Blog | Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage

Chocolate + Chartreuse Fall Wedding at the Pavilion at Patriot’s Point // Taylor + Hutch

Dana — Sat, 26 Sep 2026 23:28:11 +0000

Taylor and Hutch’s wedding at the Pavilion at Patriots Point was colorful, stylish, and filled with so much personality. From the unexpected color palette and playful animal-print details to the incredible sailcloth tent overlooking Charleston Harbor, every part of the day felt distinctly them.

Their palette mixed rich shades of brown with lilac, chartreuse, soft pink and fresh green – such a fun combination that worked beautifully against the natural Lowcountry setting. The bridesmaids wore chocolate brown dresses while Taylor carried a classic bouquet of white calla lilies. Hutch kept things timeless in a black tuxedo, adding just a hint of personality with a beautiful Brackish bow tie.

The ceremony took place outdoors overlooking the water at Patriots Point Links, surrounded by their closest family and friends. Lush arrangements in soft pink, lavender, white and green framed the ceremony space, creating a romantic garden-inspired look without competing with the beautiful waterfront surroundings.

For the reception, guests gathered beneath a gorgeous sailcloth tent overlooking Charleston Harbor. The design was such a fun mix of polished and playful: patterned linens, amber glass, lilac and blush florals, chartreuse accents, warm brown tones and unexpected animal-print details. Lounge areas gave guests a comfortable place to gather throughout the evening, while little cheetah touches added just the right amount of whimsy.

One of my favorite details, though, came directly from Taylor herself. She hand-painted 100 tambourines for the dance floor! It was such a creative, personal addition and the perfect indication that this celebration was designed not only to look beautiful, but to be an incredible party for everyone they loved. And that really sums up Taylor and Hutch’s wedding day. As beautiful as all of the details were, what stood out most was the amount of love surrounding these two. From their wedding party to their families and friends, there was such a joyful energy throughout the entire day.

Taylor and Hutch, thank you so much for trusting me to document this beautiful celebration. It was truly and honor and I had the BEST time with you guys. Congratulations, you two!

The post Chocolate + Chartreuse Fall Wedding at the Pavilion at Patriot’s Point // Taylor + Hutch appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Intimate Backyard Wedding in Charleston // Molly + Erik

Dana — Fri, 11 Sep 2026 22:26:45 +0000

There’s something incredibly special about celebrating a wedding at home – especially when that home is one you’ve only just begun making your own.

Molly and Erik had recently purchased their home on James Island, and instead of planning a large, traditional wedding, they invited their immediate families and closest friends to join them there for an intimate backyard celebration. The entire day felt wonderfully relaxed and personal, with thoughtful details contributed by the people they love most. Before guests arrived, we wandered down to the end of their quiet road for portraits beneath the sprawling live oaks. It was such a quintessential James Island setting, with that beautiful filtered Lowcountry light coming through the trees. Keeping their portraits close to home also fit the spirit of the day perfectly – nothing rushed or overly orchestrated, just time for Molly and Erik to enjoy being together on their wedding day

Their ceremony took place beneath the trees in their backyard, surrounded by a small gathering of family and friends. Molly carried a loose, garden-inspired bouquet filled with soft peach, white, blue and yellow blooms, while Erik wore a deep blue suit – the perfect complement to the colorful, organic palette woven throughout the day.

After cocktails in the backyard, their guests gathered on the porch for dinner. A private chef prepared the meal, which was served at one long table overlooking the backyard. The tablescape was one of my favorite details of the day, incorporating pieces of family china alongside soft linens, blue glassware, candlelight and whimsical garden florals. Rather than everything matching perfectly, the collected pieces gave the table so much character and history – elegant, sentimental and completely at home in the setting.

So many elements of the celebration were created by the people closest to Molly and Erik. Molly’s sister baked their wedding cake, while a close friend – and incredibly talented Charleston floral artist – designed the flowers. Those personal touches made an already intimate wedding feel even more meaningful.

What I loved most about this day was how lived-in it felt. This wasn’t a venue transformed for a wedding and returned to normal the next morning. It was Molly and Erik’s home. Their ceremony happened in the yard they’ll continue to look out at. Their first dinner as a married couple was shared with the people they love around a table on their own back porch. Years from now, they’ll still be able to walk past these exact places and remember this day. It was serene, colorful, personal and beautifully unfussy – proof that a wedding doesn’t have to be elaborate to feel incredibly special.

Molly and Erik, thank you so much for inviting me into your home and trusting me to document such a beautiful beginning. Congratulations, you two!

The post Intimate Backyard Wedding in Charleston // Molly + Erik appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Blue + White Coastal Summer Wedding at the Ocean Course on Kiawah // Allyson + Brian

Dana — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 14:48:17 +0000

There was an ease to Allyson and Brian’s wedding day that made it such a joy to photograph. From the moment I arrived at The Ocean Course on Kiawah Island, everything felt relaxed, intentional, and centered on what mattered most: celebrating their marriage with the people they love. No overcomplicated timeline, no unnecessary stress – just a beautiful day filled with laughter, happy tears, and the kind of genuine connection that makes a wedding unforgettable.

Allyson and Brian traveled from Pennsylvania to celebrate with their closest family and friends, choosing one of the most beautiful venues on the South Carolina coast for their destination wedding weekend. With a small wedding party, timeless coastal details, and breathtaking views stretching across the Ocean Course, every part of their day felt intentional without ever feeling overdone.

The blue and white color palette was the perfect complement to the setting. Soft blue linens, lush white florals, and elegant details echoed the natural beauty of Kiawah while creating a look that was classic, sophisticated, and effortlessly coastal. From the ceremony overlooking the sweeping marsh views to the intimate reception filled with laughter and heartfelt toasts, every detail felt beautifully cohesive.

One of my favorite things about photographing Allyson and Brian was simply being around them. They are the kind of couple who make everyone feel comfortable, and their joy was contagious throughout the entire day. Whether they were sharing quiet moments together on the porch, laughing with their wedding party, or celebrating with family after the ceremony, there was an ease to their relationship that made every photograph feel genuine.

As the evening continued, guests gathered to celebrate beneath the warm glow of the reception space while the coastal landscape outside provided the perfect backdrop. The entire day struck that rare balance between elegant and relaxed – beautifully designed while still feeling deeply personal.

Allyson and Brian, thank you for trusting me to document such a meaningful chapter of your story. Your wedding was truly one of my favorites, and it was such an honor to spend the day with you and the people who love you most. I wish you both a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and countless reasons to keep smiling at each other the way you did all day long.

The post Blue + White Coastal Summer Wedding at the Ocean Course on Kiawah // Allyson + Brian appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Intimate Wedding at Kiawah Ocean Course // Allison + Jake

Dana — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 01:22:51 +0000

After three years of being engaged and originally planning a much larger wedding, Allison and Jake decided to take a different path. Instead of a big celebration, they chose an intimate wedding day centered around what mattered most to them: each other and the people they love most. With just 19 guests in attendance – including immediate family and a beloved aunt and uncle – the result was a wedding that felt deeply personal, incredibly meaningful, and completely true to who they are. Perhaps the most surprising part? They booked their venue entirely sight unseen! Living in Ohio, Allison and Jake had never actually visited the property before their wedding day. Their first time seeing it in person was when they arrived to get married there – a decision that sounds a little crazy on paper but ended up being absolutely perfect.

From the moment the day began, everything felt relaxed and intentional. The soft pink-and-green color palette created a timeless, romantic atmosphere, with lush blooms in shades of blush, ivory, and fresh spring green complementing the coastal setting beautifully. One of the most memorable moments of the day happened during Allison and Jake’s First Look and private vows. As they exchanged handwritten promises, Jake revealed that throughout their relationship he had saved every sticky note Allison had ever written him. Every little reminder, message, and note she had left over the years had been carefully tucked away and preserved. He incorporated those notes into his vow book, creating one of the sweetest and most thoughtful surprises I’ve ever witnessed during a wedding day.

Their ceremony was equally personal. Officiated by Allison’s sister and witnessed by their closest family members, it felt less like a formal event and more like a gathering of loved ones celebrating something truly important. There were happy tears, plenty of laughter, and the kind of genuine emotion that fills a space when everyone present has played a meaningful role in a couple’s story. As someone who photographs weddings for a living, intimate celebrations will always hold a special place in my heart. There’s something so refreshing about a wedding where there is time to slow down, be present, and simply enjoy the experience. Allison and Jake’s day was exactly that.

Their families were absolutely wonderful – warm, welcoming, and genuinely excited to celebrate these two. Every interaction felt authentic, and every moment carried a sense of joy and gratitude that made the entire day a pleasure to photograph. By the end of the evening, it was impossible not to feel grateful for having been part of such a meaningful celebration. Allison and Jake created a wedding day that wasn’t about impressing hundreds of guests or following expectations – it was about family, connection, and beginning their marriage surrounded by the people who know them best.

And honestly, I can’t imagine a more beautiful way to start a marriage than that.

The post Intimate Wedding at Kiawah Ocean Course // Allison + Jake appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Colorful Spring Wedding at The Sanctuary on Kiawah Island // Addison + Riley

Dana — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 18:39:59 +0000

When a place has been woven into your family’s traditions for years, there’s something especially meaningful about beginning your marriage there. For Addison, Kiawah Island has been a beloved part of life since childhood. So when it came time to choose a wedding location, bringing family and friends together on the island where so many memories had already been made felt like the perfect choice.

After meeting in college in Boston and spending the last eight years building a life together, Addison and Riley returned to Kiawah to celebrate the start of their next chapter surrounded by the people they love most. With a traditional ceremony at Holy Family Catholic Church followed by a reception at The Sanctuary, their wedding day was equal parts elegant, joyful, and deeply personal.

Their day began with a traditional ceremony at Holy Family Catholic Church before everyone made their way to Kiawah Island for a stunning reception at The Sanctuary. The entire celebration struck that perfect balance between timeless elegance and joyful personality.

Addison looked absolutely incredible in her lace gown with delicate off-the-shoulder sleeves, while Riley kept things classic in a black tuxedo. Together, they brought such an effortless elegance to every portrait, but what stood out even more was how naturally they made each other laugh. After eight years together, they still looked genuinely excited to be side-by-side, and that joy carried through the entire day.

One of my favorite design elements from the day was the color palette. Soft pale blue bridesmaid dresses created a classic coastal foundation, while vibrant florals in shades of pink, peach, orange, yellow, and lavender brought so much life and energy to every space. The combination felt fresh, cheerful, and completely at home against Kiawah’s lush greenery and oceanfront setting. The reception tent at The Sanctuary was transformed into a colorful garden-inspired celebration filled with overflowing floral arrangements, soft blue linens, woven accents, and candlelight. Everywhere you looked there was another thoughtful detail, yet the overall feeling remained relaxed and welcoming rather than overly formal.

Addison and Riley, thank you for allowing me to document such a meaningful weekend. It was an honor to capture your celebration, and I can’t imagine a more beautiful place to begin married life together than the island that has meant so much to your family for so many years.

The post Colorful Spring Wedding at The Sanctuary on Kiawah Island // Addison + Riley appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Rainy Spring Wedding at Middleton Place // Caroline + Cody

Dana — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 00:29:04 +0000

Charleston weather likes to keep everyone on their toes, but even by Lowcountry standards, Caroline and Cody’s wedding day was memorable. Rain fell for most of the day – a rarity in Charleston, especially when it seems determined to stick around from morning until ceremony time. Yet through every forecast update, timeline adjustment, and weather-related decision, one thing never changed: Caroline and Cody were absolutely determined to get married beneath the oak trees at Middleton Place. And somehow, just when it mattered most, everything came together.

Living in New Orleans, Caroline and Cody chose Middleton Place for its timeless Southern beauty, and their vision centered around the venue’s iconic oak-lined grounds. While the weather kept everyone guessing throughout the day, they never let it dampen their excitement. In fact, one of the things I remember most about this wedding was the attitude of everyone involved. Their families, wedding party, and vendor team approached the day with flexibility, positivity, and the understanding that some things are simply out of our control.

Thankfully, Caroline and Cody had rented an incredible Airbnb in downtown Charleston for getting ready, and its beautiful covered porches became the perfect backup plan for portraits before the ceremony. Having a solid rain plan is so important for Charleston weddings, and those covered spaces allowed us to create beautiful images throughout the day without sacrificing the elegant, coastal feel they envisioned.

Their blue, white, and green color palette was the perfect complement to Middleton Place’s natural beauty. Soft blue hydrangeas paired with crisp white blooms and lush greenery created a classic, sophisticated look that felt both timeless and fresh. From the bridesmaids’ soft blue dresses to the elegant reception details, every element tied together beautifully. Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for. About ten minutes before the ceremony was scheduled to begin, the rain stopped. Guests took their seats, final preparations were made, and Caroline walked down the aisle exactly where she had hoped to all along. After a day filled with uncertainty, it felt like a collective exhale from everyone present.

The rest of the evening unfolded beautifully, with guests celebrating in a romantic reception space while enjoying the company of family and friends. What could have easily become a stressful day instead became a wonderful reminder that the most important part of a wedding isn’t perfect weather – it’s the people surrounding you and the attitude you bring to the experience.

Caroline and Cody’s wedding was proof that even rainy wedding days can be incredibly beautiful. With a little flexibility, a great backup plan, and a couple who never lost sight of what mattered most, their celebration became one of those wedding days that everyone will remember for years to come. Sometimes the best stories begin with a forecast that doesn’t go according to plan.

The post Rainy Spring Wedding at Middleton Place // Caroline + Cody appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Vibrant Pink + Green Forest Lake Club Wedding in Columbia SC // Ansley + James

Dana — Sun, 31 May 2026 02:04:55 +0000

Some wedding days are beautiful because of the details. Others are beautiful because of the people. Ansley and James’ wedding in Columbia, South Carolina was the rare combination of both.

After seven years together, these two gathered their favorite people for a celebration that felt joyful, colorful, and completely centered on the relationships that matter most. From their ceremony at Eastminster Presbyterian Church to their reception at Forest Lake Club, every part of the day reflected who they are – warm, welcoming, and genuinely fun to be around.

Now living in Charleston, Ansley and James returned to Columbia to celebrate with family and friends, and the entire weekend felt like one big reunion. Everywhere I looked, there were hugs, laughter, happy tears, and people who were truly excited to be there. The love surrounding these two was impossible to miss.

Their pink and green color palette brought so much life and personality to the day. Soft blushes, vibrant pinks, fresh greens, and romantic floral designs created a look that felt timeless while still feeling playful and fun. I especially loved how the bridesmaids each wore complementary shades and patterns, creating a look that was colorful, elegant, and perfectly suited to the joyful atmosphere of the day.

But more than anything, what stands out when I think back on this wedding is simply how much fun it was. Ansley and James have a way of making everyone around them feel comfortable, and their families are every bit as wonderful. The entire weekend felt relaxed, genuine, and filled with the kind of happiness that can’t be planned or staged. Watching the two of them together made it easy to see why they’ve built such a strong foundation over the past seven years. Whether they were sharing quiet moments during portraits or laughing with friends on the dance floor, there was a natural ease between them that made every interaction feel authentic.

Ansley and James, thank you for allowing me to be part of such a special day. Celebrating alongside you, your families, and your friends was an absolute joy, and your wedding is one I’ll remember for a very long time. From the beautiful pink and green details to the incredible people who filled every corner of the day with love and laughter, it was the perfect beginning to this next chapter together.

The post Vibrant Pink + Green Forest Lake Club Wedding in Columbia SC // Ansley + James appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Pastel Spring Wedding at Ford Field and River Club in Savannah // Maren + Kevin

Dana — Fri, 15 May 2026 14:35:26 +0000

Maren and Kevin’s wedding at Ford Field + River Club in Savannah was the kind of day that felt effortlessly relaxed from beginning to end. Set beneath the Spanish moss and overlooking the water, every part of their celebration embraced the natural beauty of the Lowcountry while still feeling elegant, colorful, and incredibly inviting.

Living in Ohio but also owning a home within Ford Field + River Club, Savannah has become such a meaningful place for them, making it the perfect setting to gather their closest family and friends for their wedding weekend. The entire day reflected that balance of refined and comfortable – thoughtful details, beautiful design, and an atmosphere that encouraged everyone to simply enjoy being together. Their pastel color palette brought so much softness and personality to the day. Shades of lavender, pale pink, soft blue, and fresh green carried throughout the florals and reception design, creating a garden-inspired look that felt romantic without being overly formal. The floral arrangements were especially stunning, filled with movement and texture that complemented the setting so beautifully.

One of my favorite things about this wedding was how calm the entire day felt. Maren and Kevin truly gave themselves room to be present with each other and with the people they love most. Nothing felt rushed, which allowed so many genuine moments to naturally unfold throughout the day. Their waterfront portraits during sunset were especially beautiful. The soft evening light paired with the pastel tones and Savannah scenery created such a dreamy atmosphere for photos. From the ceremony in front of the iconic main house to the elegant tented reception filled with colorful florals and candlelight, every detail came together seamlessly.

Maren and Kevin’s wedding was a beautiful reminder that a wedding day doesn’t have to feel overly complicated to feel meaningful and memorable. It was relaxed, joyful, thoughtfully designed, and centered around what mattered most – celebrating alongside the people closest to them in a place they truly love.

The post Pastel Spring Wedding at Ford Field and River Club in Savannah // Maren + Kevin appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Historic Downtown Charleston Private Residence Bridal Portraits // Brianne

Dana — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:05:54 +0000

Bridal portraits offer a rare pause in the wedding season – a moment to step away from timelines and celebrations and focus entirely on the bride herself.

Bri’s bridal portrait session took place at a private residence in downtown Charleston, and the setting could not have been more perfect. Rich teal walls, layered textures, patterned wallpaper, and thoughtful design details created a backdrop that felt both vibrant and timeless – a beautiful reflection of Charleston’s signature charm. Every room offered something new: dramatic color, soft natural light, and distinctive character that made each portrait feel completely unique.

Against these richly designed interiors, Bri’s gown felt especially striking. The delicate floral appliqué, fitted silhouette, and soft overskirt created a look that was both elegant and modern, while still carrying that unmistakable bridal romance. With her hair swept back and a simple bouquet in hand, the focus stayed exactly where it belonged – on her.

One of the things I love most about sessions like this is the freedom they allow. Without the pace and emotion of a wedding day timeline, there’s time to move slowly, explore beautiful light, and create portraits that feel polished yet relaxed. For Bri, that meant wandering through rooms filled with color and texture, pausing by tall windows and tucked-away corners, and letting the home itself become part of the story.

The result was a collection of portraits that feel refined yet effortless – classic Charleston elegance with just the right amount of personality. Here are some of my favorites from her bridal portrait session in this private residence in downtown Charleston…

The post Historic Downtown Charleston Private Residence Bridal Portraits // Brianne appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.

Romantic Green + White Cannon Green Wedding in Charleston // Dana + Hayden

Dana — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 18:55:31 +0000

Some wedding days just feel easy in the best possible way – not because nothing is happening, but because everything unfolds exactly as it should, surrounded by the people who matter most. Dana and Hayden’s celebration at Cannon Green was exactly that kind of day.

The morning began at their home here in Charleston, a space that already holds so much of their everyday life together. Starting the day there set the tone for everything that followed – relaxed, personal, and completely centered on what matters most to them. After a sweet First Look in their courtyard, we wandered through downtown for portraits before the ceremony, taking advantage of the quiet charm of Charleston streets and that soft, familiar light that always feels like home.

Every part of their day reflected their people. Dana’s sister stood by her side as Maid of Honor, Hayden’s brother as his best man, and her three nieces brought so much sweetness (and just the right amount of energy!) as flower girls. And of course, Pepperoni – their dog – made his debut as ring bearer, which somehow was only topped by the custom ice sculpture of him greeting guests at the reception. Equal parts hilarious and iconic.

Set against a palette of greens and whites, their design felt fresh, natural, and understated, with soft moments of color woven in throughout the reception. It all complemented the space at Cannon Green so effortlessly – nothing felt overdone, just thoughtfully layered and true to them. Their ceremony tucked into the courtyard felt intimate and full of heart, and as the evening unfolded, the celebration took on a life of its own.

Guests wandered between cocktails, a gelato cart, and a live watercolor artist capturing couples in real time – details that felt interactive and intentional without ever interrupting the flow of the night. At one point, Hayden picked up a guitar and performed during the reception, a moment that felt completely natural and so uniquely them. It wasn’t planned for show – it was just another extension of who they are.

But more than anything, what stood out was the feeling. There was a constant sense of connection – between Dana and Hayden, between their families, between every single person in the room. The kind of energy you can’t manufacture. The kind that reminds you why these days matter in the first place. This wedding filled my soul in a way that’s hard to put into words. It was joyful, relaxed, and deeply personal – a celebration that didn’t try to be anything other than exactly what it was. And that’s what made it unforgettable.

The post Romantic Green + White Cannon Green Wedding in Charleston // Dana + Hayden appeared first on Charleston Wedding Photographer | Dana Cubbage.