Captured beautifully by SAMANTHA BROOKE, Emily and Tanner’s wedding at LEGARE WARING HOUSE felt like the natural continuation of a love story decades in the making. Thoughtfully planned by PERFECT PEONY EVENTS, the day unfolded with an ease and intentionality that reflected both the couple’s shared history and their vision for a timeless, joy-filled celebration. Having met in sixth grade and grown up side by side, their relationship has weathered long distance, college years, and cross-country moves — a depth of connection that was quietly present in every moment.
Choosing a Timeless Charleston Setting
Set beneath the iconic Avenue of Oaks, LEGARE WARING HOUSE had long lived on Emily’s Pinterest board, but seeing it in person sealed the decision instantly. The sweeping oak trees draped in Spanish moss created an atmosphere that felt both grand and intimate, romantic yet grounded. Even as storms rolled through Charleston on the day itself, the venue’s natural beauty only became more enchanting, lending the celebration a cinematic, almost ethereal quality.
The sweeping oak trees draped in Spanish moss created an atmosphere that felt both grand and intimate, romantic yet grounded.
A Morning Surrounded by Loved Ones
Emily’s morning began exactly how she had hoped — surrounded by her closest friends and family. The group gathered at the venue for breakfast, coffee, and mimosas before getting ready together, sharing laughter and catching up as anticipation built. Despite the persistent rain, the atmosphere remained light and joyful, thanks to a flexible and supportive vendor team that ensured the day unfolded smoothly and with ease.
Despite the persistent rain, the atmosphere remained light and joyful, thanks to a flexible and supportive vendor team that ensured the day unfolded smoothly and with ease.
A Private First Look and Shared Vows
Choosing to do a first look gave Emily and Tanner a moment of calm amid the excitement. Seeing one another before the ceremony helped steady their nerves, offering space to reconnect before the celebrations began. During this quiet window, they also chose to read their vows privately — a deeply meaningful decision that allowed the weight of the moment to settle in. It was here, in stillness and sincerity, that the reality of finally becoming husband and wife truly set in.
Classic Fashion and Soft Florals
The couple’s vision of timeless elegance came through beautifully in their styling choices. The men wore classic black tuxes, while the bridesmaids’ champagne-toned dresses added a soft warmth against the lush green surroundings. Florals by THE FLOWER COTTAGE echoed that romantic palette, blending cream and blush blooms with natural greenery. The result was a look that felt refined yet effortless, perfectly suited to the historic outdoor setting.
A Ceremony Beneath the Oaks
As luck would have it, the rain softened just in time for the ceremony, allowing Emily and Tanner to exchange vows beneath the Avenue of Oaks. Light rain continued to fall, but rather than detracting from the moment, it added a layer of magic. Surrounded by siblings and close friends, the ceremony felt intimate and heartfelt — proof that sometimes the most beautiful moments come when plans unfold a little differently than expected.
An Evening of Celebration
Cocktail hour offered guests a chance to reconnect and celebrate, complete with thoughtfully prepared bites, flowing drinks, and live music that set the tone for the evening ahead. As the night continued, the reception became a true reflection of Emily and Tanner’s hopes: a joyful gathering where laughter, dancing, and heartfelt speeches filled the space. From emotional toasts to late-night sliders and fries, every detail was designed to keep guests comfortable, well-fed, and fully immersed in the celebration.
Ending on a High Note
Despite the rain, the energy never wavered. Guests danced late into the night, enjoying bundt cakes, music, and one another’s company. Emily and Tanner ended their reception with a private last dance on the porch, followed by a joyful bubble send-off — a fitting close to a day that felt both timeless and deeply personal. Their Italian honeymoon, filled with food, exploration, and romance, marked the perfect beginning to their next chapter together.
