Understated Luxury: An Intimate Charleston Wedding at Hotel Emeline | Katy & Jason's Love Story
Love Finds Its Way: A Chic Wedding at Hotel Emeline
Katy and Jason, a couple whose love story began online, chose the stylish Hotel Emeline in Charleston, SC, as the perfect backdrop for their intimate wedding. As a luxury wedding videographer, I was drawn to their unique story, their effortless elegance, and the undeniable chemistry between them.
Hotel Emeline: A Chic Oasis in Historic Charleston
Hotel Emeline, nestled just north of Charleston's historic open-air market, seamlessly blends modern sophistication with Southern charm. Its chic interiors, stylish courtyard, and intimate spaces provide an ideal setting for couples seeking a relaxed yet elevated wedding experience.
FINDING YOUR PERSON…
A Love Story That Defied the Odds
Katy and Jason's love story is one of resilience and serendipity. From their initial online connection to navigating the challenges of a long-distance relationship, their journey to the altar was anything but ordinary. Their wedding at Hotel Emeline was a celebration of their commitment, their love for their children, and their unwavering faith in each other.
A Wedding Weekend Filled with Intimate Moments
From the heartfelt ceremony in the courtyard to the lively reception on the veranda, Katy and Jason's wedding was an intimate affair filled with warmth and laughter. The couple's love for each other was palpable in every moment, creating an atmosphere of pure joy and celebration.
Katy + Jason’s Journey: From Online to Hotel Emeline
Katy and Jason’s story is one that proves two lives, no matter where they are in their journey, can meet at the right moment if it was meant to be. As Katy shared—
“We met online 5 years ago. Literally, my friends put me on this website–He was the first person I met.”
Their love story however was not without twists and turns.
But isn’t that the stuff that the most beautiful love stories are made of?
“It’s been complicated. I lived in New York, he lived in Alaska.”
On top of the distance, both of them had children to consider–Jason had two older kids, while Katy had two younger ones. And as if things weren’t challenging enough as was, the universe threw in COVID-19 for good measure.
Definitely Sweeter the Second Time Around
These two were both married before (all the best are... I’m just saying! : ) ) so for their wedding, they wanted it to be intentional and special.
They knew that they wanted the event to be small and intimate–they wanted only to be surrounded by the people that they loved and mattered the most. So they invited a little under a hundred guests to join them at Hotel Emeline in Charleston–a place that they believe mirrored their love story so well.
Like their journey to each other, Hotel Emeline was full of little surprises, and like their love story, it was well worth exploring it.
Hotel Emeline sits a little up north of the historic open-air market, so the vibe inherently feels elegant and chic. Hotel Emeline reviews usually tout it as a heavily touristed area, yet the venue still feels private and romantic.
They chose Hotel Emeline’s gorgeous courtyard as the perfect backdrop for their vows and the celebration continued on the same veranda. A lot of weddings tend to feel frantic. Amid all the planning and bustle of hosting such a momentous event, you can’t really help it. Yet somehow, Katy and Jason managed to keep the vibe steady and low-key, minimal and incredibly chic–in fact, it was evident in the smallest of details. From the fresh herbs (thyme! My favorite!) that gracefully adorned their tables, complemented by the gentle glimmer of chandeliers overhead.
Yet perhaps what stood out the most was the couple’s energy. They exuded a sense of calm that built up to an easy, steady excitement as the day wore on, anchored on the knowledge that they were going to be spending the rest of their lives with their person.
If there was ever any doubt, you only needed to hear Jason’s vows–
“There’s little I like more than winning — and today —marrying you is the biggest win of my life.”
These two have a love that is subtle, easy, and genuine. It’s the kind of love where you know that the couple has definitely been to hell and back, yet they’d be happy to go through it all again if it meant they could still do it together.
Behind the Lens
A Hotel Emeline wedding meant we had a near-perfect backdrop for the bride’s behind-the-scenes.
But Katy wasn’t so concerned about me catching her getting ready. Instead, she wanted more coverage of the boys getting ready, and–take note my downtown couples–we absolutely love that the boys headed over to Doar Bros on Meeting Street. That footage was incredible and showed the boys settling in, sharing a big table, and enjoying some appetizers and craft cocktails before they eagerly sauntered into the ceremony.
A wedding is just as much about the groom as it is about the bride, and Katy knew that. So seeing the boys walk in, brimming with stylish confidence against Doar Bros chic space was an incredible vibe–definitely one of our favorite moments in this memorable wedding.
Music Sounds Better With You
For their soundscore, Katy and I had so much fun collaborating to achieve the vibe that they wanted that also told their story as a couple.
“911 by Teddy Swims is what he sings to me when I’m having an off day, so it’s gotta be in there.”
To set the mood for the day, Teddy starts everyone off and eases into the Common Kings “Champion” for the ceremony and the reception’s more tender moments. Of course, the day wouldn’t have been complete without a little Marvin Gaye. And nothing like the funky groove of “Got To Give It Up To Me” brings everyone to their feet. Side note–you know how much I love a juxtaposition of a groovy funk against a classic setting, so we layered a little Marvin Gaye into the portraits on White Point Gardens’ through downtown Charleston streets.
Now–fun fact: Katy is a big (and I mean BIG) Belieber.
That’s right.
Our beautiful, graceful bride is an unapologetic and unabashed Justin Bieber fan. So much so that Kay walked down the aisle to an acoustic version of Justine Beiber’s Lifetime. Obviously, The Biebs was something that had to be incorporated into the whole mix, so we capped off their video with Justin serenading their send-off.
Understated Luxury: Hotel Emeline— Your Charleston Wedding Venue
Hotel Emeline is a hidden gem in the heart of Charleston, offering a unique blend of sophistication, charm, and understated luxury. Its versatile event spaces, from the intimate courtyard to the stylish rooftop bar, can be customized to suit your vision.
Imagine exchanging vows in the lush courtyard, surrounded by your closest loved ones. Then, celebrate your love with a reception under the stars on the rooftop terrace, overlooking the city lights. The hotel's culinary team will tantalize your taste buds with locally sourced cuisine, while the impeccable service ensures a seamless and unforgettable experience.
This stylish boutique hotel seamlessly blends modern luxury with southern charm, making it the perfect setting for a sophisticated and intimate celebration.
Unveiling the Hidden Gem: Hotel Emeline's Unique Charm
Beyond its chic interiors and cozy atmosphere, Hotel Emeline offers an array of unique features that set it apart as a premier Charleston wedding venue:
The Courtyard Oasis: A lush, private courtyard adorned with verdant greenery and a charming fireplace creates an intimate setting for your ceremony. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by the love of your closest friends and family, with the sounds of a live band or string quartet echoing through the space. The courtyard's exposed brick walls, wrought-iron details, and gas lanterns create a romantic ambiance that is both timeless and elegant.
The Rooftop Terrace: Ascend to the stylish rooftop terrace, where the city's twinkling lights provide a breathtaking backdrop for your reception. Dance the night away under the stars, savoring delicious cocktails and locally-sourced cuisine prepared by the hotel's talented culinary team. The terrace's comfortable lounge seating, fire pits, and vibrant planters create a chic and inviting atmosphere for mingling and celebration.
The Clerks Coffee Company: This charming on-site café, with its warm wood accents, cozy banquettes, and vintage-inspired decor, offers a welcoming space for pre-wedding gatherings or a post-wedding brunch.
The Keep Shop: This curated boutique showcases local artisans and designers, offering unique gifts for your wedding party or special mementos for yourself and your partner. Its carefully curated selection of goods reflects the hotel's commitment to supporting local businesses and showcasing the best of Charleston's creative community.
Impeccable Service & Attention to Detail
At Hotel Emeline, the team is dedicated to exceeding your expectations. From the moment you begin planning your wedding, you'll be treated to personalized attention and a seamless planning experience. Their experienced wedding coordinators will handle every detail, ensuring your day is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
Capturing Your Hotel Emeline Wedding Video:
As a luxury Charleston wedding videographer, Ruby Riot Creatives specializes in creating cinematic films that tell the unique love story of each couple. We're passionate about capturing the intimate moments, the heartfelt emotions, and the stunning details that make your wedding day unforgettable. With our artistic eye and expert editing skills, we'll create a wedding video that you'll treasure for a lifetime. We'll perfectly capture the artful blend of mid-century modern design, Southern hospitality, and intimate charm that makes Hotel Emeline a truly special wedding venue.
Elevate Your Wedding Experience at Hotel Emeline:
Whether you're envisioning a grand soirée or a more intimate gathering, Hotel Emeline offers the perfect blend of sophistication, charm, and understated luxury. Let this iconic Charleston hotel, with its unique blend of historical charm and modern design, be the backdrop for your love story, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ruby Riot Creatives: Your Charleston Wedding Videographer
As a luxury wedding videographer, Ruby Riot Creatives is dedicated to capturing the essence of your love story. We understand that every wedding is unique, and we strive to create films that are as individual as the couples we work with. Our cinematic style, combined with our passion for storytelling, ensures that your wedding video will be a timeless keepsake that you'll cherish for years to come.
Katy + Jason | Hotel Emeline Wedding Round-Up
Video Package
8-Hour Lovestruck Package with vows + speeches woven in, with an added-in ceremony edit and raw footage
Wedding Venue + Bride Getting Ready Location
@hotelemeline
Wedding Ceremony Location
Hotel Emeline Courtyard
Boys Getting Ready Location
@theryderhotel
Boys Grabbing Cocktails Location
@doarbros
Photographer
@taylorjordanphoto
Wedding Planner
@kgweddingsandevents
Rentals
Curated Events | @curatedeventscharleston
Wedding Audio Equipment
@bunndjchs
Wedding DJ
Floral Design
@flowershopchs
Katy & Jason—thank you for reminding us that it’s possible to find your person even when life throws every imaginable challenge your way.
Sending you and your new family all the love in the world!
Ruby Riot Creatives | Destination Weddings + Events. We travel everywhere!
Visit https://www.instagram.com/rubyriotcreatives @RubyRiotCreatives to view our portfolio and current work, hear some embarrassing stories on our podcast, The Ruby Hour, and check our availability for your event! If you have an upcoming wedding or event, we would LOVE to be a part of it.
Which Wedding Video Package Was This?
This is our signature 8-Hour Lovestruck Package with vows + speeches woven in.
Getting married soon? We totally want to film your wedding. We travel anywhere. Let’s schedule a time to chat after you check out our media kit.