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...
If, after looking at these photos, you find yourself scrolling down to the vendor credits to see which planner was at the helm of this traditional-meets-artsy fête at The Cedar Room, you won’t find anyone listed. That’s because bride Caroline was her own wedding maestro—and she did most of the prep from out of state, to boot. (She has a background in design, and runs stationery house Fawn Paper Co.) Talk about impressive. The bride, who moved to Charleston last summer from Oregon for her now-husband Matt’s job (he’s an officer in the U.S. Navy), let her creativity come across in every element of the decor, from the mix-and-match vintage-style chairs for ceremony seating and the altar of doors (both from The French Eclectic) to the trolley stop sign at the reception. All of the details set the stage for not only their sweet nuptials, but also for their families to connect—for the first time—that weekend. Thankfully, everyone hit it off and everything went off without a hitch. The only member missing from the celebrations? Their pup, Dallas, who isn’t a big fan of crowds. Don’t worry, though, the couple ensured he was still present by naming their signature cocktail after him. What a fantastic beginning to their new life here on the East Coast! (P.S. You might not be able to tell from these shots, but the couple read each other personal vows at their first look to keep that element private. Later, they followed a classic ceremony with recited pledges.)
Day-of Coordinator: Brianna Schwartz with The Simply Elegant Group | Florals: Coastal Creations | Photographer: Rachel Craig Photography | Videographer: Kristen Kiraly Films and Lowcountry Wedding Films | Venue: The Cedar Room at The Cigar Factory | Rentals: The French Eclectic and Eventhaus | Linens: Eventhaus | Catering: Mercantile and Mash | Invitations: Fawn Paper Co. | Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Lowcountry Pianist | Reception Music: Jay Maxwell’s Music by Request | Bride’s Gown: Hayley Paige from Kleinfeld | Jewelry: Peridot Fine Jewelry | Hair and Makeup: Lashes and Lace | Nails: Mylkbar
