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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.

The wedding morning sets the tone for the entire day. It’s a time filled with excitement, nerves, and anticipation. As a wedding photographer, I’ve seen how a little preparation makes all the difference. The right items can keep you calm, organized, and fully present. Here are my top five essentials you should have for a for stress-free getting-ready Photos!

The 5 Tips For Stress-Free Getting Ready Photos

1. A Thoughtful Getting-Ready Space

Your wedding morning photos start with your surroundings. Choose a space with good natural light and minimal clutter. A clean, bright room helps your wedding photographer capture timeless images. Think about the backdrop—neutral tones and tidy details make your portraits shine. Bonus: you’ll feel more relaxed in a beautiful environment.

2. All Your Wedding Details in One Place

Gather your invitation suite, rings, jewelry, perfume, and any heirlooms in advance. Place them in a small box or bag for easy access. Having everything together saves stress and ensures your photographer can style them beautifully. These detail shots tell part of your story and add depth to your gallery.

3. Comfortable Getting-Ready Attire

You’ll want to look good before slipping into your dress. Choose a robe, matching pajama set, or something cozy. Avoid tight necklines so you don’t mess up your hair and makeup later. Comfortable outfits also create fun, cohesive photos of you and your bridal party during prep.

4. A Timeline That Builds in Buffer Time

The morning often runs behind schedule without a little extra padding. Share a timeline with your hair stylist, makeup artist, and photographer. Add at least 20 minutes of buffer time before your ceremony. This keeps the morning calm and allows space for unexpected delays. A relaxed couple photographs much better than a rushed one.

5. Snacks and Hydration

With all the excitement, it’s easy to forget food and water. Keep snacks, fruit, and water bottles nearby. A balanced snack can keep your energy steady before the ceremony. No one wants a growling stomach during vows—or fainting mid-portrait session. Your wedding photographer will thank you for staying hydrated and energized.

Ready for some more advice on how to have a stress-free getting-ready photos? Check out this interview with Katie Cotton from Cotton Rouge & Co.

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 planning a wedding, there are a few big decisions that can feel overwhelming—venue, dress, guest list—and somewhere in that mix is the photographer who will document it all. One of the most common questions I hear from couples is: “How much should we spend on a wedding photographer?” With the cost of wedding photography in Greenville, SC ranging anywhere from $1,000 to over $7,000, understanding what you’re paying for—and the value behind those numbers—can make a big difference in your planning.

If you’ve started your search in Greenville, SC, you’ve likely noticed that prices are all over the place. From photographers offering full-day coverage for $1,000 to others charging five times that amount, the range can be confusing. So, let’s break it down. What exactly are you paying for—and why does it matter?

Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury Wedding Photographers: What’s the Difference?

Budget Photographers ($500–$2,000)

Photographers in this price range are often just starting out or offer limited coverage and services. You might find someone talented who’s building their portfolio, but it usually comes with trade-offs—like minimal editing, fewer backups for gear and files, and little to no guidance during the planning process.

Budget photographers may not include engagement sessions, printed products, or an in-depth timeline consultation. If you’re on a strict budget and photography isn’t a top priority, this route can work. However, it’s important to weigh the cost of a wedding photographer in this range against the potential risks and limitations.

Mid-Range Photographers ($2,500–$4,500)

This is where many experienced photographers in Greenville fall. You’ll get reliable quality, consistent editing, and likely an engagement session or second shooter included. These photographers have been around for a few years, have invested in professional gear, and can guide you through your timeline to make sure you’re capturing key moments without stress.

At this level, you’re paying for not just beautiful photos, but also for someone who knows how to manage a wedding day, anticipate emotional moments, and create a seamless experience from booking to gallery delivery.

Luxury Photographers ($5,000–$10,000+)

Luxury photographers offer a boutique, full-service experience. Their work may be nationally published, and they often limit the number of weddings they take each year so they can give each couple personalized attention. You’ll see custom-designed albums, curated galleries, heirloom products, and intentional storytelling that feels like a fine art collection of your wedding day.

You’re also paying for expert-level problem-solving, high-end gear and editing tools, and a professional who can make any location look like a dream—even if it rains, the timeline shifts, or the light disappears.

The Average Cost of Wedding Photographer in Greenville, SC

In Greenville, most couples spend between $3,000 and $5,000 on their wedding photographer. That range typically includes 6–8 hours of coverage, an engagement session, and digital images. If you’re planning a full-day celebration or looking for a photographer who offers albums, second shooters, or travel for your mountain or coastal wedding, you’ll likely be in the upper end—or slightly beyond—this average.

Why I Might Be a Slightly More Expensive Option—And Why That Matters

I’m not the cheapest photographer in Greenville. But I offer so much more than “showing up and taking photos.” From our first call to final gallery delivery, I’m deeply invested in your story. I walk you through planning, create a detailed custom timeline, help you prepare for your engagement session, and make sure your day feels peaceful and fun—not posed and stiff.

I know how to work quickly when time runs short, how to find great light even in dark venues, and how to make people feel comfortable in front of the camera. I’ve photographed over 130 weddings in Greenville and beyond, and I bring that experience to every couple I work with.

Over the years, I’ve invested countless hours and resources into continuing education—mentorships, workshops, business coaching, and mastering the craft of storytelling through photography. That education doesn’t just live in my head—it shows up in how I handle unexpected weather, tricky timelines, high-pressure moments, and emotional family dynamics. It means you can trust me to lead with confidence and care so you can stay fully present on your wedding day.

My experience and education aren’t just credentials—they’re the foundation of a wedding experience that feels smooth, thoughtful, and full of heart.

I also believe your images deserve more than to live on a hard drive. That’s why I offer keepsake albums, curated image selections, and guidance on how to print and preserve your photos for generations.

What Affects the Cost of Wedding Photography?

It’s not just about the number of hours you’re booking. The cost of a wedding photographer is shaped by a combination of factors, including:

• Coverage Hours – More hours usually means a higher price, but also ensures full-day coverage: from getting ready to the last dance.
• Number of Photographers – Having a second shooter often adds to the cost but allows for more comprehensive coverage and multiple angles, especially during key moments like the ceremony and reception.
• Travel & Location – If you’re getting married in the mountains or at a remote venue, travel fees and extra logistics might be included.
• Albums & Prints – Some photographers offer digital-only packages, while others include heirloom albums, print credits, or even wall art options.
• Experience & Expertise – A photographer who’s spent years refining their craft, investing in education, and working in high-pressure environments brings a different level of service and artistry.

When you consider everything that goes into wedding photography—equipment, editing time, business overhead, insurance, and continued education—the price starts to reflect the full value of the service, not just the hours on the wedding day.

The Bottom Line

Your wedding photographs will be one of the few things that remain long after the flowers fade and the cake is eaten. Whether you choose a budget photographer, a mid-range pro, or someone in the luxury space, the cost of a wedding photographer should reflect the value they bring to your day. Make sure you choose someone whose work moves you—and who makes you feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

If that sounds like something you’re looking for, I’d love to chat.

Let’s make something beautiful together.

Want more information on wedding costs? Check out this episode of First Look Podcast: Renee Burroughs Designs

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.