A Hiawassee, GA Wedding at The Retreat at Hiawassee River: James & Brandi's Story

Getting Married at The Retreat at Hiawassee River in North Georgia

Nestled in the mountains of North Georgia, The Retreat at Hiawassee River is the kind of venue that lets a wedding day feel both grand and completely personal. As a North Georgia wedding photographer, I get to see a lot of venues, and this one has a way of pulling family and friends together in a setting that's as relaxed as it is beautiful.

Meet James: the wedding coordinator, the organizer, the selector of vendors, and yes, the groom. He's a teddy bear who teared up at the memory of loved ones who couldn't make it to the wedding, nearly lost his footing when he saw his bride in her dress for the first time, and cried when he told me how emotional this day was for him. James wasn't your typical groom on the sidelines. He coordinated every detail of the day himself, from vendor selection to the final timeline, all so Brandi could simply show up and be present. Working with him on the details of their day was a genuine pleasure, and Brandi has a nickname for him now: "the bride," a joke that only makes sense once you've watched James in action.

A Surprise Live Band and a Bride Who Got to Just Enjoy Her Day

Because James handled the coordinating, Brandi got to experience surprises most brides never do. One of the best: she had no idea there was a live band until she heard the first note. She got to take the back seat and simply enjoy her own wedding, instead of fielding questions and decisions all day the way most brides end up doing.

Planning a wedding at The Retreat at Hiawassee River or another North Georgia venue? I'd love to help capture your day, surprises and all.Reach out here and let's talk.