Written By Melissa Reardon
Photographs By Lucy Cuneo
A transplant from Virginia, Weston “Wes” McAfee vividly remembers the first time he saw his future bride-to-be. Charleston native Dana Elaine...
Smartie pants Jessica and Josh signed up for the same class during their sophomore year at the College of Charleston and that was what ultimately sparked the romantic connection between the New Jersey natives. Sure, they were friends before as Jessica’s college roomie grew up with Josh, but they soon realized that all the studying and walking to class together was merely an excuse to spend more time together as a pair. It wasn’t until they shared their first smooch at their favorite bar O’Malley’s (which later inspired their first dance song, “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur) that they began their six(ish) year long courtship. When it came time to propose, Jessica had no idea that Josh had it all mapped out. During a Christmas dinner date night out, Josh faked a stomachache due to “bad oysters” so that he could escort his gal back to their Hoboken, New Jersey, apartment. He bolted up the stairs and Jessica meandered in soon after, thinking Josh may need a little alone time, to find her beau on one knee surrounded by lush rose petals. How could you say no to that? (She said yes, obvi.) The duo returned to their alma mater for an alfresco wedding at Lowndes Grove Plantation that fulfilled all of their wildest wedding wishes. The serene Lowcountry views inspired their wooden guest book, a sweet touch, while Jessica’s many young attendees added a humorous touch. “My favorite story is how Nathan (our red headed nephew) cried the entire way down the aisle but at the very last moment, let out a big smile for some of the guests snapping photos,” says Jess. And their nieces and nephews weren’t the only littles incorporated into their Big Day. Their darling pooch, Lola, had to be present for it all and boy, did she elicit some “awww’s.” After a relaxing honeymoon in Amalfi Coast, the newlyweds are adjusting to married life and looking to purchase house in the suburbs with a big backyard for Lola!
Planner + Design: Boutique Planning | Florals: Roadside Blooms | Images: Aaron and Jillian Photography | Videographer: His and Hers Creative | Venue: Lowndes Grove Plantation | Rentals: Snyder Rentals + Patrick Properties Hospitality Group | Catering + Bar + Cake: Patrick Properties Hospitality Group | Calligraphy: J Lily Design | Invitations: Zazzle | Music: OtherBrother Entertainment | Bride’s Attire: Lovely Bride + Limor Rosen + Hoboken Gold & Diamonds + Jimmy Choo + Swarovski| Beauty: Lashes and Lace | Bridesmaids Attire: Show Me Your Mumu | Men’s Attire: Tates Menswear| Photo Booth: Little White Box | Getaway Car: Lowcountry Valet | Transportation: ACW Limo
