Catering: Cocktail Hour Wedding Hors d'Oeuvres

I've always been a big fan of cocktail hour (and not just because I enjoy a good specialty drink), but it sets the stage for the entire evening.  Cocktail hour typically begins as guests start to file into the reception venue and are anxiously awaiting the bride and groom's arrival.  As they wait for the celebration to kick off, it's always nice to treat your guests to a preview of the menu to come.  Wedding hors d'oeuvres are a great way to get the party started and, let's face it, who doesn't love being greeted by servers with trays full of delicious appetizers!  I've rounded up some of my recent favorites that are very fitting for a spring/summer affair!

Pine Lakes Country Club Wedding by Brooke Christl Photography

So, things have really taken off over here at A Lowcountry Wedding! Our readership grows every week and on a daily basis we're receiving emails, tweets and facebook messages from Lowcountry brides who are in search of their perfect vendors...well not to worry, your wish is our command!  We're currently in the process of adding a vendor section for each region of the Lowcountry to assist with your wedding day needs!  Until then, continue to shoot us emails and we'll make sure to point you in the right direction :) Now, to the good stuff!  One of our favorites, Brooke Christl Photography, kindly sent over this gorgeous Myrtle Beach wedding and we just couldn't wait to share it with our brides-to-be.  Katie + Rob tied the knot last May in an outdoor ceremony on the grounds of Pine Lakes Country Club.  The bride strolled down the aisle in a stunning strapless gown by Justin Alexander Bridal while her maids looked charming in Navy dresses.  After saying 'I do', they continued the celebration in the ballroom where Bright and Beautiful Flowers adorned the space with beautiful, natural floral arrangements that complimented the blue, yellow, green and white color palette.  Guests enjoyed tasty Lowcountry cuisine before the bride and groom departed in a classic, old school ride!  We're in love with this elegant Pine Lakes Country Club wedding!

Myrtle Beach Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Brooke Christl Photography  /  Hair Stylist:  Myrtle Beach Hair Styles  /  Event Planner:  Donna Loup  /  Floral Designer:  Bright and Beautiful Flowers  /  Musicians:  Strand Strings  /  Reception Venue: Pine Lakes Country Club  /  Dress Store:  The Wedding Center  /  Dress Designer: Justin Alexander Bridal  /  Cake Designer:  Cakes by the Sea  /  Makeup Artist:  Laura Klem

Our Favorite Southern Wedding Shoes

While I tend to be a big fan of flip flops, I sure do love a good pair of heels...especially with a wedding dress.  I'm not sure what it is but when you throw on a fun pair of heels it automatically gives you a little sass in your step.  So, I've rounded up a few of my favs to spark a little inspiration in your wedding day attire.  I've got dainty and neutral to swanky and colorful.  I've got buttons and bows, ruffles and sparkles...a little something for everyone!  Which ones are you favorite wedding shoes?!

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens Portraits from Richard Bell Photography

A few weeks ago we shared Rachel + David's sweet Lowcountry wedding, shot by the talented Mell Bell of Richard Bell Photography, that left many of you oohhhing and ahhhing...and I can't say that I blame you!  Well, today we've got even more of Rachel's bridal bliss to share with you.   Rachel selected Charleston's picturesque Magnolia Plantation and Gardens as the backdrop for her bridal portraits and I have to say it may have been the perfect decision.  As she roamed the gardens, Mell Bell was on hand to capture the blushing bride, her fabulous blue shoes, and the stunning scenery.  In need of more Southern inspiration, well don't worry, we got you covered!  We recently released the stunning first issue of A Lowcountry Wedding magazine and we've got a feeling you'll be head-over-heels in love.  You'll find our favorite bouquets, inspiration shoots from the South Carolina Aquarium and Marion's in the French Quarter and 13 Real Lowcountry Weddings!

Charleston Wedding Vendors

Venue: Magnolia Plantation and Gardens  /  Photographer: Richard Bell Photography

Coastal Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration from Kelly Sauer Photography

Charleston photographer Kelly Sauer of Girl in the White Dress must know me way too well.  I'm pretty certain she knew the minute I saw this darling anniversary shoot that it would just set my heart a-flutter...and boy, did it!  The couple, Rachel + Bruce,  headed back to the place where they said 'I do', Bruce's picturesque parent's home, for this sweet inspiration shoot filled with adorable DIY details and loads of Lowcountry wedding charm!  I mean, there's a joggling board and a dock...what more could you want?  The whole afternoon was relaxed and effortless which was evident in Rachel's picnic-esque selection of food (salmon and smoked turkey finger sandwiches, Barefoot Contessa lemon bars, and sweet tea), fresh fruit (pears, lemons, and muscadine grapes) and a little mint to brighten the feel of things. Kelly incorporated soft pops of red as she designed and created the jewelry, bouquets, favors and centerpieces full of happy-go-lucky daisies.  I must say, Kelly's adorable daughter Piper may have just stolen the show in her role as the flower girl...don't ya think?

Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Kelly Sauer Photography  /  Hair Stylist:  Susie Kozlowski  /  Caterer:  Whole Foods, Rachel Puckett  /  Floral Designer:  Trader Joe's, Kelly Sauer Ltd. Co.  /  Dress Store:  Express, Katharine's Bridal Boutique  /  Dress Designer:  Penelope Mack  /  Other:  Broner, Montique  /  Shoes:  VANELi  /  Tuxedo and Mens Attire:  Options of Charleston, The Black Tie, Corbin for Max Men's Store  /  DIY or Handmade Goods Designer:  Michaels

Yellow and Blue Chesapeake Bay Wedding from Britt Croft Photography

There are two things I really like: 1)Weddings (obvi!) and 2) The coast.  So, when I get to combine both I'm a pretty happy gal and, luckily for me, that happens on a regular basis and today it's no different!  Our pal Brittani of Britt Croft Photography recently shot Lindsey + Chris' Chesapeake Bay wedding and has ever-so graciously decided to share this gorgeous eye candy with us!  The couple tied the knot on The Pier at North Beach this past October under a clear blue sky in front of all their friends and family.  After, they kept the party going at a private residence with a tented reception decorated in a preppy yellow + blue color palette.  If this doesn't make you want to head to the water then I don't know what will!

Vendors

Photographer: Britt Croft Photography  /  Catering: Wyvill Catering  /  Ceremony location: The Pier at North Beach  /  Reception location: A private home in North Beach  /  Bride's dress: David's Bridal

Pink + Green South Carolina Wedding from Emily Lapish Photography

It's Friiiiday and we're wrapping up this week with an effortless Carolina Lowcountry wedding from the talented Emily Lapish Photography.  The bride, Crystal, went with a preppy, Southern color palette of pink and green for her Fall affair.  Her maids were outfitted in pink, strapless gowns that were accented with soft, green hydrangea bouquets.  The couple tied the knot in a sweet outdoor ceremony in front of friends and family before continuing the celebration with fabulous music, food and adorable burlap details! Crystal + Nat's love story spans eleven years and includes many tales of missed chances and attempted introductions. Thanks to Crystal for filling us in on all the details: "2010: the year God changed my life forever. I had been on more dates that I could count with dismal results to say the least. I had cried myself to sleep more nights that I care to admit to anyone and I was slowly slipping into the abyss of despair. One Sunday morning at church something changed. I saw Nat. I knew who he was and I desperately wanted to go over and say something. I called a friend the next day and casually asked about him. She took it upon herself to give him my number, but I didn't hold my breath that he would call...they never called. This time was different, he did call. He wanted to meet me for dinner. "At the end of the best date of my life - full of laughter, conversation and, to put it mildly, magic - he said the words I had always wanted to hear: "Can I see you again?" The next couple of months were like nothing I had ever experienced. He was what I had always dreamed of. Kind, attentive, fun. Everything I needed and had ever wanted. In November, after 6 months of bliss, my fairy tale came true. Nat Dinkins got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. Through the tears and laughter I, of course, said yes!! In October 2011, I put on the white dress and veil that every girl dreams of wearing. I walked down the aisle to the man of my dreams. A man that loves me, protects my heart, and gave me the love I felt was out of my reach. In front of our family, friends and God, we began our life together. With God as center, we'll embark on the journey we call life. Our happily ever after."

South Carolina Wedding Vendors

Photographer:  Emily Lapish Photography  /  Caterer:  Catering For All Occasions  /  Musicians:  Jennie Eggleston, My Gentle Harp  /  Invitation Designer:  The Ink Basket  /  Dress Store:  Southern Brides

Hair {Wedding Details}

It's no secret that I'm a little obsessed with Pinterest  and once a week I like to share some of my favorite finds with all of you beautiful Lowcountry brides!  We're pretty blessed with a slew of talented hair designers who regularly create soft, elegant  wedding do's that are always very fitting of our brides and with all the buzz around Charleston Fashion Week, I can't help but daydream about all the stunning hairstyles we'll see this Saturday at the Charleston Weddings Bridal Show.   So to prepare everyone for what's to come this weekend, have fun drooling over this fabulous round up!

Fanci + Carl {Dunes Golf and Beach Club Wedding}

My husband is known around these parts for his rendition of, 'I Hope You Dance."  To be honest, the boy gives Ms. Lee Ann Womack a run for her money.  Just kidding but boy, does he like to belt it out!  So, needless to say, I was totally over-the-moon when Lee Ann's face showed up in this gorgeous Myrtle Beach affair from Paula Player Photography!  The country singer was on hand to see her darling cousin say 'I do' and, of course, sing a few notes!  The adorable couple, Fanci + Carl, tied the knot this past Fall at one of our favorite Lowcountry venues, the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, in a beautiful outdoor ceremony.  In addition to the talented Paula Player, the newlyweds enlisted the help of Myrtle Beach's finest wedding vendors to pull off their Big Day.  The team at Stunning & Brilliant Events designed and executed the entire evening to a tee while the amazing crew from Blossoms Events was  behind the jaw dropping floral arrangements.  All and all it was the perfect Lowcountry wedding!

Check out their wedding trailer from Hart to Hart Media here!

Myrtle Beach Wedding Vendors

Photographer:Paula Player Photography  /  Hair Stylist:  Perfect Reflections  /  Event Planner:  Stunning & Brilliant Events, LLC  /  Floral Designer: Blossoms Events  /  Reception Venue:  Dunes Golf & Beach Club  /  Cinema and Video:  Hart to Heart Media  /  Dress Store:  The Little White Dress  /  Cake Designer:  Priceless Desserts  /  Lighting:  Globaltruth Entertainment  /  Paper Props:  A Little Something Detailed

Meredith + Keith {Beaufort Weddings} Angela Cox Photography

My inbox has been dripping with Lowcountry wedding fabulousness, and I'll tell you what...this girl is not complaining!  South Carolina photographer, Angela Cox, sent over this knockout and I couldn't wait to share these stunning images and darling DIY details.  Meredith + Keith tied the knot in the laid back town of Beaufort this past Fall under dreamy Oak trees in Meredith's parent's backyard.  Meredith's girls were dressed in gorgeous green Dessy dresses that they complimented with vibrant bouquets.  All the maids arranged their own bouquets and the Bride's aunt tackled the boys boutonnieres....pretty impressive, huh?  After the ceremony they moved into the Lucy Creek Dock house where guests were treated with Lowcountry cuisine from Wren's, grandma's pound cake and tunes from A Sound Celebration!

Hilton Head Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Angela Cox Photography  /  Venue: Parent's Backyard, Lucy Creek Dock house (Beaufort, SC)  /  Event and Floral Designer: Bride, Mother of the Bride  /  Hair: Vanity Box  /  Caterer: Wren  /  Officiant: Keith's Grandpa Alastair Walker, and Steve Keeler  /  Ceremony Musician: David Walker  /  DJ: A Sound Celebration (Bluffton, SC)  /  Wedding Dress: David's Bridal  /  Bridesmaid's Dresses: Dessy  /  Groom's Suit: Men's Wearhouse  /  Groom's Shoes: Banana Republic  /  Groomsmens' Suits: Men's Wearhouse  /  Stationery: Designed by Keith's Sister, Lauren Walker

Danielle + Adam {Jekyll Island Wedding} Brooke Roberts Photography

Who's up for a little slice of Lowcountry wedding heaven? Anyone? Anyone?...Bueller?  Well don't worry your pretty little heads because, as usual, the talented team at Brooke Roberts Photography has quite the treat for us today.  After Adam popped the question to his beautiful bride-to-be Danielle, the Chicago residents jumped right into the mix of wedding planning.  They quickly settled on an intimate Summer affair off the stunning Georgia coast.  They said their 'I do's' in a quaint ceremony at the Faith Chapel on the grounds of the Historic Jekyll Island Club.  After, the newlyweds slipped away for some images along the shores of the dreamy Driftwood Beach.  They continued the celebration at Latitudes 31 Restaurant on the Jekyll Wharf as guests enjoyed the jaw dropping surroundings and fabulous food!

Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Brooke Roberts Photography  /  Ceremony:Faith Chapel at Jekyll Island Club  /  Florist: Winn Dixie  /  Hair Stylist: Studio 412  /  Dress: David's Bridal  /  Reception Venue: Latitude 31 Restaurant  /  Cake Designer: mary a daniels

Heritage Plantation Wedding in Pawleys Island from Richard Ellis Photography

Pawleys Island is a hidden gem on the Lowcountry coast.  It's a short drive from Myrtle Beach and just North of Charleston.  It's home to the stately Heritage Plantation, a beautiful wedding venue situated between the Atlantic coast and the laid back Waccamaw River and it was the perfect spot for Ashley + Scott's Fall affair.  Ashley went with a classic neutral color palette that florist, Tommy Newman, translated into gorgeous ceremony and reception decor.  The Plantation was a picturesque backdrop for their dreamy day and our fab friends at Richard Ellis Photography were on hand to capture every single moment.  After a touching ceremony, the guests were treated to dazzling evening under the Spanish moss with a cool Lowcountry breeze.   Thanks for sharing your beautiful Heritage Plantation wedding!

Myrtle Beach Wedding Vendors

Photography: Richard Ellis Photography  /  Florist: Tommy Newman  /  Ceremony and Reception Venue: The Heritage Plantation  /  Planner: Jennifer Aiken  /  Cake Designer: Pawleys Island Bakery  /   Entertainment: Heartbeat of Soul

Specialty Drinks for Southern Weddings in Charleston, Hilton Head, Myrtle Beach

Wedding season is upon us and for all of you Spring and Summer brides looking for the perfect tasty libation to welcome your guests, look no further!  We've rounded up plenty of options.   Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach are blessed with the beautiful Lowcountry landscape that lends itself way to jaw dropping wedding venues that offer one-of-a-kind views on the water.  These coastal spots will naturally put wedding guest into a celebratory mood, so your choice of food and beverage needs to share the same spirit.  Welcoming your guests with a killer specialty drink will get the party started!

Blood Orange Margarita

The Brooklyn Beauty

Raspberry Beer Cocktail

Pineapple Mint Rum Punch

Pomegranate Spritzer

Meyer Lemonade with Rosemary

Blackberry Sage Cooler

...and who could forget our favorite Lowcountry specialty?

A John Daly - Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka and Lemonade

Oceanside Edisto Beach Wedding from Julie Napear Photography

Hope everyone enjoyed a rainy weekend with friends at the Charleston Wine + Food Festival!  We're back at this week with a laid back, oceanside Edisto Beach wedding from the talented Julie Napear Photography.  Edisto is a beautiful coastal jewel that is about an hour from Charleston and two from Hilton Head...it's the perfect location for a low-key affair with some seriously breathtaking views.   The couple, Adrienne + Sean, met while living in the Bay Area and decided a Lowcountry wedding was a must for their August nuptials.  They wanted something simple and touching and that's exactly what they got!  Their ceremony was held on the beach with standing room only before they headed back inside for an evening of dancing.

Charleston Weddings {A Charleston Bride} Brittani

So our friend Brittani, a Charleston Bride, of Britt Croft Photography, is planning her big Charleston wedding this coming September.  I asked her if she'd take us on the journey as she blogs her way through all things wedding planning, right up until her fabulous Lowcountry Wedding!  Today, it's all about her photographer.  Take it away, Britt...

"Hi ALW! It's been a while, but I've been truckin' along with my wedding to do list! Last time I wrote, I chatted about selecting our Charleston wedding venue.  I get so excited when I think about it because I just know it's so "us" and will set the perfect mood and backdrop for our big day.

Probably the most important thing to me, naturally, was the photography. Everyone has different priorities, but for us, the photography is what will take us back years down the road. It's how we'll remember so many of the thing that flew by that day, or that we were too busy to think about. Our wedding album will become a family heirloom that we will pass along to our children and grandchildren. Photography was definitely at the top of the list in terms of importance. Along with the venue and food (also so important to us), the photography was also a big chunk of our budget.

As a wedding photographer myself, people have asked me from day one of our engagement who would shoot our wedding. "Surely you must have chosen that first!" people would say. Nope. Sure didn't. In fact, the decision stressed me out A LOT. It was SO important to me that I was terrified of making the wrong decision...so I put it off and put it off, but after we booked our venue, I really had to buckle down and discuss it with Dustin before the awesome photographers I loved booked up for our date.

I spent a ton of time thinking about it. There are so many photographers whose work I love that I didn't know how I could choose. I finally narrowed it down to three. I thought some more. I browsed portfolios, blogs, etc. I tried to get a feel for personalities and such. I thought about it even more. I wanted someone with us on our big day that I felt I could relate to. I know that on your wedding day, you spend a lot of time with your photographer. I wanted someone who used light beautifully...that is SO important to me! I wanted someone who told a story, who would appreciate us wanting to do a first look, would pay close attention to details and the personalization we plan to add to our Southern wedding, and who put a lot of emphasis on bride and groom portraits. Portraits of my handsome southern man and I on our big day is so important to me because I know those will be some of the most powerful and intimate pictures from the day. Just us...loving being in love. I thought some more. I figured I needed a plan of action...I needed to prioritize my list and see who was available. Well, I decided who was my number one choice and emailed yer. Yup! She was available for September 15th! Yay! We chatted a bit about the day and soon after were officially booked!

So...who'd we choose? Well, the sweet Katelyn James. After doing all that thinking...this wedding in particular really sold me: Buddy & Jill . There was SO much that was just so relatable about it. Buddy's looks and handiness reminds me of Dustin in a lot of ways...and of course the whole cozy country theme and "farmers wife" thing was perfect. We knew from the beginning we wanted our whole wedding party to wear boots, too, and I just loved the whole mood and vibe of this wedding. We really felt like Katelyn would know how to work with us and shoot our kind of wedding. We can't wait to see how she tells the story of a day we are so eager to be here. Anddddd...we are getting super excited about our engagement session! It'll be here before we know it in April and it will be so special to have some truly authentic professional portraits of us just being us.

So what happened next? Well, we booked our caterer, DJ, AND I just recently found my dress!!! I thought the latter would be a stressful and exhausting experience, but it was anything but. I can't wait to share about those next two steps with y'all in the next few weeks! :)