Journal

A curated collection of tips, tricks, and resources for both couples and photographers. Here is where you’ll find them.

Weddings Mary Kate Steele Weddings Mary Kate Steele

What to Expect: The Average Cost of a Luxury Ranch Wedding in Jackson Hole During Fall

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is nothing short of extraordinary—a place where rugged natural beauty meets refined luxury. Picture golden aspen groves, the towering peaks of the Tetons, and a serene, open sky that feels like it was painted just for your special day. It’s no wonder this breathtaking destination has become a sought-after location for couples dreaming of a luxury ranch wedding. But what does it take to plan an unforgettable event in such an awe-inspiring setting? Let’s explore!

I’m thrilled to collaborate with my dear friend and esteemed luxury wedding planner, Latham Stevens, who has mastered the art of curating exquisite weddings in Jackson Hole and beyond. With her insider knowledge and expertise, we’ll guide you through the essentials of planning your dream wedding and what to expect when it comes to costs in this remarkable destination.

Read More
Travel, Weddings Mary Kate Steele Travel, Weddings Mary Kate Steele

Discovering A Quiet Luxury at Sea Island, Georgia and a Peak Into Weddings at Sea Island

I recently took a trip to experience for myself what the mystery of Sea Island was like. As a wedding photographer, I enjoy taking “research” trips to specific locations and venues that I would love to work at one day. Sea Island has been on my list for a while. Nestled along the coast of Georgia lies a hidden gem, a place where the whispers of the sea mingle with the rustle of palm fronds and the warmth of Southern hospitality envelops you like a soft, comforting embrace. Welcome to Sea Island.

Read More
Mary Kate Steele Mary Kate Steele

10 Luxurious Ways To Include Color In Your Fine Art Wedding Design

As a traditional bride designing a fine art wedding, being drawn to the classic black, white, and green color palate makes a lot of sense. Today, I want to show and encourage you not to be afraid to branch out and incorporate color! Adding beautiful colors into your fine art wedding design not only elevates the details and story telling of your day, colors are also classy and timeless — it won’t go out of style.

Read More
Mary Kate Steele Mary Kate Steele

Jekyll Island: A Serene Southern Getaway with a New England Touch

This past week I had the pleasure of visiting Jekyll Island, GA, for the first time. A beautiful Spanish moss Oak tree driveway greeted us at the entrance of the island. Just down the lane and around the corner, the majestic Jekyll Island Club Resort peeked above the tree lined sky as we drove underneath all the hanging moss.

Read More
Mary Kate Steele Mary Kate Steele

A Favorite Coastal Maine Venue: The Cliff House

The Cliff House sits beautifully on the oceanfront of Bald Head cliff in southern Maine. It overlooks the ocean’s edge and the adorable Nubble Lighthouse. Standing on the edge of the cliff, you see and hear the ocean waves crashing as they hit the rocks down below.

Read More
Mary Kate Steele Mary Kate Steele

5 Reasons Why, As A Destination Wedding Photographer, I Love Shooting A Wedding Somewhere New — And How It Benefits You

As a destination wedding photographer, capturing a wedding at a new (to me) venue or location brings me so much joy and creative excitement! I think I can say that most wedding industry artists/vendors feel the same way. From time to time, when speaking with potential clients, the question of “have you shot (or worked) a wedding at my venue before?” will come up in our conversation. I love addressing any questions, but this is one I specifically wanted to clarify! I think this is really important information for any couple to understand as you plan your wedding and start booking your favorite vendors!

Read More
Mary Kate Steele Mary Kate Steele

10 Perfect Wedding Shoe Brands for the Fine Art Bride

As a past fine art bride myself, finding the perfect wedding shoe for my fine art wedding was really important to me. Here is a selection of wedding shoe brands for the fine art bride that come highly recommended by myself and my past brides – tried and true.

Read More
Mary Kate Steele Mary Kate Steele

A Classic Christmas Wedding in Woodstock, Vermont

A classic Christmas wedding in Woodstock, Vermont inspired by the classic movie, “It’s A Wonderful Life”. Travel through images to darling Woodstock, Vermont and fall in love with the snow covered streets filled with New England history and idyllic memories.

Read More

Fine Art Micro Luxury Weddings: Bringing European Styled Weddings to the US – Inspiration for Your Small Wedding

The most significant change there will be in the wedding industry is the return of smaller, intimate weddings – micro luxury weddings. We will be seeing weddings consisting of smaller groups (25-50 guests) of your closest family and friends celebrating your marriage. Intimate weddings are classy and traditional and very European.

Read More