Wedding at Duncan Estate in Spartanburg, SC
October 18, 2024
A Wedding and a Heartfelt “See You Soon”
McKenzie and Dan were married at Westminster Presbyterian Church on March 9th, 2024, followed by a, seriously, stunning reception at the Duncan Estate in Spartanburg. Y’all. It was BEAUTIFUL.
The Details
Think historic, meets garden, meets best dance floor ever?! I’m obsessed. McKenzie, a Spartanburg native, and Dan, from England, were moving to the UK after they tied the knot. So, this Spartanburg wedding was, not only a celebration, but additionally a sweet “see you soon” to their family and friends.
The Start to Their Day
The day began at the Duncan Estate, where McKenzie and her bridesmaids prepped for the day. They were dancing with each other, touching up each other’s makeup, and truly enjoying each other’s company. It was so laid-back and fun. This was something McKenzie and I had discussed beforehand. She wanted the day to be captured as naturally as it could be – with all their genuine and candid moments documented. As they continued to get ready, McKenzie’s mom helped her get into her dress. She buttoned up the back, helped her put on her shoes, and admired her daughter’s once-in-a-lifetime look.
The Girls & First Looks
After that, she had a first look with her girlfriends. The joy and excitement her bridesmaids had for her when they saw her in her wedding dress for the first time was so incredibly pure. They clapped and cheered, a few tears were shed. The excitement and sweetness continued when McKenzie had her first look with her dad. She stood on the stairs at the Duncan Estate, as her dad turned around, his arms opened wide as he looked at her in disbelief. Talk about a tender moment. SHEESH. First looks are ALWAYS sweet, slow moments during a wedding day, no matter how chaotic and fast things seem to go.
The Fellas
While the girls girled, Dan and his groomsmen geared up with the usual rituals—playing some pool, hanging out, steaming suits and fixing their hair. They took turns using the lint roller and getting polished up in their suits.
The rest of the day was spent getting some formal photos done – Dan with his groomsmen. McKenzie with her maids.
The Ceremony
The ceremony took place at Westminster Presbyterian, where McKenzie grew up going to church. It was filled with scripture, humorous marriage advice, and a whole husband and wife, y’all!!! After they came back down the aisle, they giddily ran past me, holding each other and taking in the fact that they just said “I do.”
The Evening Leading to the Epic Reception
After the ceremony, we took family portraits. They got to hug all their favorite people. We went back to the Duncan Estate for their reception. We captured relaxed and fun photos of the wedding party and the newlyweds. As McKenzie and Dan took some time for themselves, eating dinner, soaking in their moment, my photography associate and I had our quick dinner break. From there we headed into the reception.
McKenzie told me all about the evening and what she wanted from her and Dan’s reception. The whole evening was designed for connection and conversation – so true to who McKenzie and Dan are as a couple. The Duncan Estate was the perfect place to celebrate their sweet union and heartfelt “see you soon” with friends. They had a fire pit area, surrounded by chairs. Cocktail tables were set up throughout the garden area, behind the Duncan Estate, for people to gather. There were string lights under the tent that gave a romantic ambience with couches and loveseats. Everyone was chatting away, enjoying everyone’s company as the band played background music.
But, then came the dancing. Guys!! This was probably the absolute best dance floor I’ve yet to photograph. McKenzie and Dan’s friends and family danced the night away to all the wedding classics. I mean, it was actually crazy-the lineup of these songs.
A Sparkler Exit for Their Wedding in Spartanburg, SC
During the sparkler exit, McKenzie and Dan shared a sweet dip kiss—a photographer’s favorite, of courses. Afterward, they drove off into the night in a classic car, ending their fairy-tale day in style.
Capturing McKenzie and Dan’s wedding in Spartanburg, SC was an absolute joy. And, I mean, it was basically my version of a royal wedding. It was full of love, laughter, grace and unforgettable moments—a true dream.
If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Spartanburg, SC, or beyond, I’d love to help document your special day, too! I can’t wait to make your pinterest wedding dreams come true.
xx Mae
