There’s something truly magical about photographing a maternity session for dear friends—especially when it takes place at one of the most charming little venues I’ve ever visited. Savvy and AJ are expecting their first baby, a sweet boy named Westley, in early June, and I had the joy of documenting this beautiful milestone in their lives. We chose to photograph at The Marigold Greenhouse, a brand new venue tucked away in China Grove, NC, and it did not disappoint—even with the unexpected weather!
The plan was to catch that dreamy golden hour glow during the evening, but Mother Nature had other ideas. As soon as we arrived, the skies opened up and we were met with a steady downpour! You know what they say about the weather in North Carolina: if you don’t like it, just wait 10 minutes! Thankfully, The Marigold Greenhouse provided the perfect cozy shelter. Nestled among greenhouse fabrics, vintage Victorian couches, and blooming flower beds, we embraced the moody light and made some magic happen! The rain created a soft soundtrack in the background while the chandeliers inside added a romantic glow that elevated the entire shoot.
I have learned that, no matter what the weather looks like, to always come prepared. I brought along my light stand, which allowed us to work with the darker natural light and still achieve bright, airy portraits that radiate warmth. Inside the greenhouse, everything was styled to perfection—new window installations let in just enough filtered light, while layers of drapery and greenery created a whimsical, timeless feel. We moved between flower arches, antique mirrors, and plush seating, taking full advantage of every corner the venue had to offer.
This session felt like a celebration—not just of a new life, but of friendship, beauty, and adaptability. Savvy and AJ glowed with anticipation for baby Westley, and the way they embraced the moment (rain and all) made the photos even more special. One of my favorite parts of working in spaces like The Marigold Greenhouse is how they allow for creativity, even when the weather isn’t ideal. Every detail, down to the exact yardage of fabric used in the draping, is curated to offer a stunning backdrop for intimate moments like these.
China Grove is a charming small town in Rowan County, North Carolina, known for its friendly community and rich agricultural roots. Just a short drive from larger cities like Charlotte and Salisbury, China Grove offers a peaceful, rural setting with scenic landscapes, historic buildings, and a growing number of unique venues like The Marigold Greenhouse. It’s a hidden gem for portraits, weddings, and anyone seeking a quiet, picturesque backdrop with Southern charm.
For anyone looking for a unique and romantic space to capture life’s biggest milestones, The Marigold Greenhouse is an absolute dream. It’s quickly becoming a favorite among NC photographers & videographers, and it’s easy to see why. From early spring blooms to the warm textures of vintage décor, this venue brings charm and character to every image. Plus, with this venue being just up the way in China Grove, it makes it a very convenient place for people living in the city to travel to for stunning images. If you’d like to see another one of my favorite China Grove venues, check out this family session at The Villa Franca!
Whether you’re expecting a little one or just celebrating a new chapter in life, never underestimate the beauty of embracing the unexpected. Sometimes, the best photos happen when the rain starts falling—and luckily you have a warm greenhouse to keep you dry!
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