Christina + Tim {Atlanta Engagement}

Christina + Tim are planning a Parisian themed wedding and really wanted to incorporate that vibe into their engagement session.  With the help Elle Golden Photography and a perfect Spring afternoon, this Georgia couple accomplished just that.  They decided on Atlanta's John Howell Memorial Park where Christina + Tim took in the beautiful scenery and enjoyed a cozy French inspired picnic.

These two are so stinkin' cute.  Christina is just precious...

Stephanie + Matt {West Palm Beach Wedding}

Stephanie + Matt tied the knot this past Spring in sunny West Palm Beach, Florida.  The two opted for a traditional Catholic ceremony at St. Ann's Church were they said 'I do' in front of all their friends and fam.  Afterwards, they took to the beach where the ladies of Stay Forever Photography were able to grab some gorgeous sun kissed images of the happy couple and their bridal crew.  They joined their guests at the Palm Beach Sailing Club were they enjoyed a reception filled with an appetizing array of food (including BBQ and cake pops!), kickin' reggae, lots of dancing and a wonderful coastal breeze.

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: stay forever photography  /  reception venue: palm beach sailing club

Charleston Weddings {Shoes}

Who doesn't want/need a fabulous pair of shoes for their trip down the aisle?  Hidden beneath your luxurious gown, everyone will be dying to catch a glimpse of how you've selected to stylishly outfit your tootsies for the day.   Your choice of footwear is your chance to have a little fun with your wedding day attire. Whether they're flats or heels, a matching vibrant hue or seriously bedazzled, there's reason not to liven up your wedding with some showstopping shoes.

Image via Style Me Pretty

 

Image via Baked Goods and Bridal Bouquets

Image via Kristen Marie Photography

Images via Jesse Leake Photography and Julie Afflerbaugh Photography Image via Anne Marie Photography

 

Image via Veil and Bow and Amy Wellenkamp

Image via Jeff Sampson Photography

Image via Karen Wise Photography

Image via Matchbook Magazine

Image via Jessica Smith Photography

 

Image via Judy Pak Photography

Image via Corbin Gurkin

Image via Adam Barnes Fine Art Photography

Image via Haley Sierra Wedding Photography

 

Image via Ethan Yang Photography

Image via Scobey Photography

Image via Rochelle Mort Photography

Image via Studio Impressions

Which one's your fav?

Bethany + Jay {Nashville Wedding}

It's time for the weekend!  To all of our Charleston wedding vendors and gorgeous Lowcountry Brides, we wish you all a perfect wedding weekend...and we can't wait to see the pictures!  To wrap up this chilly Fall week, we're sharing a personal favorite of mine.  This Nashville wedding comes to us from the talented Evin Photography and has some truly classic Southern elements.  Bride Bethany stuns in her one-of-a-kind strapless gown while her maids look fab in knee length pewter dresses.  I am absolutely in love with her bouquet, that amazing cake and the adorable ring bearer :) 

Thanks to Bethany for sharing her story...

Tell us a little bit about how you two met...

My husband and I met through his aunt and uncle.  We had both previously been in previous relationships and in the same places at the same time but never met until a few years later.  Both of our relationships had ended and they introduced us, somewhat jokingly, and we both had our first “blind date” – the rest is history.  Our first date was at my favorite restaurant and it’s a running joke amongst my friends that I don’t share my macaroni & cheese.  When I came back from the date and reported that I had shared my mac & cheese, everyone knew this was it!

Tell us about how he proposed... 

After telling me that there was a surprise date planned, we went to dinner at a nice restaurant. I  had been contemplating all week if perhaps this could be it, but decided it was far too obvious (all part of Jay's plan)! Through out dinner, nothing seemed to be amiss so I decided this was definitely not the night and settled for a wonderful dessert. After dinner, Jay took me driving through downtown Franklin and we looked at all of the historic houses. He decided to park and asked that they walk around - in 90 degree muggy humid weather. Thinking that this was not the surprise but that they were wasting time because they were going to go DO something, I was getting more than a little frustrated at all of the walking and sweating they were doing and was wondering why we couldn't waste time doing something else. Eventually, we made their way to a beautiful neighborhood of the Brownstones. The gate to the courtyard was unlocked and there was a gorgeously lit fountain surrounded by benches, oil lamps and landscaping. Jay couldn't wait much longer and dropped to his knee. We were engaged for right at a year.

Out of the entire day, what was the most memorable moment?

There were two moments that really stand out to both my husband and myself when we look back.  We did a first look and were then able to do pictures prior to the ceremony.  After seemingly a million pictures, it was our turn to sit down for a minute while our photographer worked just with the wedding party.  While we sat in a pew, everything seemed to fade around us and we were able to really just relax into each other and take it in.  It was a sweet moment and one I’m thankful to have.  The other is when we were leaving.  We had a vintage Bentley and chauffer and as we drove away, he took the back road to the interstate.  The road was dark, there was no traffic we drove down in what was many places a tree lined road.  It honestly felt like something out of a movie.  We were exhausted, excited and able to breathe for what seemed like the first time all day.  The driver was going slow and it seemed like in those ten minutes or so, time stood still.

How did you choose your venue? What elements drew you to it?

We chose the chapel we were married in because we fell in love with it the first time we saw it and it was also part of the church we are members at.  Our reception venue appealed because it was in an old historic factory and we loved the exposed brick and old window panes hanging at the entrance.

Your wedding was filled with gorgeous details.  Did any have special meaning? What was your favorite?

My grandmother’s wedding ring was attached to my bouquet and my mom made the Mr. & Mrs. Signs that were on our seats.  I loved everything and was really happy with how it all turned out – one of my favorite things was the wedding cake.  I had seen a picture online and fell in love.  I sent it to my fabulous baker and she was able to recreate it perfectly – I love how the ruffles tied in with my dress.  My husband is a huge University of Tennessee fan and his grooms cake was a replica of Neyland Stadium – I think it’s safe to say that was one of his favorites as well!

Tell us a little bit about your menu...

We decided to have delicious food catered by the restaurant of a family friend.  All of the recipes are from “Mamaw”, the original owner, and she helped to oversee that everything turned out beautifully.  We had parmesan crusted chicken, green been bundles, herb roasted potatoes, frozen strawberry salad, fresh rolls.  We also had our special macaroni and cheese brought in!

Looking back on your engagement and wedding, is there any advice you would give to brides in the planning process?

I would give the same advice that was often given to me.  Take a moment for the two of you.  I didn’t realize how very important it was until I look back and am so thankful that we did that.    But it all is such a blur and goes by so quickly; the two moments that I can remember with complete and utter clarity just as if I am looking at a picture are the two moments mentioned above.  I would also say that, yes it is a beautiful day and it is a momentous occasion, but remember that there is life after the wedding as well.  Prepare yourselves and your hearts for your marriage, not just the wedding.  At the end of the day, most people will barely notice the small details.  They really matter to you, which is fine, but in the course of everything, you won’t notice and it won’t matter that the “I Spy” game wasn’t handed out to the children.  What matters is the life that you have started together and memories you have made with your loved ones.

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: evin photography  /  floral designer:  beth's bouquets  /  reception venue:  building 8 at the factory  /  cinema and video:  focal point cinematic  / cake designer: the french confection

Lisa + Eric {St. Petersburg Yacht Club Wedding}

What a beautiful morning it is in Charleston and it's time to get today started with something I'm smitten with...a coastal wedding!  I just love a beautiful coastal wedding.  There's something so relaxing about being on the water...it's just bound to put everyone in a partying kinda mood!  Which is exactly what happened when Lisa + Eric were wed this past Spring in lovely St. Petersburg, Florida.  After a traditional ceremony at St. Paul's Catholic Church, the newlywed couple joined their bridal party and the fabulous team at K and K Photography for some seriously stunning group shots under a magnificent Oak tree.  They spent the rest of the evening at St. Petersburg Yacht Club where they treated their guests to a relaxing waterside atmosphere, delicious food and a kickin' band!

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer:k and k photography  /  floral designer:  mildred maloney flowers  / 

entertainment:  southtown fever  /  reception venue:  st. petersburg yacht club  / 

transportation:  gulf coast limousines

Georgia Engagement {Hope Photography}

This romantic engagement session comes to us from the talented team at Hope Photography. You can just see the love in their eyes as these precious Georgia Peaches enjoyed their afternoon in this darling styled shoot...complete with some Coca-Cola :)  They have the most genuine smiles!

Becky + Tyler {Tennessee Engagement Session}

Since it's all rainy outside, I thought everybody need a little extra dose of inspiration so, we're doubling it up today with some engagement session loveliness! First up, we've got Becky + Tyler's sweet Southern session from the amazing husband and wife team behind Colby Wheeler Photography.  The couple spent a perfect Tennessee afternoon getting cozy on the farm!

This is my favorite shot...how sweet!

Jordyn + Joe {Myrtle Beach Engagement}

It's October and you know what that means in South Carolina...it's time for the Fair!  From the bright lights and joyful rides to the deep fried Snickers bars (yum!) and fantastic entertainment, you can't beat a cool crisp October evening at the Fair.  Last week, the South Carolina State Fair kicked off in the Capitol City and in just a  few days the Coastal Carolina Fair begins in Ladson.  In honor of all the fun that's to be had in the Palmetto State over the next few weeks, we just HAD to share Jordyn + Joe's (you may remember their gorgeous wedding we  shared this past summer) Pavilion Nostalgia Park engagement session from our talented friend Gillian Reinhardt of Carolina Studios.  The Groom, Joe, was not thrilled about the idea of taking engagment photos, so his one request was it had to be somewhere fun and what better place than the Pavilion!  To give the session a little variety, the couple then headed over to the beach to catch the sunset and wrap up the day.

Favorite shot...

  

Prospect Hill Plantation Wedding {Rebecca + James}

For starters, I just have to mention that my cousin, Meaghan, was on The Knotty Bride yesterday...and she looks ah-maz-ing.  (Must run in the family :) ha!)  The Lowcountry Region is full of breathtaking venues.  They tend to be the perfect mix of coastal and elegance...and let's be honest, you just can't beat that.  Charleston is surrounded by quite a few barrier islands that will sweep you off your feet with their natural beauty.  Today's couple, Rebecca + James, selected the beautiful Prospect Hill Plantation on Edisto Island, South Carolina, which is just south of Charleston, to celebrate their wedding.  They enlisted the talented ladies of By Invitation Only to pull off their laidback, pink coastal affair.  The crew at Good Food Catering made sure their guests were treated to a healthy dose of Lowcountry cuisine. (Crab cakes? Yes, please!)  While photographer Christine LeGrand captured everything a Lowcountry Bride dreams of...gorgeous sunlit, darling details, a perfect backdrop (complete with a palmetto tree or two!), and a sweet, loving couple....

Tell us how you guys met...  I met James at a Carolina Gamecocks football game.  I had extra tickets and my sister’s husband brought his best friend, James.  That was in 2006.  We kept meeting at Carolina games like once a year, talking and hanging out.  In 2008, I called him up and asked him when he was going to take me on a date.  We went out that weekend and have been together ever since.

Let's hear about the proposal...

                James wanted to propose where it all started, so he wanted to propose at Williams-Brice Stadium.   It was a completely gloomy and rainy Memorial Day weekend and James said he wanted to go for a ride.  We drove down to the stadium and drove around the fairgrounds three times probably waiting for the rain to stop, which it never did.  He ended up parking in front of the stadium and got me out of the car.  He knelt down in a puddle and pulled out the most beautiful,perfect engagement ring and asked me if I would marry him.  Of course I said yes!  It wasn’t exactly how he had planned it but it was the thought that counts!!  We got married one year later on Memorial Day weekend. 

What's your favorite picture from your wedding?

I can't choose a favorite picture because there are so many wonderful, meaningful moments that were captured, but I really like this photo on the hammock.  How much more Southern and laidback can you get that a hammock?!  I just love that it's just me and James and you can see all the details of the wedding - the venue, the colors, flowers, accessories.  I also love how happy we both are!

Out of the entire day, what was the most memorable moment?

That’s a hard one!!!  I would say our first kiss because it was perfect but honestly it was probably the vows!  I had asked the Pastor if we could include some additional vows.  During the ceremony, the Pastor told us we could recite the vows to one another.  I thought we would just be repeating them so I didn’t memorize them and I knew James didn’t know them.  I looked at James and without thinking said, “We’ll pass!”  It was a funny moment that made everyone laugh and is very indicative of our life.  When things don’t go as planned, we just try to laugh!!

How did you choose your venue? What elements drew you to Prospect Hill?

I bought a bunch of Charleston magazines and looked on a lot of websites to find some plantations in the Lowcountry.  I found a listing in the back of one magazine with different plantations and saw pictures of Prospect Hill and knew I had to go see it.  James and I made an appointment to visit.  We got in the car and knew we had found the perfect place for our wedding!  There was this beautiful white plantation home, rows of palm trees for a beachy feel, a pecan grove, a pond, and a gorgeous oak tree with a beautiful view of the water.  Exactly what we both wanted!

Your wedding was filled with gorgeous details.  Did any have special meaning? What was your favorite?

There were several details that were very special to me.  I only have one grandparent still living, my Nana (my paternal grandmother), but she was unable to come to the wedding because it was out of town.  She always wears brooches on her sweaters or dresses.  I needed something borrowed so I asked if I could borrow some of her brooches and wear them for the wedding.  I found a pink brooch that I attached to my bouquet, and  a teal brooch that I wore on my reception dress.  The necklace I wore was my maternal grandmother’s that my granddaddy had given her.  My mom gave it to me years ago and I told her I was going to wear it on my wedding day.  The necklace was a flower which fit really well into the wedding because the wedding was outdoors and my dress actually had some flowers on the sash.  I also really liked my cake topper.  I like being a little artsy and I decided to make the cake topper myself.  I painted the people and sewed the dress, suit, and bouquet.  I also included our three cats because James really wanted them to be a part of our wedding.  I love the way it turned out!  It was very us!!

Why did you choose to have A Lowcountry Wedding?

 I love the South and I knew I wanted a very southern wedding with oak trees and moss hanging down, something more laid back, easygoing.  James wanted a beach wedding, but I didn’t want to do the whole sand and wind thing!  So I thought a plantation wedding or something on the coast would be a perfect compromise.

Tell us a little bit about your menu.  Did you add any Lowcountry elements?

The food was catered by Good Food Catering and it was phenomenal!!!  I wanted all Southern food so we had crab cakes, barbecue, sweet potato fries, ham biscuits and shrimp and grits to name a few.  I wish I could have just stuffed my face the whole night!  It was the best wedding food I've ever had!!!! We also had a signature cocktail which was a merry mojito.  James' favorite drink is a mojito and I asked to add berries to it so it could be pink like our wedding colors

Looking back on your engagement and wedding, is there any advice you would give to brides in the planning process?

Definitely give yourself enough time to plan everything but not so much time that it drags on and on.  If you have certain ideas and visions for your wedding, do lots of research and don’t give up!  The internet will become your best friend!!!

Lowcountry Wedding Vendors

photographer: christine legrand photography  /  planner: by invitation only

caterer: good food catering  /  venue: prospect hill plantation

Lowcountry Weddings {Flower Girls + Ring Bearers}

Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend.  October is the height of wedding season in Charleston, so as you can imagine, quite a few Lowcountry Weddings were celebrated this past weekend and we hope they all went off without a hitch!  I'm a little jealous some of you are probably still in weekend mode cozied up in bed on this dreary, drizzly Columbus Day while the rest of us are at work. 

Today I'm sharing my favorite attire options for your wedding's little darlings.  The ring bearers and flower girls are like the bridal party's perfect accessory.  It's imperative they flow with the rest of the group and decor.  From Hilton Head whimsical to Myrtle Beach waterfront and Charleston chic and Big City, Southern Glam, you'll find a fabulous selection of little ones dressed to the nines.

Image via Kate Headley

Image via Jessica Claire

Image via Style Me Pretty

Image via Becky Young Photography

 

Image via Jose Villa and Style Me Pretty

Image via Maggie Conley Photography

How adorable are these dapper gentleman from this stunning Lowcountry Wedding?

Image via Virgil Bunao

Image via Just DeMutiis

Image via Marianne Wilson

Images via Mike Larson Photography Green Wedding Shoes

Image via Garrett Nudd Photography

Image via Lauren Brooks Photography

Image via Elizabeth Anne Designs

Image via Martha Stewart Weddings

Image via Nordica Photography

Image via Jose Villa

Image via Jose Villa

Image via Millie Holman

Image via Kay English Photography

Image via Stephen DeVries

Images via Smitten Photography

Patricia + Josh {Galveston, Texas Engagement}

I know everyone says that on your wedding day it's all about you but it's not...and I don'tnecessarily think it should be.  It's about you, your hubby-to-be and your families.  It's about celebrating bringing two families together and also making your own.  That's why I love when couples incorporate their kids (or pets!) into their engagement sessions.  With the help of Love Caryn Photography, this sweet duo, Patricia + Josh, took to Stewart Beach in Galveston, Texas bright and early to take advantage of the perfect morning light.  With them, they brought

their beautiful twin girls and darling 7 month old baby boy for a timeless family affair.

Michelle + Sam {Auburn Engagement Session}

I really love college football season.  I love the atmosphere, tailgating, cornhole, finding the perfect gameday dress, bloody marys, waking up to ESPN's Gameday and....Kirk Herbstreit :)  This past week the entire state of South Carolina's been a-buzz with both Carolina and Clemson ranking in the top 25 AND sporting 4-0 records.  Well tomorrow, the Gamecocks are hoping for a win as they take on the defending National Champions Auburn Tigers in front of the home crowd. In honor of the big game, we're featuring a classic Auburn engagement session from Scobey Photography that is sure to give you a healthy dose of SEC football...well, until tomorrow that is!  The couple, Michelle + Sam, spent the day on their Alma Mater's campus making sure they hit all the hotspots.  With the Auburn band as their backdrop and dressed from head-to-toe in their school colors, the wrapped up the day preparing to cheer on the Tigers with the rest of the spirited crowd! 

WAR EAGLE!

 

 

  

  

Oh, hey Cam Newton!

  

Tori + Adam {Watersound Beach Club Wedding}

Good morning!  Who's excited it's Thursday?!  Today we're sharing Tori + Adam's Destination Nuptials.  While the couple resides in Charlotte, Tori is a Florida girl and immediately knew she needed to head back to the coast for her big day.  Being an event planner, Tori got right to planning all the details.  The couple decided the Watersound Beach Club would be the perfect setting to host their guests and who better to capture all the memories than Pure7Studios and Diva Productions. 

Tell us a little bit about how you met your husband...

Adam and I met through mutual friends. I was new to Charlotte and wasn't interested in dating anyone and you know what they say when you aren't looking someone will come sweep you off your feet and Adam did just that. The first night Adam and I met we stayed up talking till 5 in the morning about anything and everything.

How did he propose?  How long were you engaged for? 

We were walking through the park in uptown Charlotte, we stopped on top of the bridge to look over the pond, I turned around and Adam was down on one knee. It was the perfect setting with the city lights in the background.

We had a very short engagement, 3 months to be exact. I had a notebook full of wedding ideas that I would see at weddings or would think of and just know that I would want that in my wedding. So it was really easy to plan our wedding.

Out of the entire day, what was the most memorable moment?

The most memorable moment of the day would have to be walking down the beach with my dad to my future husband and seeing all the our friends and family there supporting us.

What’s your favorite picture from your wedding?

Our favorite picture is a toss up between two, but ultimately I have chosen the picture that best describes Adam and I and our wedding party. Adam and I like to have a fun personality and are always laughing and having a good time, this was the only picture I requested Ryan to take. After a bunch of attempts we got everyone in the air.

*just a sidenote...the two guys on the end are seriously cracking me up

This is my favorite...Tori looks stunning.

What made you choose Watersound Beach Club? What elements drew you to it?

I chose Watersound Beach Club in Florida, it is not only beautiful location but on my summer breaks from college I would work there as the event director. Other elements that drew us to this location was that our guests could stay close to the venue in houses we rented for them.

Your wedding was filled with gorgeous details.  Did any have special meaning? What was your favorite?

Once we picked the date I knew vendors to go to. Ryan, with Pure 7 Studios took my senior pictures when he first started taking pictures so I didn't even consider anyone else. I have been working with Briane and Hillary with Monark Events for the past 3 years; we worked together on the design aspect of the venue. Instead of relaxing the morning of the wedding I was putting together centerpieces and bouquets adding my touch to everything. Brian, with BBoy Productions did the music and effects for our church so I knew he would have our guests dancing the night away, which they did. I have been obsessed with Tiffany &Co. every since I knew what it was, so having "tiffany blue" dresses with pops of coral was a no brainer.

Although everyone made the night magical, my favorite was helping my vision come alive. I loved getting my hands dirty and sweating the morning of the wedding. It was my time to mentally relax before the big night.

Tell us a little bit about your menu...

We decided on a buffet dinner with passed appetizers during cocktails hour. We had a little bit of everything all prepared on site by Chef Brian. We had chicken, fish, crab cakes, fried oysters, grilled veggies, a hummus bar. Our guests didn't have a negative thing to say about the food and kept going back from more.

Looking back on your engagement and wedding, is there any advice you would give to brides in the planning process?

My advice would be even though it is your wedding for the two of you, your future husband just wants you to make you happy and will have little or no say in what flowers or grand exit you will take. In the end the wedding is about the two of you and to not sweat the small stuff.

Vendors

photographer: pure7studios  /  event designer: monark events  /  reception venue:  watersound beach club  /  cinema and video: diva productions  /  dj: b-boy productions, inc.  / 

Kaci + Nigel {Marina Inn at Grande Dunes Wedding}

Yesterday we featured darling bride-to-be Kaci as she prepared for her big day.  We shared her beautiful bridal session followed by the couple's sweet beachside engagement session.  Now, we've got the final piece of the puzzle...Kaci + Nigel's Lowcountry Wedding!  Shot by the amazing Gillian Reinhardt of Carolina Studios, the couple wed at the breathtaking Marina Inn at Grande Dunes.  You're going to love this stunning couple, picture-perfect scenery and all the lovely details...

   

Vendors

photographer: carolina studios by gillian reinhardt  /  venue: marina inn at grande dunes  / 

event planner: memorable moments event planning  /  caterer: grande dunes resort and pine lakes country club  /  floral designer: m. gladden designs  /  cinema and video:  hart to heart media  /   hair stylist:  myrtle beach hair styles  /  dress store: maddison row, the little white dress  /  cake designer:  priceless desserts  /  band:  soul function band  /  jewelry: symbols by chillico

Kaci + Nigel {Myrtle Beach Engagement Session}

For all of you who swooned over Kaci's Bridal Session this morning...just wait the posts keep getting better!  You may have noticed that Kaci is simply a doll and, once again, this precious Southern Belle did not disappoint when joined by her man for an oceanside engagement session.  The fabulous Gillian Reinhardt of Carolina Studios caught the darling duo looking happy and in love as Kaci donned a ruffly pink dress and Nigel sported a classic white polo and light blue pants.

Southern Weddings {Wreaths}

Today I've done a little round up on an assortment of different wedding wreaths.  To me, wreaths are like the grown up version of balloons on your mailbox...it screams 'The party's this way!' but in a more elegant tone.  Wreaths are the perfect welcome accessory.  They let your guests know what type of event is around the corner.  While a wreath full of gorgeous blooms never goes out of style, don't be scared to think a little outside of the box.  Maybe some cotton, succulents, baby's breath...or even macaroons!

Image by Lauren Brooks Photography via Style Me Pretty 

 

Images by Scott Piner Photography via Style Me Pretty and Bons Baisers de France

Images by Lisa Lefkowitz via Style Me Pretty

Image by Branch Design Studios via Juiet Elizabeth Photography

Images via A Charleston Bride by Jim Gund and  Southern Weddings

  

Images viaLauren Clay and  Gabriel Ryan 

Image by Scobey Photography via Style Me Pretty

 

Images by ...Blomsterverkstad  and Calder Clark

 

Images via Martha Stewart Weddings and Emmaline Bride

Image by Kim Fox Photography via Style Me Pretty 

Images by Ooh Events and Etsy 

Image by Branch Design Studios via Marni Rothschild 

 

Images by Caroline Tran via Style Me Pretty  and Trisha Dean Events 

  Images by La Vie Photography via Style Me Pretty and Ritzy Bee

Image by Scobey Photography via Style Me Pretty

Martina + Volker: Rheingau, Germany Wedding

I've got a little European treat for you today from Gasoline Photography :)  Martina + Volker were married this past summer in the breathtaking region of Rheingau, Germany.  Rheingau is known for its beautiful vineyards, gorgeous scenery and amazing wines..all of which the couple made sure to incorporate into their big day.  The reception took place at the stunning Burg Schwarzenstein Restaurant & Hotel (seriously, you have to take a look at this place).  This chic location provided a joyful atmosphere where the guests danced and dined into the evening hours.  They ended the night with a celebratory fireworks display over the vineyards.

Vendors

photographer: gasoline photography  /  dress designer: pronovias  /   floral designer: blumenmeer & mehr  /  reception venue: burg schwarzenstein  /  dj: mobydisc  /  shoes: lodi  / jewelry: bulgari

Arizona Wedding {Carmen + Tom}

It's Friday!  I don't know about you guys, but I woke up this morning and it was 58 degrees outside...where did that come from?  While I'm excited about the crisp Fall weather, I'm not quite ready to let go of Summer just yet.  So with that being said, today I'm going to squeeze in a sweet Arizona Wedding to cure my Summer blues.  Carmen + Tom tied the knot May 28th in Flagstaff, Arizona.  Carmen looked timeless in a classic J. Crew dress as she walked down the aisle in this low-key backyard ceremony.   With a purple and brown color palette, the couple we're able to achieve a laid back rustic vibe that seems to fit their personalities to a tee!  They couple even shot some hoops during their reception and if I had to guess, I'd say Carmen won (she's got wayyy better form)  Thanks to Arizona photo, Michelle Koechle for capturing these beautiful images...

Vendors

photographer: michelle koechle photography  /  dress: j. crew  /    reception venue: private residence 

Maureen + Brian {Southern Wedding}

It's no secret that I'm a big fan of the ladies of Stay Forever Photography based out of Palm Beach, Florida.  They consistently produce classically vivid images.   They're experts in getting all the detail shots and what I REALLY love about them is their ability to capture all the special moments.  The ladies recently shot Maureen + Brian's  Palm City, Florida and, once again, it did not disappoint.  The couple was engaged for a little over a year before tying the knot in a beautiful church ceremony that was followed the perfect coastal reception.  

I asked Maureen to join us today to tell us their love story...

Tell us a little bit about how you met your husband.  How long have you known each other?  Where did you meet?

Brian and I met under a very serendipitous occasion.  Neither of us had lived in Florida very long, and had only moved here to relax and get away for a bit.  There was a new restaurant starting up in town, and we had both secured kitchen positions.  Hundreds of people applied to work at this new restaurant, and we both made it.  As soon as I met him, I knew there was something special about it.  I went home and told my mom about him, and he went and told his sister about me!  We met a few days before Valentine’s Day, and starting dating April fool’s day.  He proposed to me a year later!

How did he propose?  How long were you engaged?

Our first official date was a walk on the beach after a rain storm had just passed.  The waves were huge that day, and jellyfish were strewn all over the beach.  We sat on the sand and just talked.  Nearly a year later, we took a walk on the beach- on our anniversary.  He said that he liked making memories with me- and I agreed.  And then he asked me if I wanted to make memories for the rest of our lives together, and he pulled out a beautiful ring.  And I simply said yes.  It was very intimate and special.  We were engaged for 14 months. 

Out of the entire day, what was the most memorable moment?

There are almost too many wonderful moments when I see the slideshow in my head of that day!!   I can remember my excited anxiousness as we arrived at the church.  I remember walking down the aisle with my dad, and feeling like a superhero, knowing that I was marrying the best person in the world.  I loved our Church ceremony- it was so beautiful, so soft, and just lovely.  If I have to pick one moment as my most memorable, I remember having our first dance, and looking into each other’s eyes and singing the lyrics softly just enough so that we were the only ones that could hear it.  Just wonderful! 

This is my favorite shot.  Maureen, first off, you are absolutely adorable and I love your expression in this image.  Secondly, I love how Brian is looking at her.  You can just see the love :)

What’s your favorite picture from your wedding?

I love this picture because it shows how wonderfully sweet Brian is.  He is so tender and loving in everything he does and it shows in my eyes how much I trust him.

 

How did you choose your venue?  What elements drew you to it?

We had first chosen and put a deposit down on a venue that is gorgeous.  But, the more I thought about it, and the logistics of everything, I became highly stressed out.  We started looking for other venues.  My parents live in a neighborhood with a golf course and yacht house.  It just made sense to go there instead.  It is located on a river, with gorgeous boats floating at the dock, the foliage around the building just boasts of south Florida charm, and the nautical touches inside made it masculine but not overpowering.   It was perfect. 

  

Your wedding was filled with gorgeous details.  Did any have special meaning?  What was your favorite?

Everything about the day had real sentiment to it.  All of my grandparents have passed away, so we tried to honor and remember them with certain things.  The earrings that I wore were from a ring that my grandmother had, and my mom had the diamonds constructed on a silver chain. Brian carried my grandfather’s blue handkerchief that was wrapped up with a necklace that his grandmother had.  Our wedding flutes were given to me by my sister that had come from Ireland- where my grandmother was from.  I wore a ring, borrowed that day from my Aunt, as a replica of my Nanna’s onyx and diamond ring.  Everything that was incorporated into our wedding had meaning for us.  The list could go on.  It is nearly impossible to pick a favorite because everything was so so special. 

Tell us a little about your menu. 

We were intent on having a wedding where people loved the food and would be talking about it for years.  We enlisted Chef John Carlino and his team to create a masterpiece of a day for us!  Our cocktail hour- which was two hours- was filled with Southern style food; mini BBQ pork sliders, Caribbean jerked shrimp, Red Strip soaked chicken skewers, Florida fresh ceviche, and, my favorite- a fruit bar.  Freshly cut fruit topped with coconut or soaked in alcohol atop an ice bed with palm frawns frozen into it.  Dinner ran the gamut from lamb chops to filet mignon, from Caribbean quinoa with fruit to freshly made pasta purses with goat cheese and pears.  To conclude the dining portion of the night, my wonderful friend, Alexandra Mudry created our cake in Washington, DC and transported it on the plane with her.  She constructed it while in Florida!!  It was AMAZING!!

Looking back on your engagement and wedding, is there any advice you would give to brides in the planning process?

No matter what, things will always arise that you do not expect to happen.  That happened for us, on more than one occasion throughout our year plus of organizing.  You just have to go with the flow, don’t freak out, and realize that it might be better for you/ the day anyway in the long run.  Come up with 2^nd and 3^rd plans.  That way you are never shocked, and can move on easily from it without stressing.  AND have fun at the wedding- it only lasts for one day- so soak it all up!!!

Vendors

photography:  stay forever photography  /  reception venue: palm cove golf and yacht club  /  dress designer: san patrick  /  dj: dj lynn mozena  /  shoes: badgley mischka