Columbia South Carolina Photographer – At A Glance
- This wedding at 701 Whaley showcases timeless, romantic photography in Columbia SC, captured by Stee Garman Photography, a Columbia South Carolina-based wedding photographer.
- The event features blue-and-white ginger jar-inspired décor with fresh, elegant florals.
- A beautiful choice for couples seeking a classic yet versatile wedding venue in the Columbia SC area.
A Love Story Framed by Columbia’s History and Beauty
As a Columbia South Carolina photographer, few things excite me more than photographing a wedding at 701 Whaley. Not only is it home to my own photography studio, but it’s also one of the most versatile venues in the city. For Lizzie and Aidan, it was the perfect choice for their reception after their ceremony at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church. The blend of historic charm, airy light, and timeless architecture made every image feel like a page from an editorial spread.
701 Whaley’s character shines through in every wedding, no matter the couple’s style. Lizzie’s vision embraced crisp whites, soft blues, and elegant ginger jar details — a design that played beautifully with the venue’s open space and high ceilings. As someone who adores working with shades of blue, I couldn’t have been more thrilled to document their day.
Why 701 Whaley Is a Favorite for Weddings in Columbia SC
For couples searching for a wedding photographer in Columbia South Carolina, 701 Whaley offers an irresistible combination of history and flexibility. Built in 1903 as a community center for the historic mill village, the venue has been lovingly restored into a space that accommodates both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations.
One of my favorite aspects is its ability to adapt to any wedding aesthetic. Whether a couple dreams of an elegant ballroom-style reception or a rustic-chic gathering, the venue’s architectural details and layout work seamlessly with the vision. The large windows fill the rooms with natural light — a photographer’s dream — and the neutral palette allows every color story to shine.
Columbia South Carolina Photographer Highlights Lizzie & Aidan’s Day
As a Columbia South Carolina photographer, I love the way Lizzie and Aidan’s details brought their vision to life. The ginger jar motif added an elevated Southern charm, while white blooms kept the look fresh and classic. Their ceremony at Trenholm Road United Methodist Church was heartfelt and reverent, and the joy carried over beautifully into the reception.
At 701 Whaley, guests were welcomed into a space that felt warm yet sophisticated. Blue and white décor adorned the tables, pairing perfectly with gold accents and lush floral centerpieces. The space seemed to glow as the evening sun streamed through the windows, creating the kind of soft, golden tones that translate into timeless photographs.
Historic Charm Meets Modern Celebration
Part of what makes weddings at 701 Whaley so special is the way the venue honors its past while embracing modern celebrations. The building’s exposed brick, hardwood floors, and soaring ceilings preserve the historic character, while the updated lighting and amenities provide every comfort couples and guests need.
As someone who spends so much time in this space — both for weddings and in my own studio — I can say that it truly offers the best of both worlds. It’s rare to find a venue that can feel grand yet intimate, industrial yet romantic, all in the same day.
Planning Your Wedding at 701 Whaley
If you’re envisioning a wedding in the heart of Columbia SC, here are a few tips for making the most of weddings at 701 Whaley:
- Leverage the natural light – Plan your portraits for the late afternoon to capture the venue in its most flattering glow.
- Play with the architecture – Use the tall windows, brick walls, and open spaces as intentional backdrops for photos.
- Work with your photographer early – A venue tour with your photographer can help map out the best locations for your ceremony, portraits, and reception moments.
- Choose a color palette that pops – The neutral tones of the venue make it easy to incorporate bold colors or classic muted shades without clashing.
FAQ
Q: Is 701 Whaley better for large weddings or smaller gatherings?
A: The venue is incredibly flexible and works beautifully for both. With multiple rooms and open layouts, it can be scaled to fit your guest list perfectly.
Q: How far is 701 Whaley from popular ceremony locations?
A: It’s centrally located in Columbia SC, making it a quick drive from many churches, including Trenholm Road United Methodist where Lizzie and Aidan held their ceremony.
Q: How do I find the right Columbia South Carolina wedding photographer for this venue?
A: Look for a photographer with experience shooting at 701 Whaley so they understand how to use its light and architecture to your advantage.
Q: How do I learn more about working with you?
A: Fill out the inquiry form on my website, and I’ll send over detailed information about packages and availability.
701 Whaley will always hold a special place in my heart — both as my studio home and as one of Columbia’s most iconic wedding venues. For Lizzie and Aidan, it was the perfect backdrop to their elegant, joy-filled celebration, and for me, it was an honor to capture their day from start to finish. If you’re looking for a venue that combines history, beauty, and versatility, and a Columbia South Carolina photographer who knows how to bring it all to life, I’d love to connect.
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Behind The Lens
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.
