Ansley & Russell at Seibels House

We’re nothing if not a little whimsical here at Historic Columbia.

There’s a soft spot in our hearts for a classic tale of action and adventure—which is why we’re so excited to share Ansley and Russell’s wedding reception with you.

The couple were married just down the street at First Presbyterian, then made their way over to the heart of the Robert Mills Historic District for the reception. A self-confessed Tolkien fan, Ansley incorporated the Lord of the Rings soundtrack into the wedding party’s arrival at Seibels House.

In the garden, the couple hosted a cocktail hour with every hobbit’s favorite pastimes—dancing and cornhole.

Dinner and the cake-cutting took place inside. Guests gathered in the entry hall to watch Ansley and Russell toast with delicate gold chalices straight from Galadriel’s cupboard. In lieu of a guestbook, the couple invited their family and friends to sign a map of the world.

Jamine Santiago at Classic Catering also took the theme to heart. Guests enjoyed an extraordinary assortment of international dishes from Indian gulab jamun to Vietnamese dumplings and German streusel. But the adventure didn’t stop when the buffet ended—guests were given treats from Brazil, China, Vietnam, Korea and France to take home as favors.

And how did the couple make their exit? To the Star Wars soundtrack, of course. Because sometimes, love can transport you far, far away.

One year later, Russell says that party guests still talk about how much fun they had at the reception. We’re so glad Ansley and Russell chose to begin their next great adventure with us at Columbia’s oldest home.

One ring to rule them all, indeed.

Photography: Lumos Studios
Tables/Chairs/Linens: Party Reflections
Audio equipment: Sims Music
Catering: Classic Catering
Bouquets, cake: Publix on Harbison
Centerpieces & decorations: Cathy Wingate, Miriam Ashworth, Catharine Halkyard and Jeanette Wingate