As a wedding photographer, I can confidently say this venue shines in every season — but there’s something extra special about a September wedding at Heron Hill. The warm light, the hint of fall in the air, and the way the pond reflects the sunset make it the perfect backdrop for a celebration. Mike and Darby’s wedding day was the perfect example of how romantic and joyful this space can be, filled with laughter, color, and unforgettable details.

If Michael and Darby look a little familiar, that’s probably because you’ve seen their downtown Columbia engagement session on the blog! From strolling city streets to celebrating this new chapter surrounded by nature, it’s been such a joy documenting every part of their story.

While Darby chose to do a sweet first look with her gals, Mike chose to celebrate with his guys a different way!

And every girl needs a first look with the first two gentlemen in her life who loved her first.

Before guests entered, Darby wanted to do a reception reveal, and it was such a special moment. Seeing her vision come to life — every floral arrangement perfectly placed, every bow tied, and the soft pink glow filling the room — was emotional and so rewarding. You could tell just how much love and care went into planning every single detail.

The reception space was bursting with beauty — pink florals spilling from every corner and soft pink linens gracing some of the tables, while long farm-style tables stretched through the center of the room, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Each place setting was tied together with a napkin in a perfect bow, adding the sweetest touch of personality and polish.

A moment for the fellas!

Darby was absolutely radiant all day long — the kind of bride who glows from the inside out. Her dress was timeless, elegant, and perfectly her. We were lucky to have extra time before the ceremony for some bridal portraits, and those moments quickly became some of my favorites from the day.

They said “I do” with the pond as their backdrop, a serene and picture-perfect setting that set the tone for the entire day. Surrounded by family, friends, and the soft glow of early fall, it was one of those ceremonies that felt both intimate and full of love.

While I was snapping family portraits, my second photographer snuck back into the reception area to shoot some more details with her micro lens. She knows the way to my heart!

I meannnnnnnn…. does it get any better than this?

Just before sunset, we stole the couple away for a few quiet moments — slipping outside to capture portraits in the soft, golden light, creating another set of romantic images. It’s always touch and go when it comes to asking our couples to step away for minute. Even if it’s written in the timeline, breaking you away from your party is hard and not something we like to do. We try to be very strategic with this. Most of the time, we sneak away while guests are still eating so they don’t really notice!

When the celebration kicked off, The Big Time Band kept the energy sky-high and the dance floor packed all night long. Guests danced, laughed, and sang along as Michael and Darby celebrated the night away.

To finish the evening, guests lined the path waving gold ribbon wands as Michael and Darby made their grand exit in a blue vintage car — the perfect finale to a day that was every bit as beautiful and joyful as their love story.

Want to see more? Their highlight video is even sweeter! Watch here.