A Coastal-Chic Wedding at The White Oak in Morehead City, North Carolina

In a matter of just eight months, US Army captains Sally White (30) and Will Fuller (30) planned an epic 200-person party that reflected their classic Southern style with thoughtful nods to their military roots. Copper chairs, marble chargers and black flatware juxtaposed the organic look of anemone and garden rose centerpieces, resulting in a polished aesthetic that was unique to both the couple and their family-owned venue. Sally commissioned a local Durham designer to create her custom silk crepe sheath after spotting a similar design in a catalog. Black and gold invitations detailed a military timeline for the evening, while a “Beat Navy” rallying cry was added to cocktail napkins, flags and signs. Traditional US military challenge coins were also gifted as party favors. Separate tents were constructed for each event, including cocktail hour, dinner and one dedicated solely to dancing. Guests helped themselves to beers from a beverage boat and fueled a night of dancing with late-night tacos and rum-spiked snow cones. “Their energy was infectious,” the bride says of the lively reception band that performed a set of Sally-themed songs, including “Mustang Sally.” Rather than participate in a grand exit, the newlyweds stuck around to mingle with partygoers well after the band’s encore. “The lack of an exit turned out to be my favorite part of our wedding,” Sally says. “It allowed us to linger with our guests until 3 a.m. while polishing off the last of the booze and reflecting on the most magnificent evening.”