When College of Charleston grads Kelsie Pharr and James Helton began dating three years ago, they started a super-sweet (and super steal-worthy) tradition: once a month, the Holy City couple heads out to Station 13 on Sullivan’s Island to enjoy a picnic breakfast. And though last July’s early-morning rendezvous seemed run-of-the-mill at first Kelsie quickly learned that James had been secretly scheming for half a year to make this particular breakfast date especially special. When they arrived, their go-to spot was adorned with fresh flowers and photos of the couple from throughout their courtship. As James proposed and Kelsie said “Yes,” a close friend (and future bridesmaid) of hers snapped shots from a hiding spot nearby. Afterward, James surprised his fiancé yet again with a post-proposal celebration with family and friends under the oaks at White Point Gardens. The pair will wed April 2, 2016, in Conway—the bride’s hometown.
Photograph by Emily Bolt