Bridget and Stuart both hail from the Capital of Lake Murray, though they didn’t meet until they were in college, even though they attended different schools! Their 1-hour distance didn’t keep them apart throughout college, though, and neither did the 8 hour difference they had to suffer through for a year after graduation. Clearly, this couple is meant to stand the test of time (and mileage). Though they now live in Houston, TX, they came back to South Carolina last fall for a stunning engagement session, and I knew from that day that this couple is perfect together!

Bridget and her 9 bridesmaids donned the cutest loungewear from Southern Tide while they got ready for the big day. Can you believe the view on this home? It’s perfectly nestled on a Lake Murray, SC cove, and the light was just to die for! Bridget’s father had one of the best reactions I’ve ever seen from a “father’s first look”, and while Stuart and Bridget chose not to see each other before the ceremony, their quiet moments reading letters they’d written to each other were equally moving.

Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Chapin has some of the best open space and light of any Columbia-area churches, and the wedding mass by Father Dennis was beautiful. After a full mass, a busy day of preparations, and announcing the new Mr. and Mrs., it was off to downtown Columbia, SC for the reception at Stone River!

Let me tell you, these families know how to have fun! When the wedding party entered to Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now”, I knew it was going to be a great party. I think I slapped my second shooter and said “omg I can’t believe they’re playing this song; I LOVE this song” about forty times during the reception because their playlist plus Partytime DJ‘s amazing ability to read the crowd and keep the party going was adding up to make some stellar dance moments — oh, and an epic “Paradise by the Dashboard Light” sing-off!

If their wedding day was any indication, Bridget and Stuart have a lifetime of joy, beauty, laughter, and friendship ahead of them. I love being the person who gets to document Day 1! Now, let me stop rambling so you can enjoy their wedding day highlights!