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...
It all started in Hollywood, California, with a bright yellow truck. When Corey dropped his friend off to meet his wife at her pal’s place, he spotted a stunning pickup in the driveway there. The owner? Sarah, said wife’s friend. Corey tagged along inside, and walked smack into Sarah belting out a song, no holds barred. He joined right in, and the day quickly turned into a double date. Later that night, Corey and Sarah eventually slipped away for solo drinks and laughs. He walked her home and when they arrived at her doorstep, the two shared a … hug. But fear not! Immediately after, they each texted their friends, “Thank you,” and three years later, they were amidst a proposal that recreated that first date, right down to hanging out with the same other couple. At the end of that double date, Corey pretended to drop his keys, got down on one knee, and said, “Three years ago I messed up this date by not asking for your number. Tonight I want to ask you to marry me.” Sarah said “Yes!” (obv) and the two next walked into the Los Angeles house, where their friends had secretly gathered to celebrate with them. Corey, who was born and raised in Charleston, and Sarah both love the antebellum style of the Holy City, so the pair hit the jackpot picking The William Aiken House for their venue. Of course, a romance that kicked off with a yellow pickup has to have a flair-filled wedding, and they didn’t disappoint. (Did we mention Sarah is an event designer in her own right?) Their precious pooch, Archer, made for the most handsome ring bearer, greeting everyone on his walk down the aisle. And since the duo love vintage everything, an awesome 1972 Honda motorcycle and a 1947 Desoto convertible made cameos, too. Then, after the ceremony, everyone joined the couple next door at The American Theater, where they were greeted by ushers in vintage uniforms, and a video screening that the groom (a bonafide film industry camera man) had edited. Snacks, boozy pops, and dancing followed, and so went one of the most Hollywood-style stories we’ve seen unfold on our storied streets.
Planning and Coordination: Loli Events | Images: Max Wagner Photography | Venue: The William Aiken House + American Theater | Catering, cake: Patrick Properties Hospitality Group | Music: Élan Artists + River City Dixieland Jazz Band + Charlton Singleton + The Flashdance | Bride’s Attire: Hayley Paige | Gifts: A Signature Welcome
