Coastal Rice Mill Wedding in the Lowcountry by Charleston Wedding Vendors Paige Winn Photo, Delicious Desserts and Elizabeth Grace Occassions.
Grey Wedding at Oldfield Club by Britt Croft Photography
I can't wait for you to feast your eyes on this treat from Britt Croft Photography! Because I just KNOW you're going to love all the charming details in this orange and grey wedding at Oldfield Club. For starters, I'm loving the v-neck grey dresses the bridesmaids wore, not to mention their adorable orange and pink bouquets that pop right off their dresses. Bride Bonnie took my breath away in her strapless, fit and flare gown, laid back up-do and perfect bouquet from Branches Designs. My favorite part is how the integrated oyster shells into the decor. The ultimate Lowcountry detail! Thank you, thank you, thank you to Britt Croft for sharing this beauty!
Coordination: Bob Rubenkonig and Danielle Tosky // Venue: Oldfield River Club // Bride’s Dress & Veil: Chica’s Bridal // Bride’s Shoes: Nine West // Bridesmaid Attire: David’s Bridal / | Bride’s Jewelry: Family heirloom earrings and necklace, Alex and Ani bracelet // Hair & Makeup: Iridescence Beauty Bar // Florals: Branches Designs // Favors: Jim ‘N Nick’s Biscuit Mix // Band: Tell Scarlet
September Oaks Vineyard Wedding by The Happy Bloom
It seems like we officially ushered in the Fall season this weekend, what with the cold front and time change, and while I'm pretty excited for cooler temps and scarves, I'll always be a summer girl at heart. And for those of you who share my same need for long summer days and pastel color palettes, I know you'll enjoy this September Oaks Vineyard wedding in Ridgeland, South Carolina captured by The Happy Bloom. Bride Bevin stunned in an Elaya Vaughn gown that she paired with mint heels and a darling Twigs & Honey headpiece. She carried an amazing bouquet of peonies, garden roses and dahlias designed by The Flower Shop Bluffton. Josh donned a navy suit as he waited for his bride under a majestic oak tree. Prior to their wedding day, the couple followed Southern wedding tradition and buried a bottle of Bourbon at their ceremony site so it wouldn't rain on their big day! After they said 'I do', the couple dug up the bottle before celebrating (and enjoying macaroons!) with their guests.
Photographer: The Happy Bloom // Dress Designer: Elaya Vaughn // Cake Designer: Lulu's Chocolate Bar // Specialty Foods: Maison de Macarons // Venue: September Oaks Vineyard // Shoes: Seychelle's // Floral Designer: The Flower Shop Bluffton // Headpiece: Twigs & Honey
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Purple McCrady's Wedding by Carolina Photosmith
Amber and Jensen returned to their Carolina roots when they planned their destination wedding in Charleston, South Carolina. The couple currently calls California home and brought their relaxed, fun style to the East coast for a beautiful garden wedding ceremony in the heart of Holy City at the Confederate Home. Amber stunned in a fitted gown with a sweetheart neckline while her maids donned one-shouldered purple dresses. After saying 'I do', the couple and their bridal party hopped aboard a trolley to start the celebration. Mimi Nicole Events designed dreamy bouquets full of luscious white peonies with a romantic pop of pale purple. The reception kicked off with a luxurious seated dinner in the Long Room at McCrady's before guests dance the night away. Thanks to Carolina Photosmith for capturing such a lovely McCrady's Wedding!
Photographer: Carolina Photosmith // DJ: FingerSnappin' Entertainment/ // Pre Ceremony Location: The Mills House // Ceremony Venue: Confederate Home & College // Reception Venue and Caterer: McCrady's // Floral Designer: Mimi Nicole Events // Dress Designer: Tomato Wedding Shop
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Purple and Red Wedding in Charleston, SC
As we headed to Fall, and we see color palettes starting to change, I thought you would enjoy this purple and red wedding from Charleston, South Carolina. Captured by Diana Deaver Weddings, this beauty took place at the Creek Club at I'On. Bridesmaids donned floor-length black gowns, while the men sported classic black tuxedos. Full of orchids, ranunculus and tulips, I'm completely obsessing over the righteous blooms Branch Design Studio created in eye-catching shades of purple and red. The couple, Lauren and Brian, married in an outdoor ceremony along the water before joining their guests to celebrate the night away! I can't get enough of the hanging mason jars filled with votives and deep red roses!
Photographer: Diana Deaver Weddings // Musicians: Gregory Guay Music // Caterer: Jacob's Kitchen // Reception Venue: The Creek Club at I'On // Floral Designer: Branch Design Studio
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Romantic Purple wedding at The Island House from Amelia + Dan Photography, Pure Luxe Bride, Branch Design Studio, Ash and Co., B. Gourmet Catering and Jenny Packham http://goo.gl/avZL0P
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Isle of Palms shoot from JOPHOTO, LB Floral, Honeybee Events and PhotoVision http://goo.gl/U7My7a
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Interested in more information on A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine? To become a preferred vendor and to learn about print and online advertising options, contact hello{at}alowcountrywed.com to request a media kit.
Vintage Savannah Wedding Inspiration at Bethesda Academy by Ivory & Beau
Classic Georgetown Wedding by Fox Events and Priscilla Thomas
Pink Pawleys Island Plantation Wedding by JJ Horton Photography
Y'all, we've got a big week here at A Lowcountry Wedding! Today, with the help of our friends Scarlet Plan & Design, Dana Cubbage, Alden Haviland and more, we'll be shooting a pretty righteous surprise for A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine. Tuesday, we'll be hanging out with Chloe of Top Knots & Polka Dots and the ladies of Pink Dot for a fun shoot all about what to pack for your honeymoon. Needless to say, our instagram will be blowing up, so I highly suggests you head over to catch a few glimpses of all the pretty. It's gonna be amazing! We're so pumped to share this Pink Pawleys Island Plantation wedding from JJ Horton Photography. Carrie + Brendan tied the knot at the quaint Belin Memorial United Methodist Church in Murrells Inlet, SC. before kicking it to Pawleys Island Plantation to celebrate. We love bride Carrie's gorgeous, strapless gown and her luscious bouquet and their adorable Southern bridal party.
Photography: JJ Horton Photography // Ceremony: Belin Memorial United Methodist Church // Reception: Pawley’s Island Plantation // Cake: Pawleys Island Bakery // Dress: Jenny Yoo from J Majors // Bridesmaids: Alfred Sung from J Majors // Groom & Groomsmen: Joseph Slim from Jos. A Bank // Brides Shoes: Bandalino from Belk // Florals: David Bryant // Coordinator: Annie Watts, Elegant Occasions // Band: Walrus // Rentals: Hotz // Rings: Diamonds Direct
Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Romantic Purple wedding at The Island House from Amelia + Dan Photography, Pure Luxe Bride, Branch Design Studio, Ash and Co., B. Gourmet Catering and Jenny Packham http://goo.gl/avZL0P
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Isle of Palms shoot from JOPHOTO, LB Floral, Honeybee Events and PhotoVision http://goo.gl/U7My7a
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Interested in more information on A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine? To become a preferred vendor and to learn about print and online advertising options, contact hello{at}alowcountrywed.com to request a media kit.
Shem Creek Wedding Engagement by Dana Cubbage Weddings
The beauty of Charleston is that every where you look and every time you turn your head, you find another charming part of the city that takes your breath away. From the cobblestone streets and the hidden alleys that Downtown Charleston has to offer, to the beautiful beaches and waterfront views, the prettiness just doesn't stop. I always love diving into a beautiful engagement session to see what locations the couples choose to serve as their backdrops. Bride Lauren and her husband-to-be, Hunter, picked one of my coastal favorites. The duo met up with talented wedding photographer, Dana Cubbage Weddings, to kick off the afternoon perusing the streets of the Holy City before heading over to Mount Pleasant to wrap up their Shem Creek Wedding Engagement and I couldn't be more in love!
From Dana: "Lauren + Hunter recently moved to Charleston and will be getting married this February on Shem Creek. I was so excited that they wanted to not only incorporate the historic romance of downtown Charleston in their engagement session, but also the amazing coastal charm of Shem Creek. Despite the threat of thunderstorms, we were able to spend a few hours together, chatting about their wedding plans + finding some amazing locations along the way!"
Photographer: Dana Cubbage Weddings // Venue: Shem Creek and Downtown Charleston
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Vibrant Myrtle Beach Wedding from Memorable Moments and Scott Smallin Photography
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Dreamy Hilton Head Wedding at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort from Landon Jacob
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Interested in more information on A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine? To become a preferred vendor and to learn about print and online advertising options, contact hello{at}alowcountrywed.com to request a media kit.
Hilton Head Wedding Inspiration at Stoney Baynard Ruins
I'm thrilled to share this gorgeous Hilton Head Wedding Inspiration shoot from the talented Julie Roberts. This beauty was on the grounds of the Stoney Baynard Ruins and combines romantic evening sunlight, the ruins of an old, mysterious Southern Plantation and a veil that's bound to take your breath away.
From Julie Roberts Photography: "This gorgeous couple, Sara and Jack, agreed to model for a little styled session that I did in Hilton Head last summer. I've been so excited to feature these images that are full of super sultry evening sun light. When I first thought of doing this session I called up my friends at The Gilded Gown and they happily agreed to lone us this gorgeous gown, veil, and all accessories as well as the suit and accoutremont. The adorable flowers were done by Allie with Sassafras Flowers. I discovered her through the wonders of facebook ... and was thrilled when she agreed to be a part of this little project. Her work is so whimsical and artistic! The location for our session was a sweet little find my mom discovered tucked away on Hilton Head Island, SC. The Stoney-Baynard Ruins are the remnants of a grand antebellum plantation home built 1793-1810 by Captain John Stoney. The original house was built of timber and tabby which is a mixture of oyster shells, lime, and sand. The up close texture of the ruin walls was WONDERFUL. The home was raided during the Civil War and Union forces made it their headquarters. It burned down shortly after the Civil War. I LOVE the mystery and charm of old plantation ruins. Paired with the elegance of a lace wedding gown and string of fresh water pearls this scene is my idea of the perfect deep south wedding inspiration."
Photographer: Julie Roberts Photography // Floral Designer: Sassafras // Event Venue: Stoney Baynard Ruins // Dress Store: The Gilded Gown//
Submitted via Two Bright Lights
Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Vibrant Myrtle Beach Wedding from Memorable Moments and Scott Smallin Photography
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Dreamy Hilton Head Wedding at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort from Landon Jacob
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Pavilion at Patriots Point Wedding by Riverland Studios
Jessica + Michael got married this Spring in a beautiful Pavilion at Patriots Point wedding in Mt. Pleasant, SC. The duo met each other at the University of Tennessee after being introduced by Michael’s sister. They relocated to Charleston after Micheal got a job here and they quickly fell in love with the Lowcountry. They were joined by family and friends as they said 'I do' in an elegant outdoor ceremony. Their Golden Retrievers, Ari + Vince, even made a surprise appearance! The color palette for the evening was gold and white, which was beautifully displayed in the cake provided by Charleston Cakes Etc. Bride Jessica and her bridesmaids stunned, as the girls wore long, gold After Six dresses while Jessica donned a dreamy lace gown. At the reception, guests celebrated to the tunes of The Party Music and dined on treats from Relish Distinctive Catering. Thanks to Riverland Studios for sharing all the details!
Photographer: Riverland Studios//Bridesmaid Dresses: After Six from Bella Bridesmaid Charleston//Event Venue: Pavilion at Patriots Point//Caterer: Relish Distinctive Catering//
Submitted via Two Bright Lights Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Folly Beach Wedding from Charleston wedding vendor Dana Cubbage Weddings
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Vibrant Myrtle Beach Wedding from Memorable Moments and Scott Smallin Photography
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from Savannah Wedding Vendors, Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- Dreamy Hilton Head Wedding at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort from Landon Jacob
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Savannah Yacht Club Wedding by Donna Von Bruening Photography
Historic Rice Mill Building Wedding from Liz Duren Photography
We've been on a bit of a Rice Mill kick recently and I'm in no big hurry to get off of it! This gorgeous Lowcountry wedding venue boasts picturesque views of the Charleston Harbor, an amazing bar and a killer coastal breeze, and it was the perfect location for Sarah + Phillip's Memorial Day weekend affair. With the help of her friends, Sarah made all of the decorations that Pretty Petals filled with luscious flowers. Sarah's bouquet got a memorable addition with roses from her Grandfather's garden. After their outdoor ceremony, Liz Duren Photography joined the newlyweds and their bridal party down by the Marina where they ran into the one and only, Shep Rose from the cast of Southern Charm! We're loving this gorgeous cake from d'lish, Sarah's lovely gown and all the adorable Southern details in this Historic Rice Mill Building wedding!
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Photographer: liz duren photography // Cake Designer: d'lish // Caterer: Good Food Catering // Event Venue: Historic Rice Mill // Musicians: Midnight City // Floral Designer: Pretty Petals of Charleston
Submitted via Two Bright Lights .
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Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Rice Mill Wedding from Shannon Noel Photography in shades of cranberry and peach
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from the ladies at Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Secret Tree House Wedding Inspiration by Sea Star Arts Photography + Carly is Inspired
Jeni, of Sea Star Arts Photography, recently sent over this adorable Spring Soiree created by a handful of Charleston wedding vendors who really know how to deliver that modern vintage charm we all go crazy for. Carly is Inspired, Curiosity Vintage Rentals, & 428 Main handled the decor, while Dodeline Design designed the invitation suite and Twenty Six Divine created the elegant cake. Thanks to Carly is Inspired for sharing their inspiration...
From Carly is Isnpired: "The setting for our photo shoot in the quaint I’On neighborhood in Mount Pleasant, SC was a tree house tucked away amongst a path of lush green ferns overlooking a gorgeous lagoon. Childhood friends tying the knot in a place where they spent long summer days dreaming about their futures inspired us to create an intimate wedding filled with a combination of feminine and masculine details and modern vintage décor captured by Sea Star Arts Photography. An lace-inspired stationery suite from Dodeline Design kicked off our celebration, which had our couple spending the afternoon celebrating their nuptials by enjoying cake garnished with fresh blackberries and sipping on champagne. We imaged shared conversation at their table complete with vintage family silver pieces serving as centerpieces filled with gorgeous handmade DIY arrangements of flowers, and an antique mirror reflecting a ribbon ceiling installation for a touch of whimsy. Heirloom English china (Grandmother’s of course!) and linens completed our softer feminine look, while a vignette of rustic antlers, cigars, and a gramophone elicited a more masculine feel. We wanted to carry a classic, heirloom theme throughout the tree house to not only give additional nods to years gone by, but to inspire tradition, family, and the future, too."
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Photography: Sea Star Arts Photography // Décor: Carly is Inspired, Curiosity Vintage Rentals, & 428 Main // Pastries: Twenty Six Divine // Stationery & Paper Goods: Dodeline Design // Flowers: Pat Rone Styling: Sarah Murdock, 428 Main
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Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Rice Mill Wedding from Shannon Noel Photography in shades of cranberry and peach
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from the ladies at Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Rice Mill Building Wedding by Dana Cubbage Photography + Ooh! Events
We're excited to be back from the long holiday weekend so we can share a dose of coastal perfection from the talented Dana Cubbage Weddings. You may remember awhile back when we had the pleasure of sharing Megan + Jay's Downtown Charleston engagement session. It was gorgeous, so it won't be any surprise when you lay your eyes on their stunning Rice Mill wedding. With a gorgeous pastel palette and a meaningful Lowcountry backdrop on the Ashley River, their day couldn't have been more perfect. Jay and Megan love to spend their spare time on the water, and Jay proposed to Megan while on a boating day trip last year, so it was only natural to incorporate the water and boats into their wedding day. Ooh! Events designed elegant floral arrangements with a nautical navy accent, while A Charleston Event pulled the whole day together. Fun lounge furniture created a laid back feel to the venue and the Coconut Groove Band kept the dance floor packed all night with a fun selection of island music + oldies. Jay + Megan drove away in a vintage teal 1962 Cadillac Deville from Lowcountry Valet & Shuttle.
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Photographer: Dana Cubbage Weddings // Event Planner: A Charleston Event // Cake Designer: DeClare Cakes // Caterer: Good Food Catering // Transportation: Lowcountry Valet & Shuttle Co. // Floral Designer: Ooh! Events // Hair Stylist: Stuart Laurence Salon // Band: Coconut Groove Band // Reception Venue: The Historic Rice Mill
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Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Dreamy Rice Mill Wedding from Paige Winn Photo in shades of blue and peach
- Rustic Old Wide Awake Plantation wedding from Sea Star Arts Photography
- Coastal Rice Mill Wedding from Shannon Noel Photography in shades of cranberry and peach
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from the ladies at Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Legare Waring House Wedding by Jennifer Bearden Photography
Jennifer Bearden Photography recently teamed up that lovely ladies of Mingle for a big ol' southern wedding celebration at Legare Waring House in Charleston, SC. Bride Lauren and her groom Justin, wanted a dyed-in-the-wool southern affair, and it was! Married outdoors in front of a reclaimed mantle from a Charleston estate under the grand Oak trees! Gingham bow ties, oysters, bourbon bars and succulents adorning the cake. The color palate was a clean base of navy set off by a wealth of other hues of blue and white, so striking against the Lowcountry backdrop. It was a beautiful, deeply Southern and meaningful affair, full of all the things a great Southern wedding should be!
Photographer: Jennifer Bearden Photography // Reception Venue: Legare Waring House // Event Planner: Mingle .
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Dying for more Lowcountry Wedding Inspiration!? Check out these beauties…
- Coastal Rice Mill Wedding from Shannon Noel Photography in shades of cranberry and peach
- Laid back, DIY Lowcountry Wedding from Jeanne Mitchum Photography with burlap and anemones
- Sequins and Peony Wedding Inspiration from the ladies at Ivory + Beau and Rach Lea Photography
- A Lowcountry Wedding Magazine filled with 13 real weddings from Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach
Legare Waring House Wedding by Caroline Ro + Mimi Nicole Events
Charleston Wedding at Boone Hall Plantation by Jennings King Photography
Preppy William Aiken House Wedding by shannon michele photography
Shannon Michele Photography can do no wrong in my eyes, especially when she’s paired up with a dream team of Charleston wedding vendors like Sara York Grimshaw, Technical Event Company and the design masterminds over at WED. It’s like a match made in my personal Lowcountry heaven. Beth + Greg’s William Aiken House wedding was the preppy Southern bash that all Lowcountry brides dream of. Effortless, tasteful, timeless…complete perfection! I mean, come on, bridesmaids dressed in seersucker, an adorable ring bearer, swoon-worthy florals and one seriously gorgeous bride. You can’t beat it.
Photographer: Shannon Michele Photography // Event coordination: Hannah Alexander with WED // Venue: The William Aiken House // Band: Calvin Taylor // Flowers: Sara York Grimshaw Designs // Cake: family friend // Makeup: Margaret with Moore Makeup // Catering: Fish // Bridesmaid dresses: Judith March // Rrentals: Snyder Event Rentals // Lighting: Technical Event Company // Videography: Lydia Walker
Beaufort Wedding at The Oaks Plantation by The American Photographer
When Bride Ryan submitted her gorgeous Beaufort Wedding at The Oaks Plantation, I immediately knew that it had to grace the pages of A Lowcountry Wedding. Not only did I love hearing about the sweet couple's love story, but I adore all the thoughtful details they included throughout their picture perfect day! Ryan was stunning in a strapless lace gown and an effortless up-do, while her maids rocked gold cocktail dresses from Bella Bridesmaids. Thanks to The American Photographer for capturing all the details!
Tell us a little bit about how you met your husband…
Whit (Whitney) and I met while attending Costal Carolina University in Myrtle Beach, SC. We both share a love for dancing and that is exactly where we met....on the dance floor! We were both in sororities and fraternities and had several functions together, but it wasn't until the night he asked me to dance that I really took noticed him.
Whit and I were both coming out of very long relationships so initially we talked for a few months before making anything official. After several months of dinner dates (pizza), boating trips, movie dates, and a lot of dancing, he decided to make it official. We went to A night of 1,000 candles, which is a beautiful holiday themed set up at Brook Green Gardens (Pawley’s Island, SC) and he then asked me to be his girlfriend. We later moved to Charleston together.
Tell us ALL about the proposal...
Whit and I had been dating for a little over three years. It was on a beautiful Fall Friday (October 19, 2012) that Whit and I had been planning a trip back home to visit my parents for the weekend. Being from the low country I have a great appreciation for the beautiful plantations that surround us. There was one in particular that always caught my eye, as I had to drive past it anytime I made the trip back home. It is called Bonny Hall Plantation. Whit knew my love for the place and its beauty. So on that Fall Friday as Whit and I were making the trip home "to have dinner with my family" he pulled in to the entrance of the plantation. He said that he had spoken with the manager and had permission for us to walk around and just take a look at the grounds. I was a bit hesitant about this story, but none the less proceed to follow him, hand in hand and walked around the historic grounds. He led me to the backyard where there stood a beautiful old, large oak tree, with a tree house of some sort built into it. He convinced me to climb the ladder to the top with him. (While he continuously cleared his throat over and over...he does this when he is nervous) As I stood up there embracing the gorgeous view of the marsh, he directs my attention to a rope dangling at the bottom of the tree. He begins to tug on this rope/pulley apparatus and up comes a cute little picnic basket covered in moss. He opens it up and there sits the most gorgeous diamond ring. Whit got on one knee and the rest is history.
What made you choose your venue? What elements drew you to it?
I wanted a venue that portrayed the low country and all of its southern charm. I had always imagined getting married on the water at a plantation with a historic yet romantic feel. The Oaks Plantation has a quaint historic home on the property, where the girls and I were all able to get ready. Out back is a large yard where we held the ceremony under the beautiful old oak trees on one side and the reception was on the other side; all while being surrounded by the gorgeous Beaufort River. It was my mission to find a place that had all the elements I had been envisioning. And that’s exactly what I found.
Lets hear about the details!
We were married under an oak tree, (at the Oaks Plantation) which seemed fitting given that Whit had proposed to me in an oak tree. As for the water aspect, I think one of my favorite things was leaving on a boat at the end of the evening. Whit and I both have a love for the water and this was the perfect touch to close out what was an amazing night. Also, we were married on October 19th which was exactly one year to the day that he had proposed to me. It was all about the details for me. Our guest book was not the typical book guests’ sign at weddings; it was a book of Southern Lowcountry Plantations, one of which was where he had proposed. I had a custom ring box made out of a tree stump that had our initials and wedding date etched into it. I had several added touches that incorporated where it all began, in a tree.
Specialty Drinks...
Keeping with the southern theme Whit and I both had specialty drinks at our separate bars. My drink was a “Southern Belle-ini” which consisted of white grape peach juice and champagne with a frozen raspberry. My bridesmaids and I were served this tasty cocktail when we went to try on bridesmaids dresses at The Gown Boutique. I thought it was so good; I had to make sure it was shared with my guests. As for the groom, his cocktail was called Southern Royalty which was crown royal and coke, simple yet Whit’s favorite. And my favorite aspect of the specialty drinks was the oyster shooters! A raw oyster in a shot glass filled with vodka and topped with cocktail sauce….a southern thing!
How many guests attended? We had approximately 200-250 guests at our wedding
Color Palette: Champagne/Gold, cream, touch of blush. Bridesmaid dresses were cement, linens were cream and sashes on cocktail tables were blush.
Something Old: a handkerchief that my grandmother saved for me to wear on my wedding day
Something New: my Louboutin wedding shoes
Something borrowed: broach in my bouquet that my MOH wore on her wedding day
Something Blue: handkerchief with my initials monogrammed in blue from my other MOH
What’s your favorite picture from your wedding and why?
One of my favorite pictures is of Whit and I staring into each other’s eyes, my veil blowing over his head, and the trees and water in the background. I felt that it captured the exact emotions of happiness and love that was over flowing that day. We both liked the photo so much that we used it to make custom thank you cards for our guests. I must say my other favorite photo was with another important man in my life, my dad. It was the photo of us during our father daughter dance. It captured the happiness in my heart that was made possible in part by my dad!
Tell us about the Lowcountry cuisine...
I admit to being a bit of a foodie, so this was very important to me. Not only was the taste of the food important but presentation was on the top of my list.
For cocktail hour we had tuna tartar topped with avocado and a chipotle crema served in mini cones that each had an individual holes they rested in on a cutting board. We had mini open faced BLT’s served on tea biscuits with an herbed mayo base. And what southern wedding is complete without a good fried green tomato topped with a Cajun cream sauce.
As for the dinner portion of the menu, I wanted to continue with good southern comfort food. We had a salad to start, which consisted of romaine lettuce, artichokes, hearts of palm, shaved red onions and parmesan topped with champagne vinaigrette. The meats included grilled pork tenderloin topped with a raspberry mustard sauce, and grilled bourbon pecan chicken. As for the sides we had sweet potato mash with brown sugar butter, smoked gouda mac n cheese, haricots verts, and a biscuit bar with fresh, hot, and fluffy biscuits served with an assortment of jams and preserves. Side note, anyone who knows Whit and I knows that we have an extreme love for pizza. So for our late night snack we brought it none other than papa john’s pizza for all.
Most Valuable piece of advice you’d give to a newly engaged bride:
Valuable advice would be, when choosing people that are a part of your wedding, choose those that will be supportive, loving and caring throughout the whole process. People that will be there for you two as a couple after the I do’s. And one more piece of advice, do hire a videographer! Best decision I made, and I’m so happy that we can relive our special day over and over!
Venue: The Oaks Plantation, St. Helena, SC // Photographers: The American Photographer, Early Branch, SC & second shooter Scott Hansen Photography // Reception Band: Tru Sol- Myrtle Beach, SC // Ceremony Music: Lowcountry String Quartet, Beaufort, SC // Bridal Shop/Wedding Dress: The Gown Boutique of Charleston, SC // Bridesmaids Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid of Charleston, SC // Cake: Creative Cakes by RaFayele // Bar &Catering: Geist & Company- Bluffton, SC // Florist: Nix Florist, Hampton, SC // Rentals: Amazing Event Rentals- Beaufort, SC // Brides Hair/Makeup: Karen Lambert of Serenity Day Spa & Salon- Statesboro, GA // Bridesmaids Hair: Bangs Salon- Beaufort, SC // Videographer: Reel Weddings - Myrtle Beach, SC // Invitations: Jeffrey Bannon Charleston, SC // Tuxedos: Jim's Formal Wear- Florence, SC // Wedding Planner: Teresa O’Connel // Wedding Directors: Tammy Lane & Lori Poston // Officiant: Father David Dubay