Timeless Romance at The Westin Columbus
There are some weddings that stay with you—and Ty and Rachel’s summer celebration at the historic Westin Great Southern in downtown Columbus was absolutely one of them. From the moment I stepped into the grand ballroom, I knew this wedding was going to be something special. The Westin itself is already a showstopper: tall ceilings, ornate gold accents, and a timeless elegance that gives every wedding a regal feel. But Ty and Rachel took it one step further, adding their own creative, romantic spin on the space—and the result was nothing short of magical.
The ballroom, with its ivory walls, gilded details, and massive chandeliers, already provides an elegant backdrop for just about any style. But what made this one unique was how they brought nature indoors. Rachel had a vision: an indoor garden party that felt both whimsical and refined. And she pulled it off flawlessly.
Lush, free-form floral arrangements in deep greens and rich reds softened the formality of the room and added a moody, romantic vibe that was absolutely dreamy to photograph. Instead of going the traditional route with centerpieces and décor, they leaned into texture and tone. Moss-covered lanterns, baskets spilling over with greenery, wine cork accents, and hand-painted wooden signs brought a rustic charm that balanced out the ballroom’s grandeur.
It’s not easy to take a space as opulent as the Westin and make it feel intimate and earthy—but somehow, Ty and Rachel did just that. Walking into their reception felt like stepping into a secret garden tucked inside a golden palace. Every detail, from the soft flicker of candlelight to the natural textures of the décor, told a story of who they are as a couple—down-to-earth, romantic, and thoughtful.
From a photographer’s standpoint, the lighting was perfection. The dim, warm glow of the chandeliers mixed with twinkle lights and lanterns created an ambiance that felt cozy and cinematic all at once. During the couple’s first dance, the way the light bounced off Rachel’s dress and highlighted the expressions on their faces—it’s the kind of moment we live for behind the lens.
And let’s talk about the people. Ty and Rachel were surrounded by such a genuine, joyful group of family and friends. Everyone was fully present, soaking in every second. It made documenting their day feel effortless. Candid hugs, happy tears, spontaneous dance floor twirls—it was a celebration filled with authentic emotion.
Some favorite moments? Rachel’s quiet moment with her dad just before the ceremony. The way Ty lit up the second he saw her walking down the aisle. Their post-dinner sunset portraits on the front steps of the Westin, where the summer light hit just right. And of course, the packed dance floor that didn’t slow down once the music started. It was a party, yes—but it was also filled with tenderness, meaning, and a whole lot of heart.
Ty and Rachel’s wedding was the perfect blend of historic charm and nature-inspired romance, and it was an honor to be the one to capture it all. If you're planning a wedding at the Westin Columbus—or dreaming of transforming a grand space into something personal and poetic—take a page from this celebration. It’s proof that when you infuse your day with intention, it becomes something unforgettable.
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Vendors:
Florist: Bear Roots Floral
Cake: The Cake Studio
Dress: White of Dublin































































































































“Robb McCormick Photography is an award-winning wedding photographer based in Columbus, Ohio. Recognized by many organizations and blogs, including Fearless Photographer, The Knot, Popsugar, and Maharani Weddings, his photography is both creative and timeless.”