There are some weddings that stay with you long after you’ve packed up your gear, and Hope & Killian’s October wedding at Charlyn Farms in upstate South Carolina is absolutely one of them. The whole day felt like sunshine—warm, easy, full of life—and shooting it reminded me exactly why I love what I do.

I actually met Hope because one of her bridesmaids is one of my best friends, so from the moment I walked into the bridal suite, it felt like stepping into a room full of my own people. Everyone was laughing, blasting music, helping each other with hair and dresses… the kind of morning that sets the tone for a really good wedding day.

The Sweetest Tribute

One of the moments I’ll never forget happened before the ceremony. Hope had a small stuffed bear that held a lot of meaning for her. She took a photo with it during getting ready, and then during the ceremony, the bear sat in the front row in a seat reserved for her grandmother who had passed. It was such a quiet, tender tribute—nothing over-the-top, just simple and full of love. I teared up behind my camera (shocker), and I wasn’t the only one.

Charlyn Farms in the Fall is Chef’s Kiss

If you’ve never been to Charlyn Farms in late October… imagine golden light filtering through trees, a cozy barn, and just enough fall color to make every photo feel nostalgic. It’s the perfect mix of rustic charm and warm elegance—my favorite kind of backdrop. Hope & Killian chose the venue perfectly. It matched them: laid-back, joyful, and full of personality.

A Reception I’ll Never Stop Talking About

Let me tell you—Hope’s dad and brother deserve an award for bringing the energy. When I say they started the party, I mean they STARTED THE PARTY. The reception was easily one of my favorites this year. Everyone was on the dance floor. Every. Single. Person. The kind of night where the DJ doesn’t have to beg anyone to dance, and I’m sprinting around trying to capture every second because there’s just so much happening at once.

These are the receptions I live for—the ones where everyone forgets there’s a camera and just has the time of their lives.

Why This Wedding Meant So Much to Me

Being there for Hope & Killian felt special in a way that went beyond showing up and doing my job. Because I knew people in the bridal party, it felt like celebrating with friends. Hope was the calmest, sweetest bride, and Killian was so easygoing and kind. Together, they made the day feel effortless—and photographing a wedding that feels effortless is the best kind of gift.

For Couples Planning a Charlyn Farms Wedding

If you’re dreaming about a fall wedding in the upstate SC area, Charlyn Farms is truly a gem. The mix of outdoor space, cozy reception areas, and gorgeous natural light is a dream for candid, documentary-style photos. If you want photos that feel warm, authentic, and full of life, this venue is a perfect fit.