From the Heart

Christina Edwards & Matthew Johnson October 21, 2023 / Post House Inn Christina Edwards and Matthew Johnson connected on a dating app when Christina was “looking for someone who can hold their own at family game night,” specifically dominoes. Challenge accepted, though no games were played during their first date sharing beers at Holy City Brewing; they talked and laughed for hours. Eighteen months later, Matthew proposed during a re-creation of that first date, and thus their wedding tagline became, “It started with a beer.” As a New York event planner, Christina knew the ins and outs of planning a wedding and sought out her favorite vendors. Since the couple wanted an intimate, dinner-party vibe for their 60-person wedding, they selected Post House Inn in Mount Pleasant for its cozy, coastal ambiance and set about curating a beautiful event full of heartwarming personal touches. For the courtyard ceremony, rows of amber Chiavari chairs and Technicolor blooms coordinated well under the striking red and white awning. Cocktail hour featured passed hors d’oeuvres and a raw bar, while the reception tables were awash with jewel-toned colors and mismatched goblets. Their wedding cake was simple and classic, while the groom’s hummingbird cake came in the shape of a cooler with odes to some of his favorite things. But it was the personal mementos that proved to be the most memorable, including the individual handwritten letters that awaited each guest at their place setting. The couple presented sentimental gifts to parents, incorporated a memorial area to recognize lost loved ones, and gave custom candles as their wedding favors to create a core memory associated with their joyful wedding day, which was filled with love and laughter. Top Tips • Choose your vendors wisely. Spend time picking out your vendors, since they will be the people executing your big day vision. Take time to get to know them and what they stand for. “Find vendors that align with your and your partner’s values, and you’ll love the results,” says Christina. • Keep it tight. If you’re considering a small invite list, the pros include more quality time with your guests. Over the weekend, the Johnsons had a rehearsal lunch, welcome party, wedding, and a departure brunch with 64 of their nearest and dearest, allowing time to really connect with each and every person. • Create a core memory. The Johnsons created their own custom scent at Candlefish, which they used at the wedding and for their wedding favors, since scent presents a sensory experience known to trigger memories. Vendors Planning & Design: Experience Holy City Venue & Catering: Post House Inn Photography: Kailee DiMeglio Photography Florals: Roadside Blooms Stationery & Signage: Kate Eliza Creative, Studio R (custom watercolor) Cake: ABCD Cake Design Rentals: Snyder Events Linens: Stradley Davidson Entertainment: Other Brother Entertainment Videography: Haley Sirisky Videography Wedding Day Aide: Cacky’s Bride + Aid Bridal Attire: White on Daniel Island (boutique), Anne Barge (gown) Beauty: Lashes & Lace