Over the Rainbow

Katherine Bishara & Tyler Vasas June 1, 2024 / Runnymede Four years of medical school—that’s how long it took for Katherine Bishara and Tyler Vasas to go from meet to marry. They began dating the first week of school, got engaged during a sunset proposal at his family’s lake house, and said “I do” two weeks after graduation, ahead of their residencies. Both grew up in Charleston, so hosting a Lowcountry wedding was an easy decision. From their chosen venue, Runnymede, they could even see across the Ashley River to Tyler’s childhood home. “It was a perfect full-circle moment,” says Katherine. To pull off their dream outdoor wedding bursting with color and flowers, the pair enlisted planner Chauncey Boykin of Bouquets & Bowties. “Every detail was built around this vision—bright, playful, and full of joy,” says Katherine. Floral designer Whitney Randall of Festoon played up the color with coral peonies, yellow and peach ranunculus, pink ‘Miss Piggy’ roses, and pale blue belladonna delphiniums. From the ceremony arch and aisle arrangements to the ladies’ bouquets and banquette centerpieces, vibrant florals set a cheerful tone. The blue hue of the bridesmaids’ gowns and reception stage backdrop also reflected the summer sky. “More than anything, we wanted our guests to celebrate with us in a way that wasn’t stuffy,” says the bride. And their reception delivered on the fun with over-the-top dances both planned and spontaneous, including an unforgettable “Proud Mary” moment. “As a dancer, I knew the choreography from Miss Congeniality, and I ended up performing the entire dance in sync with the band’s lead singer,” laughs Katherine. Personal touches were in order, as well. Custom illustrations of the couple’s cats graced their signature drink menu and cocktail napkins. And in lieu of traditional gifts and a guest book, friends and family members brought inscribed books to be displayed at the reception. With everything from classics to coffee table books among the offerings, the eclectic result is “a beautiful and sentimental collection we’ll cherish forever.” Top Tips • Embrace the season. Planner Chauncey Boykin leaned into June with both the aesthetic and accommodations. While they got lucky with an 80°F day, guests stayed cool thanks to shaded seating, seagrass hand fans, and an air-conditioned tent. • Rethink the guest book. Instead of a traditional guest book, the couple asked friends and family to bring a meaningful book with a note inside. “This allowed guests to put more thought into their messages,” says Boykin, and provided the newlyweds with a collection of reads tied to their special day and those they love most. • Connect early. “One of the best decisions I made was booking my vendors within the first month of our engagement,” says Katherine. “Even though we had a year and a half to plan, spacing things out kept me from feeling overwhelmed.” Vendors Planning & Design: Bouquets & Bowties Venue: Runnymede Photography: Kailee DiMeglio Photography Florals: Festoon Stationery & Signage: Minted Rentals & Linens: Snyder Lighting & Draping: Loluma Entertainment: Power 2 Party, Sam Hill Entertainment (reception) Bridal Attire: Justin Alexander (gown), Bridal House of Charleston (boutique) Beauty: Charleston Bridal Collab Bridesmaids’ Attire: Azazie Groom’s Attire: Men’s Wearhouse (tux), Brackish (tie)