Sara & Aaron's Pink & Grey Magnolia Plantation and Gardens wedding by Whimsey Photography by Cana with a casual outdoor ceremony
Charleston Engagement {Takako + Marcus}
My Sunday Funday by the pool took an unexpected turn when it started raining, so until the sun comes back out, I figured we could all enjoy a little Lowcountry loveliness :) This sweet duo has a global love story that ends with a beautiful Charleston wedding. Their talented photographer, Lori Lee Photography tells the story best! "Marcus is a MSGT in the United States Air Force. Takako, is a registered nurse in Japan. How did they meet you may ask? Well, the Air Force sent Marcus to Japan for 4 years. Marcus and Takako didn't cross paths until Marcus had received orders to return to the USA and his next duty station which would be in Louisiana. When Takako and Marcus met he knew that he would marry her someday. When they met Myspace was the popular social network, Facebook had not been invented just yet. They said their good byes and were still friends at this time. They kept in touch via Myspace, and phone calls here and there. Takako came to the United States to visit some friends, she contacted Marcus and told him she would be in the US for a few weeks visiting friends and he flew to VA to join Takako for a weekend. The time came for them to say good bye once again and Takako had to return to work in Japan.
A few months later after more courtship via Myspace, yahoo messenger, letters, and phone calls Takako was able to come back to the US to visit Marcus and this visit would prove to be the best one yet. Marcus was planning a proposal. Marcus picked up Takako and took her to dinner where he had it all planned. He waited until they were ready for desert when he got on one knee and asked Takako to marry him. Takako had tears in her eyes and said "YES" Takako had to return to Japan but a few months later she came back to the United States to join Marcus after he came back home to Charleston, SC to pick up Takako and join his family for upcoming I do's. Marcu's family took care of all the wedding plans for him and Takako. Takako arrived for her final time in the United States on April 7, 2012 and their gorgeous engagement session took place in downtown Charleston, SC on April 14, 2012. They were married on April 21, 2012."
Photographer: Lori Lee Photography
White Point Gardens {Kelly}
If Kelly Sauer is involved, then you know you’re about to get your pretty on, and if this isn’t pretty then I just don’t know what else is. The bride, Kelly, is strikingly beautiful, effortlessly gorgeous and such a natural in front of the camera that you can’t stop starring at these images. It was so hard to narrow down my favorites! I can only assume she is any photographer’s dream! With her hair swept off her face, she donned a classic Anne Barge gown that was paired with a matching necklace and earrings. All I can say is Kelly Sauer sure does have a knack for capturing loveliness.
Charleston Wedding Vendors
Photography: Kelly Sauer Ltd. Co. for The Girl in the White Dress / Venue: White Point Gardens, Charleston, S.C. / Dress: Anne Barge, from Solutions Bridal, Orlando, FL / Flowers: Kelly Sauer, Ltd. Co. / Umbrella: Target / Fan: World Market / Hat: Old Navy / Necklace: Dillards / Veil: Solutions Bridal
Intern {Blake}
After the long and enjoyable holiday weekend, we (reluctantly) decided to get back to work this week...even though the beach is still calling our name! What better way to kick off summertime then to meet Miss Blake, who will be joining us this summer as we produce our first ever online publication! As an editorial intern, Blake will put to work her incredible eye for all things stylish as she helps us bring to life our styled shoots, fashion editorial and selects which real weddings will grace our pages. We are so thrilled to welcome Blake to the team and can’t wait to see what Lowcountry flair she adds to our new mag! Y’all say hi to Blake!
Tell us a little about yourself, and by a little, we mean a lot :)
Hi, my name is Blake Bush. I was born and raised on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. I am a true southern girl. Weird fact about me, I don’t like sweet tea. Crazy I know :) I am a recent graduate from College of Charleston. I majored with a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Corporate and Organizational Communication and a Hospitality and Tourism minor. I am an only child. I am a dog lover. In my free time I enjoy spending time at the beach, boat rides, oyster roasts, and bonfires in the winter. I was a cheerleader for 9 years and still enjoy being active whether it’s going for a run, doing yoga, or just taking a nice walk to the battery. I love all types of music and enjoy going to concerts whenever I have the time (and money! hehe). Recently, I have seen Dave Matthews Band, Hootie and the Blowfish, Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers, Slightly Stoopid and so many more. Every summer I go to New Jersey to visit my family. In the future I hope to travel the world, there are so many places and things I want to see.
Let me know if there is anything else you want to know!
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Top 5 All-time favorite TV shows…
- Friends
- Greys Anatomy
- Sex and the City
- Seventh Heaven (an oldie but goodie)
- Gossip Girl
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What are you excited to bring to the table this summer?
Well, I am excited to bring creative new ideas to the blog, help with photo shoots, and develop the new publication! I plan to bring my passion for weddings and enthusiastic energy to the table this summer. I am ready to get started and see what A Lowcountry Wedding is all about!
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Must have Lowcountry wedding detail…
Shrimp and grits, it’s a crowd pleaser!
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What's your favorite part of wedding planning...
My favorite thing about weddings is being able to watch the entire event unfold. From the dreams and inspirations, to the tiny little details, and then seeing it all come together.
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It's Friday and you just cashed your paycheck..
what’s your first splurge? Clothes! I am a huge shopaholic, just ask my friends! :)
If I were a major league baseball player, my ‘at-bat’ song would be….”
Carolina Girls”
Hometown: Hilton Head Island, SC
College/Major: College of Charleston/Communication
Favorite item of clothing…
That’s a hard one but I would have to say my white pants. They are my go-to in the summer and every girls necessity.
Favorite summer beverage: Seabreeze
Current favorite color palette: I go back and forth all the time but right now it’s mint, navy, and crisp white (with a hint of gold).
Favorite Quote:
This is a hard one because there are so many quotes I go to for different situations and times in my life. One that always applies..“Enjoy the little things in life, for one day you will look back and realize they were the big things.”
Welcome to the team, Blake!
Old Wide Awake Plantation Wedding {Amy + Carson}
Amy + Carson both grew up in the Charleston area, Summerville to be exact, so when planning their big Southern bash, they drew inspiration from the Lowcountry to spice up their Old Wide Awake Plantation wedding. They incorporated navy and white for a nautical twist and then added pops of preppy pink. One of the couple's favorite details was arranging their ceremony chairs in a circle around the bride and groom. It was a symbolic way to unite their families and everyone coming together for their big day! Thanks to Mell Bell of Richard Bell Photography for capturing this beautiful Charleston wedding!
Photographer: Richard Bell Photography / Venue: Old Wide Awake Plantation
Charleston Engagement {Steve + Jess}
When Sara Bee Photography sent over Jess + Steve’s engagement session, it was an immediate, ‘Yup, these are going up!’ Not only is the photography beautiful and the Charleston backdrop perfect, but these two are freaking adorable. Rain or shine, they just have the best time together. After hanging out Downtown for a bit, they packed up the show and headed down to Folly Beach with a few meaningful props. Steve was known for chomping on bubblegum as a baby and Jess was notorious for drinking Coke out of her baby bottle. These two are tying the knot this weekend, so leave ‘em some love!
The NotWedding {Vendor Applications}
Just in case you haven't heard, our friends at The NotWedding are heading to Lowcountry in just a few weeks and, lucky for all you Charleston wedding vendors, you can still be involved. That's right...it's the last call for vendor applications! This bridal show alternative in the form of a big, fake wedding is coming to the Rice Mill Building June 13th, and they'd love to hear from any local wedding vendors interested in joining in on all the fun! They especially love hearing about new businesses, so don't be shy! You can find out more and apply online at www.thenotwedding.com/apply.
I actually was lucky enough to recently mix and mingle with the crew of vendors involved in this season's NotWedding Charleston just a few weeks ago, and I'll tell you what...it is one talented group! We munched on delicious Lowcountry cuisine at Rue de Jean from Holy City Hospitality that included oysters, ham biscuits and mac and cheese as Angela Cox captured the entire evening. Can't wait til June!
Downtown Charleston Wedding by Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay
Intern {Sessalee}
So, last week we introduced Kelsey, our new Graphic Design intern, with a big ol' Lowcountry welcome, and this week, we’re hoping you do the same for our new Editorial Intern, Sessalee! Sessalee comes to the table with an eye for style and a passion for design, so it’s no secret that we’re over-the-moon to have her join our team. She’s got some exciting things in store for our Lowcountry brides and promises to bring them mounds of Southern wedding inspiration!
Tell us a little about yourself...and by a little, we mean a lot!
Well, my name is Sessalee and I’m from the small town of Fort Mill, SC. I’m a lover of college football, sweet tea, country music, and Nicholas Sparks’s novels. I hold my family, friends, and two dogs extremely close to my heart. I’ve lived in the beautiful state of South Carolina the majority of my life and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Having lived in the Bluffton/ Hilton Head area my freshman year and conducting research in Charleston, I have really familiarized myself with South Carolina’s lowcountry and what all it has to offer. I’m currently a senior earning a BA in Hospitality Management with a focus in meetings and events at the University of South Carolina [GO GAMECOCKS!!]. I’ve always had an eye for design and never knew what I wanted to do with it. After taking an event planning course at the university, I found my niche. I’ve grown a passion for creating events, weddings being my favorite! I look forward to working alongside Mrs. Erin Whitsitt to further my experience and share the same love for the beautiful lowcountry. I’m excited for this journey and can’t wait to see where it takes me.
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Top Five All-time favorite TV Shows…
- The classic, “I Love Lucy”, is my top favorite TV show of all time. Lucy and Ricky always find a way to make any day better right before bed!
- “Say Yes to the Dress” is my obsession on TLC. Seeing brides pick out their perfect wedding dress always gets me emotional and excited all at once! I also love getting to see all the new style of dresses that come out!
- “Pretty Little Liars” is my favorite series to watch because it offers a taste of romance and mystery. It’s one of those shows that stay on my DVR so I can watch it over and over again!
- “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills/ Atlanta/ Orange County” is my taste of weekly reality TV. I must say I love watching the drama unfold in these women’s lives.
- “Big Bang Theory” is a favorite of mine and always gives me a great laugh!
What are you excited to bring to the table this summer...
I am excited to bring to A Lowcountry Wedding my love for design and tasteful ideas to make any wedding unique and perfect! With an eye for detail, I will provide brides who are soon to “tie the knot” with all the helpful tips to make their day special and memorable! I’ve always wanted to have the opportunity to enhance my skills and knowledge in doing something I feel that I’ve been made to do. Creating blogs and shoots for this new magazine that features the best of lowcountry weddings is right up my alley! I’m so thankful for this opportunity and can’t wait to get started!
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What’s your favorite thing about weddings...
My favorite thing about weddings would have to be the venue and the overall design of the reception area. I believe that the colors and design elements at any wedding adds to the excitement and beauty of someone’s perfect day.
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It’s Friday and you just cashed your paycheck….what’s your first splurge?
Pedicures are my way of relaxing and rewarding myself after a long week of school and work. I think every girl deserves to be pampered, therefore why not splurge on a pedicure? I make sure to go to Starbucks after to get my favorite raspberry iced tea.
If you were a major league baseball player, what would be your ‘at-bat’ song?
Darius Rucker’s version of Wagon Wheel is my favorite song to jam out to wherever I’m at, so I would have to choose that as my ‘at-bat’ song.
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Hometown
I’m originally from Tampa, FL but I was raised my whole life in a small suburb outside of Charlotte called Fort Mill, SC. Fort Mill offers a small town feel with a little bit of city life being so close to Charlotte.
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College/Major
Hospitality Management Major, Meeting and Events focus
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Favorite Item of Clothing
My favorite clothing item would have to be my brown wedges. They can be the perfect accent to dress up any outfit. Not to mention they’re easy to walk in which is always a plus!
Favorite Summer beverage
My favorite summer beverage would definitely have to be a mojito, raspberry being my favorite! Mojitos in my opinion are the perfect summer drink because they are so flavorful and refreshing! I’m a sucker for any fruity cocktail.
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Current favorite color palette
EMERALD is by far my new favorite color palette! It can be paired perfectly with rich purples, bold blues, and stunning gold accents to create beautiful and exotic features. I assume my fascination with peacocks had a lot to do with this new favorite of mine.
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Favorite Quote
“Once we believe in ourselves, we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight, or any experience that reveals the human spirit.”
E.E. Cummings
Lowndes Grove Wedding {Anne + Justin}
If Anne + Justin's Lowndes Grove wedding isn't the quintessential, beautiful Lowcountry bash on the coast, then I don't know what is. The sweet duo who hail from Virginia selected Charleston and a crazy, talented group of vendors to pull off their perfect destination affair. The ring leader, Chelsye Harp of Intrigue Design & Events, teamed up with Violet Floral Design to create a dreamy Carolina evening that is bound to have you pinning away! You'll love all the gorgeous details, lovely bridesmaids attire, romantic flowers, customize cornhole board...oh, the list goes on and on! Thanks to Riverland Studios for this one-of-a-kind treat!
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Photographer: Riverland Studios / Event Planner: Intrigue Design & Events / Floral Designer: Violet Charleston / Musicians: Classical Charleston / Reception Venue: Lowndes Grove Plantation / Cake Designer: d'lish / DJ: Creative Sound Weddings / Makeup Artist: Moore Make Up / Transportation: Absolutely Charleston
Intern {Kelsey}
There’s been a whole lotta awesome-ness taking place at A Lowcountry Wedding the past few weeks, and with the help of Miss Kelsey, things will just keep getting better! Kelsey is joining the ALW crew this summer as our graphic design intern and we couldn’t be more excited to have her. She’s been tasked with the huge responsibility of designing/creating our brand, new online publication and I’ve got a feeling you’ll be blown away by what she’s got in store for us. So, give Kelsey a big ol’ Lowcountry welcome!
Tell us a little bit about yourself…and by a little, we mean a lot
Where do I begin? [Laughs…] Well, my name is Kelsey and I'm a glass half-full kind of girl. Ever since I could remember I've loved to draw. Once I learned that I could express myself that way, I’ve never stopped. I love romantic comedies, and I live on 90's music. I was born on February 7, 1991 in Riverside, California to military parents Chris and Ena, with one older sister, Erin. During many years, my family and I were given the opportunity to live in the states of Hawaii and California. In 2006, my parents retired and settled down in the beautiful state of Columbia, South Carolina. In high school, I was undecided about what I wanted to do until one day, during my senior of high school, I stumbled upon an ad in the Seventeen Magazine. It read: If you're interested in a creative career, The Art Institute of Charleston is just ahead. Soon after, I applied for the Graphic Design program and was accepted in 2009. That's where I was further introduced to the design industry where I learned the importance of networking and creative problem solving. In 2012, I presented my portfolio as a graduate. I am now living the next chapter of my life and believe the BEST has yet to come!
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Top Five All-time favorite TV Shows…
1) Frasier
2) Cake Boss
3) Mysteries at the Museum
4 )Four Weddings
5 )Man Vs. Food
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What are you excited to bring to the table this summer?
Vision. I hope to contribute with what makes A Lowcountry Wedding truly lowcountry. I am very thrilled to be a part of the team and to work beside the lovely Mrs. Erin Whitsitt.
What’s your favorite thing about weddings
The intimate moment when the bride and groom say "I do." The venue and decor and how wonderfully different and personal they are!
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It’s Friday and you just cashed your paycheck….what’s your first splurge?
Nothing starts off a great day at the mall than some good ol' iced coffee! It's the little things in life…
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If you were a major league baseball player, what would be your ‘at-bat’ song?
"We Are The Champions" by Queen
Hometown
Ewa Beach, Hawaii
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College/Major
BA in Fine Arts of Graphic Design
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Favorite Item of Clothing
My favorite article of clothing is typically a blouse shirt. They’re versatile, and ladylike. You can dress them up or down.
Favorite Summer beverage
Without a doubt in my mind, it has to be raspberry ice tea.
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Current favorite color palette
Anything that has cool blues and tans; I love the natural colors of the beach.
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Favorite Quote
"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are." -E. E. Cummings
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Welcome aboard, Kelsey! We're so thrilled to have you!
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Charleston Event {Sandals Travel Night}
If you're in the market for an all-inclusive honeymoon, then look no further! Our friends at Destination Wedding Experts are hosting an event you won't want to miss. On Tuesday, June 25th, they'll be hosting a Sandals Resorts Romance Night in Charleston, and our Lowcountry Brides are welcome to attend! With 13 properties situated on 4 Caribbean islands, and each resort offering an entirely different honeymoon experience, you'll have the opportunity to determine which property is the best fit for you...and maybe enjoy a few adult beverages and tasty apps while you're at it! Space is limited, so call 843.458.5753 to reserve your seat!
Magnolia Plantation Vow Renewal by Reese Moore
Boone Hall Plantation {Tiffany + Jim}
Y’all, after much anticipation, it’s finally Friday! I’m not sure what’s been with this crazy, busy month of May, but I can promise you I will definitely be welcoming the weekend come 5 o’clock. There is a glass, or 4, of wine in my future! As you may have heard, we’ve just brought on a crew of talented new interns who are ready bring the lovely to our Lowcountry brides this summer. To say I’m excited to have these girls on staff is quite the understatement. With their help, we’ll be hand-selecting some of the finest weddings from the Carolina coast to show off to our favorite Lowcountry ladies! More details to come next week, but if you’re interested in submitting, send ‘em on over to hello{at}alowcountrywed.com.
When you’re in the market for a Southern wedding venue, it’s hard to deny what Boone Hall Plantation has to offer. Right outside of Charleston, South Carolina in beautiful Mount Pleasant, you’ll find a sprawling plantation dripping in Old World beauty. There’s cotton fields and magnificent Oak trees, picturesque views of the marsh and lush gardens,all of which are immersed in the rich history of the Lowcountry. Perfect, right? Well, it’s no secret that brides and grooms flock to the romantic setting for, not only their wedding day, but also to snap a few pre-wedding day engagement shots. Our talented friend Priscilla Thomas Photography recently met up with the adorable Tiffany + Jim as they took in the sights and enjoyed the afternoon at the historic plantation. Happy Friday!
Legare Waring House Wedding {Jodi + Brian}
Wined + Designed {Stationery Workshop}
We wanted to give our Lowcountry brides one last reminder that our friend Lindsay of Wined & Designed is heading back to Charleston next week! In case you didn't catch our tweets, Wined & Designed is blessing our Charleston ladies with a Stationery Trunk Show that you won't want to miss. Who wouldn't want to talk wedding stationery, munch on snacks and drink wine. Heaven. On. Earth. For additional details contact Lindsay at lindsay{at}winedanddesigned.com!
Creek Club at I'On Wedding {Virginia + Jonathan}
Coming off a dreary weekend in the Lowcountry, I figured we all could use a little Charleston wedding pick-me-up, eh? This beautiful Creek Club at I’On wedding comes to us straight from ALW Bride Virginia, and it is filled to the brim with lovely DIY details. The adorable couple tied the knot in an intimate, outdoor ceremony under the trees. Virginia stunned in a strapless gown and hand-painted TOMS, while her maids rocked blush-toned dresses and cowboy boots! Virginia + Jonathan enlisted the services of Carter’s Kitchen to treat their guests to a delicious menu of upscale Southern cuisine, while the crew at Cupcake presented their sugary creations. Thanks to Peter Finger Photography for capturing all the details and congrats to the newlyweds!
Photographer: Peter Finger Photography / Venue: Creek Club at I'On / Caterer: Carter's Kitchen / Cupcakes: Cupcake / Gown: Gown Boutique of Charleston / Florist: Pretty Petals / Photobooth: Shutterbooth / Ceremony Musicians: Classical Charleston / Rentals: Snyder Event Rentals / Cake Topper: Life is But a Dream / Hair: Paloosh / Bridal Shoes: DearAliceNicole
Charleston Engagement {Kellie + Nick}
If there's one thing I love about Fia Forever Photography, it's how they always bring a little sass and loads of glamour to our beautiful Lowcountry couples. Their heartfelt approach mixed with their eye for a fabulous editorial takes Charleston wedding photography to a whole new level...and it doesn't hurt to have a good lookin' couple like Kellie + Nick to photograph! I'm fairly confident they both might be models :) Happy Friday, y'all!
Photographer: Fia Forever Photography
Kelsi & Chad's Charleston Engagement by Riverland Studios
Charleston Wedding Vendor {Brackish Bow Ties}
A few weeks ago, I made my way to Charleston Fashion Week's Spring Bridal Show, which was, as I’m sure you could guess, over-the-top and fabulous. Not only were the gowns amazing, but upon arrival, I was greeted by a group of talented Charleston wedding vendors, one of my personal favorites were the boys of Brackish Bow Ties!
These two gents, Jeff + Ben, are the brains behind Brackish Bow Ties. When Ben was tying the knot, he designed the first turkey feather bow ties for his groomsmen to sport on his wedding day. Naturally, they were a huge success!
Based in Charleston, South Carolina, these Lowcountry beauties are perfect for the Southern outdoorsman in your life. The crew at Brackish Bow Ties handpicks each and every feather, so no two bow ties are exactly alike.
The craftsman ship doesn't stop at the tie itself, each work-of-art comes wrapped in burlap in its very own hand-branded wooden storage box to make preservation easy.
Images via Bette Walker Photography
Currently, you have your choice of 4 different styles,
but more are being dreamed up everyday!
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You can touch base with these Southern gentleman at:
email: info@brackishbowties.com
phone : 843.276.0075