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Willow Britt

Evan & Melissa’s Intimate Smith Mountain Lake Destination Wedding | Roanoke Wedding Photographer

This wedding is just a tiny bit more special than most, because it took place at my favorite place on this planet: Smith Mountain Lake! I was so honored to be an associate second shooter for this Willow Britt Studios couple, Melissa and Evan. (For those of you that don’t yet know, I shoot weddings as a Willow Britt associate in addition to serving my own ENP couples!) When Stacie commissioned me to shoot with my colleague Jeanine for this, I couldn’t say no!

Melissa and Evan held an intimate micro-wedding at an Air-BnB lake house facing the main mountain on the lake. Both are from Florida, and found SML when searching for the perfect place to say “I do” for their destination event. Lucky them that they stumbled across what I believe to be the most beautiful spot in Virginia (but I’m biased)!

Though I live in DC and mostly serve Richmond, Charlottesville, Northern Virginia, and the DMV, I love traveling down to my parents lake house at SML to visit AND work. This is my first wedding on Smith Mountain Lake, and I will also say “I do” not far from where Melissa and Evan did!

That said, I can’t wait to share their images. But I thought I’d also share my wealth of local knowledge for anyone thinking about planning their own wedding at SML!

The Prettiest Views of the Lake

In my opinion, there are very few “ugly” sides of the lake. SML offers gorgeous sunsets on the west side, and peaceful sunrises on the east. But if you’re looking for a specific backdrop in your photos, this tip should help you time your wedding day accordingly.

If you want the famous mountain range in your photos (like Melissa and Evan have), then you will get the best light in the morning! If your venue has a lake shore that allows for mountainous views, later weddings might put the sun right in your face which isn’t ideal for pictures. Melissa and Evan had a morning wedding, which helped them avoid dark under-eye shadows and kept their faces more evenly lit when shooting with the mountain behind them. However, they also had an overcast day which made those blues and greens pop all the more.

But if you’re looking for stunning sunset skies (and I mean breathtaking!) then you’ll want to check out venues whose shores face away from the mountain! I’ll share some of my suggestions on SML wedding venues next.

Smith Mountain Lake Wedding Venues

Smith Mountain Lake has so many great options for hosting your special day. Our wedding day is going to be at Waters Edge Golf and Country Club! We’ll mostly have views at sunset, but I’m getting ready at my parent’s lake house which has more mountain views in the morning. Here are some other options to consider:

  • Waters Edge Golf and Country Club (my wedding venue)
  • Bernard’s Landing
  • Mariner’s Landing (this was my sister’s wedding venue)
  • various Air-BnBs (perfect for micro weddings)
  • Virginia Dare Cruises & Marina

Other venues that are not on the water but within a drivable distance include:

Smith Mountain Lake Wedding Vendors

Lastly, if you need vendors for making your SML wedding perfect, here are all the vendors I am using for my big day!!

  • Kay’s Corner – dress alterations
  • Homestead Creamery – ice cream instead of a wedding cake!
  • Men’s Wearhouse Roanoke – the guys’ suit rentals
  • Antonina’s Floral Design – my bouquet
  • Aztec Rentals – chair rentals
  • Waters Edge Country Club – venue AND catering service
  • Modern Nails – where I’ll be getting my bridal mani-pedi done
  • Eric & Co. – my hair stylist, ask for Nicole — she’s great!
  • C Hope Makeup – my makeup artist, Cassidy is amazing!
  • Top Shelf Events – our wedding day coordinators, Michael Barbour is our lead planner.

Of course there are lots of other great vendors around, but these are the folks I trusted to handle my special day so I felt this was the best vouching I could do.

But if you need more convincing to hold a wedding at SML, I’ll let Melissa and Evan’s images do their magic!

Gorgeous Smith Mountain Lake wedding venues and vendors
Gorgeous Smith Mountain Lake wedding venues and vendors
Gorgeous Smith Mountain Lake wedding venues and vendors
Gorgeous Smith Mountain Lake wedding venues and vendors
Gorgeous Smith Mountain Lake wedding venues and vendors
Gorgeous Smith Mountain Lake wedding venues and vendors

If you’re sold on a Smith Mountain Lake wedding, but want photos like this, let’s talk! I would LOVE to work with you, and because SML is a home away from home for me, I won’t even need to charge for lodging. Let’s make your special day here even more perfect, together! Contact me.

For more of my work with Willow Britt Studios, check out this engagement session with another WB couple, Rylie and Don! Or if you’d like to see work with my ENP Couples, check out some recent sessions/weddings below:

Looking for inspiration to help you plan your Smith Mountain Lake wedding?

In this post, I'm gushing over Melissa and Evan's wedding day in the area where I basically grew up -- Smith Mountain Lake! Learn all about:

1. What time of day gives the best light for wedding photos with the mountain side of the lake.
2. Learn what wedding venues are available right on the water. 
3. See a list of my favorite local wedding vendors near the lake!

Check out my work from this Smith Mountain Lake wedding on the blog. #roanokeweddingphotographer

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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.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side images of Spanish moss at a Savannah wedding venue

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.

Wormsloe Historic Site

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.

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

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.

The Savannah Yacht Club

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.

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

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

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.

The Mackey House

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.

The Ford Field & River Club

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

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

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.

Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | side by side photos, left side image shows a long rectangle table set for a wedding reception amidst live oak trees draped with Spanish moss; right side photo shows a set of gold wedding rings next to a strand of Spanish moss

Tips for Choosing Between These Savannah Wedding Venues

  1. 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.
  2. 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!
  3. 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!
  4. 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.
Savannah wedding venues, list of the best venues from a SAV wedding photographer who shoots light and airy style wedding photos | photo shows a wedding couple kissing under the Spanish moss, wearing a light grey linen suit (groom) and an off-the-shoulder satin wedding gown (bride)

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.

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