Meant to Be

Hannah Summer & Ryan Shannon November 20, 2021 / Hibernian Hall Their mothers saw it before they did. Growing up in small town Lake Wylie, Hannah says that although she didn’t necessarily take notice of her future husband Ryan Shannon, her mother did, pointing out his wonderful qualities. Ryan’s mother noticed Hannah, too. But it wasn’t until a hike on Crowder Mountain years later that the two caught on: they were meant to be. After Ryan proposed at Seabrook Island, they were surrounded by family to toast them into their new life together. “Ryan and I fell in love in Charleston,” says Hannah, who is a College of Charleston alum. They chose First Baptist Church for the ceremony and Hibernian Hall for their reception for 250 guests. “We wanted a classical Lowcountry-style wedding, but not over the top,” says Hannah. That meant a menu of local favorites such as grilled shrimp skewers and chicken biscuits as late-night munchies. After a day full of happy tears, guests reveled with Finesse Band, an entertainment choice Hannah calls “one for the books,” adding that many guests commented that “it was the most fun wedding they had ever attended.” When all the elements came together, it was the day of a lifetime for a couple destined for each other. Tips • Think out of the box. Hannah’s custom gown by Antonio Gual incorporated the top of one dress and the bottom and fabric of another. Her veil combined lace that her 85-year-old grandmother removed from her mother’s custom wedding gown with a veil from Blanca Veils. • Wear comfortable shoes. It’s not worth your feet hurting all day, says Hannah. If you fall in love with an uncomfortable pair, use them for detail shots. • Wedding favors are often overlooked. Hannah made oyster-shell embellished blessing beads that were personalized with a poem by her mom. • Don’t save the top cake tier. Year-old frozen cake is not the best. Have your baker make you a fresh top tier on your first anniversary. Vendors Coordination: Grove Designs Venue: Hibernian Hall Photographer: Maggie Braucher Videographer: Haley Sirisky Florals: Branch Design Studio (ceremony), Fresh Weddings and Events (reception) Catering: Salt House Catering Stationery: Reaves Engraving Entertainment: Finesse Band Bridal attire: Antonio Gual Rentals: EventHaus, Snyder Bar Service: Snyder Linens: Nuage Designs Cake: ABC Cakes