Hannah Sue & Sean Craig
March 4, 2023 / Middleton Place
During their years of dating, Charlestonians Hannah Sue and Sean Craig enjoyed a lot of the same activities—hiking in the mountains, biking on the beach, and strolling the immaculate gardens at Middleton Place. So following a romantic proposal during a trip to Switzerland, they knew the stately property was where they wanted to say “I do.” The couple worked with Chauncey Finch Boykin of Bouquets and Bowties to plan a wedding that was simply elegant. A lovely blush pink was the color of the day, set against manicured greenery. They wed in the Octagonal Garden, amid soft pink blooms, moss-draped crepe myrtles, and live oaks in a bend of the Ashley River, before a celebratory cocktail hour at the Crane Pool. A custom map by Shine Wedding Invitations helped guests explore the grounds further and even pointed out the bride and groom’s favorite spots.
Middleton Pavilion, where the reception was held, was laden with bouquets of roses and white snapdragons, powder pink linens, and gold flatware. Best wishes were bestowed upon the couple, including a sweet gift from Hannah’s father, who presented the couple with placards bearing traditional Chinese wedding wishes (an homage to her heritage) and their English translations. It was a union of two cultures and two hearts.
Top Tips
• Mind your place settings. A wedding buffet can be as elaborate or as simple as you like. But when it comes to the tablescape, place settings are still important. Create the look of a formal dinner with preset napkins, flatware, and drinkware.
• Map it out. Whether you enlist an illustrator or DIY, custom maps are a fun way to show off your favorite city or place and personalize your special day. They’re great for wedding invitations or welcome bags.
• Think picture-perfect. Sure, a stunning backdrop such as Middleton Place lends itself to stunning photos. But choosing a swoon-worthy venue can also help you save on your budget, as it doesn’t require as much decor; a natural setting holds a wow-factor all its own.
Vendors
Planning & Design: Bouquets and Bowties
Photography: Kailee DiMeglio Photography
Venue & Catering: Middleton Place
Florist: Charleston Flower Girl
Cake & Cupcakes: Publix
Stationery: Shine Wedding Invitations
Linens: EventWorks
Entertainment: Charleston Entertainment (ceremony), DJ Wade (reception)
Transportation: Coastal Limo
Bridal Attire: Lea Ann Belter from Maddison Row