When a local event planner decides to throw her own dreamy backyard wedding, you know the evening will be nothing short of inspired. On the lawn of her parent’s John’s Island home, Cross & Dot founder Sara Donahue and her now-husband Tyler Bewley staged a wedding day defined by meaningful details. The couple took a hands-on approach to sourcing and crafting much of their decor, ensuring every element had a story to tell. There was her father’s vintage Ford truck that served as backdrop and Tyler’s great grandfather’s World War II Army chest collecting gifts and cards. No detail was overlooked, including the night’s tunes: the music lovers built their perfect party playlist as a journey through the decades, from Rat Pack vibes during dinner—an Italian family-style feast by Sara’s good friend and local chef Ken Vedrinski—to dancing the night away to the best of the ’80s. The festivities were capped by a surprise fireworks show set against Coldplay’s “A Sky Full of Stars”—a fitting finale for the intimate fall evening soaked in sentiment.
All in the Details
Outside the box. Guests’ RSVPs did double duty and were repurposed as wedding-day table assignment cards, which were calligraphed with table numbers on the back by a family friend.
Sentimental snaps. The groom built the moss-backed seating chart from a store-bought frame. After finding their assignment, guests snapped a Polaroid and pinned it in place of their card—leaving Sara and Tyler with a sweet set of photos from their favorite day.
Groove with me. Who says all weddings have to sound the same? The couple sat down together and planned the soundtrack of their favorite songs to share with their DJ.
Collector’s items. With a bit of foresight, you can fill your big day with an eclectic mix of fun finds. Here, each table was set with a smattering of brass vases, water goblets, and Champagne flutes the bride found antiquing in the months ahead of the wedding.
Vendors
Venue: Private residence
Planning & Design: Cross & Dot
Day of Planner: Experience Holy City
Photography: Justin and Lauren Photography
Florals: Gild Florals
Catering: Wandering Harvest (hors d’oeuvres), Ken Vedrinski (dinner)
Bar: Megan Makes Drinks
Lighting & AV: Production Design Associates
Tenting & Rentals: Curated Events Charleston
Rentals: Snyder Events
Bridal Attire: White on Daniel Island
Entertainment: Elio Stereo
