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!

Charleston Engagement {Jeana + Stan}

This past Fall, our friends over at Chi Photography spent a lovely afternoon with Jeana + Stan as they gallivanted around Charleston's Waterfront Park.  With the Lowcountry as the backdrop, and Jeana + Stan front in center, Chi captured some truly Charleston-esque elements in these wonderfully vivid and perfectly photographed shots.   From the famous Pineapple Fountain and cobblestone roads, to the Cooper River Bridge and Charleston Harbor, we hope you enjoy this beautiful Downtown Engagement Session.

Inspiration Board: For Like Ever

Good morning to my Lowcountry ladies!  I've always loved the 'For Like Ever' poster (and what's not to like about it?), especially in these fun colors.  It's bright and cheery and would be so fitting for a jazzy Charleston affair.   It's the perfect palette for a lively, summer wedding...

Images via (1) Green Wedding Shoes, (2) Apartment Therapy, (3) Our Labor of Love, (4) DIY & Hair Dye, (5) Green Wedding Shoes, (6) Samantha Wills (7) Tilly and the Buttons, (8) My Sweet and Saucy, (9)The Sweetest Occasion (10)Gideon Photography via Amorology Weddings, (11) Samanthat Wills

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 /

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!

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!

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

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

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