A Jasmine-Filled Charleston Engagement Session

Spring in Charleston always feels a little extra romantic. The jasmine begins climbing the iron gates and historic homes, the streets soften with greenery, and even cloudy afternoons somehow still glow.

Marissa and Carson’s engagement session began in historic downtown Charleston on an overcast afternoon, but almost as soon as we started walking through the city, the sun broke through the clouds and completely changed the feel of the evening. Between the blooming jasmine tucked throughout downtown and Marissa’s timeless white babydoll dress, the entire session felt effortlessly classic and undeniably Charleston.

What I loved most about photographing these two was how natural they are together. Nothing felt overly posed or forced — just easy conversation, quiet moments, and the kind of comfort that comes from truly knowing someone.

Their story actually began years ago in high school before eventually turning into something more while both were attending USC in Columbia. After Marissa transferred home and COVID brought Carson back to Charleston more often, the two started spending more time together one-on-one. Their friends apparently noticed the connection before they did, and after five years together, the rest is history.

Their proposal story could not have fit them more perfectly. Carson planned the surprise alongside Marissa’s sisters and best friend, all while convincing her it was simply a normal day on the boat. The two spent the afternoon shrimping together before Carson casually suggested heading toward The Battery to fish for a bit — something Marissa thought was slightly unusual, but not enough to raise suspicion.

The best part? She had absolutely no idea it was happening because she had left the house in a t-shirt with wet hair and no makeup, fully convinced a proposal could not possibly happen under those circumstances.

Meanwhile, Carson was secretly trying to get the ring out while friends hid nearby waiting for the moment he proposed overlooking the harbor.

Sessions like this are always a reminder that Charleston does not need much to feel beautiful. A quiet spring evening, historic streets covered in jasmine, and two people completely comfortable together are more than enough.

After wandering through historic downtown Charleston together, we headed toward Pitt Street to end their session surrounded by Old Village charm and the waterfront views that make this area of Charleston feel so timeless.