Austen and Chandler tied the knot in the historic and charming town of Beaufort, South Carolina, in a celebration captured by OTTO PHOTOGRAPHY that beautifully blended timeless tradition with coastal elegance. From a meaningful church ceremony in the heart of downtown to a lively waterfront reception at DATAW ISLAND, the entire weekend felt like a heartfelt tribute to their story—from the place they first met at Clemson to the bride’s beloved hometown.
Their love story started in 2016 during their sophomore year at Clemson University (go Tigers!). Austen needed a date for a sorority function and was set up with Chandler by a mutual friend. That one night of dancing, laughter, and shared secrets turned into the beginning of a beautiful relationship.
The proposal came full circle in November 2023 when Chandler took her back to Clemson under the guise of visiting a military memorial. Instead, he got down on one knee in front of the Cooper Library—the very place they met—before whisking her away to a surprise engagement party surrounded by loved ones.
The Ceremony at First African Baptist Church
Working with wedding planner MURPHY WEDDINGS, the ceremony took place at the historic First African Baptist Church in downtown Beaufort. The bride described the sanctuary as “stunning” and deeply meaningful, a perfect fit for the heartfelt and faith-filled ceremony they envisioned. Bells rang out as guests arrived, and the bridal party walked down the aisle to “Amazing Grace” and “Hallelujah.” The bride’s entrance to “Canon in D” marked a moment of pure joy. Chandler’s first words afterward summed it up: “That was so fun!”
Surrounded by my friends and family, and getting ready with my bridesmaids in the place where I grew up was always a dream of mine.
We did our first look at my parents house. Getting to see my husband for the first time on the same porch where I took my first steps was so surreal, sweet, and special to me.
A Sentimental First Look
Austen always dreamed of getting ready at her parents’ home, and the first look took place on the very porch where she took her first steps. There, they exchanged letters, shared a quiet moment together, and prayed over the day ahead. It was a moment of calm and reflection that set the tone for everything that followed.
Timeless Fashion with Coastal Touches
The bridal party embraced a soft, elegant palette. Bridesmaids wore off-white dresses in styles of their choice, while junior bridesmaids added a pop of sky blue to reflect the Lowcountry’s coastal hues. The groomsmen and Chandler wore black tuxedos and Brackish feather bowties, adding a Southern flair. The bride chose a timeless satin fit-and-flare gown with a dramatic train and borrowed a cathedral-length veil from her best friend, her favorite piece for photos and the aisle.
Florals Inspired by the Lowcountry
With help from her mom and florist Sally Hendrix, the floral vision came to life in soft whites, greens, and blues—tones that reflected the natural marshes and coastal charm of Beaufort. Each arrangement was a nod to the beauty of the region and the couple’s family roots.
The Reception: Marsh Views & Dance Floor Magic
The party continued on DATAW ISLAND at the elegant waterfront clubhouse, framed by sunset views and golden marsh grasses. One of the couple’s favorite moments was sneaking away for sunset portraits by the water—a quiet moment in the midst of celebration. Deas Guyz, a local favorite, kept the dance floor packed all night with their upbeat energy and soulful sound.
Cocktail Hour Favorites
Guests enjoyed a relaxed cocktail hour with a pianist playing familiar favorites, beer, wine, and a signature cocktail. Hors d’oeuvres included beef crostini, crab cakes, and caprese skewers. It was a great opportunity to catch up with guests and ease into the celebration.
I wanted the day to feel happy and genuine, focusing on the sacrament of marriage and marrying my best friend. I wanted our love for each other and our family and friends to be evident in every detail of the day.
Focused on Family, Faith & Fun
Throughout the day, the couple made space for special, intimate moments with the people who mattered most. Their goal was to make the day feel genuine, joyful, and rooted in their love for one another. They wanted it to be evident that the day wasn’t just about a beautiful wedding—it was about the beginning of a shared life, filled with family, faith, and celebration.
The Perfect Beginning in Jamaica
After the wedding weekend, the newlyweds headed to Jamaica for their honeymoon, where they soaked up sunshine, explored the island, and toasted the start of married life. It was the perfect end to a wedding that celebrated everything meaningful: where they came from, what they value, and who they love.
