Modern Wedding at Thompson Hotel’s Tesserae Rooftop Atlanta
Shelby and Josh’s wedding was the perfect mix of timeless style and modern glam. Held at Tesserae, the chic rooftop spot on top of the Thompson Hotel in Atlanta’s trendy Buckhead area, their big day was nothing short of unforgettable. From the rooftop views to their carefully curated style, their wedding was a masterclass in refined elegance, without ever feeling stuffy or overdone.
Old Hollywood Meets Modern Elegance
Shelby and Josh nailed the art of subtle sophistication with a striking palette of black and white. It takes confidence to keep things this minimal, but they knew their style and weren't afraid to let their personalities take center stage. Shelby chose a gown that effortlessly mixed vintage glam with contemporary chic—an off-the-shoulder satin mermaid silhouette enhanced by beaded lace detailing on the sleeves and along the sides. Paired with her soft-glam makeup and Hollywood-inspired waves, the look was a nod to Old Hollywood glamour, elevated by modern refinement.
Josh brought his own impeccable style to the occasion, too. His sleek black tuxedo, classic bowtie, and black velvet slip-ons were the dashing cherries on top. But it was the thoughtfully chosen accents, like his black and white ruffled pocket square and single white orchid boutonnière, that made his ensemble feel fresh and fashion-forward. And when he swapped his black tux for a striking ivory jacket at the reception, it reminded everyone that the groom deserves a style moment, too.
Together, Shelby and Josh walked into their wedding day like stars on a red carpet. They felt bold, confident, and completely authentic—exactly how every couple should feel on their wedding day.
Tesserae Rooftop Wedding at Atlanta's Thompson Hotel Buckhead
Choosing Tesserae as the backdrop for their black-tie wedding was smart for several reasons. Hosting your wedding within the city limits offers an unbeatable mix of urban elegance and unmatched convenience. Atlanta venues like Tesserae provide built-in charm, world-class amenities, and ease of travel for the couple and their guests. Out-of-town friends and family didn't have to stress about long drives to and from remote venues or navigating complicated logistics. Instead, guests could relax and enjoy their weekend in the city, sharing in Shelby and Josh's celebration without the hassle.
And let’s talk about that skyline. When you're getting married in a city as vibrant as Atlanta, why not lean into the backdrop it naturally provides? Tesserae's rooftop location offered Shelby and Josh's guests a breathtaking view of Atlanta’s skyline, serving as a dramatic and ever-changing backdrop throughout the ceremony and reception. From glowing sunset to glittering nighttime lights, the cityscape amplified their sophisticated aesthetic and created a romantic, cosmopolitan atmosphere that made everyone fall head over heels.
Shelby and Josh understood the balance between highlighting their personal style and letting the venue speak for itself. Tesserae’s design elements—velvet sofas, geometric patterns, marble countertops, and granite walls—paired seamlessly with the couple’s refined taste. They smartly chose simple additions, such as ghost chairs, lush yet understated florals, and plenty of warm, glowing candles. The result? A thoughtfully designed, timeless wedding where Shelby and Josh remained the focus, with a venue that complemented—never overshadowed—their vision.
Local Lens, Big Impact: Reasons to Hire an Atlanta-based Photographer
As an Atlanta-based photographer, I've learned it's important for couples to choose a photographer familiar with their city and its venues. Capturing a rooftop city wedding requires a different approach that embraces dynamic lighting, unique angles, and the ever-changing urban landscape. Having shot many weddings in Atlanta, I'm familiar with the best spots, the most flattering angles, and the perfect timing for the iconic city skyline portraits couples dream of. It makes the entire process more seamless and enjoyable for everyone involved.
For Shelby and Josh, this meant they could enjoy their day knowing I'd catch all the natural, authentic moments alongside the carefully planned details. One highlight for me was their sunset reception entry, which perfectly captured the couple’s essence and the energy of the evening. And while I love a classic fine art portrait, some of my favorite images from their day came from the direct flash shots capturing candid moments of laughter, dancing, and pure joy. Shelby and Josh got to live fully in the moment, trusting that their wedding day memories were in experienced and capable hands.
Celebrating Iconic "I Do's" at the Tesserae Rooftop Atlanta
Ultimately, Shelby and Josh's wedding at Tesserae was a standout, not only because of their stylish design and impeccable taste but also because they prioritized authenticity over trends. They embraced their vision and allowed their personalities and heartfelt connection to shine. Their day beautifully demonstrates how timeless elegance can still be personal, meaningful, and tons of fun.
If you're dreaming of a city-chic wedding with a glamorous edge, Shelby and Josh's rooftop celebration at Tesserae might be all the inspiration you need. And if you're looking for a photographer who knows and loves Atlanta weddings, I'd be honored to help you tell your story in a way that's both polished and genuine—capturing not just how your wedding looks, but how it feels. Because at the end of the day, your wedding photos should reflect more than just beautiful details; they should capture your connection, your joy, and every unforgettable moment in between.
