Nestled away in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina, this wedding inspiration shoot unfolded with timeless romance and southern charm. Against the iconic historic estate of the William Aiken House, the day was full of whimsical details, fresh blooms and a sense of intimacy that’s truly one of a kind. Captured by New Jersey-based luxury wedding photographer Michelle Behre, every moment highlighted the architectural grandeur, rich details, and artistry woven throughout the entirety of this Charleston wedding.
The Venue
The William Aiken House, a captivating 1807 mansion, seamlessly marries 19th-century charm with contemporary sophistication. Named South Carolina’s premier wedding venue by Martha Stewart Weddings and Brides magazine, the estate features manicured gardens anchored by a two-hundred-year-old magnolia tree, sun-drenched courtyards, and grand ballrooms adorned with museum-quality artwork and antique furnishings, creating a moment of timeless romance and refined luxury.
The Details
Capturing an iconic love story in Charleston, this wedding was infused with a deep sense of style and emotion. Thoughtful design created an unforgettable experience, with the overall vision brought to life through elevated style. Design elements complemented the venue’s historic architecture, offering layered textures and tones that echoed the Southern charm of the William Aiken House.
Florals became an organic masterpiece, thoughtfully dispersed throughout. David Austin’s Sweet Juliet roses, lush antique hydrangeas, and foraged elements, including chocolate, Queen Anne’s lace, trailing jasmine, and Fuyu persimmon branches, created rich arrangements that stood out as their own centerpiece.
The Invitation Suite
Every Little Something created a custom invitation suite set the tone for this Charleston wedding. Every element, hand-curated with artisanal precision, felt deeply personal and bespoke to the elegance of William House House.
The Bridal Fashion
The radiant bride Giavanna provided two distinct looks that were a balance of romance and timeless beauty. Soft, feminine lines and ethereal elegance defined the ceremony gown, while modern sophistication carried through to the reception, together capturing the timeless yet contemporary spirit of today’s fashion-forward luxury bride.
Nothing speaks to timeless elegance quite like fine estate jewelry. The bride was dressed in historic diamond and pearl pieces, beginning with a 20th-century Old European cut diamond set in 18K yellow gold and freshwater pearls. She then transitioned into an estate platinum emerald-cut diamond ring. From coronet-prong solitaires to diamond drops, each heirloom piece told a story of legacy and enduring beauty.
The Sweet Treat
A showpiece as much as a dessert, the cake was a true work of art. Using her signature buttercream sculpting technique and a refined color palette, Miri Nadler crafted a four-tiered masterpiece inspired by Charleston’s natural landscape and Gilded Age elegance. From palmetto-inspired lilies of the valley to coastal stripes and Art Deco textures, every detail was a poetic tribute to place and history of visual excellence.
From its storied architecture to its artfully-layered details, this Charleston wedding is an ode to Southern charm, modern elegance, and timeless romance. Every element worked to tell a story and inspire brides to come.
Now dreaming of your own Charleston wedding?! For more inspiration, check out A Rose Colored Southern Wedding in Charleston!
