The Golden Hour

Chelsea Koontz & Tanner Swayne January 16, 2021 / Cathedral of St. John the Baptist & Lowndes Grove Just a few hours before sunset in mid-winter, Charleston takes on a certain golden glow, unparalleled at any other time of the year. When Chelsea began to envision her wedding to Taylor, she pictured it in this light. “More than anything, I wanted that spectacular lighting incorporated into our Big Day,” she says. It was the perfect ambiance for their sweet love story, which started in high school and reignited eight years later when they ran into each other by chance. So while the couple got married “under the stars” on the vaulted ceiling of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, their sit-down dinner reception at Lowndes Grove took place at the golden hour, when the waterfront (and the bride) was radiant. Simple string lights, a gold chandelier above the dance floor, and white tablecloths with a shiny, sheer speckled texture—everything about the evening sparkled. Elegant touches of black and marble accents infused the setting with modern glamour. Charleston’s sunset glow worked it’s magic, but it was the radiant faces of the happy couple that really made the event shine. Top Tips 1. Embrace your season. Chelsea and Tanner ran with the winter white theme and glammed it up with gold and sleek black for a stunning winter soirée. 2. Don’t forget those who matter most. When it comes to small details, lean into your families and friends who can make those pieces unique. Chelsea’s aunt painted a portrait of the church where their ceremony was held. After having it matted, guests signed the white space in lieu of a traditional guest book. 3. Music matters. On this cold January day, the cocktail hour was forced inside, and the entertainment had to pivot quickly. Charleston native and classically trained violinist Seth G. pulled the job off with ease and to great applause from attendees. Vendors Planning, design: Hill & Co. Creative Images: Virgil Bunao Catering: Patrick Properties Hospitality Group Florals: Stephanie Gibbs Events Stationery, calligraphy, signage: SAS-E Ink Paper & Press Rentals: Ooh! Events Draping: The Social Spool Linens: Nüage Designs Bride’s attire: custom design by Jodi Moylan, White on Daniel Island Jewelry: Croghan’s Jewel Box (pearl necklace), David Yurman (earrings), R&R Jewelers (rings) Beauty: Azure Salon Studios (hair), Stefanie Sudduth (makeup) Entertainment: Ear for Music (cocktail hour),Atlanta Rhythm & Groove (reception) Videographer: Adam Siegel