Maggie & Kyle's Wickliffe House Wedding in Charleston, SC by Sara Bee Photography, Dannon K. collard and EventHaus with a mint, peach and gold color palette and cigar bar.
Elegant Beach Wedding on Folly Beach by Molly Joseph Photography
Y'all, get grab a cup of coffee and comfy because you're about to spend the rest of your Monday morning pinning this beautiful Folly Beach wedding. Polly and Devin tied the knot this September just outside of Charleston at a wonderful beach house - the Robinini by the Sea. Polly looked quite stunning in the perfect lace fit and flare gown while Devin looked dapper in a classic tuxedo. The couple married in an intimate oceanside ceremony before celebrating the night away with their guests. We love how this couple incorporated their pooch into their big day and all of Polly's DIY details. A big thank you to Molly Joseph Photography for sharing all the loveliness!
Charleston Wedding Vendors
Photographer: Molly Joseph Photography // Cake Designer: Ashley Bakery // Officiant: Christy Loftin Details Charleston // Caterer: Crazy Dutchman Catering // DJ: Other Brother Entertainment Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Vibrant Folly Beach Wedding by Duvall Events
If you've made your mind up and beach wedding is in your future, then you'll love every minute of this vibrant Folly Beach affair designed by Duvall Events and photographed by Richard Bell Photography. The beautiful bride sported a simple, elegant gown with a pair of Jack Rogers while the groom wore a tan suit. The tables were set with bud vases filled with an assortment of wildflowers while Jeanne's bouquet was full of luscious, pink peonies and daisies! After a touching ceremony, the newlyweds took some time to themselves for pictures on the dock before celebrating the night away with all of their guests!
From Jeanne: "A Celebration of Love - The most important thing to us in our wedding was celebrating love. We wanted the focus to be on the love between us, the love between us and our families, and the love between us and our friends rather than the little details and decorations. We wanted a naturally beautiful setting so we settled on the location, a Folly Beach house at the Washout, which happened to be owned by the family of our friend who introduced us. We wanted simple but elegant atmosphere so we chose to have string lights, seasonal wildflowers, and candlelight for decorations."
Photographer: Richard Bell Photography//Dress Store: Condon's Bridal Boutique//Caterer: Crazy Dutchman Catering//Event Planner: Duvall Events//Cake Designer: The Cake Stand//
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Navy Pavilion at Patriots Point Wedding by Sweetgrass Social
If you're a Southern gal who's in the mood for a preppy affair, then sit down and take a peek at this Pavilion at Patriots Point wedding from the sweet ladies at Sweetgrass Social. It's everything you could want in a Lowcountry wedding and so much more. We love the navy color palette, the boys in their dinner jackets (so very T-Rav of them!), the Citadel ceremony, the charming Navy table runners and last but definitely not least, Shannon's stunning gown. Thanks to Jamie Clayton Photography for capturing all of the wonderful details.
What is your engagement story:
"Dan and I are high school sweethearts. We had been dating (with the usual college ups + downs) for 10 years, 1 month, and 1 day on the day of our wedding. So the wedding, especially the reception, was as much about thanking our family and friends for being by our sides during all those years together as it was celebrating our marriage. We wanted to make sure they felt special and knew how much we appreciated each of them - which was what inspired the photo escort cards and the thank you place cards."
Why did you choose Charleston for your wedding?
"Dan went to the Citadel and we have so many wonderful memories in the city from our college days. So we knew Charleston was the perfect place to "trap" all of our family and friends for a long weekend (a welcome party Friday, beach day Saturday, rehearsal dinner Saturday night) so that by the time Sunday night rolled round everyone felt like family."
What were your favorite wedding details from the weekend?
While beautiful, my mother's dress was quite different from the look I envisioned for myself; it was form fitting and all lace. Therefore, I ended up seeking out my perfect dress. But, I knew I had to honor my mom in some way so we included the beautiful lace from her dress by wrapping it around my bouquet and my grandmother sewed a small purse for me to carry made out of my mom's dress. My great grandmother's brooch was also pinned to my bouquet as my something borrowed.
"Selecting our readings and readers was very important to us. My grandmothers read a poem called 'On Your Wedding Day'. They are two of my favorite people in the entire world, and it was very important to me to include them. The poem, which was about marriage and the new beginnings, was so fitting for the occasion, and I thought there was no one better to share that than two women who I looked up to and had great loves in their life. We also had Dan's brother's fiance (and the mom of our adorable flower girl) read 1st Corinthians. We knew it was a popular reading, but it's message was very important to us."
What were the most memorable parts of the day?
" I would have to say the first look. On the day of the wedding we were both nervous and very excited, especially Dan. I can't even describe the moment of seeing him for the first time, but for both of us it was like a wave of calmness and serenity ( silly as that may sound.) I later learned Dan was very anxious and stressed which he says all went away after the first look and being able to tell me all about his morning. I am so glad that we had the first look so he could be calm and present during the ceremony. A close second, was our last song - Piano Man. It has become a tradition at our New Years Eve parties to play Piano Man just after midnight. So we decided to select it as the last song of the reception, and swaying in a quite large circle with our best friends and family singing our hearts out was such a happy, perfect ending to what really was our perfect wedding.
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Charleston Wedding Vendors
Event Planning: Sweetgrass Social // Venue: Links at Patriot's Point // Church: Summerall Chapel // Cake: Claire's Confections // Rentals: EventWorks // Flower: Wildflower // Photography: Jamie Clayton // DJ: http://djscharleston.com/profiles/lucas-wade/ // Transportation: Absolutely Charleston // Invitations: Scott Cline Designs
Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Romantic Purple wedding at The Island House from Amelia + Dan Photography, Pure Luxe Bride, Branch Design Studio, Ash and Co., B. Gourmet Catering and Jenny Packham http://goo.gl/avZL0P
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Isle of Palms shoot from JOPHOTO, LB Floral, Honeybee Events and PhotoVision http://goo.gl/U7My7a
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Interested in more information on A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine? To become a preferred vendor and to learn about print and online advertising options, contact hello{at}alowcountrywed.com to request a media kit.
Orange Wedding at the Pavilion at Patriots Point by Stephanie Yonce Photography
While many women dream of their wedding day when they were little girls, this was certainly not the case for Emily, as she simply didn’t think anything of planning her wedding day. That was until she met Jack. Their Charleston beach wedding reflected both their fun-loving personalities and causal demeanors. With the help of The Cordial Cricket, Emily and Jack planned every detail of their orange wedding down to the mad-lib response cards. From the bridesmaids’ dresses and Jack Rogers to the starfish inspired raffia chair swag and nautical centerpieces, the wedding day details perfectly complemented the hues of turquoise and orange found throughout the ceremony and reception spaces.
Guests were given a bit of Charleston flair in remembrance of Emily and Jack’s big day. In true Southern fashion, Emily and her mother assembled a small satchel of grits along with a favored shrimp and grits recipe. Sealed with custom labels and love, this DIY wedding favor was a big hit among all the attendees.
When asked about favorite wedding day memories, Emily was particularly fond of their first look. As she shares, “This moment was so special. It was just the two of us, the ‘calm before the storm’, where we had 30 minutes to ourselves to take everything in. It significantly calmed my nerves down, and helped me to really appreciate and remember every moment for the rest of the evening. Not to mention, some of my favorite pictures were taken during this time.”
One of the biggest bits of advice Emily offers for future brides is to accept that some circumstances will be absolutely out of your control. For she and Jack, their sand pouring ceremony didn’t quite turned out as planned with the sand funnel didn’t arrive. She says that laughing it off and moving on is the best way to make an imperfect situation perfect.
Photographer: Stephanie Yonce Photography // Makeup Artist: Charmaine Edwards // DJ: Choice Entertainment // Cake Designer: DeClare Cakes // Shoes:Flowers By Frankie // Hair Stylist: Inside Out Salon // Bridesmaid Dresses: J. Crew // Shoes: Jack Rogers // Band: Other Brother Entertainment // Invitation Designer: Paper Freckles // Caterer:Relish Catering // Equipment Rentals: Snyder Rentals // Event Planner: The Cordial Cricket // Event Venue: The Pavilion at Patriots Point // Dress Designer: Wtoo Brides by Watters // Other: OFD Consulting LLC
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Romantic Purple wedding at The Island House from Amelia + Dan Photography, Pure Luxe Bride, Branch Design Studio, Ash and Co., B. Gourmet Catering and Jenny Packham http://goo.gl/avZL0P
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Isle of Palms shoot from JOPHOTO, LB Floral, Honeybee Events and PhotoVision http://goo.gl/U7My7a
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Interested in more information on A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine? To become a preferred vendor and to learn about print and online advertising options, contact hello{at}alowcountrywed.com to request a media kit.
Pink & Grey Founders Hall Wedding by Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay
I hope everyone enjoyed the last weekend of the summer season here in the Lowcountry. I have to say that I'm super bummed that my favorite time of the year is now officially over. On the flip-side, the end of summer bring wedding season and SEC Football, so I'm sure I'll move on quickly! As we usher in September, we thought we'd get things started with this lovely Pink and Grey Founders Hall Wedding captured by Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay. Founders Hall is located just outside of Downtown Charleston on the grounds of Charlestowne Landing. It’s the perfect spot for couples looking for a modern venue with a Lowcountry twist, just like Austen + Ryan. Bride Austen donned a lovely lace gown while her bridesmaids sported adorable grey dresses with pink sashes from Target. We're loving the effortless flower arrangements from Dazzling Designs with pops of pink peonies!
Venue: Founder's Hall // Photography: Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay // Coordination: Danielle of MI Services // Flowers: Dazzling Designs // Catering: Lowcountry Eats // Cake: Saffron's // Cornhole Set: Island Custom Wood on Johns Island // Bride's Dress: Casablanca from Dimitra Designs Bridal Emporium in Greenville // Bridesmaid's Dresses: Target // Groom's Suit: Men's Warehouse (Calvin Klein) // Groomsmen Suits: Men's Warehouse (Calvin Klein) // Hair/MUA: Spaloosh Salon // Band: Charleston Groove Factory
Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Vibrant Myrtle Beach Wedding from Memorable Moments and Scott Smallin Photography
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Dreamy Hilton Head Wedding at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort from Landon Jacob
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Interested in more information on A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine? To become a preferred vendor and to learn about print and online advertising options, contact hello{at}alowcountrywed.com to request a media kit.
Rustic Wedding in Charleston SC by The Click Chick Photography
The adorable Tasha & Jamel recently tied the knot at a friend's gorgeous Lowcountry home in Yeaman's Hall Plantation. Their rustic wedding included a color palette of blush, white, and gray, with accents of burlap. Tasha donned a lace, fit & flare dress with chic blush pumps. Jamel and his groomsmen sported gray suits and blush bow ties. Since both the Bride + Groom are Citadel grads, both finished off their looks by sporting their Citadel rings. Guests were treated to a delicious brunch which included shrimp & grits, watermelon and strawberry salad, sweet potato biscuits with ham and gazpacho shoots. One of our favorite details - the chalkboard photobooth backdrop! Thanks to The Click Chick Photography for capturing this adorable Charleston wedding!
Photographer: The Click Chick Photography
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Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Vibrant Myrtle Beach Wedding from Memorable Moments and Scott Smallin Photography
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Dreamy Hilton Head Wedding at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort from Landon Jacob
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Karlee + Shawn Charleston Elopement by CarolineRo Photography
A few months ago, we shared Karlee + Shawn's Surprise Folly Beach Proposal captured by the wonderful CarolineRo Photography. It was a joyous, low-key evening along the shore filled with touching moments of the adorable duo. It was clear that these two had something special and their romantic Charleston Elopement earlier this year shared the same sentiment. Bride Karlee stunned in a gorgeous strapless gown and romantic shawl that she paired with a bouquet in deep shades of red. But our favorite part was the ceremony. The candlelight, the cafe lights strung from above and the intimate setting creates an enviable backdrop for a touching Charleston wedding! Thanks to CarolineRo Photography for capturing such a beauty! If you'd like to see more, check out the couple's video captured by BlackDeerMedia.
Photographer: CarolineRo Photography // Videographer: BlackDeerMedia
Blue, Blush + Gold South Carolina Aquarium Wedding by Whimsey Photography
Kate + Nate were married in a tradtional ceremony at Second Presbyterian Church last summer in the heart of Downtown Charleston, South Carolina. To celebrate, the newlyweds joined their guests for a lively reception at The South Carolina Aquarium. Kate is a professional ballerina, a graphic designer and a wonderful artist, so it was no surprise that she put her creativity to work for her big day! She designed all of the details and amazing programs for her wedding guests. They chose a color palette of blue, blush & gold to accent the Aquarium and their aquatic guests. Our favorite part, in lieu of a traditional wedding cake, the couple treated their guests to a delicious Doughnut Table and adorable Groom's cake in the shape of a bow tie! Thanks to Whimsey Photography for capturing this gorgeous South Carolina Aquarium Wedding!
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Photographer: Whimsey Photography // Reception Venue: The South Carolina Aquarium
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
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Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Rice Mill Wedding from Shannon Noel Photography in shades of cranberry and peach
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from the ladies at Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Charleston Weddings {Amanda + Derek} Pepper Plantation
Our first issue of A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine served up quite an amazing group of Southern soirees filled with darling details from the top vendors on the coast of Carolina. They were pretty amazing if I do say so myself, and Amanda + Derek's Pepper Plantation wedding was at the top of the list! We all love Charleston weddings and when captured by Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay they tend to take our breath away. The minute I caught a glance of Amanda's dreamy neutral color palette I was hooked and the loveliness didn't stop there. The beautiful bride, her mother and sister teamed up with those talented ladies over at Ooh! Events to pull off a Lowcountry bash for books and the details are bound to make you swoon! Dying to see more?! Check out all the details in our complete digital edition of A Lowcountry Wedding Mag available for purchase here!
"Derek is a Southern gentleman from Alabama, and I'm a California girl. Derek moved to California for his job and since he didn't know anyone there when he moved, his boss suggested he join eharmony to help him meet people. Since I was always meeting the wrong men, my friends and I popped open a bottle of wine one night and they created my profile for me. He was the first guy who contacted me. We began emailing, then texting, then finally met. After a year and a half of dating he proposed! (There is more of our individual bios on our wedding website that you are welcome to use if you want more information).
Since all of my family lives in California, and all of his family lives in Alabama, we were going to have the wedding somewhere in the middle, but finally decided on Charleston. I had traveled there before and fell in love with the city. I knew this was going to be a challenge, planning a wedding from across the country, and couldn't have done it without the help of my Mom and Sister."
What made you choose your venue? What elements drew you to it?
When booking The Pepper Plantation we literally had to take a leap of faith. Planning from California, we had never seen the Charleston wedding venue in person but fell in love with the pictures we saw online. We found out that March 16th was the only date available. I remember calling Derek and saying, "I think we should just book it." I don't know what came over me. I think I was eager to put a big, fate, red check mark next to something on my endless "wedding planning" list. When the day finally came to see the venue in person, we were so happy! We love the open wood beams on the inside, and the rustic/masculine feel. Also the fact that it's just outside donwtown Charleston. "We did good babe" was what Derek told me after walking around the venue for the first time. I think we did good too.
Tell us all about the details! Did any have special meaning? What was your favorite?
My Mother worked at a florist in Orange Country, CA for many years so the flowers were her department, and they turned out beautiful. We had to book all of our Charleston wedding vendors in advance without any interviews. This is where A Low Country Wedding helped tremendously. I found most of my vendors through your site. After booking, my Mom, sister and I made a "girls trip" to Charleston where we set-up meetings with everyone! It was quite a trip! Coincidentally, my husband's job relocated him to Greenville, SC so I ended up moving there with him in January. My Mom would ship me homemade details to bring to the wedding. She created a custom moss-covered "H" (for Holley) to sit on the mantle, and it sits on the mantle in our home today. My sister made all of my programs and shipped those to me. They shipped me horseshoes to have as a lawn game. One of my favorite details was our guestbook that they had ordered off etsy. Guests would "leaf" their fingerprint on a hand-painted tree.
I also loved the antique bar we rented, our cigar bar and the lawn games we had for guests to enjoy (corn hole and horseshoes). With so many activities going on, it was such a fun afternoon! Our guests from California loved all the "Southern" touches that they never would have experienced at a wedding in California. We also collected pictures of us as children and put mine on the "Ladies" room door and his on the "Gentlemens" room door. This was such a cute touch that our guests loved.
I hate taking pictures (and so does Derek) but one of the most surprising aspects of that day was how much fun we had taking pictures with our photographers. Sean and Elizabeth are SO unbelievably awesome at what they do. They met with us before the wedding a couple times, spent quality time with us, laughed with us, I mean... really got to know us. The first time Derek took me home to meet his family in Alabama, he took me hunting and I shot a Buck. I think that made him fall in love with me! ;-) This CA girl had never even shot a gun. Anyway, Sean knew Derek was a big hunter and brought this really cool antique gun for us to pose with. They brought fun props (like old cameras) for us to play around with. It made our pictures tell our love story and every time I look at them I smile at how much fun we have together.
For the week of the wedding, my Parents rented a huge beach house on the Isle of Palms for my entire bridal party to stay in. It was the most favorite week of my life. Every day we had a different assembly line going on. We bought pralines from the open market in downtown Charleston, stuffed them in bags tied with ribbon, made homemade "Love is Sweet" stickers and gave them to guests as favors. We made my seating chart, bought the frame for my guestbook. Every where I looked the night of my wedding reminded me of the love from my family and girlfriends. Without their help, I would have been a disaster.
How did he propose? How long were you engaged for?
I knew the engagement was coming. We had to talk about the move to South Carolina and the timeline of everything. I am the hardest person to surprise because I guess everything. Every time Derek would say we're going out to dinner... ask me to go on a walk... I would think "this it it!! get ready!!" He KNEW I was anticipating it. One night I was going to his house after work. I was stuck in Los Angeles traffic and in a bad mood when he called and said he wouldn't be home until later that evening because he had to help his boss move. He said he would leave the key to his house in the tomato plant we had just planted together. I get to his place, go up the steps to the door, look in the tomato plant and there is a ring box. He opens the door, crying like I've never seen him cry before, got on one knee and proposed. He definitely surprised a girl who can't be surprised!
What’s your favorite picture from your wedding and why?
This is such a difficult question. I LOVE all of our pictures, really and truly. I cannot give enough praise to Sean and Elizabeth. A picture that stands out in my mind is one that wasn't planned. Derek and I were on the dance floor with all of our family and friends having the time of our lives, unaware that anyone was taking a picture of us and Sean & Elizabeth captured that perfect moment. It's in black & white and we're just staring into each other's eyes. I love it!
Tell us a little bit about your menu…
Since the majority of my guests were coming from California, I really wanted them to get a taste of the South. We had boiled peanuts by the bar during cocktail hour and pimiento cheese was passed around with some other delicious creations by The Crazy Dutchman. (When I first started dating Derek, I had never even heard of pimiento cheese). Shrimp and Grits, pork tenderloin and delicious sides were served at dinner with sweet tea of course.
Specialty Drinks?
When I first moved to South Carolina I discovered Firefly Sweet Tea vodka, so of course that had to be my specialty drink! Derek chose scotch as his signature drink to go along with the cigar bar we created near the outside fireplace. We had custom matchbooks made with our names and a deer with antlers on the front to appeal to all the men. He also made sure to have the local Palmetto micro-brew as a beer selection.
Something old: My Grandmother's handercheif with blue embroidery (also counted as my something blue).
Something new: My hairpiece and earrings
Something borrowed: I borrowed my sister's bracelet that she wore on her wedding day
Something blue: My Grandmother's handkerchief with blue embriodery
Most valuable piece of advice you’d give to a newly engaged bride
Really take time to enjoy the process and the big day. It is SO easy to stress about every little detail and become Bridezilla. Try to not worry about what other people will think. Think about what you want, what you love, your love for your fiancé and take help from whoever offers! Most importantly, soak up every moment of your wedding day. After months of planning, it goes by way too fast. I remember being on the dance floor and the wedding planner tapped me on the shoulder saying it was time to prepare for our farewell. I started crying because I wasn't ready for the party to be over!
Venue: The Pavilion at Pepper Plantation / Photographers: Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay / Reception Band: Travis Allison Band / Ceremony Music: Charleston Virtuosi / Bridal Shop: The Dresser Bridal Couture / Cake: Ashley Bakery / Bar & Catering: The Crazy Dutchman Catering / Event Planner, Florist & Rentals: Out of Hand Events & Ooh! Events / Hair & Make-up: Generations of Designs / Invitations: Invitations on Main / Officiant: Glenn Eubanks
Boone Hall Plantation Wedding {Kirsten + John}
If there's one thing we love, it's Charleston weddings and when Richard Bell Photography is behind the lens it just makes us love them even more! Kirsten + John tied the knot this summer in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina at the now famous (thanks to Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds!) Boone Hall Plantation. The couple met while both active in the military. Even though the twosome were stationed in different states, the active duty duo chose Charleston to host their destination affair. We adore the rustic blue color palette they chose to complement the burlap details. Thanks for sharing your darling Boone Hall Plantation wedding with us!
Photographer: Richard Bell Photography // Reception Venue: Boone Hall Plantation
Charleston Wedding {Aaron + Caroline} Creek Club at I'On
I get super excited when a killer team of wedding vendors team up to for a big ol' Lowcountry bash. That's exactly what happened when Ashley Nicole Events joined forces with Richard Bell Photography for Aaron + Caroline's gorgeous Creek Club at I'On wedding this year. During the wedding planning process, Bride Caroline was studying in Chile (yes, all the way in Chile!), so the mother-of-the-bride stepped up to the plate to design this beautiful Southern affair with the help of Ashley Nicole Events. The talented team of Wildflowers Inc. created vibrant arrangements in shades of purple, orange and pink to accent the lovely Summer day.
Event Designer & Planner: Ashley Nicole Events / Venue, Catering & Bar: Creek Club at I'On / Photography: Richard Bell Photography / Stationary: Dodeline Design / Rentals: Snyder / Florist: Wildflowers Inc. / Cakes: Charleston Cakes Etc. / Exit Boat: Geechee Girl / Music: DJ Wade - Other Brother Entertainment / Welcome bags & Favors: Ashley Nicole Events
Charleston {Kellie + Andrew} USS Yorktown Wedding
As you drive over the Cooper River Bridge from Downtown Charleston, on your way into Mount Pleasant, you'll see the majestic USS Yorktown docked in the Charleston Harbor. As eye-catching as it is from the Bridge, it's nothing compared to the view you'll see once you step foot on the massive ship. It's ah-mazing. You get a gorgeous view of the Holy City and as you look to your right, the Cooper is in the background. It's unreal and makes for the perfect setting for a beautiful Charleston wedding. Kellie + Andrew recently tied the knot on the flight deck for an unbelievable nautical-themed, military affair. The couple's red, white and blue bash was planned by the talented crew over at Intrigue Design + Events while Monika Gauthier Photography captured all the details of this charming USS Yorktown wedding!
Photographer: Monika Gauthier Photography | Wedding Coordination and Design: Intrigue Design & Events | DJ: Creative Sound | Cake: Ashley Bakery | Rental: Snyder Events | Floral: Distinctive Events | Catering: Jim n’ Nicks | Bar: Spike Bar
Charleston Weddings {Brian + Christen} Legare Waring House
Charleston Weddings {Jenna + Adam} Old Exchange Building
I know you ladies love your Southern weddings, but when it comes down to it, you're always craving Charleston weddings! Lord knows we can't blame you and I have a feeling this Old Exchange Building stunner will do just the trick. Carmen Ash Photography teamed up with the talented team at Southern Chic Weddings for this formal Lowcountry affair and we're loving every minute of it. Thanks to Carmen for filling us in on all the details...
Adam and Jenna met in February 2008 after Duke played a rugby game at Elon. Covered in mud and sporting a fading black eye, Adam convinced Jenna to take him to her sorority party afterwards. At the end of the night, Adam went back to Duke and didn't call. Once Jenna made the first move, they met up a few weeks later. Adam spent the next five weeks wooing her before she would agree to go to his fraternity formal in Williamsburg. She finally agreed, and they had a great time.
Fast forward two years through rounds of parties, formals, homecomings, trips to Myrtle Beach, and graduations. Jenna went backpacking in New Zealand and Adam came to visit. Adam got sent on an assignment to China with his job, and came home for a wedding in July. On July 19, 2010, the morning after the wedding, Adam took Jenna for a picnic at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens on Duke's campus. Taking a walk to cool off, Adam stopped under a trellis and dropped to one knee. Jenna was all too happy to accept.
Both had moved around growing up, and neither had a home town to default to. The obvious choice was a wedding in Charleston, South Carolina- Jenna's favorite city . Jenna took several trips to Charleston in between trips to China, working with vendors from 12 time zones away. They chose the historic Old Exchange Building for the reception. They picked a florist, a planner, and a caterer with one meeting, then found other vendors strictly using the Internet. Jenna ordered the perfect wedding dress from Amsale- complete with a big bow and pockets. With a few local friends including another bride, everything started falling into place. Then Jenna and Adam moved from China to Colorado. Another quick trip to Charleston to solidify their plans brought them to choose the Confederate Home and College garden for their November ceremony. Little did they know that the weekend before their I Do's, Steven Spielberg would be sitting in the same garden at Susan Sarandon's daughter's wedding.
Photographer: Carmen Ash Photography // Transportation: Absolutely Charleston // Hair Stylist: Affair Hair by...Tanesha // Makeup Artist: Bellelina // Caterer: Cafe Catering // DJ: Charlie Roberts Duo // Cinema and Video: Creekhouse Productions // Cake Designer: DeClare Cakes // DJ: Finger Snappin' Entertainment // Equipment Rentals: Snyder Event Rental // Event Planner: Southern Chic Weddings and Events // Event Venue: The Old Exchange // Floral Designer: WildFlowers Inc.
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Lowcountry Wedding {Morgan + Austin}
Thanks to our beautiful new online magazine, we are SEVERELY behind when it comes to blogging all of our favorite Lowcountry weddings which may have been a bad thing the past few months, but you’re all in for a treat now! Over the next few weeks prepared to be thoroughly spoiled with some serious Southern wedding inspiration starting with Morgan + Austin’s amazing Lowcountry wedding from the talented Jeanne Mitchum Photography. This South Carolina stunner is the epitome of everything we love about the coastal South. It’s effortlessly dreamy, wonderfully charming and makes us wish we were right there to enjoy that Lowcountry breeze. We can’t get enough of this earthy green and brown color palette and rustic details, not to mention the burlap-laced vases, that amazing anemone-filled bouquet and all of that natural sunlight!
From the Bride: We got married at my husband's parents' house off Abapoopa Creek on Johns Island. I made every decoration and all the favors by hand with ideas from pinterest and etsy. I spent hours googling free printable templates for heart shaped fans, gift basket tags etc. I have to say that the pictures are so beautiful due to the the amazing light we had and our amazing photographer. We were also very lucky in the weather department.
Photographer: Jeanne Mitchum Photography // Musicians: Charleston Virtuosi // Equipment Rentals: Snyder Rental Company // Floral Designer:Tiger Lily Florist // Cake: D'lish // Programs: Darling Girl Paper // Guest signing tree: Harvey Grey // Headpiece: Virginia Geiger Jewles // Groomsmen ties: Me and Matilda // Sign: AndtheSignSays // Hair: Stuart Laurence Salon
Thomas Bennett House Wedding {Sara + Joe}
Charleston Wedding {Erin + Steve} The Island House
I went weak-in-the-knees for every single Lowcountry wedding that has graced the pages of our premier issue! They're all stunning! But I have a special place in my heart for Erin + Steve's Island House bash. I'm not sure if it's how their amazing photographer Virgil Bunao captured all the details, or maybe how Ooh! Events dreamed up this eclectic color palette with eye catching flower arrangements, or what sounds like the perfect menu of libations and Southern dishes from Cru Catering that the duo treated their guests to, but I adore every last detail of this Charleston wedding. Thanks to Erin and her talented mother for adding all the personal touches to their big Southern wedding day! Even though we tried, we couldn’t include everything in the magazine, so to find out a little more about Erin’s big day you can read her answers below, but to see ALL the details check out the Mag here!
How did he propose? How long were you engaged for?
I think I may have the best proposal story ever. In August 2011, we'd planned to spend a weeklong vacation with Steve's parents in New Hampshire. The night before we were supposed to leave, Steve handed me a piece of paper. It took me a minute to realize that it was an itinerary for a surprise trip to Madrid - leaving the next day!! He'd planned everything - and had even done my laundry so I would have plenty of clothes for the trip! During our first day in Madrid, we roamed around the city and even went back to the place where we had our first kiss. The next day, he took me a private Spanish cooking class, and then to the Retiro park. He proposed in the park, and then told me we were going to spend the rest of the week on an engagement-moon in the Basque Country! It was like a dream.
What made you choose your Charleston wedding venue? What elements drew you to it?
I grew up in Chesterfield, SC and Steve is from New York, but we currently live in San Francisco. We knew we wanted to get married in South Carolina as a nod to my childhood, and we chose Charleston because we'd traveled there together and made some amazing memories. We looked at a ton of venues, and we really wanted to find a place that celebrated the natural beauty of the lowcountry. When we saw the Island House for the first time, we both knew it was where we wanted to get married. The proximity to the water, the wide open outdoor space, and the simple beauty of it all took our breath away.
Specialty Drinks?
Steve and I are cocktail aficionados, and the team at IceBox exceeded all our expectations (plus they let us do a really fun cocktail tasting ahead of time!). Our specialty cocktails were: Holiday in Spain (nod to our engagement and where we met - it was a jalapeno and cilantro margarita with macerated red peppers for a reddish tint) and the Johns Island Cider (Rum, Spiced Apple Cider, Mint, Ginger Beer).
What’s your favorite picture from your wedding and why?
That's really tough - mainly because Virgil is incredible. There's a picture of Steve and me holding hands out on the dock that I really adore, and then a party shot with us in front and all our friends behind us rocking out (and wearing neon glasses!).
Tell us all about the details! Did any have special meaning? What was your favorite?
-My mother handmade a lot of my favorite details from the wedding - homemade peach bourbon jam for the wedding favors, travel-themed placecards, and homemade pralines and benne wafers for our welcome bags. She worked so hard on everything, and it was so beautiful (and delicious!) so her creations were some of my favorite details.
-I really loved using table names instead of numbers. Steve and I love to travel, so I used chalkboard signs to write the names of places Steve and I have traveled together. People really got a kick out of sitting at the Reykjavik, Iceland or Zanzibar, Tanzania table
-The brooch that I pinned to my bouquet was particularly special to me. It's from a set of jewelry made by Tiffany's in the 1800s as a replica of the jewelry designed by Abraham Lincoln for Mary Todd to wear on her wedding day. I was the 5th generation in my family to wear this jewelry on my wedding day.
Tell us a little bit about your Charleston wedding menu…We are obsessed with good food, and Cru Catering made the wedding dinner of our dreams. For appetizers, we had a yellow tomato gazpacho shooter with habanero crema, collard green wontons, and a raw bar. We served a tomato and muskmelon salad with candied pecans, and a choice of ginger seared wreck fish or pomegranate glazed cornish hen. Objectively (or maybe not), this was one of the best meals of my life.
We did wedding pies instead of a wedding cake, and I couldn't have been happier with how it turned out! Lauren from Wild Flour Pastry blew us away with bourbon pecan pie, key lime pie with gingersnap crust, walnut derby pie, triple berry pie with oat streusel, and a banoffee (banana-toffee) pie! I heard that one older lady went back to the pie table five times to try all the varieties!
Something old: The family heirloom brooch I put on my bouquet.
Something new: My parents gave me diamond earrings, and my gorgeous Badgley Mischka shoes!!
Something borrowed: A sapphire and diamond bracelet from my grandmother
Something blue: Lots! My sapphire engagement ring and the sapphire/diamond necklace Steve gave me as a wedding day present.
Photographer: Virgil Bunao / Flowers, Décor & Design: Ooh! Events / Coordination: Ooh! Event, Emily Miller / Venue: The Island House / Ceremony Music: Classical Charleston / Reception Music: Atlanta Party Band / Catering: Cru Catering / Bar: IceBox / Wedding Pies: WildFlour Pastry / Tent & Rentals: Atlantic Tent / Photo Booth: Oh Snap! / Hair & Makeup: Jennifer Fernandez
Charleston Wedding {Ashley + Brian} Creek Club at I'On
I adore Ashley + Brian's Creek Club at I'On bash. Not only did it take place at one my favorite Charleston wedding venues, but the navy color palette with pops of emerald is bound to make any seafaring lady swoon! The Burlap Elephant designed an effortless Lowcountry evening complete with farm tables, patterned table runners and vibrant arrangements from Charleston Flower Market that set the tone for one helluva evening as The Boomers took the stage! Even though we tried, we couldn’t include everything in the magazine, so to find out a little more about Ashley’s big day you can read her answers below, but to see ALL the details you can purchase a digital edition of the Mag here!
Tell us a little bit about how you met your husband…
Brian and I met in an alley behind a pizza place in Washington, DC. (Explaining that one to my mother was fun!) We were in a running club that met up around the city.
How did he propose? How long were you engaged for?
Last summer I traveled to Costa Rica to become a yoga teacher. Brian surprised me in the jungle on my 30th birthday and proposed 2 days later on our favorite beach, right where the ocean crashes into the rocks to create a stunning spray. We were engaged for 8 months.
Out of the entire day, what was the most memorable moment?
For me, it was walking down the aisle with my dad towards Brian. The sun was shining, I had my dad supporting me and I was walking towards my best friend.
When the band announced last song, I wasn't quite ready for the party to end. But our guests started chanting for "one more song," formed a dance circle, and the band obliged--it was exactly what I needed. One more all out crazy moment to celebrate. And then I was ready to get on the boat and start our married life...
What made you choose your venue? What elements drew you to it?
We loved the Creek Club because it felt rustic yet refined. We knew we wanted our wedding to be outside, and the lawn offered a beautiful space right on the water. I fell in love with the big, wide porch on the Club and the exposed beams inside. It was an intimate space that connected our guests to us and each other. It was so naturally elegant.
Tell us all about the details! Did any have special meaning? What was your favorite?
I included special details for my grandmothers. On my bouquet, I pinned a brooch from my dad's mother, Mary, of two swans, which partner for life. I also borrowed a fur stole from my mother's mother, Betty (my Grammy!), which was embroidered inside with her initials.
For the Groom's cake, I had The Cake Stand recreate the Patagonia logo. Brian and I love being outdoors and have collected more than our share of rock climbing, camping, hiking, rain, etc. gear. Brian has at least 4 different brown fleeces from Patagonia, so it was a nod to our adventures.
We left the reception in boat, headed out towards to the Charleston harbor because we decided to move to Charleston after the wedding. It was a stunning way to end the night and start our new life here in Charleston!
At the Creek Club, we displayed pictures of our grandparents' and parent's weddings. It was important to us to share our family, especially those who are no longer with us, with our guests (and fun to see how wedding styles have changed!)
What’s your favorite picture from your wedding and why?
Our first kiss. The wind caught my veil as Brian kissed me--the image captures the joy we both felt on our wedding day. We were thrilled to be married, surrounded by our best friends and family and blessed with a bright blue sky and sunshine.
Tell us a little bit about your menu…
Lowcountry flavors and favorites (Cheddar Biscuit with Caramelized Onion Jam!) The best part was the amouse bouche-shrimp and grits! It was two bites of seared local shrimp and andouille sausage over stone ground grits with tasso cream.
How many guests attended: 120
Color Palette:Classic Navy Blue and White, accented with Bright Emerald Green
Something old: Grandmother's Swan Pin
Something new: Handkerchief with my new initials
Something borrowed: Grandmother's fur stole
Something blue: Kate Spade Shoes
Most valuable piece of advice you’d give to a newly engaged bride...
Brian reminded me throughout the planning process: "Keep the main thing the main thing." It didn't matter if we had the right flowers or the best band, at the end of the day, we would be married. That perspective helped me remember what I was really planning and kept me sane when I ran into struggle.
Vendors: Event Planner: The Burlap Elephant / Floral Designer: Charleston Flower Market / Reception Venue: The Creek Club At I'on / Rentals & Decor: Ooh! Events / Photographer: Jennings King Photography / Ceremony Music: The Palmetto Strings / Reception Music: The Boomers / Dress: Jim Hjelm From Hayden Olivia Bridal / Bridesmaids: J. Crew / Groomsmen Ties: Collard Greens / Invitations: My Personal Artist / Cake: Publix / Groom's Cake: The Cake Stand Charleston / Hair & Makeup: Vanity Salon