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 boons to hosting a destination wedding here in Charleston? Giving your guests a true taste of the city. So it went for Washington D.C. residents Jessica Friedes and Garrett Nichols, high school sweethearts who married this past March. The pair were clever enough to book a private historic site, an “unlisted” venue that has one of the most charming courtyard gardens downtown, that’s tucked between Broad and Chalmers streets for their nuptials. With St. Michael’s bells chiming in the distance and Washington Square Park just over a mossy brick wall, this spot is as local as it gets. Before the ceremony there (officiated by a pal in perhaps the best mustache this blog has ever seen), they shared a quietly humbling first look, then headed out to revel at the moment (and that Hayley Paige gown) with portraits snapped on the cobblestone street. Following their vows, they invited everyone to yet another Holy City gem, the Historic Rice Mill, which sits on the Ashley River and looks out upon the Charleston City Marina. So secret garden—check. Cobblestone lane—check. Drinks, dining, and dancing in a centuries-old building with water views—check. Yep, these two nailed it. Enjoy the insider’s tour of the town with all the lovely stylings by Samantha Anderson Events (and a newbie to us, Lux & Union florists).
Photographer: Ava Moore Photography | Planning & Design: Samantha Anderson Events | Ceremony Venue: Private Venue | Reception Venue: Historic Rice Mill | Florist: Lux & Union | Cake: ABCD Cakes | Band: Travis Allison Band | Hair & Makeup: Lashes & Lace | Catering: Good Food Catering | Invitation Suite: Minted | Videographer: Siegel Films | Gown: Hayley Paige found locally at Lovely Bride. | Bridesmaids dresses: Dessy Group | Ring: Vatche | Officiant: Chuck Waugh
