Kelly & Dustin’s Chic Farm Wedding At Cedar Creek Ranch Weddings, Charlotte
August, 28 2025




When it comes to the romance of summer weddings, garden wedding ideas effortlessly capture the magic of the season. Outdoor wedding venues, especially lush garden settings, offer a combination of natural beauty and timeless charm that can enhance any couple's special day. With blooming flowers, dappled sunlight, and the gentle scent of nature in the air, summer gardens create an unparalleled backdrop for exchanging vows.
The allure of garden wedding themes lies in their ability to blend elegance with simplicity. Couples can incorporate nature’s palette, like rich greenery, vibrant blossoms, and golden sunlight, into their decor without extra embellishment. Fairy lights draped across trees or delicate floral arches provide enchanting additions, while the surrounding natural beauty does the rest. These setups suit a variety of wedding styles, from rustic elegance to boho chic or even classic formal themes.
The summer season also complements outdoor wedding ideas perfectly. Long daylight hours allow for flexible timelines, whether couples envision a sunlit afternoon or a romantic evening ceremony under the stars. Additionally, summer gardens brim with colorful, in-season blooms like roses, peonies, and hydrangeas, which can effortlessly tie into the wedding’s colors and designs.
Another benefit of hosting a garden wedding is the abundance of photo-worthy settings. From verdant pathways to flowering backdrops, outdoor wedding venues provide endless options for stunning photography. Couples and their guests can also delight in the relaxed, open-air ambiance, creating an experience that’s both intimate and refreshing.
When we met Kelly and Dustin, we instantly felt the deep connection they shared. From the very beginning, their love story radiated joy and sincerity, creating a beautiful foundation for their summer 2025 wedding in Charlotte. The couple's warmth and clear devotion made their big day not just a celebration but a truly magical experience.
Choosing Charlotte as their wedding location was a heartfelt decision for Kelly and Dustin. The city's charm, coupled with its vibrant summer ambiance, perfectly complemented their love story. To make the memories of their special day last forever, we captured every candid smile, loving glance, and joyous moment as their team of trusted wedding photographers in Charlotte.
Through our lenses, we preserved the heartfelt moments of their wedding day, moments that reflected their genuine love. It was an honor to be part of their incredible journey, immortalizing their happiness and the start of their forever together.
Cedar Creek Ranch Weddings & Events served as the perfect stage for Kelly and Dustin’s unforgettable summer wedding in 2025. Nestled just outside Charlotte, this venue radiates upscale rustic charm, blending effortlessly with the natural countryside. Its timeless allure was further solidified by its feature on the hit show Love is Blind Season 6, making it a sought-after location for couples with a keen eye for aesthetics.
The ranch is a haven of natural beauty, boasting charming details like sprawling fields, serene ponds, and elegant ceremony spaces. These elements came together to create a backdrop worthy of a fairytale for Kelly and Dustin. Their heartfelt vows under a rustic-chic arbor, surrounded by lush greenery, perfectly aligned with the season's summery vibrancy. Inside, the event spaces exude an inviting warmth, with rich wooden accents and subtle modern touches that add sophistication to its rustic appeal.
Beyond its stunning features, Cedar Creek Ranch's location is a treasure trove for Charlotte wedding photographers. From the panoramic vistas to hidden nooks tucked within the property, every angle tells a story. Additionally, its proximity to Charlotte offers convenient access to other top-tier photography spots. Whether it’s capturing the magic of the golden hour on-site or heading downtown for dynamic cityscapes, the venue creates endless opportunities for breathtaking photos.
Charlotte offers an array of stunning wedding photo locations that showcase the city’s mix of urban charm, lush green spaces, and historic landmarks. For couples eager to preserve their special day in breathtaking settings, our wedding photographers in Charlotte excel at capturing the essence of every spot. Whether it’s dramatic cityscapes or serene nature backdrops, these top photography spots in Charlotte provide endless possibilities for memorable wedding albums.
From iconic downtown locations to hidden gems, the Queen City has everything a couple could want. The Charlotte skyline is a backdrop that dazzles from multiple vantage points, and Romare Bearden Park is a prime spot to use it. The park’s fountains and art installations contrast perfectly with the towering urban skyline, offering a balance of modernity and whimsy that we can capture expertly. Similarly, First Ward Park presents striking views of Uptown while boasting scenic fountains and plenty of open space for dynamic poses.
Forest lovers will find McDowell Nature Preserve a tranquil escape for wedding portraits. The tall trees, open fields, and the reflective waters of Lake Wylie create idyllic scenes. For a similar natural vibe, Freedom Park near Myers Park combines pristine walking trails, a picturesque lake, and charming bridges, all framed by seasonal blooms. Our wedding photographers leverage the location's variety, blending intimate and grand Charlotte wedding photography seamlessly.
Another must-visit is the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Famous for its manicured gardens, the location bursts with vibrant flowers and elegant structures, such as fountains and pergolas. Whether couples desire romantic pathways surrounded by greenery or magical indoor conservatories, the garden delivers. Meanwhile, Wing Haven Gardens provides a smaller, more intimate vibe. Its historic charm and secret-garden aesthetics are perfect for softer, intimate portraits.
For couples who appreciate history, the VanLandingham Estate is a photogenic haven. Set in a historic neighborhood, this location combines old-world charm with floral beauty, making it a timeless addition to wedding photo locations in Charlotte. Similarly, the Duke Mansion in Myers Park exudes elegance with its columned architecture and impeccably landscaped grounds. Both these iconic sites allow us to craft images where romance and history intertwine seamlessly.
No list would be complete without mentioning Optimist Hall. Known for its chic industrial vibes, colorful murals, and vibrant food scene, Optimist Hall is ideal for contemporary couples who want to add personality to their wedding portraits. Capturing the fun, urban details here offers a playful yet stylish touch that contrasts beautifully with traditional wedding attire.
Lake Norman, a short drive from Charlotte, provides another versatile backdrop. Whether it’s the serene waters or dockside views, Lake Norman offers dreamy, reflective shots perfect for sunset sessions. Anne Springs Close Greenway in Fort Mill, another quick getaway, immerses couples in rolling meadows, wooded trails, and rustic barns, making it one of the most versatile photography locations near Charlotte.
The Mint Museum, Uptown and in Randolph, offers fantastic backdrops for couples looking for something museum-inspired. Whether it’s the striking modern architecture of the Uptown location or the classic elegance of the Randolph site, every angle here creates an iconic frame for wedding photos.
For Charlotte newcomers, the South End neighborhood offers colorful murals, quirky coffee shops, and industrial streetscapes. Bland Street and the Rail Trail, in particular, are standout spots for couples who want a mix of urban and artsy. Similarly, the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art is a photographer’s dream. Its unique architecture and public art installations provide dynamic visuals perfect for artsy, young-at-heart couples.
The Charlotte Convention Center and its surrounding areas, like the NASCAR Hall of Fame, provide innovative, modern backdrops combined with a sense of the city’s culture. These spots are great for couples looking to add a touch of city pride to their wedding photos. Meanwhile, Fourth Ward offers historic streets with Victorian homes, cobblestone paths, and tree-lined sidewalks for a touch of Southern charm.
Your wedding photography in Charlotte can capitalize on the diversity of these spots, delivering galleries that reflect not just the couple’s love story but also the unique essence of their chosen locations. Whether it’s the quiet intimacy of a botanical garden or the edgy grit of industrial neighborhoods, we promise to capture every angle, ensuring your wedding day remains unforgettable.
The wedding day of Kelly and Dustin in Charlotte was a heartfelt celebration filled with tender moments, elegant details, and picturesque surroundings. Set against a stunning garden wedding venue in Charlotte, their day was flawlessly encapsulated by the artistry of Charlotte wedding photographers, ensuring every magical second was preserved forever.
The morning began with an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. Kelly and Dustin prepared in their respective suites, each brimming with emotion and memories waiting to be captured. The bride’s suite was adorned with delicate details that set the stage for beautiful getting-ready photos. Wedding detail shots brought her day to life with images of her golden bridal shoes, chic wedding perfumes, and his-and-her vow books. The sunflower-themed elements like Kelly's bouquet added a radiant pop of color to every frame.
Kelly’s bridal suite buzzed with energy as she and her bridesmaids donned elegant getting-ready robes. Laughter echoed through the room as they shared drinks, created lasting memories, and posed for playful bridesmaid portraits. Meanwhile, in the groom’s suite, Dustin and his groomsmen were captured in candid moments of camaraderie. Together, their fun and joy were perfectly translated into stunning groomsmen portraits.
When it was time to dress, Kelly transformed into the epitome of bridal elegance with her chic convertible wedding gown. Layers of tulle sparkled under the light, while off-the-shoulder sleeves and her cathedral-length veil added grace and drama. Completing her look was her flowing open hairstyle adorned with a flower comb, neutral-toned makeup, and her sunflower wedding bouquet. Dustin, equally dashing, matched her elegance in a royal blue three-piece suit, finished with a textured tie, sunflower boutonniere, and glossy black shoes.
One of the most enchanting moments arrived early in the day with Kelly and Dustin’s emotional first-look photo session. This private, quiet meeting exuded raw love and set the tone for their day. The couple’s joy and vulnerability were effortlessly captured in intimate, tearful photographs, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Their ceremony unfolded in the lush garden venue, where nature enhanced every inch of decor. Kelly walked down an aisle lined with summer wedding flowers, rustic wooden pews, and mirror wedding signs that reflected the surrounding greenery. Overcast skies added a soft, diffused light that Charlotte wedding photographers skillfully used to create romantic, heartfelt ceremony images. The rustic wooden arch adorned with seasonal blooms formed the perfect frame for them to exchange their vows, making for timeless photographs capturing every tear, smile, and kiss.
Following the ceremony, it was time for wedding group portraits that celebrated the joy of family and friendship. The groomsmen’s regal postures, the bridesmaids’ grace, and the couple’s intimate interactions with their loved ones were all photographed around the picturesque venue. The couple’s solo portraits were a standout, showcasing the garden’s vibrant greenery, rustic charm, and even the sweet presence of farm animals in the background.
The celebrations continued with an elegant tented reception under the afternoon sky. The space was adorned with string lights, round tables set with crisp linens, and a display of fruit-inspired desserts that brought vibrancy to the day. Guests admired a champagne wall and the highlight of the sweet treats, a stunning white wedding cake decorated with edible pearls.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Kelly and Dustin changed into glamorous reception attire and stole the spotlight during their iconic first dances. The dance floor radiated with emotion as moments with family and friends were beautifully preserved. The celebration concluded with a breathtaking sparkler exit, where gleaming lights framed the couple as they departed, glowing with the promise of their forever.
Kelly and Dustin’s wedding was a flawless fusion of emotion, aesthetics, and love, creating a day that was truly unforgettable. From the heartfelt vows they exchanged to the joyous celebration on the dance floor, every detail reflected the depth of their unique bond. The décor seamlessly blended elegance and warmth, perfectly complementing the couple's style. Their day also showcased the incredible artistry and talent of Charlotte wedding photographers, who captured each laugh, tear, and tender glance with stunning precision. Every moment was a testament to their beautiful connection, preserving memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.