The sign of a couple who truly believe in family first? They make their guests feel as special as they do on their Big Day. So it went for bride Lenore Wilson, who wed Chad Cusick downtown last May. Lenore’s 92-year-old grandmother Jean Ellis Altman (nicknamed “G”) is the only remaining grandparent between the newlyweds and is very close to her granddaughter. “She taught me to celebrate the small moments in life,” says Lenore, “and, most importantly, how to be a great wife. G is a huge part of my life and it was my absolute honor to share the spotlight with her.” Amen to that! Read on for how to include elders and other people of honor during your wedding.
TAKEAWAYS
Ask what photos they want. G requested to be snapped with Lenore outside the church before either walked down the aisle. (The image went viral nationally after being featured on The Knot.)
Dress up their gear. G’s walker sported a corsage.
Be inclusive. To include G in the wedding parade from the church to the reception, the couple tucked her into a rickshaw sporting a flower-accented calligraphed sign reading “Grandmother of the Bride.”
Name a drink after them. G’s favorite drink is a gin martini so the couple’s martini bar featured a “G-tini.”
Play their song. Include some favorite tunes from all the generations on your guest list.
Recognize birthdays. G turned 92 within days of the wedding, as did three other guests, so each got their own mini cake at the reception.
Vendors
Design, florals: Gathering Events
Photography: Virgil Bunao Photography
Cake: Wedding Cakes by Jim Smeal
Venue: First Scots Presbyterian Church (ceremony)
Bride’s gown: Buckhead Bridals
Beauty: Nikole Morrow-Pettus of Van Michael Salon (makeup); Rod Lawson of Van Michael Salon (hair)
Bride’s dresser: Cacky’s Bride + Aid
Groom’s attire: Grady Ervin & Co.
Parade musicians: The Carolina Bagpiper
Rickshaw: Charleston Rickshaw
Rickshaw sign: Nico and Lala
