Place Settings {Wedding Details}

Every Tuesday, we like to give all of our Charleston brides a healthy dose of some wedding day fabulous-ness.  Today, we're sharing some of our favorite images of place settings to hopefully inspire some of our brides-to-be while planning your big day.  Below, you'll see some brides went big with some bold colors and patterns, others kept it simple with a more neutral palette...but all of them made quite the statement.  Don't ya think!?!

Image via Style Me Pretty

Imae via Simply Hue

Image via Style Me Pretty

Image via Ritzy Bee

Image via Brooklyn Bride

Image via Ruffled

Images via Style Me Pretty and Once Wed

Image via This is Glamorous

Image via Once Wed

Image via Style Me Pretty

Image via Martha Stewart Weddings

Image via Style Me Pretty

Peach + Aqua Wedding Inspiration

I'm starting to get really sad that summer is over :(  But I do have to admit I am LOVING  this weather. I was in Atlanta last weekend for the UGA game and it was a steamy 95 degrees on Saturday.  Twenty-four hours later and it's a refreshing 75.  So, I can't really complain about that.  Thanks to my good friend Pinterest, I'm able to hang on to all these gorgeous images until I find the perfect time to use them.  I've really been diggin' the color peach over the past few months and recently I've taken a liking to pairing it with a beautiful coastal blue.  It's a very classic, relaxing...and almost even a neutral palette.  It is a perfect combo for A Lowcountry Wedding...

Images via: (1) Her Muse, (2) Oh Lovely Day, (3) DIY Weddings, (4) Break Down in the Beauty ,

(5) Style Me Pretty, (6) Style Me Pretty, (7) The Knotty Bride, (8) Creature Comforts

Myrtle Beach Wedding {Amy + Brian}

Today's wedding is elegance meets the coast and you know that's right up our alley :)  Photographed by the fabulous Gillian Reinhardt of Carolina Studios, this stunner took place just up the road from Charleston at The Breakers Resort in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.  The gorgeous couple, Amy + Brian, actually call Maryland home but since the groom's family resides in South Carolina they decided they couldn't resist a Lowcountry wedding (and let's be honest, who can blame them?).  The sounds of Pan Fusion's steel drum welcomed guests to the ceremony as the couple said 'I do' in front of a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean.  Afterwards, the lighthearted duo and crew made their way down to the beach to capture some very frame-able pictures...seagulls and all!

Is this not beautiful?  The scenery is incredible.

How cool is this picture...

Myrtle Beach Wedding Vendors

photographer: carolina studios by gillian reinhardt  /  floral designer: kings florist  /  steel drums: pan fusion  /  reception venue: the breakers resort  /  dress store: david's bridal  /  dj: jeff benton, radio mobile dj

Lauren + Tom: Chapel Hill Engagement Session

The South is home to some of the most beautiful college campuses in the country.  With pristine lawns, historic buildings and a killer bar scene, I mean...first class academics, you can't beat the education and experience you get down South and UNC is at the top of that list.  Today's darling couple, Lauren + Tom, met at the prestigious University of North Carolina in beautiful Chapel Hill, North Carolina.   To celebrate their engagement, the Tarheel fans paraded around their old stompin' grounds with the ever-so-talented Joseph of Connections Photography.  As students, the duo regularly showed their school spirit by painting themselves in Tarheel Blue before basketball and football games.  So, they decided to paint themselves on more time and made for some super sweet photos.  Is Lauren not gorgeous?!

Boone Hall Plantation {Colleen}

Today's bride, Colleen had the brilliant idea to select the grounds of Boone Hall Plantation as the backdrop for her bridal portraits...and boy, did it pay off!   Located just over the bridge in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, this stunning Lowcountry venue is a must-see when location scouting.  Once home to the 2004 movie, The Notebook, Boone Hall offers a picturesque setting for bridals, engagement sessions, rehearsal dinners and weddings.

Photographed by talented Charleston photographer, Carmen Ash, Colleen spent the day touring the  property and taking advantage of the beautiful scenery.  How beautiful is this Southern bride and her perfectly Lowcountry portraits?

Sarah + Patric: The Swamp

Story time!  I grew up outside of Atlanta and after graduation attended the University of Georgia.  One summer during college I moved to Charleston and met a studly Citadel cadet who hailed from the Sunshine State.  As our relationship blossomed, it quickly became very apparent we had a serious issue on our hands...he was a huge University of Florida fan (insert Gator Chomp here).  Uh-oh.

A few years ago, bets were made on the Georgia/Florida game (which, if you've never been it's a fantastic time) and I lost.  As punishment, I was suppose to sport orange and blue at the following year's game.  Well, being the poor sport (and Georgia grad) that I am...I pouted and didn't do it :)  Since I politely declined, my now-husband has decided I need to make up for it by attending a game at "The Swamp" and at this point we just haven't made it down.  So, I figured, until we're able to plan a fall weekend to Gainesville, I'll just live vicariously through  Sarah + Patric as the spend an afternoon trouncing around the UF stadium with the lovely ladies of Stay Forever Photography for a killer Engagement Session.

Does this not make you excited for football season or what?

Does this not make you excited for football season or what?

Part III: Lowcountry Wedding Plantations

You may remember that at the beginning of the summer we started our Lowcountry Plantations series (Check out Part I and Part II) to assist you ladies in finding your perfect wedding venue.  Well, today we're back with three more of our favorites that are capable of hosting both your ceremony and reception on-site...

Honey Horn Plantation

Situated on the Jarvis Creek, Honey Horn Plantation is 68-acre property full of Lowcountry allure.  (Check out Jennifer + Rob's Honey Horn Plantation Wedding.  Isn't it gorgeous?) It has both indoor and outdoor locations for private events.  So if you're looking for a Hilton Head venue with a lot of Spanish moss, salt marsh and a beautiful sunset, I'd push Honey Horn Plantation to the top of your list.

Image via Jenny Evelyn Photography

Image via Jenny Evelyn Photography

Image via Amelia + Dan Photography

Honey Horn Plantation

70 Honey Horn Drive 29925

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Robin Swift - VP of Marketing + Development

843.689.3033 ext 224

rswift@coastaldiscovery.com

Drayton Hall

If you're looking to incorporate the Old South into your wedding day, look no further than Drayton Hall.  It was once used as a staging ground by both Colonial and British forces, has withstood numerous hurricanes (and even an earthquake!) and still stands in much the same way it did in the 18th century.  Simply put, it's just fantastic.  The plantation home ranks as one of America's finest examples of Pre-Revolutionary War architecture and will provide a truly stunning backdrop for your Lowcountry Wedding.  Oh, and just wait til you see the inside.

Image via Martha Stewart Weddings

Image via Liz Banfield

Image via Liz Banfield

Image via Martha Stewart Weddings

Drayton Hall

3380 Ashley River Road

Charleston, South Carolina 29414

843.769.2600

Natalie Titcomb Baker - Marketing Coordinator & Special Events

Natalie_Titcomb@draytonhall.org

The Pavilion at Pepper Plantation

The Pavilion at Pepper Plantation is a gorgeous venue just north of Charleston in Awendaw, South Carollina.  The Pavilion itself can accommodate up to 300 guests but make sure you take into consideration the season because it is not air conditioned.   With breathtaking views, a spacious porch (4,000 square feet of outdoor covered space!) and a serene surrounding, the Pavilion is the perfect space for a Lowcountry Affair.

Image via Chris and Cami Photography

Image via The Schultzes

Image via Leigh Webber Photography

Image via The Schultzes

The Pavilion at Pepper Plantation

1145 Chandler Road

Awendaw, South Carolina 29429

843.737.1885

PepperPavilion@gmail.com

Christen + Brian: Grande Dunes Ocean Club

Today, we're sharing Christen + Brian's beautiful December Wedding from Brooke Christl Photography.  The couple were wed in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina where they treated guests to a cozy, romantic reception at Grande Dunes Ocean Club.  Christen stunned in a sweet Watters & Watters gown she selected from the Little White Dress while then men and bridesmaids donned blacked.  She chose a classic black palette complimented by white and pale pink flowers from Callas Florist.  Photographer Brooke Christl used the drizzly day to her advantage and captured some awesome images throughout the wedding (I can't get enough of those umbrella shots). 

This is my favorite shot....

 

Kinda makes you ready for some cooler weather...right?

Thanks so much for sharing, Brooke!

Vendors

photographer: brooke christl photography  /  floral designer: callas florist  /  reception venue: grande dunes ocean club  /  dress: from the little white dress  /  cake: priceless desserts  /  dj: coastal entertainers  /  transportation: carolina limos

Aubrey + Jeff: Cathedral of Junk

Hope everyone had a relaxing weekend.  I can't believe it's already Monday morning again :(  I swear these summer weekends just keep flying by.  I wanted to kick off this week with one of the coolest engagement sessions I've ever seen.  The gorgeous couple, Aubrey + Jeff, share a love of collecting random things (Jeff may jokingly refers to his bride-to-be as a hoarder) and they plan to incorporate many of the treasures they've acquired into their upcoming wedding.   Jeff compares Aubrey's hobby to their five-year relationship saying, "If you keep something around long enough, you end up never wanting to let it go."  So, it made perfect sense they chose the Cathedral of Junk in Austin, Texas as the backdrop for their eclectic engagement session.  From the natural light and beautiful couple to the mounds of vintage finds and mustaches, photographer Caryn Wood of Love Caryn Photography, did an AH-mazing job capturing these two in their element.  I still can't get over how Aubrey's dress pops in every picture? Love it.

Vendors

photographer: love caryn photography  /  dress: buffalo exchange  / 

mustaches:  lucy in disguise

Wedding Keepsakes

My husband and I got married a little over a year ago and we were so touched that so many of our friends and family made the trip to Charleston for the weekend.  Since I grew up outside of Atlanta and my husband hails from Florida, even though we didn't consider our Lowcountry shindig a destination wedding many of our guests did.  Those travel expenses can add up pretty quickly!  So, needless to say, it meant a lot to us that, in addition to just attending the wedding, they also showered us with gifts.

While most guests stuck to our registries (which my kitchen very much appreciates!), some veered off and did their own thing...and not always in a good way.  Let's just say I still haven't acquired a liking for a few of the items.  I actually considered taking a picture of some of the "interesting" and cheesy gifts we received but figured that's pretty rude.  Like I said, I am more than thankful for any and ever gift we received, it just made me think that if guests choose to stray from the registry, it should be for something the bride and groom will treasure and not just toss to the side.

I guess you could say I'm a pretty sentimental person and I love any gift that has significant meaning, so I thought I'd round up some of my favorite wedding day gifts that are absent from your everyday registries.  I can promise you all of these keepsakes will be cherished for years to come.

"Remember the Day" Pillows

I may have a slight obsession with burlap which is why it's probably no surprise that Etsy dealer, Next Door to Heaven's, "Remember the Day" Pillows are one of my favorites.  These are the perfect day-to-day reminder of a couple's nuptials.

Venue Prints

Point DeVue is a Chicago based company that is a master of architectural artwork.   These unique sketches will add that personal touch to your gift.  What could be better than a constant reminder of the venue that was home to their magical evening.

Custom Heirloom Bowls

Located in Austin, Texas, Paloma's Nest specializes in all things heirloom.  They offer a large selection of handmade beauties that are intended to last for generations (just the way we like 'em!).  One of our favorites is the Large Custom Heirloom Bowls and it will look perfect displayed  in the bride and groom's home.

Sweetgrass Baskets

Ahhh, sweetgrass baskets.  The art of sweetgrass weaving is a Charleston staple that takes local palmetto strips and hand stitches them into intricate designs.  These sturdy keepsakes incorporate themselves nicely into any Lowcountry woman's serving ware collection.

Wedding Signs

I just love these.  Chocolate Butterbean makes the most beautiful wedding signs...don't you think?  They  are completely customizable and come in a range of sizes, mediums and the message is up to you.  The newlyweds will welcome this heartfelt addition to their humble abode!

Wedding Art Prints

I ran across Jenna Sue Designs on Sparkle & Hay last week and I've been smitten with it ever since.  This print is perfect for the sentimental bride and groom and can easily be reworked to include the couples own vows or the words their first dance.

Part II: Charleston Wedding Weekend Venues

So you've got your ceremony and reception venue and are slowly but surely lining up all your wedding day venues, but wait...what about your rehearsal dinner and bridesmaids luncheon?  Well if you're having trouble with your other Wedding Weekend Venues, don't fret, we're here to help!  You may remember a few weeks ago we started our "Wedding Weekend Venues" series with the Maverick Southern Kitchen's crew: featuring Old Village Post House and High Cotton.  Well, we're back this week with more of our favorites and are featuring the appetizing treats of Hospitality Management Group, Inc., better known to most as the Culinary Row of Blossom, Magnolias and Cypress. Besides their exquisite lowcountry cuisine, these neighbors and sister restaurants enhance their already amazing dining experience with a prime Charleston location off historic East Bay and are  the perfect spot for engagement parties, bridal showers, bridesmaids luncheons, rehearsal dinner and bon voyage brunches.

Magnolias

Oh Magnolia's, how I love thee!  Executive Chef Don Drake has a knack for presenting upscale Southern cuisine with an "uptown" twist.  Even your friends from up North won't know what hit 'em after they've been introduced to this supremely Lowcountry menu...chicken livers, anyone?

Magnolia offers two exquisite dining rooms that both share access to the private entrance off the quintessential Charleston, Lodge Alley and the beautiful spiral staircase that leads you straight to Upper Level Galley and lounge area (ideal for cocktail hour).  With its beautiful bay window overlooking the streets of Charleston, The Wine Room can comfortably accommodate 36 of your closest friends and family.  For large groups maxing out at 85, Magnolia offers The Primrose Rose.  Your guest will gawk at the beautiful French doors, balconies with views of Lodge Alley and a neighboring courtyard. 

 

  

Images  via Sposa Bella Photography

 185 East Bay Street

Charleston, SC 29401

Pat Pettus - Director of Group Sales

843.937.4012 ext. 241

patpettus@hmgi.net

Blossom

 Known for their wide variety of fresh, off-the-boat seafood and ah-mazing wood burning oven pizzas (seriously, you've got to try them), Executive Chef Adam Close and his team work closely with their guests to design a menu that incorporates your personal tastes and preferences.   

Blossom can accommodate intimate affairs ranging from 8-22 but also has the ability to welcome larger groups up to 200 by utilizing the entire dining room.  You'll be more than pleased with the staff's impeccable attention to detail  down the very last personalized menu card.  There is no doubt you and your guests will enjoy a truly memorable dining experience with first-class Southern hospitality.

   

Images  via Charleston Cocktail

171 East Bay Street

Charleston, SC 29401

Pat Pettu - Director of Group Sales

843.937.4012 ext. 241

patpettus@hmgi.net

Cypress

So, Chef Craig Deihl is pretty awesome.  I mean, he did win the James Beard award for Best Chef - Southeast in both 2010 and 2011, impressive, eh?  Well, his top notch, Charleston restaurant, Cypress, incorporates the regional fare by taking advantage of the Lowcountry's finest farmers and fishermen.   Additionally, it has a killer 3-story wall o' wine that features over 4,500 different bottles!

Complete with exposed brick walls, contemporary chandeliers and a gorgeous bay window, Cypress offers private dining options that can accommodate up to 75 guesets.  This room overlooks the main dining room and can be divided into 2 separate spaces.

167 East Bay Street

Charleston, SC 29401

Pat Pettus - Director of Group Sales

843.937.4012 ext. 241

patpettus@hmgi.net

Hope this helps!

Southern Weddings {Wedding Bouquets}

You can call Pinterest an addiction but I like to refer to it as research :)  I always thought it would be so fun to be a florist.  Would you not love to be surrounded by gorgeous blooms all day long?  I remember when I was planning my wedding and you could not pry me from the computer. I was constantly searching and searching for the perfect bouquet, boutonniere, centerpieces etc.  Sometimes, I would just find one type of flower or a particular shade of color that would be exactly what I was looking for.  So, my hopes in sharing Part II of Wedding Bouquets (Don't miss Part I!) is that they'll be that perfect bit of inspiration that has been the missing link to your wedding day inspiration board...

Enjoy!

Image via Bippity Boopity Boo

Image by Erin Hearts Court via Style Me Pretty

Image via Helen Carter Weddings

Images via Once Wed and Helen Chapple

Image via Southern Weddings

Image via Kiss the Groom

Images via Wedding Chicks and Ruffled

Image via The Bride's Cafe

Southern Weddings {Peach Chic}

I've been developing quite a fancy for the color peach recently, especially when it's used in a  Spring or Summer Wedding.  It's such a soft, sophisticated color and it works well in a classic Lowcountry  Wedding...and I'm really loving that chic floral arrangement and understated cake!

Images: (1) Forget Me Knot Weddings, (2-4) Style Me Pretty, (5) DIY Weddings Magazine, (6) Martha Stewart Weddings, (7) In Honor of Design (8) Her Muse, (9) Ruffled, (10) Grey Likes Weddings

Southern Wedding Engagement {Brittany + Skylar}

I always enjoy when couples include their pups in the engagement photos.  My two boys are like my kids and I really regret not having them join us...even though I'm pretty sure they would not have been half as well behaved as these two sweethearts.  But luckily for all of us, Brittany + Skylar just had to include theirs.  Our new friend, Southern wedding photographer Meg Baisden, spent a gorgeous New Orleans afternoon with the couple as they made their way through City Park.  They were blessed with beautiful weather, perfect light and a nice helping of Spanish moss (which any good Southerner can appreciate).  Hope everyone has a fabulous Charleston weekend!