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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 and Seth’s wedding at Duncan Estate was a picture of elegance and romance. From the vintage gold accents to the graceful details, every moment reflected their love story.

Duncan Estate provided the perfect setting for their celebration. The historic home and lush gardens added charm to their romantic theme. Katie envisioned a wedding filled with grace, class, and timeless beauty. Every detail, from the soft floral arrangements to the golden decor, brought her vision to life.

A Heartfelt Ceremony & Romantic Reception

The ceremony was heartfelt and intimate. As Katie walked down the aisle, Seth’s eyes filled with emotion. Their vows reflected their deep love and commitment. After exchanging rings, they shared their first kiss as husband and wife. The moment was pure magic.

The reception continued the romantic theme. Soft candlelight and golden accents created an inviting atmosphere. Katie and Seth’s first dance was a highlight, a moment filled with love and joy. Family and friends cheered as they swayed to their chosen song. Laughter and heartfelt speeches filled the evening. Loved ones shared stories about the couple’s journey, making the night even more meaningful.

Guests enjoyed a delicious meal featuring steak, greens, and potatoes. A fresh side salad and warm rolls completed the dinner. For the toast, a stunning champagne wall added a touch of sophistication. While no other alcohol was served, the celebration remained joyful and full of love.

A Perfect Ending to a Beautiful Day

Duncan Estate was the perfect venue for their dream wedding. Its timeless charm complemented their vintage theme beautifully. Katie and Seth’s love story unfolded in a setting that felt both magical and intimate.

As the night ended, the couple left hand in hand, ready to begin their new chapter. Their wedding at Duncan Estate was not just a celebration but a reflection of their love—full of elegance, grace, and endless joy.

Venue: Duncan Estate

Coordinator: AudioGrafs

Florals: Duncan Estate

Catering: Duncan Estate

Hair & Makeup: Gracey Dorn

Dress: Dressing Room South

DJ: AudioGrafs

Want to see more of Katie & Seth? Check out their engagement session!

Ready for me to capture your day like this? Contact me 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!

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How to Build Your Wedding Inspiration Board (Without Overthinking It!)

If you’re planning a wedding, you’ve probably found yourself scrolling through Pinterest, Instagram, or wedding blogs, saving tons of photos—but maybe you’re not sure how it all comes together. That’s totally normal! In a recent podcast interview, I chatted with Renee Burroughs of Renee Burroughs Design, an incredible wedding florist, and she shared a simple but genius tip:

“Save any photo that makes you pause!“

Even if you don’t know exactly why you like it, save it anyway. Over time, you’ll start to notice patterns in your choices, and those little details will help shape your wedding vision. So, how do you do this without feeling overwhelmed?

1. Pin first, analyze later

Don’t stress about making everything match right away. Just start saving images that speak to you—whether it’s a dreamy ceremony setup, a stunning bouquet, or even a beautiful tablescape. The key is to go with your gut.

2. Look beyond wedding photos

Your wedding style isn’t just about wedding images. If you love the cozy feel of a candlelit dinner or the sleek aesthetic of a modern hotel, save those too. These details can inspire your venue, decor, and even your photography style.

3. Find the common threads

After a while, take a step back and look at everything you’ve saved. Do you see a trend? Maybe you’re drawn to soft, romantic florals, or perhaps dramatic, moody lighting. These patterns are your style shining through.

4. Refine your board

Once you’ve gathered enough inspiration, go through and remove anything that doesn’t truly excite you. This helps you get a clearer picture of what you actually love.

5. Share with your vendors

A well-curated inspiration board helps your planner, florist, and photographer understand your vision so they can bring it to life.

So go ahead—start saving, dreaming, and let the magic unfold.

Recent wedding with Renee Burroughs Designs at Judson Mill.

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

As a Greenville, SC wedding photographer, I get to witness and capture some of life’s most beautiful moments. Recently, I sat down for a self-interview on my podcast, First Look, to share more about my journey, my passion for weddings, and advice for engaged couples. Here’s a little peek into my conversation with myself!

Tell Us About Yourself. How Did You Get Started?

I started out as a “mom with a camera” in 2019 and started taking photos for friends. My journey into wedding photography started with a deep love for fairytale moments and a genuine love for capturing heartfelt moments. Over the years, I’ve learned that weddings are about more than just photos—they’re about emotions, connection, and memories that last a lifetime.

What Do You Do?

I photograph weddings, but really, I do so much more on a wedding day. From the moment you get your hair done to slipping into your dress and having your first look—I’m there. I bring a sense of calm and help keep the day flowing smoothly. I joke that I’m a professional dress fluffier, but I’m also the person you can vent to and the one who clears the room when you need a moment. My goal is to be a steady presence, making sure you feel relaxed and fully present on your big day.

Who Do You Serve?

I serve couples in Greenville, Charleston, and beyond. My couples are joyful, deeply in love, and excited to celebrate their story in a way that reflects who they are. Some dream of an intimate ceremonies, while others plan a grand celebration surrounded by all their family and friends. No matter the scale, they all value timeless photography that captures both the big moments and the little in-between ones. I love working with couples who cherish candid moments, meaningful details, and the people who have shaped their journey.

Why Do You Love Weddings?

Oh, everything! Wedding days have a magic that no other event does. I love the excitement, the happy jitters, and the pure joy of two people committing their lives to each other. Seeing couples excited to marry their best friend never gets old. It’s an honor to capture those moments.
I also love getting to see people, see themselves from my perspective! Flipping the camera around so they can see why I’m squealing “AHHH you look beautiful!” couple make my heart explode!

One Piece of Advice for Engaged Couples

Spend as much time together as possible on your wedding day! If you’re having a first look, plan to stay together until the ceremony. If not, carve out time for a private dinner or a quiet moment alone. During the reception, don’t wander off too much—soak in every second together. The day flies by, and these moments will be the ones you cherish forever.

I hope this gives you a little insight into who I am and why I love what I do. If you’re planning a wedding in Greenville, SC, or beyond, I’d love to hear your love story and help capture every unforgettable moment! Contact me today to chat about your wedding photography needs! Contact

Are you looking for a Greenville, SC wedding photographer? I’d love to hear your love story and help capture every unforgettable moment! Contact me today to chat about your wedding photography needs!

Want to take a First Look at more amazing vendors? Check out the Podcast!