I’ve seen just about every version of a wedding day as a South Carolina wedding photographer. Slow and steady, rushed and chaotic, and everything in between. And here’s the truth: the difference almost always comes down to the people you trust to guide your day. When your photographer and planner are on the same page, you get space to breathe, laugh, and be fully present while we capture the moments you’ll treasure forever.

Emmie and Brodie’s wedding at The Venue at Edgewood was the perfect example of this. Their day was thoughtful, energetic, and beautifully paced because they surrounded themselves with vendors who had their best interests at heart.

Why the Right Team Matters

I believe so strongly that the best wedding vendors are the ones who put the couple first. They’re servant‑minded, selfless, and always thinking about how to make your day smoother, calmer, and more joyful.

A great planner knows that the wedding day isn’t about them; it’s about creating a team. They communicate with every vendor (especially photographers!) about timing, transitions, rain plans, and the little changes that inevitably pop up throughout the day. And when everyone works together, the couple is best served.

Planning for a Stress-Free First Look

Your first look is your chance to slow down before everything begins. Whether it’s full of laughter, tears, or just a quiet moment to breathe together, my job is to help make it natural and meaningful, not a performance.

As your photographer, I’ll always balance getting beautiful photos while giving you space to just be with each other. I’ll usually grab a few frames at the start, then step back so you can take it all in together. It’s a moment you only get once, and I want you to feel relaxed, not rushed.

A few tips to make your first and feel look extra smooth:

• Have your bouquet on stand by and let someone hold it for your first look. That way, you have both of your hands free during the moment and don’t have to worry about what to do with a bouquet. We will give it to you for your photos right after! 
• Have your wedding bands ready so when you take portraits after your first look, you have all of your wedding rings on.
• Build in breathing room so you don’t feel like you’re racing to the ceremony. Extra time gives you a more relaxed and joyful experience.

A Real Wedding Snapshot at The Venue at Edgewood

I’ve photographed five weddings at The Venue at Edgewood, and by now I know this place like the back of my hand. I also know the owners well, which makes it such a joy to come back here again and again.

Both Emmie and Brodie come from big families, and family photos were really important to them. Because we built plenty of time into the timeline, we were able to split those portraits—half before the ceremony, and half after. That one decision made such a difference. No one felt rushed, the kids had space to breathe (thank goodness for my second shooter, who was amazing with the little ones), and we captured every combination that mattered without the stress.

How Planning Shapes Your Photos

This wedding reminded me how much thoughtful timelines and great vendor teamwork matter for the photos you’ll cherish. When family photos are given the time they deserve, they turn into sweet, unrushed memories instead of a checklist to get through. With strong communication between planner and photographer, every transition flows smoothly and you get to stay fully present instead of wondering what’s next.

If you want to see more of Emmie and Brodie’s story, you can peek back at their Lake Jocassee engagement photos. They’re just as fun and heartfelt as their wedding day was.

Golden Hour is Always Worth It

Sunset portraits are one of my favorite parts of the day, and not just because the light is stunning (though… it totally is). Golden hour gives you a break, a breath, and a chance to slow down together in the middle of the celebration.

I usually recommend we sneak out for sunset photos once you’ve finished eating and guests are still at their tables. That way, you don’t miss anything important during the reception, and we catch that dreamy, glowy light at just the right time. If the light isn’t quite there yet, I’ll chat with your planner and we’ll adjust the timeline together. Communication is key!

Doing portraits at golden hour adds so much variety to your gallery. It breaks up photo time (so it never feels like too much at once) and gives you a whole different vibe—more relaxed, more playful, more you. Earlier in the day, you’re full of anticipation. But by sunset? You’re married, you’re glowing, and you’re finally ready to twirl, laugh, and just be together.

And honestly… most people don’t really feel playful until the sun starts going down anyway. I don’t make the rules!

Tips for a Seamless South Carolina Wedding

• Give yourself time. Build margin into your timeline, especially for family photos. (I wrote an entire wedding weekend timeline guide to help you plan with intention.)
• Choose a planner who values teamwork. Communication between vendors makes everything smoother.
• Think ahead about portraits. Decide which ones matter most before the day, so we can capture them without stress.
• Trust your people. The right team will carry the details so you can be fully present.

The Timeless Charm of Film Photography

One of my favorite parts of Emmie and Brodie’s gallery is the film photography. Film has such a timeless quality that adds depth and texture. Their colors, their laughter, and the golden light of Edgewood came through so beautifully on film. For couples considering adding film to their South Carolina wedding, this gallery is the perfect example of how film and digital images can complement each other.

Ready to Plan Your South Carolina Wedding?

Emmie and Brodie’s wedding at The Venue at Edgewood was a beautiful reminder of why I love what I do. With the right team around you, your wedding day can feel effortless, meaningful, and full of the kind of moments you’ll want to relive forever.

If you’re planning a South Carolina wedding, I’d be so honored to walk alongside you. Let’s create something beautiful together.

Vendors

Planner/Coordinator: @ashleighcraftdesign
Venue(s): @thevenueatedgewood
Photographer: @ElyLynnRandall
Videographer: @garciavisusals.co
Florist: @prettythings_weddingflowers
Rentals: @professionalparty
Catering: Boulevard Catering
Cake, Dessert & Baked Goods: @baked_and_frosted
DJ/Band: @leveldme
Getaway Car: @jeep
Hair & Makeup Artist(s): @hair.bylexxielee and @whitneyslovelylooks
Wedding Dress Boutique & Designer: @avalaurennebride.sc
Veil/Hairpiece: @avalaurennebride.sc
Bridal Earrings: @oliveandpiper
Bride’s Rings: @diamondsdirect and @jaredjewelers
Send-Off Dress: @altardstate
Bridesmaid Dresses: @bellabridesmaidsgreenville
Bride’s Getting Ready Outfit: @waverles
Suits/Tux: Joseph A. Bank
Groom’s Shoes: Joseph A. Bank
Wedding Band: @diamondsdirect