Jillian Taylor Lowman & David Cranford
June 1, 2024 • Old Wide Awake
It seems impossible for Taylor Lowman and David Cranford to pinpoint precisely when and where they met. The Columbia, South Carolina, natives always shared friends growing up but were never officially introduced. They also shared a love of music and a passion for traveling across the country to catch live shows of their favorite artists. For some time, David was simply “that guy I see everywhere I go,” Taylor laughs. But it wouldn’t always be that way. After college, the two developed a friendship that eventually blossomed into love.
Flash-forward six years, with David heading to Paris on a work trip and Taylor tagging along. Having invited herself, she never expected that David had the surprise of a lifetime in store. While touring the catacombs of Paris, the couple stopped in front of skulls arranged in the shape of a heart, and David dropped to one knee. Deep beneath the City of Light, the perfectly quirky proposal took Taylor’s breath away.
For their big day, the couple set their sights on the Lowcountry. The area is dear to them, with Taylor’s family owning a beach house on Edisto Island and the duo having enjoyed many visits over the years. They found their dream venue in Old Wide Awake, a circa-1800 property in Hollywood along the Stono River with stately oaks and grand wraparound porches. Plus, the venue’s in-house manager would make event coordination a snap—especially when paired with the planning prowess of Meagan Warren. All told, it became a dream scenario for the decidedly hands-off bride.
In early planning conversations, Taylor cast a vision of a bright and fun spring porch party then let Meagan take it from there. Taylor’s love of chartreuse inspired a citrus color palette, while whimsical design details like disco balls and Technicolor straws for sipping spritzes infused even more vibrancy into the historic setting. Add in the couple’s favorite tunes, and it was the perfect backdrop for convening loved ones who hadn’t seen one another in ages. Or, as Taylor put it, “getting the band back together.”
Vendors
Planning & Design: Meagan Warren Weddings
Photography: Catherine Ann Photography
Florals: Festoon Charleston
Catering & Bar: Southern Way
Cake: The Cake Stand
Rentals: Snyder Events
Linens: BBJ La Tavola
Stationery & Signage: Viri Lovely Designs
Entertainment: Palmetto Strings (ceremony), The Midnight City Band (reception)
Bridal Attire: Renhue (gown), Lovely Bride (boutique)
Beauty: Lashes and Lace
Groom’s Attire: Brittons of Columbia
Bridesmaids’ Attire: Jenny Yoo (dresses), Bella Bridesmaids (boutique)
