If you’ve ever walked down King Street on a Saturday evening, you know Charleston’s the “It City” for bachelorette parties. So when North Carolina native and bride-to-be Cristen decided to hold her...
By Joanne O’Sullivan | Images by Brandon Lata Photography
Few people anywhere in the world were sorry to see 2020 come to an end. For Olivia Jenkins and Charles “Charlie” McPherson III, the start of a new year was the perfect time to celebrate their new life together as a married couple. “I’ve always loved big parties and I love entertaining. I wanted my wedding to be one that our friends and family would never forget,” says Olivia. Besides, she adds “What better year to end with something fun and happy, surrounded by your friends and family, than 2020?”
The ceremony took place at First Baptist Church, with the reception at The Cedar Room, outfitted with gold and jewel-toned accents and a dash of velvet. “We wanted a traditional, classic Charleston wedding with a touch of glam for New Year’s,” says event planner Chloe Ewing with A Charleston Bride. The La Tavola table overlays lent sparkle, and for some classic Hollywood flair, Technical Events Company created a custom neon sign proclaiming the newlyweds’ last name. The custom bar transitioned into a cigar bar later in the evening. “People still talk” about the cigar rollers at the wedding as well as the oysters, Olivia says. The neatly packaged house-made donuts (the groom’s favorite) that were served as a late-night snack were also a big hit.
As 12 a.m. approached, hats and other props were passed around for the new year’s celebration. The Motown band led the room in a countdown, and as the clock struck midnight, guests were surprised by a shower of confetti. The joy in the room was palpable as everyone toasted the new couple and the new year. There was so much to celebrate. “It was truly the most perfect day,” says Olivia. “Your wedding day will be the best day of your lives but having it on a holiday makes it even more special.”
1. Do keep in mind that prices go up around the holidays.
2. Do have a few fun photo op props for your guests that also add to your wedding décor.
3. Do have buses with designated pick-up locations for your guests, so they have a safe way to get home after midnight and don’t have to worry about Uber wait times on New Year’s Eve.
4. Don’t forget to eat! Getting married on New Year’s Eve means you will be partying until the next morning.
5. Do have a wedding planner or at least a day-of planner to make sure your day is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
6. Don’t forget to enjoy every second of it.
Planning & Design: A Charleston Bride
Images: Brandon Lata Photography
Venue, catering, bar: The Cedar Room
Florals: Vero Designs (ceremony), Stephanie Gibbs Events (reception)
Rentals: Snyder Events, Ooh! Events, EventWorks
Linens: La Tavola
Lighting: Technical Event Company
Stationery: Studio R Design
Entertainment: Classical Charleston (ceremony), Chris Dodson (cocktail hour), Crystal Clear Band (reception)
Transportation: SC Express, Lowcountry Valet
Beauty: Lashes & Lace
Other: Cigar Row Events (cigars), Oysters XO (oysters)
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