After postponing their nuptials twice, the Subers celebrated their joyous union at their romantic modern wedding celebration in Columbia, South Carolina!
Chanell and Otis first met at a family gathering. They felt an instant connection, but Chanell and Otis were nervous, causing them to not act on their feelings. Eventually, Otis decided to go for it and as their conversation developed they realized they both had many shared interests and dreams. They continued to grow as a couple, supporting each other through hardships and making many beautiful memories along the way.
During Christmas of 2020, Chanell and Otis’s families decided to have a destination Christmas together in Oak Island, North Carolina. Christmas day began normally; everyone opened presents, helped the children assemble toys, and relaxed. After everyone sat down for dinner, Otis stood up and announced he had something he wished to say.
I heard our song playing in the background and I immediately knew what was happening *cue the fireworks*. Otis asked me to marry him. I said “YES” and couldn’t have been happier.
– Chanell
Having to postpone their wedding twice due to the pandemic and Chanell needing an unexpected kidney transplant, the couple was overjoyed to finally have the romantic wedding celebration of their dreams!
From planning to the big day, they thoroughly enjoyed every part of the process.
Their early spring wedding featured an abundance of bright red flowers, floating candles, and soft pink details to create a romantic atmosphere with modern style.
Their journey together has been nothing short of extraordinary, and their wedding day was a true celebration of the love they’ve nurtured through every challenge life has thrown their way. #LoveisSuberSweet isn’t just a hashtag—it’s the mantra that guided them through the toughest times…
– Ariel Enid Photography
Learn more about their love story and see the romantic details of their wedding below!
- Couple: Chanell & Otis
- Occupations: Marketing | Machine Operator
- Wedding date: March 16, 2024
- Wedding location: Columbia, South Carolina
Quick Facts:
- Gifts for Bridesmaids and Groomsmen: After the rehearsal, the wedding party was invited to a memorable outing. Beginning with dinner where everyone enjoyed good company and laughter. The fun then continued at an R&B concert which they all enjoyed while singing and dancing to some of their favorite throwback hits. It was a perfect opportunity for bonding and a celebration before the special day!
- Gifts for one another:
- The bride honored the groom’s late mother and created a heartfelt surprise for the groom by including a special tribute in his jacket. During an intimate moment, he revealed the beautiful portrait of his mother that she had discreetly embroidered on the inside lining. With the portrait placed close to his heart, the emotional unveiling gave the groom an unforgettable piece of her presence and unconditional support.
- The groom recited a beautifully crafted prayer and promise for their marriage during their first look. With sincerity in his voice, he read aloud his heartfelt words while holding the bride’s hand. Emotion overcame the couple as he spoke of love, unwavering support, trust, and his promise of strength in any challenges they may face. It was the perfect moment and filled their hearts as they turned to see each other for their first look.
- Ceremony entrance song: “Looking for Love” by Mul-Ty
- First dance song: “You” by Jesse Powell
How did you meet?
We met at a family gathering. There had been an instant connection, but we both ignored it for some time, allowing nerves to get to us. Eventually, Otis finally broke the ice and we began conversing and discovered so many shared interests and joint dreams. From there, as a young couple, we continued to grow individually and in love bringing us where we are today.
Tell us about the proposal.
Merriest. Christmas. EVER. In 2020, we traveled to Oak Island, NC for a destination Christmas with family. It was a Christmas that we had always dreamed of – our families under one roof to share in holiday festivities and laughter. Christmas morning was perfect. The kids woke the parents up with excitement eager to open their gifts. After exchanging gifts, much of the day was spent relaxing and assembling toys – normal Christmas day.
Then fast forward to the evening. It was already planned that we would gather for a nice family dinner. So there we were, all standing as the food was being blessed. Immediately afterward, Otis says he has something to say (for those who know him, speaking in front of groups [even family] is not his thing) but then I heard our song (Gerald LeVert’s “Can’t Help Myself”) playing in the background and I immediately knew what was happening *cue the fireworks*. Otis asked me to marry him. I said “YES!” and couldn’t have been happier.
Describe your wedding attire.
Modern romance describes our wedding style from the venue, to the decor, to our attire. We wanted a romantic setting and for our wedding day looks to compliment that. Comfort was also part of the goal as we wanted to ensure that we were comfortable and truly able to enjoy each moment.
What was the wedding shopping experience like for you?
Wedding shopping was an absolute dream! From the very beginning, it felt like stepping into a fairy tale. There was so much anticipation about finally getting to the process. Backstory- our wedding had been postponed TWICE. First, during the pandemic, then a second time when I received a kidney transplant that would require months of recovery.
Needless to say, when the process was finally able to begin, we dove in with tons of excitement. Trying on wedding gowns was special – with each dress and each twirl in the mirror, I remember seeing a much softer side of myself come out. Each moment was priceless. From dress shopping to venue browsing to cake and food sampling, everything was hand-picked based on the joy we felt during the process and how we envisioned we would feel on our wedding day.
Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding?
We incorporated meaningful tributes throughout our wedding. “The most notable tributes were the florals and wedding colors,” Photographer Ariel Enid shares. “Roses were selected as the primary flower in arrangements to pay a special tribute to the bride’s late grandmother, Queen Rose, who was also in the floral business. Burgundy and deep reds were selected as the wedding colors to pay tribute to the groom’s late mother which made her a special part of the day.”
What is your best memory from your wedding?
Our wedding gave us so many sweet memories but if selecting just one, it would be the first look. It was one of the most magical and romantic moments of our wedding day. Perfectly staged and just us. We were able to get completely lost in our own world and share an intimate moment filled with sweet whispers, laughter, and tears. The time spent connected before the ceremony truly grounded us. It was a perfect way to begin the day and we’ll always cherish that memory.
What is the best advice you can give to engaged couples?
During the planning process, follow your heart. Incorporate those unique and non-traditional elements that matter to you. You’ll thank yourself in a major way afterward. As a couple, it’s important to remain partners from the wedding planning process through the beautiful journey of marriage. Prioritize one another and never stop dating. Give a constant effort to communicate with love and remain as one through challenges.
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Vendors:
- Planning + Design + Florals: Opulence Events + Designs
- Photographer: Ariel Enid Photography
- Second photographer: Brittany Ross
- Detail photographer: Natarsha Adams
- Rentals: Pomp Posh Event Decor & Rentals | Luxe Event Rentals and Production
- Invitation Designer: LMH Stationery & Designs, LLC
- Cake Designer: Bonnie Brunt Cakes
- DJ: DJ Hollywood Dub “H Dub”
- MUA: Esthetized by Nadia
- Second MUA: Shades of Kim Beauty LLC
- Hair Stylist: Fabstylez by Shon
- Dress Store: Blush Couture
- Dress Store: Grace Kelly’s Prom & Pageant
- Wedding gown: K McCray Bridal
- Caterer: Perfectly Plated
- Reception Venue: 701 Whaley
- Tuxedos & bridesmaid dresses: Blush Couture
- Lighting, Clouds, etc: A Splash of Cola
- Bartending Services: SippinWitTim
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