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...
When your first date lasts for six hours, you know there’s something good going. Such was the case for Chicagoans Stephanie and Brandon, who met on Bumble and headed out for happy hour drinks-turned-dinner. Charleston became special for the Windy City pair not only because a visit here marked their first trip together, but also because it is where they first exchanged “I love you’s”. A few years after that auspicious vacay, Brandon and Stephanie were back home getting ready for a Friday night dinner date. Just before they left, Brandon told Stephanie their dog needed to be let out and asked if she would come with him on the walk. Annoyed because she was trying to get ready, Stephanie reluctantly agreed … and was she ever glad! They took their pooch to a nearby park where Brandon got down on one knee and proposed. Stephanie had seen photos of Lowndes Grove Plantation and nothing compared. “It is quintessential Charleston—the beautiful architecture, the waterfront views, and the sunsets,” says Stephanie. “It was everything we wanted our guests (most of who had never been to Charleston) to see, and it is truly a fairy tale venue.” Lauren Miller from ELM Events embraced the bride-to-be’s leanings for a classic, rustic vibe and crafted a setting that gave Ava Moore Photography tons of gorgeous fodder. And check out the food shots! “We didn’t want the typical ‘wedding food,’” says Stephanie, “so we tried to incorporate as many local and Southern dishes as possible.” Incidentally, her biggest regret from the night was that she didn’t eat more—a woman after our own hearts. And as a tip-of-the-hat to their Midwest roots, Brandon and Stephanie served the Chicago snack staple Garrett Popcorn. Sounds like the best of both worlds to us.
Wedding Design: ELM Events | Florals: Roadside Blooms | Photography: Ava Moore Photography | Videography: Lowcountry Wedding Films | Venue, Catering, and Cake: Patrick Properties Hospitality Group | Rentals: Ooh! Events, Snyder Events, EventHaus | Ceremony Music: Classical Charleston | Reception Band: Punch – EastCoast Entertainment | Bride’s Gown: Martina Liana from Simply Luxe Bridal | Bridesmaids’ Attire: Sorella Vita | Beauty: Lashes and Lace | Transportation: Lowcountry Valet & Shuttle Co.
