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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

Pretty Place Chapel, has breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and is a dream ceremony location. The number one quesiton I get from coupes is, “What wedding venues are near Pretty Place Chapel?” Here are a few options in Greenville within an hour’s drive!

1. Hotel Domestique – 16 miles, approximately 30 Minutes from Pretty Place Chapel

Located in Travelers Rest, SC, Hotel Domestique blends European elegance with mountain views. This boutique hotel is ideal for couples seeking a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere. Guests can enjoy luxury accommodations, farm-to-table cuisine, and picturesque grounds. It’s a short drive from Pretty Place, making it a convenient and chic option for your reception.

2. The Rutherford – 31 miles, approximately 50 minutes from Pretty Place Chapel

Nestled in the heart of Greenville, The Rutherford blends industrial charm with modern sophistication. With customizable indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s perfect for couples seeking a contemporary yet timeless setting. Its proximity to Pretty Place and downtown Greenville ensures convenience for you and your guests.

3. The Schoolhouse Venue 25 miles, approximately 50 minutes from Pretty Place

Located in Taylors, SC, The Schoolhouse Venue is a charming and historic venue. It blends vintage elegance with modern amenities, offering beautifully restored interiors and spacious outdoor areas. This venue is ideal for couples wanting a timeless and sophisticated setting. Its proximity to Pretty Place makes it a convenient option for your celebration.

4. The Westin Poinsett 35 miles, approximately 1 hour from Pretty Place

Located in the heart of downtown Greenville, The Westin Poinsett offers historic charm and luxurious ballrooms. It’s a wonderful choice for couples wanting a classic and elegant setting. Your guests can also explore Greenville’s vibrant downtown, filled with restaurants and attractions, making their experience unforgettable.

These venues provide a variety of styles and amenities to suit your wedding vision. Whether you’re drawn to mountain views, modern aesthetics, or serene settings, you’ll find the perfect location. With these options, your day will be as unforgettable as the view from the altar!

Want to see more of these Wedding Venues Near Pretty Place? Check out:

Hotel Domestique, The Rutherford, The School House Venue, The Westin

Want some more sound wedding advice? Check out my podcast: First Look.

I have some exciting news to share! I’m launching a podcast called First Look, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it. This project has been a dream of mine for a while now, and it’s finally happening!

First Look is all about taking a metaphorical “first look” at Greenville wedding vendors! Specifically focusing on the incredible wedding vendors in Greenville, SC. Each episode, I’ll sit down with a different vendor to learn more about their journey and passion for serving couples on their big day.

We’ll ask them four simple but insightful questions:

1. Who are you?
2. What do you do?
3. Why do you love serving couples on their wedding day?
4. Give one piece of advice for couples who are engaged.

Living here in Greenville, SC, I’ve had the privilege of working with so many talented vendors through my photography. Now, I’m excited to share their stories and wisdom with you. Whether you’re planning a wedding or just love hearing about the magic behind the scenes, this podcast will offer a unique perspective.

Why First Look? Because finding vendors you like, know and trust shouldn’t be hard! I know the importance of a strong team on a wedding day and this podcast will celebrate the dedication and heart these vendors bring to every wedding.

I’ll be launching the first episode next month, and I’d love for you to tune in. You can expect local stories from right here in Greenville, filled with insights and advice from the best in the business. It’s a little slice of life, served with a side of southern charm. 

There will be bonus episodes where I interview married couples! So they can share what they believe made their wedding picture perfect!

So, mark your calendars, and get ready for First Look. I can’t wait to share all the amazing vendors with you. Let’s take a first look together.

Stay tuned for more updates!

Want to be updated when a new episode launches? Sign up here: First Look Podcast!