Top 4 Places to Take Your Engagement Photos at Hotel Domestique

Hotel Domestique in Travelers Rest, South Carolina is one of my favorite destinations for weddings, elopements and engagement photos. The boutique hotel is a popular wedding venue and engagement photo session location. And it’s easy to see why. Its European-inspired architecture and landscaping mixed with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains make you feel like you’re a world away. 

There are plenty of photo spots for you to choose from during your photo session, and today I want to highlight some of those.

Disclaimer:

While this is a beautiful property for any photo session, one of my biggest tips is to plan in advance. The hotel has strict policies on the time of day you can take photos, and you’ll need to schedule it with them. Sunrise is currently the best time of day to take your photos there if you want to use the entire property. You’ll get the best lighting with the most access to the various areas at this time of day.

On the Terrace by the Reflection Pool

Just do a Google search of “Hotel Domestique photos” and you’ll find a slew of images of people on the Terrace and by the reflection pool. With its pebble grounds, subtle landscaping that frames the stunning view in the distance, and European-inspired architecture, there’s truly not an area to avoid. Of course, grabbing a photo or two in between the reflection pool and the stairs is an absolute must!

On the Helipad

Most Hotel Domestique weddings take advantage of the helipad located on the property. It’s tucked away and private, lending to a quiet, intimate ceremony while the hotel staff and vendor team make sure everything is set to perfection on the Terrace. Plus—the view. The view is absolutely incredible.

In the Fields and Vineyard

Two more great photo spots at Hotel Domestique are the fields just beyond the helipad and the vineyard on the other side of the street. Grab your significant other, wedding party, and photographer, and be sure to stroll through the fields. And the vineyards are perfect for more intimate shots, whether for your engagement photos or for a quick Golden Hour session during your wedding reception.

Out Front and by the Front Corner Stairs

While most people tend to get their photographs taken at the above three locations on Hotel Domestique’s property, many don’t realize how beautiful some shots in front of the hotel can be. There’s even a staircase to the right as you’re facing the hotel that always serves up stunning, intimate photos.

Those are four of my favorite photo spots around Hotel Domestique. Which is your favorite?

You may also be interested in reading:

• Engagement Session at Hotel Domestique
• A Photographer’s Insight About What to Wear to Your Engagement Session
• Laura & James Wedding at Hotel Domestique (for a taste of what happens when it rains on your wedding day at Hotel Domestique… spoiler alert: it’s still beautiful)