In the quiet heart of Charleston, hidden behind unassuming walls, Saint Urban’s played host to a rehearsal dinner that felt more like a scene from a European art film than a pre-wedding gathering. Designed by Alyson Antinopoulos of Elisavet Events, the evening embodied a distinct kind of elegance—one that whispered rather than shouted.

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“The overall vision for this rehearsal dinner was to strike a balance between elevated and understated,” Antinopoulos explains. “A setting that felt refined and impeccably curated, yet effortlessly inviting.” It’s a signature ethos that defines Elisavet Events: sophisticated design that never feels overdone, layered with intentionality and rooted in emotion. For this particular evening, inspiration came from a place of intuition and travel—particularly a recent trip to Malfa, a sun-kissed village on the Island of Salina.

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“I leaned into earthy neutrals and soft, sun-faded hues, reminiscent of the Mediterranean coastline,” she shares. Saint Urban’s interiors—a symphony of warm lighting, rich textures, and mustard yellow accents—inspired everything from the napkin rings to the florals. “We incorporated branchy yellow blooms, a subtle nod to the restaurant’s pillows. It added just the right pop of color without overwhelming the space.”

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One of the standout design details was the use of travertine napkin rings—a nod to volcanic terrain and the grounding textures of Sicily. “I wanted to incorporate a material that felt both organic and architectural, grounding the tablescape with a touch of European elegance,” says Antinopoulos. The rings brought this sculptural weight to the table, a modern counterpoint to the otherwise organic composition.

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As guests gathered around a single long table bathed in candlelight, the design encouraged intimacy. “The format was intentional. It created a sense of connection—like a European-style gathering where meals are slow and meaningful.”

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The ability to craft immersive, narrative-driven experiences is what sets Elisavet Events apart. “I create experiences that linger—transportive moments rooted in emotion and elegance,” Antinopoulos says. “My signature style is refined yet effortless, modern yet timeless.”

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Having spent years immersed in high-end weddings and large-scale productions, Alyson brings both an artist’s eye and a producer’s mindset. “Collaborating with exceptional vendors nationwide has taught me how to blend beauty with function—creating events that are seamless behind the scenes and unforgettable in the moment.”

When asked what excites her most about planning, she returns to her love for smaller, design-forward gatherings. “There’s something incredibly special about intimate events—they allow for thoughtful storytelling. This rehearsal dinner is exactly that. Deeply personal, impeccably styled and effortlessly elegant.”

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As for what’s next? “I see Elisavet Events expanding into destination events across Italy and Austria,” she says. “A private villa on Lake Como, a bespoke celebration in Vienna—those are the dream projects. Clients who trust my vision completely, and let me create something truly one-of-a-kind.”

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With a grounded yet aspirational aesthetic, Elisavet Events is carving a new lane in the world of luxury events—one where beauty is found in every deliberate detail, and where stories unfold across candlelit tables and curated spaces.