as a direct descendent of 19th-century politico John C. Calhoun, Kristin Lyons knew that Charleston was the perfect place to hold her destination wedding to Rakesh Kumar. After attending a wedding at the William Aiken House—just a few blocks from a statue of her ancestor in Marion Square—Kristin fell in love with the venue. “Rakesh had never been to Charleston, but after one trip he was sold,” Kristin says. “I’m not sure if it was the biscuits and gravy at Hominy Grill or the charming streets of Charleston, but we immediately met with our wedding planner Lizz Akerman and began the planning process. We knew it would be perfect!”

The couple met in NYC through Kristin’s twin sister’s husband, who happens to be best friends with Rakesh. “I guess you can say identical twins go after the same type of guy,” Kristin says, laughing. Rakesh proposed two years later in Central Park, and afterward, he surprised his new fiancée with a gathering of all of their family and closest friends at their favorite restaurant.

The fun continued on their wedding day, which had a 1920s Southern vibe, playing off of the look of the historic William Aiken House. Using a fresh palette of gold, mint and rhubarb along with farm tables and formal gold linens helped create a look that called to mind the glamour of the 1920s.

The theme continued with the food, which was served via chef-attended stations, adding to the high-end cocktail party feel. The menu blended Southern classics and Indian food, a nod to Rakesh’s heritage, and the cake, created by Fish Restaurant’s head pastry chef Susie Ieronemo, was inspired by the lace pattern in Kristin’s dress.

The unique couple filled their big day with thoughtful details including customized Nikes for the groomsmen (and Kristin!), sunglasses as wedding favors (which also served as the “ticket” into the after-party) and cocktail napkins printed with fun phrases like “Shhh, don’t tell anyone, you’re our favorite guest!” and “This one’s on me. Love, Dad.”

The couple relied on Lizz Akerman of Southern Protocol to bring their vision to fruition. “She did an incredible job every step of the way,” Kristin says. “She was able to transform our style and vision into a truly amazing event. She had a unique eye for design and had so many ideas to help create a weekend that we will never forget.”

Planning, design and coordination by Lizz Akerman of Southern Protocol. Photography by Jennifer Bearden. Catering and cake by Fish Restaurant. Flowers by Stems. Rentals by EventWorks/Snyder. Lighting by AV Connections. Ceremony/dinner music by Charleston Brass. Reception music by Hot Sauce. Stationery by Dodeline. Bridal gown by Monique Lhuillier. Bridal shoes by Gianvito Rossi. Bride’s makeup by Katie O’Neil, Makeup Your Face, LLC. Bridesmaids’ hair and makeup by Lindsey Enander Hedin, Lovely By Lindsey. Groom’s suit from Nicholas Joseph in Chicago. Groomsmen’s accessories from Trunk Club.