Hi Friends,
I’m so excited to share a behind-the-scenes look at our recent wedding in Charleston, South Carolina! It was a weekend filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories, and I’m thrilled to give you a glimpse into the events, decor, and personal touches that made it so special.
The Perfect Charleston Setting
Our wedding weekend began with the perfect backdrop—Charleston, the city we call home. Hosting it here made the celebration not only convenient for our guests but also an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the charm of this beautiful city.
Thursday’s Informal Gathering
We kicked off the festivities on Thursday with an informal gathering at our home, a relaxed evening designed to welcome out-of-town guests. A bartender friend served drinks and appetizers, and the event, with its birthday-slash-wedding kickoff theme, was the perfect way to start connecting with loved ones.
Bridesmaids’ Luncheon
The bridesmaids’ luncheon was another highlight of the weekend. Hosted by a close friend at her beautiful home, the luncheon felt intimate and special. As a token of appreciation, I gifted each bridesmaid a custom portrait that doubled as a place card, tying into the wedding’s color scheme. My “something borrowed” for the day was a pair of vintage earrings from our gracious host, a detail that made the moment even more meaningful.
A Rehearsal Dinner to Remember
Our rehearsal dinner at Bowen’s Island was a dream come true. This Charleston favorite, with its casual elegance, provided the perfect setting. With string lights twinkling above and oysters steaming in the background, the atmosphere was warm and inviting—a true reflection of our Lowcountry style.
Welcome Party at the Iconic American Theater
For guests who weren’t able to attend the rehearsal dinner, we hosted a welcome party at the iconic American Theater, famously featured in The Notebook. This gave us a chance to enjoy more personal conversations with everyone before the big reception, and the theater’s classic charm made for an unforgettable venue. Watch a short TikTok video here.
Wedding Reception Highlights
The reception itself was filled with energy and joy, thanks in part to the little details we added to make it uniquely ours. From using my parents’ cake topper to my mother’s custom napkins, personal touches were woven throughout. We also included fun elements like passed slippers and dance floor props to keep the energy high all night long. Our band, Georgia Bridgewater, was absolutely phenomenal, and they ensured the dance floor was packed from start to finish.
The Little Details
The magic of the weekend was in the little details that made the celebration uniquely ours. We treated guests to passed espresso martinis and Old Fashioneds during the reception, followed by a hibachi-inspired late-night snack to keep the energy high. Custom napkins added a personal touch, and we used my parents’ cherished cake topper for a sentimental nod to their love story. For the guest book, we chose a beautifully designed book that will double as a coffee table keepsake, ensuring the memories of this special day stay close to our hearts. It’s these thoughtful touches that made the day feel so personal and unforgettable.
Post-Reception Celebration
Even after the reception ended, the celebration continued at the Dewberry bar, where we gathered with close friends for a final toast. It was the perfect way to close out such a memorable day.
Reflections on the Weekend
Reflecting on the weekend, one of the most meaningful parts of the process was finding ways to bring our personalities into every aspect of the celebration. From sentimental heirlooms to custom artwork, these details added a layer of intimacy and creativity that made the experience even more special.
Thank you for letting me share this chapter of my life with you! I hope it inspires you to bring your own personality and creativity into your celebrations, no matter the occasion.
XOXO,
Hayley
P.S. I’d love to hear about any unique details you included in your own special events—reply to this email and share!
Weekly Recs
This week I️ thought I’d highlight a few items from the wedding. Let me know what you think.
