On a beautiful spring day in Charleston, Julia and Chris celebrated their wedding surrounded by love, color, and heartfelt intention. From a sweet college meeting to a joyful send-off with Greek and Italian flags, every detail of their day reflected thoughtfulness, charm, and an unwavering connection to family and heritage. Captured by the talented ALEX THORNTON, their wedding at THE GADSDEN HOUSE was a celebration of love, legacy, and springtime joy.
Julia, from Mt. Pleasant, SC, and Chris, from Raleigh, NC, met in a marketing class at Washington & Lee University in 2018. Though they had mutual friends, their paths hadn’t crossed until Julia passed Chris the attendance sheet across the aisle. Chris, already intrigued, texted Julia a midterm question he already knew the answer to—just to spark a conversation. That simple message started a relationship that has grown stronger every day since.
The proposal
Chris proposed to Julia on their fourth anniversary at Hobcaw Yacht Club, the boat landing in her parents’ neighborhood where she had played since childhood. It was a meaningful and emotional proposal, made even more special by the surprise presence of both their families. The location came full circle, as they later hosted their rehearsal dinner at the club. Julia’s ring, an oval diamond they designed together with jeweler ANNA P. JAY, was complemented by engraved wedding bands and aquamarine studs, a nod to Chris’s birthstone.
Chris was waiting for me at the bottom of the staircase in The Gadsden House and seeing each other for the first time that day, it really hit us that we were about to marry the love of our lives!
The Venue
The couple chose THE GADSDEN HOUSE for their reception, a historic Charleston home built in the 1700s. Its Southern charm, two-story porches, and courtyard made it an easy favorite. The team at KING STREET HOSPITALITY GROUP provided exceptional service, in-house catering, and bar, which guests raved about throughout the evening.
GETTING READY
Julia spent the morning in the elegant bridal suite with her bridesmaids and mothers, enjoying hair and makeup by CARRIE M and a relaxing start to the day. Meanwhile, Chris and his groomsmen had brunch on Shem Creek before getting ready in the groom’s quarters. Despite some nervous butterflies, both were filled with anticipation.
FIRST LOOK & PRIVATE VOWS
The couple opted for a first look at the bottom of The Gadsden House’s staircase, where they shared private handwritten vows. This moment allowed them to ground themselves emotionally and be fully present for the rest of the day. Julia also shared an emotional first look with her father and brother—a touching highlight.
As our florals reflected so well, we wanted our day to feel joyful, bright, and happy, as well as intentional and thoughtful.
THE FASHION
Julia wore a romantic satin A-line gown by JUSTIN ALEXANDER Signature, adorned with laser-cut floral appliqués and detachable straps. She later changed into a HILL HOUSE HOME mini dress with green and coral floral details. Bridesmaids wore mix-and-match green floral dresses from REFORMATION and CARA CARA, while Chris and the groomsmen donned classic tuxedos from JOS.A.BANK.
FLORALS
Flowers were central to the wedding design. Kwan of BLISS IN BLOOM crafted arrangements full of color and meaning. Julia’s bouquet included her favorite ranunculus, along with sentimental touches: daisies for her late grandmother and lily of the valley for Chris’s. At the venue, flowers adorned tables, mantles, and the staircase with cheerful hues and whimsical delphinium meadows.
The Ceremony
Originally planned at Julia’s childhood church, the ceremony was moved to First Baptist Church of Charleston due to unforeseen repairs. The new location brought its own charm, with their original pastor officiating and guests treated to violin and organ music. A highlight moment came when their flower girl playfully tossed petals at Julia and her dad—lightening the mood and eliciting laughter.
A highlight moment came when their flower girl playfully tossed petals at Julia and her dad—lightening the mood and eliciting laughter.
COCKTAIL HOUR & RECEPTION
Guests were welcomed to The Gadsden House with champagne coupes, hors d’oeuvres, and signature cocktails named after family pets and their alma mater. Julia and Chris entered with their wedding party into their first dance to Maggie Rogers’ “Love You For a Long Time.”
CHARLESTON GROOVE FACTORY kept the dance floor packed all evening with a lively mix of live band and DJ sets. Special moments included a surprise dance with Julia’s grandfather, a Greek family dance, and a heartfelt thank-you toast.
As a nod to their families and honeymoon destinations, guests waved Greek and Italian flags during their exit. The couple also gave out sugar cookies decorated by Julia’s aunt as sweet take-home favors.
THE HONEYMOON
One month after the wedding, Julia and Chris jetted off to Greece and Italy for a dreamy two-week honeymoon. Highlights included the blue waters of Milos, sunsets in Santorini, and a cooking class in Rome. It was the perfect way to begin their new chapter together.
From meaningful traditions to joyful dancing, Julia and Chris’s Charleston wedding was a reflection of their love story—deeply personal, beautifully designed, and captured with warmth and artistry by ALEX THORNTON.
THE PHOTOGRAPHER SAYS…
“Julia & Chris’ wedding day was the epitome of Spring in Charleston: stunning and lush bouquets, floral-patterned bridesmaid dresses, warm sunshine, and happy people. The most memorable parts of the day for me were the first looks, which Julia had with her dad, her brother, and of course, her husband-to-be. All three men cried, which left everyone watching (including me!) in tears. Julia is absolutely gorgeous inside and out, so Julia as a bride on her wedding day left everyone in awe of just how stunning she is. The ceremony and vows were heartfelt and genuine, just like the couple. The toasts were beautiful and the dance floor was on fire. I loved capturing this day!” ALEX THORNTON
