Washington, D.C. couple Erin and Ryan met over a mutual love of Florida State University football. “We met at a FSU game watching party…Ryan’s infamous pick-up line was ‘Hi’ and the rest was history,” says the bride. Erin always knew she wanted a destination wedding because of her love of the beach and travel, and, thankfully, Ryan was on board! When it came to deciding on a destination, this couple took a leap of faith. “We wanted a place that was on the East Coast and easily accessible for everyone traveling, but still had a destination feel,” says Erin. “Charleston has beaches, amazing restaurants and a lot of history. We had actually never been to Charleston when we started talking about it as a wedding location, so we booked a trip and immediately fell in love with the city.”

Because the couple didn’t have any contacts in Charleston, they did the majority of their research over the Internet, but also made two trips to narrow down their venue and vendors. “[We had] to get everything done in just a couple trips to the location before the wedding – which made for some action-packed weekends. The great part is, you get everything don’t at once!” The couple toured Creek Club at I’On toward the end of the day and instantly knew it was the venue for them.

Come W-day, Erin and Ryan were joined by 75 friends and family in their charming South Carolina locale. They exchanged vows underneath a beautiful tree strung with lanterns and with a babbling creek nearby. After the “I do’s,” guests enjoyed a cocktail hour on the venue’s wrap-around porch before heading inside to enjoy a Lowcountry buffet inspired by the destination. To make sure everyone satisfied their sweet tooth, Erin and Ryan had five beautiful cakes – each a different flavor.

Erin has some final words of advice for other couples considering a wedding away. “Everyone says this, but it cannot be stressed enough – take some time to take it all in during the day. Walk outside or somewhere in private and take 10-15 minutes just the two of you. Look at the setting from afar. Try to make the day slow down, if only for a few minutes. It will fly by.”

Vendors: Photographer: Joy Elan Photography, Day-Of Coordination: Fabulous Fete, Ceremony/Reception Site: Creek Club at I’On, Florist: Pretty Petals Charleston, Cakes: Publix, Rentals: Snyder Event Rentals, DJ: Lee Edwards Entertainment, Rehearsal: Southend Brewery, Hair: Kacie Faulling, Gown Designer: Alfred Sung, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Jos. A. Bank, Bridesmaids/Groomsmens’ Clothing Designer: Love Lane/Jos. A. Bank