This summer wedding at Creek at Ion showcases classic Southern charm with a light and airy feel, captured by Stee Garman Photography, a Columbia, SC-based photographer.
The wedding featured southern elegance, lowcountry views, and true Charleston romance.
A beautiful choice for couples seeking a timeless, editorial, laid-back luxury experience in Charleston, SC.
A Romantic Summer Wedding in the Heart of Charleston
Kayleigh and Dan’s wedding day was the kind of celebration that makes you fall in love with Charleston all over again. As a Charleston wedding photographer, I am constantly inspired by the city’s blend of Southern history, natural beauty, and refined style—and this Creek at Ion wedding embodied all of those qualities flawlessly.
Their vision was simple yet sophisticated: a timeless celebration that felt both intimate and elevated. From the soft color palette to the serene waterfront views, every detail reflected their love story while showcasing the elegance that Charleston weddings are known for.
The Creek at Ion: A Charleston Gem
The Creek at Ion is one of those rare venues that feels like stepping into a scene from a Southern romance novel. The stately plantation-style home overlooks the Charleston marsh and creek, giving guests a breathtaking backdrop for both the ceremony and reception.
On this warm summer day, the venue thoughtfully added umbrellas and fans to keep guests comfortable in the heat. The ceremony took place on the iconic lawn, framed by sweeping views of the water. The dock provided a stunning photo location where the golden light danced across the creek—one of my favorite moments to capture as a Charleston wedding photographer.
The Ion community surrounding the venue adds to its charm. With its winding streets, lush greenery, and lowcountry architecture, it’s easy to see why couples fall in love with this location. I’m already looking forward to returning in March for another wedding here.
Capturing Timeless Lowcountry Moments
Photographing Kayleigh and Dan’s wedding was a reminder of why Charleston wedding photography holds such a special place in my heart. The soft summer light reflected beautifully off the white exterior of the Creek at Ion, creating that dreamy, airy look my couples love.
Some of my favorite images came from candid in-between moments—Kayleigh laughing with her bridesmaids under the shade of the porch, Dan’s expression as he first saw her walking down the aisle, and the couple holding hands at the edge of the dock as the sun began to set. These are the moments that define my approach to Charleston wedding photography: authentic, emotional, and artfully preserved.
Planning Your Own Charleston SC Wedding
If you’re envisioning a Charleston SC wedding, The Creek at Ion offers the best of both worlds—historic elegance and a relaxed waterfront vibe. Here are a few planning tips for couples considering this venue:
Consider the season – Summer is beautiful but can be warm, so plan for guest comfort with shade, fans, and hydration stations.
Use the venue’s variety – Take advantage of multiple photo locations, from the porch and gardens to the dock and waterfront.
Time your portraits – The light here is incredible during golden hour, especially by the marsh.
Lean into Charleston style – Soft pastel florals, classic linens, and understated elegance complement the venue’s aesthetic beautifully.
FAQ
Q: Why hire a Charleston wedding photographer who knows the city? A: A local or frequently working photographer understands the light, seasons, and unique challenges of Charleston venues, ensuring your photos look their absolute best.
Q: Can you photograph both the ceremony and reception at Creek at Ion? A: Absolutely. The venue’s layout makes it seamless to capture the entire day without feeling rushed between locations.
Q: When is the best time of year for a Charleston SC wedding? A: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures, but summer can be magical if planned with guest comfort in mind.
Q: How do I learn more about working with you? A: Fill out my inquiry form, and I’ll send you details on my Charleston wedding photography collections, availability, and how we can capture your vision.
Kayleigh and Dan’s Creek at Ion wedding was everything I love about photographing in Charleston—timeless architecture, golden light, waterfront views, and a couple deeply in love. If you’re dreaming of your own lowcountry celebration and want a Charleston wedding photographer who blends fine-art elegance with heartfelt storytelling, I’d love to help you create the wedding gallery of your dreams.
Hi, I'm Stee Garman, a Columbia South Carolina photographer and East Coast traveler. Photography has been a love of mine for as long as I can remember. In high school, I went through hundreds of disposable cameras. When I studied abroad in Italy, I bought my first DSLR. Once I got home, I started taking photos of families I knew - just for fun.
Those casual photos quickly turned into part-time work - as families referred me and my business began its growth. A few months later, an old college friend asked me to photograph her wedding. I was hesitant, but I agreed. From that point forward, I knew that’s where I wanted to be: in the celebration right alongside my couples. I've found my true calling in being there for couples on one of the biggest days of their lives. It's an honor I never take for granted, and one that fills me with joy - every single time.
Start Your Journey
Fine-art, light & airy wedding photographer based in Columbia, South Carolina