A Summer Wedding Soiree: Colorful Wedding & Engagement Photography in Athens, GA

Rachel White
Aug 5, 2025
3 min read

Colorful Wedding & Engagement Photography in Athens, GA

From botanical garden blooms to golden-hour vows, this vibrant Georgia celebration was full of love, light, and unforgettable details.

couple's veil shot photography near athens ga

A Spring Engagement at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia

We first met Maria and Mitchell on a warm spring afternoon in Athens, Georgia, for their engagement session at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia—one of our all-time favorite spots for romantic, nature-filled portraits. Spring had just begun to bloom, bringing soft pinks, fresh greens, and pops of florals that made the whole session feel like a storybook.

Maria and Mitchell were effortless together—easygoing, joyful, and deeply connected. With winding garden paths, open meadows, and the golden light filtering through the trees, the setting was a perfect match for their energy. We love when couples choose a location that means something to them, and this one set the tone for everything that followed.

The Botanical Gardens Engagement Highlight Gallery:

A Watkinsville Wedding Full of Southern Charm

Later that summer, we joined them again to photograph their wedding at a beautiful old home just outside Athens, GA. Though Maria and Mitchell now live in New York City, they brought their closest friends and family down South for a celebration that felt both intimate and incredibly joyful.

The property had the kind of timeless, historic beauty that makes Athens-area weddings so special—weathered porches, tall trees, and warm light pouring through the landscape. From the very beginning, the day was full of color, laughter, and a deep sense of meaning.

Golden Hour Ceremony Under the Trees

Maria and Mitchell said their vows beneath towering trees as the sun began to dip, casting that magical golden-hour glow that photographers dream about. It was one of those quiet, emotional moments where everything seemed to pause—the light was soft and golden, and the love between them was radiant.

The natural setting added so much texture and depth to the ceremony: dappled light through the leaves, soft shadows dancing across the grass, and just enough breeze to give Maria’s veil a life of its own. It was a perfect blend of emotion, nature, and light—truly a highlight of the day.

A Tent Reception with Bright Details & Infectious Joy

After the ceremony, guests moved to a classic white tented reception filled with cheerful color and Southern elegance. The décor was bold yet tasteful, with florals and accents that reflected Maria and Mitchell’s playful, sophisticated style. The bridesmaids wore stunning yellow dresses, a detail that brought a burst of sunshine to every photo they were in.

The evening unfolded with heartfelt toasts, great food, and so much laughter—this crowd knew how to celebrate. String lights twinkled overhead as the sun went down, and soon the dance floor was packed with guests dancing under the stars. It was one of those receptions that felt like a true gathering of love and joy, where every moment was worth remembering.

Bringing New York Love to the Georgia Countryside

Maria and Mitchell’s wedding was the perfect blend of city style and Southern warmth—a reflection of who they are as a couple. We love when our couples bring their full selves to their wedding day, and this one was rich with personality, intention, and love. From the springtime engagement session at the Athens Botanical Garden to the late summer celebration among friends and family, every detail was vibrant and true to them.

Weddings like this are why we do what we do—telling real love stories in the most beautiful places, and capturing the moments you’ll want to relive for years to come!