone. The ceremony was absolutely beautiful, including a special sand-ceremony at the alter, and a spectacular sword arch at the end. Afterwards, Amanda had arranged for a private photo session in Bryan’s old barracks! How cool is that?!? We then returned to their families back at the church for group photos. And finally, we headed over to Hampton Park where the newlyweds could enjoy a few minutes together before joining everyone for dinner.

CONGRATULATIONS Amanda & Bryan! We wish you all the best as you begin your new journey together…

Liza & Joe’s Destination Wedding in Madison

Joe is Cami’s second cousin. So, when Joe and Liza contacted us to ask if we would photograph their wedding, we were elated! We were excited to be going to Madison for a destination wedding. Cami spent several summers in that area while growing up, visiting her aunt, uncle, and cousins in Port Edwards.

It was a beautiful day for the wedding. We were happy that it took place inside the Goodman Community Center where Liza works, as it was a 90 degree day! The guys started getting ready on the top floor, while the ladies were in a room on the main floor. Joe looked very handsome in his suit. Liza looked stunning, with her amazing daughter, Lily helping with makeup. Liza’s wedding gown was absolutely elegant! After everyone was dressed to the nines, Liza & Joe had their first glance on a beautiful lawn across from the wedding venue…followed by family and wedding party photos.

The wedding was led by Joe’s mother, Susan, and included a touching hand binding ceremony. The flower girl, Emilia, drew lots of smiles as she walked down the aisle, throwing the flower petals up behind her back. After the ceremony, we captured some fun photos of Joe & Liza, their first shots as a married couple, while everyone else headed to the Brassworks Building for the cocktail hour and reception.

A warm welcome by Joe’s dad, Don, and a delicious meal awaited everyone at the reception. Lively chatter and fun festivities carried on throughout the night. Cake cutting, and touching toasts also ensued. Eventually, James, with the Juke Box Bandstand started jamming and the party kicked into high gear! Everyone was dancing and singing and having a BLAST!!! But finally it was time to bid Eliza & Joe a fond farewell.

Many thanks to all of the fine folks from the Goodman Community Center for all of their help in making the wedding a huge success. Also, a huge shout out to all the vendors who made this special day possible.

CONGRATULATIONS Liza & Joe!!! It was an absolute honor to capture all the beautiful memories of this special day for you. We wish you all the best as you begin this new journey together.