Blakely and Jim’s Charleston wedding was the ultimate celebration of love, faith, and family — with a side of sweet tea, Italian dancing, and thousands of homemade cookies. After meeting through work at a medical device company and navigating a long-distance relationship before ever living in the same city, the couple knew exactly what they wanted for their wedding day: something timeless, joy-filled, and deeply personal. Blakely, a South Carolina native, and Jim, whose family hails from Pittsburgh with strong Italian roots, chose Charleston as the perfect meeting point of both worlds. With warm weather, incredible food, and undeniable Southern charm, the destination wedding at The Cedar Room planned by MOD Events Charleston and captured by Georgia and Micah gave out-of-town guests an experience while still feeling like home.
The pros of hiring a planner
Despite the scale of the celebration, the planning process felt surprisingly calm. With the help of their planner, Kala of MOD Events Charleston, and Blakely’s naturally Type A approach, decisions were made early and intentionally. The couple focused less on trends and more on creating a day that felt true to who they are and what they value most.
Featured designer: Galia Lahav
Blakely stunned in a dramatic Galia Lahav gown paired with polished glam by Galya Gornishka’s bridal beauty team.
Custom black-tie for the groom
Jim looked sharp in a custom tux from David Alan Clothing. Every fashion choice felt timeless and intentional, designed to stand the test of time.
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Ornate cathedral architecture
The ceremony took place at the breathtaking Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, where they let the ornate architecture speak for itself, followed by an ethereal black-and-white reception at The Cedar Room.
Striking portrait style
In between the ceremony, the newlyweds snuck off with their wedding party to capture a series of striking portraits.
On trend: trolley transportation
The wedding party had an absolute blast travelling from the ceremony to the reception on an historic trolley.
Reception style: classic elegance | modern feel
The reception design focused on classic elegance with a modern, romantic feel. MOD Events Charleston transformed the reception space with flowing draping, soft lighting, and refined florals, creating an atmosphere that felt elevated yet welcoming.
Custom detail: cookies “for Y’all and Yinz”
What truly set the day apart was how thoughtfully Blakely and Jim honored both sides of their family and culture. Guests were treated to a traditional Pittsburgh cookie table featuring thousands of cookies handmade by loved ones and shipped down in a refrigerated truck. Italian tarantella dancing filled the dance floor alongside soul music and sweet tea, while dessert to-go bags cheekily read, “Cookies for Y’all and Yinz.”
Detail we love: cascading cake bow
The bride and groom cut into a sophisticated white three-tier cake with a large velvet bow that cascaded down onto the table.
A lively second-line exit
The night ended with a New Orleans–inspired second-line exit, complete with custom beads and umbrellas — a joyful nod to Blakely’s years living in the Crescent City.
Advice from the couple
“Remember what the day is truly about,” Blakely shared. “No matter how many decisions you make or details you plan, the most important thing is celebrating your marriage surrounded by the people you love. Everything else will fall into place.”
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