Just ask any artist: inspiration can come from anywhere—and sometimes, the best is found in the most unexpected of places. Such was the case for these October nuptials, which started with a spooky seedling: Disney’s Haunted Mansion. When planner Amy DeVito learned about clients Jenny Lee and John Bowman’s affinity for the theme park attraction and eagerness to step outside of the box on their big day, she knew just the florist for the job: Noah Sanderson—aka the Bearded Florist. Sanderson is known for his unique eye and smart use of color, which he credits to studying studio art at the College of Charleston. Post-grad, he realized color theory could apply as seamlessly to floral work as any creative pursuit. So, for a designer who has built a reputation elevating florals to an art form, where better to show it all off than this fête at the Gibbes Museum of Art? Sanderson eschewed muted neutrals in favor of bright, punchy jewel tones and conjured up daring displays of whimsy to the couple’s surprise and delight.
Charleston Weddings (CW): What was the vision for this wedding?
Noah Sanderson: The initial palette was dark and moody, inspired by the couple loving Haunted Mansion. I think it started as a light joke, but was a great way to add personality! I loved how unique it was and knew we could channel it without being cheesy.
CW: How did you shape it?
NS: With any wedding, I like to stretch the concept a bit—what could be an unexpected accent color, a rule breaker ingredient to create interest without going too far off? In this case, it was more cream and peach, pops of brighter colors, and memorable accessories.
CW: Tell us about how you brought everything together.
NS: We considered all design elements (chairs, linens, that great patinated mirrored bar) to ensure everything is vibing. We pulled dark-toned vessels and votives to counter the bright florals and table linens. But some details were more spontaneous, like the small moss arrangements on tables—an on-site decision!
CW: Share some favorite details.
NS: The bust vase and electric wick candles were great, both nods to Haunted Mansion. We also placed small crows on some flowers. I love little surprises—like a guest only noticing the crow in the gerbera daisy for the first time during the second course!
CW: Safe to say this wedding was a lesson in trusting your vendors?
NS: Absolutely! There is always a good balance in showing some design direction but also leaving space for creativity. Perhaps most important: choose vendors whose overall design and approach align with your vision.
Vendors
Venue: Gibbes Museum of Art
Planning & Design: Buttercup Events
Florals: The Bearded Florist
Photography: Catherine Ann Photography
Rentals: Synder Events
Linens: Nüage Designs
Catering & Bar: Cru Catering
Lighting: Lowcountry Entertainment
Videography: Micheal O’Loughlin Films
Entertainment: Charleston Entertainment, DJ Natty Heavy
Beauty: Slate Hair and Makeup
