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...
One of the things about being wedding-obsessed is that we’ve seen (more than) our share of Big Days thrown here in Charleston. So for us to pass on a post to you, it’s got to be an event that was exquisitely rendered (this time by Boutique Planning) and, even better, one that’s novel in how the venue was decorated or perhaps in how the day was celebrated. The former especially comes into play with Hoboken, New Jersey, residents Cosette and Andrew’s nuptials at The Gadsden House. The two, who met in school and commuted between the College of Charleston (her) and Wake Forest in Winston Salem, North Carolina (him), invited guests to their al fresco ceremony that just so happens to boast some of the loveliest flowers around. Check out how The Purple Magnolia accented the circa 1798 former residence’s fireplace mantels with organic arrangements, its staircase with that bountiful garland, and its courtyard’s ceremony tree with what looks like a blooming garden of roses, and you’ve got beautiful touches everywhere on the property. That alone creates an allure that invites guests to explore the property—one of the best aspects of fêtes in our local historic homes. Next? Consider Swank Desserts’ nearly naked cake: We love how pastry chef Danetra Richardson used the berry filling to add color to the confection. (Pro tip: Don’t let your naked cake go entirely nude; icing it lightly or using jams and fillings to do the same help the exposed cake layers retain moisture.) Bravo all around, and our very best to the happy couple.
Planning: Boutique Planning | Florals: The Purple Magnolia | Photographer: Anne Rhett Photography | Venue: The Gadsden House | Rentals: Snyder Events | Lighting: Technical Event Company and Innovative Event Services | Catering: Cru Catering | Cake: Swank Desserts | Music: Charleston Virtuosi and International Musicians League | Hair and Makeup: Lashes and Lace
