When Alysa and Coleman envisioned their Uptown Charlotte engagement session, they dreamed of something upscale, creative, and timeless. With their impeccable taste and energetic personalities, it was no surprise that this session was nothing short of spectacular. From a chic French boutique hotel to the grandeur of Uptown Charlotte, every detail captured their vibrant love story.
A Dream Team and a Perfect Setting
Alysa and Coleman are no strangers to my lens. Having modeled for me at the Bishop Venues Grand Opening and even inviting me on a photo excursion on their sailboat, they have an innate understanding of my photography style: energetic, editorial, and unapologetically unique. So when they got engaged, I was honored to be their first choice.
As we brainstormed their engagement shoot, they expressed a desire for fun bar photos, elegant hotel vibes, and outdoor cityscapes. After some research, the stunning Ivey’s Hotel and Sophia’s Lounge emerged as the perfect venues. Here’s why this location was an absolute standout:
1. French Boutique Luxury
The Ivey’s Hotel offers a quintessentially upscale backdrop. Its rich history—over a century in business—adds timeless elegance to its modern sophistication. The hotel features 400-year-old French oak floors, custom lighting fixtures, and bespoke furnishings, each more exquisite than the last. From golden trolleys to glittering chandeliers and velvet chairs, every corner exudes Art Deco-inspired luxury.
2. Intimate and Exclusive
Privacy was a key factor for Alysa and Coleman’s session. The Ivey’s Hotel offers the option to reserve Sophia’s Lounge exclusively for photo shoots, ensuring no interruptions. It is $150 if you book a room for the evening and it’s worth every penny. Alysa and Coleman chose to turn their session into a romantic staycation, giving them the freedom to enjoy the space and create more memories during this exciting season. Having two uninterrupted hours in the lounge meant we could truly get creative, a luxury not always afforded in public spaces.
3. Sophia’s Lounge: A Photographer’s Playground
Sophia’s Lounge was named “Best Upscale Cocktail Bar” by Charlotte Magazine, and it’s easy to see why. Its design blends vintage comfort with European flair, making it a dream location for capturing bold, artistic shots. Alysa and Coleman sank into the velvet couches, clinked glasses at the glowing bar, and even posed for a striking shot framed in one of the lounge’s antique mirrors. The space invited creativity and amplified their playful, romantic energy.
4. Exceptional Hospitality
The Ivey’s Hotel doesn’t just look luxurious—it feels it. From valet parking to the personalized tour provided by their gracious reception staff, every detail was thoughtfully executed. The hospitality staff even had a bottle of champagne waiting for us at the bar to toast the occasion. It’s rare to find a venue that treats photographers and their clients as honored guests rather than inconveniences, and The Ivey’s truly went above and beyond.
5. Uptown Charlotte’s Photographic Gems
Located in the heart of Uptown, The Ivey’s Hotel provides easy access to some of Charlotte’s most stunning photo spots. After wrapping up at Sophia’s Lounge, we headed to the Charlotte District Attorney’s office—a hidden gem with marble pillars and golden doors that exude Washington, D.C. vibes. Here, Alysa and Coleman popped a bottle of champagne as golden hour lit up the city skyline. It was the perfect complement to the elegance of their hotel suite photos. It is a must for every Uptown Charlotte photoshoot.
A Session to Remember
Alysa and Coleman’s Uptown Charlotte engagement session was a perfect blend of elegance, intimacy, and fun. The Ivey’s Hotel and Sophia’s Lounge offered the ideal setting for their upscale vision, while Uptown Charlotte’s iconic architecture provided a stunning contrast. This session proves that with the right locations and a little creative magic, engagement photos can be as unique and unforgettable as the love stories they capture.
Ready to Make Magic?
If you’re searching for an Uptown Charlotte Photoshoot or a photographer who can bring your vision to life, let’s connect. Together, we can create something truly extraordinary.
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Hi, I'm ANNA CLAIRE
I am a North Carolina based wedding photographer & film maker. Having traveled to over 40 countries, I've captured unique love stories and earned recognition in major magazines and from high-profile clients, including celebrities. It's incredibly rewarding to deliver work that moves my clients to tears. I am a Charlotte luxury wedding photographer and destination elopement photographer available to capture your unique wedding day.
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