Choosing the perfect time of year to get married in Charlotte can feel overwhelming. Trust me, I’ve photographed weddings here for years, and each season has its own beautiful personality. If you’re wondering when the light is dreamiest, when the flowers bloom brightest, or when the weather will play nicely with your plans, I’ve got you covered. Here’s my guide to planning your Charlotte wedding around the seasons.
Spring Magic
Spring in Charlotte is pure romance. From late March through May, everything comes alive. The trees burst with blossoms, gardens fill with color, and the weather is usually mild enough that everyone feels comfortable outdoors. For wedding photos, the soft pastels of new blooms make the perfect backdrop. Spring light has a gentle, creamy quality that flatters every skin tone. I especially love capturing couples among the cherry blossoms and dogwoods that paint the city in pink and white. If you love florals, this is your season.
One thing to keep in mind about spring is the chance of rain. A little drizzle can actually create beautiful, misty portraits, but it’s always good to have a backup plan for your ceremony or reception. Clear umbrellas make for adorable, storybook photos too.
Summer Glow
June through August brings that classic southern warmth. Yes, it gets hot, but if you love golden sunshine and bright, vibrant colors, summer is a wonderful choice. Longer days mean more time for portraits with gorgeous evening light. The sunsets in Charlotte during summer can be spectacular, with streaks of pink, purple, and orange that make every moment look magical.
If you plan a summer wedding, I recommend scheduling your ceremony a bit later in the day so everyone stays comfortable. And make sure you have plenty of water and shade for guests. For photos, I love capturing couples sneaking away at twilight, when the heat softens and everything glows.
Fall Splendor
Charlotte in the fall is like stepping into a painting. September through November brings cooler temperatures and some of the prettiest light you’ll ever see. The leaves turn rich shades of gold, rust, and crimson, giving your portraits a warm, romantic feel that’s impossible to fake.
Fall weddings tend to be incredibly popular here for good reason. The weather is comfortable, the color palette is rich, and the sun hangs lower in the sky, casting that gorgeous golden-hour light that photographers dream of. This is the season where nature does half the decorating work for you. I always tell couples to bring a cozy wrap or shawl in case evenings turn chilly, and to build in a few extra minutes for photos under the dreamy night sky.
Winter Elegance
Winter in Charlotte is often overlooked, but it shouldn’t be. December through February offers a completely different kind of beauty. The air is crisp, the light is soft and silvery, and venues feel extra cozy with candlelight and twinkling lights. If you love rich textures, velvet gowns, and dramatic florals, winter might be perfect for you.
Because there are fewer weddings in winter, you often have more flexibility with vendors and venues. And while Charlotte rarely gets heavy snow, the occasional dusting can make your day feel like a winter fairytale. I also love how winter weddings create opportunities for intimate, indoor portraits that feel warm and timeless.
What Season is Right for You?
Every season has something special to offer, and there’s really no wrong time to get married in Charlotte. It all comes down to the vibe you want. Do you love the freshness of spring, the bold colors of summer, the cozy romance of fall, or the elegant calm of winter? I’m here to help you capture it beautifully, no matter when you say I do.
If you’re still deciding, reach out. I’m always happy to chat and share ideas about venues, timing, and how to make the most of Charlotte’s incredible natural light. After all, your wedding photos aren’t just pictures – they’re memories you’ll treasure forever.
xo, Critsey