jekyll island, georgia

Abbey + Mason

There's something magical about a wedding that seamlessly blends classic elegance with modern sophistication. Abbey and Mason's stunning Crane Cottage wedding on Jekyll Island, Georgia did exactly that. It created an unforgettable day that perfectly captured their love story through a timeless black-and-white theme.

A Dream Georgia wedding Venue: Crane cottage on Jekyll Island

Nestled among Spanish moss-draped oaks and manicured gardens, Crane Cottage stands as Jekyll Island's crown jewel of wedding venues. This Italian Renaissance-style mansion, built in 1917, offered Abbey and Mason the perfect blend of Southern charm and historic grandeur for their special day. The cottage's sunken garden, with its geometric patterns and breathtaking fountains, created a natural altar space that seemed perfect to execute their vision.

What makes Crane Cottage truly exceptional is its versatility. The venue features multiple outdoor ceremony locations, allowing couples to choose between the intimate courtyard, the sprawling front lawn, or the romantic sunken garden. The cottage itself has 13 bedrooms, making it ideal for wedding parties who want to stay together and enjoy an entire weekend of celebration. The wraparound porches, period furnishings, and architectural details provided endless opportunities for stunning wedding photos that will stand the test of time.

Intentional planning: The foundations of wedding photography

Abbey and Mason's approach to their wedding day was refreshingly intentional, and it showed in every detail. They chose a sophisticated black and white theme that extended beyond just their color palette – it influenced their entire wedding day experience. From the gorgeous black detailing on their invitations to the flowing black gowns worn by their bridesmaids. It was classic, elegant, and oh-so-beautiful.

Intentionality while wedding planning is something every couple should consider. When you carefully plan each element of your day, you create natural moments that translate beautifully into your wedding photos. Abbey and Mason's decision to keep their design simple yet impactful allowed their genuine emotions and connections to take center stage in their images.

Abbey + Mason’s Crane cottage wedding on Jekyll ISland

When high school sweethearts turn into forever loves, magic happens. Having photographed Abbey's brother’s wedding thee year prior, I knew this celebration at Jekyll Island's iconic Crane Cottage would be ICONIC – and this radiant couple didn't disappoint.

From the moment Abbey described her vision of a modern winter wedding at the Crane Cottage, I knew we were creating something special. The contrast between Abbey's vivacious and outgoing personality and Mason's more gentle demeanor created the perfect balance, reflecting every carefully curated detail of their wedding day.

From their first look to their golden-glow portraits, Abbey and Mason's day was filled with carefully planned yet naturally beautiful moments. One of the most striking aspects of Abbey and Mason's wedding was how their intentional planning played such a significant role in the entire wedding experience. By carefully considering the timing, locations, and details of their day, they created natural opportunities for their personalities to shine through. Their decision to have a first look, for example, not only gave them a private moment together but also allowed for relaxed portrait sessions before the ceremony.

After hundreds of portraits were taken, it wasn’t long until guests began trickling in and gathering in the sunken garden. The timeless architecture that is naturally found at the Crane Cottage proved to be a stunning backdrop for their outdoor winter ceremony. The modern and simplistic wedding décor complemented the venue's elegance and immediately made me gasp. When Abbey made her entrance, along with the song of their violinist, it was evident that tears would be a non-negotiable at this ceremony.

Following the ceremony, the celebration continued in the cottage's sophisticated indoor-outdoor courtyard space. As day turned to dusk, the minimal yet luxurious styling created an atmosphere that was both elevated and inviting. Abbey and Mason's genuine joy was contagious as they danced with loved ones all night long!

Abbey and Mason's wedding at Crane Cottage exemplified how intentional planning, a timeless theme, and the perfect venue come together to create an memorable wedding experience. Their celebration proved that when you choose a venue as special as Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island and approach your wedding day with intention and detail, the results are breathtaking.

Crane cottage on jekyll island wedding vendors:

Photography: Steph Powell Creative

Venue: Crane Cottage

Videographer: Wiggins Film Co.

Hair & Makeup: Full Bloom Salon

Cake: Ally’s Bakery

Florist: Sheree Griffis at Southern Posh

Dress: The White Magnolia

DJ: Island Sound

Stationery: The Knot