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I am so pleased to be able to share this FULL second shooter gallery from Erin and Robert Kovarik’s wedding last month! This wedding was a lot of fun for me. It was the first wedding I stayed for nearly the whole day. But it was also a test of my endurance and creativity.
Credit Where It’s Due
I took these images as a second shooter for Chelsea Schaefer. Chelsea reached out to me on Instagram after seeing photos I took for one of her friends. She noticed on one of my posts about wanting to enter the wedding industry, and was so kind to give me an opportunity to second shoot for her!
The Venue
The wedding took place at Mount Ida Farm in Charlottesville, Virginia. Chelsea had photographed a number of weddings at that location, so I was excited to see how she approached the venue with so much experience and expertise! Mount Ida had everything a quintessential Virginian wedding needed: rolling hills, white picket fencing, luscious greenery, a beautiful lodge reception hall, and an elegant, willow-framed gazebo overlooking the pond.
Introducing Mr. and Mrs. Kovarik
Even more photogenic than the venue was our couple — Erin and Robert. Erin was a sweet and gentle redhead, and a gorgeous bride! Her dress had beautiful lace detail with an open V-cut back and linen buttons. Her bouquet, which was the subject of one of my favorite images from the whole day, was stuffed with vibrant pink peonies, delicate eucalyptus stems, and pastel roses.
Robert was very kind, and super smiley all day (who wouldn’t be, marrying a gorgeous girl like Erin)! He wore a black tuxedo with a bowtie, and a white boutonniere that beautifully complimented Erin’s bouquet.
Things I Learned
My photography skills expanded in a lot of different areas on their wedding day. First of all, I shot with Chelsea’s back-up Canon EOS 6D camera… a first for me, handling a full-frame on a wedding day. I also was able to borrow her more advanced lenses, shooting with a 50mm f/1.4 for much of the day (an envied upgrade from my little “nifty fifty” 50mm f/1.8).
Lastly, I had a ton of fun practicing with a flash and OCF (off-camera flash) system for the first time! All of the party dancing at the reception were taken using Canon flashes. And you better believe I was dancing the whole time!!
The Full Gallery
Below is just a sample of some of my favorite images from the day, but if you want to see ALL of the images I took, visit my portfolio gallery here!
I’m so grateful to Chelsea for letting me learn from her and assist at this wedding. I gained experience well beyond the quality of photos I was able to add to my portfolio. And I also gained a friend in her. I look forward to connecting again and am so blown away by the support I’ve received from photographers like her to develop my skills and grow my own business in this otherwise competitive industry!
Booking for 2020!
If you are a wedding photographer looking for a second shooter in 2019-2020, please consider me! To date, I have 5 weddings of experience that I will continue to share in the coming weeks, and a passion to make up for all the experience I’ve yet to gain. Contact me here for more info on how to connect with me for your next wedding!
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Planning your wedding in Savannah, Georgia, provides you with so many options in a city full of Southern charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking low-country beauty. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden ceremony, a grand ballroom reception, or something in between, Savannah seems to have wedding venues for every taste. As a Georgia wedding photographer, I’ve done the research so you don’t have to.
Why You Should Consider Savannah Wedding Venues
Savannah is a city unlike any other. With its oak-lined streets, historic homes, and timeless coastal views, it’s no surprise that couples flock here to tie the knot. Savannah wedding venues offer something for everyone—from intimate settings surrounded by nature to grand estates steeped in history. Plus, its mild climate makes it a perfect choice for weddings year-round.
Top Savannah Wedding Venues to Consider
Hotel Bardo (formerly, The Mansion on Forsyth Park)
For couples seeking a venue that provides a fun vintage aesthetic amidst classic Savannah landmarks, Hotel Bardo is one of Savannah’s crown jewels. This venue combines historic charm with mid-century modern sophistication, offering everything from intimate indoor spaces to a picturesque garden courtyard.
For those who want to embrace Savannah’s natural beauty, Wormsloe Historic Site provides one of the most iconic backdrops in the city. The long driveway lined with towering live oaks draped in Spanish moss is a bride’s dream. It’s a serene, ethereal setting perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.
If waterfront views are your vibe, The Westin Savannah Harbor offers a stunning riverside backdrop. With expansive lawns overlooking the Savannah River, this venue blends elegance and nature seamlessly. Plus, the convenience of on-site accommodations makes it ideal for your out-of-town guests.
Couples who envision a sophisticated coastal wedding will fall in love with The Savannah Yacht Club. This venue offers sweeping views of the water, nautical charm, and an air of exclusivity. It’s perfect for smaller, more intimate weddings or grand celebrations with a coastal flair.
For history buffs and lovers of unique spaces, the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is a standout option. This venue features a lush garden courtyard and historic exhibits that add personality and charm to your wedding. The combination of indoor and outdoor spaces offers flexibility for your big day.
Bethesda Academy boasts one of Savannah’s most stunning natural landscapes, featuring majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss and rolling green fields. Its historic chapel and beautiful outdoor spaces create a dreamy, intimate setting perfect for a romantic Low-Country-inspired wedding.
Tucked away in a private estate surrounded by nature, The Mackey House is a venue straight out of a fairytale. With a grand Southern-style mansion, lush gardens, and a peaceful lake, it’s the perfect place for an outdoor wedding full of whimsy and charm.
Located just outside Savannah in Richmond Hill, this venue exudes refined Southern elegance. The sprawling estate features scenic views of the Ogeechee River, romantic oak groves, and luxurious accommodations, making it a perfect choice for an intimate yet grand wedding experience.
The Harper Fowlkes House is a historic and elegant mansion nestled in the heart of Savannah’s historic district. With its Greek Revival architecture, sweeping staircase, and lush gardens, this venue exudes timeless sophistication and charm. The courtyard garden is ideal for an intimate outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, while the mansion’s interior offers a beautifully preserved space for receptions with intricate details like antique furnishings and grand windows.
The Kehoe House is a stunning, historic mansion located in the heart of Savannah’s Historic District. Built in 1892, this stately home is an exquisite example of Renaissance Revival architecture. Known for its ornate ironwork, grand interiors, and warm Southern hospitality, the Kehoe House is ideal for couples seeking a venue with timeless elegance and charm.
Tips for Choosing Between These Savannah Wedding Venues
Consider Your Guest List Size Savannah wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. From intimate gardens to sprawling estates, ensure the venue you choose comfortably accommodates your guest list.
Think About Your Wedding Style Your venue should reflect your wedding vision. Are you dreaming of timeless elegance, coastal charm, or a whimsical outdoor affair? Savannah has venues that can bring any aesthetic to life, but the wrong venue can make your details and decor appear out of place. Make the most of that investment (and wedding photos) by choosing a venue that harmonizes with your style!
Factor in Logistics From transportation to accommodations, Savannah is known for its hospitality, but it’s wise to consider the proximity of your venue to hotels and local attractions for your guests’ convenience. Consider traffic, city events on or around your wedding day that may cause disruption, and other logistics your guests may face. A wedding planner will help you navigate all the unexpected challenges with ease!
Book Early Savannah is a popular wedding destination, especially in spring and fall. To secure your dream venue, book your Savannah wedding venue as early as possible! Then secure primary vendors on your list such as photographer, videographer, planner (if you don’t yet have one) and more.
Making the Most of Savannah Wedding Venues
Choosing one of Savannah’s stunning wedding venues is just the beginning. Personalize your celebration with touches that reflect your interests and love story. Whether it’s incorporating local cuisine like shrimp and grits, offering your guests trolley rides through the historic district, or having your photos taken under the iconic Spanish moss, Savannah is full of ways to make your wedding day an unforgettable experience for all.
Planning a wedding is no small task, but having a photographer who knows and loves the charm of Savannah can make all the difference.
I specialize in creating artful images out of your favorite memories. Booking me ensures you’ll have a wedding gallery that represents the essence of your love and legacy in every image. Learn more about my services and approach here.
If you’re considering a wedding in Savannah, I’d love to capture every moment for you. Let’s connect and discuss how I can create timeless art from your most cherished memories.
