Hilton Head Wedding | James + Kelly

Wedding Photographer in Hilton Head | Sonesta Resort
Surrounded by coastal beauty, Kelly and James celebrated 10 years of love with a stunning Sonesta Resort Hilton Head wedding. Faced with an unexpected ceremony change, they handled everything gracefully, turning every moment into a beautiful reflection of their devotion.
The day began with Kelly and her bridesmaids getting ready together, sharing excitement as they prepared for the celebration. Kelly wore a lovely white robe while her bridal party coordinated in matching steel blue robes, a nod to the wedding’s color palette of steel blue, silver, and white.
Kelly shared a first look with her father, a moment that perfectly captured their close bond.
Meanwhile, James and his groomsmen kept the energy lighthearted as they prepared for the day. James radiated excitement but couldn’t hold back tears as Kelly walked down the aisle, showing how much this day meant to him.
Kelly always dreamed of a beach wedding, and James was determined to make her dream come true. However, a windy November day on Hilton Head Island had other plans, with gusts over 20 mph disrupting the beach setup. With everyone’s comfort and the photos in mind, we quickly pivoted to the Sonesta Resort’s sheltered lawn. The couple’s trust in me to help guide this adjustment ensured their ceremony would still be as stunning as they had envisioned.
A grounded floral arch adorned the relocated ceremony space, perfectly matching Kelly’s bouquet. This unique arch perfectly framed the couple while keeping the lush, tropical scenery visible in the background. The couple exchanged vows, surrounded by their closest family and friends, and sealed their promises with a kiss.
The Sonesta Resort’s Pavilion was transformed into an elegant coastal oasis for the reception. Twinkling café lights, and tables adorned with floral centerpieces and candles created a romantic yet relaxed ambiance. A gorgeous welcome painting of the ocean and sunset sky, featuring Kelly and James’ names and wedding date, greeted guests at the reception.
Kelly’s family’s history on the island added a fun touch to the evening. After a surprise flash mob, including the bridesmaids and mothers, the groomsmen and dads took center stage, riding beach rental bikes around the dance floor in honor of Kelly’s parents, who own a bike rental business. It was entertaining, reflecting the playful spirit of the couple and their families.
The couple’s cake was a showstopper, featuring ocean-inspired layers in shades of blue and sand, adorned with seashells and two Adirondack chairs at the top. It was a whimsical yet elegant centerpiece perfectly tied to the coastal theme.
As the evening progressed, the dance floor came alive with neon party favors, lighting up the space with excitement. Kelly and James’ day ended with a quiet, intimate dance under the twinkling lights as their guests gathered outside. The couple exited through a tunnel of bubbles and waving neon lights into their new life together.
Kelly and James’ Sonesta Resort Hilton Head wedding was a beautiful celebration of love, made even more memorable by my quick thinking and the couple’s flexibility. When the windy conditions threatened their beach ceremony, moving to the sheltered lawn at the Sonesta kept everything on track. This smooth transition allowed the couple to enjoy their ceremony comfortably, and their trust in the process ensured the day flowed effortlessly.
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Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Wedding Ceremony








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If you’re planning a Hilton Head wedding and want a photographer to help make your vision a reality, I’d love to be part of your celebration. Reach out here to start planning your unforgettable wedding experience!
Hilton Head Island Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony venue: Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island
Reception venue: Sonesta Resort
Photographer: Ashta Harler Photography
Planner: Posey Events Design
HMUA: Beyond Beautiful by Heather
DJ: JLK Events
Cake: Publix
Officiant: Say I do HHI
Bride + bridesmaids dresses: Mariella Creations