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 Wedding {Katy + Jason}

Ashley of Live. Laugh. PHOTOGRAPH sent over this perfectly charming Southern wedding, complete with cowboys boots and live country music...Texas style!  The couple, Katy + Jason, were wed June 11, 2011 just outside of Dallas at Loma Linda in beautiful Rockett, Texas.  Doesn't Katy just look flawless in her strapless gown, pearls and cowboy boots?  I love it.  The rustic venue allowed for a touching outdoor ceremony under the trees.  After, the guest made their way to the reception where the dined on Randy's BBQ's signature cuisine and later indulged in their choice of two fabulous desserts by Dallas Affaires Cake Co.  To top of the evening, the guests danced the night away to the tunes of Chad McBride and The Drifters. 

All in all, I'd have to say it was a perfect Texas Wedding...

Images via Two Bright Lights

vendor recap

photographer: live. laugh. PHOTOGRAPH   /  cake designer: dallas affaires cake co.  /  band: chad mcbride & the drifters  /  ceremony & reception venue: loma linda  /  caterer: randy's bbq  / 

Hair {Lowcountry Wedding Style}

I would have to say our Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach brides know how to do wedding hair right.   They work with some of the Lowcountry's fabulous hairstylists to create soft, sophisticated wedding do's that have knack for looking perfectly effortless and timeless.  So if you're in need of some inspiration, check out A Lowcountry Wedding's favorite Wedding Day Hair Styles...

Jennifer + Jonathan {Southern Engagement}

Even though I have always been a fan of their old school bottling, I'm slightly ashamed to admit that I've never, EVER, tasted the inherently Southern concoction, Cheerwine.  Somewhere along the way my Southern upbringing seemed to miss that one which I think is only fair to blame on my parents' Midwestern roots.  Unlike yours truly, today's outdoorsy couple, Jennifer + Jonathan, have had many-a Cheerwine. 

The couple both hail from Salisbury, North Carolina (Cheerwine's birthplace) and decided to combine their love of their hometown, Cheerwine and canoeing in this gorgeous rustic engagement session.  Thanks  to our friends at Connection Photography, Joseph and Andrea, for sharing!

Lowcountry Weddings {Catering}

Is it just me or does mini food taste better?  Bite sized hors d'Oeuvres are the perfect sized morsel to serve your guests during cocktail hour.  They'll leave your guests with a taste of Lowcountry cuisine and have them begging for more by the time the main course rolls around.   We've rounded up some of our favorite appetizers to kick off your wedding reception and even a few late night snacks.  Jazz up your menu by adding a few of these options and your guests will be raving about it for years to come!

Stevie + Trevor {Southern Wedding}

I can't wait for you guys to check out these vivid images the talented Evan of Purus Wedding Studios recently sent over.  The loving couple, Stevie + Trevor, wed this past Memorial Day Weekend in Luling, Texas (right outside of Austin) at the picturesque Hillview Ranch.  The combination of their rustic color palette, her stunning Alfred Angelo gown and perfect Summer light made for a day of enviable wedding photos.  I just can't properly put into words how beautiful all of these shots are, particularly the ones of Stevie + Trevor surrounded by the gorgeous Texas landscape as the sun begins to set.   Enjoy...

Images via Two Bright Lights

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: purus wedding studios  / gown: alfred angelo /  reception venue: hillview ranch   

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...

Southern Wedding {Kate + Scott} Part II

If you missed Part I this morning, let me fill you in...Kate + Scott were wed on May 28, 2011 at the beautiful St. Patrick's Catholic Church followed by a perfectly Southern reception at Richwood Plantation in Milton, Kentucky.  While the men donned grey tuxes, the girls sported navy bridesmaids dresses accented with beautiful purple and white bouquets by In Bloom Again.   Oh, and my favorite part...the picture of Scott's impressive headstand and Kate's backhand spring, mind you! That would have ended in two faceplants if my husband and I would have attempted that!

Special thanks to Josh from Sunlit Images for sharing this sweet Kentucky Wedding!

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: sunlit images  / floral designer: in bloom again /  reception venue: richwood plantation   /  cake designer: mert's cakes / hair + makeup: blush on main /

Southern Wedding {Kate + Scott}

I'm in love.  Josh from Sunlit Images recently sent over Kate + Scott's sweet Kentucky Wedding and I could barely contain my excitement...and, actually, I may have gone a little overboard.  I love when photographers take advantage of the outdoor natural light and Josh did just that on this perfect Kentucky Day.  Sunlit Images captured so many darling shots of precious Kate and her handsome groom that I just HAD to turn it into a Two Part-er!  The couple were wed on May 28, 2011 at the beautiful St. Patrick's Catholic Church followed by a perfectly Southern reception at Richwood Plantation in Milton, Kentucky.  While the men donned grey tuxes, the girls sported navy bridesmaids dresses accented with beautiful purple and white bouquets by In Bloom Again.

Check back later this afternoon for Part II!

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: sunlit images  / floral designer: in bloom again /  reception venue: richwood plantation   /  cake designer: mert's cakes / hair + makeup: blush on main /

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!

Southern Wedding {Heidi + Aaron}

Recently, Raleigh photographer Carolyn Scott sent over Heidi + Aaron's April nuptials and I just couldn't wait to post this charming Spring wedding.  The couple said 'I do' at the Raleigh Rose Garden and couldn't have selected a more beautiful ceremony location.  With the gardens in full bloom, Kellie looked stunning in her strapless gown accessorized with a sweet birdcage veil, while the maids donned apple green dresses that perfectly complimented this springtime affair.  From there, they moved the party to lovely Sheraton Raleigh Hotel where they enjoyed the rest of the evening surrounded by the Raleigh skyline. 

The groom's mother and uncle were dealt the colossal task of arranging the bouquets and flower arrangements after a storm in the South delayed the shipment of the wedding flowers..I think they did a fabulous job!

Carolyn captured the happy couple perfectly throughout the day with refreshing, vivid images.  Check out her informative blog post on the big day.  She gives great tips on location selections and the best time of day to take pictures.

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: carolyn scott photography  / ceremony venue: raleigh rose garden /  reception venue: sheraton raleigh hotel   /  music: paul fitts /

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 Wedding {Cakes}

I love how wedding cakes are the focal point of a reception.  It's like they're that final piece that ties everything together and I've been running across some truly beautiful ones recently and I just had to share with my favorite Lowcountry brides.  The South Carolina coast is home to some of the most-sought after cake designers in the country and we're glad they choose to bless Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach weddings with their masterful creations.  There are some that are classic, some that are fascinatingly intricate and a few I've never seen before....Enjoy!

Erika + Sean {Fantasy of Flight Museum}

Hope everyone had a nice relaxing weekend!  We wanted to kick off the week with Erika + Sean's All American engagement session.  Since both the bride and groom are currently in the military for aviation, the Fantasy of Flight Museum in Polk City, Florida was the perfect spot for Fishy Face Studios to capture the sweet couple with these rare, vintage aircrafts.

The jumper the groom is sporting is Erika's father's old military attire. 

To view more images, check out Fishy Face Studios' blog here.

Fishy Face Studios is husband/wife team located in Central Florida

but available for destination weddings across the country. 

fishyfacestudios@gmail.com

Follow them on Facebook!

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

Charleston Wedding {Puppy Attire}

I'm a sucker for any wedding that includes a dog.  After seeing all of these keepsake images of a bride with her dog(s), I kinda regret not having my little pup, Huckleberry, around the day of our wedding.  It was probably for the best since I'm sure he would have misbehaved (he's a jumper AND a licker).  I know some people think it's strange to dress up dogs but don't tell me you don't like it when they sport their formal attire.  We've rounded up quite a few wedding day pooches and dressed in their Sunday best and even provide our favorite place to find their perfect accessories!  I do love seeing a Lowcountry pooch in a bowtie!

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silly buddy...

Thanks to Charleston bride-to-be Jen, I found this awesome Etsy Shop, Silly Buddy.  Based out of Chicago, Silly Buddy provides a wide array of collars, leashes and bowties!  Check out the website to see sweet Buddy himself model the large variety of sizes, colors and patterns.   How precious is Buddy? Such a stud.

   

Follow Silly Buddy on Facebook and Twitter!

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!