The Tale of Audrey + Joe: A Charleston Engagement Session
“Charleston is a city rich in culture, history and hospitality, and it is where both Joe and I chose to attend school at the College of Charleston. We first met on Halloween night, dancing at a concert on the Charleston Harbor. I was dressed as a sailor girl, and Joe was (halfheartedly) dressed as Batman. According to Joe, I caught his eye while sharing a dance with his friend (dressed as the Hamburglar) and he decided to intervene. He asked me to dance and I never would have guessed that he would end up being the one to sweep me off my feet! Charleston is the city where our love story began, and where we grew up together as we navigated college, careers and everything in between. ”
“Though we ultimately decided to relocate to Charlotte, NC, it was only fitting that Charleston is where Joe chose to ask a much bigger question than, ‘Can I have this dance?’”
“Joe proposed on the rooftop of the historic Andrew Pinckney Inn, where we were staying for a surprise weekend getaway. We were the only two people at the rooftop café (besides Joe’s sister, Monica, who he had roped into hiding in the corner to snap some pictures of the big moment) and we had the perfect view of the city where it all began. After Joe popped the question, we popped some champagne and enjoyed a celebratory toast overlooking the harbor. From there, we went around the corner to the coffee and dessert bar where we had our first date, and then hoped on a rickshaw to ride to dinner at our favorite Italian restaurant. The biggest surprise of all came when we rounded the corner, and standing at our table cheering were my parents, Joe’s parents, his sister, our grandparents…it could not have been more perfect! We spent the evening celebrating with family under the stars, reminiscing about the times that led us to that moment and discussing the future we were now promising to build together. ”
“Joe and I were so excited to return to Charleston for our engagement photo session and capture memories around the city that is so special to our hearts. ”
Here are some of Audrey and Joe's Charleston favorites:
“Tourist must see: The Battery and all of the fun spots down Broad and East Bay Street
Complaint about the tourists: I affectionately refer to them as “the darters,” jumping in front of cars and bikes seemingly from nowhere and without a second glance. Pedestrian crossing rules are out the window!
Bar: Cocktail Club
Weekend activity: Strolling through the Farmer’s Market in Marion Square and enjoying a crêpe on the lawn while listening to the live music.
Meal: Anything consumed during brunch at Hominy Grill. I drag my friends to wait through the sometimes hours long line ahead of us, but the wait turns into a party as we sip beverages at the outdoor patio bar. And the biscuits (especially the “Big Nasty”) are always worth the wait!
Beach: Sullivan’s Island
Charleston celebrity: Darius Rucker
Restaurant: Cru Café
View: Overlooking downtown from the top of the Ravenel Bridge during the annual Charleston Bridge Run. Joe and I have done it together for the past 5 years and counting!”
“Tourist must see: Exploring the Charleston City Market
Complaint about the tourists: They eat at Hyman’s Seafood
Bar: Juanita Greenberg’s
Weekend activity: Drinking, eating and walking around the city
Meal: The burger with truffle fries at Oak Steakhouse, to be enjoyed with a Fat Tire at the bar
Beach: Folly Beach is great for a party atmosphere, but I have to go with Sullivan’s Island
Charleston celebrity: Bill Murray
Restaurant: Pearlz Oyster Bar
View: Waterfront Park ”
