Lowcountry Weddings {Emotions}

I know everyone loves to see the wedding day details (and who can blame them!), I can swoon over some whimsical Charleston lighting, fall head over heels for a fabulous, Hilton Head floral arrangement and go ga-ga over some dreamy, Myrtle Beach drapes with the best of them...what's not to love.  But do you know what my favorite part of blogging about beautiful Lowcountry weddings is?  Hands down, the raw emotions.  Your wedding day is this crazy mix of happy emotions and since there's a good chance that some of it might feel like a bit of a blur, it's always clutch to have a talented photographer on hand to capture these timeless, special moments.

Fourth of July!

Whether you'll be spending your 4th of July in Hilton Head, Charleston or Myrtle Beach (or somewhere in between!), the crew from A Lowcountry Wedding wants to wish you a happy (and safe!) holiday week/weekend.  I'll be kicking it on Shem Creek tonight, sipping on something cold and watching some fireworks, which means you won't hear from us until Monday.  I know, how will you ever survive, right?  Don't worry, we'll be back at it with a beautiful Charleston wedding to kick off next week....so until then, enjoy the sunshine, this crazy heat, and good times with friends and family.

Charleston Bride {Brittani}

One thing we love to share with our Lowcountry Brides (well, besides stunning, jaw-dropping wedding inspiration, of course!), is tried and true tips straight from our horses, I mean, brides' mouths.  Our gal, Brittani, is back today to give us a few pointers about what she's learned thus far as she navigates her way to her big, Charleston wedding day!

Yay it’s time for another ALW update! Last time I dropped by, I updated the fantastic ALW readers on my DRESS! That was such an unexpectedly exciting part of the process and I actually go for my first fitting in just a few weeks! I cannot WAIT to get back into my beautiful wedding dress, cowboy boots and all!  The last few months since making that big decision have been CRAZY! I have been blown away by how quickly the time has gone, and I’ve learned a lot about wedding planning. Phew! I’d love to share some of the things I’ve learned you probably want to do, and some of the things you probably don’t want to do…

DO:

• Do hire a wedding planner! Ugh, what a mistake it was thinking wedding planners aren’t always necessary. As a wedding photographer, I of all people should know how important it is to have someone running the show. Oops! If I could do-over, that definitely would have been the FIRST vendor I would have hired!

• Do be realistic about what weddings cost. I LOVE weddings, trust me…there’s nothing more exciting and special and exhilarating than a wedding day. BUT, having said that, there is SO much that goes into a wedding. I was the bride that wanted to be able to spend big on the things that were most important to Dustin and I (photography, the venue, and food), and DIY and save as much as possible elsewhere. I’ve learned that’s not really realistic, at least for me and my lifestyle. When you have a full-time job, wedding planning is a whole other full-time job. That’s why planners are so important! There were so many “great big ideas” we had to save money but there’s just no TIME to make these things a reality. Life happens, and you have to be realistic about how much time you can really put aside to manage, create, and plan all of these things that seem so easy to do yourself.

• Do start whatever DIY projects you are doing early. In my mind, August was going to be wide open (the hot summers are usually my slower time work-wise), so I could do sooooo much DIYing then. Wrong. August is already halfway crazy for me. I’ve started tackling some projects now but honestly at the end of the workday, I just want to relax! I know some brides are so into crafting for their weddings and it is their way to relax at the end of the day, but between taking care of my dogs and horses, trying to work out (gotta look good for the big day!), cooking dinner, cleaning, regular household and farm chores…there never seems to be enough time at the end of the day.

DON'T:

• Don’t get too caught up in Pinterest. Used the right way, Pinterest can be such a great tool for planning your wedding and coming up with fun projects. BUT, the trick with Pinterest is to not feel like your wedding has to look like someone elses’s. The whole point of getting really creative with your wedding is to make it a true representation of you and your fiancé and the things that are most special in your relationship. It’s so easy to look at pin after pin and think “that’s perfect!” but you should really start with a list of unique traits or themes you want to include in your wedding and search out inspiration from there. For us, since we were long distance for so long and spent a LOT of time flying and driving, travel is going to be a big theme. We’re also super dedicated to our farm and both grew up with horses, so that’s a big shared passion. We love our dogs like kids, so of course the dogs and being a blended family (Dustin has a 5-year-old son) are also very “us.”

• Maybe this is just me, but if I had to do it again, I would not try DIYing invitations. I work with a really good print lab because of my business, so I totally thought I could handle this on my own. Invitations are important, but to me they weren’t one of the biggest priorities. In reality, invitations are basically the first impression you are giving your guests. It’s worth it to invest in a talented designer (I love Sarah at Dodeline Design) who gets what you’re going for and can handle this for you. Invitations have Stressed. Me. Out. You can even find TONS of great invitation suites on Etsy, if going through a designer isn't for you. At the end of the day, by weighing the pros and cons, spending another $200 or so on invitations would have been totally worth it, rather than dealing with the headache I’ve caused myself.

• Don’t lose sight of what your wedding is really about. There are going to be things you want to do but won’t get done. There are things that aren’t going to go as planned. Don’t forget what the day is really about…you and your new husband, your new life together, and the opportunity to have all of the people you love the most in one place at the same time, celebrating together. What will be, will be.

Hopefully those little tips are helpful in some way or another. There are definitely some things I wish I could re-do but we’re this far in and we’ve just got to roll with the punches! I know the next three months are going to FLY, and although I can’t wait for the day to be here, I don’t want the days to fly by too fast because I don’t want our actual wedding day to fly by too fast! I know that no matter what happens, the day will be wonderful and I really look forward to the celebration!

What’s going on next? I’ll be back pretty soon with some insight into the vendors we chose and some other fun details like bridal portraits and what we’re doing for bachelor/bachelorette parties! See ya soon ALW!

Lowcountry Weddings {Oyster Roast}

Because all of your guests will jump at the chance to head to the Lowcountry for a wedding (I mean, who doesn't want to spend a weekend in Charleston, Hilton Head or Myrtle Beach!?!), more often than not, it turns into a weekend long wedding celebration…which is all kinds of fantastic.  You may consider having a welcome party on Thursday, a bridal luncheon Friday, rehearsal dinner that evening and, possibly, a Bon Voyage brunch on Sunday morning..and you know I'll encourage you to have every, last one of them!  One thing that your guests will be expecting when coming to town for your big bash, is to experience and revel in the spirit of the Lowcountry.   They want to put their toes in the sand, smell the salt water, enjoy the atmosphere and indulge in our one-of-a-kind, Southern cuisine…so you better give ‘em just that!  One of my favorite staples of the South Carolina coastline is a big ol’ oyster roast which, luckily, works perfectly for a laid back, rehearsal dinner, and since Fall is right around the corner, you might as well get to planning...

First thing’s first, you’ll need to pick the perfect venue that offers picturesque views and exudes that relaxed, Lowcountry vibe (and lord knows we've got plenty of them in Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach!):

Besides a stunning, Lowcountry view, you'll need to make sure you have a few key elements...

1) Some trusty oyster roast tables, with trash cans (of course!)

2) Oysters (duh!), gloves, saltines, cocktail sauce, horseradish and some Tabasco, for those that like it spicy.

3) Plenty of shuckers!

4) Last but not least, a bucket full of beer and some of your favorite koozies to keep 'em cold!

5)...and if you really feel like celebrating, maybe a few Oyster Shooters!

Get to shuckin'!

Lowcountry Wedding Favors

It's a question on every bride's mind...what on earth am I going to give as favors? OR should I even going to spend money on favors?  Now let's be serious, we've all chunked many-a cheesy wedding favors in trash (and rightfully so!) but with all the inspiration the Lowcountry offers, there must be a handful of memorable (and useable) surcees your wedding guests can appreciate.  For instance, maybe our Hilton Head brides can send their guests home with a little sweet tea for the road (Firefly, anyone?), or maybe your Charleston folks would enjoy some classic benne wafers or sweet pralines (I know I would!). What about some grits with your favorite shrimp and grits recipe for your Myrtle Beach affair?  Take a look at a few of our favorites and leave us a note if you've got a local favorite we forgot!

South Carolina Engagement {Sherry + Jonathan}

Good morning, my little Southern Belles!  We're going to get right to it this Monday morning with a sweet, farm engagement session from South Carolina based D'Attoma Studios. Sherry and Jonathan met several years ago when she was a manager at Abercrombie. Jonathan was genuine and funny and was always asking her to join him at parties or out with friends. He would tease her at work, picking her up over his shoulders and carrying her around the store. She laughed with him, but mainly “stuck him the dressing room” where he couldn’t cause trouble. She chose to not join him outside of work, blaming it on the companies strict policy of not fraternizing with employees. Jonathan stopped working at Abercrombie, and Sherry moved on to work in marketing and advertising. Time passed and she didn’t hear from him for awhile. Both were pursing lives and careers with different groups of people, and their paths didn’t really cross. Until one night. The phone rang, and it was him. He invited her out to eat with friends and to go watch a fight. Sherry used to do martial arts and instantly asked who was fighting. It happened to be someone she knew… and so she decided to join him that night.  They didn’t skip a beat. They reminisced like long lost friends and connected as never before. From then on, they were inseparable.

Hilton Head Wedding Venue {Shipyard Beach Club}

We're going to bid adieu to this fabulous Lowcountry week by spotlighting a gorgeous, beachfront wedding venue on Hilton Head Island.  Thanks to it's picturesque views, The Shipyard Beach Club is the Island's most-sought-after oceanside venue that is ideal for brides who are hoping for an outdoor ceremony with the sand and the sea in the background.

Couples can choose to have their ceremonies on the beach with the toes in the sand or on the elevated deck overlooking the water.  Both options offer fantastic views of the Atlantic with that great coastal breeze!

The recently renovated dining room and spacious lounge will provide your guests with a serene Lowcountry evening.

The Rental fee is $2000 and it covers the cost of the venue with existing tables and chairs.   To reserve The Shipyard Beach Club for your wedding reception, contact preferred cater Celebrations to assist you in securing a sponsorship for this stunning oceanfront location.

If you're looking for a Hilton Head venue that features the sand and surf with a classic Lowcountry feel, contact The Shipyard Beach Club for all your wedding day needs!

Shipyard Beach Club

10 Shipyard Drive

Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

843.842.3507

Hilton Head Wedding {Anna + Alex}

You just can't go wrong by incorporating navy into your wedding color palette.  It's a classic, timeless addition to any coastal, Lowcountry reception and compliments almost any color to perfection.  Hilton Head Bride Anna paired navy with apple green for her preppy, Southern affair and we're loving every minute of it!  Not only does her color scheme set my heart a-flutter, but her shoes are pure heaven.  Thanks to talented crew from Landon Jacob Productions for capturing every, beautiful moment of this fabulous, Hilton Head soiree!

Lowcountry Weddings {Garland}

I've been totally digging how brides and vendors have been incorporating garland into our beautiful Lowcountry weddings.  It's fun, whimsical and a different way to spice up your ceremony altar, dessert table or outdoor reception.  Take a look at a few of our favorite, dreamy ways to add a touch of garland to your wedding day!  I'm loving these balls of yarn...presh.

Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration

Ohhh, ladies!  We're diving right into this week with a big dose of Lowcountry wedding heaven that is sure to knock your socks off.  Captured by our friend Brooke Roberts Photography, this fabulous inspiration shoot highlights everything we love about this time of the year.  Getting hitched by the coast lends itself well to beautiful outdoor event, whether it's your wedding reception, rehearsal dinner or an intimate shower...you just can't go wrong.  With the help of Judi Watson Florals and Dutchman Designs, the team matched soft furnishings with pops of colorful accent pieces to achieve a cozy, laid back setting at The St. Simons Lighthouse and A.J. Jones Heritage Center.  Aren't you loving the summery color palette of turquoise and pink?  The models were outfitted in dresses from Lady in White and Snippety Do Da's topped them off with the perfect hair and make up.  Possibly my favorite part?  That food!  Tasteful Temptations whipped up some delicious Lowcountry cuisine (and a tasty specialty drink!) perfect for a garden affair.

Lowcountry Weddings {Summer Details}

Now that summer has un-officially started, we'll start seeing loads of beautiful, Lowcountry coastal affairs (and I can't wait!) While some brides might choose a Hilton Head, beach ceremony, others may opt for a classic, Charleston plantation wedding or a Southern, Myrtle Beach soiree!  Regardless of the location, one thing is for certain in the Lowcountry...the temperature will be hot and steamy!  So, prep your guests for a wedding they won't soon forget by adding a few of our favorite Lowcountry must-haves to your wedding day details.  

 Keep your guests cool during your outdoor ceremony with these fabulously, beachy fans!

Seersucker screams a Lowcountry summer

and we're loving it's addition to this ring bearer box!

Having an outdoor fete?  Then don't forget these essentials!

A little Burlap and Madras for your decor?

Why not...

A little Firefly and Lemonade is the perfect way to quench everyone's thirst...

Umbrellas not only provide shade but look adorable in ceremony pics

Flip flops for dancing? Yes, please!

Spice it up with Lawn Games.

We're loving this Cornhole set!

...and, let's finish it off with a bourbon bar...

Neon Wedding Details

If you told me you weren't loving every minute of neon making a comeback, I'd say you were lying through your teeth!  Not only am I enjoying adding pops of neon into my wardrobe, I get giddy every time I see it poke it's head into wedding decor.  We've rounded up some of our favorite options to inspire you to add a little neon into your Lowcountry wedding decor! I'm kinda head-over-heels for the invitations and cakes. Fab.

Lowcountry Wedding Cakes

It always shocks me at the talent and creativity of Lowcountry wedding vendors.   Wedding after wedding they design jaw-dropping, Lowcountry weddings that we can’t wait to sink our teeth into…literally!  You know we’re always head-over-heels for a stunning cake and luckily for us, Charleston, Myrtle Beach and Hilton Head are home to a slew of truly, amazing cake artists.  One wave of their buttercream wand and…voila, you’ve got show-stopping cake for all of your guests to gawk over and devour, of course :)

Hilton Head Wedding {Celia + Jeff}

You know we never tire of a fabulous Lowcountry wedding around here, especially when the crazy-talented duo of Landon Jacob Productions is on-hand to capture every, single, jaw-dropping moment.  When I saw this stunning Hilton Head wedding, I just knew I had to share it with our Lowcountry brides.  We've got palmetto trees, a soft, blush color palette, a classic, coastal vibe and an adorable couple.  Not a bad combination, eh? The twosome, Celia + Jeff, wed in a beautiful ceremony at the Church of Cross before a lively evening of dinner and dancing (and maybe a few glow sticks!) at the Hampton Hall Club.  Celia is an absolute doll (a gorgeous doll, at that). She looked amazing in a dreamy, strapless gown that went perfectly with a smile that she sported throughout the entire event...and who could blame her!                                                  

Wedding Location: Church of the Cross

Reception Location: Hampton Hall

Lowcountry Wedding Chair Decor

Good evening to all of our Lowcountry Ladies!  Just in case you missed it yesterday, we shared some huge news!  Along with the help of some crazy, talented vendors, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is giving (yes, I said GIVING!) away a fabulous Charleston wedding!  So, check out all the details here and make sure to get crackin' on your video. It's no secret there are wayyyy to many decisions that need to be made while planning your wedding and while this topic may not apply to everyone, many stylish brides are in need of a little inspiration on how to jazz up your wedding ceremony and/or reception chairs.  Well, per usual, we've got you covered and I'm positive you'll be over-the-moon with the oodles of seating decor you'll find below.

Lowcountry Wedding {Bridesmaids Dresses}

You've got to admit that our Lowcountry brides have an impeccably elegant Southern style...I think they're just born with it :)  So it's no surprise they make sure their maids are dressed to the nines, as well.  They keep it sophisticated with a sweet pastel color palette for a classic plantation reception or they'll spice it up with bright, trendy patterns for an oceanside, Myrtle Beach affair.  They'll dress their Lowcountry gals in flowy, long gowns that are perfect for a relaxed Hilton Head wedding or they'll keep it short with a sassy cocktail dress fitting of a Downtown Charleston soiree.  Bottom line, stick with your oh-so-fabulous taste when choosing your bridesmaids dresses, I promise they'll thank you for it later!

Ring Bearers + Flower Girls {Wedding Attire}

I will tell you what...I love seeing the little ones all dolled up as they stroll down the aisle, introducing their beautiful bride.  They're so sweet and innocent and always look adorable which is why the flower girls and ring bearers attire is so clutch.  Recently, I've spotted some seriously precious outfits that I just had to share with yall.  P.S. I think I've developed a serious tutu obsession.  Don't even play, you know they're darling!

Sarah + Tyler {Virginia Wedding}

Oh yes, Stephen Gosling has done it again with this irresistible Southern wedding he shot this past September in the beautiful state of Virginia.  The couple, Sarah + Tyler, went with a natural color palette that complimented their outdoor, rustic setting.  Sarah looked like a sweet Southern Belle in her dainty strapless gown while Tyler looked handsome in his classic black tuxedo.  While I may have been drooling over the simple, yet stunning, decor in this wedding, I'm really in love with the images of the couple.  The weather and sunlight was perfect and I don't think they could have asked for a more beautiful backdrop.  Can we say frame-able!?

Spring + Summer Bouquets {Wedding Details}

I've been soaking up loads of wedding inspiration today and thought who better to share the fruits of my labor with then my favorite Lowcountry brides and I have a sneaky suspicion you won't be disappointed.  While I'll always love a gorgeous Fall or Winter wedding, truth be told, I'm more of a Spring/Summer gal...and I think it has a lot to do with the seasonal blooms.  It's no secret I'm a big fan of Pinterest and over the past few weeks it's provided me with a wealth of soft Spring and Summer bouquets that I couldn't wait to share with you!