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This proposal was extra special to photograph—not just because of the stunning backdrop at Falls Park in Downtown Greenville, but because I’ve known Colby and Wiley Beth for most of their lives!

My sister and Wiley have been best friends since they were three years old, and Colby grew up just around the corner. He and my sister were neighborhood buddies, riding the school bus home together for years. So when Colby’s mom reached out to help plan the big moment, I was all in!

We wanted to make sure everything stayed a surprise for Wiley Beth, so I snuck downtown a few days before to scout out the perfect spot and even filmed some videos to send Colby’s way. To keep things extra stealthy, I worked with his mom so Wiley wouldn’t stumble across any suspicious texts or photos on his phone.

The Big Moment at Falls Park

The big day rolled around with the dreamiest spring weather—73 degrees and sunny! Naturally, Falls Park was packed with people soaking up the warmth. We weren’t sure how this would affect the moment, but honestly, it made it even sweeter. As soon as Colby dropped to one knee, cheers erupted from all around the park. Total strangers celebrated with them—it felt like something out of a movie!

What Wiley didn’t know was that her and Colby’s families had been hiding nearby the whole time. The moment she said yes, they all popped out from behind trees and bushes to join the celebration. There were hugs, happy tears, and so much joy.

Being part of this proposal was such a full-circle moment for me. Getting to witness two people I’ve known since childhood start this new chapter together was truly an honor. Colby and Wiley Beth, thank you for letting me capture the start of your forever. Your love, your people, and that spring sunshine made this day one I’ll never forget.

Here’s to more downtown adventures, more surprise celebrations, and a lifetime of cheering each other on—just like the crowd did that day. 🥂

P.S. If you’re planning a Falls Park proposal, I highly recommend bringing your photographer in early—we love being part of the planning process!

Want to see more of falls park? Check out Lauren & Michael’s Engagement Session in Falls Park!

Your wedding morning sets the tone for the entire day, and no one knows that better than Katie Cotton, the founder of Cotton Rouge. With a team of over 40 hair and makeup artists serving hundreds of brides every year, Katie has perfected the art of creating a smooth, stress-free start to the big day. I had the pleasure of sitting down with her for a recent podcast episode, where we discussed timelines, teamwork, and the secrets to making wedding mornings feel effortless.

Why a Solid Timeline is Everything

One of the biggest mistakes brides make? Not building in enough time for hair and makeup! Katie stressed the importance of buffer time—unexpected delays happen, and having extra minutes built into your schedule can be the difference between a calm morning and a rushed one. She also recommends that brides go first or last in the beauty lineup, depending on their personality. If you’re anxious, getting ready first lets you relax and enjoy the rest of the morning. If you want your makeup to be as fresh as possible, going last might be your best bet.

The Power of a Great Team

Weddings are a production, and every vendor plays a crucial role in making the day seamless. Katie emphasized that when hair and makeup artists work hand-in-hand with planners, photographers, and other vendors, it elevates the entire experience. A well-organized team ensures that the bride and bridal party feel pampered instead of pressured.

Want More Insider Tips?

If you’re a bride-to-be or a wedding vendor looking to streamline your process, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to hear all of Katie’s expert advice on making wedding mornings stress-free and enjoyable.

🎧 Listen now!

Want to hear more expert advice? Check out the podcast: First Look

Katie & Seth’s wedding weekend began with an intimate and joyful rehearsal at the beautiful Duncan Estate. Nestled in Spartanburg, South Carolina, this historic venue set the perfect scene for their closest family and friends to gather before the big day. Having a photographer at your rehearsal dinner is a game-changer, and here’s why!

5 Reasons You Should Have Your Photographer at Your Rehearsal

1. Bonus Location Scouting

Since the rehearsal took place at Duncan Estate, I had extra time to scout the venue. This allowed me to check the lighting, find the best portrait spots, and plan ideal angles for the ceremony. On the wedding day, everything ran smoothly because I already knew the perfect places for key moments!

2. Candid, Unscripted Moments

Rehearsal dinners bring out some of the most genuine emotions. The night was filled with laughter, heartfelt toasts, and happy tears as Katie & Seth’s loved ones shared stories and well-wishes. These relaxed, unscripted moments are just as meaningful as wedding day portraits, adding warmth and personality to their gallery.

3. A More Complete Wedding Story

Your wedding weekend is more than just one day! The rehearsal dinner is part of the full celebration, and capturing it helps tell a richer story. From the elegant dinner setup at Duncan Estate to the intimate conversations shared under twinkling lights, these moments create a beautiful prelude to the main event.

4. I Get to Know Your VIPs

The rehearsal dinner is filled with the people who mean the most to you. By being there, I learned who Katie & Seth’s closest family and friends were, making it easier to capture their interactions on the wedding day. Recognizing these VIPs allowed me to document special connections with even more intention.

5. You’re Already Dressed Up – Why Not?

Katie looked stunning in her carefully chosen rehearsal dinner outfit, and Seth looked equally sharp. Since they were already dressed up, we took advantage of Duncan Estate’s charming gardens for a few extra portraits. It’s a fantastic opportunity to capture another side of a couple’s love story in a different setting.

Photographing the rehearsal dinner at Duncan Estate made Katie & Seth’s wedding story even more complete. If you’re considering having your photographer at your rehearsal, do it! You’ll get relaxed, meaningful moments that add depth to your wedding album and bring your full celebration to life.Why You Should Have Your Photographer at Your Rehearsal: Katie & Seth’s Duncan Estate Celebration

Loved this? Then you will also love Katie & Seth’s engagement session!

Ready to Capture Every Moment?

Your wedding weekend deserves to be fully documented! Let’s make sure every heartfelt toast, joyful laugh, and special moment is captured beautifully. If you want a seamless, stress-free experience with stunning memories from start to finish, let’s chat about adding rehearsal dinner coverage to your wedding photography package! Get in touch today!

Planning a wedding in Greenville, SC, is so exciting but escaping the summer heat can be a real challenge! This area has some fantastic indoor wedding venues. If you’re dreaming of an all-in-one spot for your ceremony and reception, you’re in luck. Here are five indoor wedding venues in Greenville that we absolutely love.

1. Judson Mill

Judson Mill is a perfect blend of industrial charm and modern elegance. This venue offers lots of space and gorgeous natural light. The exposed brick and high ceilings make a stunning backdrop for your ceremony. After saying “I do,” you can celebrate with your guests in the same beautiful setting. Judson Mill has enough room to host both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. Plus, the staff is super helpful, which makes planning a breeze.

2. Southern Bleachery

Southern Bleachery is another Greenville gem, especially if you love a historic vibe. This venue is located in Taylors Mill and has so much character. Picture a ceremony surrounded by white brick walls and large windows. The natural light here is a photographer’s dream! For your reception, the open layout gives you endless design possibilities. Whether you want a modern look or something more rustic, Southern Bleachery can pull it off. Bonus: it’s right in the heart of Taylors, close to local breweries and shops.

3. Zen

Zen is a beautiful venue that combines style and versatility. Located in downtown Greenville, it’s perfect for couples wanting a sophisticated space. The venue features modern decor, sleek lines, and customizable layouts. You can hold your ceremony in their indoor garden room, which has a serene ambiance. Afterward, the reception space transforms into a lively area for dining and dancing. Zen’s team is known for their attention to detail, making sure your day runs smoothly.

No matter the season, these Greenville indoor wedding venues provide the perfect setting for a beautiful and stress-free celebration. Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant ballroom or a cozy, intimate space, these venues ensure your day is picture-perfect—rain or shine! If you’re looking for a wedding photographer to capture every moment, I’d love to chat. Contact me here to start planning your dream wedding photography!

Your engagement session is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. It’s a chance to celebrate your love while capturing beautiful photos you’ll cherish forever. To make sure your session goes smoothly and feels fun, here are six easy tips to help you prepare for your engagement session!

1. Coordinate Your Outfits

Choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable. Start with a color palette that complements your skin tone and the location of your session. Avoid overly busy patterns and logos—simple and timeless looks are best. Bring a second outfit for variety, like one dressy and one casual option. Most importantly, wear something you can move in comfortably!

2. Plan Around Golden Hour

Golden hour, the hour before sunset, provides the most flattering light. Work with your photographer to schedule your session during this magical time. If morning light suits you better, sunrise is another great option. Trust us—the light makes a huge difference in creating dreamy photos.

3. Pamper Yourselves

Take the day to relax and get camera-ready. Schedule a manicure, get your hair styled, or have your makeup professionally done. These little details make a big impact on your photos. For grooms, a fresh haircut and clean-shaven or well-groomed beard can enhance your look.

4. Bring Meaningful Props

Think about items that tell your story as a couple. A cozy blanket, your favorite books, or even your dog can add a personal touch. Props help tell your love story and create fun, candid moments.

5. Clean the Ring

Your engagement ring is a star of the session, so make sure it shines! Clean it beforehand to remove any dirt or smudges. A sparkling ring adds an extra touch of elegance to your photos.

6. Communicate with Your Photographer

Share your vision with your photographer ahead of time. Discuss any must-have shots or unique ideas you have. Let them know about your comfort level in front of the camera so they can guide you. Open communication helps your session feel relaxed and authentic.

Your engagement session is all about celebrating your relationship. Follow these tips, and you’ll have a stress-free session filled with laughter and love. We can’t wait to capture these memories for you!

Looking for more engagement session tips? Elizabeth & Mikes Winter Engagement Session

Ready for me to capture your special moments? Reach out now: Contact

Who is Bella Luna?

Bella Luna BTS is a husband-and-wife team that captures the magic happening behind the scenes on wedding days. They aren’t photographers or videographers. Instead, they focus on the raw, in-between moments that often go unnoticed. From the excited nerves before walking down the aisle to the behind-the-scenes dance party with the bridal party, they bring a fresh perspective. Their goal is to document the little details and emotions that make each wedding unique.

Why They Do What They Do

Olivia and Alejandro are a husband and wife team. Their business is Bella Luna BTS, they believe that the best moments at a wedding aren’t always the ones posed for a camera. They love showcasing the real energy of the day. Whether it’s the DJ figuring out the perfect song to keep the dance floor alive or a bride soaking in a quiet moment before saying “I do,” they capture the heartbeat of the celebration. They’ve seen firsthand how these candid memories become just as meaningful as the big, planned moments.

Choosing What Matters Most

Wedding planning can feel overwhelming with endless trends and social media pressures. Olivia and Alejandro tackled this by focusing on what mattered most to them. While Olivia, was focused on sentimentality, Alejandro, wanted an exceptional guest experience. Every decision was filtered through those priorities. If something didn’t align, they let it go. This mindset made their wedding feel personal, intentional, and “timeless to them.” Trends will change, but when a wedding reflects who you truly are, it will always feel right.

Your wedding should be about you. Choose what matters most, and don’t stress about the rest!

Looking for a photographer? Think we will be a good fit? Reach out here: Contact

Check out more on the podcast: First Look.

Want to connect with Bella Luna BTS? Follow them on Instagram