Season of Love

For Blair Gottfried and Brian Church, finding love in their mid-thirties led to a whirlwind romance during which time seemed to stand still. “On our first date, we talked for more than three hours, had one beer, forgot to order food, then realized that it was 10 o’clock,” laughs Blair, who made plans with Brian again the very next day. Their courtship progressed quickly, and two years later, Brian surprised Blair with a proposal during a trip to Portugal.

In planning their January nuptials at The Charleston Place, the Lowcountry residents envisioned a black-tie winter celebration that felt inviting rather than stuffy. The pair appreciated being able to hold the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception in a single location but wanted each part of the evening to feel distinct yet cohesive. So, they hired the floral and event pros at Gathering to help with the cozy design, which embraced a rich emerald and gold color scheme, velvet linens, moody candlelight, and textural florals.

Thoughtfully incorporated touches also played into the wedding’s intimate atmosphere. Brian had the words la vie en rose sewn into his tux, a reminder of a special song from early in their relationship. Custom dessert counters gave a nod to the Viennese tables the bride remembered seeing at family weddings as a girl. At the ceremony, a close friend officiated alongside the rabbi, and Blair donned a family heirloom wedding band that Brian “bought” for the occasion from her aunt for one dollar—a sentimental gesture that became a priceless detail in a day worth waiting for.