Imagine a contemporary couple laughing on the stairs of a historic manor, elegant Chanel heels on aged wooden floors, a wedding dress, and diamonds in a 90’s grunge hip-hop bar. This concept is what drove Kelsey Mard Photography to create this stunning shoot. “My inspiration for the photoshoot is a unique blend of contrasting aesthetics,” shared Kelsey.
First Kelsey photographed Tiana and Brandon at The Duke Mansion, a historic Inn built in 1915 and one of the oldest wedding venues in Charlotte, North Carolina. The venue, filled with natural light streaming through large windows, provided a serene and elegant backdrop, with its black and white checkered floors adding a classic, timeless texture.
Kelsey Mard highlighted these elements beautifully, using the interplay of light and shadow to accentuate the romantic mood of the venue and the intimate moments shared by Tiana and Brandon. Her approach successfully blended the historical charm of the mansion with the contemporary elegance of the wedding attire and decor.
Tiana wore the Tohn gown by NEWHITE, a dress that perfectly captured our artful and modern theme. Her makeup, done by Laura Repcaru, was flawless and natural, enhancing her beauty without overpowering her features. The look was completed with a calla lilies bouquet, a statement-drop diamond necklace from Diamonds Direct, adding a touch of elegance, and Jimmy Choo heels for a hint of glamour.
The couple then moved to a second location at Salud, a James Beard semi-finalist for a 90s hip-hop-themed pizza shop. Both locations are part of what makes Charlotte wonderful, but are each such a different vibe. “Sometimes opposites that don’t quite appear to fit together actually do, and Tiana and Brandon’s effortless chemistry transcends both venues,” concluded the photographer.
PHOTOGRAPHER Kelsey Mard Photography | VENUES The Duke Mansion, Salud Beer Shop | FLORAL & DESIGN Malaya Floral | DRESS: DESIGNER NEWHITE BOUTIQUE Lovely Bride Charlotte | SHOES Jimmy Choo | JEWELRY Diamonds Direct | HAIR The Stylehouse, Audrey | MAKEUP Laura Repcaru | CONTENT Dreamy Content | MODELS Tiana Raleigh, Brandon Raleigh
