Old Sheldon Church Ruins Wedding | Jennifer + Nate
Beaufort Wedding Photographer
It was an absolute joy to capture Nate and Jennifer’s Old Sheldon Church Ruins Wedding. With its rich history and stunning scenery, this wedding venue Beaufort SC was the perfect backdrop for their classic Southern celebration. Their story is about love, patience, and a shared vision for the future.
Nate and Jennifer’s love story began in August 2020 during the pandemic. They first met at work, both masked and navigating the new normal. The new 7th-grade math teacher, Nate, had just moved into his classroom during the summer, and Jennifer couldn’t help but be curious. A co-worker’s inquiry revealed Nate had a “fake” girlfriend to focus on work. But fate had other plans. In January 2021, Nate liked Jennifer’s photo on Hinge, and their connection was instant. Their first date, a night filled with drinks under a beautiful starlit sky, ended with a memorable kiss.
They kept their relationship a secret from their co-workers, and in March 2021, Nate officially asked Jennifer to be his girlfriend, and they moved in together that August. Their relationship was built on the foundation of seeking something serious, knowing they were dating for marriage. Despite the ups and downs, their love and commitment to each other have grown stronger.
Jennifer’s love for the Old Sheldon Church Ruins is evident, and it’s no surprise they chose this serene and historic location for their ceremony. The ruins, with their majestic oaks and rich history, offered a perfect setting for a timeless wedding. Sheldon Church, formerly known as the Prince William Parish Church, has quite an eventful story. It was the first attempt in America to create a Greek Temple style of architecture. They built the church between 1745 and 1753 and held its first service in 1757. The church was a political and military center for the area during the Revolutionary War. The church was burned and rebuilt and then destroyed and gutted by locals for them to use the materials to rebuild their homes, which were then left abandoned.
They held the ceremony amidst the ancient and beautiful ruins, a venue only accessible to parish members. Jennifer’s dad gave her a wonderful surprise: a carriage ride from the ceremony to the reception. The black carriage with red wheels, led by two gorgeous horses, added a touch of fairy-tale magic to the day.
The couple’s dog also made a special appearance, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the ceremony. The invitation suite included a beautiful rendition of the Old Sheldon Church Ruins, setting the tone for their classic Southern wedding.
They hosted the reception at a private residence in Yemasee, South Carolina, under a large tent adorned with café lights and a wooden floor. The fall colors of reds, yellows, and peach florals, including white hydrangeas, created a warm and inviting atmosphere. Long farm tables with white coverings, dark place settings, gold tableware, and florals created an elegant setup. They had a beautiful four-tiered wedding cake decorated with matching florals cascading down it. They placed the cake atop a gold cake stand, with greenery surrounding the cake table, making a lovely statement piece.
One of the highlights of the reception was a unique table with an old rotary phone, where guests could leave heartfelt messages for the newlyweds.
As the sun set, we captured couple portraits outside the ruins, with the sunlight filtering through the oaks, creating a dreamy and romantic ambiance. The evening was filled with dances, heartfelt speeches, and the traditional cake-cutting. The dance floor came alive with energy, and the guests enjoyed a sugar-filled dessert bar and lighted party favors.
Their choice of the Old Sheldon Church Ruins and the private residence for their reception reflected their desire for a classic, Southern, and timeless wedding. Capturing their special moments was an absolute pleasure; their love and commitment to each other shone through in every detail. Nate and Jennifer, thank you for allowing me to be part of your special day. Enjoy scrolling through some of my favorites from their Old Sheldon Church Ruins Wedding!
Fall Wedding at Old Sheldon Church Ruins
Old Sheldon Church Ruins Wedding Ceremony
Old Sheldon Church Ruins Wedding Photos | Beaufort Wedding Photographer
Tented Beaufort SC Wedding Reception
If you’re planning a Beaufort SC Wedding, I would love to be part of your celebration. Contact me here to discuss your vision for your wedding day!
Love From The Couple:
“We absolutely LOVED working with Ashta! She was quick to respond when I inquired about my date, gave me a TON of vendor recommendations (most of which I ended up booking for my big day), and, most importantly, made us feel like we were her only clients (even though she is BOOKED & BUSY!). We started with an engagement photo session, and I continued to receive constant communication from her from that time until the wedding day. She is transparent, thoughtful, and absolutely hilarious! She made us both feel so comfortable in front of the camera and took some of the most breathtaking photos I have ever seen. I not only consider her my wedding photographer but also a friend. I will make the drive back home every time so that SHE can be the one to take our photos. Thank you, Ashta!”
Beaufort Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony venue: Old Sheldon Church Ruins
Reception venue: Private Residence
Photographer: Ashta Harler Photography
Wedding planner: Sutlan + Co
Florist: Farm City Flowers
Makeup artist: The Blushing Belle
Hair stylist: Bangs Salon
Catering: Cru Catering
Cake: Bloom Custom Cakes
DJ: Island Sound
Transportation: Rivers Transportation
Videographer: Hart to Heart Media
Rentals: Amazing Rentals
