Aqua + Red {Wedding Details}

While I'm usually not a huge fan of the color red, even though I will rock it all football season long (Go Dawgs!), I almost died when I found this darling little frock while perusing the internet the other day.  I love it.  The print, pattern...everything.  It's so vibrant and cheery which is exactly why this fun red and aqua color palette is always a huge hit at a big Charleston wedding!  Check out our round up of our favorite red + aqua wedding details...which one's your fav?

Images via Design Seeds, Pintrest, Brooklyn Cake, Katie's Kitchen, Paula's Palace

Images via Jonathan Canlas, The Inspired Bride, Skonahem, Oh, So Beautiful Paper, Green Wedding Shoes

Part I: Lowcountry Plantations

We've received numerous emails and tweets from newly engaged brides asking for our recommendations for local, Lowcountry plantations.  From Hilton Head to Charleston and  up to Myrtle Beach, we're blessed with a wealth unforgettable wedding venues.  So to assist our darling brides in the wedding venue selection process, we'll be compiling a list and highlighting a handful of properties on a weekly basis until the round up is complete!  Let's get started...

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Middleton Place

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Built in 1755, this picturesque estate is the perfect backdrop to include in your wedding weekend. Sitting on 65-acres of immaculately landscaped gardens, Middleton Place offers multiple venue options, luscious scenery and a glimpse into Lowcountry history.

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Middleton Place

4300 Ashley River Road

Charleston, SC 29414

843.556.6020

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Rose Hill Mansion

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Tucked away, deep in the Lowcountry, construction on the Rose Hill Mansion dates back to pre-Civil War days.  Located in Bluffton, South Carolina (just outside of Hilton Head), this charming Gothic Revival home combines an abundance of live oaks dripping with Spanish moss to provide a breathtaking site for  one-of-a-kind wedding ceremonies and receptions.

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Rose Hill Mansion

199 Rose Hill Way

Bluffton, South Carolina

843.757.6046

robinwhite@hargray.com

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Charleston Tea Plantation

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In the heart of our beloved Lowcountry, on South Carolina's own Wadmalaw Island, you will find the home of America's only Tea Plantation.  With it's enchanting atmosphere and tranquil setting, the fields, front porch and "wedding tree" of Charleston Tea Plantation can accommodate groups of all size for a magical Charleston wedding evening.

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Charleston Tea Plantation

6617 Maybank Highway

Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina 29487

843.559.0383

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For Wedding information contact:

 Jane Knight

 843.559.0383 Ext. 207

jknight@rcbigelow.com

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Old Wide Awake Plantation

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Nestled near the Stono River, this inviting wedding venue lends itself to a relaxing evening in the Lowcountry.  With rolling hills, polo fields, spacious porch and live oaks, Charleston's Old Wide Awake Plantation allows for a variety of on-site ceremony options and a memorable reception.

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Old Wide Awake Plantation

5149 Trexlor Avenue

Hollywood, SC 29449

843.577.7129 Dennis Jarvis info@oldwideawakeplantation.com

Maddison Row + Heidi Elnora {Charleston Weddings}

As downtown's premiere bridal salon, Maddison Row offers Lowcountry brides a sophisticated experience complete with first-class service, top designers, timeless gowns and polka dots...lots of polka dots!   Located in the heart of the new design district, this quaint boutique is a must-see for any bride-to-be.

So, needless to say when we heard last week that Maddison Row will be hosting a Heidi Elnora trunk show on June 17th and 18th, we thought it sounded like a match made in Lowcountry Heaven.  Not only will Charleston brides have the opportunity to check out the new 2011 Heidi Elnora collection (see below), but they'll also have the opportunity to meet the sweet designer herself.

                       

We caught a glimpse of Heidi's designs this spring when she was the featured designer at Charleston Fashion Week's Bridal Show and we've been patiently waiting for her return to Charleston ever since!  Her 2011 collection provides Southern Belles with dreamy, feminine gowns complete with that Lowcountry ease...

All images by Leslee Mitchell

For more information check out Maddison Row's blog or contact them directly below:

171 Spring Street Charleston, SC 29403

(843) 720.7979info@maddisonrow.com

www.maddisonrow.com

Charleston Wedding {Puppy Attire}

I'm a sucker for any wedding that includes a dog.  After seeing all of these keepsake images of a bride with her dog(s), I kinda regret not having my little pup, Huckleberry, around the day of our wedding.  It was probably for the best since I'm sure he would have misbehaved (he's a jumper AND a licker).  I know some people think it's strange to dress up dogs but don't tell me you don't like it when they sport their formal attire.  We've rounded up quite a few wedding day pooches and dressed in their Sunday best and even provide our favorite place to find their perfect accessories!  I do love seeing a Lowcountry pooch in a bowtie!

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silly buddy...

Thanks to Charleston bride-to-be Jen, I found this awesome Etsy Shop, Silly Buddy.  Based out of Chicago, Silly Buddy provides a wide array of collars, leashes and bowties!  Check out the website to see sweet Buddy himself model the large variety of sizes, colors and patterns.   How precious is Buddy? Such a stud.

   

Follow Silly Buddy on Facebook and Twitter!

Hailey + Justin {Charleston Engagement}

I was planning on posting this next week but since Hailey is currently in Charleston taking care of some wedding details and nailing down some vendors, I thought today would be more appropriate.  Hailey and Justin are getting married next April and have booked the talented Stephen Blackmon to document their wedding day.  Recently, the fun lovin' couple met up with Stephen as he captured their sweet smiles on a picture perfect day...

Thanks for sharing.  Hope the planning goes well this week!

Charleston Weddings {Pretzel Station}

It might have a little bit to do with my past experience in catering but my favorite part of a wedding is ALWAYS the food.  How I see it, a Charleston wedding can be absolutely exquisite but if the food is blah or just flat out bad that will be the only thing guests take away from the evening.  On the other hand, if the food is out-of-this-world and they can experience items differently, either by presentation or taste, I can promise they will be raving about your big day for years to come.  I always love dreaming up menus that put a fun twist on an old favorite, so recently when I was snacking on a soft pretzel at a USC baseball game, it hit me...I love pretzels (of all shapes, sizes and flavors!) and I'd die for a late night pretzel station.  This is what I'm thinking...

Pretzel bites or miniature pretzels served warm in a variety of flavors like: original (all nice and buttered up!) cinnamon sugar, garlic or even stuffed like a little pizza with pepperoni and mozzarella.  For sauces: mustard, marinara, cheese and chocolate.  Present them in cute baskets (below) and have cups or pretzel bags available (that you can coordinate with your wedding colors) to allow guests to move freely around while snackin' and dippin'!

Most importantly, don't forget include some chocolate covered pretzels!

Shelley + Ryan {VanLandingham Estate Wedding}

I'm so happy to post this week's darling Southern Wedding photographed by the fabulous Charlotte photographer, Lucy Parker.  The couple, Shelley + Ryan, chose the quaint VanLandingham Estate as the backdrop for their November nuptials and it seemed to be the perfect fit for this sweet loving couple.  The bridesmaids sported Dessy dresses from New York Bride & Groom while Shelley stunned in a Jessica McClintock.  {Sidenote}: Is Shelley not beautiful?!?  You've got to check out her gorgeous bridals (also taken by Lucy Parker). Ryan, you are a lucky man!

these last two are my favorites...

You can check out the rest of the charming details on Lucy's blog in Part I and Part II.

Thanks for sharing!

Southern Wedding Vendors

  hair + makeup:jamie svay / venue + caterer: vanlandingham estate   / cake: tizzerts  / flowers: the blossom shop / bride's dress: jessica mcclintock / bridesmaids' attire: dessy via new york bride & groom   / dj: chris earnest / wedding coordinator: dottie maloy / officiant: peggy bridgers

Spotlight: Carol Hannah

Ever since her stint on Season 6 of Project Runway, fan favorite Carol Hannah has been focusing her talents on designing classic, feminine gowns for brides' and their bridal parties'.  But Charleston holds a special place in our hearts for this South Carolinian because her designs bring that Southern grace and charm that every Lowcountry belle is looking for in her gown.  Not only are her dresses a hit at any Charleston wedding, but they've graced brides throughout the country.  From the coast to the big city, every woman can appreciate a charming Carol Hannah design.

This gorgeous wedding took place at a signature Lowcountry venue, Lowndes Grove, where the bride and her maids donned Carol Hannah originals.  Love. It.

Recently, she showcased her 2012 Spring/Summer Collection in New York City and it did not disappoint.  Her whimsical gowns are filled with so much movement.  They look like they floated right across the runway...

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for the 'maids...

All images by Gayle Brooker Photography

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for the bride...

 

 

All images by Gayle Brooker Photography

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charleston fashion week...

Carol Hannah also graced us with her presence at this year's Charleston Fashion Week's Bridal Show and wowed us with this stunner...

Image via The Connelly's

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don't you just loooove it?!?

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You can find Carol Hannah's designs right here in town...

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Maddison Row                                             Bella Bridesmaid

   171 Spring Street                                      341 King Street, Suite C

Charleston, SC 29403                                 Charleston, SC 29401

843.720.7979                                                 843.425.8079

Charleston Hotels: Wedding Group Blocks

You've been planning your dream Charleston wedding for months and have been slowly checking things off your to-do list and it's now time to take care of your guests' accommodation.  As seasoned hospitality professionals, the team at A Lowcountry Wedding is happy to assist in crossing this ‘to-do’ off your list. Our complimentary service is quick, easy and allows you to connect with the Lowcountry’s top hotel partners in Charleston, Savannah, Hilton Head & Myrtle Beach for an effortless experience in reserving your room blocks. Our experience in both the wedding and hotel industries allows us to deliver our couples a seamless process with noticeable savings and reduced stress. Ready to get started, fill out our questionnaire and we’ll touch base with you within 24-48 hours to begin planning hotel room blocks. In the meantime, read up on a few pointers and recommendations below…

Things to take into consideration:

• The best time to begin gathering information on room blocks is about 9 months prior to your wedding. Most hotels are unable to quote rates for a wedding that is more than nine months away. At the same time, keep in mind, it is important not to wait too long because hotels usually only offer a certain number of discounted group rooms.

• To be considered a group block and receive a discounted rate for your guests, you must plan to block 10 rooms per night.

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• Depending on the size of you wedding, consider booking 3 hotels in varying price ranges to accommodate everyone's budget. Make sure at least one property is downtown so out-of-town guests are able to enjoy the sites!

• It's okay to tell the Group Sales Coordinator the price range and amenities (like free breakfast, wi-fi or shuttle service) that are important to you and your guests.

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• If you think some of your guests might arrive early or stay a little longer it might be beneficial for them if you extend the block from Thursday-Monday instead of just Friday and Saturday evening.

• Be prepared to hear higher rates during peak months and especially if you are marrying over a busy Charleston weekend like; Spoleto Festival, SEWE or Citadel/CofC Graduation.

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• Be prepared to sign some sort of group agreement or contract laying out all the terms of the group block and the policies of the property.

• In order to hold the rooms, some hotels will include an attrition clause that will require you to give a credit card number in case some of the rooms are not picked up. In this case, if all of the rooms are not reserved you will be charged.

• It's worth asking for...

  • A Custom Web Page. Larger chain properties (like a Marriott or Hilton) can offer a custom wedding web page that you can send out to your guests. It's like your own little Expedia page with your group rate pre-loaded so guests don't even have to call the hotel itself.

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• A complimentary upgrade or even a room/bridal suite. Some locations will offer a complimentary upgrade/room depending on the amount of rooms your group books.

charleston-weddings-residence-inn-riverview-hotel

When the cut off date will be. The cut-off date is usually 30 days prior. After this date, all remaining rooms will be released back into the hotel's inventory. At that point, your guests will be unable to take advantage of the discounted rate but can still book a room based on availability.

charleston-weddings-market-pavilion-hotel

Work with your Group Sales Coordinator throughout the process to monitor the pick-up over the next few months and determine when and if it is necessary to add more rooms.

When sending out your save-the-dates, be sure to include each properti’s name, phone number, address and website.  If you are getting hitched during the summer months it might be a good idea to include the contact info of a beach house rental property in case your guests are planning to make a long vacation out of it!  Lastly, don't forget to add the information to your wedding website, as well. 

Ready to reserve your room blocks? Shoot us an email at hello (@) alowcountrywed.com to get started.

Middleton Place Bridal Session by Monika Gauthier Photography

Monika Gauthier always does a fabulous job of making our hearts skip-a-beat, and this time she's done it again with Lauren's Lowcountry bridal session.  Bride Lauren is breathtaking in a strapless gown with a soft sweetheart neckline.  Her hair was pulled back into a soft up-do by Lauren Campion, while her makeup was done by Jonny Cosmetics and Jonathan Sherwood.  Pretty Petals designed a beautiful white bouquet to accent one gorgeous bride!

Charleston Wedding Vendors Photographer: Monika Gauthier Photography | Florist: Pretty Petals | Makeup: Jonny Cosmetics, Jonathon Sherwood | Hair: Lauren Campion

Dying to see more Lowcountry Wedding inspiration?

Check out the premier issue of A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine featuring 13 of our favorite coastal celebrations including:

-Christine + Derek’s Elegant Omni Hilton Head Wedding

-Jennifer + Carl’s Grande Dunes Ocean Club Wedding

-Brian + Ashley’s Creek Club at I’On wedding