A change of plans
When Andrew and Kate reached out to me to be their photographer, their original plan was to have an intimate wedding in Asheville, NC. But, as with many things in life, the unexpected happened. Just days before their big day, Hurricane Helene swept through Western North Carolina, causing devastation beyond our worth nightmares and made it impossible to stick to the original plan. I faked keeping it cool, we took lots of deep breaths, and got to work.
With their loved ones already set to travel and the date non-negotiable, we had to act fast. When Kate called asking if I’d be willing to head a bit farther to Charleston, SC, I didn’t hesitate for a second. In less than 48 hours, their wedding was completely replanned in a new state, and I we were all beyond excited for their newly planned wedding in Charleston, SC!
The perfect Charleston day
On the morning of Andrew and Kate’s wedding, we were greeted with the most beautiful, sunny Charleston weather- it was the warmest of welcomes to the seaside. There was a palpable feeling of gratitude in the air as their favorite people gathered to celebrate this meaningful moment in their lives. As someone who grew up just three hours north of Charleston in Wilmington, NC, the low country feels like home to me. The relaxed, laid-back atmosphere of Charleston was the perfect reflection of Andrew and Kate’s warm and inviting personalities. It felt like their wedding was meant to be in this very place all along.
A change of venues- Laurel Hill County Park
Thanks to the flexibility of having a Thursday wedding, Andrew and Kate were able to secure a stunning new venue at Laurel Hill County Park in Mount Pleasant. Surrounded by their closest family and friends under the shade of a breathtaking oak alley, they said their vows in a setting that felt both intimate and grand. The warm sun filtered through the Spanish moss-draped trees, creating a dreamlike scene as Andrew and Kate promised their forever to each other. After the Ceremony, we spent some time just the three of us. They exchanged tearful private vows and we took some truly stunning, quintessential Charleston wedding portraits!
The Reception at Vintage Lounge
After the ceremony, we made our way to downtown Charleston for a reception at Vintage Lounge. The private back patio was the perfect spot for Andrew and Kate to relax and enjoy cocktails, snacks, and desserts with their guests. I’m still dreaming about the mini chicken and waffles that were served—they were absolutely delicious! Kate changed into her reception dress and we snuck off for a few minutes for a few more bride and groom portraits! Afterwards they cut their cake with a comically large knife and spent quality time with the people they love the most.
Capturing authenticity above all else
In their pre-wedding questionnaire, Andrew and Kate had said they were drawn to my photography because of how I capture authentic, in-the-moment memories that are unique to each couple’s story. Hearing that feedback made me so excited to document their day, and I knew we were the perfect match! After delivering their sneak peek and film photos, Kate texted me, saying, “I’ve never cried over photos before🥹thank you sooo much. Cannot wait to see the rest!” Moments like that remind me why I love what I do and no matter how the plans change, your love for one another is all the really matter. True love and real, authentic moments will always outshine the landscape your married in.
Andrew and Kate’s wedding was warm, meaningful, and filled with so much joy, and I’m so grateful to have been part of their journey. Even though their original plan changed, their day turned out to be nothing short of perfect.
In case you don't know me
Hi friend and welcome! I am Jo, a wedding photographer based out of Charlotte, serving the North Carolina, South Carolina, and beyond! I’m always here to help you capture your love story in the most authentic and beautiful way possible—no matter what surprises life throws your way! Learn more about me here.
