Alexander Homestead Wedding | Michael and Elizabeth | Charlotte, NC

There are some people you just grow up knowing. Michael and I went to the same small religious grade school, the same middle school, the same high school, and eventually ended up at Appalachian State together for college. When you come up through schools that small, you know everyone. So when I showed up for Micheal’s Alexander Homestead wedding, it felt like one of those full-circle moments that makes this job so special! He mentioned early on that he was planning an Alexander Homestead wedding white suit look, and I was immediately excited. A white suit in that spring garden? Yes please. If you have been dreaming of an Alexander Homestead wedding, just wait until you see these photos.

And then the wedding day itself was just… so good. I left Alexander Homestead that evening feeling completely full. Here is everything I want you to know about it:

The Day That Defied the Forecast

The weather app was not doing anyone any favors heading into that weekend. Clouds, a chill, not exactly the spring dream. But the day had other plans entirely. By the time we were in the garden at Alexander Homestead, the roses were blooming, the sun was out, and it was the most perfect temperature you could ask for in Charlotte in the spring! Honestly it felt like the universe was rooting for them.

Liz was stunning in her gown, and Michael wore a white suit coat with black pants and a black bow tie that looked absolutely incredible against the garden backdrop. If you are a groom considering an Alexander Homestead wedding white suit look, I am here to tell you that it photographs beautifully. That contrast against the blooming roses and the warm spring light was something else entirely. Some of my favorite frames from this whole year came out of that afternoon.

Private Vows and a Very Important Dog

One of the sweetest decisions Michael and Liz made was exchanging their vows privately during their first look, just the two of them, before the rest of the day picked up speed. No audience, no pressure. Just them, saying the things they actually wanted to say to each other. I always love when couples choose to do this because something shifts in the photos after that moment. They just look so settled and so happy when they were finished.

Their Basenji mix joined them for portraits and served as the official ring bearer, and he took his role very seriously (when he was not busy charming every single guest within a ten foot radius). Photographing dogs at weddings is one of my favorite things, and this guy did not disappoint!

Kentucky Derby Day Energy

Here is the thing about Michael and Liz’s wedding date: it was Kentucky Derby day. And this group of people was absolutely here for it. The reception had the race streaming and the energy in that room was genuinely so fun. Liz had placed her bet on a horse called Great White, who unfortunately scratched after throwing his jockey before the race even ran. I happened to have my camera pointed in exactly the right direction when she found out, and that candid frame is one of my favorites from the entire wedding day. Pure, unfiltered reaction! It is the kind of photo that is going to make people laugh for years!

The guest count was small and completely intentional, which meant the room was full of people who really, truly love Michael and Liz. That kind of intimacy makes everything feel warmer, and it came through in every single photo.

Why I Love Shooting at Alexander Homestead

If you are newly engaged and in the middle of venue research, I want to put Alexander Homestead on your radar if it is not already there. It is one of my favorite places to photograph in Charlotte, and spring is honestly its most beautiful season. The roses, the garden light, the historic home in the background. There is truly no bad angle on this property.

I have now photographed several weddings here and every single one has given me something new to work with. It is the kind of venue that brings out beautiful, genuine moments, and that makes my job feel easy.

If you are searching for an Alexander Homestead wedding photographer, I would love to connect. Reach out through my contact page and let’s start talking about your day. I cannot wait to hear about it!

And if you want my guide that includes everything you need to know about a wedding at Alexander Homestead, you can check it out here!

Now please enjoy some of my favorites from Michael and Liz’s wedding day!

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