Lowcountry Weddings {Specialty Drinks}

I'm a big fan of specialty drinks.  If done right, they're the perfect welcome to your reception, especially on a hot, Lowcountry evening.  The key is to find an appealing beverage that both women and men can enjoy but also something that won't scare off who usually aren't big drinkers.  Go for a cool drink with a little color (not to matchy-matchy) and something that is easy to produce in large quantities.  Take a look at some of our favorite Lowcountry concoctions from Charleston and Hilton Head and all the way to Myrtle Beach...

For those that may want to skip the alcohol, try one of these oh-so refreshing bevs...

Happy 4th of July!

A Lowcountry Wedding and this awesome guy want to wish you and your family a happy and safe Fourth of July!  Whether you're spending the weekend in Hilton Head, Charleston or Myrtle Beach, enjoy the water, have a fruitty beverage (or two!) and stay safe.  We'll see yall on Tuesday!

Shauna + Jeremy {Picnic Engagement}

In honor of the upcoming Fourth of July weekend here in Charleston, we wanted to share Shauna + Jeremy's picnic-inspired wedding engagement session.  The couple's love for ice cream (join the club!) and the perfect Ohio Summer day made for these beautiful vintage images by Connection Photography.  This shoot is pouring with flawless details.  From the red and white picnic cloth, the fitting book titles,  scrumptious cupcakes and oh-so perfect sunlight, this session captures Shauna + Jeremy's timeless love for each other.  Oh, and I just can't get enough of the over-sized letters in the field... precious.

Special thanks to Joseph of Connections Photography for sending these over!  Best of luck to the happy couple for a wonderful marriage and stress-free engagement!

Part II: Lowcountry Plantations

  In our effort to better assist Charleston brides in choosing the perfect vendors and venues for their big day, we've started rounding up a list of the local  Lowcountry Plantations (see Part I here).   This week we're highlighting properties from Pawleys Island down to Yemassee...a few that even date back to pre-Civil War days.

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens

Situated on the banks of the Ashley River, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens offers three beautiful venue options, as well as, two sites for outdoor ceremonies and multiple spots to tent.  The different locations welcome parties ranging in size from 50-400 guests.  With an array of flowers in bloom every season, the Gardens  provide a breathtaking backdrop for a picture perfect wedding day

Magnolia Plantation & Gardens 3550 Ashley River Road

Charleston, Sc 29414

843.277.0167

Jessica Cruz - Event Sales Manager

events@magnoliaplantation.com

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Litchfield Plantation

 If you are looking for a venue that can provide the quintessential Lowcountry cuisine, a healthy dose of Southern hospitality and grounds lined with majestic live oak trees, Pawleys Island's Litchfield Plantation is calling your name.  Dating back to the 1750's, this coastal rice plantation sits on 650 beautiful Lowcountry acres which lends itself to gorgeous images and a relaxed environment.

Litchfield Plantation

24 Avenue of the Oaks

Pawleys Island, SC 29585

843.543.3146

Terry Belanger - Sales Manager

admin@litchfieldplantation.net

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Turkey Hill Plantation

This family-owned 5th-generation plantation, is widely known as a "sportsman's paradise".  Nestled deep in the Lowcountry, Turkey Hill Plantation and the surrounding area are entrenched with American history from Revolutionary War to Civil War and even lending a hand in WWII.  With its luscious scenery and versatile venues, this secluded plantation makes for a stunning backdrop.

Turkey Hill Plantation

2215 Long Haul Road

Ridgeland, SC 29936

 Courtney Smith - Hospitality Directory

courtney@turkeyhillplantation.com

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Richfield Plantation

Built in 1875, Richfield Plantation has been immaculately restored by the great-great-grandsons of original owner, John White Gregorie.  Located in Yemassee, South Carolina, the large oaks make for a beautiful, laid back scene and help to keep the grounds cool even on a hot summer day.

Richfield Plantation

25481 Pocotaligo Road

Yemassee, SC 29945

843.200.5065

Gail Lane - Sales

info@richfieldevents.com

Around the Blogs

After a featuring some gorgeous Charleston weddings this week, we are looking forward to a beautiful weekend here in the Lowcountry.  Take a look at some of our favorite posts on our weekly blog round-up...

Todd and Cyndi's gorg wedding via Love and Lavendar.   Loving the bridal party's attire and this soft color palette.  Check out more here.

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Over on Ruffled, this inspiration shoot was featured full of homegrown wedding ideas.  I can't get enough of these rustic paper goods by Magpie Paper Works.  They would be perfect for a Hilton Head wedding, don't ya think?

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Our friends over at One Stylish Bride featured Beth and Dan's Australian Peacock Farm wedding.  I love the girls' brightly colored dresses and the guys' casual but stylish attire...perfect for a coastal, Myrtle Beach wedding!  Besides being gorgeous, this wedding seemed so effortlessly cool.

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I'm a big fan of this preppy, coastal inspiration board I ran across on Postcards & Pretties.   It's all about the stripes!

Lowcountry Weddings {Charleston Wedding Weekend Venues}

We've been getting loads of questions from Lowcountry brides-to-be asking for local venue recommendations, not only for their ceremony and reception (check out last week's post on Lowcountry Plantations), but also for different properties that can accommodate your wedding weekend events (think bridal luncheons, rehearsal dinners, the post-wedding Bon Voyage brunch...oh, and let's not forget showers and engagement parties).  So, to better assist our Lowcountry ladies, we'll be posting weekly on different venues around town...

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We're going to kick off this series by highlighting our friends over at Maverick Southern Kitchens who, in addition to the restaurants we'll highlight below, are the brains behind Charleston Cooks! and Slightly North of Broad, which is lovingly referred to as S..N.O.B. The team at Maverick's pairs high-end food with Lowcountry charm for a one-of-a-kind Charleston wedding celebration.

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Old Village Post House

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Located just over the Cooper River Bridge, in the cozy Old Village of Mt. Pleasant, the Post House prides itself on being "As comfortable as your best friend's home."  Pair that feeling with flavorful food, a great cocktail and Southern hospitality and you're bound to have a memorable Lowcountry affair.  With two separate dining areas, ranging in capacity from 20-75, and a relaxing courtyard area, the Post House can accommodate any of your Charleston wedding weekend venue needs with style.

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101 Pitt Street

Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

(843) 388-8935

kschebil@mavericksouthernkitchens.com

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High Cotton

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Maverick's second gem, High Cotton, is found in the heart of Charleston, off East Bay Street, and is known for its distinctive cuisine, impeccable decor and remarkable wine list.  Its ability to show guests what Charleston dining is all about doesn't hurt either.  With three stunning dining rooms ranging in capacity from 32-150, High Cotton is sure to provide your Charleston wedding guests with a truly sophisticated Lowcountry experience.  

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199 East Bay Street

Charleston, SC 29401

(843) 724-3815

jstjohn@mavericksouthernkitchens.com

Charleston Weddings {Lula Kate Sample Sale}

This Thursday through Saturday (June 23-25th), LulaKate is having a sample sale...and if you've never been to their sample sale you need to take note of this one.  They'll be marking down all of their gorgeous, slightly worn samples.  We're talking discounts over 75% OFF. 

The discounted frocks include a selection of past and present styles and maybe even a wedding gown, or two! 

LulaKate offers a variety of stunning bridesmaids dresses that come in any shade you can imagine and will flatter every body shape.  You should also keep in mind that LulaKate designs can also double as your rehearsal dinner or getaway attire (I donned the Maggie for my pre-wedding day affair)...they're the perfect cocktail dress.   Not only has LulaKate mastered the bridesmaid dress but now they've ventured into bridal gowns, as well.  Much like their bridesmaid dresses, their high quality, stylish gowns have great shape...perfect for a Charleston wedding.

Don't miss this! For real!

  No appointment necessary.

June 23rd- 25th

10am- 6pm

324 King Street

Charleston SC 29401

Aqua + Red {Wedding Details}

While I'm usually not a huge fan of the color red, even though I will rock it all football season long (Go Dawgs!), I almost died when I found this darling little frock while perusing the internet the other day.  I love it.  The print, pattern...everything.  It's so vibrant and cheery which is exactly why this fun red and aqua color palette is always a huge hit at a big Charleston wedding!  Check out our round up of our favorite red + aqua wedding details...which one's your fav?

Images via Design Seeds, Pintrest, Brooklyn Cake, Katie's Kitchen, Paula's Palace

Images via Jonathan Canlas, The Inspired Bride, Skonahem, Oh, So Beautiful Paper, Green Wedding Shoes

Part I: Lowcountry Plantations

We've received numerous emails and tweets from newly engaged brides asking for our recommendations for local, Lowcountry plantations.  From Hilton Head to Charleston and  up to Myrtle Beach, we're blessed with a wealth unforgettable wedding venues.  So to assist our darling brides in the wedding venue selection process, we'll be compiling a list and highlighting a handful of properties on a weekly basis until the round up is complete!  Let's get started...

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Middleton Place

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Built in 1755, this picturesque estate is the perfect backdrop to include in your wedding weekend. Sitting on 65-acres of immaculately landscaped gardens, Middleton Place offers multiple venue options, luscious scenery and a glimpse into Lowcountry history.

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Middleton Place

4300 Ashley River Road

Charleston, SC 29414

843.556.6020

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Rose Hill Mansion

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Tucked away, deep in the Lowcountry, construction on the Rose Hill Mansion dates back to pre-Civil War days.  Located in Bluffton, South Carolina (just outside of Hilton Head), this charming Gothic Revival home combines an abundance of live oaks dripping with Spanish moss to provide a breathtaking site for  one-of-a-kind wedding ceremonies and receptions.

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Rose Hill Mansion

199 Rose Hill Way

Bluffton, South Carolina

843.757.6046

robinwhite@hargray.com

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Charleston Tea Plantation

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In the heart of our beloved Lowcountry, on South Carolina's own Wadmalaw Island, you will find the home of America's only Tea Plantation.  With it's enchanting atmosphere and tranquil setting, the fields, front porch and "wedding tree" of Charleston Tea Plantation can accommodate groups of all size for a magical Charleston wedding evening.

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Charleston Tea Plantation

6617 Maybank Highway

Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina 29487

843.559.0383

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For Wedding information contact:

 Jane Knight

 843.559.0383 Ext. 207

jknight@rcbigelow.com

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Old Wide Awake Plantation

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Nestled near the Stono River, this inviting wedding venue lends itself to a relaxing evening in the Lowcountry.  With rolling hills, polo fields, spacious porch and live oaks, Charleston's Old Wide Awake Plantation allows for a variety of on-site ceremony options and a memorable reception.

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Old Wide Awake Plantation

5149 Trexlor Avenue

Hollywood, SC 29449

843.577.7129 Dennis Jarvis info@oldwideawakeplantation.com

Maddison Row + Heidi Elnora {Charleston Weddings}

As downtown's premiere bridal salon, Maddison Row offers Lowcountry brides a sophisticated experience complete with first-class service, top designers, timeless gowns and polka dots...lots of polka dots!   Located in the heart of the new design district, this quaint boutique is a must-see for any bride-to-be.

So, needless to say when we heard last week that Maddison Row will be hosting a Heidi Elnora trunk show on June 17th and 18th, we thought it sounded like a match made in Lowcountry Heaven.  Not only will Charleston brides have the opportunity to check out the new 2011 Heidi Elnora collection (see below), but they'll also have the opportunity to meet the sweet designer herself.

                       

We caught a glimpse of Heidi's designs this spring when she was the featured designer at Charleston Fashion Week's Bridal Show and we've been patiently waiting for her return to Charleston ever since!  Her 2011 collection provides Southern Belles with dreamy, feminine gowns complete with that Lowcountry ease...

All images by Leslee Mitchell

For more information check out Maddison Row's blog or contact them directly below:

171 Spring Street Charleston, SC 29403

(843) 720.7979info@maddisonrow.com

www.maddisonrow.com

Hailey + Justin {Charleston Engagement}

I was planning on posting this next week but since Hailey is currently in Charleston taking care of some wedding details and nailing down some vendors, I thought today would be more appropriate.  Hailey and Justin are getting married next April and have booked the talented Stephen Blackmon to document their wedding day.  Recently, the fun lovin' couple met up with Stephen as he captured their sweet smiles on a picture perfect day...

Thanks for sharing.  Hope the planning goes well this week!

Charleston Weddings {Pretzel Station}

It might have a little bit to do with my past experience in catering but my favorite part of a wedding is ALWAYS the food.  How I see it, a Charleston wedding can be absolutely exquisite but if the food is blah or just flat out bad that will be the only thing guests take away from the evening.  On the other hand, if the food is out-of-this-world and they can experience items differently, either by presentation or taste, I can promise they will be raving about your big day for years to come.  I always love dreaming up menus that put a fun twist on an old favorite, so recently when I was snacking on a soft pretzel at a USC baseball game, it hit me...I love pretzels (of all shapes, sizes and flavors!) and I'd die for a late night pretzel station.  This is what I'm thinking...

Pretzel bites or miniature pretzels served warm in a variety of flavors like: original (all nice and buttered up!) cinnamon sugar, garlic or even stuffed like a little pizza with pepperoni and mozzarella.  For sauces: mustard, marinara, cheese and chocolate.  Present them in cute baskets (below) and have cups or pretzel bags available (that you can coordinate with your wedding colors) to allow guests to move freely around while snackin' and dippin'!

Most importantly, don't forget include some chocolate covered pretzels!

Spotlight: Carol Hannah

Ever since her stint on Season 6 of Project Runway, fan favorite Carol Hannah has been focusing her talents on designing classic, feminine gowns for brides' and their bridal parties'.  But Charleston holds a special place in our hearts for this South Carolinian because her designs bring that Southern grace and charm that every Lowcountry belle is looking for in her gown.  Not only are her dresses a hit at any Charleston wedding, but they've graced brides throughout the country.  From the coast to the big city, every woman can appreciate a charming Carol Hannah design.

This gorgeous wedding took place at a signature Lowcountry venue, Lowndes Grove, where the bride and her maids donned Carol Hannah originals.  Love. It.

Recently, she showcased her 2012 Spring/Summer Collection in New York City and it did not disappoint.  Her whimsical gowns are filled with so much movement.  They look like they floated right across the runway...

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for the 'maids...

All images by Gayle Brooker Photography

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for the bride...

 

 

All images by Gayle Brooker Photography

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charleston fashion week...

Carol Hannah also graced us with her presence at this year's Charleston Fashion Week's Bridal Show and wowed us with this stunner...

Image via The Connelly's

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don't you just loooove it?!?

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You can find Carol Hannah's designs right here in town...

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Maddison Row                                             Bella Bridesmaid

   171 Spring Street                                      341 King Street, Suite C

Charleston, SC 29403                                 Charleston, SC 29401

843.720.7979                                                 843.425.8079

Charleston Hotels: Wedding Group Blocks

You've been planning your dream Charleston wedding for months and have been slowly checking things off your to-do list and it's now time to take care of your guests' accommodation.  As seasoned hospitality professionals, the team at A Lowcountry Wedding is happy to assist in crossing this ‘to-do’ off your list. Our complimentary service is quick, easy and allows you to connect with the Lowcountry’s top hotel partners in Charleston, Savannah, Hilton Head & Myrtle Beach for an effortless experience in reserving your room blocks. Our experience in both the wedding and hotel industries allows us to deliver our couples a seamless process with noticeable savings and reduced stress. Ready to get started, fill out our questionnaire and we’ll touch base with you within 24-48 hours to begin planning hotel room blocks. In the meantime, read up on a few pointers and recommendations below…

Things to take into consideration:

• The best time to begin gathering information on room blocks is about 9 months prior to your wedding. Most hotels are unable to quote rates for a wedding that is more than nine months away. At the same time, keep in mind, it is important not to wait too long because hotels usually only offer a certain number of discounted group rooms.

• To be considered a group block and receive a discounted rate for your guests, you must plan to block 10 rooms per night.

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• Depending on the size of you wedding, consider booking 3 hotels in varying price ranges to accommodate everyone's budget. Make sure at least one property is downtown so out-of-town guests are able to enjoy the sites!

• It's okay to tell the Group Sales Coordinator the price range and amenities (like free breakfast, wi-fi or shuttle service) that are important to you and your guests.

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• If you think some of your guests might arrive early or stay a little longer it might be beneficial for them if you extend the block from Thursday-Monday instead of just Friday and Saturday evening.

• Be prepared to hear higher rates during peak months and especially if you are marrying over a busy Charleston weekend like; Spoleto Festival, SEWE or Citadel/CofC Graduation.

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• Be prepared to sign some sort of group agreement or contract laying out all the terms of the group block and the policies of the property.

• In order to hold the rooms, some hotels will include an attrition clause that will require you to give a credit card number in case some of the rooms are not picked up. In this case, if all of the rooms are not reserved you will be charged.

• It's worth asking for...

  • A Custom Web Page. Larger chain properties (like a Marriott or Hilton) can offer a custom wedding web page that you can send out to your guests. It's like your own little Expedia page with your group rate pre-loaded so guests don't even have to call the hotel itself.

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• A complimentary upgrade or even a room/bridal suite. Some locations will offer a complimentary upgrade/room depending on the amount of rooms your group books.

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When the cut off date will be. The cut-off date is usually 30 days prior. After this date, all remaining rooms will be released back into the hotel's inventory. At that point, your guests will be unable to take advantage of the discounted rate but can still book a room based on availability.

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Work with your Group Sales Coordinator throughout the process to monitor the pick-up over the next few months and determine when and if it is necessary to add more rooms.

When sending out your save-the-dates, be sure to include each properti’s name, phone number, address and website.  If you are getting hitched during the summer months it might be a good idea to include the contact info of a beach house rental property in case your guests are planning to make a long vacation out of it!  Lastly, don't forget to add the information to your wedding website, as well. 

Ready to reserve your room blocks? Shoot us an email at hello (@) alowcountrywed.com to get started.

Middleton Place Bridal Session by Monika Gauthier Photography

Monika Gauthier always does a fabulous job of making our hearts skip-a-beat, and this time she's done it again with Lauren's Lowcountry bridal session.  Bride Lauren is breathtaking in a strapless gown with a soft sweetheart neckline.  Her hair was pulled back into a soft up-do by Lauren Campion, while her makeup was done by Jonny Cosmetics and Jonathan Sherwood.  Pretty Petals designed a beautiful white bouquet to accent one gorgeous bride!

Charleston Wedding Vendors Photographer: Monika Gauthier Photography | Florist: Pretty Petals | Makeup: Jonny Cosmetics, Jonathon Sherwood | Hair: Lauren Campion

Dying to see more Lowcountry Wedding inspiration?

Check out the premier issue of A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine featuring 13 of our favorite coastal celebrations including:

-Christine + Derek’s Elegant Omni Hilton Head Wedding

-Jennifer + Carl’s Grande Dunes Ocean Club Wedding

-Brian + Ashley’s Creek Club at I’On wedding