Myrtle Beach Weddings {Tiffany + Chris} Marina Inn at Grande Dunes

Let's face it, Lowcountry brides always know how to throw gorgeous, elegant Myrtle Beach weddings and the stunning Mrs. Wilcox is no different... and thank goodness for us, Gene Ho Photography was there to capture it all!  The oh-so-attractive couple, Tiffany + Chris, had a fabulous wedding at Myrtle Beach's Marina Inn at Grande Dunes last July, and boy, was it a stunner!  With the help of the ladies of Memorable Moments, who were on hand to organize every last dreamy detail, and the talented design team from Blossom Events, they were able to create a vibrant, summer evening that their guests are still raving about.  Thanks to Tiffany for giving us an inside view into their Myrtle Beach wedding!

How did you meet? At Enloe High School in Raleigh North Carolina, high school sweethearts!

Tell us your engagement story. (Give us every romantic detail!) We were home in North Carolina for the NBA All Star break visiting family. Valentine’s Day was that Sunday.  We flew back to Detroit on Valentine’s Day and didn’t get back until that evening.  Chris mentioned taking Tiffany out to dinner but she didn’t want to go, too many people.  So they ordered takeout and enjoyed the night in.  Tiffany gave Chris his Valentine’s Day present and the night went on.  We were watching a movie and Chris told me how he felt about me and how much he appreciated me and loved me.  He also told me he didn’t get me anything for Valentine’s Day.  I was a little upset but tried not to show it!  Later that night he gave me a box, I opened it and asked what is this.  He asked me to marry him and I cried like a baby! The proposal fit us perfect!

What are your ties to the Myrtle Beach area? Chris and I love Myrtle Beach.  A nice getaway that’s not too close but at the same time not too far from home! We have traveled and visited the area since we were in High School.  We thought there would be no better place to say, “I do!” We also support the Lupus Foundation due to him having a history of lupus in his family. With that being said, Chris has an annual golf tournament in Myrtle Beach to support and raise money in hopes to find a cure for the disease.

What was the best thing about your wedding day? The best thing about our wedding day was LOVE.  It was so strong and so powerful! It was romantic and everything was perfect!  You could feel the love that we both shared for each other.  There weren’t too many dry eyes at the ceremony!  There were so many people there but all I saw was him and all he saw was me!

Describe what made your wedding unique... Our wedding was unique because it was us! From the bold vibrant colors and hints of bling throughout the entire wedding (and stationary) representing Tiffany’s personality, to the food being some of Chris’ favorites!   Not to mention,  Chris’ groom’s cake, his car, a 1972 Chevelle sitting in the center of the Maryland Terrapins basketball court, it was amazing. We did not miss one detail!

MYRTLE BEACH WEDDING VENDORS

Wedding consultants/planners: Leslie Menich,  Memorable Moments Event Planning  /  Venue: Marina Inn at Grande Dunes  /  Cake and groom’s cake: Crumb de la Crumb  /  Flowers: Blossoms Events  /  Gown Designer: Alfred Angelo  /  Reception Dress: Ever After Private Label  /  Shoes Designer: Limited Edition Lesilla (Italy)  /  Bridesmaids’ dresses: Alfred Sung  /  Tuxedos: Men’s Warehouse  /  Groom’s: Custom Tux from Elevee, Los Angeles, CA  /  Headpiece: Blossoms Events  /  Veil: Bridal Couture of Birmingham  /  Hairstylist: Aminah-Ami Creations  /  Make-up: Nicole Peglow- peglowdesigns_(Miami, FL)  /  Stationery: Maria Scheel Invitations and More  /  Entertainment: Don Colton (saxophonist) and DJ Billy Bill (Raleigh NC)  /  Photographer: Nadean Bruehlman of Gene Ho Photography  /  Videography: Hart to Heart Media   /   Transportation provider: Groom’s Rolls Royce Phantom  /  Rentals/Linens: Cloth Connection  /    Hotz Catering  /  Snyder Event Rentals

Lowcountry Wedding Favors

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

South Carolina Engagement {Sherry + Jonathan}

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

Lowcountry Weddings {Garland}

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

Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration

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

Lowcountry Weddings {Summer Details}

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

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

Seersucker screams a Lowcountry summer

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

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

A little Burlap and Madras for your decor?

Why not...

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

Umbrellas not only provide shade but look adorable in ceremony pics

Flip flops for dancing? Yes, please!

Spice it up with Lawn Games.

We're loving this Cornhole set!

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

Myrtle Beach Weddings {David + Cari}

It's no secret we love the gals of Memorable Moments and the stunning Myrtle Beach weddings they design, but what we love even MORE is sharing them with you!  They're a fabulous Lowcountry planning team specializing in event design and coordinating in the Grand Strand, and were the brains behind Cari + David's vibrant, Myrtle Beach wedding.   Scott Smallin Photography was on hand to capture the entire event at the beautiful Ocean Palms Beach House where guests were treated to a sweet, outdoor ceremony overlooking the pool, followed by beach-y, lowcountry cuisine catered Tommy Bahamas.  The bridesmaids were dressed in jazzy LulaKate gowns, while Cari looked stunning in a strapless gown from Impressions Bridal.   But honestly, my favorite part about this wedding is the AH-mazing flowers from Little Shop of Flowers!  The colors and textures are bright and relaxed and couldn't be more fitting of a Myrtle Beach affair!

How did you meet?

David and I worked together in the operating room at a local hospital.  We liked working with one another, constantly talking to each other, which in turn made work more enjoyable. We worked well together as a team and found it easy to get to know one another.  Early in 2009, we were both going through some personal issues in each of our lives and confided in each other.  Together we got through some pretty tough times and became close friends.  I remember working with him one Super bowl Sunday and we ended up staying around talking to each other for hours after we were done working.  I think it was then that I realized that he and I had a lot in common.  After each of us sorted through what was going on in our lives, we began to spend time together outside of work.  We began dating and realized we were a good fit!  We shared many of the same beliefs, have  many of the same goals, and have so many common interests.  I  pretty much fell in love with David immediately and knew that I wanted to spend the rest of my life with him.  He is an amazing person and an incredible role model and stepfather.

Tell us your engagement story. (Give us every romantic detail!)

David and I had scheduled vacation time for August 2010 and planned on getting married during that week off.  So, I really never expected any “formal” proposal.  One day in July 2010, David took me to lunch at a small restaurant in the Hammock Shops in Pawley’s Island.  It was a restaurant that he and I had gone to during one of our first dates.  He was distracted through lunch, but I really didn’t think anything of it.  After lunch, we went to Brookgreen Gardens, one of our favorite spots in Myrtle Beach.  We were sitting on a bench in Oak Tree Alley talking and laughing.  When I turned around to look at David, he was down on one knee and asked me if I would marry him.  He had bought me a sapphire ring which was a complete mirror image of an engagement ring that we had looked at before.  We still got married in a small civil ceremony on August 2, 2010 but knew that we wanted a wedding where we could share our joy with our friends and family in a religious ceremony, which we did on October 15, 2011.

What are your ties to the Myrtle Beach area?  

After completing his residency at Emory University in Atlanta in 2005, David moved here to join a private practice.  My parents retired to Myrtle Beach in the spring of 2006 and I moved here from Pennsylvania the fall of that same year.

Describe what made your wedding unique...

We wanted our wedding to be casual with a very tropical “feel” to it.  It was also important to us to incorporate my children in the ceremony.  After discussing it with our Pastor, we decided on a “recognition of civil marriage”.  We included a sand ceremony that incorporated Athan and Allie in the ceremony, since we realize that they, too, are a very significant part of this unity.  To incorporate an island feel, we had a steel drummer perform both the ceremony music and the reception music.  I also wanted all tropical flowers used and my florist was able to have flowers that were imported from all over, including, Southeast Asia, Ecuador and Hawaii.  My mother’s birthday is also October 15^th so we had a special birthday cake for her, as well.  Also, it was important to me to do something really special for David so I had a special Groom’s cake made for him and presented at the rehearsal luncheon.  I had a cake designed that incorporated all the things that are important to him – a grand piano, an acoustic guitar, a banner with the Emory University logo, a fly fishing rod and our dog.  It’s always hard for me to keep a secret, but I managed to keep this from him until I presented it to him.

What was the best thing about your wedding day?

The best thing about my Myrtle Beach wedding was the fact that David and I were able to share our happiness with our family and friends.  We were able to have a casual wedding and it truly felt like we were on a tropical island.  I would have to say that my wedding day was everything that I could have ever dreamt of!

MYRTLE BEACH WEDDING VENDORS

Photographer: Scott Smallin Photography  /  Event Designer: Memorable Moments    /  Cake Designer: Croissants Bistro & Bakery  /  Flowers: Kelly Byers Hoagland of Little Shop of Flowers  /  Gown Designer: Impressions Bridal from Fancy Frocks and Other Fineries  /  Bridesmaids’ dresses: LulaKate  /  Hair and Makeup: Ami Creations  /  Music/Entertainment/Booking Agency: Pan Fusion steel drums – Tim Peterman  /  Clergy: Rick Adkins – Lead Pastor of Carolina Forest Community Church  /  Ceremony and Reception Venue: Ocean Palms Beach House through Palmetto Properties /  Caterer: Tommy Bahamas Restaurant  /  Rental providers: Bravo! Rentals

Neon Wedding Details

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

Lowcountry Wedding Cakes

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

Lowcountry Wedding Chair Decor

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

Myrtle Beach Engagement by Carolina Studios by Gillian Reinhardt

I can't believe it's already May.  After months and months of patiently waiting for warm, summer weather, I've quickly been reminded that my hair and humidity don't mix well...at all.  But, I'll gladly take a little frizz as long as that means it's beach season!  I adore the coast (and I know all of you Lowcountry brides feel the same way!) and I love when couples incorporate a little salt water and sand into their wedding engagement sessions.  Well, Myrtle Beach couple Caitlin + Scott did just that!  Along with the help of our friend Myrtle Beach wedding photographer Carolina Studios by Gillian Reinhardt, the sweet duo spent a beautiful Lowcountry afternoon with their pooch at The Myrtle Beach Market Common before heading to the shore...

Myrtle Beach Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Carolina Studios by Gillian Reinhardt

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Dying for even more Lowcountry wedding inspiration!?  We'll don't worry, we've got more where that comes from!

Historic Downtown Charleston wedding engagement from Carolina Studios

Myrtle Beach Wedding at Grande Dunes from Brooke Christl Photography

Dunes Golf & Beach Club wedding from Paula Player Photography

Lowcountry Wedding {Bridesmaids Dresses}

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

Ring Bearers + Flower Girls {Wedding Attire}

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

Sarah + Tyler {Virginia Wedding}

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

Spring + Summer Bouquets {Wedding Details}

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

Southern Wedding Vintage Inspiration by Chris Cornwell Photography

Oh, my! Never before have I wanted to don gorgeous red locks so badly until I laid my eyes on this garden themed inspiration shoot from Chris Cornwell Photography.  This natural shoot is full of wedding day inspiration and includes a soft, whimsical color palette of blush pink and creams with an irresistible vintage ease.  So, as I pick my jaw up off the ground, please feel free to get your swoon on with these stunning images...

 Southern Wedding Vendors

PHOTOGRAPHER:  Chris Cornwell Photography  /  SHOES: Feather Your Nest  /   HANKY: PJ’s Attic  /  BEADED NECKLACE, SALT SHAKER, MUSICAL FIGURINES: Feather Your Nest  /  BRIDE ART: Feather Your Nest  /  DISHES: Casafina from Home & Garden Store  /  SILVERWARE: Something Borrowed  /  LINENS, DISHES & BIRD VASES: Home and Garden Store  /  VENUE: Private residence  /  FLORALS: Fresh cut hydrangeas from the garden & pale pink lilies MODEL/ BRIDE/MAKEUP ARTIST: Jemma Merrifield Gayheart   /  HAIR: Kayla Holbrook of Karma Spa and Salon, /  DRESS:  Alfred Angelo  /  EVENT STYLIST: Davida Patrick

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?!

Mint Wedding Inspiration

It's no secret that mint is this wedding season's 'it' color and I couldn't be more excited.  We're kind of obsess with mint wedding inspiration.  I've always loved how this soft, sweet color pairs well with any Springtime pastel shade.  If you're planning a timeless, dainty affair then make sure to check out our darling round up of the perfect ways to keep your wedding minty fresh!