Wedding at St Peter Catholic Church on Film

Wedding

May 27

Written By Michael Parks

Bride and Groom on Portra 400 film after Catholic wedding sacrament Mass at St. Peter Catholic Church in Uptown Charlotte NC

Saint Peter Catholic Church and The Ruth, Charlotte NC

Bride getting ready in white dress with lace jacket before her wedding sacrament Mass at St. Peter Catholic Church in Uptown Charlotte NC on Portra 400 film by nearby Catholic wedding photographer ParksPictures

Bride and groom laughing outside St. Peter Catholic Church in Uptown Charlotte NC on Portra 400 film by nearby Catholic wedding photographer ParksPictures

Uptown Charlotte Wedding at St. Peter and The Ruth

As a Catholic, each Catholic wedding I photograph is really special, Elizabeth and Brian’s wedding at St. Peter Catholic Church and reception at The Ruth by Beau Monde in Uptown Charlotte was a joy to capture. The sense of ease throughout the events didn’t happen by accident - the day was masterfully planned by Amy Mich of The White Rose Co. Weddings & Events, whose attention to detail and calm presence made all the difference.

Getting Ready: Quiet Moments Before the Ceremony

The morning began above Uptown, with the bride getting ready at the JW Marriott, near St. Peter. The suite’s clean lines, window light, and skyline views created space that lent itself beautifully to photography—refined without feeling stiff, bright without being harsh. The energy in the suite was relaxed and anticipatory, the kind of atmosphere that lets genuine moments rise to the surface.

The Wedding Mass: A Sacred Tradition

The day transitioned to St. Peter, one of Charlotte’s most iconic churches. Its timeless architecture and history created the sacred setting as the couple exchanged vows. There’s a quiet gravity to ceremonies in old church where generations of weddings have taken place that adds depth to the experience. As a wedding photographer, here it’s less about staging and more understanding the Mass and capturing the right moments in the ceremony.

Moving Through Uptown by Trolley

A memorable element of the day was how everyone moved between locations. Instead of typical transportation, the wedding party was shuttled through Uptown on a classic red street trolley. It brought a sense of fun and nostalgia to the day and turned simple transitions into experiences of their own.

The celebration continued at The Ruth by Beau Monde, where the atmosphere shifted into an inviting, celebratory event. With its curated outdoor garden spaces, modern wrap-around bar, and ballroom, The Ruth was the backdrop for toasts, laughter, and a packed dance floor.

Shared Love of Film

The couple and I share a love of film photography, and it was really a pleasure to lean into shooting film for their wedding. Throughout the day, I photographed with Kodak Portra 400—my go-to film for soft tones, natural color, and timeless quality. Film has a way of slowing things down, encouraging intention with every frame. Alongside film, I used digital cameras when appropriate, later editing those digital images to complement the film. The result is a cohesive gallery that blends the best of both mediums.

If you’re planning a wedding at St. Peter’s—or anywhere in Uptown Charlotte—and cherish images that honor the emotion and truth of the day, I’d love to connect. As a brings me joy to create images that feel timeless, authentic, and deeply personal.