Dusty + Travis {California Wedding} Michelle Johnson Photography

Oh, hey Friday! I've been waiting for you to get here all week!  With the unseasonably warm winter we've been having, I felt like today would be the perfect day to share a vibrant California wedding.  Dusty + Travis became man and wife this past June and their photographer, Michelle Johnson, shared a few sweet details...

" Dusty and Travis have the sweetest love. They adore the country and they put the sweetest details into their do it yourself wedding day. From the rustic signs, to the sweet love cake display, this wedding was magical. The bride Dusty entered the private estate on a horse drawn carriage. The vintage dresser at the end of the aisle was filled with family photos and candles. The hand made seating chart was absolutely adorable. This country wedding was just beautiful."

Anne Marie + Ryan {Carnton Plantation Wedding}

I may be a little biased, but in my opinion, you just can't beat a big Southern plantation wedding.  They're always dripping with tradition and timeless beauty and Anne Marie + Ryan's Nashville Soiree was no different.  The bride wore a stunning lace gown while her groom looked dashing in a classic tuxedo.  After a traditional church ceremony, they moved the party to the magnificent Carnton Plantaton in Franklin, Tennessee.  The grounds of the historic plantation made for the perfect backdrop as Evin Photography was able to capture some private moments between the newlyweds.  Social Ambitions Events orchestrated a fabulous event with the help of some of Nashville's finest wedding vendors; Nashville Event Lighting, Music City Tents & Events, Sharp Garden Center and Sweet Temptations.

Southern Wedding Vendors

Photographer:  Evin Photography  /  Event Planner:  Social Ambitions Events  /

Floral Designer:  Sharp Garden Center and Gifts  /  Reception Venue:  Carnton Plantation  /  Cake Designer:  Sweet Temptations  /  Band:  Scat Springs Entertainment  /  Lighting:  Nashville Event Lighting  /  Equipment Rentals:  Music City Tents & Events

Place Settings {Wedding Details}

Every Tuesday, we like to give all of our Charleston brides a healthy dose of some wedding day fabulous-ness.  Today, we're sharing some of our favorite images of place settings to hopefully inspire some of our brides-to-be while planning your big day.  Below, you'll see some brides went big with some bold colors and patterns, others kept it simple with a more neutral palette...but all of them made quite the statement.  Don't ya think!?!

Image via Style Me Pretty

Imae via Simply Hue

Image via Style Me Pretty

Image via Ritzy Bee

Image via Brooklyn Bride

Image via Ruffled

Images via Style Me Pretty and Once Wed

Image via This is Glamorous

Image via Once Wed

Image via Style Me Pretty

Image via Martha Stewart Weddings

Image via Style Me Pretty

Maggie + Mike {Burke Manor Inn Wedding}

Beautiful bride Maggie tied the knot to her handsome husband, Mike, this past summer in an intimate ceremony on the grounds of North Carolina's Burke Manor Inn where Faces in Focus Photography was on hand to capture the entire day.  Maggie was kind enough to fill us in on all the details of her darling Southern Wedding!

Tell us a little bit about how you met your husband... My husband and I met on Match.Com…. Yup it really does work. I feel in love with a picture where the sun was in his eyes. That bald head of his was really the magic ticket. Honestly it does help that he is a sexy man, but his words in the profile he wrote went straight to my heart.

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

Mike proposed to me at Winter Green Ski Resort this past January. Martin Luther’s King’s birthday. A year prior he took me there as my first time ever to ski. I broke my ring finger. This January as we started to get all of our gear on he told me to wait a minute.. He walked into the bedroom came around the corner bent down on one knee and asked me to marry him. And I quote this is his proposal “even know that you are a pain in my ass, I love you more than life itself and cannot imagine my life without by my side” Will you marry me? AS I stand there in my ski wear with face and head gear on and he could not see my face. Only my eyes I was floored. Yeah we spoke of rings etc…. but never did I expect that. We were engaged for 7 months before we said our dos. And keep in mind that on our wedding day of August 27^th we had a hurricane, Days prior a heart quake and one week to the day my father had a heart attack where he got two stints but in, but was still there to give me away and we had our very first dance EVER.

Your wedding was filled with gorgeous details. Did any have special meaning? What was your favorite? The flowers had special meaning. The girl who did them lived outside the box as I asked her to do. I gave her a clear canvas to show her talents but at the same time my touch. The flowers were done in Japanese lettering to match my shoulder tattoo. It means double happiness and love. And those are what we stood on when we said our own vows to each other. We did a sand ceremony as well that I wrote myself and the class that we poured our sand in matched the flowers and my tattoo.

How did you choose your venue? We choose the B&B to be sure that all of our family was together and not spread apart. As they come from far and in between we wanted our family close and to share memories and to make new ones.

Tell us a little bit about your menu... Well I am a very picky eater. And our family and friends all love meat and potatoes. So we had prime rib, salad, mixed garden veggies and a potato bar with all the fixings. It was delicious. There are still people talking about the food and it as over three months ago. We had wine imported in from our engagement night that we later found out that is not easy to find. We had NY wine sent to us as well. Each had a meaning and those were shared with everybody.

What’s your favorite picture from your wedding? My favorite pic is where my father and I are dancing. As I said that was the very first time I ever danced with him and considering he had a heart attack one week prior to that. Well I just about didn’t get that chance of a life time. My father raised me from 15 years old until the time I was 17 by himself. Until I gave him a shot of courage to ask someone out who now is my step mother. Yes, I hooked my dad up…

Out of the entire day, what was the most memorable moment? Out of the entire day... sitting here with tears in my eyes as I type this is that I shared special, priceless moments with my father. We danced to Britney Spears all the way to Pit Pull. His hands in the air and feet off the ground he never skipped a beat and told me that it was the best day of his life. My dreams weren’t just answered or my blessings didn’t stop when god gave me a guardian angel with Mike…. They continued when he spared my dad’s life to give me memories that only very few of us ever get a chance to have with their fathers. If you knew more about me you would clearly understand why my dad is my world. And the best memorable moment with Mike was when cake went down the front of my halter wedding dress between my cleavage and he went right in after it in front of god and everybody. That was a memory that I don’t just have it is also on DVD…..

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

Take one day at a time. Don’t let anybody talk you into something that you or your soon to be husband doesn’t want. And enjoy it. It goes by way to fast. Remember it is about both of you and nobody else. So do what makes you happy and what is meaningful to the both of you. After all this is the first party as husband and wife that you are giving so make a hell of day.

Vendor

Photographer:  Faces in Focus Photography  /  Ceremony and Reception Venue: Burke Manor Inn  /  Designer/Planner: The bride!  /  Invitations: Juliepatolies  /  Cake: Carolina Cake  /  Flowers: Eleventh Hour  /  Bridal Gown: David's Bridal  /  Hair & Makeup: Hair done by Jillian Cannon and Make up by Stacy Sharerrill  /  Entertainment: Island Sound  /  Transportation: My brand new 2011 JK. (Jeep) I bought it just so my gown wouldn’t get dirty….. Honest!!

　

Krista + Dave's Montaluce Winery Wedding via Liz Yeakle Photography

 I'm so glad it's Friday!    I feel like this has been the longest week ever.  To get the weekend started right, I've got a fabulous Southern wedding to share with you.  Krista + Dave tied the knot this past Summer at the swanky Montaluce Winery in the North Georgia Mountains.  Krista looked stunning with a relaxed up-do from J. Thomas Salon, a gorgeous gown with lace detail from Charme Bridal and the perfect pair of sandals.  Jars of Flowers created the floral arrangements and Krista's amazing bouquet.  After becoming Mr. + Mrs, the pair toured the grounds of the picturesque winery where photographer Liz Yeakle captured some seriously frame-able images.  At the reception, they treated their guests to beautiful views of the winery, a mouth watering meal and a gorgeous cake from Frosted Pumpkin. 

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

Dave is quite the romantic…..Every month, there is a grade level meeting at my school. Dave and I were now teaching at different schools. I showed up to our monthly meeting and read the agenda. It stated that there would be a guest speaker from our “sister school” (where Dave taught). I really didn’t think anything of it, until when the guest speaker was Dave! He walked into our meeting and started a PowerPoint presentation about “student recognition.” Each slide lead more into how creating a family with trust and love is important. At the end, there was a huge heart on the screen that read “I found my true love.” He walked over (in front of 40 other people!) and got down on one knee and asked me to marry him. He had already talked to my principal, and had got a sub for me for the rest of the day. There was a limo waiting for me at school, and he took me to the Sundial restaurant, which looks over the city of Altanta. We were engaged for 11 months!

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

The most memorable moment was when my wedding party had left the bridal suite to walk down the aisle and I was waiting with my Dad. We were standing in front of a giant, wooden door, and the time seemed to be passing so slowly. My dad whispered to me “I can feel your mom, she’s here.” When he said that, I could feel her there, and as I walked down the aisle, I felt that I walked down with both my parents

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

My mom passed away when I was in high school, and I wanted to do something to remember her, but not have it too sad. To start the ceremony, our guitarist (Austin Adams) played the instrumental version of “Please remember Me” by sara mclaughlin. As he played the song, my mom’s sister walked down and lit a candle that had the “Lords Prayer” enscribed in it. My favorite part was that Dave and I wanted to keep the ceremony simple and personal; so, instead of having readings from the bible read, I picked two of my closest, childhood friends to write and read a personal message. They did a great job! They wrote a combination of personal stories, song lyrics, and ended it with a verse from the bible. During the reception, we decided to have a photo table. I brought in wedding pictures from both my side and Dave’s side. Moreover, we brought in childhood pictures of Dave and I J 　

How did you choose your venue?

Dave and I spent many weekends up in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Georgia. We feel in love with the outdoor, simple life feel. We had researched some wineries up in that area, and fell in love with Montaluce Winery. When we went to meet with their wedding planner, I immediately fell in love and didn’t look at any other venue!

Tell us a little bit about your menu...

Dave and I had both Wisconsin and New York cheese for appetizers, along with Margarita flatbread Pizza.  We had a summer salad, bread, and a family style dinner. We had steak and fish as our main dishes, along with several sides (Sorry, I can’t remember all of them!)

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

Always go with what your heart is telling you, in the end it’s your wedding. Allow people to help, it can get overwhelming at times. The week before is the most stressful, be sure to get lots of sleep J Remember to enjoy the time with family, friends, and especially your fiancé, it goes so fast!

 Vendors

photographer: liz yeakle photography  /  hair stylist: j. thomas salon  /   flowers: jars of flowers  /  musician: austin woods  /  reception venue: montaluce winery  /  dress store: charme bridal  /  cake designer: frosted pumpkin  /   transportation: sojourn transportation  /  bridesmaids dresses: j.crew bridal

Becca + Kalani {California Engagement}

 Bride Becca and her photographer, Brittanee Taylor, decided they just had to put a fun twist on this California couple's engagement session.  Becca went all out with the perfect vintage-inspired hair and makeup by A Glamour Bride, a classic floral print dress, darling props and beautiful pink lips.  From there, Becca and her man-to-be, Kalani, moseyed on over to Frank G. Bonelli Park for a gorgeous Summer afternoon filled with swoon-worthy lighting and some amazing images.  We can't wait to see their wedding!

Ira + Andreas {Hotel Gutshof Wedding}

We couldn't pass up the chance to share Ira + Andreas charming European wedding in Salzgitter, Germany.  Their hometown affair was complete with perfect summer weather, a romantic Modeca gown, beautiful horses and a melodious gospel choir.  After the ceremony, Gasoline Photography was on hand to capture these soft, dreamy images of the newlyweds in the German countryside.  They treated their guests to a gorgeous reception at Hotel Gutshof full of fabulous food, colorful macaroons, a candy bar and a whole lot of dancing thanks to Powerslide Disco!

Vendors

Photographer: Gasoline Photography  /  Dress Designer: Modeca  /  Reception Venue: Hotel Gutshof  /   DJ: Powerslide Disco  /  Shoes: Rainbow  /  Men's Attire: Wilvorst  /  Jewelry: Christ

Kristen + Drake {Dunaway Gardens Wedding}

We're kicking off 2012 with this dreamy Georgia wedding from Kelly Is Nice Photography.  The couple, Kristen + Drake, were wed in a beautiful outdoor ceremony on the grounds of Dunaway Gardens in Newnan, Georgia.   The bride and her father walked down the aisle to a beautiful rendition of  Mark O'Connor's "Appalachia Waltz" from the Candlelight String Quartet.  Kristen is nothing short of stunning...I mean, I'm pretty sure she was a Disney princess in a past life, and she looked amazing in her strapless gown.  Kristen even created all of  the bouquets and boutonnieres herself which is quite a task!  The fabulous cake from Cakes by Dawn perfectly complimented the sweet vintage feel of the entire evening.

Vendors

photographer: kelly is nice photography  /  venue: dunaway gardens  /  caterer: chick fil-a  /  musicians: candlelight string quartet  /  cake designer: cakes by dawn  /  bridesmaids dresses: etain bridal boutique

Megan + Joel {Tennessee Wedding}

My out-of-office message is officially up, my car is packed and (almost) all my gifts are purchased and wrapped but before I head to Florida for the long Christmas weekend, I just had to share Megan's dreamy Southern wedding with you.  This past September, Megan and her groom, Joel, tied the knot in Knoxville, Tennessee at the stunning Pavillion at Hunter Valley Farms.  For the big day, she selected a fabulous preppy color palette of navy, green and pink.  The couple lucked out with perfect weather for their outdoor ceremony where Kristin from KLP Photography was on hand to capture all of the memorable moments.  After some gorgeous shots of the newly married couple, they joined their guests for a lively reception!

Vendors

photographer: klp photography  /  the pavillion at hunter valley farms

Britt Croft Wedding Photography Giveaway!

Our friend Brittani, of Britt Croft Photography, is in the midst of a huge wedding photography giveaway, and boy do I mean huge! (First place wins 8 hours of wedding day coverage, DVD, an online gallery AND an engagement session...yes,please!)  Entering is simple, just send Brittani an email telling her a little bit about yourself (see complete details here) and a sweet story about why you two deserve to win.  Myself and Sarah of Dodeline Design have been dealt the challenging task of helping Brittani determine the winner (and we couldn't be more excited)...so show us what you've got!

So here’s the nitty gritty:

To enter: Between December 19th and January 5th, send an email to britt@brittcroft.com with the subject: 2012 Wedding Giveaway and include the following information…

- You and your fiance’s name (or a friend and his/her fiance’s name! You can absolutely enter on a friend’s behalf so long as they are getting married in 2012! - A short but sweet story about you two as a couple, something that makes you unique, something funny or special, or just flat out why you deserve to win - Up to 3 photos of the two of you together - Wedding date & venue/location(s) - Just for fun: Your favorite way to spend your time together on the weekends? - Contact information (email and phone)

How it works: Up to five finalists may be chosen by Brittani, Erin from A Lowcountry Wedding, and Sarah from Dodeline Design based off of their story submitted. A blurb from each story accompanied by an image will be put into The 2012 Wedding Giveaway album on the Britt Croft Photography Facebook page, and you send your friends to “like” your image between January 10th and January 24th. Remember they must first “like” the Britt Croft Photography page! The picture with the most likes by 6 p.m. on January 24th wins, the picture with the second-most likes wins 25% savings, and the following morning, one finalist couple will be chosen for a free engagement session!

What you could win:

1. First Place: 8 hours of wedding day coverage with Brittani, an online gallery for sharing with friends and family, a DVD of all final high-res images (500-800) with a personal print release, a complimentary engagement session

2. Second Place: 25% savings on wedding day coverage and add on’s if booked within 3 months

3. All finalists: 10% savings on wedding day coverage if booked within 3 months and one free engagement session given away to a randomly chosen (using random.org) finalist couple

Rustic Winter Wedding Inspiration

Well, my holiday vacation officially started last night...which meant I had to sleep in this morning :)  So, sorry for the delayed post!  But, since we're in the Christmas 'home stretch', I just had to share this rustic winter wedding shoot from the talented twosome of McGowan Images and MegB Designs.  I know it's been unseasonable warm in our neck of the woods, but these images may just help put you in the holiday spirit! From the designer, Meagan Bechtel of MegB Designs:

"My idea for this shoot was really simple – I wanted to convey a beautiful winter wedding scene, without being overtly Christmas or using any holiday cliches. I tried to stick with a few basics – neutral colored china and linens, antiqued silver and mercury glass, various sizes of pinecones, and just a few touches of bright red. We were so lucky to be granted the use of a local Christmas tree farm, which was the perfect backdrop for this scene. When I’m designing, it’s helpful for me to think of what I what I already own, what I can probably borrow, and what I might be able to source cheap, or second-hand. That’s pretty much the basis for my philosophy: beg, borrow, or thrift. I guess my point is, you don’t need a lot of money to set up a fabulous-looking event, or table-scape. We did two table settings, a desert station, and styled a bride and groom, and did it for cheap - my final total for this shoot was less than a hundred bucks: $20 for the whoopie pies ingredients, $20 for the florals/materials, $15 for 5 yards of cotton muslin to recover the chairs cushions/cloth napkins, $10 for a few well-priced Goodwill finds, and about $20 for the candles, peppermints, cranberries, and rock salt. As I did on my own wedding day, I trusted McGowan Images to capture this shoot the way I imagined it. We talked about wanting it to feel wintery, but at the same time, warm and sun-drenched. That's the kind of Christmas you get in Central Texas. I think the images turned out even better than we were hoping for, and I hope they help inspire a cash-strapped bride to think outside the box for winter wedding design."

Don't you just love the bride and groom's accessories? That red jacket and scarf are just perfect.

Merry Christmas, yall!

 

Charleston Weddings {Statement Necklaces}

We've been loving how our Charleston brides are pairing their swanky designer dresses with fabulous statement necklaces.  Our Lowcountry ladies have been incorporating these bold pieces into their Southern wedding day attire and their personalities have really been shining through! Whether it's a little touch of vintage, a colorful chunky geometric piece, a fantastic strand of pearls or some serious bling, you'll be sure to be the belle of the ball!

Image via Style Me Pretty

      

Images via Style Me Pretty 

Image by Stay Forever Photography

 

Images via Neiman Marcus

 

Image by Erich McVey via Style Me Pretty

 

Images via Juliet & Company and Style Me Pretty

Image by Tec Petaja via Once Wed

Image by Juliet Elizabeth Photography via WED

Images via Adia Kibur and Kenneth Jay Lane

Image by Brooke Courtney Photography via Postcards and Pretties

Images Tamiz Photography and Style Me Pretty Image via Luxe Finds

 

Images via Style Me Pretty and Cameron Ingalls

Ashleigh + Shane {Biltmore Estate Wedding}

I'm so thrilled I finally get to share Ashleigh + Shane's fabulous North Carolina nuptials with you!  After becoming engaged at The Biltmore Estate, it was no question that Asheville's one-of-a-kind venue would have to host their wedding, as well.  If you've never been, you really must plan a trip to this breathtaking home.  With over 250 rooms, this immaculate mansion is the largest privately owned home in the States.  The grounds feature perfectly manicured lawns and gorgeous pristine gardens.  With that being said, it's really no wonder it has collected numerous accolades as one of the top wedding venues on the East Coast.  It's absolutely magical...and Ashleigh + Shane's Southern affair was no different!  The couple selected the Estate's Deerpark Restaurant to host their outdoor ceremony and romantic reception.  Ashleigh enlisted the talents of Christi Falls Photography and Honey Darling Events to assist and execute her perfect Summer wedding which incorporated a gorgeous palette of pink, coral and green.

Vendors

photographer:christi falls photography  /  planner: honey darling events  /  

ceremony and reception venue: deerpark restaurant at the biltmore estate  /  dj: spintastic sounds

Kirsten + Travis {Tennessee Engagement}

I don't know about yall, but down South we've been experiencing some pretty fabulous (and unseasonable) weather.  We're talking it's suppose to hit 70 degrees by the end of the week.  It's like heaven, I hope Fall never ends. Best. December. Ever.  So, today I thought I would share one of my favorite Autumn Engagements from KLP Photography.  I'm absolutely obsessed with these perfectly timeless and Southern images.  Not only are Kirsten + Travis adorable but they took full advantage of their Eastern Tennessee surroundings.  What's not to love about gorgeous horses, rustic barns and breathtaking views?

I mean, is this for real!?

 

Aisle Decor {Wedding Details}

This week we're highlighting another one of our favorite wedding details...aisle decor!  Whether you're tying the knot in a church or planning for an outdoor ceremony, there are plenty of ways to spice up your stroll to the alter.  From a classically Southern arrangement of white hydrangeas to a romantic evening aisle lit by candles, we're sure our round-up will provide you just the ceremony inspiration that you've been waiting for...

 Images via Luna and Chloe Weddings and Aaron Delesie via Style Me Pretty

 Image by Charleston vendor Branch Design Studios via Juliet Elizabeth Photography

 Images via Style Me Pretty

Image by Charleston vendor, Jennifer Bearden

 Images via Ruffled and Kristin Vining Photography via Style Me Pretty

 Image by Jen Rodriquez via Style Me Pretty

 Images by Aaron Delesie Photography and Rachel Barker Photography via Style Me Pretty

Image via Tanja Lippert Photography

 Images by Charleston vendor, Jennifer Bearden Photography and Yvette Roman Photography via Style Me Pretty

 Image via Charleston photographer Leigh Webber Photography

 

Images via Kate Headley Photographyby Charleston florist, Branch Design Studios and Charleston photographer Leigh Webber

  

Jennifer + Sean {Nashville Wedding}

With the help of some of Nashville's most sought-after wedding vendors, Jennifer + Sean tied the knot this past Fall. The couple hosted fifty of their closest friends and family at one of Nashville's premier wedding venues, CJ's Off The Square.  Evin Photography was on hand to capture Jennifer's simple, yet modern wedding with the perfect jewel-toned color palette that was executed by CJ's on-site wedding planner, Amy Parman.   The bride looked stunning in her Casablanca gown from The White Room that was accessorized with a fabulous pair of pink heels.  The maids sported blue, knee-length Alfred Sung dresses from Arzelles that were paired with vibrant bouquets from the Carriage House.  The entire bridal party looked flawless thanks to talents of Amy Lynn Larwig (makeup) and Melissa Taylor (hair).  

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

I met my husband at Kroger where I began working in 2005 . He was assigned to train me (set up by him and his manager) and we have been together ever since. It was our six and a half anniversary we when got married on October 9th.

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

In the summer of 2010, he took an internship in California for two months. He drove his car out there and I was flying out there to make to trip back to Tennessee with him. When I arrived in California, we had an entire day planned of sites to see since I had never been there.  We had been talking a lot about getting married and I even picked out my perfect engagement ring before he had left. I was REALLY hoping that he would propose to me at some point during our trip back home. We went to all the places we had planned to see and he said he wanted to take me to Venice beach. We got there and were walking along the beach when he stopped and gave me the longest hug ever. He then got on one knee and asked me to marry him. It was the PERFECT place to get engaged!

Jennifer's favorite image of the day...

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

I cannot say that there is one specific thing from my wedding that was perfect. I know that everyone says this, but I truly feel that every part of our wedding was perfect!

How did you choose your venue?

We wanted a small wedding with close family and friends. We knew that we wanted a venue that had a very intimate atmosphere and CJ's Off the Square in downtown was perfect! I also liked that at CJ's the ceremony and reception were at the same venue.

Color palette:  We chose a palette of jewel toned colors. There was blue, purple, and pink incorporated throughout the ceremony and reception site. We also used charcoal gray table clothes with white chairs and linens so that the rich colors in the table arrangements would stand out. We wanted a modern and simple atmosphere.

Tell us a little bit about your menu...

We wanted a menu that everyone could enjoy, so we chose to have eight heavy hors d'oeuvres.  I was afraid that if we went with a sit down dinner with only two options that some people would not like the food we had chosen.  Some hors d'oeuvres that we had were: spinach and artichoke dip, twice baked potatoes, meatballs, praline chicken tenders and fruit skewers.  Everyone seemed to love it and I think it was a good choice.

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

A special moment for me was seeing my grandfather at my wedding.  I honestly thought that his medical diagnosis would take him away before our October 9th nuptials.  It made me EXTREMELY happy to see him sitting there when I came down the stairs.  I was so thankful that he was physically able to be a part of our day!  I experienced a lot of memorable moments throughout our wedding.  I was excited to be marrying my best friend and the person that I cannot wait to spend the rest of my life with!!

 

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

I would say ENJOY your engagement!  The wedding day goes by EXTREMELY fast and I feel like I let the stress of planning a wedding interfere with enjoying our engagement time.  I also would suggest to choose a photographer that you want to be around you for your entire wedding day.  Our photographer, Evin Krehbiel, was AMAZING!

Vendors

Photographer: Evin Photography  /  Ceremony and Reception Venue: CJs off the Square  /  Designer/Planner: Amy Parman  /  Caterer: A Catered Affair  /  Lighting:  Nashville Event Lighting  /  Cake: Jessica Dean  /  Flowers: The Carriage House  /  Gown: Casablanca. from The White Room  /  Bridesmaids Dresses: Alfred Sung. from Arzelles  /   Hair: Melissa Taylor  /  Makeup: Amy Lynn Larwig  /  Entertainment: Jason Middleton  /   Transportation: My dad's 1969 Camaro

Alicia + Wade {Pensacola Wedding}

Alicia + Wade tied the knot this past June on the shores of Pensacola, Florida.  The couple and their bridal party prepped for the big day at the Margaritaville Beach Hotel where the award-winning photographer team from Studio One Eleven Inc. caught some fabulous images!  Alicia dazzled in a strapless gown complimented by a stunning bouquet while her maids rocked dresses in varying shades of purple.  Wade and his men looked dapper in white.  After the perfect sunset ceremony, the couple and their guests headed to the Sanders Beach-Corinne Jones Community Center to kick off the evening's festivities.  Alicia left the decor to the talented staff at Southern Floral Traditions, who completely transformed the venue.  What a beautiful (and fun) wedding!?!

 

 

 Vendors

photographer: studio eleven one inc.  /  hair stylist: studio 7 salon, trends salon  /  caterer:  becky's eatery  /  floral designer: southern floral traditions  /   reception venue: sanders beach-corinne jones community center  /  cake designer: confection perfection  /  dj:  everything and the wedding too  /  makeup artist: john dye  /  tuxedo and men's attire: men's wearhouse  /  officiant: pastor patrick waters  /  hotel: margaritaville beach hotel

Marsae + Matthew {Charleston Engagement}

Every girl hopes, wait...dreams, that when she's proposed to her husband-to-be will make sure it's a story worth re-telling, and that's exactly what Marsae's man Matthew did.  He made it an engagement any Lowcountry bride would revel in.  Marsae had her heart set on a Christmas engagement and when the holiday season passed without a proposal she had all but given up hope....which was the perfect opportunity for Matthew!  He contacted the talented Kelly Sauer in early January and revealed his plans to invite Marsae to join him for a "business trip" to Charleston.  The scheming twosome decided Kelly would hide out at Charleston's picturesque Waterfront Park to catch Matthew's emotional proposal and Marsae's priceless reaction.  After seeing these images, I think hiring a photographer should be a must for any guy planning an engagement...I mean, who wouldn't want to have this moment forever captured on film?

 

Say hi to Kelly!

Southern Weddings {Boutonnieres}

I consider myself a decent speller, but the word 'boutonniere' throws me every time...so, I usually just stick with the term 'bouts'.  A 'bout' is simple and cute (it comes from the French term 'buttonhole') and doesn't put my spelling ability to the test...problem solved!  You'll usually find them as a single bud, sometimes a gathering of 2-3, adorned with leaves or foliage and secured by a simple ribbon.  The color scheme of a bout ties in seamlessly with the rest of the wedding and tends to match the bride's bouquet.  We've collected Part II (see Part I here!) of our favorites that range from modern to vintage and simple to ornate.  Don't you just love how these little guys perfectly accessorize our Southern fellas.

Image via Once Wed

Image via Paige Winn 

 

Image via Ruffled and Style Me Pretty

Image via Inspired Bride

 

Image via Honey and Poppies 

Images via Ruffled and Style Me Pretty

Image via Style Me Pretty

Images via Desi Baytan Photography and Melissa Schollaert Photography

 

Image via Tara Guerard

 

Image via Anna Be Bridal Boutique

Images via Style Me Pretty

 

Image via The Knot

Image via Honey and Poppies 

 

Images via Style Me Pretty Boutonniere from Sara York Grimshaw via Leigh Webber 

 

Images by Jose Villa via Style Me Pretty

 

Lindsey + Adam {Florida Engagement}

Lindsey + Adam's Tallahassee Engagement Session is so awesome that it took two days to complete!  Dressed in their stylish vintages duds, the soon-to-be-newlyweds met up with Florida photographer, Shutter Pop Photo, for part one at the Train Station. Throughout the day, Adam kept the crew laughing and his darling bride smiling as they explored the tracks.  St. Mark's National Wildlife Refuge and lighthouse set the stage for the second portion of the session.  With their blanket and picnic basket in tow, Lindsey + Adam were able to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery and gorgeous sunset.

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