Blog | Mezzaninehttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/2024-03-29T09:51:44+00:00BlogA Preview of Katherine and Sam's Legare Waring House Wedding in Black and White2021-01-07T12:12:57+00:002024-03-29T07:14:35+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/a-preview-of-katherine-and-sams-legare-waring-house-wedding-in-black-and-white/<h2>A Preview of Katherine and Sam's Wedding Photography Documentary</h2>
<p>Katherine and Sam were married at Charleston wedding venue, Legare Waring House in October of 2020. They were joyful, and endlessly expressive and I cannot thank them enough for the contagious happiness that I got to witness and document during their Charleston SC wedding. This is a documentary preview, all in black and white, of their fall Charleston wedding. This is a wedding documentary focusing on the moments that really matter. </p>
<p><img alt="black and white wedding reception with bride laughing at charleston sc wedding reception legare waring house" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katherine-sam-legare/2010-katherine-sam-legare-waring-fall-charleston-wedding-film-00876_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Congratulations Katherine and Sam</p>
<p><img alt="blurry black and white image of bride and groom walking at charleston sc wedding at legare waring house" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katherine-sam-legare/2010-katherine-sam-legare-waring-fall-charleston-wedding-film-00624_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the wedding photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your wedding and tell your unique story with an artful eye. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Destination Wedding and Elopement Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Fall Wedding on Film at Legare Waring House in Charleston SC2021-01-07T11:41:35+00:002024-03-29T09:51:44+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-wedding-on-film-at-legare-waring-house-in-charleston-sc/<h2>Katherine and Sam's Fall Wedding at Charleston Wedding Venue Legare Waring House</h2>
<p>Katherine and Sam's wedding was one of the most joyous I have ever photographed in my short years as a Charleston wedding photographer. They chose Legare Waring House as their wedding venue, for it's lush greenery, stunning row of oaks, and it's ability to host everything in one location. The day was busy, but I found myself lost in the excitement and contagious joy of it all. Portraits were effortless, continuing well past sunset, and documenting was joyful reflecting the joy and true love shared by the couple. </p>
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<p><img alt="wedding portrait at legare waring house in charleston sc on kodak portra 800 film with blooming flowers on oak trees" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katherine-sam-legare/2010-katherine-sam-legare-waring-fall-charleston-wedding-film-00518_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Charleston Wedding Vendors</h3>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.charlestonweddingsbyallison.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.charlestonweddingsbyallison.com/">Charleston Weddings by Allison</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.instagram.com/chasweddingsbyallison/" target="_blank" title="www.instagram.com/chasweddingsbyallison/">www.instagram.com/chasweddingsbyallison/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://palmettobloom.com/" target="_blank" title="https://palmettobloom.com/">Palmetto Bloom</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.instagram.com/PalmettoBloomJKL/" target="_blank" title="www.instagram.com/PalmettoBloomJKL/">www.instagram.com/PalmettoBloomJKL/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://southcarolinaparks.com/legare-waring-house/event-space" target="_blank" title="https://southcarolinaparks.com/legare-waring-house/event-space">Legare Waring House</a> </span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.instagram.com/legare_waring_house/" target="_blank" title="www.instagram.com/legare_waring_house/">www.instagram.com/legare_waring_house/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.slatehairandmakeup.com/about" target="_blank" title="https://www.slatehairandmakeup.com/about">Slate Hair and Makeup</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/slatehairandmakeup/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/slatehairandmakeup/">https://www.instagram.com/slatehairandmakeup/</a></span></p>
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<p>Band: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.thevistasband.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.thevistasband.com/">The Vistas</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.instagram.com/thevistasband/" target="_blank" title="www.instagram.com/thevistasband/">www.instagram.com/thevistasband/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.snyderevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.snyderevents.com/">Snyder Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/" target="_blank" title="www.instagram.com/snyderevents/">www.instagram.com/snyderevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Transportation: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.scsedan.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.scsedan.com/">SC Express</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.instagram.com/scexpresscharleston/" target="_blank" title="www.instagram.com/scexpresscharleston/">www.instagram.com/scexpresscharleston/</a></span></p>
<p>Bar: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.charlestonbarservice.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.charlestonbarservice.com/">Brand Bars</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.instagram.com/brandbarsandevents/" target="_blank" title="www.instagram.com/brandbarsandevents/">www.instagram.com/brandbarsandevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Catering: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.bennetthospitality.com/good-food-catering/" target="_blank" title="https://www.bennetthospitality.com/good-food-catering/">Good Food Catering</a></span></p>
<h3>How Would I Describe my Charleston Wedding Photography Style</h3>
<p>My style is a bit unique for the Charleston wedding market in that I try to photograph weddings with a bit more realism and grit. I think it makes the story more authentic. I'm less worried about creating a fairty tale depiction of a wedding, but more so with documenting the actual event in the most artistic and compelling way possible. My style is a mix of dramatic film portraiture and spontaneous, joyful and haphazard wedding day documentary. I made a commitment to myself this year, starting largely with this wedding, to push myself as a documentary wedding photographer. I started carrying along a dedicated camera for documentary, shooting all in black and white. The result was what I think is my most thorough and compelling job documenting and creating art at a wedding yet!</p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/a-preview-of-katherine-and-sams-legare-waring-house-wedding-in-black-and-white/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/a-preview-of-katherine-and-sams-legare-waring-house-wedding-in-black-and-white/">HERE</a></span> is a link to the all black and white documentary preview I delivered to the couple. </p>
<p><img alt="bride laughing during wedding reception in black and white photograph at legare waring charleston sc venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katherine-sam-legare/2010-katherine-sam-legare-waring-fall-charleston-wedding-film-00876_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me as Your Charleston Film Wedding Photographer</h2>
<p>You won't find another film wedding photographer, destination or in my hometown of Charleston SC that challenges himself more or pushes his creativity further than I do. I have an appreciation for the timeless and the classic, but strongly believe the great art is the most timeless of all and echo that in the amount of experimentation I do in my work as a destination wedding and portrait photographer. Humbly speaking, I'm the hardest working wedding photographer you'll meet. I have a style that transcends Charleston, SC and have received nationwide recognition for my film work because of it. Ask yourself if you want your wedding photos to look like every one elses, perfect curated perfection, or if you want an artful story to be told. If the latter has your heart, then it's likely that you'll have mine. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc wedding couple in black and white at legare waring house wedding with bride laughing while dancing" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katherine-sam-legare/2010-katherine-sam-legare-waring-fall-charleston-wedding-film-00640_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me for your Legare Waring House Wedding in Charleston South Carolina</h2>
<p>Legare Waring House is one of my favorite Charleston wedding venues...for so many reasons. I love that it is all self contained. Bride and bridesmaids and groom and groomsmen can all get ready onsite. Ceremony and reception are both held on the grounds, and their are plenty of beautiful locations to choose from for each. Having everything all in one location means you can take your time. A typical wedding timeline, for a photographer, is 8-10 hours. Think about how much extra relaxation can be squeezed in when you aren't spending 45 minutes of your day traveling between locations. Legare Waring has so many beautiful locations for portraits. This is why it is a top South Carolina wedding venue for me. I love to explore when I do wedding day portraits and the vast grounds of the venue are perfect for that. It also has some of the best oak trees and spanish moss in the lowcountry!</p>
<p><img alt="bridesmaids at charleston sc wedding venue legare waring captured on kodak portra 800 film with a contax 645" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katherine-sam-legare/2010-katherine-sam-legare-waring-fall-charleston-wedding-film-00200_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial, lifestyle and portrait photography. I operate a photography studio in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad. LGBTQ supporter and firm believer in the cause for all races to fight for equal rights. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Film Wedding and Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Charleston SC Elopement at the Hotel Bennett and a Private Mount Pleasant Home2020-11-22T12:39:02+00:002024-03-29T05:15:03+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/charleston-sc-elopement-at-the-hotel-bennett-and-a-private-mount-pleasant-home/<h2>About the Charleston Intimate Wedding by Elopement Photographer Brian D Smith</h2>
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<p>Carson and Mike hired me a year prior to their wedding date. They had the full wedding planned with a big venue and all the trimmings. What they, and none of us, anticipated was getting married during a pandemic. With grace and good spirits they changed their wedding plans, downsized the entire event and had a wonderful time eloping in the beauty that is May for a Charleston SC wedding. </p>
<p><img alt="35mm film portrait of bride and groom in front of charleston sc wedding venue hotel bennett" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00067_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>About the Venue and Intimate Wedding Locations</h3>
<p>Carson and mike got ready at the Hotel Bennett, right in the heart of downtown Charleston's' bustling upper king street district. We had a first look right out in front of the hotel, photographed the bridal party, did a quick stroll around downtown for some portraits before the rain set in then went to a private, waterfront home in Mt Pleasant for the elopement ceremony and reception. </p>
<p><img alt="35mm film portrait in downtown charleston at hotel bennett elopement by film wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00084_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Why You Should Elope in Charleston South Carolina and Why a Downsized Wedding is Just as Special</h3>
<p>I'm so grateful for my 2020 couples that took the pandemic in stride, embraced the changes to their Covid effected Charleston wedding and decided to switch things up with grace and style and have a small elopement or intimate wedding. I photographed quite a few elopements this year and one thing that rang true was that there was no special feeling or magic lost in a smaller wedding. In fact, at times, they felt more special and more rooted in what is really important on a wedding day...the couple, their love, and those closest to them who have witnessed that love grow. So, if you are thinking about changing up your wedding plans, cancelling, or postponing, please give me a call and ask me why elopements are so special in the Holy City. An elopement can be anything and I think that is the beauty of it. You can make it a small wedding or something entirely non-traditional and as long as you are happy the moments and wedding photographs will be beautiful. </p>
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<h2>Why I Shoot Film as a Charleston Wedding and Elopement Photographer</h2>
<p>Film is special. It's special to me for many reasons, but at the end of the day what is most important is the impact the image makes. All of the special reasons that I love film, shooting it, feeling it, waiting for it to return from the lab, coelesce into a beautiful image that makes a statement on me the second I view them for the first time. I shoot medium format and 35mm film, mostly kodak. I prefer to let the character of the images do the talking, so if you have any questions about film wedding photography, please just ask! It's one of my favorite things to talk about. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal portrait in charleston sc at golden hour on 35mm kodak portra 400 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00101_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="mt pleasant charleston wedding couple eloping on the water shot on kodak portra 800 medium format film with hasselblad 202fa and 110mm F2 lens" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00243_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="dreamy portrait of a charleston sc bride in front of hotel bennett on 35mm kodak portra 400 film shot with canon eos 1v" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00075_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc elopement couple first look by film wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00017_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Why You Should Hire Me as Your Charleston Film Wedding Photographer</h2>
<p>You won't find another photographer, destination or in my hometown of Charleston SC that challenges himself more or pushes his creativity further than I do. I have an appreciation for the timeless and the classic, but strongly believe the great art is the most timeless of all and echo that in the amount of experimentation I do in my work as a destination wedding and portrait photographer. Humbly speaking, I'm the hardest working wedding photographer you'll meet. I have a style that transcends Charleston, SC and have received nationwide recognition for my film work because of it. Ask yourself if you want your wedding photos to look like every one elses, perfect curated perfection, or if you want an artful story to be told. If the latter has your heart, then it's likely that you'll have mine. </p>
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<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial, lifestyle and portrait photography. I operate a photography studio in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad. LGBTQ supporter and firm believer in the cause for all races to fight for equal rights. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Film Wedding and Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Film Bridal Portraits and a Claire Pettibone Gown in an Outdoor Portrait Studio2020-11-11T10:50:36+00:002024-03-29T04:59:14+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/film-bridal-portraits-and-a-claire-pettibone-gown-in-an-outdoor-portrait-studio/<h2>About the Whimsical Film Bridal Portraits at Charleston's Studio Sixty Reid</h2>
<p>This was my second time constructing an outdoor studio at the old location of my Charleston portrait photography studio - Studio Sixty Reid. This go around, I wanted to do something bridal, shoot it all on film, and use this whimsical <a href="https://clairepettibone.com/products/marie-gown" target="_blank" title="https://clairepettibone.com/products/marie-gown">Victorian wedding gown (Marie) from Claire Pettibone</a>. Kyleigh modeled the gown with grace and the whimsical, fashion forward flair that is a staple of my <a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/#studio-bridal-portraits" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/#studio-bridal-portraits">studio bridal portraiture</a>. </p>
<p><img alt="35mm film double exposure on kodak gold 200 of charleston bride in outdoor studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-kyleigh-double-exposure-35mm-film-roll-charleston-bridal-claire-pettibone-00006_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Photographing Portraits in an Outdoor Studio</h3>
<p>The oudoor studio is a pretty simple concept, and simple in construction. The idea came to me for an outdoor backdrop that belnds into the surrounding foliage, all the while still looking slightly out of place as an entity in nature. The studio is erected from a simple set of backdrop stands and a Savage Universal dark grey muslin cloth backdrop on the ground and some linen curtains I found at Ikea in the spare parts bin. That's it!</p>
<p><img alt="contax 645 film portrait of a bride in an outdoor portrait studio in charleston sc on kodak portra 800" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-south-carolina-wedding-photography-00008_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Equipment, Cameras and Film Stocks Used </h3>
<p>I shot the entire series on film using a few cameras. For 35mm, I used my trusty Nikon Fm3a loaded with my favorite color 35mm stock, Kodak Gold 200. For medium format, I shot 1 roll of Kodak Portra 800, my favorite medium format color stock, through my Contax 645 (<a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/contax-645-medium-format-film-camera-review-for-weddings-and-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/contax-645-medium-format-film-camera-review-for-weddings-and-portraits/">review here</a>). I also shot a roll of Kodak T-Max 400 120 film through my Hasselblad 202FA and FE 110mm F2 (<a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-202fa-film-camera-review-for-portraits-and-weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-202fa-film-camera-review-for-portraits-and-weddings/">Review of both here</a>). </p>
<p>Hasselblad 202FA + T-Max 400</p>
<p><img alt="kodak t-max 400 black and white 120 film portrait of charleston bride in outdoor portrait studio in victorian wedding dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-south-carolina-wedding-photography-00018_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Nikon Fm3a and Kodak Gold 200</p>
<p><img alt="bridal portrait by film wedding photographer brian d smith in charleston sc on kodak gold 200 35mm" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-south-carolina-wedding-photography-00039_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Contax 645 + Kodak Portra 800</p>
<p><img alt="studio bridal portrait with victorian dress on kodak portra 800 120 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-south-carolina-wedding-photography-00007_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I even shot some large format film and developed and scanned it myself. The result was my favorite bridal portrait EVER! Intrepid Mkiii 4x5 and Schneider 210mm F5.6</p>
<p><img alt="large format film bridal portrait with intrepid mkiii black and white film photo of bride in charleston sc" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-kyleigh-charleston-sc-backyard-studio-bridal-large-format-tri-x-film-00005_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>35mm Film Double Exposure Bridal Portraits </h2>
<p>One of my favorite personal experiments in film is shooting a roll of film twice (<a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-twice-exposed-roll-of-35mm-film/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-twice-exposed-roll-of-35mm-film/">How To Here</a>). The process requires me to shoot through a roll of 35mm film once, this time with the subject being clouds and sky, then I wind it up, reload it and shoot through it again with portraiture. The results this time were absolutely fantastic and resulted in, again, one of my favorite bridal portraits ever (see top image). I initially shot through the film roll in my Nikon fm2n then the second go around in the nikon fm3a. The film used was kodak gold 200. </p>
<p><img alt="double exposure on 35mm kodak gold 200 film of bride and clouds in charleston sc photography studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-kyleigh-double-exposure-35mm-film-roll-charleston-bridal-claire-pettibone-00013_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="double exposure film bridal portrait on 35mm kodak gold 200 of charleston bride close up on red lipstick" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-kyleigh-double-exposure-35mm-film-roll-charleston-bridal-claire-pettibone-00011_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Portrait Photography Studio Locations - Studio Sixty Reid</h2>
<h3>Charleston SC Photography Studio</h3>
<p>I own and operate a portrait photography studio in Charleston, SC. Charleston South Carolina is the birthplace of my photography business and where I discovered and refined my love for studio portraiture. Studio Sixty Reid, named after a location where I created some of my favorite early portrait work, is a natural light and flash photography portrait studio right in the heart of Downtown Charleston. The studio is in a prime location, just a short walk from bustling king street and features solid color seamless backdrops, clean white walls, a mid century styled section for lifestyle photography shoots and enough space to create custom sets for your portrait and editorial photography projects. </p>
<h3>Northern Michigan Photography Studio - Traverse City</h3>
<p>I spend most of my Summer in Northern Michigan, 45 minutes south of Traverse City. I run an in home studio, under the same name of Studio Sixty Reid, in my lakefront family cottage. The studio features natural light and flash photography capabilities and has beautiful lake front views in the small town of Bear Lake Michigan. My Bear Lake studio is where I first set up a portrait studio, and first developed my love for flash photography and shooting film with strobes. </p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Film Wedding Photographer and Studio Portrait Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/">Brian D Smith Photography Studio Portrait Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the portrait photography studio services I offer. I have poratrait studio locations in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and tell your story through intentional and creative portraiture. I photograph Branding Portraits, Bridal and Wedding Portraits, Heirloom Portraits, Boudoir, and Creative / Editorial Portraiture and Fashion in studio. I celebrate all people, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Studio Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Findley And Robert's Pawley's Island Wedding Story in Black and White2020-10-06T10:03:38+00:002024-03-28T23:22:54+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/findley-and-roberts-pawleys-island-wedding-story-in-black-and-white/<h2>A Preview Of Findley And Robert's Pawley's Island SC Wedding in Black and White</h2>
<p>Findley and Robert were married on October 3 2020 in an imtimate wedding ceremony in Pawley's Island South Carolina in front of close family and friends. The wedding was downsized due to Covid, but once again this pandemic has provided reflection into what's really important in weddings. These black and white moments are a few favorites from Findley and Robert's wedding story, focusing on candid, spontaneous documentary and the lasting moments that make weddings so timeless. </p>
<p></p>
<p><img alt="black and white wedding photo of bride and groom dancing under string lights at pelican inn pawley's island" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/2010-findley-robert-pelican-inn-pawleys-island-wedding-black-and-white-documentary-00123_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>About the Pawley's Island SC Wedding Venue - The Pelican Inn</h3>
<p>This was my second time photographing a wedding at the Pelican Inn and I was absolutely thrilled to be heading back. The venue is right on the water and seems to always deliver on spectacular sunsets. The home is quaint and cozy, but with enough space to host a sizeable wedding party. Guests can even stay the night in one of the home's many rooms. It's full of charm, old wood and furniture, and the most charming wrap around porch - a lowcountry staple. </p>
<p><img alt="pawley's island pelican inn wedding couple smiling for a candid wedding photograph in black and white" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/2010-findley-robert-pelican-inn-pawleys-island-wedding-black-and-white-documentary-00077_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h3>More Black and White Wedding Documentary Photography by Brian D Smith Photography</h3>
<p>Black and white images are timeless and seem to draw my eye toward moments over details. They're perfect for the imperfect. You can find more black and white wedding photography previews <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/tag/bnw-story/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/tag/bnw-story/">HERE</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the wedding photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your wedding and tell your unique story with an artful eye. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact South Carolina Wedding Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Ashten and Frank's Aiken SC Wedding Story in Black and White2020-09-25T11:27:58+00:002024-03-28T18:18:56+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/ashten-and-franks-aiken-sc-wedding-story-in-black-and-white/<h2>A Preview of Ashten and Frank's Aiken SC Wedding in Black and White</h2>
<p>Married on a family property, Ashten and Frank got married on an early fall day in Aiken South Carolina with close friends and family. Downsized because of Covid, this is a preview of their story in black and white</p>
<p></p>
<p><img alt="aiken sc intimate backyard wedding with bride and groom walking in black and white" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/2009-ashten-frank-aiken-wedding-black-and-white-preview-x100v-00076_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the wedding photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your wedding and tell your unique story with an artful eye. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact South Carolina Wedding Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Hasselblad 202FA Film Camera Review For Portraits and Weddings2020-09-06T16:43:40+00:002024-03-29T07:27:16+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-202fa-film-camera-review-for-portraits-and-weddings/<h2>Hasselblad 202FA Medium Format Film Camera System Overview</h2>
<p>The Hasselblad 202FA is a focal plane shutter medium format film camera from Hasselblad. It's designed and built with the same ergonomics as the classic Hasselblad, modular, square body camera system but with the addition of a few extra electronic bits. The 202FA features a focal plane shutter, as apposed to the traditional leaf shutter that is incorporated into the lenses of the 500 series cameras. The focal plane shutter has the benefit of a faster shutter speed, but most importantly it allows for the design of faster lenses since you don't have to incorporate a shutter into the design. This was my main reason for purchasing the 202FA camera. I wanted to shoot the legendary Hasselblad FE 110mm F2 lens. The 202FA is one of a few cameras in the focal plane shutter line from Hasselblad. Hasselblad first introduced the focal plane shutter in a 2000 series, but most people avoid those cameras for their poor build and lack of features. The 202FA sits ahead of the 2000 series, but slightly below the top of the line 203FE and 205TCC/FCC cameras. The features are similar among the 4 cameras, but the 202FA has a 1/1000th max shutter whereas the others have a 1/2000. There are other features that differ between the cameras, but none that were a deal breaker for me. So, I decided to save a bit of money (about $500 or so) and go with the 202FA. If I had found a good deal on a 203FE, I would have bought it just for the extra stop of shutter speed. </p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad 202fa film camera product photography in charleston sc studio on tan savage seamless paper backdrop" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00003_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The legendary, FE 110mm F2</p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad FE 110mm F2 medium format film lens studio porduct photograph in charleston sc" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00008_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Hasselblad 202FA Camera Specifications</h3>
<p>I won't go into crazy detail about specs or minute details of the camera's operation, as I mostly care about real world experiences, pros and cons, and image quality. </p>
<ol>
<li>1/1000s Top Shutter Speed</li>
<li>Interchangeable Film Backs, E12 and E24</li>
<li>In camera TTL metering</li>
<li>Interchangeable Lenses</li>
<li>Multi-Exposure Mode (infinite). A decouple lever to disengage the film advance from the shutter cock.</li>
<li>Flash sync at 1/90s, and TTL capabilities with dedicated hasselblad flash units. </li>
<li>Aperture Priority</li>
<li>Full Manual Operation</li>
<li>Manual Focus</li>
<li>Self Timer</li>
<li>Manual Film ISO Setting on Back</li>
<li>Comes with the Hasselblad Acute Matte D bright screen</li>
<li>Takes Hasselblad FE lenses. All of the standard hasselblad focal lengths, but the FE lenses are 1 stop faster</li>
<li>Can use Hasselblad CF and CFi lenses but only in stopped down mode. You cannot use the leaf shutter of the lens like you can on the 203FE</li>
</ol>
<p><img alt="hasselblad 202fa medium format camera system in pieces in studio on tan seamless" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00006_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad 202fa dials and exposure adjustment buttons in studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00004_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad 202fa medium format film camera with FE 100mm F2 lens in studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00005_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="exposure adjustments and controls of hasselblad 202fa medium format focal plane shutter camera system" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00001_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>It's just as beautiful as every other hasselblad camera but with just a bit of modern lines and controls. Shown here is the 202FA with the 45 degree prism finder, FE 110mm F2 lens and E12 back. </p>
<p><img alt="a studio product shot of the hasselblad 202fa with 110mm F2 lens in charleston sc" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00002_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Prism and Waist Level Finders for the Hasselblad 202FA</h3>
<p>The 45 degree prism is removable and can be swapped out for the traditional hasselblad waist level finder, 90 degree prism finder or even metered prism finders....which is strange because the camera already has TTL metering and a readout right above the matte screen that is visible through the prism. I bought the camera with the 45 degree PM5 finder but quickly ordered the PM90, non metered, finder. The downside to using angled finders is that they force your perspective to be a bit lower for portraiture. I shoot a lot of close up portraits, and this 'nose up' perspective is generally considered unflattering. I ordered the PM90 prism so that I could shoot at a higher, more flattering perspective. I will say, however, that Hasselblad cameras are ergonomically terrible when using a 90 degree finder. A lot of the rotational resistance and stability from holding a hasselblad comes from pressing the camera into your palm, both when looking through the viewfinder and when depressing the shutter on the front of the body. When you are using a 90 degree finder, the camera tends to sit less cradeled in your palm and and pressing the shutter button can often cause the camera to want to move. I still use the 90 degree finder, but am just a little more careful about how i grip the camera. The PM5, 45 degree, finder is significantly more ergonomically friendly. </p>
<p></p>
<p>IMPORTANT: If you are going to buy this camera, make sure it comes with a waist level finder. WLFs are nearly impossible to find for these cameras and when you do find one, expect to pay around $600 for one. I assumed that a normal WLF would fit from a 500 series onto my 202FA when I bought it, but I quickly realized that there is a cutout on the front of the prism mounting channel where the metering readout slides into so that it is visible in the prism and the WLF that comes with the camera. You can identify the meter window WLFs by 2 blue lines, same with all prisms for the system, on the side of the unit. They are often called "blue line" finders. I didn't want to spend the money, so I painstakingly modified the 500 series WLF I purchased off ebay with a dremel tool. It was quite difficult to get the size and cuts right and it still doesn't sit perfect as there are other slight design changes to the mounting tracks on blue line finders.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Another important note to mention with waist level finders on the 200 series cameras is that the meter display will read upside down. This is because it is meant to be used with a prism which is flipping, 180 degrees, what is coming through its mount and into what you are seeing through the eyepiece. It's a bit annoying and you wouldn't think so, but it is actually quite hard to read shutter speeds upside down, particularly 5s and 2s since they look like one another inverted. </p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad e12 film back with darkslide in studio on tan seamless paper" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00007_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Hasselblad 202FA Lens Options - FE Lenses</h3>
<p>The 200 series cameras take a new series of lenses, designated FE. Most of the Hasselblad FE lenses are most easily noticeable by their 1 stop faster aperture, except for the 80mm which still remains at F2.8 maxium aperture. You can tell the FE lenses apart in pictures by 2 blue lines on the side of the lens, just as the prism finders have. I own the 50mm F2.8, 80mm F2.8, 110mm F2 and 150mm F2.8. All lenses except the 110mm F2 came with the camera. All I really wanted for the camera was the 50mm and 110mm. I told myself I would sell the other two as soon as I got the camera. I decided to hold onto the 80mm, because it's such a good do it all lens, especially when the 110 is too long. I will most likely sell the 150, however. I just don't often find a need for it. </p>
<ol>
<li>Zeiss FE 50mm F2.8 Distagon</li>
<li>Zeiss FE 80mm F2.8 Planar</li>
<li>Zeiss FE 110mm F2 Planar</li>
<li>Zeiss FE 150mm F2.8 Sonnar</li>
<li>Zeiss FE 250mm F4 Tele-Tessar</li>
<li>Zeiss FE 350mm F4 Tele-Tessar</li>
</ol>
<p><img alt="hasselblad FE 110mm fe lens side view with blue lines" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2008-hasselblad-202fa-100mm-f2-film-camera-review-brian-d-smith-photography-00009_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>Here are two examples of where the two lenses I primarily use for the Hasselblad 202FA really shine</p>
<h4>Hasselblad Planar FE 110mm F2 Lens for 200 Series Cameras</h4>
<p>The 110mm F2 lens is legendary for its ultra shallow depth of field. As far as I know, it is the shallowest DOF lens for a medium format camera system. The mamiya 80mm F1.9 is faster, but given the Hasselblad's longer focal length, it has a significantly shallower DOF. The DOF is so shallow and the focal plane is so flat that it renders close to large format. When I am shooting this lens, I am shooting it at F2 at least 80% of the time. It's super sharp at F2 and only suffers from slight vignetting in the corners. Otherwise, you can just shoot at F2 all day long. You do have to be really careful with focusing, which isn't always the easiest thing to do on a hasselblad. </p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad fe 110mm f2 planar lens bokeh for 200 series cameras" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2006-sally-backyard-charleston-studio-kodak-portra-800-hasselblad-202fa-film-portrait-00002_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>As you can see in the image, above, the bokeh of the lens is really beautiful and not at all distracting when shot wide open. The bokeh is pleasantly circular, with just a touch of hexagonal shape from the large aperture blades. It's also really really sharp in the center. It doesn't have the surreal rendering of the Zeiss 80mm F2 for the Contax 645 system - <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/contax-645-medium-format-film-camera-review-for-weddings-and-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/contax-645-medium-format-film-camera-review-for-weddings-and-portraits/">Contax 645 Review</a><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/contax-645-medium-format-film-camera-review-for-weddings-and-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/contax-645-medium-format-film-camera-review-for-weddings-and-portraits/"> Here</a></span>. Honestly, the Zeiss 80 at times appears to have a shallower depth of field because it has such creamy, blended bokeh and the focal plane isn't perfectly flat, but if you want that large format rendering then the Hasselblad Planar FE 110mm F2 lens is the only way to go in medium format film. </p>
<h4>Zeiss Distagon FE 50mm F2.8 Wide Angle Lens for Hasselblad 200 Series</h4>
<p>This is the other legendary lens for the Hasselblad 200 series medium format film cameras. Nearly everyone who shoots medium format film knows of the Hasselblad 50mm distagon lens design, the F4 version for the 500 series cameras. It's a storied lens with beautiful rendering and very little distortion. The FE 50mm F2.8 lens is stellar...nearly flawless. The lens has 4 floating elements so distortion is nearly non-existent. It's the most beautiful wide angle lens I have ever used, having about a 28mm lens equivalent on 35mm full frame cameras. I tend to never shoot 35mm. It's a relatively boring focal length for me. I always gravitate toward 50mm equivalent, and if I go wide, I tend to go really wide. </p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad FE 50mm f2.8 engagement portrait from hasselblad 202fa on chalmers st in charleston sc" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2002-nash-amy-charleston-downtown-february-engagement-photos-film-00046_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I haven't used the 50mm nearly as much as I would like to. I want to take it traveling with me and use it more for scene setting portraits at weddings, but the lens is SO heavy. It weighs nearly 5 pounds. It's exhausting to carry around. I don't think I could ever use it as a dedicated lens on the camera because it would make my neck and shoulders so sore at a wedding or portrait shoot. </p>
<p></p>
<h2>Hasselblad 202FA Medium Format Film Camera for Wedding Photography</h2>
<h3>Shooting Manual Focus Film at Weddings</h3>
<p>Honestly, it isn't easy manual focusing at weddings. Even when you take your time, there is still that ever existing pressure of the schedule or timeline weighing on you and I find that my hit percentage for manual focus is much lower at weddings than it would be during a portrait or studio shoot. That being said, I would rather miss by my own mistake than relying on finicky AF systems of film cameras. I also enjoy the process of slowing down at weddings. </p>
<p><img alt="bokeh of hasselblad 110mm f2 with bridal portrait holding bouquet in northern michigan at aurora cellars" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2007-michigan-bridal-editorial-aurora-cellars-film-wedding-photographer-brian-d-smith-00089_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I also think that square format is something so timelessly cool and there is something to be said for a format and look that not many other wedding photographers pursue. I think using the Hasselblad is a good way to make my work stand out, with the unique 6x6 negatives. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom portrait in an outdoor studio with savage muslin backdrop taken with 202fa hasselblad" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00061_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom film portrait with pink flowers in west michigan wedding on hasselblad and kodak film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00111_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Speed and Usability of the Hasselblad for Wedding Photography</h3>
<p>Honestly, this is the only area where I would ding the Hasselblad for being a great medium format film camera for wedding photographers. You really have to be diligent and make sure you don't run out of film near a critical moment because winding and changing the film is not a fast process. I definitely recommend having a spare back or two for quick swapping. It isn't particularly hard to load the camera...honestly, it's quite a nice experience, but it isn't nearly as fast as a auto camera. If I am shooting the hasselblad 202FA at a wedding, I typically have an auto film camera on me as well, like my Canon EOS 1V. It takes a lot of practice to be comfortable with the Hasselblad as a primary wedding film camera, but it is doable if you commit to loving the process of slowing down. This is what I have done, but I do stress that you should have a backup camera of some sort that is very quick to load. The square format, though...it's just cool. </p>
<p><img alt="black and white film wedding portrait on hasselblad with bride and groom standing beneath tree at felt mansion" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00087_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Additional wedding photography information and Hasselblad 202FA images on the site</h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weddings/">Film Wedding Photography by Brian D Smith</a></span></p>
<h2>Review - Photographing Portraits with the Hasselblad 202FA Film System</h2>
<h3>Why the Hasselblad is my Favorite Film Portrait Camera</h3>
<p>Nobody shoots film regularly and isn't intrigued by the square format, and particularly the Hasselblad system. It's a legendary camera, and almost every famous film photographer in history used it in some fashion in their work. I initially started by purchasing a Hasselblad 500 c/m and fell in love with the top down viewfinder and the classic approach to photography that the system seemed to coerce me into. It was never my end goal, however. I wanted the focal plane system, so as soon as I scored my 202FA, I sold the 500 c/m and then I really fell in love with Hasselblad. I think there is something huge to be said about the camera that feels cool, the camera that wills you to go out and shoot more. That is the hasselblad for me. I feel so connected to the process, to the bright viewfinder, to the manual focus lenses, to the hand crank to advance the film. I genuinely feel like this connectedness makes me a better portrait photographer. The other main reason is the lens selection. I bought this camera, intentionally, for the lenses. The lenses are unlike none I have ever used and that is enough to justify a camera...much like the Contax. However, if I was only allowed to have 1 camera for the rest of my life, it would be an easy decision picking the Hassy over the Contax 645. </p>
<p><img alt="kodak t-max 400 portrait in an outdoor studio of sad girl on black and white film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2006-sally-charleston-sc-self-developed-black-and-white-film-hasselblad-studio-portraits-00023_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Shooting a Hasselblad 202FA Film Camera in Studio</h3>
<p>The hasselblad is also my go to film camera for studio work that is LED lit or naturally lit. I still use the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/projects/fall-themed-fashion-shoot-in-studio-with-strobes-on-film/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/projects/fall-themed-fashion-shoot-in-studio-with-strobes-on-film/">contax 645 for studio strobe work</a></span>. I find that subjects seem to connect better with a familiar camera and one that is maybe less "technical" looking like a modern AF film camera or digital camera might be. When all of the other movements involved with the shot are slower and more thought out, I find that I am more patient waiting on that exact moment where the subject's expression is what I want. The only downside to shooting a Hasselblad as a studio portrait camera is that it can be hard to focus in dim lighting. My 500 c/m, without the bright screen was so difficult to focus in studio settings (light reference, ISO 400, F2.8, 1/60). I missed focus about 40% of the time with my 500 c/m. With the bright screen and proper split prism of the Acute Matte D focusing screen, my percentage is much higher. That being said I still miss...maybe 3 shots per roll of 12. It's just one of the quirks of the camera that I deal with because I love the process and results so much. </p>
<p><img alt="studio portrait of artist holding paint brush and easel on kodak film with hasselblad 202fa" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2005-film-chelsea-green-cmi-charleston-sc-studio-portraits-branding-00003_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I even use the camera when I shoot fashion work. It's just such a joy to use and I'm often okay with a bit of motion blurr and out of focus images that a slower camera like the hasselblad can be susceptible to. </p>
<p><img alt="fashion portrait on kodak portra 800 film with hasselblad 202fa of girl in bandana top and black jeans" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2006-glennon-charleston-hasselblad-kodak-film-portraits-p800-00004_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Viewing the World Through a Waist Level Finder is Magical</h3>
<p>If you've never used a WLF, waist level finder film camera like a Hasselblad or TLR...go out and do it now. It's hard to explain just how enjoyable it is. There is a presence to the viewfinder. Colors are vibrant and light is beautiful. Subjects seem to exist in your camera. That's why I own a WLF for my Hasselblad 202FA, even though a prism finder is better for portrait work because it puts the perspective closer to subject eye level. I use my WLF when I am doing more documentary work, like photographing my family. This film portrait of my family on vacation was shot on Portra 800 film. You can see all of those film documentary portraits, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weekly/07-04-20/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weekly/07-04-20/">here</a></span>. </p>
<p><img alt="Kodak portra 800 film shot of family in water in northern michigan with giant boat tube" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2007-bear-lake-michigan-family-kodak-gold-portra-800-film-00028_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Cons and Downsides of the Hasselblad 200 Series Film Cameras</h2>
<p>Really, the only thing that would ever keep me from buying into the 200 system from Hasselblad, or using it as my primary medium format film camera is the price and the lack of repairability of the shutter. It's an expensive system to buy into, bodies alone cost upwards of $2000 and that is if you can find one. Most for sale on ebay are buy it now auctions from Japan with inflated prices. The biggest downside, however, is that the silk focal plane shutters cannot be repaired, so you'll just have a brick of a body. If you don't mind just continuously buying new bodies when they inevitably fail then this won't be a problems. However, the cameras will get harder and harder to find and more expensive because of it. </p>
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<p><img alt="black and white film portrait of girl laughing in outdoor studio taken on hasselblad 202fa and 110mm f2 lens" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2006-glennon-self-developed-film-black-and-white-kodak-trix-charleston-00009_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why You Should buy a Hasselblad 202FA - One Reason</h2>
<h3>The FE 110mm F2 Lens is One of the Greatest Medium Format Film Lenses Ever</h3>
<p>The 110mm Planar F2 lens is just surreal...literally surreal. It so nearly obtains that large format surreal rendering, that it almost convinced me to sell my 4x5 camera. The focal plane is so razor flat and the rendering is so pleasant. It's just a dream lens and the only way to shoot it is to buy a 200 series camera or find one that was strangely adapted to a Pentax 67 or digital camera. I wrote a detailed review of that lens, <a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-fe-110mm-f2-planar-medium-format-film-lens-review/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-fe-110mm-f2-planar-medium-format-film-lens-review/">here</a>.</p>
<p><img alt="shallow depth of field film portrait from hasselblad 202fa and 110mm f2 lens of girl on stool in fall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/hasselblad%20202fa/2005-charleston-fashion-portraits-kodak-tmax-400-film-hasselblad-202fa-12_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p>Thanks for reading my review of the Hasselblad 202FA medium format film camera system for weddings and portraits. I am an experienced film photographer, shooting all my work on film, and having shot most of the popular camera systems on the market. If you have any questions about the Hasselblad 200 series film cameras and my exerience as a wedding and portrait photographer, please reach out! Be sure to check out the rest of my blog for more camera reviews, galleries and other film photography work. </p>
<h2>More Camera Reviews, Photography Tips and Helpful Articles on the Blog</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/forphotographers/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/forphotographers/">For Photographers - Brian D Smith Photography Film and Education Blog</a></span></p>
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<h2>Learn more about Film Photographer - Brian D Smith Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Portrait, Wedding, Editorial and Branding Photography</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial, lifestyle<span> </span>and portrait photography. I operate a photography studio in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad. LGBTQ supporter and firm believer in the cause for all races to fight for equal rights. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Film Wedding and Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Film Wedding Photography at West Michigan's Felt Mansion2020-08-04T10:22:44+00:002024-03-29T01:18:37+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/film-wedding-photography-at-west-michigans-felt-mansion/<h2>About the West Michigan Wedding Editorial at Felt Mansion</h2>
<p>Felt Mansion was the first stop for Emily of Connolly House Events and I on a 5 day road trip through Michigan, touring the most stand out wedding venues that the state has to offer. Emily and I both share a passion for elevating Michigan wedding style and fashion and when we had the opportunity to piece together an editorial on our road trip, we took the opportunity to showcase some fashionable Michigan love. A real couple, killer native Michigan florals, artful hair and makeup, a classic dress silhouette and brilliant vision came together on a sunny West Michigan evening. The result became some of my most effortlessly romantic bride and groom portraits to date - all shot on 35mm and medium format film. </p>
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<p><img alt="felt mansion wedding portrait photography by brian d smith photography with out of focus bride and groom on 35mm film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00054_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>The West Michigan Wedding Vendor Team</h3>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/">Connolly House Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/">https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.cassandjean.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.cassandjean.com/">Cass and Jean Flower Co.</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/cass_and_jeanflowerco/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/cass_and_jeanflowerco/">https://www.instagram.com/cass_and_jeanflowerco/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.feltmansion.org/" target="_blank" title="https://www.feltmansion.org/">Felt Mansion</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/eventsatfelt/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/eventsatfelt/">https://www.instagram.com/eventsatfelt/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://wildemeraldbridal.com/" target="_blank" title="http://wildemeraldbridal.com/">Wild Emerald Bridal</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wild.emerald.bridal/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wild.emerald.bridal/">https://www.instagram.com/wild.emerald.bridal/</a></span></p>
<p>Dress Boutique: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.springsweet.com/bridal" target="_blank" title="http://www.springsweet.com/bridal">Spring Sweet Bridal</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/springsweetbridal/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/springsweetbridal/">https://www.instagram.com/springsweetbridal/</a></span></p>
<p>Couple: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jess_brinks/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/jess_brinks/">https://www.instagram.com/jess_brinks/</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mynameisjaroldo/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/mynameisjaroldo/">https://www.instagram.com/mynameisjaroldo/</a></span></p>
<h3>About The Michigan Wedding Couple</h3>
<p>Jessica and Jared met while studying at the IIT Institute of Design in Chicago. Both are charasmatic, ethusiastic entrepreneurs - their first extensive formal encounter being at a mentorship program for creative minds in business at the college. Jessica is sophisticated and classic. Jared is a renaissance type man. They are a power couple in the most figurative sense of the phrase. Most importantly, they genuinely love eachother and in an outwardly expressive way. They are quiet in demeanor and expressions of affection but I felt every pause, every whisper and every gaze come through in the imagery. There is a quiet poeticism to their love, and I'm not sure I've ever seen it so well reflected in photographs as I did in this michigan wedding editorial. Love is bountiful and plentiful in the world, but it is a rare thing to find a love with such a deep sense of affection and appreciation for one another. This editorial just happened to correspond with the 1 year anniversary of their wedding and I'm so happy to capture their love still going strong after this trip around the sun. I very much want to thank Jared and his affectionate little wing nut for being such cool, romantic souls. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom portrait on medium format kodak film at west michigan wedding venue felt mansion" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00046_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="35mm film photograph of bride and wedding dress at sunset at felt mansion by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00065_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why I Love West Michigan Wedding Venue - Felt Mansion</h2>
<p>Felt Mansion is a dynamic wedding venue with rich history. In the 3 hours we were shooting, I never ran out of unique backdrops for portraits. The venue, itself, features beautiful architecture and a ceremony location the likes of which I have never seen. The grounds it sits on backs up to a sprawling golden grass field - my favorite nature marvel in all of Michigan. I longingly gaze out on its golden grass fields during my long car rides through the state and whenever I have the chance to photograph amongst them, I'm in a wedding photographer's paradise. The inside of the property is well curated and serves as a museum to the mansion's original state when it was a home to a welathy investor - before being gifted to the state. Felt Mansion brilliantly combines historic, romantic architecture (almost remniscent of detroit) with the idyllic beauty of western and northern Michigan, all in one wedding venue. I could photograph here for hours and never get bored of the scenery and never run out of new spots to photograph...and we didn't even have the chance to photograph inside! </p>
<p>If you'd like to see a detailed tour of the interior and exterior of the property, and a tour of all my favorite Michigan wedding venues, check out Connolly House Events and I's blog post from our <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/">5 Day Road Trip To the Best Michigan Wedding Venues</a></span>.</p>
<p><img alt="black and white film portrait of bride and groom at felt mansion wedding by brian d smith photography on hasselblad and kodak t-max 400" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00011_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me For Your Felt Mansion Wedding</h2>
<p>I like to let the images speak for themselves. In my blogpost about <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/">Michigan's Best Wedding Venues</a></span>, I touched on all the beautiful styling details and history of the venue that I loved. I love that it stands for something greater than just a venue to make a profit. It stands for preservation and history and I think that is such a romantic backdrop for something as timeless as marriage. I'm genuinely proud of the images we created here. I'm proud of this team and I think they are my most romantic couple's portraits to date. The venue let me inspired and I think it shines through in the images and I'd love to see what I can create for you at your wedding. I still feel like there are so many spots on the property that I have yet to explore. I shoot entirely on film, 35mm and medium format. It's the perfect medium for showcasing that beautiful, golden Michigan light. Most importantly, no one will work harder to tell your story in a unique way that showcases who you are in the greater context of this property. Art through storytelling is always most important to me when photographing anything and I promise you we will create something equally beautiful as these images, but alltogether, entirely different. Importantly, I am committed to any kind of love and any love story. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ, all races, all religions and believe so deeply in the right of everyone to pursue happiness and love to their fullest extent. </p>
<p><img alt="felt mansion wedding portrait on 35mm film by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith of couple in golden field" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00056_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Felt Mansion Ceremony Locations</h3>
<p>Here are the two most popular ceremony locations at Felt Mansion, West Michigan wedding venue. The first location is a long walkway out to a circular platform surrounded by a reflecting pond. The beautiful evergreen backing, pink flowers greeting you at the entrance to the pool, and long isolated walkway make this such a unique spot to say I do in Michigan.</p>
<p><img alt="wedding ceremony location at felt mansion in west michigan of bride and groom on medium format film with pink flowers" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00111_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The second location features an adorable white church atop a small hill facing West Michigan's gorgeous, golden grass fields. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom in front of church ceremony location at felt mansion best michigan wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00097_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Check out these amazing florals! Wild Flowers local to West Michigan, too.</p>
<p><img alt="michigan florist bouquet with wild flowers on 35mm film by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00009_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Michigan light and film go so perfectly together with timeless, affectionate love. </p>
<p><img alt="michigan wedding photographer portrait on medium format film at felt mansion by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00080_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the wedding photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your wedding and tell your unique story with an artful eye. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>5 Days and a Tour of Michigan's Best Wedding Venues2020-07-29T16:45:39+00:002024-03-29T04:29:14+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/<h2><span>About the Michigan Wedding Venue Tour Project</span></h2>
<p><span>This project started as a simple idea to connect. I've spent my entire life visiting Northern Michigan in the Summer but never established any connections in the industry that now has become my life and allows me the flexibility to spend my Summer amongst the beauty of the Michigan landscape. I connected with Emily from Connolly House Events on Instagram. What started out as an attempt to connect with wedding planners in Michigan turned into a personal bonding over fashion and a genuine desire to elevate the style of the wedding industry. I felt that Emily and I both had the desire to do things a bit differently. We loved the traditions of marriage and weddings, but sprinkled with a touch of Vogue. We adore the quiet Michigan landscape, but with a pinch of NYC energy. </span></p>
<p><span><br/>Something I have learned in my early career as a wedding photographer is that the industry functions in teams. Being the best individual often requires the best team. Thus, the idea to engage with Michigan's Best Wedding Venues was born. Thousands of "best wedding venue" blog posts already exist, so in Emily and I's genuine and true fashion we set out to do it differently. We spent 5 days road tripping around the entire state visiting the best wedding venues in West Michigan, Grand Rapids, Metro Detroit, and Northern Michigan. We visited venues, explored cities, crashed with friends and family and ate good food...all fueled by the best coffee you can find. </span></p>
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<p>When you are done reading through the best of what Michigan has to offer for nature wedding venues, city wedding venues, modern wedding venues, and historic wedding venues, please check out Emily and I's websites and be sure to give us a follow on Instagram! If you'd like to chat, please call or email either of us and I'm sure we can convince you of just how passionate we are about what we do and why it makes us the best in Michigan's Wedding Industry.</p>
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<h3>About The Michigan Wedding Photographer and Wedding Planner</h3>
<p>I spend my Summers in Northern Michigan, and whenever I have weddings scheduled throughout the year, and Emily lives year round in Grand Rapids. She also grew up in Metro-Detroit. So, between her and I, we have the entire state covered and have a deep, personal connection to the entire Michigan landscape. Emily and I are great as individuals but, if you are planning your wedding, I highly encouarge you to speak with the two of us and we can echo our shared vision of what we find inspiring about the wedding industry and how we strive to push it forward into a fashionable future. </p>
<p><img alt="best michigan wedding photographer and wedding planner on kodak film brian d smith photography connolly house events" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2004-william-aiken-self-portraits-on-kodak-portra-800-film-and-zeiss-tlr-00002_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h4>For More Information About Each of Our Michigan Wedding Businesses Check Out Our Websites</h4>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weddings/michigan-weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weddings/michigan-weddings/">Brian D Smith Photography - Michigan Wedding Photographer</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/">Connolly House Events - Michigan Wedding Planner</a></span></p>
<h4>Likewise Connect with Us and Follow Us On Instagram</h4>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">Brian D Smith Photography On Instagram</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/">Connolly House Events on Instagram</a></span></p>
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<h2><span></span>Michigan's Best Wedding Venues</h2>
<p><img alt="michigan's best wedding venues by brian d smith photography on a tour of best ceremony and reception wedding locations in detroit, west michigan and northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-36_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I'd like to start out by saying that this list isn't necessarily all inclusive. Some venues we reached out to were either not open or unable to accomodate because of covid restrictions and resulting staff shortages. So, if you'd like to be on the list but are currently not, please reach out because we would love to speak with you! This project was largely about making connections with the people who run and are passionate about the wedding venues, but we also wanted to highlight our favorite details and vignettes that make each such a desireable place for your Michigan Wedding. </p>
<h3>Best West Michigan Wedding Venues</h3>
<p><span>Our Journey started in West Michigan, the home of Emily's wedding planning business and a wonderful mixture of hip, historic and countryside wedding venues. </span></p>
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<h4>FELT MANSION</h4>
<p>Felt Mansion is located just north of Saugatuk Michigan and is one of West Michigan's most historic and cherished wedding venues. Felt Mansion comprises the sprawling estate and residence of Dorr E. Felt, a self made millionaire who inveted the comptometer - think early calculator. Dorr E. Felt passed away, along with his wife, shortly after the homes completion in 1928. It remained in the family until WWII when it exchanged hands a few times serving as a home for Catholic Nuns and an office for the State Police. It was sold, by the state, to Laketown Township in the early 1990s under the stipulation that it be used as a public historic site. Today, Felt Mansion operates as a wedding venue to fund the costs of upkeep and preserving the beautiful history of this Western Michigan Estate. </p>
<p><img alt="felt mansion west michigan best wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-33_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Felt Mansion's exterior is a lovely faded brick with towering stone columns that surround it's entryway. Greenery adorned arches offer a glimpse into a tiny breakfast nook patio that is a perfect cocktail hour bar location for your outdoor Michigan Wedding. </p>
<p><img alt="michigan wedding venue felt mansion brick home exterior in Sagautuk " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-37_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The venue features a permanent, conrete floor reception tent and patio so you never have to worry about adding a tent option. Not to mention it extends right out into a state park and sprawling grass field where guests can mingle at cocktail hour and the couple can take some dynamite sunset wedding portraits. </p>
<p><img alt="wedding venue felt mansion back patio and wedding reception tent in west michigan by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-38_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATIONS</h5>
<p>Felt Mansion features two primary wedding ceremony locations. The first, and the one that I find the most unique, is a circular reflection pool with a long stone walkway leading to a central fountain. It is surrounded by lush greenery. It's a really wonderful option if you are hiring a film photographer, as the light reflects quite intensely off of the stone pathway. Film handles highlights so beautifully. Plus, can you imagine walking down this walkway in your dress?</p>
<p><img alt="michigan wedding venue outdoor ceremony location at felt mansion with circular fountain " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-31_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The second ceremony location is in front of this adorable white chapel at the back of the property and butting up to the state park. Honestly, you can't go wrong with either location. Imagine walking down that long stretch of as guests turn around to see your wedding dress in all of it's glory! It's pretty rare that a wedding venue offers two distinct outdoor ceremony location and the property's size certainly makes it a rare find as a Western Michigan Wedding Venue. </p>
<p><img alt="outdoor wedding ceremony in front of white chapel at west michigan wedding venue Felt Mansion" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-42_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>INTERIOR</h5>
<p>The interior of Felt Mansion is certainly something that makes it wonderfully unique. The township did such a wonderful job preserving the original character and architecture of the estate. It features period correct murals, meant to replicate the originals found in the home, and wood craftsmanship and trimmings worthy of magazines. I spend my time in a 1960s wood cabin in Northern Michigan when I stay here during the summer so I am always partial to dark wood interiors. Guests will love touring the home and aweing at its history. </p>
<p><img alt="felt mansion interior featuring historic wood and vintage murals in western michigan for wedding ceremony and receptions" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>It features one of the best groomsmen getting ready locations I've seen in a wedding venue yet - a vintage book lined library. </p>
<p><img alt="historic library in western michigan wedding venue groomsmen getting ready location by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-30_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This wedding venue has enough vintage touches to make the hippest of couples feel at home. Guests can stay in the home's historic rooms. It's funny to look back on the cycles of traditions. If I had to style a home today, I would do it just like this one. </p>
<p><img alt="west michigan wedding venue interior at felt mansion with vintage chairs and woodwork" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-12_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>It features an alternate, indoor reception area on the top floor of the property with a beautiful, curved plaster ceiling. </p>
<p><img alt="alternate indoor wedding ceremony location at west michigan wedding venue felt mansion" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-18_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Admiring quirky wallpaper and vintage mirrors quickly led to a tour long trend of taking selfie's in the wedding venue mirrors. Please please tell me where I can buy that wallpaper (hint...you can't).</p>
<p><img alt="west michigan wedding venue interior wall paper and self portrait by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-25_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The bridal suite at Felt Mansion was far and away my favorite room in the house. It had plenty of natural light, which is a wedding photographer's dream, and tons of vintage furniture for your interior bridal portraits. Honestly, it is probably my favorite bridal suite I've seen at any wedding venue and one of the reasons Felt Mansion would be at the top of my list for best michigan wedding venues. </p>
<p><img alt="west michigan wedding venue felt mansion bridal suite by wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-6_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Last but not least...a touch that probably won't be reflected in your wedding day photos too much, but something I always admire - a good vintage bathroom. I adore vintage tilework andd the bathrooms at Felt Mansion certainly do it well. I'd love to shoot some bridal prep boudoir in these bathrooms. This project really opened my eyes to appreciating the little details of Michigan Wedding Venues and thinking outside my ever expanding creative box for portrait locations and storytelling opportunities. </p>
<p><img alt="vintage blue bathroom tile at felt mansion west michigan wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFO ABOUT WEST MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE FELT MANSION</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.feltmansion.org/wedding-receptions/" target="_blank" title="https://www.feltmansion.org/wedding-receptions/">Click here for more information about Michigan weddings at Felt Mansion</a></span></p>
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<h4>GRAND RAPIDS ACCOMODATION</h4>
<p>Emily was gracious enough to host me in her own home during the first two nights of the trip. It was a real step up from the intended sleeping spot of my 4runner, and it was a great opportunity to have someone show me the charming uptown areas of Grand Rapids. </p>
<p>Backpacking through Europe has made me excellent at packing light and living minimally. I packed a small backpack of clothes andn my favorite film camera gear!</p>
<p><img alt="super 8 and film camera gear of brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-grand-rapids-brian-d-smith-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Of course I brought along my favorite Austrian hat (A country that Emily and I both bonded over) and had time for my classic mirror self portrait. </p>
<p><img alt="self portrait on fuji x100v by brian d smith photography in circular target mirror" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-grand-rapids-brian-d-smith-6_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>We stopped by the perfect Covid friendly coffee shop/van as we departed early for Greencrest Manor. Outside coffee company in Uptown Grand Rapids did not disappoint and is certainly a spot I'll go back and hang at again. </p>
<p><img alt="outside coffee co camper van coffee cart in uptown grand rapids" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-grand-rapids-brian-d-smith-10_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h4>GREENCREST MANOR</h4>
<p>Greencrest manor is a Bed and Breakfast and Western Michigan Wedding Venue located in Battle Creek. Greencrest is Michigan's best European style wedding venue, and I'd argue one of the best in the country. It's truly a gem, located deep within the trees down a narrow road in a Western Michigan farm town. I've had my eye on Greencrest Manor for a long time, in large because of my love for European styling and architecture. It isn't something easy to find in any United States wedding venue. Greencrest was built as an estate for an early 1900s lumber baron. It was later transfered to the Catholic church and served as a seminary before exchanging hands with a few private owners. Today, the estate is owned and run by Jenn and David Ederer. I prefer to let the exquisit french architecture of this west michigan wedding venue do most of the talking, but I'd be remissed if I didn't mention a few words about Jenn. Jenn owns, operates, and tends to this property as a passion project - not just as a wedding venue or bed and breakfast. When we visited, she was tirelessly tending to the gardens with the heart and care of someone whom the littlest detail is a reflection of their own personal vision. When you stay at Greencrest, you are staying at someone's home. You are staying in a place built to inspire, to relax and to comfort. You are transported to a french countryside in the middle of West Michigan, where Jenn is your tourguide, curator, and hostess. You have to see the property to truly appreciate it, but I hope my pictures come close or inspire you to visit yourself. I could make magic hear as a Michigan wedding photographer, and I hope you see it's potential too. </p>
<p><img alt="greencrest manor by film wedding photographer brian d smith in western michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The ivy walls on the front of the home's facade are certainly the showstopper, but when you inspect the home in further detail you see just how much attention to detail goes into every inch of this west michigan wedding venue property. Can you imagine your wedding day portraits in front of this facade?</p>
<p><img alt="french architecture at european styled wedding venue greencrest manor in battle creek michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-2_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>If my images don't convince you enough just how much I loved every detail of this property, please reach out and I'd love to tell you just how breathtaking a michigan wedding would look catpured on this property, all on film. </p>
<p><img alt="film wedding photographer brian d smith captures west michigan wedding venue greencrest manor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>GARDENS</h5>
<p>Making your way around to the back of the property reveals sprawling gardens, with the quaint and cozy feel of the french countryside. Archways and stone staircases guide you through the properties numerous, lush gardens. </p>
<p><img alt="greencrest manor gardens and wedding reception venue in western michigan by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-21_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The opportunities for wedding day portraits at this michigan wedding venue truly make it one of the most desirable in the state, if not the entire country. </p>
<p><img alt="european wedding venue greencrest manor gardens by film wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-10_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="european flower garden at united states wedding venue greencrest manor by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-14_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="european wedding venue in the united states by film wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-9_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>EUROPEAN INTERIOR</h5>
<p>Greencrest Manor's interior is just as well thought out and styled as the home's exterior. Every inch of the property is pure character and reflective of old world french styling and architecture. Wedding guests can stay in one of the manor's numerous, uniquely styled rooms, making it the perfect weekend getaway wedding venue for you, your bridal party and entire family. </p>
<p><img alt="greencrest manor wedding venue interior in battle creek michigan by film wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-41_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="greencrest manor bed and breakfast and wedding venue bedrooms in western michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-34_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The interior is spacious, yet cozy. I felt like I could live there after only having been inside for a few minutes. Its inspiring, yet inviting. Your guests will love your wedding day exerience just as much as you will. </p>
<p><img alt="french architecture and paintings on the teal walls of greencrest manor wedding venue in west michigan by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-36_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Light and textures, everywhere. </p>
<p><img alt="light and textures of greencrest manor interior in west michigan by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-55_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The sun room / breakfast room to the left when you first walk in the property is a large and inviting room where you and your closest friends and family can gather during your wedding weekend getaway in west Michigan. </p>
<p><img alt="sun room and breakfast room at western michigan wedding venue and bed and breakfast greencrest manor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-48_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Every fabric, every texture is curated to be true to the original french inspiration of the manor. </p>
<p><img alt="vintage floral textures and fabrics at european wedding venue greencrest manor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-58_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This pink themed room was my personal favorite. </p>
<p><img alt="bed and breakfast with french styling in battle creek michigan by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-62_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>THE BRIDAL SUITE</h5>
<p>Once again, a west michigan wedding venue nails the bridal suite. Lighting and space is everything in a bridal suite and this room at Greencrest Manor had plenty of it. The textures and colors complemented the bright and spacious feel of the bride getting ready suite. Your entire bridal party can fit in the room and the light allows for those joyous bridesmaids getting ready photos that you've been dreaming of. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal suite at west michigan wedding venue greencrest manor by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-67_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>PREP KITCHEN</h5>
<p>Another important detail that makes this a great weekend getaway wedding venue is the spacious prep kitchen / functioning guest kitchen. Your guests can prepare their own meals in the comfort of european styling without ever leaving the manor. The venue even provides a stocked bar service!</p>
<p><img alt="prep kitchen at european wedding venue in battle creek michigan greencrest manor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-42_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Last but not least, the original architectural prints complementing the modern day photograph of it's preserved exterior. These are the small touches that make this Michigan wedding venue truly one of it's best, if not best in the entire country. </p>
<p><img alt="architectural drawings of best michigan wedding venue greencrest manor in west michigan by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-2_web-1.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFO ABOUT EUROPEAN STYLED WEST MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE GREENCREST MANOR</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://greencrestmanor.com/" target="_blank" title="https://greencrestmanor.com/">Click here for more information about Greencrest Manor</a></span></p>
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<h4>VENUE3TWO</h4>
<p>Located in Grand Rapids, Venue3Two has a unique history and mission behind it's existence as a west Michigan wedding venue. What started as a ranch, was purchased in 2016 and turned into an Equine Therapy Center. The venue uses horses, in a non-riding atmosphere, to comfort and assist underpriveledged families, communities and victims of sex trafficing. The wedding business supports the property and the non profit 3TwoRanch that facilitates the program. Venues like this have been one of my most surprising realizations of my tour of the best Michigan wedding venues. So many of the venues have a mission behind them. Wedding are expensive. We all know this. If you are going to invest so much money in an event, I love the idea of that money going towards a charitable and noble cause. </p>
<p><img alt="venue3two exterior of grand rapids wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The stone architecure or Venue3Two seamlessly blends classical manor faceade with modern touches that the venue's brand is known for (check out the copper roof). </p>
<p><img alt="best grand rapids wedding venue exterior venue3two" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATION</h5>
<p>The ceremony location is positioned at the back of the property, offering two views. Front facing you have a view of the wedding venue's beautiful architecture, and rear facing you have a view of Michigan nature. You can't go wrong either way and I think it is a wonderful option to have for brides to choose their ceremony view. </p>
<p><img alt="venue3two wedding venue outdoor ceremony location in grand rapids michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-6_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>INTERIOR</h5>
<p>Venue3Two's interior is beautifully, minimalist styled with plenty of light. Windows are everywhere and it is one of the first things I noticed about the venue when I entered the interior. I also quite liked the earth toned contrast between the dark woods, cream walls, and gold features/lighting. </p>
<p><img alt="venue3two michigan wedding reception interior by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-10_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="west michigan wedding venue interior in grand rapids with large windows by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-27_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>Receptions are held in the Conservatory - the most recent addition to the property. It's spacious and well lit and even has a grand piano on location for bands to use! It's a clean, blank canvas of a location to craft a reception and offers large window views to keep you connected to Michigan's nature. </p>
<p><img alt="indoor reception wedding venue in west michigan venue3two by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-9_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>BRIDAL PREP AND GROOM GETTING READY ROOMS</h5>
<p>Venue3Two offers a large bridal prep room, indcluding a smaller attached staging room, and a groom getting ready room equipped with comfortable furniture and fantastic light! Again...I can't stress just how critical good light is for wedding day getting ready photographs. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal prep room at west michigan wedding venue venue3two by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-24_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Attached prep rooms and groom getting ready suite.</p>
<p><img alt="groom getting ready room at venue3two in grand rapids michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-20_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The venue even includes a cozy bridal prep hair/makeup studio! That way your entire wedding day can be completed start to finish in one location. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal prep salon at venue3two in western michigan wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-31_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="venue3two wedding venue interior and self portrait by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-23_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>PREP KITCHEN</h5>
<p>One of the showstoppers for this Grand Rapids wedding venue is its massive and well lit kitchen. It serves as a cocktail hour location, staging area for food services and a great option for a desert bar later in the evening. I want to live in this massive kitchen!</p>
<p><img alt="prep kitchen at venue3two in grand rapids with seafoam green island" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-16_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h5>MORE INFO ABOUT GRAND RAPIDS WEDDING VENUE VENUE3TWO</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.venue3two.com/the-venue" target="_blank" title="https://www.venue3two.com/the-venue">Click here for more information about Venue3Two</a></span></p>
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<h4>HOLLAND MICHIGAN AND DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS</h4>
<p>I had an opportunity to explore downtown Holland on my own before Emily and I reconveined for a burger pick-me-up in downtown Grand Rapids, before heading on to our next destination. </p>
<p><img alt="holland michigan downtown photographs by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-holland-brian-d-smith-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="downtown grand rapids best hamburger by michigan photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-grand-rapids-brian-d-smith_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Ann Arbor's Best Wedding Venues</h3>
<p>Ann Arbor was the bridge between our western michigan venue tour and detroit. We stopped in Ann Arbor for a quick exploration of downtown before heading to one of the more unique, destination event and wedding venues in all of Michigan.</p>
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<h4>ZINGERMAN CORNMAN'S FARM</h4>
<p>Zingerman is another example of a well-intentioned wedding venue. It pitches itself as a wedding venue and culinary destination and it certainly backs up it's claims. The venue states that the culinary experience is the heart of the venue. I absolutely adore this. It puts intention behind the event and makes the space so much more than a blank space for a wedding venue. The venue becomes such an integral part of the experience. Food is a wonderful conversation starter and such a strong unifier in any culture, and I can't imagine a better focal point for the reception atmoshphere of a wedding than some tastefully curated, chef prepared cuisine. Chef Kieron Hales grew up working in Michelin Star restaurants in England bringing family recipes and heritage to central Michigan along with a farm to table mentality that can be experienced and view through the wedding venue's fruitful gardens. I typically lead these blog posts with an image of the venue facade, but thought it fit for this Ann Arbor Wedding Venue to lead with the gardens that produe so much of the flavors that make this place so special. </p>
<p><img alt="zingerman cornman's farm culinary focused wedding venue and sustainable gardens in Ann Arbor michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-43_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The exterior of the building is inviting as any farm house should be. </p>
<p><img alt="zingerman cornman farm wedding venue exterior and sign in ann arbor michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-15_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>You are greeted at the front entrance by fresh herbs and local craftsmandship and I can't think of a better way to set the tone for your wedding experience at this farmhouse venue. </p>
<p><img alt="herbs growing outside of farm to table wedding venue zingerman cornman's farm in ann arbor michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-25_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Since I started my photography career, I have fallen in love with the barn/farm aesthetic. Its something I didn't know I missed until I left my childhood home of Ohio. I spend the cooler months in Charleston, SC before returning north to spend my summer in Michigan and everytime I make that drive I fall in love with red barns and golden grass fields all over again. </p>
<p><img alt="red farm houses at zingerman cornman's farm by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-29_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="best ann arbor wedding venue zingerman cornman's farm exterior and outdoor ceremony space" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-33_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATION</h5>
<p>The ceremony location is situated at the front of the house where the front porch greets in traditional farmhouse comforst. Plenty of shade is offered from nearby trees and distant fields of golden grass and red farmhouses make this a rustic, yet authentically comfortable backdrop for your wedding ceremony. It makes you want to get married here then just have a sit in the rockers and listen to the sounds of nature. </p>
<p><img alt="outdoor michigan wedding ceremony location at zingerman cornman's farm outside ann arbor by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="golden grass fields in central michigan at wedding venue zingerman cornman's farm" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>INTERIOR</h5>
<p>The interior stays true to the warm, farmhouse aesthetic of the Central Michigan wedding venue's exterior. My favorite feature of the house was this cozy, intimate dinner room perfect for family celebrations, rehearsal dinner's and micro-weddings and elopements. </p>
<p><img alt="zingerman farmhouse table reception space in central ann arbor michigan by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-47_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Of course, it has a true chef's kitchen where guests can watch the magic happen. </p>
<p><img alt="zingerman cornman's farm kitchen at ann arbor wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-58_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>As always...self portraits and a matching hat</p>
<p><img alt="self portrait by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography at ann arbor wedding venue zingerman" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-51_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Upsairs features a bridal prep suite, catering to the truly all-inclusive nature of this intimate wedding venue. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal prep suite at zingerman cornman's farm in ann arbor michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-8_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This mural in one of the upstairs rooms was a show stopper...I had to stop through twice to take photos of it's old world charm. </p>
<p><img alt="rustic european mural at michigan farm wedding venue zingerman cornman's farm" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-7_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>Receptions are held in the large barn. The barn retains the original structure with some modern finishings and upgrades to the faceade, prep kitchen and strucutre. The downstairs to the barn is used as a cocktail hour retreat while the upstairs is a rustic blank canvas to craft your dream wedding reception. Importantly, the venue features an elevator so it is accessible to the handicapped and elderly!</p>
<p><img alt="barn reception wedding venue in central michigan by wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-11_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>MORE INFORMATION ON ANN ARBOR WEDDING VENUE ZINGERMAN CORNMAN'S FARM</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://zingermanscornmanfarms.com/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://zingermanscornmanfarms.com/weddings/">Click here for more information about Zingerman's Cornman Farm</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Metro Detroit's Best Wedding Venues</h3>
<p>I've never been to detroit before. I've spoken with people that grew up there and they raved about the culture and the rich history. We all know recent narative surrounding Detroit and the poverty that has surrounded the crashing of the auto industry, but I was excited to see the city for myself and form my own unbiased opinion. I thrive on unique, stylish clients and weddings and I was excited for the Detroit wedding market as it could be the city to provide just that!</p>
<p></p>
<h4>DOWNTOWN DETROIT</h4>
<p>Detroit stood out to me for one reason...the architecture. Genuinely, it is some of the most beautiful architecture I have ever seen. The mid century styling and mixing of bronze metals and intricate stone work was awe-inspiring. I took more photographs here than any other city I visited. We only had the chance to tour the city, just long enough to grab coffee and do a quick lap, but it will be a destination I quickly return to...plenty of film in hand. </p>
<p><img alt="mad cap coffee detroit michigan by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-detroit-brian-d-smith-photography-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>The towering GM building was certainly a sign of more profitable times. Having seen the city in it's state of poverty, I would have love to have seen it during its heyday. Hopefully, moving forward it will regain its old glory...this time more inclusive to all of the cultures that make up its diverse population. </p>
<p><img alt="gm building in downtown detroit on kodak gold 200 35mm film by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-detroit-brian-d-smith-photography-4_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The city architecture is such a beautiful mix of warm earth tones and cool blue reflections from the windows and sky. </p>
<p><img alt="detroit michigan downtown street art alleyways on kodak gold 200 35mm film by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-detroit-brian-d-smith-photography-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h4>THE WAR MEMORIAL - GROSSE POINT</h4>
<p>The War Memorial was our first Detroit wedding venue stop, located in the afluent suburb of Metro Detroit - Grosse Point. The stone facade of the building welcomes you at the end of a long stretch of stone road, lined with trees and golden yellow florals. At the end is a roundabout with a Italian Renaissance style mansion that was constructed in 1910. Soon after the passing of the original owner, the home was donated as a community arts center and memorial to the Gross Pointe community that served in the world wars. It has remained in this state ever since, serving as a gathering place for ideas, arts, community and rememberance - yet another Michigan wedding venue that serves a greater purpose. It has remained a constant theme on this trip that these beautiful venues exist to celebrate something beyond marriage, using the revenue from weddings to further its charitable goals. I find this all quite romantic and love that these wedding venues in Michigan stand for something greater. </p>
<p><img alt="war memorial metro detroit wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Yellow is my favorite color to photograph and I was instantly captivated by the landscaping welcoming you into the venue.</p>
<p><img alt="yellow flowers lining the entrance to detroit wedding venue the war memorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-6_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The architecture and the light shining through it...</p>
<p><img alt="best detroit wedding venue war memorial exterior shot by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-15_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>FRONT GARDENS</h5>
<p>My second favorite feature of this venue was the landscaping. The family hired a landscape architect to design the gardens while the house was being designed and it clearly shows. The gardens in the front of the house, shown below, offer so many portrait locations for your bride and groom portraits on your michigan wedding day. </p>
<p><img alt="landscaping at detroit wedding venue war memorial by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-12_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="war memorial gardens in metro detroit by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-10_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>OUTDOOR CEREMONY LOCATION AND REAR GARDENS</h5>
<p><img alt="rear of the war memorial detroit wedding venue reception area outdoors " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-53_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>If you love being on the water, then I truly can't imagine a more beautiful wedding venue. The back lawn serves as an outdoor ceremony location and cocktail hour for your detroit wedding. Being so close to the water was certainly a highlight of the War Memorial and made it quickly skyrocket to the top tier of my best Michigan wedding venues list. </p>
<p><img alt="waterfront wedding venue in metro detroit for outdoor ceremony and reception" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-55_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Just as much care and attention to detail went into the rear gardens and landscaping as did the front. It's a wonderful location for portraits and for guests to enoy themselves during cocktail hour. </p>
<p><img alt="rear gardens with pink and yellow flowers at detroit wedding venue in grosse point" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-62_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>It even has a cute balcony for some Romeo and Juliet inspired romantic gestures. </p>
<p><img alt="detroit wedding venue balcony at war memorial by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-71_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>INTERIOR</h5>
<p>The bridal suite at the War Memorial was well styled, and beautifully lit. It's a photographer's dream, with plenty of space for your bridal party and beatufiul furniture and styling to give you album worthy getting ready photos on your Michigan wedding day. The vintage chairs and matching curtains were a standout favorite of mine. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal suite at best metro detroit wedding venue the war memorial by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-22_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>The War Memorial features an indoors wedding reception venue that overlooks the water. It's quite spacious and can easily accomodate your 200-300 person wedding making it one of few venues in the metro-detroit wedding market that can accomodate this size. </p>
<p><img alt="metro detroit wedding reception venue indoors at war memorial in grosse point" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-51_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>LIBRARY AND WOODWORKING</h5>
<p>I am going to jump straight to my favorite feature/room of the wedding venue - the library. Looking at the photographs now, I am still in awe of the styling and lighting of this library. From the intage book lined shelves, to the brass clad ceiling tiles, to the inlaid wood details on the early century credenza - I was in awe everywhere I turned. If this venue didn't stand out as a favorite wedding venue in Michigan before, it certainly did now. I could take the most romantic and timeless bride and groom portraits in this room. If you are imaginging your dress draped across that herringbone wood floor with golden light reflecting off the woodwork just like I am, please get it touch and let's get to planning. </p>
<h5><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Metro Detroit Wedding Photographer - Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></h5>
<p><img alt="vintage books in library at best metro detroit wedding venue war memorial by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-30_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="selfie on fuji x100v in metro detroit wedding venue library war memorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-36_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The ceiling tiles will give you a sore neck. I was looking up for a significat portion of the wedding venue tour. </p>
<p><img alt="italian renaissance ceiling tiles at war memorial in metro detroit" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-46_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The art-deco and italian renaissance styled lighting fixtures and door accents were another personal favorite of both Emily and I. </p>
<p><img alt="italian renaissance light fixtures at metro detroit's best wedding venue the war memorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-47_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Window light is always the best light. </p>
<p><img alt="window lighting and wood window trim at the war memorial a detroit wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-41_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Since I can't live here...please, at least let me photograph your metro detroit wedding here. </p>
<p><img alt="wedding reception venue interior in metro detroit grosse point at the war memorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-29_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Last but not least was this naval inspired staging area / groomsmen getting ready area located in the lower level of the wedding venue property. It's a nice, cool spot for the groomsmen to relax while the bridal party is getting prepped on those hot summer michigan wedding weekends. </p>
<p><img alt="groomsmen getting ready area at the war memorial detroit's best wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-50_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The architecture in the War Memorial house, specifically the woodworking, and it's waterfront location made it a standout hit for the Michigan wedding venue market. It's easily one of the prettiest homes I've ever been in and the architecture provides a high-end, romantic feel for your wedding day portraiture. The gardens and landscaping was the other standout for the detroit wedding venue, featuring ample portrait spots all in close proximity. This is the photographer's dream.</p>
<h5>FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ONE OF METRO DETROIT'S BEST WEDDING VENUES PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITE BELOW</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.warmemorial.org/venue" target="_blank" title="https://www.warmemorial.org/venue">Click here for more information on the War Memorial in Grosse Point</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h4>MEADOWBROOK HALL</h4>
<p>Our second Metro Detroit wedding venue stop was Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester Hills. What first strikes you about Meadow Brook Hall is its sheer size. The home is one of the largest in the country, constructed between 1926 and 1929 by Matilda Dodge Wilson, originally for her late husband and Detroit auto industry pioneer, John Dodge. You enter the estate either from a large brick road with a small museum exhibit dedicated to early Dodge automobiles or by crossing a bridge and exiting into a roundabout at the home's grand entrance - my personal favorite entrance to the property. </p>
<p><img alt="front entrance to metro detroit wedding venue meadowbrook hall by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The alternate, rear entrance to the property provides a stunning glimpse into the stonework of the property's facade. </p>
<p><img alt="rear entrance and dodge museum at metro detroit's meadowbrook hall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-19_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATION</h5>
<p>The ceremony location was my favorite view at this metro detroit wedding venue. It had plenty of space to accomodate 200-300+ guests and multiple directions for staging your ceremony depending on the view you wanted. Personally, I love the view of the home with the gardens on your left and the spacious lawn and treeline to the right. </p>
<p><img alt="meadow brook hall wedding ceremony location in metro detroit on green lawn" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The alternate perspective looks onto the a large stone wall and one of the wedding venue's lush gardens. The bride emerges from a large, vintage wooden door for a grand entrance to your Michigan wedding ceremony. </p>
<p><img alt="gardens and ceremony location for your metro detroit michigan wedding by brian d smith " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-4_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>GARDENS</h5>
<p>The majority of the estate's gardens are located dat the rear of the property and are cared for by an entirely volunteer staff. I loved that the community cared so much to keep this historic landmark operating and in beautiful condition that they would volunteer their time and efforts to tend the gardens. I think this is a very romantic sentiment to get married alongside. </p>
<p><img alt="best detroit michigan wedding venue meadow brook hall rear landscaping and gardens" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-20_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="metro detroit wedding venue gardens and greenery at meadow brook hall by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-28_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>One of the most appealing features of the property is a permanently installed tent, capable of seating all of your guests for your 300+ person Michigan wedding party. The tent's interior and ceiling are draped and the sides open up to reveal the property's gardens on those beautiful Michigan summer days. </p>
<p><img alt="permanent reception tent at detroit wedding venue meadow brook hall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-14_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING VENUE INTERIOR</h5>
<p>The interior serves, largely, as a museum to the original condition of the house and the Legacy of Matilda's design and the Dodge family name. Most locations are open for the guests to mingle and awe in the intense detail put into every inch of the house. Look at that ceiling work in the home's main corridor. </p>
<p><img alt="interior museum of dodge home in detroit michigan meadow brook hall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-34_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The plaster ceiling in the main dining room was my favorite architectural detail in the entire home. Meadow Brook Hall even hosts dinners at the original dining table!</p>
<p><img alt="metro detroit wedding venue cocktail hour interior at dodge meadow brook hall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-35_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The sun room / breakfast nook featured warmer styling and themes from Matilda's travels which are reflected in numerous other architectural elements throughout this Detroit Michigan wedding venue.</p>
<p><img alt="meadow brook hall spanish and asian themed sun room in detroit michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-36_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>What makes this estate one of Metro Detroit's best wedding venues, if not certainly one of the best in Michigan and perhaps the country is a simple vision. Imagine rolling up in a limousine or vintage car, circling the roundabout and exiting out dressed in your wedding dress to this grand exterior view. You'll be in awe, just as much as your guests. </p>
<p><img alt="exterior of one of the US largest homes meadow brook hall best detroit wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-41_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFORMATION ABOUT METRO DETROIT WEDDING VENUE MEADOW BROOK HALL</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://meadowbrookhall.org/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://meadowbrookhall.org/weddings/">Click here for more information about Michigan Wedding Venue Meadow Brook Hall</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Best Northern Michigan Wedding Venues</h3>
<p>Northern Michigan is where I reside when I spend my Summer's here as a Michigan wedding photographer. Between me living in Northern Michigan, Emily living in Grand Rapids, and her growing up in Metro Detroit, we have the entire state covered. Northern Michigan is known for its lakes, wineries, countryside and nature. The 3 wedding venues we visited on this leg of the trip cover that gamut perfectly, showing you the best of what a Northern Michigan wedding venue has to offer.</p>
<h4>AURORA CELLARS</h4>
<p>I was already familiar with Aurora cellars, having visited the property once before for a wedding, a venue tour, and to enjoy the winery. I wanted to include this on the tour of Michigan's best wedding venues because I knew it was one Emily should experience and I wanted the chance to approach the property from a different, more documentary style perspective. The feeling I left with was this - there isn't a bad angle to this property. Every direction you turn, is a beautiful feature, texture, color. It feels like you are on a quaint farm, at a winery, and in the middle of nature all at the same time. The entrance to the venue sets the tone with pink floral adorned arches and a colorful row of shrubs, as guests gaze out into the winery vines on the right. </p>
<h4><img alt="aurora cellars exterior northern michigan best wedding venue and winery" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-4_web.jpg" width="600"/> </h4>
<p><img alt="aurora cellars wedding venue entrance in northern michigan by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-7_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING CEREMONY LOCATION</h5>
<p>The showstopper and reason most people are won over by this property is the ceremony location. Just steps from the wedding venue entrance is one of the largest willow trees I have ever seen. Not only is it a dream ceremony backdrop, but a dream location for your couples portraits for your Northern Michigan wedding.</p>
<p><img alt="ceremony location with large willow tree at northern michigan wedding venue aurora cellars" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-14_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>EXTERIOR FARMHOUSE AND GREENSPACE</h5>
<p>The property features a cute, refinished farmhouse / guesthouse where the bridal party can get ready and even stay the weekend on the property. It's fully furnished on the interior and serves as a cocktail hour bar before your wedding reception. </p>
<p><img alt="farm house getting ready location for northern michigan bridal party and wedding at aurora cellars" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-9_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>As a lot of my favorite venues seem to have, Aurora Cellars features a permanent, concrete pad, tent installation so you never have to worry about rain washing out your Northern Michigan wedding day. </p>
<p><img alt="permanent wedding reception tent at northern michigan wedding venue aurora cellars by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-11_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Aurora Cellars even takes it a step further and provides farmhouse tables for seating of guests during dinner. </p>
<p><img alt="farmhouse tables for wedding reception under tent in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-17_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>FARMHOUSE INTERIOR AND BRIDAL PREP ROOM</h5>
<p>The interior of the farmhouse / guesthouse has a fully functioning kitchen, guest bedrooms and a large masterbedroom for wedding couples and bridal getting ready. The bridal party can also use the downstairs living room as a prep/ hangout area. it features lots of space and a ton of available light - perfect for those dreamy getting ready photographs with your bridesmaids. </p>
<p><img alt="farmhouse interior and bridal prep room at northern michigan wedding venue aurora cellars" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-28_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="guest bedrooms at weekend getaway wedding venue aurora cellars winery in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-27_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="fuji x100v and mirrorself portrait and door knob at aurora cellars in traverse city michigan leelanau county " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-30_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BEST NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE AURORA CELLARS</h5>
<p>Aurora Cellars is certainly a standout in the Northern Michigan wedd venue market, but definitively a favorite in the Traverse City / Leelanau County area. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.auroracellars.com/wedding/" target="_blank" title="https://www.auroracellars.com/wedding/">Click here for more information about Aurora Cellars Weddings</a></span></p>
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<h4>FOUNTAIN POINT RESORT</h4>
<p>Fountain Point is unique as a Michigan Wedding Venue in that it serves as a family vacation resort. Nestled along Lake Leelanau, this venue has a very communal feel, and an inviting atmosphere for wedding couples and out of town guests. Guests can even stay on the property and it is highly encouraged to rent out the entire venue and stay in one of the main house's vintage styled guest rooms or one of the cottages on the property's grounds. Fountain Point feels like Northern Michigan feels to me. It feels like my lake house that I grew up spending my summer's at. It feels like family, and for this reason it makes the list of best Northern Michigan wedding venues. </p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort northern michigan wedding venue entrance by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The exterior is reminiscent of a summer cottage and vintage Inn that Northern Michigan's lakesides are known for.</p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort main hotel and house exterior and gardens by brian d smith photography in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-2_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The inn features a spacious wrap around porch where guests can enjoy the beautiful Northern Michigan sunsets on your wedding day, or you can sip coffee with your significant other or bridal party on your destination wedding weekend. </p>
<p><img alt="best northern michigan lakeside wedding venue fountain point showing exterior of inn" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort outdoor nature wedding venue in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-8_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The famous fountain that provides the resort with its historic name.</p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort and wedding venue fountain by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-9_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>FOUNTAIN POINT RESORT INN</h5>
<p>The inn has plenty of space for guests to hang out and relax on your wedding weekend and guest bedrooms upstairs so that your close friends and family can stay on the property. </p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort and inn interior and guest houses for destination wedding weekend" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-13_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>GUEST COTTAGES FOR DESTINATION WEDDING WEEKEND</h5>
<p>The guest cottages located on the wedding venue grounds offer your close friends and family the opportunity to partake in the traditional Northern Michigan lake cottage experience. </p>
<p><img alt="guest cottages at fountain point resort destination wedding venue in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-15_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FOUNTAIN POINT RESORT - NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE</h5>
<p>Fountain Point Resort offers one of Northern Michigan's few, truly waterfront wedding venue experiences and the communal atmosphere is certainly unlike any other I have visited on my tour of best Michigan wedding venues. All I can say is that it feels like the best of the Northern Michigan experience. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.fountainpointresort.com/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.fountainpointresort.com/weddings/">Click here for more information about Fountain Point Resort Weddings</a></span></p>
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<h4>NATURE</h4>
<p>"Unique and Thoughtfully Intentioned" - This is my overall impression of Nature Michigan as a place, as a wedding venue, as a destination and as an experience. From the onset, my experience touring this Northern Michigan Wedding venue was unlike any other, largely because the venue is unlike any other, but mostly because of the owner's hospitality. Bryan purchased the blank slate property alongside his wife Emma where they built a venue, an experience, and a home from the ground up. Bryan spent hours showing us around the property and I am grateful for the time he took (on his birthday!) to show us around the property and communicate every inch of intention that he placed into the design and conceptualization of this Michigan wedding venue. His beliefs, passion for nature, love of danish design, and care for the journey of human life come through in his speech, but equally so in the venue itself. This is something that made the venue so special to me. He had a vision for his own life and expressed that, passionately, in a place to begin yours. </p>
<p><img alt="nature a michigan retreat best northern michigan wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-27_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>You can't help but notice a vintage Volkswagen camper van when you show up anywhere...little did I know, this would be our tour guide for the day. As a lover of old automobiles, I was thrilled. </p>
<p><img alt="yellow volkswagen camper van in northern michigan at nature wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Bryan toured us around the vast property, pointing out every meaningful detail of the wedding venue. Exploring the grounds, you truly do feel like you are in nature, and I found it to be such a unique experience in a wedding venue.</p>
<p><img alt="volkswagen camper van at nature michigan retreat wedding venue and glamping in northern mighican" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-14_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Guests can stay on the property at one of the 'glamping' tent locations or at one of the blank tent plots for a truly unique, destination wedding weekend experience. </p>
<p><img alt="glamping tents at northern michigan nature a michigan retreat in leelanau " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-13_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATIONS</h5>
<p>Nature features several ceremony locations, all of them outdoors, all of them connected to the beauty of nature in Northern Michigan. 3 of the wedding ceremony locations are breaks in the trees atop hills on the property. What I found inspiring about these locations, some of them dark sky certified, was their feeling of peace. I couldn't hear a thing aside from the rustling of the trees or the singing of birds. If you love nature, as a couple planning to get married, I think this is should definitely be considered as a ceremony location for your summer or winter michigan wedding. Older guests will have to be shuttled up, but Bryan has options for transportation services.</p>
<p><img alt="northern michigan outdoor wedding ceremony locations at nature a michigan retreat" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-8_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The lower ceremony location is situated at the rear of the reception building, and features an equally beautiful and peaceful backdrop. I don't think you can go wrong with any of the locations and I'm certain Bryan would be happy to talk you through the decision. </p>
<p><img alt="lower wedding ceremony location at nature a michigan retreat wedding venue in leelanau michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-26_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>Wedding receptions are held in the building that sits at the main entrance to the property. It features a prep kitchen space, bathrooms for getting ready and guests, a yoga room, and plenty of beautiful natural light. Bryan spoke to Emily and I about the intention that went into the direction of the building and the angles of the windows relative to the sun to provide optimal light and view of the surrounding nature. Its these thoughtfulm details that make this venue so special. Plus, a wedding planner can't go wrong with a beaufitul blank slate wedding reception venue with plenty of natural light. </p>
<p><img alt="interior window light of wedding reception venue nature michigan by wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-17_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="nature michigan retreat wedding getting ready bathrooms self portrait by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-18_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The thoughful touches continue into every corner of this Northern Michigan wedding venue including a cocktail hour bar installation and one of the worlds most efficient wood stoves. </p>
<p><img alt="wood stove and northern michigan indoor wedding reception venue nature michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-22_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE - NATURE</h5>
<p>Nature was the perfect venue to cap my tour of Michigan's best wedding venues, and will certainly sit at or near the top as one of my favorites of the tour. I'm certain that future brides and grooms will love Bryan's enthusiasm and intent just as much as Emily and I did, and connect with the overall experience that Nature offers as a wedding ceremony location, reception space, and destination wedding weekend getaway in Northern Michigan. Plus, it was the only wedding venue on the trip that I left with homework, a renowned must read book on storytelling in cinematography, and I think that's hella cool. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.naturemichigan.com/weddings" target="_blank" title="http://www.naturemichigan.com/weddings">Click here for more information about Nature</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the wedding photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your wedding and tell your unique story with an artful eye. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>
<p><em>FROM CONNOLLY HOUSE EVENTS</em></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/contact" target="_blank" title="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/contact">Contact Emily from Connolly House Events</a></span></span></h3>August Brengman Brother's Winery Destination Wedding in Northern Michigan2020-04-28T10:45:09+00:002024-03-29T01:24:38+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/august-brengman-brothers-winery-destination-wedding-in-northern-michigan/<h2></h2>
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<p>Julie and Tyler flew in from New York City for a destination wedding at Brengman Brother's Winery in Traverse City Michigan. Like so many couples that choose to have a Northern Michigan wedding, they had family ties to the area and dreamt of being married in Michigan's idyllic beauty. They were one of my coolest, most laid back couples yet, and it made it a true pleasure to be their Michigan wedding photographer. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom against ivy wall at brengman brothers winery during august northern michigan wedding captured on kodak portra 800 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/julie-tyler-brengman/1908-brengman-brothers-winery-northern-michigan-wedding-summer-film-00504_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="northern michigan wedding couple photographed by the water in traverse city peninsula during august wedding portraits" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/julie-tyler-brengman/1908-brengman-brothers-winery-northern-michigan-wedding-summer-film-00325_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><br/>Thank you so much to Compose Events for pulling off a seamless and beautiful wedding day and to Brengman Brother's Winery for being the wonderful wedding venue that they are!</p>
<h2>Brengman Brother's Winery Northern Michigan Wedding Vendor Team </h2>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://composeevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://composeevents.com/">Compose Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/compose_events/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/compose_events/">https://www.instagram.com/compose_events/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://brengmanbrothers.com/hospitality" target="_blank" title="http://brengmanbrothers.com/hospitality">Brengman Brother's Winery</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/brengmanbrothersweddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/brengmanbrothersweddings/">https://www.instagram.com/brengmanbrothersweddings/</a></span></p>
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<h2><span></span>Why I love Brengman Brother's Winery as a Northern Michigan Wedding Venue</h2>
<p>Northern Michigan is known for it's winerys. You can't drive 5 miles in Traverse City or Suttons Bay without encountering one. Brengman Brother's is certainly one of the most scenic, sitting atop a hill, tucked away down a long stretch of gravel road. It has gorgeous sunsets and lush greenery every way you turn. They have a secluded ceremony site should you choose to have your wedding ceremony at the winery, the aisle formed at the exit of a long row of grape vines. There is an indoor tasting room for cocktail hours and emergencies in case of rain. The tasting room can also be used as a getting ready location. A large tent sits in front of the tasting room to house your Northern Michigan wedding reception, right atop the hill, overlooking the entire property. </p>
<p><img alt="brengman brother's winery wedding venue at sunset on kodak portra 800 film by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/julie-tyler-brengman/1908-brengman-brothers-winery-northern-michigan-wedding-summer-film-00491_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me as your Brengman Brother's Wedding Photographer</h2>
<p>I adore taking bride and groom portraits at this Northern Michigan wedding venue. The property is huge and has plenty of places to explore with your wedding party and just the two of you during formal portraits. Long rows of grape vines provide a quiet escape for some breathtaking portraits, full of rich color - which I am such a fan of on a wedding day. My favorite thing about the venue, and why I love being a wedding photographer at Brengman Brother's is the sunsets. The sunsets are truly magical and there are so many fantastic colors and textures to catch the light for your bridal portraits and bride and groom portraits. </p>
<p><img alt="brengman brother's winery sunset bridal portrait during august northern michigan wedding with bride twirling" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/julie-tyler-brengman/1908-brengman-brothers-winery-northern-michigan-wedding-summer-film-00582_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Northern Michigan Wedding Details that I Loved</h2>
<p>I absolutely loved the mismatching, dusty blue and purple bridesmaids dresses.</p>
<p><img alt="bridesmaids dresses in dusty blue and purple in traverse city michigan with traverse bay behind them on kodak portra 800 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/julie-tyler-brengman/1908-brengman-brothers-winery-northern-michigan-wedding-summer-film-00346_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Tyler's reactions to his bride walking down the isle brought a tear to my eye. Groom's showing their emotion is the one thing that always gets me on a wedding day. </p>
<p><img alt="groom crying at alter during catholic wedding ceremony in Northern Michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/julie-tyler-brengman/1908-brengman-brothers-winery-northern-michigan-wedding-summer-film-00198_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>More Northern Michigan Weddings</h3>
<p>To see more Northern Michigan wedding photography, click on the link below to see more blog posts for Michigan and destination weddings and couples. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/destinationweddings/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/destinationweddings/">Michigan and Destination Weddings on Brian D Smith Photography Blog</a></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~<br/><span></span></p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Michigan Wedding Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Colorful Fall Middleton Place Destination Wedding in Charleston SC2020-04-27T21:16:50+00:002024-03-29T06:19:20+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/colorful-fall-middleton-place-destination-wedding-in-charleston-sc/<h2>About the Colorful Fall Celebration at Charleston Wedding Venue - Middleton Place</h2>
<p>Sam and David flew in from San Francisco for their fall wedding at Middleton Place in Charleston San Francisco. Sam has family ties to the lowcountry and it made it a no brainer choice for their destination wedding. I first met Sam over a phone call and it has been one of the greatest I've had to a wedding client to date. Sam and David are sincere and kind people with a genuine love for travel, the arts, and unique images and styling. These are all things that I value deeply as a wedding photographer and these sort of connections truly do make for some stunning wedding photographs. </p>
<p><img alt="fall middleton place wedding portrait on kodak portra 800 film in charleston south carolina with blooming yellow tree and colorful bouquet" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00482_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why Sam and David Chose Me as Their Charleston Wedding Photographer</h2>
<p>I first spoke with Sam over a year out from their wedding. Now, I haven't been a wedding photographer for as long as most in Charleston, but I've always prided myself in doing things differently and being skilled beyond my years - not just in the traditional sense of being a great wedding photographer, but pushing boundaries and really embracing the artistic side of photography. Sam mentioned that she was drawn to my work because of my bold use of color. She was drawn to my pursuits as an artist, and even let me photograph them under water on film for their engagement session!</p>
<h3>Daniel Island Engagement Session with Underwater Couples Portraits</h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/spring-charleston-engagement-session-on-charlestons-daniel-island/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/spring-charleston-engagement-session-on-charlestons-daniel-island/">Sam and David's Charleston SC Engagement Session</a></span></p>
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<p>Their wedding was equipped with all of the beautiful southern charm of my favorite Charleston wedding venue, including the horse drawn carriage. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom on carriage in front of inn at middleton place in charleston south carolina by film wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00518_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><br/>I got to work with an amazingly talented vendor team for this charleston wedding - some that I have worked with numerous times and a few that I was anxious to work with for the first time. It took the right team to execute such a bold color palette that Sam had dreamt up for her wedding and I cannot recommend any of these vendors enough. They are some of the best in the industry and it showed on this dream wedding day in South Carolina. </p>
<h2>Middleton Place Charleston Wedding Vendor Team</h2>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://fabulousfete.com/" target="_blank" title="http://fabulousfete.com/">Fabulous Fete</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/">https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.beardedflorist.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.beardedflorist.com/">Bearded Florist</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/">https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.middletonplace.org/host-an-event/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.middletonplace.org/host-an-event/weddings/">Middleton Place</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/">https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/">Wild Ivory Beauty</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/">https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/</a></span></p>
<p>Videographer: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.seriovisuals.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.seriovisuals.com/">Ryan Serio</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ryanserio/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/ryanserio/">https://www.instagram.com/ryanserio/</a></span></p>
<p>Band: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://otherbrotherent.com/bands/david-higgins-band/" target="_blank" title="https://otherbrotherent.com/bands/david-higgins-band/">David Higgins Band</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/">https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.thefrencheclectic.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.thefrencheclectic.com/">The French Eclectic</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/">https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.snyderevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.snyderevents.com/">Snyder Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/">https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://eventhausrentals.com/" target="_blank" title="https://eventhausrentals.com/">Event Haus</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/">https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/</a></span></p>
<p>Lighting: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.lowcountryentertainmentsc.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.lowcountryentertainmentsc.com/">Lowcountry Entertainment</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/">https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/</a></span></p>
<p>Cake: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.abcdcakes.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.abcdcakes.com/">ABCD Cakes</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/">https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/</a></span></p>
<p>Transportation: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.lowcountrylooptrolley.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.lowcountrylooptrolley.com/">Lowcountry Trolley</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/">https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h2><span></span>Why I love Charleston Wedding Venue - Middleton Place</h2>
<p></p>
<p>Middleton Place is my favorite wedding venue in Charleston SC, no question. It's the most dynamic venue for hosting your southern wedding and for me, that makes things incredibly exciting. From cocktail hours and ceremonies in the octagonal garden, to receptions at the pavillion, to portraits in front of the old brick plantation home, or the remarkable cascading green hill down to the water at sunset, this south carolina wedding venue has it all. Wedding couples have the option to get their photos taken with a herd of adorable sheep or ride on a horse drawn carriage making several stops for scenic wedding photos along the way. I've photographed a few weddings and events at Middleton Place and it surprises me every time. This fall charleston wedding, for example, was alive with beautiful colors.</p>
<p>To see another beautiful fall wedding at Middleton Place, check out my blog post below. </p>
<h3>Blush Fall Wedding in Charleston South Carolina at Middleton Place</h3>
<p><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/brooke-and-cody-blush-middleton-place-october-wedding/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/brooke-and-cody-blush-middleton-place-october-wedding/">Brooke and Cody's Dreamy Blush Middleton Place Wedding in Charleston SC</a></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me as Your Middleton Place Wedding Photographer</h2>
<p>Middleton Place inspires me, and I think that is just about the most pressing question you could ask your Charleston Wedding photographer. Why do they love that wedding venue? What about the wedding venue inspires them? Bold color is a hallmark of my wedding photography and Middleton Place gives me plenty of opportunities to flex that signature style. As a film photographer, I dream of the all the lush greens that Middleton offers - the deep earth tones in the fall and the bright, bold florals in the spring. There is never a moment when the wedding venue doesn't look spectacular. Every time I set food on that property I am looking for something different - a new perspective, a new texture, a new pattern of light. And, with a Charleston wedding venue that large, there are so many opportunities for me to find inspiration. It's a film wedding photographer's playground. </p>
<p><img alt="middleton place charleston wedding venue with fall colors and bride and groom walking on kodak portra 800 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00532_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom descending stairs at middleton plantation during their wedding portraits for their charleston sc wedding captured by brian d smith photography on film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00526_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why this Charleston SC Wedding at Middleton Place Was so Special</h2>
<h3>Use of Bold Colors in the Wedding Design</h3>
<p>Just look at this one of a kind, custom made neon sign with colorful draping at this Middleton Place wedding reception in the pavillion. This was actually my favorite moment of the entire wedding. The bride and groom snuck away for a quiet moment with the photo booth and I snuck in for a quick capture. It was a beautiful, rare moment of quiet intimacy during the hustle of a big southern wedding.</p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom kissing in front of custom made sign with their newlywed name in neon at this charleston sc wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00988a.jpg_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Fun Traditions like the Horah</h3>
<p>The bride and groom, and eventually the mother and father of the bride, danced the horah at their wedding reception and the reactions made for some priceless wedding photographs. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom dancing the horah at middleton place on kodak p3200 35mm film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00904_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="groom in chair during horah dance at a charleston sc wedding captured on kodak p3200 film with a contax t3" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00903_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Bridal Getting Ready at the Belmond Charleston Place Hotel</h3>
<p>The Belmond is one of Charleston's most historic and beautiful hotels. The bridal suite has the best lighting of any hotel room I've ever shot in and this makes a huge difference in picture quality. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston wedding bridal party walking through the belmond charleston place hotel lobby" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00189_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><img alt="jewel tone tablescape at charleston sc wedding venue middleton place during reception" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00683_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="jewel tone florals and candles on reception dinner table at middleton place pavaillion in charleston south carolina" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00672_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Velvet Bridesmaids Dresses</h3>
<p>It's rare to see boldly colored, jewel tone bridesmaid dresses at a Charleston SC wedding, and especially not in such an interesting fabric as velvet. They complemented the bold color palette of the wedding so well and are just one more reason why this wedding was something unique and exciting for me as a Charleston Wedding Photographer. </p>
<p><img alt="blue velvet bridesmaids dresses in charleston sc for fall wedding with bride holding jewel tone bouquet on kodak film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-middleton/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00213_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Charleston Wedding Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Dusty Blue and Black Tie February Wedding At Charleston's William Aiken House2020-04-27T19:51:23+00:002024-03-29T06:12:54+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/dusty-blue-february-wedding-at-charlestons-william-aiken-house/<h2></h2>
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<p>Anna and Bobby flew in from New York City for their February Charleston wedding at the historic William Aiken House. They met eachother at university and chose Charleston because of familial ties, it's timeless beauty and the abundance of some of the most beautiful churches you will ever see. It is the Holy City afterall. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom black and white film portrait in front of charleston's american theater for william aiken house wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/anna-bobby-aiken/2002-anna-bobby-charleston-sc-william-aiken-wedding-catholic-mass-february-00457_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Anna and Bobby are both Catholic and had a full Catholic Mass for their wedding ceremony inside the beautiful and historic St Mary's Roman Catholic Church. It truly is one of the most beautiful churches in Charleston, adorned with beautiful woods and colorful murals from floor to ceiling. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom at alter of st marys roman catholic church in downtown charleston for black tie february wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/anna-bobby-aiken/2002-anna-bobby-charleston-sc-william-aiken-wedding-catholic-mass-february-00291_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><br/>Erica Peper from Peper Events put together an elegant and timeless affair fitting for a venue with so much charm and character, as the William Aiken House. It was a priveledge to work with her and photograph the beautiful decor, adorned with flowers from Fresh Weddings and Events. It's not an easy thing to do, to complement the bold and quirky colors of the Aiken house interior, but Erica and her team pulle it off so elegantly!</p>
<p><img alt="pink room interior of long wedding tables set up for dinner inside at the william aiken house in charleston south carolina" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/anna-bobby-aiken/2002-anna-bobby-charleston-sc-william-aiken-wedding-catholic-mass-february-00490_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Charleston Wedding Vendor Team for the William Aiken House Wedding</h2>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://peperevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://peperevents.com/">Peper Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/">https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://freshweddingsandevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://freshweddingsandevents.com/">Fresh Weddings and Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/">https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.pphgcharleston.com/venues/william-aiken-house/" target="_blank" title="https://www.pphgcharleston.com/venues/william-aiken-house/">The William Aiken House</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/pphgevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/pphgevents/">https://www.instagram.com/pphgevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Ceremony Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.sma.church/" target="_blank" title="http://www.sma.church/">St Mary's Church</a></span> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.lashesandlacecharleston.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.lashesandlacecharleston.com/">Lashes and Lace</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lashesandlacechs/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lashesandlacechs/">https://www.instagram.com/lashesandlacechs/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.eventworksrentals.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.eventworksrentals.com/">Event Works</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/eventworksrentals/">https://www.instagram.com/eventworksrentals/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals 2: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.snyderevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.snyderevents.com/">Snyder Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/">https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Lighting: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.lowcountryentertainmentsc.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.lowcountryentertainmentsc.com/">Lowcountry Entertainment</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/">https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/</a></span></p>
<p>Band: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.thefinesseband.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.thefinesseband.com/">Finesse Band</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/finessebandmusic/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/finessebandmusic/">https://www.instagram.com/finessebandmusic/</a></span></p>
<p>Transportation: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.lowcountryvalet.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.lowcountryvalet.com/">Lowcountry Valet</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryvalet/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryvalet/">https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryvalet/</a></span></p>
<p><img alt="lowcountry vintage bus transportation with bride and groom in front for film portrait at a william aiken house charleston wedding in february" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/anna-bobby-aiken/2002-anna-bobby-charleston-sc-william-aiken-wedding-catholic-mass-february-00381_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The William Aiken House has always been a favorite wedding venue of mine in Charleston South Carolina. It was a dream venue ever since I began my wedding photography career. So much so, that I planned my first ever editorial wedding shoot there. I fell in love with it's quirky, victorian charm and boldly painted walls. The garden oozes elegance at every corner, and you can't possibly get more traditionally Charleston and southern than a gigantic wrap around porch. The porch is perfect for seating wedding guests outside for dinner and the entire house can accomodate a large wedding of 300+ people - all with the charm of a more intimate venue because the dinner is partitioned off into rooms. </p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me For Your William Aiken House Charleston Wedding</h2>
<p>You should hire meas your Charleston SC wedding photographer for your William Aiken House wedding because I appreciate the charm of the house. I appreciate and am drawn to unique character in the people and places I photograph. Most photographers would be scared away by the boldly colored interior. They'd say that the colored walls reflect unwanted tint on the skin or that it's too close to the hustle and bustle of King Street. I find none of this to be true. I embrace it. I embrace the bold and colorful. I embrace the noise and the character of Downtown Charleston SC. That's why I live in this city and why I chose to live downtown. The William Aiken House, to me, is the quintessential Charleston Wedding Venue - certainly for a wedding venue downtown. Also, it's right next to the American Theater and we've all seen the Notebook. It's charming. The William Aiken House is one of my favorite wedding venues in Charleston and I'd love to tell you all about what I can do as your wedding photographer for your dowtown Charleston SC wedding. </p>
<p></p>
<p>If you'd like to see the fashion inspired bridal editorial I put together at the William Aiken House, check out the blog post below!</p>
<p></p>
<h3>Fashion Bridal Editorial on the Wedding Blog</h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/bridal-fashion-editorial-at-charlestons-historic-william-aiken-house/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/bridal-fashion-editorial-at-charlestons-historic-william-aiken-house/">Fashion Bridal Editorial at Charleston Wedding Venue - The William Aiken House</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Dusty Blue Wedding Theme</h3>
<p>Anna and Bobby's wedding colors consisted primarily of dusty blues, with complementing burgundies and golds for their February black tie wedding in Charleston SC. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston wedding stationary flat lay dusty blue wedding colors" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/anna-bobby-aiken/2002-anna-bobby-charleston-sc-william-aiken-wedding-catholic-mass-february-00001_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="charleston bride at the battery park downtown charleston sc for william aiken house february wedding with bridesmaids in dusty blue dresses" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/anna-bobby-aiken/2002-anna-bobby-charleston-sc-william-aiken-wedding-catholic-mass-february-00140_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>Cheers to this wildly happy couple and two of the kindest people I have yet had the opportunity to work with. Thanks for letting me be your Charleston wedding photographer. </p>
<p><img alt="downtown charleston wedding portrait on 35mm film with groom in black tie and bride in white dress before william aiken house reception" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/anna-bobby-aiken/2002-anna-bobby-charleston-sc-william-aiken-wedding-catholic-mass-february-00356_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="point and shoot film camera image on kodak p3200 at william aiken house wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/anna-bobby-aiken/2002-anna-bobby-charleston-sc-william-aiken-wedding-catholic-mass-february-00913_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>More Charleston SC Weddings on the Blog</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/chsweddings/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/chsweddings/">Charleston SC Weddings on the Brian D Smith Photography blog</a></span></p>
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<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Charleston Wedding Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Why an Elopement is the Perfect Excuse to Get Creative with Your Wedding Photos2020-04-08T13:57:46+00:002024-03-28T18:56:59+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/an-elopement-is-the-perfect-excuse-for-creative-wedding-photos/<p>An elopement, intimate or micro wedding doesn't have to mean you won't get all of the pretty photos. In fact, planning an elopement adventure for your charleston wedding, northern michigan wedding or destination wedding is the perfect opportunity to throw out traditions and have wedding photos that are uniquely yours. You can have a little weekend getawat and have your love, your wedding story, told in the way that you want it. It's an opporunity for a more personal wedding photography narative that will have all your friends wishing they had opted for a micro wedding or elopement instead.</p>
<p><img alt="weekend getaway elopement and micro wedding at south carolina wavering place with bride groom in fall with bikes" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00097_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2><span>What is an Elopement or Micro Wedding?</span></h2>
<p><span>That's the beauty of it. It can be whatever you want it to be. It's an opportunity to throw traditions to the wall, eliminate all of the messy logistics involved with hundreds of guests and create something unique that just focuses on you two as a couple and a few close family and friends. Maybe you were planning a big Charleston wedding and uncertain times have caused you to change course? Maybe you are having a destination wedding or a wedding on a small property in Northern Michigan and don't want to deal with the logistics of a big wedding? Perhaps you just want something more intimate and more focused on the two of you? Maybe you want to plan an elopement or intimate wedding just because you want something different. Any reason is respectable. You should do what you want to do for your wedding and not worry about what anyone else expects of you or what you feel like tradition suggests you do. If you plan to elope, please consider me to be your Charleston, Northern Michigan or destination elopement photographer. I value the different and unique in life, and I promise to tell your story in a way that uniquely reflects the two of you and your love. To see what your intimate elopement or micro wedding might look like, check out my blog post below!</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-elopement-wedding-at-south-carolinas-wavering-place/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-elopement-wedding-at-south-carolinas-wavering-place/">Fall Elopement and Micro Wedding at Wavering Place in South Carolina</a></span></p>
<p>This elopement and micro wedding inspiration editorial was featured twice on the fine art wedding publication - Ruffled Blog</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/">https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/micro-wedding-wavering-place/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/micro-wedding-wavering-place/">https://ruffledblog.com/micro-wedding-wavering-place/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="south carolina micro wedding tablescape with candle lit al fresco dinner at wavering place on kodak portra 800 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00278_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>Why are Micro Weddings on the Rise?</h3>
<p>It's no secret that there has been a bit of a shift in the wedding industry in the last 5 years. The elopement and intimate wedding has become increasingly popular, and you can hardly scroll through wedding photography images on instagram without seeing content from a micro wedding or adventure or destination elopement. Check out this blog post from my friend Haley at Willow and Oak Events for <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.willowandoakevents.com/10-reasons-microweddings-are-on-the-rise/" target="_blank" title="https://www.willowandoakevents.com/10-reasons-microweddings-are-on-the-rise/">10 Reasons Micro Weddings are on the Rise</a></span></p>
<h2>Where Can I have Brian D Smith Photography be My Elopement or Intimate Wedding Photographer?</h2>
<p>Anywhere! I will travel anywhere in chase of a story. I love to travel, and have visited over 20 countries in the last 3 years and have traveled a good bit of the United States as well. Imagine hosting your intimate wedding on a small property that has a lot of personal setiniment to you? Imagine you grew up visiting a small lake cottage in Traverse City Michigan and wanted to plan your Northern Michigan wedding reception there? What if you are from Charleston South Carolina, but always dreamed of getting married in Paris by the eiffel tower? You can do anything you want. Trust me. I'll travel anywhere in the world to be your elopement photographer. </p>
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<h2>Creative Elopement and Micro Wedding Photography Ideas</h2>
<h3>Go Explore a New City, New Destination, and Have Your Adventure Photographed</h3>
<p>Some of my favorite wedding photos are from unplanned moments. The best wedding photos capture your personality, so why not do an activity where you personality really shines? You could travel to a new destination, walk around and explore, and I'll photograph your interactions. I'll be there to document your adventure, only interjecting when I see some beautiful light or backdrop for that breathtaking wedding photo! Just be as you are. Be playful. Run around. Ride bikes. Have your dog in your wedding photographs!</p>
<p><img alt="south carolina wavering place documentary elopement with couple and dog on black and white film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00089_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="couple riding bikes on dirt road for documentary micro wedding and elopement photograph in south carolina" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00110_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Have a Relaxing Weekend Getaway at a Resort</h3>
<p>Want something a bit more relaxed? Plan a quiet weekend getaway for your elopement or micro wedding. You can spend all day friday just relaxing by the pool, cozying up with a picnic in the vineyards or having a romantic dinner. Then, have your wedding ceremony on Saturday and a quiet brunch on sunday. I'll be there to photograph it all. Think of all of the beautiful moments for artistic and creative wedding photographs we would have in an entire weekend. Think about how relaxing it would be to get rid of the pressure of having so many wedding photos needing to be taken in just a single day. Being a documentary wedding photographer is something about this profession that I find most creatively inspiring, and I think you'll love the photographs you get from your micro wedding or elopement. Check out these images from a weekend getaway elopement at Hotel Domestique in Traveler's Rest South Carolina. </p>
<h4>Relax by the Pool at Hotel Domestique</h4>
<p><img alt="weekend elopement with couple hanging out by pool at hotel domestique south carolina during micro wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-34_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride picks flowers by pool during weekend micro wedding getaway elopement at hotel domestique near asheville NC" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-19_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="elopement photograph with couple enjoying champagne by pool during getaway micro wedding at hotel domestique near greenville south carolina" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-26_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h4>Full Weekend Getaway Elopement Inspiration at Hotel Domestique, Here</h4>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/chartreuse-in-tuscany-an-italian-inspired-elopement-weekend-hotel-domestique/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/chartreuse-in-tuscany-an-italian-inspired-elopement-weekend-hotel-domestique/">Italian Inspired Weekend Getaway Wedding in the Hills of Asheville North Carolina</a></span></p>
<p>Also seen on the fine art wedding publication Magnolia Rouge</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.magnoliarouge.com/inspiration/vintage-european-elopement-inspiration-in-the-hills-of-asheville/" target="_blank" title="https://www.magnoliarouge.com/inspiration/vintage-european-elopement-inspiration-in-the-hills-of-asheville/">https://www.magnoliarouge.com/inspiration/vintage-european-elopement-inspiration-in-the-hills-of-asheville/</a></span></p>
<h4>Have a Picnic in The Vineyards</h4>
<p>You could have a small picnic lunch among the vineyards during your Asheville North Carolina elopement. Just be yourself, eat amazing wine and cheese and I'll be there as your Asheville Elopement Photographer.</p>
<p><img alt="elopement picnic in the vineyards photographed at hotel domestique during spring elopement in south carolina on kodak film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-83_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h4>A Elopement Ceremony Overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains</h4>
<p>Hotel Domestique is a wedding venue in Traveler's Rest South Carolina with a breathtaking view of the blue ridge mountains. Can you imagine a more beautiful backdrop for your elopement or intimate wedding ceremony? The only ingredients you need are your love and a view or location that you find inspiring or relaxing. Are you wanting a styled elopement or micro-wedding? Hire a wedding planner that is going to make your wildest dreams come true, anywhere in the world. I highly recommend Haley from Willow and Oak Events. She loves to travel and has a passion for personal, meaningful design. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.willowandoakevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.willowandoakevents.com/">https://www.willowandoakevents.com/</a></span></p>
<p><img alt="blue ridge mountains backdrop with hotel domestique intimate wedding and elopement ceremony with couple in vintage wedding gown and suit" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-141_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="wedding couple during destination elopement photographed in front of blue ridge mountains on kodak film " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-180_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Get Married on a Hiking Adventure and Have Breathtaking Mountaintop Elopement Photographs </h3>
<p>Are you an adventurous soul? Do you love to hike? Do you love nature and the outdoors? Why not incorporate that into your destination elopmenent or intimate wedding ceremony? Most of my own personal travels are planned around amazing hikes and beautiful sunset vistas and I would love to haul my camera gear up to the highest peak to be your destination elopement photographer. Whether you live in Charleston South Carolina or Traverse City Michigan, there are beautiful vistas and backdrops to be found everywhere. Not inspired by where you live? Let's travel to Iceland! Let's travel to the Canary islands of Spain! Imagine getting married against these backdrops. </p>
<h4>Pick a Foreign Country for Your Destination Elopement</h4>
<p>Where have you traveled to that you love? Where have you always dreamed to travel to? What better time to make it happen than on the most important day of your life? Let's plan your european destination wedding. Let's plan your detsination wedding in Iceland. There are no wrong answers. There is nowhere too exotic. If it's your dream, let's make it happen. </p>
<p><img alt="Iceland mountain backdrop view perfect for destination elopement on kodak portra 400 medium format film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/2017-film-scandanavia-195_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="canary islands gran canaria mountain top view perfect for destination elopement or travel wedding on kodak 35mm film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/snowdonia-mallorca-canary-kodak-film-ektar-portra-leica-gf670-41_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h4>Hike to the Top of a Mountain for Your Elopement Photography</h4>
<p><img alt="bride hiking up mountain in black dress on blue ridge mountains for destination elopement" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-craggy-gardens-asehville-mountain-sunset-styled-bridal-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride on top of blue ridge mountains for bridal portrait during adventure elopement in asheville north carolina" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-craggy-gardens-asehville-mountain-sunset-styled-bridal-42_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="adventure elopement in asehville north carolina blue ridge mountains by destination film wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-craggy-gardens-asehville-mountain-sunset-styled-bridal-47_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride on top of mountain destination north carolina adventure elopement black and white 35mm film and black dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1906-craggy-gardens-asehville-mountain-sunset-styled-bridal-60_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Incorporate a Hobby or Passion Into Your Wedding or Elopement Photographs</h3>
<p>Do you have any hobbies or shared interests between the two of you that you would like to incorporate into your micro wedding or elopement? An intimate wedding or elopement provides the perfect opportunity to plan a wedding around exactly what makes you love eachother. Maybe you both enjoy photography and want to bring your own cameras to photograph eachother! I highly encourage that and will incorporate that into your story as your charleston elopement photographer or destsination elopement photographer. </p>
<p><img alt="groom with leica m-a 35mm film camera as couple photographs eachother during destination micro wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00094_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride photographs groom on vintage film camera during south carolina wavering place micro wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00093_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="groom leaning against tree during destination micro wedding on black and white film near charleston south carolina at wavering place" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00096_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Plan an Al Fresco Candlelit Dinner for your Micro Wedding Reception</h3>
<p>Not having a hundred plus guests allows you to plan a more intimate dinner for your micro wedding. Consider having a small al fresco dinner, lit by candles, underneath the stars with only close family and friends. Al Fresco dinners make for beautiful documentary wedding photographs and the intimacy of the moment will allow you to focus more on those that are close to you. It also allows your wedding photographer to focus more on those you love, and you'll likely get more pictures of those close to you and more opportunity for candid photographs. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom kissing at al fresco dinner tablescape during south carolina micro wedding at wavering place" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00321_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Plan a Relaxed Wedding and Hire the Right Photographer and Planner to Make it Your Dream Wedding</h3>
<p>Weddings are a team sport. I rely on the couple to be themselves, to be in love, to be adventurous, just as they rely on me to work my hardest as their eloepement and micro wedding photographer. I also rely a lot on the creativity of wedding planners, florists and caterers to handle the other details of the day and make sure that your intimate wedding has all the style, grace and good food as the elaborate, large wedding affairs. </p>
<p><img alt="micro wedding ceremony at south carolina wavering place wedding venue groom in green tux bride in blush dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00231_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why Plan an Intimate Micro Wedding or Elopement</h2>
<h3>Wedding Size Does Not Equate to Wedding Beauty or Wedding Enjoyment</h3>
<p>The size of the wedding in no way equates to the beauty and at the end of the day, it is your love that is most important. There is no right or wrong way to plan a wedding. If you truly want a big wedding, you should plan a big wedding. If you only want a small wedding, plan a small wedding! Coronavirus has impacted a lot in the wedding industry and if you have concerns over whether or not your big wedding might get affected by another tragedy in the future, maybe consider planning a micro wedding or elopement in your city or destination. A smaller wedding can mean less to change in the event of a tragedy. All weddings are beautiful, so make the right decision for yourself, but I highly recommend talking through all options with your wedding planner, wedding photographer and other wedding vendors to figure out what the best fit is for you!</p>
<h3>You Can Still Book Your Dream Wedding Venue for a Micro Wedding</h3>
<p>Did you know that most of your favorite wedding venues in Charleston SC, Northern Michigan and Desdination wedding venues host micro weddings and elopements? You even have the option to host your wedding on weekdays! Many of my favorite Charleston South Carolina wedding venues have packages for smaller weddings. </p>
<h4>Charleston South Carolina wedding venue Middleton Place offers elopement and micro wedding packages</h4>
<p><img alt="charleston south carolina wedding venue middleton place in fall on film by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00564_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom walk toward lake at middleton place in charleston south carolina during fall wedding portraits on film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1911-charleston-november-middleton-place-fall-wedding-sam-david-film-00531_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h4>South Carolina wedding venue Wavering Place offers elopement and micro wedding packages</h4>
<p><img alt="south carolina wedding venue wavering place in columbia during fall on kodak portra 800 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00031_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom recessional cheer during micro wedding at wavering place by charleston wedding photographer brian d smith photography on kodak film" height="900" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/.thumbnails/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00236_web.jpg/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00236_web-1200x900.jpg" width="1200"/></p>
<h3>Your Dream Wedding Vendors Probably Offer Elopement and Micro Wedding Packages as Well</h3>
<p>Did you fall in love with the creativity of a florist, or the romantic and thoughtful design of a wedding planner, or the food of a particular caterer? A smaller wedding doesn't mean you don't get to have all of the pretty things and tasty food. You can still have the same amazing wedding vendor team to plan, design, coordinate, photograph and feed your micro wedding. Most of your wedding vendors would love the opportunity to plan something on a weekday or plan something outside of the box or even in a foreign country! Ask your vendors about what micro wedding and elopement packages they might offer and explain to them the vision you have for your inimtate affair and see how they can help you execute it!</p>
<h2>Why Hire Brian D Smith Photography as your Micro Wedding or Elopement Photographer</h2>
<p>I am based as a Charleston Wedding Photographer and Northern Michigan Wedding Photographer but I travel a lot for work and personal reasons. There isn't a destination I won't travel for you to photograph your intimate wedding, adventure elopement or micro wedding ceremony. If you think you have an interesting love story to tell, and I promise you do, hire the wedding photographer who is inspired to tell stories. Telling stories is the reason I fell in love with photographing weddings. I adore portraiture, and the beauty that is making someone feel great about themselves, but it's the story and the art of storytelling that keeps me motivated to work so hard for my couples. If you take a look at my portfoli, you will see that I like to create unique works and none of my wedding photographs look the same. I am always looking to create something unique and never before seen. Wouldn't you want a photographer who inspired to create something different when you are planning a wedding that is so unique and so special to you? </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portfolio/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portfolio/">https://briandsmithphotography.com/portfolio/</a></span></p>
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<p><img alt="ethereal studio bridal portrait in charleston south carolina on kodak film with flowing dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/00004-2003-charleston-studio-film-kodak-portra-800-fine-art-bridal-portrait-wedding-gown-helen-00001_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom in pool for destination wedding charleston engagement photos on black and white film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/00022-sam-david-daniel-island-charleston-engagement-film-73_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="bride on polaroid during charleston south carolina bridal boudoir photography session" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/elopement-creative-wedding-photos/00020-wingate-plantation-charleston-bridal-boudoir-kodak-p160-film-1-153_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Bridal Fashion Editorial at Charleston's Historic William Aiken House2019-12-12T11:44:29+00:002024-03-28T18:17:12+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/bridal-fashion-editorial-at-charlestons-historic-william-aiken-house/<h4></h4>
<p>Most of my inspiration from my wedding work comes from fashion styling and photography. I discovered a lookbook for a korean wedding dress designer and was instantly inspired. The spread felt high fashion, yet timelessly romantic. I wanted to create something similar, but with a focus on utilizing the colors of one of Charleston, South Carolina's most unique wedding venues, The William Aiken House. I planned the colors and mood of the shoot around this house, and matched the colors of the the shoot's segments to that of the house. My other focus for the shoot was creating something beautiful, yet entirely unique for the Charleston market. Charleston tends to be light bright and beautiful and my style has a bit more grit and mood. I wanted to marry my love of fashion portraiture with that of my bridal/wedding work. I selected two Carol Hannah gowns for the shoot because of her roots in Charleston and because, quite frankly, they were works of art. They matched the color palette of the editorial and had the modern dramatic touches that you'd expect from a designer gown. All images were shot on 35mm film, my favorite medium. </p>
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<h4>Thanks to this wonderful team of vendors!</h4>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://peperevents.com/" target="_blank" title="http://peperevents.com/">Peper Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/">https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/"></a></span>Florals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://freshweddingsandevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://freshweddingsandevents.com/">Fresh Weddings and Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/">https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.holycityhospitality.com/historic-rice-mill/" target="_blank" title="https://www.holycityhospitality.com/historic-rice-mill/">The William Aiken House</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/">https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/">Wild Ivory Beauty</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/">https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/</a></span></p>
<p>Accessories: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://modelbride.com/" target="_blank" title="https://modelbride.com/">Model Bride</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/">https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair Pieces: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/frolainbrides/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/frolainbrides/">Frolain Bride</a></span></p>
<p>Gown Boutique: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.maddisonrowsouth.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.maddisonrowsouth.com/">Maddison Row South</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/maddisonrowsouth/">https://www.instagram.com/maddisonrowsouth/</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/maddisonrowsouth/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/maddisonrowsouth/"></a></span></p>
<p><span>Gown Designer: </span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.carol-hannah.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.carol-hannah.com/">Carol Hannah</a></span><span> / </span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/carolhannahbridal/">https://www.instagram.com/carolhannahbridal/</a></span></p>A Romantic Charleston Spring Wedding with Bold Styling at the Historic Rice Mill2019-12-02T22:03:35+00:002024-03-28T18:21:10+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/a-romantic-charleston-wedding-at-the-historic-rice-mill/<h4>FEATURED IN PRINT IN THE FALL ISSUE OF CHARLESTON WEDDINGS MAGAZINE!</h4>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://charlestonweddingsmag.com/wedding_announcement/jessica_diaz_casey_council" target="_blank" title="https://charlestonweddingsmag.com/wedding_announcement/jessica_diaz_casey_council">Charleston Weddings Magazine Publication - Jessica and Casey</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<p>I'm so thrilled to be able to share Jessica and Casey's beautiful May wedding at the Historic Rice Mill in Charleston South Carolina. Their wedding was a mix of classical Charleston and unique style and bold color. I met Jessica and Casey for coffee over a year before their wedding date and they mentioned that they reached out to me because I had people of color on my instagram. This truly meant a lot to me. It means so much to a photographer to be hired with intention. Diversity makes this world a beautiful place, and I strongly believe the same goes for photography. I want to give a huge shoutout to Charleston Weddings Magazine for celebrating Jessica and Casey's wedding in print in their October issue. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Most importantly, I want to thank Jessica and Casey. I have admired them and their love story from the very beginning. I'd be hard pressed to come across more sincere people with a more genuine love and connection. From cheering eachother on and showering one another in complements, to tear jerking hand written vows, their love story was an absolute priveledge to document. </p>
<p></p>
<h4>Thanks to this wonderful team of vendors!</h4>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.ellenicoleevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.ellenicoleevents.com/">Elle Nicole Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ellenicoleevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/ellenicoleevents/">https://www.instagram.com/ellenicoleevents/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/"></a></span>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.wearepetaloso.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.wearepetaloso.com/">Petaloso</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wearepetaloso/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wearepetaloso/">https://www.instagram.com/wearepetaloso/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.holycityhospitality.com/historic-rice-mill/" target="_blank" title="https://www.holycityhospitality.com/historic-rice-mill/">The Historic Rice Mill</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/">https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.mycharlestonweddinghair.com/index2.php#!/HOME" target="_blank" title="https://www.mycharlestonweddinghair.com/index2.php#!/HOME">Paper Dolls Hair </a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/">https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/</a></span></p>
<p>DJ: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://djmiketech.com/" target="_blank" title="https://djmiketech.com/">DJ Mike Tech</a></span><a href="https://djmiketech.com/" target="_blank" title="https://djmiketech.com/"></a> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/djmiketech/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/djmiketech/">https://www.instagram.com/djmiketech/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.428main.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.428main.com/">428 Main</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/428main/">https://www.instagram.com/428main/</a></span></p>
<p>Videographer: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.hisandherscreative.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.hisandherscreative.com/">His and Hers Creative</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/hisandherscreative/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/hisandherscreative/">https://www.instagram.com/hisandherscreative/</a></span></p>
<p>Deserts: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://theholycitycupcakes.com/index.html" target="_blank" title="https://theholycitycupcakes.com/index.html">Holy City Cupcakes</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/theholycitycupcakes/">https://www.instagram.com/theholycitycupcakes/</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/theholycitycupcakes/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/theholycitycupcakes/"></a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<p></p>
<p></p>Preview of Sam and Davids Colorful Middleton Place Wedding2019-11-27T19:16:11+00:002024-03-28T19:17:31+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/preview-of-sam-and-davids-colorful-middleton-place-wedding/<p>Sam and David, this preview is for you. You two were the most wonderful clients from the very beginning. You let me do my thing, you let me try artistic things, and I greatly appreciate that. Congratulations and I can't wait to see how your lives unfold. </p>
<h4>VENDORS</h4>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://fabulousfete.com/" target="_blank" title="http://fabulousfete.com/">Fabulous Fete</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/">https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/</a></span></p>
<p>Hotel: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/usa/sc/charleston/belmond-charleston-place/" target="_blank" title="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/usa/sc/charleston/belmond-charleston-place/">The Belmond - Charleston Place</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/belmondcharlestonplace/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/belmondcharlestonplace/">https://www.instagram.com/belmondcharlestonplace/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/"></a></span>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.beardedflorist.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.beardedflorist.com/">Bearded Florist</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/">https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.middletonplace.org/host-an-event/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.middletonplace.org/host-an-event/weddings/">Middleton Place</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/">https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/">Wild Ivory Beauty</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/">https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/</a></span></p>
<p>Band: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/">https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.thefrencheclectic.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.thefrencheclectic.com/">The French Eclectic</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/">https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.snyderevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.snyderevents.com/">Snyder Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/">https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://eventhausrentals.com/" target="_blank" title="https://eventhausrentals.com/">Event Haus</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/">https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/</a></span></p>
<p>Lighting: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.lowcountryentertainmentsc.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.lowcountryentertainmentsc.com/">Lowcountry Entertainment</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/">https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/</a></span></p>
<p>Cake: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.abcdcakes.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.abcdcakes.com/">ABCD Cakes</a> </span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/">https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/</a></span></p>
<p>Transportation: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.lowcountrylooptrolley.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.lowcountrylooptrolley.com/">Lowcountry Trolley</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/">https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/</a></span></p>Fall Elopement Wedding at South Carolina's Wavering Place2019-11-12T11:50:11+00:002024-03-28T18:18:35+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-elopement-wedding-at-south-carolinas-wavering-place/<h2>FEATURED ON RUFFLED BLOG!</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/micro-wedding-wavering-place/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/micro-wedding-wavering-place/">Ruffled Blog - Autumn Southern Elopement at Wavering Place</a></span></p>
<p>The couple arrives on their bicycles, racing playfully down the avenue of trees<br/>and lush vegetation. Their dog skips eagerly beside them. They sit beneath<br/>the ancient oak for a while, taking in the day and the beauty of the morning.<br/>Togetherness. He plays his guitar as she watches with a joyous smile, then<br/>wanders toward the forest to forage. They swap tales of true love, scribbling the<br/>stories on handtorn paper to share at each place setting later.</p>
<p><img alt="wavering place proposal film kodak tri-x zeiss tlr south carolina wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00024_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="wavering place dog bikes film contax 645 portra 800 film wedding elopement proposal" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00074_web.jpg" width="600"/><br/>As afternoon sets in, they stumble upon an old house in the woods and<br/>climb through the window, exploring the historic corners inside. They find a<br/>countertop next to a window pouring with light and empty their basket of fruits<br/>+ berries, picked from the gardens earlier that day. Together, they prepare<br/>miniature fruit pies for the dinner later on and playfully soak up the moments<br/>surrounded by flour and light.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img alt="elopement engagement contax 645 charleston wavering place pies love kodak portra 800" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00137_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>To see the first half of this intimate weekend elopement, and the proposal leading up to their autumn affair, please see our other feature on Ruffled Blog!</h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/">Ruffled Blog - Autumn Proposal at Wavering Place</a></span></p>
<h2>Shop These Fall Southern Earth Toned Engagement Looks on Ruffled Blog</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/fall-winter-engagement-outfits/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/fall-winter-engagement-outfits/">Ruffled Blog - Fall Engagement Inspiration</a></span></p>
<p><br/>LauraLee traipses up the curved stairwell to get ready. Her thick braid falls into<br/>a loose natural wave, and she adds a touch of makeup to her freckled face -<br/>dash of rouge, a soft lash. She dons a silky apricot gown that flows behind her,<br/>billowing in the brisk fall air. Meanwhile, Taylor changes into wool blend pants<br/>with a sage green hue and white shirt.<br/>She carries a bouquet of foraged blooms in muted spice tones, found earlier in<br/>the day along the grounds. They wed before an arch of wild florals in autumnal<br/>shades, their parents standing by. The sun starts to set as together they set the<br/>table - bread, honey, berries, figs, cheeses and charcuterie. An artisan feast.<br/>Upon each handmade ceramic plate sits a jagged slice of wicker upon which<br/>hand torn cloth paper is scribbled in natural pigment from berries showcasing<br/>their guests’ names. LauraLee stretches into a cream knit sweater over her<br/>dress as their parents start to read about the classic love stories shared at their<br/>place settings. They toast to spontenaity, serendipity and love as the autumn air<br/>fills with their laughter and song.</p>
<p><img alt="wavering place autumn fall kodak portra 800 contax 645 film wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00030_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Charleston South Carolina Wedding Vendor Team</h2>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.willowandoakevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.willowandoakevents.com/">Willow and Oak Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/willow.and.oak.events/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/willow.and.oak.events/">https://www.instagram.com/willow.and.oak.events/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.philofloral.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.philofloral.com/">Philo Floral</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/philofloral/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/philofloral/">https://www.instagram.com/philofloral/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://waveringplace.com/" target="_blank" title="https://waveringplace.com/">Wavering Place</a> </span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/waveringplace/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/waveringplace/">https://www.instagram.com/waveringplace/</a></span></p>
<p>Paper Goods: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://littlenorthcompany.com/" target="_blank" title="https://littlenorthcompany.com/">Little North Company</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/littlenorthcompany/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/littlenorthcompany/">https://www.instagram.com/littlenorthcompany/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.contoursandcurls.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.contoursandcurls.com/">Contours and Curls</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/">https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/</a></span></p>
<p>Gown: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.jennyyoo.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.jennyyoo.com/">Jenny Yoo</a></span> via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://bellabridesmaids.com/" target="_blank" title="https://bellabridesmaids.com/">Bella Bridesmaids</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jennyyoonyc/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/jennyyoonyc/">https://www.instagram.com/jennyyoonyc/</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bellabridesmaids/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/bellabridesmaids/">https://www.instagram.com/bellabridesmaids/</a></span></p>
<p>Bride's Sweater: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.stories.com/en_usd/index.html" target="_blank" title="https://www.stories.com/en_usd/index.html">& Other Stories</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/andotherstories/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/andotherstories/">https://www.instagram.com/andotherstories/</a></span></p>
<p>Bride's Autumn Attire: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://hackwithdesignhouse.com/" target="_blank" title="https://hackwithdesignhouse.com/">Hackwith Design House</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/hackwithdesign/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/hackwithdesign/">https://www.instagram.com/hackwithdesign/</a></span></p>
<p>Groom's Fashion: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.asos.com/us/" target="_blank" title="https://www.asos.com/us/">ASOS</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/asos/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/asos/">https://www.instagram.com/asos/</a></span></p>
<p>Pies: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.vanillaandthebean.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.vanillaandthebean.com/">Vanilla and the Bean</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vanillaandthebean/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/vanillaandthebean/">https://www.instagram.com/vanillaandthebean/</a></span></p>
<p>Rings: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.sofiakaman.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.sofiakaman.com/">Sofia Kaman</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sofiakaman/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/sofiakaman/">https://www.instagram.com/sofiakaman/</a></span></p>
<p>Tabletop Pieces: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.farmhousepottery.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.farmhousepottery.com/">Farmhouse Pottery</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/farmhousepottery/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/farmhousepottery/">https://www.instagram.com/farmhousepottery/</a></span></p>
<p>Linens: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://magiclinen.com/" target="_blank" title="https://magiclinen.com/">Magic Linen</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/magiclinen/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/magiclinen/">https://www.instagram.com/magiclinen/</a></span></p>
<p>Napkins: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.silkandwillow.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.silkandwillow.com/">Silk and Willow</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/silkandwillow/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/silkandwillow/">https://www.instagram.com/silkandwillow/</a></span></p>
<p>Bicycles: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.outspokinbicycles.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.outspokinbicycles.com/">Outspokin'</a> </span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/outspokincola/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/outspokincola/">https://www.instagram.com/outspokincola/</a></span></p>
<p>Models: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.directionsusa.com/portfolio/women/fashion/1330375/kelsey-chambers" target="_blank" title="https://www.directionsusa.com/portfolio/women/fashion/1330375/kelsey-chambers">Kelsey Chambers</a></span> and <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.directionsusa.com/portfolio/men/fashion/874222/dylan-gibhardt" target="_blank" title="https://www.directionsusa.com/portfolio/men/fashion/874222/dylan-gibhardt">Dylan Gibhart</a></span> from <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.directionsusa.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.directionsusa.com/">Directions USA</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="wavering place house autumn fall kodak portra 800 fall film contax 645 southern wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00031_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="wavering place carriage house southern charleston film elopement wedding contax 645 kodak portra 800" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00036_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="fall trees wavering place southern wedding venue columbia south carolina kodak portra 800 film photographer" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00029_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="wavering place south carolina wedding elopement venue film canon eos 1v kodak portra 400" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00037_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
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<h2><span></span>Why Wavering Place is a Favorite South Carolina Venue to Photograph</h2>
<p>Wavering place has history. It has a story. To me, that is the most inspiring aspect wedding site and makes it one of South Carolina's most beautiful wedding venues. I love it when the story of the venue is as romantic as that of the couple exchanging their vows on their wedding day. The venue has history and the grounds are sprawling with endless locations to photograph. Greenery is a plenty and it looks beautiful in every single wedding season. If you look through the photographs, below, I think you will see just how beautifully it photographs. If you are looking for a venue for your Charleston or Columbia South Carolina wedding, look no further than wavering place. </p>
<p></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me To Photograph Your Wavering Place Wedding or Elopement</h2>
<p>I prefer to let the images speak for themselves, and I think they do in this romantic wavering south carolina micro-wedding / elopement. I was inspired to create something beautiful from the moment I stepped on the property and spoke with the owner. She spoke poetically about what the venue means to her family, and it is this personal touch that I think makes it the perfect southern wedding destination. Plus, it's super peaceful and provides an intimacy that is perfect for weddings - small and large. As a South Carolina wedding photographer, every couple and every wedding is an opportunity to create something artistic. Hire me to photograph your south carolina or charleston wedding and let's create some art and tell a story that is unique to you.</p>
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<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>Chartreuse In Tuscany an Italian Inspired Elopement Weekend at Hotel Domestique2019-10-31T13:09:55+00:002024-03-28T18:22:26+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/chartreuse-in-tuscany-an-italian-inspired-elopement-weekend-hotel-domestique/<h2>SOUTH CAROLINA WEEKEND ELOPEMENT FEATURED ON MAGNOLIA ROUGE! </h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.magnoliarouge.com/inspiration/vintage-european-elopement-inspiration-in-the-hills-of-asheville/" target="_blank" title="https://www.magnoliarouge.com/inspiration/vintage-european-elopement-inspiration-in-the-hills-of-asheville/">Magnolia Rouge - Vintage European Inspired Elopement Inspiration in the Hills of Asheville</a></span></p>
<p>I had a vision to bring vintage, timeless European romance to the southern United States. The styling would be reminiscent of a more traditional era, yet retain the elements of sophisticated dress that's commonplace at European weddings. I expanded my search outside of my native Charleston wedding destination to find a wedding venue with a European flair. I found the Italian inspired Hotel Domestique and planned the entire shoot, with it as my aesthetic muse. It's most important for me to tell a story when I put together creative projects. That's why I decided on a weekend elopepment as the storyboard. It would take place in stages, reflecting a casual time away with all the intimacy of true love echoed in playful banter and sun-drenched relaxation. From poolside lounging to a picnic among the vineyard vines, and culminating in a sunset ceremony, I wanted the focus to be on the couple. It was meant to feel as if my presence as the photographer wasn't known. This helps keep the focus on the story and the true chemistry between these once total strangers. </p>
<h2>South and North Carolina Elopement Editorial Team</h2>
<p>Photography: <a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></p>
<p>Venue: <a href="http://hoteldomestique.com/" target="_blank" title="http://hoteldomestique.com/">Hotel Domestique</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hotel_domestique/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/hotel_domestique/">https://www.instagram.com/hotel_domestique/</a></p>
<p>Florals: <a href="http://www.laurelcreekflorals.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.laurelcreekflorals.com/">Laurel Creek Florals</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/laurelcreekflorals/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/laurelcreekflorals/">https://www.instagram.com/laurelcreekflorals/</a></p>
<p>Hair and Makeup: <a href="https://www.emilydawnmakeup.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.emilydawnmakeup.com/">Emily Dawn Hair and Makeup</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/emilydawnhmu/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/emilydawnhmu/">https://www.instagram.com/emilydawnhmu/</a></p>
<p>Pottery: <a href="https://eastfork.com/" target="_blank" title="https://eastfork.com/">East Fork Pottery</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eastforkpottery/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/eastforkpottery/">https://www.instagram.com/eastforkpottery/</a></p>
<p>Models: <a href="https://www.sterlingstreetactor.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.sterlingstreetactor.com/">Sterling Street</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/">Christi Garland</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/">https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sterlingstreet/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/sterlingstreet/">https://www.instagram.com/sterlingstreet/</a></p>
<p>Dress: Vintage <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sustainablestylegvl/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/sustainablestylegvl/">Sustainable Style Greenville</a></p>
<p>Groom Styling: Vintage <a href="https://www.brooksbrothers.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.brooksbrothers.com/">Brooks Brothers</a> and <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.jcrew.com/">J Crew</a></p>
<p><img alt="asheville hotel domestique elopement wedding vineyard summer film contax 645" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-83_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The shoot came together in stages, thanks entirely to the creative team we assembled. Kendra, from Laurel Creek florals is an experienced wedding and arrangement florist who grows her own flowers on her farm outside of Greenville. She was inspired by seasonal blooms and hand dyed silk ribbons, with a continuous aspiration for and experimentation with new color palettes. Prior to the shoot she sent me images of Chartreuse ribbons and matching florals. I was at first a skeptic. The color was bold, and unconventional for the wedding industry. I trusted her vision, and it instantly became my favorite detail of the entire shoot. Christi was my female model, and my styling companion. I met up with her a day prior to the shoot and we scoured thrift stores, her own personal wardrobe, and vintage pieces from her Greenville based Sustainable Style to put the finishing touches on the wardrobe and picnic stylings. The pièce de résistance was her mother's vintage, hand sewn wedding dress which she stumbled upon days prior the shoot. The moment she tried the dress on, the shoot felt complete, and I knew that we'd successful carried out the vision I had been dreaming about for months. Emily Dawn created 3 distinct and effortlessly perfect hair and makeup looks to put the final touches on our three elopement vignettes. She paired the perfect rosy cheek and lips to accent the bold yellows by the pool. She created a soft, and playfully charming ponytail and red lip to bring casual elegance to our countryside picnic. Finally, a brilliant updo with her own exclamation of "my best updo yet" was a tall order to pair with such a dress, but again the creation was as magical as the sunset light catching the loose curls draped from either side. Sterling, a Greenville based actor, was our male model and the playful chemistry generator that truly made the shoot feel like an elopement between two smitten lovers. He told stories by the picnic of vacations to European chateaus in the south of Italy, eliciting giggles from their believable prose. He carried an infectious smile that proved contagious, even from behind my camera. He was styled with vintage finds, my own personal wardrobe and pieces from his own closet and signature garb.</p>
<p><img alt="hotel domestique elopement wedding photography contax 645 portra 400 film " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-180_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>What I love About Hotel Domestique as a South Carolina Wedding Venue</h2>
<p>A special thanks is due to the lovely venue, Hotel Domestique in Traveler's Rest South Carolina. Sarah was a wonderful host, and allowed us all the time and space we needed to piece together our vision. It is truly a unique, and rare destination tucked away in the mountains of Traveler's rest between Greenville and Asheville. Hotel Domestique is large enough to host big weddings but it's remote location gives it a very intimate feel, perfect for weddings and elopements alike. The venue is inspired by italian vineyards and it is this aesthetic that makes it unlike any other wedding venue in South Carolina. It features a sprawling inn and a large back patio with a fountain that overlooks the vineyard and blue ridge mountains. It is one of the most beautiful wedding reception spaces I have ever had the pleasure to photograph.</p>
<p><img alt="hotel domestique south carolina wedding and elopement venue back patio with italian architecture in blue ridge mountains" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-23_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="hotel domestique bride and groom in vintage wedding dress and suit during south carolina wedding elopement featuring old world italian design" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-167_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p>Last but not least, I'd like to thank East Fork pottery and the beautiful coincidence that led me to them. I'd followed them for some time and long admired their branding, artistic creations and social media styling. Leaving a vintage shop in Asheville, 2 days before the shoot, I happened to walk by their downtown shop and noticed their seasonal color was a chartreuse green. I knew it was meant to be and they graciously lent me some of their handmade pottery to put the finishing touch on our romantic picnic.</p>
<p>Everything came together to tell a story: Chartreuse in Tuscany - Vintage European Elopement Inspiration in the Hills of Asheville.</p>
<p></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me For That Venue</h2>
<p>I sought out Hotel Domestique intentionally as a south carolina wedding and elopement venue because I was completely enamored with and inspired by the european archicteture and styling. It had this old world, romantic charm that I just couldn't find at any other charleston, asheville or columbia wedding venue. Hire a photographer that is inspired by where they shoot. Hire a photographer who will be so enthusiastic and excited to photograph your south carolina wedding at Hotel Domestique. This shoot was a dream and a beautiful change of pace for a Charleston wedding photographer and I truly can't wait to photograph another elopement or wedding at this lovely european venue. Also, I just really really love the Blue Ridge Mountains!</p>
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<p><img alt="One of south carolina and north carolinas best wedding venues hotel domestique overlooking the blue ridge mountains with vintage fashion bride and groom during ceremony" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-141_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p>To see more inspiring elopement content, check out my Wavering Place South Carolina Elopement that was featured on Ruffled Blog!</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-elopement-wedding-at-south-carolinas-wavering-place/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-elopement-wedding-at-south-carolinas-wavering-place/">Wavering Place Intimate Fall Wedding Elopement</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Perfect Summer Weather for a Northern Michigan Wedding at The Homestead Glen Arbor2019-10-03T18:44:40+00:002024-03-28T18:18:28+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/perfect-summer-weather-for-a-northern-michigan-wedding-at-the-homestead-glen-arbor/<p>Mark and Elizabeth got married at The Homestead in Glen Arbor on a perfect Northern Michigan August day. In so many ways, they were my ideal clients. They were a joy to be around, expressed themselves to me and to eachother, and let me be my creative self. They put their trust in me, and that always makes for a beautiful reltationship that translates so well to photographs. It is such a priveledge to photograph weddings amongst the beauty of Northern Michigan and the cool people who hold this area with such sentimental value.</p>
<p>The Homestead is a beautiful property in Glen Arbor, nestled up on a hill and surrounded by trees. The ceremony space is hella charming. </p>
<p><img alt="the homestead michigan wedding venue summer glen arbor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bonaventura/1908-august-homestead-glen-arbor-michigan-summer-wedding-bonaventura-00293_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>All I can really say is that Elizabeth and Mark were cool as shit. Seriously, check them out...</p>
<p><img alt="homestead wedding northern michigan venue portrait bride groom black and white" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bonaventura/1908-august-homestead-glen-arbor-michigan-summer-wedding-bonaventura-00194_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The pictures should tell the story, so now I will let them do just that. </p>
<p></p>Private Lake Cottage Wedding in the Pines of Northern Michigan2019-09-30T16:42:12+00:002024-03-28T20:15:40+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/private-lake-cottage-wedding-in-the-pines-of-northern-michigan/<p>Esther and Mark were married in an intimate ceremony at their private, family home in Onaway Michigan. The property sits lakeside amongst Michigan's endless pines, and carries an intimacy and quiet beauty that only a Northern Michigan lakeside home can bring. I spend my summers living out of a small lake cottage in Bear Lake, so the vibe of this wedding was sentemental for myself. It represents what is important in life and marriage, at peace, happy and surrounded by those you love in a place that you love. </p>
<p>Special thanks to the crew that made it all happen. </p>
<h3>VENDORS</h3>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Event Planning and Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.therevelrose.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.therevelrose.com/">The Revel Rose</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/therevelrose/">https://www.instagram.com/therevelrose/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://eventsbythedaysdesign.com/" target="_blank" title="http://eventsbythedaysdesign.com/">The Days Design</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thedaysdesign/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/thedaysdesign/">https://www.instagram.com/thedaysdesign/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals and Linens: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://taylorrentalpetoskey.com/" target="_blank" title="https://taylorrentalpetoskey.com/">Taylor Rental Center Petoskey</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/taylorrentalcenterpetoskey/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/taylorrentalcenterpetoskey/">https://www.instagram.com/taylorrentalcenterpetoskey/</a></span></p>
<p>Catering:<a href="https://islandthymecatering.com/" target="_blank" title="https://islandthymecatering.com/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> Island Thyme Catering</span> </a>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/islandthymecatering/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/islandthymecatering/">https://www.instagram.com/islandthymecatering/</a></span></p>