Botany Bay, Edisto Island Videographer
We are going to go on record here. If you are a true romantic at heart with a desire to celebrate love in the most natural, coastal location…plan a Charleston Elopement. Specifically, wander over the water toward Edisto Island, where you’ll find a ticket to the South Carolina Coast-untouched by modern developers and teeming with natural beauty. You can feel all of the world’s stress and worry dripping off of you as you drive through the coastal roads leading up to Botany Bay Plantation–which is near Charleston, SC.
Charleston Elopement Videographer
When Anna & Ryan reached out to us about filming their Charleston elopement, we immediately knew we were in for a gorgeous ride. Anna explained that they originally planned on eloping to Joshua Tree, California, but due to the government shut down, their plans changed. She explained that she and Ryan fell in love with Charleston, and specifically Botany Bay. The erosion on the beach has created what folks call a “boneyard” of dead trees along the sand, and the park prohibits people from collecting shells, so there are thousands scattered amongst the large tree roots, coastal loblolly pine and cabbage palmetto.
Anna & Ryan chose a large downed tree as their ceremony site-and it couldn’t have been more stunning. The dark roots of the tree were a stunning contrast to Anna’s delicate cream BHLDN gown and the soft sweetness of these two’s personal vows. (Not to mention how it protected them from the winds- as it was a chilly February day!)
The One Where Anna Marries Ryan
These two met after Anna shared a post on Facebook titled “Husband Goals.” As it turned out, they attended the same college (the University of Valley Forge) but hadn’t crossed paths until that moment in *online* history! A year and a few days later, we found ourselves living in a Nicholas Sparks movie watching these two pledge to love and serve each other forever.
Ryan proposed to Anna in Charlotte, NC while they were visiting Elevation Church for a conference. After strolling around the Botanical Garden desert room, he reminded Anna of a conversation they had a few weeks prior about some of the greatest decisions they’ve ever made. It was then that Ryan got down on one knee and told Anna that this was one of his, and asked her to marry him. Anna told us “I obvi said yes and OMG MY HEART MELTED.”
Personal Vows & An Emotional First Look
After a calm morning getting ready in two different Air Bnbs in Charleston, Anna & Ryan made the trip to Edisto Island for their first touch & ceremony. They wanted to wait to see each other until the moment Anna walked down the aisle, but also wanted to take a moment to pray for their marriage. They chose to do their first touch at the historic ice house on the Botany Bay plantation grounds. You can read all about the history of the ice house by clicking here! After praying over their marriage, it was time to make the walk to the driftwood-lined aisle. (I mean, why have a Charleston Elopement if you aren’t going to say your personal vows overlooking the coast?) As the waves crashed against the sandy shore, everyone turned toward the edge of the beach.
Everyone except for Ryan.
He waited until the very last moment—then turned around and crumpled, stunned with the beauty walking through the driftwood aisle toward him and their future.
Anna & Ryan,
We are so thankful for the opportunity to serve you two with this film. Your wedding day was stunning, but your marriage will be even more beautiful. Praying you watch this film & are reminded of that beauty often.
Megan & Kelsey
Love this film? You might also love this one! Hayden & Sarah | Emotional Farm Wedding
Want us to film your destination wedding?? Let’s talk!
Filmmakers | Megan Pettus Videography
Photographer | Sparrow And Lace Photography
Florist |Enchanted Wedding Florals & Beyond
Cake Artist |Ashley Bakery
Hair Artist | Charleston I Do
Makeup Artist | Charleston I Do
Groom’s Attire |SUIT: Express
Tie: TheTieBar.com
Bridal Gown |BHLDN