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

Keesha + Ben {Nashville Wedding}

Today's we're sharing a classic Nashville affair from Jonathon Campbell Photography.  Bride Keesha stunned in her off-the-shoulder gown (that I just love!) as she wed her college sweetheart on her daddy's farm.  The couple chose an elegant yellow color palette that they complimented with a beautiful white and black print.

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

We met while in college working at a local grocery store.  We have known each other for eight years.

Let's hear about your engagement...

Ben surprised me and hid the ring in my stocking on Christmas Eve of 2009. We were engaged for 16 months.

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

About 6 months before the wedding a storm came through our town and one of the trees from the double oak fell.  I was heartbroken. I had always imagined having my wedding under a tree. My dad and a family friend came to the rescue. I saw some old church windows at another venue online and asked if they could build the windows for me.  The windows have the most special meaning because my dad had built them by hand. At the end of the day the tree falling was actually a blessing because I have something special that my dad made and the ceremony was beautiful in front of the widows.

-Another special detail was our cookie bar. We had 8 different types of cookies and it was a hit. A friend of the family made over 1,000 cookies.

When I'm going through a wedding, there is always an image or two that stick out.  Sometimes it's a beautiful detail or an amazing shot but usually it's a special moment....and I just love Keesha's favorite shot as her and Ben have officially been pronounced husband and wife!

Tell us a little bit about your menu...

We wanted to have southern food that everyone would enjoy. We had Barbecue, baked beans, slaw, chips and salsa, cornbread, bottled 7-up, Coca-cola, Orange crush and fresh lemonade. For our favors we had a cookie bar with 8 different kinds of cookies.

Was that a cookie bar!? Love it!

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

The most memorable moment of the day was the fireworks at the end of the wedding. It was everything I had hoped it would be and the fireworks just made everything come together in the end.

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

Enjoy the day and just take it all in because it goes by so quick!

Vendors

photographer: jonathon campbell photography  /  dress store:  the white room  /  cake designer: 

main event productions  /  makeup artist:  amy lynn larwig  /  venue: private residence

The Wickliffe House {Jeana}

On the peninsula, you'll find a stunning Greek Revival Mansion located in one of Charleston's historic neighborhood.  The Wickliffe House is the ideal wedding venue for brides looking for a breathtaking Lowcountry venue.  From the heavenly chandeliers and pine wood floors, to the oil paintings and exquisite details in the woodwork, the interior of the home is simply immaculate.  On the outside you'll find a wide Charleston-esque piazza and a large lawn which is perfect for an outdoor ceremony, cocktail hour or even a large tented reception. Not only is The Wickliffe House one of Charleston's most popular wedding venues, it also made for a gorgeous backdrop for today's Lowcountry bride Jeana's bridal portraits.  Chi Photography was on hand to capture the beautiful Jeana in this quintessentially Southern bridal session 

This one is my favorite...

Janelle + Brian {Georgia Wedding}

  It's another rainy day in Charleston and while I really didn't feel like getting out of bed this morning, we do have some really exciting news to share.  It's no secret that Charleston is consistently ranked one of the country's top Wedding destinations but yesterday Conde Nast  Traveler Magazine ranked the Holy City as America's Top Travel Destination...impressive, huh?  Today we're sharing Janelle + Brian's rustic Georgia wedding from Jenn and Travis Photography.  The couple selected a scenic North Georgia venue to hold their intimate outdoor ceremony.  Following their nuptials, they moved the party inside to The Barn at High Point Farms in Flinstone, Georgia where they celebrated with family and friends and enjoyed the perfect scenery.

  

   

So romantic!  Thanks for sharing :)

Vendors

photographer: jenn and travis photography  / 

ceremony and reception venue: the barn at high point farms

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

Jaclyn + Zach {Arizona Engagement}

Happy Friday!  Today I wanted to kick off the weekend with Jaclyn + Zach's darling engagement session from our friend, Michelle Koechle.  I've never really been out West and up until 2 years ago the farthest West I had ever been was New Orleans (sad, I know), but seeing those breathtaking mountains in the backdrop makes me want to catch the next plane.

Secret Rose Photography {Oklahoma Bridals}

I still kick myself for not getting bridal portraits taken, especially after a stunning shoot like this shows up in my inbox.  Everything about this vintage Oklahoma bridal session from Secret Rose Photography will make you swoon (scouts honor!)  For starters, can we talk about the scenery? I mean, come on.  You can't beat those gorgeous sun-kissed plains...and how about her magnificently, whimsical gown?  I could romp around in that ALL. DAY. LONG. 

 I'm in heaven :)

South Carolina Wedding {Rebecca + Philip}

Back In 2004, toady's bride, Rebecca, relocated to Nashville, Tennessee.  While still becoming acquainted with the Music City, friends introduced her to Jo Dee Messina band member, Philip. The duo had an instant bond and shortly thereafter had their first date...in Honolulu, Hawaii!  (Does that not sound like an episode of The Bachelor to you!?)  Seven years later Philip popped the question on July 12, 2010, Rebecca's birthday.  The couple had a gorgeous rustic wedding this Spring at Sans Souci Farms in Sumter, South Carolina.  The perfect weather,  picturesque Carolina scenery and the talented team from Ricki Ford Photographers combined for these beautiful timeless images.

loooove this last shot...

Vendors

photographer: ricki ford photographers  /  caterer: catering for all occasions  / 

reception venue: sans souci farms  /  florist: the daisy shop  / 

planner: brenda holmes  /  entertainment: tad graham

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.

Jill + Ron {San Francisco Engagement}

We're kicking off today with a classic California Engagement Session from JC Page Photography. The couple, Jill + Ron , chose one of San Francisco's most popular attractions, the beautiful Japanese Tea Gardens in the Golden Gate Park.  The Tea Gardens are home to stunning monuments, gorgeous bridges and exquisite native Japanese plants and ponds...all of which Jill + Ron made sure to take  complete advantage of.

Can we talk about how amazing that last shot is?

  

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

Tiffany + Kevin {Washington Wedding}

I love when I open my inbox and I see a completed questionnaire from one of our brides.  I think it's so easy to get caught up in all the craziness that wedding planning brings and it's not until after the wedding that you can take a step back and really see what is truly important.  I'm excited to share today's Washington Wedding from CALIMA Portraits along with Bride Tiffany's heartfelt answers.  The photography is just beautiful and Tiffany + Kevin are a precious couple.  Make sure you read which image is her favorite...it made me tear up a bit!

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

Kevin and I are from the same hometown and have a lot of mutual friends, so we saw each other here and there throughout the past 7 years. We didn’t become close though until about 4 years ago when I moved back home and was looking for a place to live, he conveniently had a room to rent in his new house and we quickly became inseparable.

Tell us about the proposal...

We were staying at a nice resort a couple days before Thanksgiving, at the end of the night we were just laying in bed talking about our life together and he pulled the ring out. It was sweet and great timing. I found out later that he had been trying so hard the whole day/night to find the perfect moment. We were engaged for 1.5 years before the wedding.

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

That is tough. Having such a homemade wedding, most of the details were personal. A couple of my favorite things were writing our own vows and having a good friend officiate, our arbor made by my dad and brother, and our table runners that I worked on with my mother in law.

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

Another hard question.  I think the most memorable part for me was walking down the aisle and seeing my husband's face, even though we had our first look pictures it was like seeing him for the first time.  He normally isn't a very emotional guy, but he was sobbing.  I remember thinking, 'this is it, this is forever.'  Our whole wedding was extremely emotional and heartfelt.  It was exactly what I wanted.

How did you choose your venue?   

We were on a pretty strict budget and we preferred an outdoor wedding. The park had everything we were looking for, a gorgeous backdrop, wide open space, and the freedom to bring in our own food, etc.

Tell us about the menu...

Another very personal part of our wedding was the food.  There was sooo much of it.  A family friend barbecued, we had ribs, pulled pork and chicken.  Then our moms and aunts made a bunch of different kinds of salads.  Our cake was made by one of my bridesmaids, and my mother-in-law and aunt made about 20 pies.  Then my mom also made cookies and brownies.  It was over the top!

What’s your favorite picture from your wedding? 

I love all of our pictures, and it's hard not to choose one of Kevin at the alter or our first dance.  Part of dreaming about my wedding has always been the daddy/daughter dance and my dad giving me away.  I felt like I was a little girl again.  I think this picture captures the emotion perfectly.

Knowing what you know now, is there any advice you would give to future brides? 

It is never too early to start planning, or to get started on projects.  I thought I had all the time in the world with a year and a half to plan, but it goes by fast and you want to enjoy the days leading up to the wedding.  Also, as everyone says, the day is a complete blur, take that time to enjoy yourself and your new husband.  Don't stress the little details that people won't ever notice.

Wedding Vendors

photographer: calima portraits  /  hair stylist: gene juarez salon  / 

floral designer: valley nursery  /  reception venue: city of bremerton parks & recreation  / 

dress store: benita's  /  shoes: seychelle's  /    bridesmaid dresses:  nordstrom

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

Brianne + Garner: Florida Engagement Session

So you know here at A Lowcountry Wedding we're all about anything coastal and today I'm diggin' Brianne + Garner's classic Florida Engagement Session from Meg Baisden Photography.  Their choice of attire mixed with the different locations they've chosen has made for some beautifully timeless and vivid images.  I love that the ended the day oceanside, enjoying the sunset...

Images via Two Bright Lights

Lily + Jonathan: Louisiana Wedding

Hope you caught this mornings Caribbean Comfort Shoot from Bliss by Sam.  It made me want to grab a Red Stripe and put my toes in the sand!  Next up, we're sharing a Louisiana beauty from local Charleston photographer, Taylor Rae.  Bride Lily has shared a little extra detail about her Deep South nuptials.

Tell us a little bit about how you met your husband...Jonathan and I met at Wheaton College in our first class our Freshman year. We became friends our first semester and started dating a the beginning of the Spring semester. We’ve known each other for five years and have been married for one of those.

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

The summer after our junior year of college I did a study abroad program in England so we were apart for the whole summer. When I got back I was at my parents’ home in Louisiana for two weeks before going back up to Illinois for school. Jonathan was with his family in Ohio. One afternoon he called me and said he was just missing me so much that day and that he just couldn’t wait to see me and to start this next year together. I said I really missed him too and couldn’t wait to see him either. Then he said, “Really? Well why don’t you come outside.” He had flown down from Ohio that morning and was in my backyard with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a gorgeous ring he had picked out all by himself. He got down on one knee and asked me to spend forever with him.  We were engaged for 10 months and were married in June 2010 just after we both graduated from college.

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

I knew that I wanted to have an outdoor wedding, but being in Louisiana in June, preferred to have a reception somewhere air-conditioned. I also knew that I wanted it to have a vintage feel. This venue was perfect because it has a great courtyard for the outdoor ceremony and the restaurant is in a beautiful old house with lots of old wood and brick and the back wall is made entirely of this huge collage of windows in all shapes and sizes. It fit the feel of the wedding and came with everything I needed so I didn’t have to worry about coordinating a lot of separate vendors.

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

Although we aren’t Jewish, I really wanted to be married under a chuppah because it symbolizes the new home that the couple will build together. This one was particularly special to me because my brother and sister-in-law built it for me.  My favorite element was the foot-washing we did as part of the ceremony. In the New Testament Jesus washes the feet of his disciples as a symbol of his willingness to serve them. We chose to do this in our ceremony as a way of showing that through our marriage we were committing to serve one another.

Almost every detail was made by hand by me and by other friends and family members and because of that I truly felt that my friends and family were a part of our wedding day and of our marriage.

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

Without question, the look on my husband’s face when he saw me in my dress for the first time, walking down the aisle to become his wife. I have never felt so beautiful and treasured and so confident that I was making the right decision.

   

   

What’s your favorite picture from your wedding? By far this pic of us kissing in front of the restaurant with my dress held out behind me.

Tell us a little bit about your menu.

Because our venue was actually an incredible restaurant we were able to do a sit-down dinner with a choice of soup or salad and chicken, steak, or fish entrée options. There were a lot of Cajun influences in the food since we were deep in South Louisiana. Everyone thought it was delicious.

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

Don’t let yourself get stressed out about the details of the wedding. The important thing is your marriage to this man that you adore. It doesn’t have to meet anyone else’s standards, it needs to be meaningful to you. The things you will remember are not how good your cake looked or whether your bridesmaids’ shoes were all exactly the same color, it’s how it felt to walk down that aisle toward the man you love and the fun of celebrating with your friends and your family.

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photographer: taylor rae photography