Color Galore

Erin Taylor & Thomas Ross

June 26, 2021 / Kiawah River

If Erin Taylor and Thomas Ross had a theme song for their origin story, surely it would be that Dr. John tune about being in the right place at the wrong time. The couple met during college at North Carolina State and dated for a stint, but it was at least 12 years later before they reconnected on Facebook and eventually rekindled their love interest. Erin would make regular trips from her hometown of Chattanooga to visit Thomas in Raleigh, where they currently live. They took another five years to grow the relationship before Thomas surprised Erin with a proposal—perfectly planned in a park under the guise of needing pro photos for grandma. The couple chose Charleston for their wedding location, since Erin’s parents live here, and handed over the design reins to Haley Kelly Events. Erin’s desire for lots of color was realized in the fabulous floral installations, which graced elegant umbrellaed tables and myriad chandeliers. Subtle design elements like custom pillows and a neutral backdrop really let the colors shine. The couple’s personality came through as well, including in the caricature-esque custom cake topper that even featured their pup. And because their wedding landed during last summer’s pandemic lull, their union proved to be the right place and the right time.

Top Tips

• Rethink draping. Planner Haley Kelly wanted to be sure the top of the tent matched the colorful nature inside the tent.She went for a mix of champagne tones to tie in the gold chandeliers and pinks to honor the florals.

• Customize your pillows. Haley had custom pillows made using the pattern from the envelope liner on the invite, and the couple got to take home the accent pieces to always remember their big day.

• Mix up your seating. Haley loves a mix of lounge seating, cafe tables, pub tables, and regular dining tables for guests to enjoy their dinner. “It creates a relaxed environment where guests feel comfortable mixing and mingling the entire night,” she says.

Vendors

Planning, design: Haley Kelly Events

Venue: Kiawah River

Images: Chris Isham

Florals: The Bearded Florist

Catering: Cru Catering (reception, bar); Seed Food Catering (brunch)

Cake: Flowerchild

Paper, calligraphy: Jill Delavan

Beauty: The Pink House

Officiant: Rich Harley

Entertainment: Bob Williams (ceremony, cocktail hour); Charleston Groove (reception)

Rentals: Ooh! Events, Snyder, Stradley Davidson

Lighting: Technical Event Company

Draping: Veil

Transportation: Lowcountry Valet