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When Bryce and I decided to get married, we didn’t want anything big or formal. We chose something simple, relaxed, and totally us. The Rock Quarry Garden in Greenville was the perfect place for our small, surprise ceremony on January 15, 2017. The weather was a warm and unexpected 76 degrees—pretty amazing for January!

I wore a red off-the-shoulder cocktail dress, a fun and different choice that felt just right. My bouquet was a gift from a friend, which made it even more special. We decided to keep things super low-key by surprising our family and friends the day before and asking everyone to wear black and white. No fuss, no stress—just show up and celebrate with us!

The Rock Quarry Garden turned out to be one of the best small wedding ceremony we could have chosen. The natural beauty of the waterfall, stone paths, and greenery made the perfect backdrop without needing any extra decorations. The setting was cozy and intimate, ideal for a small group, and we found so many great spots for photos.

Tips for Small Wedding Ceremonies

1. Keep it simple. The park’s natural beauty does all the work for you.
2. Have fun with the details. Our black-and-white dress code was easy and looked great.
3. Surprise your guests! We told our family last-minute, which made it even more exciting.
4. Wear what feels right. My red dress wasn’t traditional, but it was perfect for me.
5. Go for an off-season date. January turned out to be warm and sunny, which made the day even better.

In the end, our wedding was laid-back, personal, and everything we wanted—a perfect, no-stress day with the people we love most.

Photographed by: Markie Walden

Want to see more small wedding ceremonies check out Jessica & Paul’s Wedding at Pretty Place Chapel! Ready for me to capture your small ceremony? Head over here to inquire today!

Jessica and Ben’s wedding at Zen in Greenville was nothing short of magical! Zen’s sleek, modern vibe created the perfect setting for their celebration, blending traditions from their Chinese Tea Ceremony and an indoor American ceremony. The space was beautifully dressed with white drapes, while soft pink tablecloths added a romantic touch that flowed effortlessly throughout the day. The Chinese Tea Ceremony was such a heartfelt part of their wedding.

Three Facts About Chinese Tea Ceremonies

• Respect and Gratitude: The couple serves tea to their elders to show deep respect and appreciation. Jessica and Ben knelt before their parents and close family members, symbolizing the uniting of their families.
• Meaningful Ingredients: The tea often includes red dates and lotus seeds. Red dates symbolize good fortune, while lotus seeds represent fertility, wishing the couple happiness and a prosperous future.
• Blessings and Gifts: After serving the tea, the couple typically receives gifts or red envelopes from their elders. These tokens represent blessings and well-wishes for a long, happy marriage.

After the tea ceremony, Jessica and Ben’s American ceremony took place inside Zen’s tranquil space. With minimal decor and soft pink accents, the atmosphere felt cozy and personal. As they exchanged vows, surrounded by their closest loved ones, the love between them was palpable.

Zen’s modern elegance paired with the delicate color palette made this wedding unforgettable. Watching Jessica and Ben blend their families and cultures so seamlessly was something truly special!

Vendors:

Venue | Zen
Food | White Wine and Butter
Planner | Bluebird Events
DJ | Rose Weddings & Events
Rental | Professional Party Rentals
Ceiling Drapes | Optrics
Hair | Mimi Kuang Bridal Artistry

Did you love Jessica & Ben’s Wedding at Zen? You’ll love Jessica & Andrew’s Wedding. Contact me today for more information on wedding photography packages and pricing.

Devyn and Michael’s Hotel Hartness wedding was truly incredible! One of the standout features of their day was their choice of venue. Hotel Hartness perfectly complemented their vision for European flair. Devyn and Michael wanted their wedding to feel like a true escape, and this venue delivered just that!

Their love for blending Southern charm with European flair was reflected in their catering choices. Guests were treated to a unique fusion of upscale Southern dishes alongside Mediterranean dips and sides. The guests loved this combination of flavors. Their signature drinks added another personal touch. Devyn’s lavender lemonade was a refreshing and light choice. Michael chose an Old Fashioned for a sophisticated touch. It was details like these that made their wedding uniquely theirs!

As the evening continued, the celebration moved onto the best party in Hotel Hartness’s elegant ballroom. The atmosphere was filled with love, laughter, and joy. The party was a perfect reflection of Devyn and Michael’s relationship. Friends and family were eager to celebrate this beautiful couple!

It an absolute honor to be a part of this day! From the sweet first look to the fun bubble exit, everything was like a dream. I can’t wait to share more of their Hotel Hartness wedding with you on the blog.

Vendor Team

Venue: Hotel Hartness
Hair/Makeup: Cotton Rouge and Company
DJ: Chris Stevens (PSILoveVibin’)
Flowers: Rachel Deneroy
Dress: Carolina Couture
Planning: Hudson Park
Videographer: Jasmine Dockery

Loved this post? You’ve got to check out another. View Sahar & Morteza’s Wedding in Columbia, SC.
Ready to book me? Head over here to inquire today!

Taylor & Collin’s Vibrant Celebration at Tin Roof Farms

My sister Taylor, married Collin at Tin Roof Farms. It was a day filled with joy, color, and deep meaning. Tin Roof Farms proved to be the perfect setting for their special day, combining the rustic charm of a countryside venue with modern elegance. The spacious grounds and beautifully chapel made it a dream location for their celebration.

Taylor had a clear vision for her wedding: a vibrant mix of colors in the flowers, set against a crisp black-and-white theme for everything else. The venue’s natural beauty enhanced the lively floral arrangements, creating a striking contrast with the black-and-white checkered dance floor. The white bridesmaids’ dresses added to the fresh, clean aesthetic, perfectly complementing the colorful blooms.

One of the unique features of Tin Roof Farms is its versatility. From the spacious indoor areas to the picturesque outdoor settings, every corner of this 75 acres offered a perfect backdrop for the day. The tall trees and lush greenery provided shade and a sense of intimacy, while the open fields allowed for stunning wide-angle shots.

Faith played a central role in Taylor and Collin’s day, beginning with an early morning Bible study that set a reflective and heartfelt tone for the entire day. This meaningful start reminded everyone why we were there, celebrating not just the union of two people but also their shared faith.

Though I had the honor of being Taylor’s maid of honor and couldn’t photograph the wedding myself, I entrusted my talented friend Megan Byrne with capturing the day. It was a joy to edit the images, reliving each moment of my sister’s beautiful wedding at Tin Roof Farms.

Vendor Team

Venue: Tin Roof Farms

Photographed By: Megan Byrne Photo

Images Edited by: Kayla Susie Photography

Hair and Makeup: Hair By Natalie

Florals: Bee Designs

Wedding Dress: Ava Laurene Bride

Party Dress: Off The Market Dress

Suits: Men’s Warehouse

Stationary: Hudson Park Paper Co.

Cake: Publix Bakery

DJ: Chris Hart Music Services

Bridesmaids Dresses: Garden Midi Dress

Want to her even more about Taylor and Collin’s wedding? Check out how this blog, Telling Your Love Story

Looking for your wedding photographer, reach out now!

Sahar and Morteza’s love story is a testament to the power of patience and perseverance. With Sahar in Iran and Morteza in the USA, their relationship thrived despite the distance, and it was so sweet when they finally had the chance to say “I do” in a ceremony that was as warm as their love for each other—literally! The day was unseasonably warm for January, with a beautiful 73 degrees. I am so excited to share more of this wedding in Columbia, SC with you on the blog today.

Top Columbia, SC Wedding Venues

Columbia, SC, is an ideal destination for your wedding, blending Southern charm with vibrant city life. The capital city offers a rich history, scenic outdoor spaces, and a variety of unique venues that cater to different wedding styles.

Here are four top wedding venues in Columbia, SC to check out:

1. 701 Whaley
   This historic venue is a popular choice for couples looking for a blend of urban charm and vintage elegance. With its exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and versatile spaces, 701 Whaley can be customized to fit various wedding styles.
2. The Lace House
   Located in the Governor’s Mansion Complex, The Lace House is a stunning venue with Southern charm. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, this historic home offers elegant indoor spaces and picturesque outdoor areas, perfect for a romantic wedding.
3. The River Road and Jasmine Houses and Gardens
   This venue is ideal for couples seeking a lush, garden setting. The Jasmine House, with its classic Southern architecture, and the surrounding gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for both ceremonies and receptions.
4. The Hall at Senate’s End
   This venue offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. Located near the Congaree River, The Hall at Senate’s End has beautiful indoor spaces with exposed brick and large windows, as well as outdoor gardens, making it a versatile choice for weddings of any size.

With its warm hospitality and endless charm, Columbia, SC, is the perfect place to say “I do.”

Hair & Makeup: Southern Couture

If you enjoyed this post, you will also love Andrew & Lauren’s Wedding at Larkins Sawmill.

Ready to book me as your wedding photographer? Say no more!

Andrew and Lauren’s wedding at Larkins Sawmill was nothing short of magical! This charming venue in the heart of Greenville is one of my favorites. Larkins Sawmill provided the perfect backdrop for Lauren and Andrew’s winter-themed celebration. I love the exposed brick walls and beautiful wooden beams in the reception space. The features of this venue create a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere that matched their vision perfectly.

The day began with an emotional first look between Lauren and her father. We were all a bit teary eyed as we watched the moment unfold. Before walking down the aisle, Lauren’s father prayed over the couple at the altar. Lauren and Andrew really prioritized the deep spiritual significance of their ceremony. You could just feel the excitement between these two as they said “I do.”

At the reception, Andrew and Lauren surprised their guests with a choreographed first dance that was simple and beautiful. The highlight of the evening was the “We Are Family” song, where both sides of their families danced together. They truly understood the meaning of “two becoming one.”

As the night continued, guests enjoyed an amazing buffet dinner. Lauren and Andrew also wanted to do a photo dance and generation dance. I love capturing little traditions like this that make a reception that much more special!

From the heartfelt prayers to the choreographed dances, every moment was of Lauren and Andrew’s wedding day was perfect! I’m so excited to share more with you on the blog today.

Vendor Team

Venue: St Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and Larkins Sawmill

Hair and Makeup: Cotton Rouge

Dress: House of the Bride, Augusta GA

Flowers: Sandra Bagwell

DJ: Ron Barredo

Loved this wedding at Larkins Sawmill? You’ll also enjoy scrolling through Emily & Stocks Wedding at Southern Bleachery.

Looking for your wedding photographer? I’m here!