When it comes to classic city weddings with a touch of modern artistry, Cathy and Charlie’s Ritz-Carlton wedding in Charlotte, NC was one for the books. Thoughtfully designed by Carrie Anne Events, the day was a seamless blend of timeless elegance, heartfelt moments, and fun city energy.

Getting Ready at the Ritz

Cathy began her morning in one of the beautiful Ritz-Carlton suites, surrounded by her bridesmaids, laughter, and the soft buzz of anticipation. Every detail—from her elegant gown to the delicate stationery suite by Olive Paper—felt cohesive with the sophisticated aesthetic of the day.

Wedding Party Portraits in Pearl Street Park

Before heading to the ceremony, we made a stop at Pearl Street Park for wedding party photos surrounded by lush greenery. Cathy and Charlie wanted to bring in a natural contrast to the urban backdrop of Uptown Charlotte—and this small pocket of nature provided the perfect balance of modern and organic.

A Hand-Painted Backdrop for a Personal Touch

One of my favorite creative elements of the day was the hand-painted backdrop I brought in for portraits. Its soft, painterly tones perfectly complemented their color palette and added an artistic, editorial feel to their wedding gallery. It’s always special to create something one-of-a-kind for each couple, and this backdrop gave us a little extra magic to work with.

Reception at The Ritz-Carlton Urban Garden

As the sun set, guests gathered in the Ritz-Carlton Urban Garden—a stunning glass-enclosed space in the heart of Charlotte. With lush florals by Weddings with Barbara, ambient lighting from Firefly AVD, and a joyful crowd dancing to Color the Night Band, the celebration felt warm, modern, and full of energy. Every moment was infused with personality, from the beautiful dessert display by Palmetto Sweets Co to the refined rentals curated by Curated Events Charlotte.

The Kind of Wedding You Don’t Forget

Photographing Cathy and Charlie’s day reminded me why I love what I do—the connection, emotion, and intentional design that make every story unique. Their Ritz-Carlton Charlotte wedding was a reflection of their personalities: stylish, joyful, and deeply genuine. If you’re looking for an intentional, artistic photographer for your wedding day, I’d love to chat.