Written By Melissa Reardon
Photographs By Lucy Cuneo
A transplant from Virginia, Weston “Wes” McAfee vividly remembers the first time he saw his future bride-to-be. Charleston native Dana Elaine...
When Rheney Mitchell was little, she used to tell her mother that she’d get married in a field of sunflowers when she grew up. So it’s little surprise that after she and her boyfriend of four years, Jacob Dearstyne, got engaged over dessert at Cypress, the Atlanta residents (and one-time Charlestonians) jumped into planning an October 10, 2009 wedding beset with the blooms. While they skipped the (sunflower) field trip, Rheney, Jacob, and their families did aim for a “fall county fair” ambiance, says Rheney, one resplendent with autumnal colors like brown, yellow, and orange. The down-to-earth DIY couple, who ended up spending $17,000 on the ceremony and celebration at Boone Hall’s Cotton Dock, readily admit that they couldn’t have pulled it all off without the talents and generosity of many: a neighbor created the invitations; Rheney’s maid of honor arranged the bouquets and boutonnieres; their wedding director made and monogrammed the burlap aisle runner; family friends lent furniture (and hands); pal Dan Wenz of The Griffon pitched in with barkeeping duties; and Rheney’s aunt even planted violets in her collection of vintage tea cups and donated the potted plants as favors. “It was overwhelming how much help and support we had,” says Rheney.
Bridal Gown: Custom-made by Nick's Tailoring, (803) 256-4722
Bridesmaids' Dresses: J. Crew
Caterer: Cru Caterer
Cupcakes: Dolcé Bakery
Flowers: Wholesale flowers purchased from Busy B’s Florist, (843) 556-3141
Groom's Suit: Joseph & Feiss from Men's Wearhouse
Groomsmen's Suit: Joseph & Feiss from Men's Wearhouse
Linens: Snyder Party Rentals
Location: Boone Hall Plantation
Photographer: Karyn Iserman
