One of our favorite parts of being in the wedding planning industry is learning about our bride and groom’s story on how they met, where they fell in love, and their dreams for the future. We love them so much that we want to start sharing these magical stories with you!
Kaley & Pete’s upcoming fall wedding at Magnolia Plantation is sure to be picturesque, romantic, and memorable. We cannot be more excited to be apart of making their visions of tying the knot a reality. We chatted with Kaley and got some insight on how their love story unfolded, why they chose Charleston, and so much more!
Pete pops the big question.
How did you two meet?
We met a few years ago when Pete was living with a mutual friend. We were both dating other people at the time but were always friends and one day, the timing finally worked out and we had our first date on Halloween night of 2015. After that first night, we were inseparable.
How did Pete pop the question?
Our engagement was an elaborate scavenger hunt around downtown Orlando, at places that were significant to our relationship, like the place where he asked me to be his girlfriend. My sister and best friends were stationed at each location to give me my next clues. My final clue led me to a garden where we often took our dog Scout for walks. Pete (and Scout) were waiting for me inside the gardens and the rest is history. Right after I said “yes!” He led me around the corner to another surprise of all of our family and friends waiting with champagne to celebrate. We all went back to our place and had a giant pool party to keep the fun going.
What made you decide on getting married in Charleston?
As soon as we got engaged we decided we wanted some kind of destination wedding. We had both been to Charleston numerous times and absolutely loved it. It was an easy pick for us! Beautiful scenery, awesome restaurants and fun bars. What more could we need?!
How did you narrow your focus on venue spaces?
Once we decided on Charleston, we knew we wanted to get married somewhere with beautiful outdoor spaces. We started doing some research and found Magnolia Plantation. As soon as we saw it, we knew it was the one. Pete’s younger brother Chris was actually a wedding planner in Charleston a few years ago. He still had contact with a some of the other planners there and put us in touch with Chelsye, who is one of his good friends. We had a quick phone call and felt good about it but then completely fell in love with her when we met her in person for the first time at Magnolia. Chelsye has been such a godsend since day one of the planning process. She is so easy going, enthusiastic and makes the planning process easy and fun. We adore her.
What are your dreams for your big day?
Pete and I actually agree on the most important aspect of our wedding- Fun! We want a beautiful night of dancing, eating and celebrating our love with our closest family and friends. Honestly though we have agreed on almost everything thus far with the planning- Either that or he just lets me run the show and goes along with it 😉
Where do you see yourselves after tying the knot?
After the wedding we will still be living in Orlando, hopefully in a house that we will be shopping for in the next few months. We will be honeymooning in summer 2019, either in Thailand or Switzerland most likely. TBD!
Kaley + Pete.
Most Romantic Proposal Sites in Charleston
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With proposal season in full swing, choosing a meaningful location to propose is essential for making the moment unforgettable. Home to romantic plantations and waterfront landscapes, Charleston, SC, has infinite locations to pop the question. We have narrowed down some of the best spots for you to highlight the start of a lifetime of love and happiness.
Botany Bay, Edisto Island
With the beautiful hues of sunset skies reflecting in the ocean, this secluded waterfront location is unlike no other.
Angel Oak Tree
Proposing in front of this astonishing, 1,5000-year-old ancient tree would be a perfect symbol of the eternity for your marriage.
Pineapple Fountain
A quintessential symbol of Charleston, this charming spot paired with a proposal will be a dream.
Magnolia Plantation Garden Bridge
Surrounded by gorgeous blooming flowers and winsome Oaks, proposing here will feel like your in a movie.
White Point Garden Gazebo
Enveloped in oak trees, this classic location combines both waterfront views and a plantation-like atmosphere.
Folly Beach Pier
An exemplary place for ocean lovers, this pier will undoubtedly be coupled with a stunning, panoramic ocean view.
Rooftop Bar at Vendue
One of the best rooftops in Charleston, the 360 degree view of the historic skyline, along with craft cocktails, makes for the unparalleled proposal.
Wild Dunes Resort
Propose and celebrate your special day at this luxury resort and private soft, white sand beaches.
Chasing After Charleston’s Adventures
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THE GEMS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY
With the ever-growing popularity of the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina, visitors are certainly greeted by boundless opportunities to explore during their time in the Lowcountry. From the enchanting Oak tree lined driveways to the historical cobble stone streets, the city’s remarkable ambience is sure to leave its guests dreaming of their next visit. To ensure that your trip, regardless of the occasion, exceeds all your expectations, read about some of our favorite activities and locations below!
Tour the Timeless Plantations
Step back into the past and uncover the plantation’s operations and elite family histories created on these historical grounds. Discover where the scenes captured in the famous romance movie The Notebook were held at the picturesque Boone Hall Plantation, wander throughout the mystical gardens (best in the springtime) at Magnolia Plantation, or pose for a photo in front of the breathtaking 1,000-year-old Oak tree at Middleton Plantation.
Lined with exquisite wrought iron gates and majestic private gardens, there is no wonder why locals consider this to be one of the most beautiful streets in Charleston. The Preservation Society has displayed informational plaques outside these grand houses that chronicles the events and people that once filled these homes with life. Reminisce in the rich history of this noteworthy street.
Located on East Bay Street, this bold line of vibrantly hued, stucco houses captivate the artistic essence of the city to perfection. From spiraling shrubbery to colorful hanging flower baskets, the abundance of character each house displays will certainly make for an ideal photo opportunity.
Known for its spacious white sands and beautiful dune grasses, this beach displays a remarkable sunset show every night. Station 11 offers a direct view of downtown and the Ravenel Bridge, allowing for the city lights to compliment the soft, sweeping colors in the night sky. Lay out a blanket or walk the beach, we are sure you’ll be mesmerized by Charleston’s natural beauty.
Offering both BYOB workshops and unique shopping, Candlefish allows you to explore your creativity through concocting your own candle scents. The serene atmosphere and modern decor makes for the perfect place to unwind and be innovative. Stop by and create custom gifts for family and friends that will fill their homes with the fragrances of Charleston.
There is no better way to combine waterfront dining, the Charleston sunsets, and live entertainment than climbing aboard the Spirit of Carolina. The staff of Spiritline Cruises bestows upon the guests’ exceptional hospitality while serving a traditional, southern inspired meal sure to satisfy any food connoisseur. Indulge in a romantic and tranquil evening you’ll never forget.
A quaint and scenic area, Shem Creek is home to incredible seafood restaurants, shrimping boats, and winding boardwalks extending out to the Charleston Harbor. Get up close and personal with the spectacular wildlife Shem Creek shelters with one of Coastal Expedition’s thrilling adventures. With a wide range of kayak tours, SUP rentals, and boat tours, it is likely that a dolphin may swim by to say hello during your outdoor experience.
This remarkable structure acts as the most stunning artery that links downtown to some of Charleston’s surrounding islands. Runners, bikers, and walkers alike can traverse along this scenic 2.7-mile-long overpass at their leisure. Capture panoramic views of downtown, the USS Yorktown, Fort Sumter, and even dolphins frolicking in the astonishing Charleston Harbor.
Witness Strand Feeding
Charleston is one of the few locations in the world in which Bottlenose dolphins utilize their echolocation and group work techniques to perform this astounding feat of strand feeding. Take a trip out to the pristine and lively beaches of Seabrook and Kiawah Island to see this spectacular event unfold before you.
