Alexandra Stevenson & Nicholas Galati
October 10, 2020 / Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Nick Galati and Ali are a couple that makes moves. After the pair was initially set up by Ali’s sorority sister and her boyfriend (who’s also Nick’s cousin), they agreed to meet in-person the following week. The kicker? The duo was meeting for the first time at the Miami airport, hours before flying to Key West for a weekend getaway with friends. “My favorite memory from the trip was when Nick was asked how long he had a girlfriend and he replied, ‘I think it’s been about six hours,’” laughs Ali. Three years later, the pair had their sights set on the Holy City to swap “I dos.” Though when their Big Day rolled around, so did the clouds. Their alfresco reception included aptly chosen oyster place cards, white and dusty blue arrangements of bountiful anemones (the bride’s fave) and spiky thistle, and—wait for it—a dance floor that ended up completely underwater by the end of the night. “We had water, bugs, frogs, and mud, but that wasn’t going to stop us from having a great time!” says Ali. Right on.
Top Tips
• Honor key guests who are unable to attend. Ali and Nick’s wedding cake was displayed on Ali’s grandmother’s cake stand that had been in the family for 90 years.
• Enhance décor elements with lots of lighting. Five chandeliers and café lighting helped set the mood for this tented reception, which included a cigar bar with seating area, a nod to the bride’s Cuban roots.
• If opting for nontraditional place cards, make certain the surface is smooth enough for calligraphy.
• The Galatis incorporated a custom neon sign into their reception. More than just a fun party pop, keep the sign for your newlywed nest as a colorful reminder of your very special day.
Vendors
Design, planning: Tara Skinner Weddings & Events
Venue: Magnolia Plantation & Gardens
Photography: Lauren Myers Photography
Florals: Flora by Andraya
Catering: Rosemary & Rye
Bar Service: Squeeze on Site
Cake: ABCD Cakes
Rentals: EventWorks Rentals, Nüage Designs (napkins)
Lighting: Innovative Event Services
Neon sign: Wedding Lights (Etsy)
Stationery: K. Kelly Designs (invitations)
Bride’s attire: Rita Vinieris
Beauty: Hair by Charlotte
Music: Steel Toe Stiletto
Videographer: Serio Visuals
Transportation: Lowcountry Valet, SC Express
