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…

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!!!