Katherine & Joe’s Stunning Charleston Wedding at the Gaillard Center
As a wedding photographer based in Stuart, Florida, most of my weddings are in the sunshine state with beaches, lighthouses, and rustic barns. Last weekend, I headed to Charleston, South Carolina, for my first time shooting in the city, photographing Katherine and Joe’s wedding at the remarkable Charleston Gaillard Center. Charleston wedding photography is in a league of its own, with the city’s rich history and picturesque settings making it an ideal destination. I’m already looking forward to returning for more Lowcountry weddings.
Exploring Charleston’s Wedding Scene
I drove up from Stuart with my second shooter, Joey McInvale from Joey Mac Photography. The drive was smooth, which is why I'm interested in booking more Charleston weddings. On the way, we detoured to Beaufort, South Carolina, to visit a few of the filming locations of one of my all-time favorite movies, Forrest Gump.
Upon arriving in Charleston, we checked into the Hampton Inn in the historic district and set out to explore. Within an hour’s walk, we spotted 8–10 weddings, a testament to Charleston’s status as America’s #2 wedding city. The moss-draped oaks, colonial architecture, and cobblestone streets are a photographer’s dream. At The Dewberry Hotel, we visited the rooftop and met a local wedding planner and photographer who shared valuable insights about Charleston’s vibrant wedding industry and the Dewberry’s stunning event spaces.
The Gaillard Center: A Premier Wedding Venue
Katherine and Joe’s wedding was held at the Charleston Gaillard Center, a renowned performing arts venue in downtown Charleston that transforms into an elegant wedding space. Its grand ballrooms, sophisticated lobby, and versatile indoor-outdoor areas provided a variety of great back drops. On Sunday, we scouted the venue to plan our shots. A standout was Katherine’s gown hanging in the main entrance. While an orchestra rehearsal prevented us from using the stage, the venue’s natural light and architectural details offered endless creative possibilities.
Documenting the Day
We began with Katherine’s preparations at the Gaillard Center, where her exquisite dress complemented the venue’s refined aesthetic. Joey headed to the Embassy Suites to photograph Joe and his groomsmen, several of whom were military—Joe in the Army, with Marines in dress uniforms, complete with swords, adding a distinctive touch.
For the first look, we utilized the Gaillard Center’s balcony for intimate moments with Katherine and her dad, followed by Joe. Joey captured reactions from below, while I focused on close-ups from above. The ceremony took place in a ballroom with large windows, allowing beautiful natural light to illuminate the scene. I prefer avoiding artificial lighting during ceremonies to maintain their intimacy, and the setup was ideal.
After the ceremony, we took family portraits on the back terrace, which offered a gorgeous backdrop. The reception, held in two expansive ballrooms and orchestrated by Commission Event Company, was unforgettable. A nine-piece band, the Emerald Empire Band, kept the energy high. Memorable moments included Katherine and Joe cutting their cake with a sword and a lively grand entrance led by the band.
Creative Portraits and a Cinematic Group Shot
At sunset, we took Katherine and Joe to a parking garage rooftop for portraits with Charleston’s historic skyline as a backdrop. The golden light produced some of my favorite images. Inside, we photographed Katherine in the Gaillard Center’s spiral staircase, her dress creating a dramatic, elegant effect. For the bridal party group shot, I used a technique called “plating,” combining 20 individually lit photos for a dark, moody, cinematic portrait that matched the venue’s ambiance.
A Panthers Fan’s Game Seven Challenge
As a dedicated Florida Panthers fan, I couldn’t ignore that the wedding coincided with Game Seven of the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Toronto Maple Leafs. I stayed focused on capturing every moment, checking my phone sparingly for updates. (The Panthers won, thankfully!) Oddly enough, I often shoot weddings during Game Seven—last year, it was a Pelican Club wedding in Florida.
Why Charleston Wedding Photography Stands Out
Charleston’s blend of history, charm, and photogenic locations makes it a top wedding destination, and the Gaillard Center is a venue that elevates every detail. I’m excited to return to Charleston, whether at the Gaillard Center, Lowndes Grove, or another Lowcountry gem. If you’re planning a Charleston wedding, I’d love to bring my passion for authentic storytelling and creative photography to your day. Contact me to discuss your vision for your Charleston wedding photography.
Planning a Charleston wedding? Let’s capture your story with timeless, artful images.
