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Jillian Taylor Lowman & David Cranford June 1, 2024 • Old Wide Awake It seems impossible for Taylor Lowman and David Cranford to pinpoint precisely when and where they met. The Columbia, South Carolina, natives always shared friends growing up but were never officially introduced. They also shared a love of music and a passion for traveling across the country to catch live shows of their favorite artists. For some time, David was simply “that guy I see everywhere I go,” Taylor laughs. But it wouldn’t always be that way. After college, the two developed a friendship that eventually blossomed into love. Flash-forward six years, with David heading to Paris on a work trip and Taylor tagging along. Having invited herself, she never expected that David had the surprise of a lifetime in store. While touring the catacombs of Paris, the couple stopped in front of skulls arranged in the shape of a heart, and David dropped to one knee. Deep beneath the City of Light, the perfectly quirky proposal took Taylor’s breath away. For their big day, the couple set their sights on the Lowcountry. The area is dear to them, with Taylor’s family owning a beach house on Edisto Island and the duo having enjoyed many visits over the years. They found their dream venue in Old Wide Awake, a circa-1800 property in Hollywood along the Stono River with stately oaks and grand wraparound porches. Plus, the venue’s in-house manager would make event coordination a snap—especially when paired with the planning prowess of Meagan Warren. All told, it became a dream scenario for the decidedly hands-off bride. In early planning conversations, Taylor cast a vision of a bright and fun spring porch party then let Meagan take it from there. Taylor’s love of chartreuse inspired a citrus color palette, while whimsical design details like disco balls and Technicolor straws for sipping spritzes infused even more vibrancy into the historic setting. Add in the couple’s favorite tunes, and it was the perfect backdrop for convening loved ones who hadn’t seen one another in ages. Or, as Taylor put it, “getting the band back together.” Vendors Planning & Design: Meagan Warren Weddings Photography: Catherine Ann Photography Florals: Festoon Charleston Catering & Bar: Southern Way Cake: The Cake Stand Rentals: Snyder Events Linens: BBJ La Tavola Stationery & Signage: Viri Lovely Designs Entertainment: Palmetto Strings (ceremony), The Midnight City Band (reception) Bridal Attire: Renhue (gown), Lovely Bride (boutique) Beauty: Lashes and Lace Groom’s Attire: Brittons of Columbia Bridesmaids’ Attire: Jenny Yoo (dresses), Bella Bridesmaids (boutique)