If the Kennedy’s were Southern THIS would have been the quintessential Kennedy-esque wedding. But since they were not, the gorgeous that is this Charleston wedding belongs solely to the couple tying the knot. And it’s 100% stunning. Luke Wilson Special Events designed + planned an affair worthy of a book, and with Kim Graham Photography behind her lens, it’s camera ready too. Click here to see more of the pretty, pretty soiree!
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Since we met and live in Charleston, David and I could not imagine getting married anywhere other than downtown Charleston. We wanted to create an intimate ceremony and reception that allowed our guests to enjoy the history and beauty that is so unique to Charleston. The Governor Thomas Bennett House, circa 1825, provided the perfect backdrop. I envisioned an elegant, timeless and neutral palette of champagne, ivory and gold, so as not to compete with the historic and natural garden setting of the house. Luke Wilson Special Events not only created this vision but so exceeded our expectations with attention to every detail. To say that everything was exactly as we envisioned is an understatement, as I never imagined that the setting would feel so magical. From the flowers, decor and candlelight to celebrating with our closest friends and family, I loved every minute and detail of our wedding.
We met our first year of law school. The beginning months of our relationship consisted primarily of flirting via instant messaging from our laptops only a few seats away from one another in the library. I saved a lot of the IM conversations, and they are so funny to read now (we were so cheesy!). David definitely made what was supposed to be the most challenging academic years of my life the most enjoyable. He always found a way to make me laugh despite the long, monotonous hours of studying. Needless to say, I think a couple that can sustain a relationship while studying for the bar together has a pretty infallible relationship! We lived in different cities post-law school, each trying to advance our careers. While the distance was tough, I truly believe it made our relationship even stronger. After we relocated to Charleston, David surprised me with the sweetest engagement on a Thursday before my birthday. He flew me to New York for a fun celebration with friends and we married one year and one day later.
Before the wedding, I often heard how difficult it is to remember details of your ceremony and reception because the day is such a whirlwind and flies by so quickly. Because I heard this so many times, I tried so hard to absorb and retain every minute and detail. I vividly remember so many moments of the day that made it so special. Some of my favorite memories are:
1) Getting ready with all my bridesmaids and mother in the upstairs of the Governor Thomas Bennett House. My bridesmaids included my sister, David’s sisters and friends from all stages of life-highschool, college, and law school. Spending those hours during the day with my favorite ladies helped to keep me relaxed and was so enjoyable.
2) Our first dance. David has two left feet, but I love to dance. We did not have time to take dance lessons before our wedding, and despite my 16 years of dancing, I was quite fearful of how I would begin to teach someone so uncoordinated to dance or to at least refrain from stepping on my feet in front of a crowd! The weeks before our wedding, we practiced and David shocked me how determined he was to learn. Although we kept it simple, I think he surprised everyone with his moves. It was definitely a fun moment!
3) My father’s toast. My dad rarely gets emotional, but he did during his toast. Perhaps because I am the last of his daughters to give away. After the wedding, he apologized for letting his emotions get the best of him but explained that he is just so grateful that my sister and I married into such wonderful families. I think that means so much to my parents, and the moment just moved him. People still comment to me that it was the sweetest father’s toast they have ever heard.
Photography: Kim Graham Photography / Flowers: Timeless Designs for LWSE / Event Planning & Design: Luke Wilson Special Events / Ceremony & Reception Location: The Governor Thomas Bennett House / Band: Loose Chain / Ceremony Musicians: Charleston Flutist, LLC / Stationery: Studio-R-Designs / Calligraphy: Elizabeth Porcher Jones / Catering: Cru Catering / Bar: Snyder Bar / Tent: Snyder Event Rentals / Rentals: Event DRS / Linens: BBJ Linens / Lighting: IES Productions / Cake: Wedding Cakes by Jim Smeal / Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Dress Designer: Marisa / Bridesmaid Dress Designer: Amsale / Men’s Fashion: Men’s Wearhouse