Sarah Knowles & Benjamin Creasy
November 28, 2020 / The Lake House at Bulow
Sarah and Ben had already signed their marriage license when Charleston shut down due to COVID two days before their March 2020 wedding. The couple—friends since they were 15 and together since New Year’s Eve, 2015—“decided to go for it” anyway with a backyard ceremony for immediate family.
“The day was a reflection of what marriage should look like,” says Sarah. “We had to roll with the punches and rely on each other and our support system to make it happen.” That included neighbors running to Publix for barbecue and a friend borrowing chairs from her workplace.
When the couple finally got to celebrate with 90 of their nearest and dearest, they held a jewel-toned boho-style ceremony and reception at The Lake House at Bulow, a property of the Charleston County Park System. “It is like no other venue in town,” says Sarah. “There’s a hiking trail around the lake. … What other venue allows for the bride and groom to bring their kayaks and paddle the day before the wedding?” They rented the house for the week, so they could spend time with friends and family there before, during, and after.
Rain persisted throughout the day, but an hour before the ceremony, the weather turned. They were able to wed outdoors in front of the lake, amid rustic natural beauty.
Top Tips
1. Don’t skip wedding insurance. A lot of things are truly out of your control and you will have more peace of mind if you know you’re insured.
2. Timing is everything. Consider taking photos before the wedding so you can enjoy a little time alone together right after the ceremony. Sarah and Ben had a private table upstairs and away from guests during cocktail hour so they could spend that special time together.
3. Keep it simple. Planning a wedding can be overwhelming. Give yourself less to do. Sarah had open seating for dinner, allowing guests to mingle as they wished. It was less work for the bride and guests enjoyed the freedom.
Vendors
Coordination: Allora Solutions Group
Venue: The Lake House at Bulow
Images: Deirdre + Jon
Catering, cake, bar: Duvall Catering + Events
Florals: Charleston Flower Market & Duvall Catering + Events
Rentals: Snyder Events
Beauty: Lashes & Lace
Entertainment: DJ Miketech
