There's something truly magical about a Charleston wedding day when everything aligns perfectly – the weather, the setting, the details, and most importantly, the love between two people. As a Charleston wedding photographer, I was thrilled to document Johanna and Jared's special day at The Island House on Johns Island, one of the Lowcountry's most picturesque waterfront wedding venues.

A Love Story That Blossomed During Unprecedented Times


Before we dive into their beautiful wedding day, let's take a moment to appreciate how Johanna and Jared's journey began. Their love story started in the workplace, where Jared was immediately drawn to Johanna, though she was initially unaware of his interest. As colleagues, they built a foundation of friendship that would eventually transform into something much deeper.


When 2020 arrived with all its challenges, their connection quickly escalated. Perhaps it was the uncertainty of the times or the reminder of what truly matters in life, but amid a global pandemic, Johanna and Jared found certainty in each other. What began as workplace conversations blossomed into a love strong enough to withstand unprecedented times – a testament to the foundation they had built together.

Charleston Waterfront Wedding Venue: The Island House on Johns Island


With temperatures in the low 60s and clear skies, we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day for a wedding at The Island House. This stunning waterfront property offers sweeping views of the Stono River and embodies quintessential Lowcountry charm with its sprawling oak trees and picturesque surroundings.


The couple infused their day with a playful "Forever Young" theme, beautifully reflected in their personal touches and custom golf ball "partee" favors (a clever nod to Jared's passion for golf).

Meaningful Moments: A Day of Connection


Among the most touching moments was Johanna and Jared's private first touch before the ceremony. While saving the full reveal for the aisle, they shared an emotional exchange of private vows while standing back-to-back. This intimate moment allowed them to connect and center themselves amid the excitement of the day.


Johanna looked absolutely breathtaking in her Paloma Blanca gown from Gown Boutique of Charleston. When she later walked down the aisle, Jared's expression captured pure love and awe – one of those perfect moments that reminds me why I love Charleston wedding photography.

Charleston Waterfront Wedding Ceremony


The ceremony site along the picturesque Stono River featured lush florals by Coastal Creations Floral that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of the waterfront setting. Their personalized ceremony struck the perfect balance between emotional and lighthearted, reflecting the couple's relationship and surrounded by those they love most.

Lowcountry Golden Hour: Charleston Wedding Photography at Sunset


The timing couldn't have been more perfect for golden hour portraits along the waterfront. As the sun began to set, we captured some of the day's most magical moments between the newlyweds. The warm glow of sunset across the Stono River created a dreamlike backdrop for Johanna and Jared's first portraits as husband and wife.

Celebrating in Style: The Reception


Their reception embodied the joyful spirit of the "Forever Young" theme throughout. From the couple's romantic first dance to heartwarming parent dances, the emotional moments were balanced with plenty of celebration. Lewis BBQ provided mouth-watering catering while Carmella's delivered delectable desserts that guests couldn't stop raving about.


One of the most meaningful moments came when Johanna surprised guests with a dress change that carried special significance. She had lovingly redesigned her mother's wedding dress into the cutest two-piece party dress—a beautiful way to honor family tradition while adding her own modern style. This sentimental transformation perfectly captured the blend of past and present that made their day so special.


With Johanna in her reimagined family heirloom and Jared by her side, the dance floor stayed packed all evening as Zach Bedell and his band kept the energy high. The celebration concluded with a romantic bubble send-off as the newlyweds departed in style with Charleston Black Cab Company.

The Dream Team


A wedding day this beautiful comes together with the help of incredible vendors, and Johanna and Jared had assembled the best of Charleston's wedding industry:


Johanna and Jared, thank you for allowing me to be part of your incredible Charleston wedding day. Your love story is one for the books, and I'm honored to have captured these memories that you'll cherish forever. Congratulations to the newlyweds – may you truly stay "Forever Young" at heart!

Charleston, Baltimore, Annapolis & DC couples: Your love story deserves to be beautifully documented! I create authentic, joyful wedding photography for couples in Maryland/DC and throughout Charleston's most stunning venues. Whether you're planning a Lowcountry destination wedding or celebrating closer to home in the DMV area, I'd love to be part of your day. Now booking 2025/2026 weddings—contact me today to check availability for your special date!