Sweety is a friend of mine from UNC, and I was so thrilled when she and her husband reached out to me to ask me to take some portraits of them in their wedding attire out on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville. They were married already but wanted some really beautiful pictures in nature to put up on their walls in their home. They are both busy dentists, and I love that they made time to go for a fancy hike with me during one of the most colorful and vibrant fall days I have ever seen.
The way the light filters through the fall leaves on those October days is really something that moves my soul and fills me with joy. It was so much fun being their guide to show them the prettiest spots near Asheville for their wedding portraits in their traditional Indian wedding attire. Sweety’s dress is called a sari, and WOW, don’t you just love the colors and patterns? It was such a treat to photograph them in their stunning clothing amidst the bright fall leaves and catch up with an old friend.
Sweety and I go way back. We spent many days studying together in the library at UNC with our friend group and having a blast out dancing on Franklin Street. I remember one time in the dining hall, I saw a girl who looked JUST like Sweety from the back, and I called out to her and was following her going, “Sweety, sweety!!!” The girl turned around and gave me the strangest look, and I realized it wasn’t Sweety after all and she was just some random girl who thought I was calling her sweetie. LOL Sweety is one of those people that are so kind and beautiful inside and out. I really enjoyed documenting this special time for Sweety and Vivek. They recently welcomed their first baby. Life moves fast!
It’s crazy how much can change in only a few years. It’s funny how many of us get engagement photos done, wedding photos, and then just do an occasional family session or just pictures of the kids once every few years. Who wants an excuse to dress up in fancy outfits and go all out? Celebrate turning 40, 50 or just because!
It can feel like a splurge to invest in professional photography for anniversary photos, a vow renewal, or just a fun photoshoot in your best outfits, but life goes fast, and I feel like it’s a beautiful way to share your legacy and document your life. It’s worth it! I’d love to craft a unique photoshoot experience for you in beautiful North Carolina. We also serve South Carolina and Virginia.
Your couples photoshoot can double as a romantic picnic date. Our team can provide a charcuterie picnic, complete with the plates, utensils, blanket, etc. so you don’t have to worry about a thing. We will carry it up a mountain for you, and clean it all up for you afterward as well and send you on your way with to-go boxes. This is great for people who don’t know what to do with their hands or who feel awkward having their photos taken. Anyone else like this? You would think being a professional photographer for years would help me not feel awkward in front of the camera but I always feel so awkward when the lens is turned my direction, so I get it! We try to make it as much fun as possible so you actually look like you are having a great time, because well… you are! Our goal is to capture those real smiles and sweet authentic moments that are a true reflection of who you are.
Our services can be utilized for marriage proposals as well. We are great at hiding out or pretending to be a random tourist photographing scenery at that perfect scenic spot with incredible mountain views. We have documented many surprise proposals. The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is one of the most popular spots for popping the question and has so much variety and special spots to propose.
We offer full service help with planning and logistics to help make sure things go smoothly for your marriage proposal. We like to have a plan A, plan B and plan C… it helps to feel prepared for anything and we have found our clients really appreciate how our planning help eases their minds so they can focus on enjoying the moment. Our photographers are all highly experienced, non-intrusive and easy going to help make you feel comfortable. Afterward, we can set up a delicious picnic with a gourmet charcuterie board, cake or a dessert platter with macaroons, cupcakes, chocolate covered strawberries, and fresh flowers straight from the local flower farm to really wow your partner and make the moment extra special.
The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most breathtaking places to take wedding-style portraits, whether you’re newly married, celebrating an anniversary, or just want an excuse to dress up and capture your love story in a stunning setting. With its sweeping mountain views, golden sunsets, and endless natural beauty, this iconic stretch of road in North Carolina is the perfect place to create timeless, romantic images.
If you and your partner want to relive the magic of your wedding day or simply embrace an elegant, adventurous photoshoot, here are a few ideas to make the most of your time on the Blue Ridge Parkway:
Put on your wedding outfits again for a session that celebrates the years you’ve spent together. Whether it’s your first anniversary or your fiftieth, stepping back into your wedding-day look in a new, breathtaking location is a beautiful way to mark the occasion.
Who says you need a wedding to dress to the nines? A flowing gown and a sharp suit can create dramatic, cinematic images against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Think windswept hair, golden-hour light, and a landscape that makes your love story look like a fairytale.
Celebrate your anniversary or special occasion with a romantic setup—maybe a cozy picnic with charcuterie, champagne, and flowers. This adds a relaxed, intimate touch to your session while making for gorgeous, editorial-style images.
A vow renewal is a beautiful way to recommit to each other and reflect on the journey you’ve shared. Unlike a wedding, a vow renewal is just for you—no pressure, no expectations, just the chance to say, “I still do” in a place that feels meaningful to you both. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small gathering with loved ones, it’s a heartfelt way to celebrate your love story.
At Golden Hour Elopements, we specialize in creating stress-free, beautifully curated experiences for couples who want to celebrate their love in nature. Whether you’re planning a vow renewal, a surprise proposal, or an intimate elopement, we handle all the details—from finding the perfect location to setting up a dreamy picnic or beautiful locally-grown floral arrangements.
Since 2002, Jenny has called North Carolina home, and she loves hiking and exploring the outdoors. That means she knows all the best hidden gems on the Blue Ridge Parkway for breathtaking photos and unforgettable experiences. Whether you want a sweeping mountaintop, a secluded waterfall, or a sun-drenched wildflower field, she can help you find the perfect spot to bring your vision to life. Our seasoned team can help you have a seamless, one of a kind experience.
If you’re dreaming of a romantic adventure, let’s make it happen! Reach out, and let’s start planning your unforgettable session in the mountains. Contact us today!