Charleston natives Marianne Mosely and Rives Sutherland met when they were six, but it wasn’t until an unexpected date to a January bash in 2017 that they realized there could be more to their story. Shy of two years later, the duo was engaged and planning their own version of a holiday gathering. Since their relationship was founded on merrymaking, they continued that theme with their December wedding, mixing classic holiday elements (winter wreaths, poinsettias, and the warm glow of candles) with festive fun, including a four-tiered confetti cake with red and green sprinkles. After tying the knot at First Scots Presbyterian Church, the reception was held at a private club, whose halls were decked in evergreens and accented with vivid crimson. Marianne and Rives toasted the night away with family, friends, and a guest appearance by Jolly Old Saint Nicholas. Talk about the fa-la-la-la-la feels.
Get the Look
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Incorporate subtle seasonality. Marianne selected a Legends by Romona Keveza taffeta gown complete with a one-shoulder neckline and statement bow—an understated nod to the holidays.
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Embrace a holiday color scheme. The ladies at Hill & Co. Creative and Vero Designs chose one hue (red) as the primary color and let that lead for the entirety of the day.
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Dress the table. Let the food be the focal point by choosing china or chargers that highlight the meal. Marianne and Rives selected plates rimmed in gold and adorned with holly berries.
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Add the element of surprise. The holiday season is widely touted for its enchanting qualities, so delight guests with a bit of the unexpected. Marianne and Rives cut into a four-tiered confection to reveal a confetti cake, complete with red and green sprinkles.
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Serve festive cocktails. Consider offering champagne garnished with sprigs of rosemary and cranberries at cocktail hour
Vendors
Design, coordination: Hill & Co. Creative
Photography: Anne Rhett Photography
Florals: Vero Designs
Holiday Door: Gregory Blake Sams Events
Venue: First Scots Presbyterian Church (ceremony)
Rentals: Loluma; Ooh! Events
Linens: Nüage Designs, BBJ Linen
Bridal attire: Legends by Romona Keveza from Maddison Row South (gown); Croghan’s Jewel Box (rings)
Bridesmaid’ attire: Lula Kate from Bella Bridesmaid
Beauty: Ash and Co. Bridal Hair and Makeup
Baker: Charleston Cakes Etc.
