Not that I’ve been there but from everything I’ve seen and heard, Charleston seems like one of the most romantic towns in the United States. And that’s in part due to its incredible history. This shoot dreamt up by LINDSAY BISHOP EVENTS pays homage to this esteemed past and tells the story of two history buffs tying the knot in one of the most historical buildings in the state, THE OLD EXCHANGE. Charleston Wedding Photographer CLAY AUSTIN captured these beautiful images which also feature gowns from the incredible wedding gown designer EMILY KOTARSKI.
Lindsay shares with us, “One of the first things that I ask brides when we start talking about their wedding is “Why Charleston?” They all seem to have the same answer; the romance, the beauty… there is something magical about this city that you just can’t quite put your finger on. I think that a lot of this magic comes from the historical significance of Charleston, the stories that so many homes and buildings hold and are just waiting to tell.
The OLD EXCHANGE building has played a role in Charleston’s history from the time that construction began in 1771 all the way through its role as a USO facility in WWII. But I think that the most special story about the Old Exchange took place in 1791. After being elected President, George Washington decided to visit every state in the country, in order to become better acquainted with them. During his Southern Tour, he spent a week in Charleston, which was the richest city in the South at that time. Every night during his stay, a party was thrown in his honour. Four of these lavish events, including a ball and a concert, were held at the Old Exchange Building. The President danced with over 250 ladies at the ball, and, when he arrived at his next stop in Savannah, Georgia, he had to replace his dancing shoes, as he had worn them out in Charleston!
It was important to me to honour the great history of this place. We did so by taking cues from the period, and bringing them up to date in a way that would represent a modern couple. EMILY KOTARSKI BRIDAL designed a custom gown whose silhouette and lace gave a nod to the Victorian era, with a distinctive skirt that created the perfect mix of vintage and current style.
One of my favourite details was the detailed antique silver punch bowl from GRYPHONE ESTATE SILVER. We used the bowl to highlight a historic punch recipe unique to Charleston, made of tea, peach brandy, rum, sugar, lemon juice, and lemons. This recipe just happens to make an appearance on the menu of one of the most prestigious restaurants in Charleston, and would make a delicious and unique signature cocktail!
The architecture within the OLD EXCHANGE is so special that it was important to me that we work to highlight and complement it, which led to the blue and white colour palette. The moment that I saw the stunning toile linen from NUAGE DESIGNS, I instantly knew that it would be the perfect statement piece! The rest of the table setting remained simple and classic, with antique silver pieces, beautiful monogrammed china, and a centerpiece of hydrangea and hellebores, in order to allow the lovely pattern to shine! A hand-tied bouquet of roses and gardenias gave a nod to the oversized white bouquets of the late 1800s.”
We’re obsessed with the beautiful details of these gowns from Charleston bridal designer EMILY KOTARSKI. You can see more of her portfolio in our VENDOR GUIDE and view her stunning latest bridal collection here. 
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Thank you to Charleston Wedding Photographer CLAY AUSTIN for these beautiful images. Be sure to check out this beautiful wedding inspiration he captured too.
