Intimate Wedding at Kingston South End
Tailored imagery by Charlotte wedding photographer Michael Parks
Intimate Wedding at the Kingston South End, overlooking Uptown Charlotte
This fall, I had the privilege of photographing one of the most memorable intimate weddings of the season—set high above the city at The Kingston South End in Charlotte, NC. The couple reserved the entire 24th floor, transforming the Altitude Lounge, Spectator Lounge, and Skyline Terrace into a wedding venue surrounded by sweeping views of Uptown Charlotte.
As a Certified Professional Photographer specializing in weddings—and one of Charlotte’s go-to photographers for timeless, joy-filled imagery, I approach every wedding with my signature style of romantic elegance blended with editorial sophistication, pastel-toned palettes, luminous natural light, and candid moments with a polished finish. These qualities are the hallmarks I strive to bring to every celebration I photograph.
A Venue Above the Clouds
From the moment I stepped into The Kingston’s 24th-floor event space, the Charlotte city skyline wrapped around the venue like a shimmering backdrop. The Altitude and Spectator lounges offered contemporary comfort, while the open-air Skyline Terrace showcased the full beauty of Uptown—warm, golden, and glowing in the fall light. It was the perfect canvas for an intimate celebration.
Elevated Dining & Thoughtful Details
The couple chose an elevated dining experience catered by Chef Taylor Kastl and Chef Steve McGinley of Tayste Catering, whose artistry and flavor-forward dishes elevated the atmosphere beautifully. Guests enjoyed thoughtfully crafted hors d’oeuvres and a curated dinner menu designed for connection and movement throughout the space. A designer wedding cake stood as a stunning visual centerpiece—an elegant focal point that photographed beautifully with the city lights glowing beyond it.
A Warm, Intentional Celebration
With a smaller guest list, everything felt intentional and heartfelt. Guests drifted between lounges, laughter echoed against the windows, and as dusk settled, the skyline transformed into a glittering backdrop for portraits and candid moments.
These are the kinds of days that feel effortless in the best possible way—full of warmth, closeness, and quiet magic.
My Approach: Candid, Beautifully Directed Storytelling
One comment I hear often from couples is, “I love your candid photos!” And while the moments I capture are authentically real and spontaneous, they’re supported by a traditional technique I’ve refined over the years—directed reportage. I don’t simply photograph whatever happens to be in front of me. If I did, the gallery might include awkward angles, guests mid-bite, or moments that don’t reflect the beauty and elegance of the day. Instead, when I see meaningful moments beginning to unfold, I guide naturally—small adjustments, subtle prompts, gentle direction—so the candid moments keep that refined, editorial feel my couples love. It’s a careful balance of authentic storytelling and polished framing, allowing couples to relax fully in front of the camera while still presenting the best version of themselves.
A Wedding That Truly Reflected the Couple
By the end of the evening, the city was glowing, the terrace lights shimmered, and the entire celebration felt like it floated above Charlotte. It was intimate, stylish, and filled with genuine joy—an unforgettable fall wedding that showcased exactly what makes The Kingston South End such a remarkable venue. If you’re planning a modern, elevated Charlotte wedding—and want photography filled with romantic elegance, luminous light, and naturally polished candid moments—I’d be honored to help tell your story.
“
For wherever you go, I will go.
”
Ruth 1:16
Wedding Partners:
Wedding Venue: Kingston South End, Charlotte NC
Camera: Canon R5 Mark II’s, RF 35mm f/1.4L lens, RF 85mm f1.4L lens, RF 28mm f/2.8L lens; Westcott FJ80 flash, trigger