First Baptist Charleston Wedding with a Charleston Harbor Sunset Reception

Photography, Weddings

April 17, 2025

Bethany and Michael’s hearts were felt in every single moment of their wedding day. From our first phone call, I knew that both were equally invested in creating a special day for each other and their families and friends. Once we arrived on wedding day, I realized that their families and friends were just as eager to extend that love right back to the happy couple.

Bethany and Michael were wed in downtown Charleston at First Baptist Charleston in November. Personally, I love any wedding that gives me the chance to capture the charm that is downtown Charleston, specifically south of Broad Street. It was the happiest of coincidences that their wedding colors just happened to perfectly match some of my favorite portrait spots surrounding the church. We spent the early afternoon laughing with the guys and girls who were all obviously thrilled to see two their best friend marry the love of their lives.

It was very important to both Bethany and Michael to have their first time seeing each other be as Bethany walked up the aisle, so instead of opting for a first look prior to the ceremony, they opted for a “first touch” instead. In a moment of quiet, they shared their private vows to each other and prayed over the day and the lives they will lead for many years to come.

It’s difficult for me to choose a favorite moment of the day with these two, but I think it would be a cross between their exit from the church amid the cheers of their loved ones and the time we spent capturing their portraits as the sun set over the water. I mean, it was truly a BEAUTIFUL day. I don’t think they could have asked for better weather in late November!

As we joined their guests for the reception and dances, Bethany’s dad kicked things off with quite possibly the BEST father of the bride speech I’ve ever heard. Mr. Moorefield is a high school coach and even brought props along to illustrate his wedding day “pep talk.” The entire room was bursting with laughter, and once again, the love for this wonderful couple was palpable throughout.

For me, one of the hardest parts of wedding days is leaving my couple at the end of the night. At that point, I’ve spent months walking through this season of life with them, I’ve learned of the intricacies of their relationships with friends and family, and if I’ve really done my job well, it truly is like saying goodbye to a group of people that I sincerely consider like friends and family of my own. Thankfully, this won’t be the last we see of Bethany and Michael! We’ll all be making a trip to Germany in September to be a part of their friend (and bridesmaid), Emilie’s, wedding, and I cannot wait to all reunite again!