Discover the top wedding photography locations in Columbia, SC, with stunning scenery and expert tips for creating unforgettable memories. Here is the top 10 wedding photography locations in Columbia, SC. This list is per google, but come back as I add honorable mentions!
Introduction
Columbia, South Carolina, offers a picturesque backdrop for wedding photography. From lush gardens to historic landmarks, the city provides a diverse array of stunning locations to capture timeless memories. Whether you’re envisioning classic elegance, rustic charm, or modern sophistication, Columbia has something for every couple. Let’s explore the top 10 wedding photography locations in Columbia, SC, along with tips to help you choose the perfect spot for your big day.
1. The Lace House at Arsenal Hill (Currently under renovation)
Nestled in the heart of Columbia, The Lace House boasts beautifully manicured gardens, fountains, and intricate ironwork. This historic venue provides an enchanting blend of Southern charm and elegance, making it a favorite for bridal portraits and wedding day photos.
Pro Tip: Schedule your session during the golden hour to take advantage of the warm, natural light that highlights the venue’s intricate details.
Side Note: This venue is currently under renovation and will reopen in 2025.
2. Riverbanks Botanical Garden
This lush, sprawling garden offers a vibrant array of blooms year-round. Whether it’s the colorful rose garden or the serene waterfall backdrop, Riverbanks Botanical Garden delivers a romantic setting perfect for wedding photography.
Pro Tip: Call ahead to check on seasonal blooms or plan your session during spring for maximum floral variety.
https://www.riverbanks.org/plan-your-event/weddings
3. The State House Grounds
The South Carolina State House Grounds provide a majestic setting with grand staircases, stately architecture, and beautifully landscaped gardens. This iconic location offers a mix of history and grandeur for your wedding photos.
Pro Tip: Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds and capturing intimate moments.
https://www.admin.sc.gov/services/state-house-events
4. Congaree National Park
For couples who love nature, Congaree National Park offers a rustic and adventurous backdrop. With towering trees, winding boardwalks, and serene waterways, this location is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for exploring, and don’t forget to check the weather for optimal lighting conditions.
https://www.nps.gov/cong/index.htm
5. 701 Whaley
This trendy and versatile event space features industrial-chic vibes, exposed brick, and ample natural light. It’s an excellent choice for couples seeking a modern aesthetic for their wedding photos.
Pro Tip: Use the venue’s unique textures as a backdrop for dynamic and artistic shots.
Fun fact: My office is located at 701 Whaley, suite 211.
6. Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park
With its scenic river views, walking trails, and charming bridges, Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park is a favorite among local photographers. This location offers a relaxed, romantic ambiance.
Pro Tip: Bring props like blankets or picnic baskets to personalize your photos in this laid-back setting.
https://www.experiencecolumbiasc.com/listing/riverfront-park/15732
7. Saluda Shoals Park
This versatile location features open fields, wooded trails, and the Saluda River as a stunning backdrop. Saluda Shoals Park is ideal for couples who want a mix of natural beauty and flexibility.
Pro Tip: Opt for early morning sessions to capture the soft mist over the river for a dreamy effect. The River Center is a great place for a reception.
https://www.icrc.net/park/saluda-shoals-park
8. Historic Columbia’s Gardens
The gardens at Historic Columbia sites, such as the Robert Mills House or Hampton Preston, offer intimate, picturesque spots for wedding photography. These well-preserved grounds exude timeless beauty.
Pro Tip: Incorporate vintage props or attire to complement the historic setting. The venue spaces require rentals as they are setup as public gardens.
https://www.historiccolumbia.org/rentals
9. Finlay Park (Currently under renovations)
Known for its iconic waterfall and city skyline views, Finlay Park offers a dynamic blend of urban and natural elements. It’s a great option for couples looking to capture diverse backdrops.
Pro Tip: Visit during sunset to achieve stunning golden-hour shots with the city in the background.
10. Lake Murray
For waterfront wedding photography, Lake Murray delivers breathtaking views, especially during sunset. The expansive lake and surrounding greenery create a serene and romantic atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Use the lake’s docks or shoreline for candid shots that highlight the tranquil setting.
https://www.dominionenergy.com/lakes-and-recreation/lake-murray-sc
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Location
- Reflect Your Personality: Choose a location that resonates with your personal style and story as a couple.
- Consider Accessibility: Ensure the venue is easy to access for your photographer and any additional equipment.
- Check for Permits: Some locations may require prior permissions for professional photography—plan ahead.
- Scout Ahead: Visit your chosen location at the same time of day your photos will be taken to gauge lighting conditions.
Let’s Capture Your Dream Wedding
At Stee Garman Photography, we specialize in creating timeless memories for couples in Columbia, SC, and beyond. Whether you’re envisioning a romantic garden shoot or a bold urban backdrop, we’re here to bring your vision to life. Ready to book your session? Contact us today to secure your date and make your wedding photography dreams come true!
To see more Wedding Photography Locations in Columbia, SC visit our blog at www.steegarmanphotography.com
There’s a reason Furman University is a beloved location for engagement photos, and when the season turns to fall, the campus transforms into a truly magical backdrop. Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing Erin and Bubba’s engagement session here, and the vibrant autumn colors, serene lake, and iconic architecture couldn’t have been more perfect. If you’re looking for a Fall portrait location, I can’t recommend a prettier location for a Furman University engagement session.
A Scenic Start by the Bell Tower
Our session began with Furman’s famous bell tower, a campus landmark standing gracefully by the lake. This structure, surrounded by trees adorned in warm, autumnal hues, was the ideal setting to kick off Erin and Bubba’s Furman University engagement session. The light gently filtering through the trees added a soft, romantic feel to the images, perfectly capturing the essence of their love.
A Stroll Through the Fall Foliage
As we moved to different spots around campus, Erin and Bubba’s chemistry was undeniable. They strolled hand in hand under trees that were shedding their leaves, creating a colorful carpet beneath their feet. The beauty of Furman’s landscaping in the fall added a layer of magic to each shot. The mix of red, orange, and yellow tones contrasted beautifully against Erin’s cozy, stylish sweater dress and Bubba’s classic, preppy blazer look.
Capturing Candid Moments by the Lake
One of my favorite parts of the shoot was by the lake. The peaceful water, reflecting the stunning colors of the trees around it, provided a tranquil setting where Erin and Bubba shared some of their sweetest moments. Their genuine laughter, warm embraces, and tender kisses made every frame feel effortlessly romantic. There’s something about the calmness of water that brings out the best in couples, and this session was no exception.
A Picture-Perfect Ending by the Spiral Staircase
We finished the session near Furman’s spiral staircase, a charming architectural detail that added a touch of elegance to the photos. As Bubba lifted Erin, the joy and excitement of their engagement radiated in every shot. The interplay of light and shadow around the staircase created a soft, intimate atmosphere—a beautiful end to our time together.
Why Furman University Engagement Session in the Fall is a Must
Furman University’s campus is breathtaking year-round, but there’s something truly special about it in the fall. The rich colors, timeless architecture, and serene lake views make it an ideal location for couples who want a romantic, natural backdrop for their engagement photos. Erin and Bubba’s session captured the heart of Furman in autumn—a blend of beauty, warmth, and a touch of classic Southern charm.
If you’re looking for a location that’s as picturesque as it is meaningful, Furman University in the fall is the place to be. Erin and Bubba’s engagement session was a reminder of how the right setting can make love stories come to life in the most magical way.
Tori and Josh’s South Carolina Statehouse Dream Wedding Day: From Charming Details to a Sparkling Send-Off
When Tori and Josh’s wedding day arrived, every detail felt like it was pulled straight from a storybook. I was thrilled to start the day with them at the stunning Hotel Trundle, where they prepared for the big day surrounded by family, friends, and beautiful touches. The couple had thoughtfully rented the Flutterwing, a charming little hotel attachment that became a cozy spot for their loved ones to gather. This quaint area had rooms for Tori and Josh’s parents and the bridal party, and it even featured an adorable patio area. As we captured those intimate moments and intricate details, the patio provided delicious breakfast bites and snacks, setting the perfect, laid-back tone.
First Look prior to the South Carolina Statehouse Wedding
With excitement bubbling over, the wedding party boarded the Captain Telegram trolley, an iconic ride known for adding a dash of vintage charm to any occasion. It transported guests from the hotel to the South Carolina State House grounds, the breathtaking location for the ceremony. Before walking down the aisle, Tori and Josh shared a private first look beneath one of the majestic old trees on the grounds, their smiles and laughter capturing a timeless moment in the beauty of nature.
Ceremony | South Carolina Statehouse Wedding
The ceremony was simply spectacular. The bridal party made a grand entrance, cascading down the State House steps like something out of a magazine. Adding to the magic, their sweet puppy, Chip-loo, joined the bridal party, dressed up and ready to celebrate with his humans. And if that wasn’t enough, Josh’s father served as the officiant, creating a truly heartfelt moment that made everyone in attendance feel connected to the couple’s love story.
The Portraits
Once they exchanged vows, we transitioned into family and bridal party portraits. One of the best parts? A little guest decided to join in on the fun, making for some lighthearted photos that turned out even cuter when paired with matching sunglasses!
The Reception
Next, it was time to celebrate in style. We headed over to Savage Craft for a reception space filled with the warmth and richness of navy, garnet, and gold hues. The tables were adorned with stunning floral arrangements by American Floral, whose arrangements added the perfect pop of color and elegance to the room.
No wedding in South Carolina would be complete without an incredible cake, and Bonnie Brunt Cakes truly delivered. Not only did they craft a gorgeous cake, but they also created an adorable replica of Chip-loo to top it off! As a sweet extra touch, the dessert table was packed with a variety of cookies, offering something for everyone with a serious sweet tooth.
The night continued with endless dancing, laughter, and even a surprise visit from Cocky, the beloved South Carolina mascot. Seeing Cocky light up the dance floor was definitely a highlight for the crowd and brought even more energy to an already lively celebration.
As the night drew to a close, Tori and Josh made a memorable exit through a tunnel of sparklers held by their family and friends. There’s something so magical about a sparkler send-off, a picture-perfect way to end a day full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.
Tori and Josh’s South Carolina Statehouse wedding was a dream to capture from beginning to end, and I felt so honored to document each beautiful detail and every cherished memory. Here’s to a lifetime of love, happiness, and adventure for this amazing couple!
Amber & Alex’s Sunset Sailboat Wedding in Massachusetts: An Unforgettable Celebration on the Sea
When Amber and Alex dreamed of their wedding, they knew they wanted a day filled with romance, intimacy, and the beauty of nature. They chose a sailboat wedding in Cape Cod, and from the first breathtaking sunset view to the final toasts under a sky full of stars, every moment was as magical as they’d imagined.
Amber stepped onto the boat in her delicate lace dress, with her “something blue” shoes peeking out as a subtle yet charming touch. The floral arrangements complemented the natural hues of the ocean and sky, creating a color palette that was both vibrant and calming. As the sun dipped toward the horizon, Amber and Alex exchanged vows, surrounded by the gentle rhythm of the waves and the peacefulness of the open water. It was a scene that felt almost cinematic – just the two of them, fully present and connected, with nothing but the sea and sky as witnesses.
For those of you considering a sailboat elopement, wedding, or engagement session, this is your sign to go for it! Imagine having a private, uninterrupted space where you and your partner can be completely in the moment, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Sailboat weddings, like Amber and Alex’s, offer a unique blend of elegance and adventure, and they bring an undeniable sense of romance that can’t be replicated on land.
Choosing a sailboat for your wedding day means embracing an atmosphere that’s both peaceful and full of natural beauty. You’re away from the noise of the world, and there’s something undeniably special about saying “I do” with the sun setting behind you, casting a golden glow over you and your guests. This setting encourages couples to slow down, breathe in the salty air, and truly focus on each other and the commitment they’re making.
The intimacy of a sailboat wedding is perfect for couples who want to create a personal, meaningful experience. You’ll have fewer distractions and a smaller, more relaxed setting that allows you to spend quality time with each of your guests. Plus, you’re practically guaranteed to get those epic sunset shots that will look stunning in your wedding album!
Not to mention, the adventure doesn’t have to stop with the wedding. Many couples choose to continue their celebration with a day of sailing, exploring, or simply enjoying a peaceful evening out at sea. It’s a memorable way to start your married life, embracing the unknown and navigating the waters together – a beautiful metaphor for marriage itself.
Cape Cod is an incredible location for a sailboat wedding, offering gorgeous coastal views, experienced local captains, and unforgettable sunsets. With the right planning, you can ensure every detail of your day is exactly as you envision, just as Amber and Alex did. They worked with a talented team of vendors to bring their vision to life, from the delicate floral arrangements to the personalized touches on the boat itself.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels adventurous, intimate, and breathtakingly beautiful, a sailboat elopement or wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small group of your closest friends and family, a sailboat provides a stunning, private setting that’s truly unique. And there’s no better place to create those memories than out on the water, with nothing but the horizon before you and endless possibilities ahead.
Ready to make your dream sailboat wedding a reality? Reach out to learn more about how we can capture each moment, from the big vows to the quiet glances. Embrace the romance, the adventure, and the beauty of a wedding on the sea.
WWW.STEEGARMANPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
