A Merchants Hall Wedding | Catherine + Casey

Catherine and Casey were my last wedding of 2021, and they had the most spectacular day at Merchants Hall! I really couldn’t have asked for a better way to end my 2021 Charleston wedding season!

Catherine and Casey opted for a first look at the Cottages on the Charleston Harbor, where they got ready. I loved seeing how Casey immediately relaxed as soon as he saw Catherine, and how even after their first look, he still got emotional as he walked down the aisle. I know that’s the hold up for so many couples who aren’t sure about a first look. I always tell me couples not to let that be the reason to hold you back from a first look! I always think first looks bring out so much more emotion than if you don’t see each other until you walk down the aisle. With a first look, Catherine and Casey had a chance to hug, to talk to each other, and spend some time together before their evening ceremony. And you will still get those butterflies walking down the aisle, because it’s just such a special and once-in-a-lifetime feeling!

The ceremony and reception were truly stunning, and I was in awe of how Merchants Hall was transformed by the most beautiful white florals by Lux and Union! I loved how simple and stylish they were because the pale colors complimented the rustic details perfectly and it was truly a picture of modern elegance.

I think I commented to every other vendor this weekend about how KIND Catherine and Casey and their families are! Their parents and wedding party kept checking up on 8 months pregnant me, and I loved getting to laugh and joke with everyone during the day. Casey’s mom insisted that if the baby was born at the wedding, I would HAVE to name it Casey, since that’s a gender-neutral name and I’m not finding out the gender of the baby! And one of Catherine’s bridesmaids was a nurse, and she assured me she would take care of me if my water broke. THANKFULLY, none of that happened, but we all had a good time joking about it throughout the day.

Catherine and Casey, you two are absolutely stunning people, inside and out. Even though you told me that you would be awkward in front of the camera, I knew from the first time I met you and the giant, sweet smiles on your faces that you couldn’t be more wrong. All you need for great photos is a little direction and a love like yours. Y’all are magic in front of the camera!

Thank you for starting off my 2021 with an incredible engagement session, and ending my 2021 wedding season with the most joyful, laughter-filled celebration!

Coordination: Everything After the Ring

Photography: Taylor Rae Photography

Hair and Makeup: Lashes and Lace Bridal Hair and Makeup

Getting Ready Location: Cottages on the Charleston Harbor

Venue: Merchants Hall

Florals: Lux and Union

Band: Emerald Empire Band

Cake: Cake by Cait

Catering: Relish Distinctive Catering

Gown: Gown Boutique of Charleston