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Earlier this year, Caleb proposed to Casey at Black Balsam Knob. It’s a well-loved hiking spot along the Blue Ridge Parkway, with sweeping views that feel endless. When it came time to plan their engagement photos, they knew exactly where they wanted to go. Returning to the same mountain where they got engaged felt both sentimental and meaningful. This mountain engagement session was not only about photos, but also about revisiting a place that had already become an important part of their story.

The Journey to the Summit

This past Thursday, I set out to meet them for their session. I drove two hours into the mountains, passing through winding roads that climbed higher with every mile. Once I arrived at the trailhead, we started the one-mile hike to the summit. It’s not a long trail, but it is steady uphill the entire way. At the top, we were rewarded with some of the most incredible views. Black Balsam Knob offers 365° scenery, with layers of mountains rolling into the distance. The open landscape made it easy to move around, explore different spots, and capture their photos against the dramatic backdrop.

Evening on the Mountain

The weather was cloudy but calm for most of the session. The clouds added depth and mood to the sky without blocking the views. Casey and Caleb enjoyed being back in a place that already held so much meaning, and we took time exploring different angles of the summit. Each spot gave us a new perspective of the mountains, and every direction felt like the perfect backdrop.

As we wrapped up and began the hike back, the rain started to fall. At first it was a light drizzle, but by the time we reached the tree line, it had become steadier. We made the one-mile hike down in the dark and wet, using a flashlight to light the trail. Once I left the trailhead, the drive home was another two hours through thunderstorms. The evening turned into an adventure from start to finish, but it felt fitting for such an epic location.

Why Mountain Engagement Sessions Stand Out

Mountain engagement sessions are about more than just the views. They are about the experience of being in a location that means something to you. For Casey and Caleb, Black Balsam Knob was the perfect choice because it marked both their proposal and their engagement photos. It tied their story together in a way that was unique and true to them. If you’re considering a mountain engagement session, let this be your encouragement—it may take a little extra effort, but the views and memories are always worth it.

If you are dreaming of a mountain engagement session, let this be your sign. The hike may be steep, and the weather unpredictable, but the reward is always worth it. Reach out now! Contact.

Want to see more of the mountains? Check out this blog of Anna & Tylers Mountain Wedding.

Taylor Swift’s engagement made the internet collectively gasp. Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or a casual observer, there’s no denying that her wedding will ripple far beyond the couple themselves. Much like the way Princess Diana and Prince Charles’ wedding in the ‘80s shaped bridal fashion for a generation, or how Justin and Hailey Bieber set off a wave of pared-down, modern bridal looks, Taylor’s choices will influence countless weddings to come. The sheer scale of her fanbase means the wedding industry is about to see a seismic shift.

But here’s the thing: trends are fun, inspiring, and exciting—but your wedding should still feel like you. Let’s look at a few areas where we’ll likely see Swift’s influence, and how you can make them your own.

1. Photography: Finding Your Style

Taylor leans toward a moodier, cinematic aesthetic in the photos she shares. If her wedding images reflect this style, expect couples everywhere to ask for dark, romantic tones. Here’s my gentle reminder: you don’t need to copy her to have beautiful images. Photography is one of the most personal decisions you’ll make, and your photos should reflect your story—not just the latest trend. If you love timeless, true-to-color images that never feel dated, that’s where my style shines. Trends will come and go, but your wedding photos are forever. Reach out to me for that true-to-color vibe.

2. Flowers: Big, Bold, and Possibly Unexpected

If there’s one place Taylor might surprise us, it’s florals. She’s known for her storytelling, so I imagine her flowers will carry hidden meanings—think Shakespearean references, nods to her songs, or blooms connected to love stories in history. Suddenly, we may see couples requesting florals inspired by lyrics or symbolism (lavender haze bouquets, anyone?). This is where it gets fun: while Taylor’s flowers will set a tone, you can use her creativity as inspiration without losing yourself in it. Want flowers that speak your love story? Choose blooms tied to your own memories—maybe the wildflowers you picked on your first date, or the peonies your grandmother grew.

3. Dresses: All the Outfit Changes

If there’s one thing we can predict, it’s that Taylor will not stop at one dress. She has always leaned into transformation, so we could see a ceremony gown, a reception gown, and maybe even a surprise after-party look. Designers will rush to release multi-look bridal collections, and suddenly, everyone will want more than one outfit. My take? Have fun with this idea, but also keep your budget and personality in mind. One thoughtfully chosen gown that makes you feel like yourself will always outshine three dresses that don’t.

4. Music & Entertainment: Experiences Over Playlists

It feels safe to assume that Taylor’s wedding will have unforgettable music moments—whether it’s a surprise guest, live orchestral arrangements, or carefully crafted playlists. This could usher in a wave of couples placing greater emphasis on entertainment: think immersive performances, string quartets playing modern hits, or personalized first dance songs. Music has always been central to weddings, but Taylor might push couples to dream bigger about how entertainment can set the tone of their day.

What Taylor Swift’s Engagement Means for Your Wedding

Taylor Swift’s engagement will undoubtedly influence trends, but your wedding isn’t a stadium tour—it’s your story. Whether you lean into her style or chart your own path, the most lasting wedding trend will always be authenticity. My clients are the kind of people who want timeless images that tell their story, not someone else’s. And that’s something no trend can replace.

As the buzz around Taylor Swift’s engagement continues to grow, it’s exciting to imagine the inspiration her wedding will spark. Just remember: inspiration is wonderful, but your wedding should be a reflection of you.

✨ Inspired by the buzz around Taylor Swift’s engagement but want photos that feel timeless and true to you? ✨
 Let’s chat about capturing your wedding day in a way that’s uniquely yours. Say Hi Here to start the conversation—I’d love to hear your story.

Let’s talk about styled shoots. You might be asking: what is a styled shoot? But I promise, you’ve definitely seen them.

A stunning couple in designer outfits. A jaw-dropping bouquet. A reception table that looks like it belongs in a magazine. And maybe you’ve thought: “That’s can’t be a real wedding.”

You’re absolutely right. It’s not. Anyway, here’s the thing—styled shoots aren’t pretending to be real weddings.

They’re here to inspire you. And as a wedding photographer, I’m here to say: styled shoots are actually a gift to couples.Here’s why.

Think of Styled Shoots as a Wedding Mood Board—But Better

When you’re scrolling through Instagram or Pinterest then saving all those swoon-worthy images, chances are a lot of them come from styled shoots. And that’s not a bad thing! These styled sessions give you a chance to see how ideas come together in real life.

• You can see what a burnt orange color palette looks like at golden hour.
• You can see how velvet napkins photograph.
• You can even figure out if you love (or hate) the look of a dramatic cathedral veil.

Styled shoots give you the freedom to dream without the pressure of logistics. No need to worry about what fits your guest count or your venue restrictions just yet—you’re simply gathering inspiration.

It’s like flipping through a wedding magazine, but the ideas feel more current, more creative, and more possible. Styled Shoots Across America, for example, brings together incredible vendor teams to create these inspirational setups specifically to spark ideas for couples like you.

They’re Not Fake—They’re Focused

One of the biggest misunderstandings about styled shoots is that they’re “fake.” But let’s reframe that.

Styled shoots are intentionally curated. That means there’s time to fluff the dress, perfect the table, and wait for the light to hit just right.

It’s not meant to reflect the pace of a real wedding day—it’s meant to highlight possibilities.

They show what’s possible when the details are thoughtfully planned and the timeline allows space for creativity. And while your wedding may be more fast-paced and joyfully chaotic, seeing these types of images helps you decide what matters to you.

Love the flat lay of vintage stamps and hand-torn paper? Awesome—now you know to ask your stationer for that.
Drawn to the soft, romantic light in a specific photo? That’s a clue you might want golden hour portraits in your timeline.

Styled shoots give you tools to translate your vision into real wedding-day decisions.

Final Thoughts: Use Styled Shoots to Clarify, Not Compare

Here’s the truth: your real wedding doesn’t need to look like a styled shoot to be beautiful.

Styled sessions are here to inspire you, not overwhelm you. They’re creative playgrounds where vendors explore new trends, show off their work, and spark ideas for couples planning weddings of their own.

So next time you’re scrolling and saving, don’t stress about whether it’s a styled shoot or a real wedding. Ask yourself: What do I love about this? How can I bring this feeling into our day—our way?

Use styled shoots to clarify what you want—not to compare your wedding to someone else’s.

Because trust me, your love story, your people, your joy? That’s the real magic. And no styled shoot can top that.

P.S. If you ever wonder whether something in my portfolio was part of a styled shoot or a real wedding—just ask! I’m always happy to share and help you use inspiration in a way that feels like you. 💛

When you’re scrolling through a wedding gallery, you’re probably not thinking, “Ah yes, that’s a beautifully posed image” or “Wow, what an authentic candid!” But as a photographer, I’m thinking about that all the time—because candid, posed, and prompted photography each play a different role in telling your story.

If you’re planning your wedding and wondering what kind of photos to expect (or what you actually want), let’s break it down:

Posed Photography

These are your classic, timeless shots. Everyone’s looking at the camera, standing in the right spot, smiling at the right time. This includes wedding party portraits, family formals, and that iconic couple shot with your veil perfectly placed.

Yes, they might feel a little more structured—but here’s the thing:
These are the photos your grandma wants for her mantle.
And honestly? You’ll be glad you have them, too.

They’re the ones you frame, the ones you send to your parents, and the ones that get passed down over the years. Posed photos aren’t the most “fun” part of the day, but they matter. I make it as painless (and quick!) as possible so you can get back to the celebration.

Candid Photography

Candid photos are the ones that just happen. A tear sliding down your cheek during vows. The best man cracking a joke that actually lands. Your flower girl dancing in the middle of the aisle because she forgot her job and just felt the music.

These moments are unposed, unplanned, and 100% real. I don’t step in or direct anything—I just watch for the moments that matter and quietly document them while you live them.

These are the images that bring it all rushing back in the best way. They’re emotional, often a little imperfect, and they tell the story you didn’t even know you were writing.

Prompted Photography

Prompted photos live in that sweet spot between posed and candid. I’ll give you a bit of direction—not to control the moment, but to guide it. Instead of “stand here and smile,” I might say:

• “Hold hands and walk like you had a bit too much wine.”
• “Whisper your Chipotle order to each other using your sexxy voice.”
• “Pull them in like you’re proud you tricked them into marrying you.”
• “Show me the rings!”

What I won’t say: “Look deeply into each other’s eyes and imagine your 10-year anniversary.”
That’s just not the vibe.

Prompted photos are natural with a little help. They feel like you, but they also benefit from good light, great backgrounds, and a photographer who knows how to read the moment without over-directing.

The Sweet Spot Is the Mix

A full wedding gallery should include all three: candid, posed, and prompted photography.
The posed. The real. The guided.

Together, they tell the full story. You get the mantle photo, the messy-happy moment, and the ones that make you laugh because they feel just like you two.

If that sounds like what you’re looking for, I’d love to hear about your day.
Reach out here to start the conversation.

Kate and Harry’s Orthodox wedding in Greenville SC was a beautiful reminder of what truly meaningful celebrations look like. Originally, they were planning a large wedding with all the bells and whistles. As the plans unfolded, Kate and Harry realized a smaller ceremony with their closest family and friends felt right. And honestly? I LOVE that. It’s something I deeply resonate with—my own wedding story took a similar turn. I know firsthand how special it is to step away from expectations and create a day that feels completely your own.

Kate & Harry celebrated their Orthodox ceremony at St. John of the Ladder Orthodox Church in Greenville, South Carolina. The church sits tucked away in a peaceful corner of town and provides the perfect backdrop for sacred vows. If you’ve never experienced an Orthodox wedding, you will find it’s rich with tradition. Every movement and prayer carries deep spiritual significance. Watching Kate and Harry take part in the crowning ceremony, walk around the altar hand-in-hand, and listen to ancient blessings echo through the sanctuary—it was moving in every way.

Faith, family, and quiet joy filled their entire day as everyone remained fully present. Their loved ones gathered in support, sharing hugs, tears, and stories. After the ceremony, they celebrated with a simple and sweet gathering with a charcuterie.

An Orthodox Weddings in Greenville, SC: Meaningful and True to You

Photographing their day invited me into something sacred. It was a reminder that weddings in Greenville, SC don’t have to be extravagant to be extraordinary. Whether you’re planning an Orthodox wedding in Greenville SC or exchanging vows at a local park, downtown venue, or even a small church like St. John of the Ladder, your day should truly feel like you.

In the end, Kate and Harry’s story shows that there’s incredible beauty in returning to the heart of it all—choosing love, presence, and what truly matters.

When planning a wedding in Greenville, consider whether a smaller celebration truly feels right for you. Let Kate and Harry’s day be your permission slip to do what feels right for you. Your wedding doesn’t have to follow a script. It just needs to tell your story.

Want to see more of Kate & Harry’s story? Check out their Rainy Engagement Session in Falls Park!
Ready for me to capture your day like this? Reach out today: Contact.

As a Greenville Engagement Photographer, I’ve learned to expect the unexpected—especially when it comes to South Carolina weather. For Kate & Harry’s engagement session at Falls Park in downtown Greenville, we had to pivot last minute due to an approaching storm. But what started as a typical overcast session quickly turned into something magical.

We began under a cloudy sky, warming up with some casual walking photos through the park’s winding trails. The flowers were all bloomed, the lighting was dreamy, and Kate & Harry were naturals. We captured candids as they laughed, chatted, and took in the beauty of Falls Park together. Then, just as we reached one of my favorite scenic spots overlooking the falls, the sky opened up.

At first, we dashed for cover under one of the bridges—thankful for the architecture that makes Falls Park so unique. I looked at them and said, “We can wait it out… or we can embrace it.” Without hesitation, Kate & Harry chose to embrace it. And I’m so glad they did.

Cue: full-on Notebook moment. These two ran, danced, kissed, and held each other close in the pouring rain. Their clothes were soaked, their hair dripping—but their joy? That was the real star of the show. The romance, the spontaneity, the willingness to lean into the moment—it was everything an engagement session should be.

Harry looked at the back of my camera and smiled, saying, “These feel like us.” And that’s exactly what you want from an engagement session: photos that don’t just look good but feel honest. Real. Like you.

Being a Greenville Photographer means capturing more than just pretty pictures—it’s about preserving the energy of your story in a place as special as Falls Park. Whether the sun is shining or the skies are opening up, there’s something about this park that makes every session feel iconic.

Kate & Harry’s rainy-day session was one for the books. It reminded me that sometimes, the most unexpected moments turn into the most meaningful ones.

If you’re planning your own engagement session and looking for a Greenville Photographer who’s down for whatever the forecast throws our way—I’m your girl. Let’s make some magic together, rain or shine

Ready to turn your love story into something unforgettable—rain or shine? Let’s plan a session that feels just like you. Reach out today and let’s make some magic in Greenville! Contact

Want more rainly sessions turned dreamy? Check out Kate & Seth’s Engagement Session