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charleston military weddings

Conway Riverwalk {Jessica + Joel}

Is it Friday already?!?  Isn't it crazy how fast we can blow through a week?  In case you missed it, we're in the midst of hosting a Southern Living Weddings giveaway.  That's right!  You can win yourself one free copy of their latest edition, so check out all the details right here.  To top off this winter weekend, we're leaving you with a gorgeous Lowcountry shoot from Carolina Studios by Gillian Reinhardt.  The adorable Boston duo of Jessica + Joel had always hoped for a fall-themed engagement session and that's just what they got, well, Southern style anyway, at the Conway Riverwalk.  Don't you just love it! charleston weddings

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 Myrtle Beach Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Carolina Studios by Gillian Reinhardt

 

 

Gown Boutique of Charleston {Bridal Fabrics}

Hey Gals! We've got yet another wonderful treat from our favorite crew at Gown Boutique of Charleston.  In case you've missed the past few times they've swung by, make sure to check out their truly informative posts on how to 'Be a Prepared Bride' and 'Ordering A Gown - How Long Does it Really Take?'  But today, we're talking all about the fabrics, so we'll leave it to the experts to break it down for us... charleston weddings

You’re engaged!  Congratulations!  Is your head spinning yet?  For many of you newly engaged brides, there is a lot of information to take in as you start to plan your wedding.  Some of you are so excited that you rush to the bridal shop the minute that ring lands on your finger!  That’s not a bad thing, but often times you can be unsure of the kind of dress you are looking for when you first start shopping.

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Once the bridal consultant starts putting you in dresses and throwing out all kinds of terms for fabrics & silhouettes, it can be overwhelming.  I thought it might help to give you a crash course on some of the most popular bridal fabrics.  Reading up on your gown terminology can help ease the learning curve just a bit, and help you select the gown best suited for your taste and wedding style.

 

Let’s clear one thing up first…what is silk?

One term I see thrown about loosely is “silk”.  Many brides say they want a silk gown, or ask if a gown is made of silk.  Well, some gowns are silk, but that is only part of the story.  Silk is a type of fabric that has many different forms: silk satin, silk taffeta, silk dupioni, silk chiffon, etc.  The fabric types I outline below can be made of either silk or a poly blend fabric.  These terms listed below refer to the appearance of the fabric, not the actual fibers that make up the fabric.  For example, you can have silk satin or poly satin.  A full silk satin will be higher in price because it is a higher quality fabric.  On the other hand, a poly satin gives you the look of satin at a much more affordable price.

 

Satin

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Satin (sometimes called Duchess Satin) is the most formal bridal material, and it is also the heaviest weight.  This fabric is soft & supple to the touch with a high sheen that “bounces” the light off the fabric, which helps give that bridal “glow” people so often talk about.  After not seeing much satin for several years, it is starting to make a comeback.  We may see the trends start to swing towards the more formal looks for a while.

 

Charmeuse

dupioni

Charmeuse gives the high sheen of satin without all the weight.  It drapes nicely, tends to hug your figure, and often gives that old Hollywood vibe.

 

Taffeta

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Taffeta is a popular bridal fabric that has some sheen along with a slight texture to the touch.  This fabric is light weight with great body to it, making it a great choice for styles that bridge the gap between formal & comfortable.  Taffeta is a popular fabric not only for wedding gowns, but also for bridesmaids & mothers.

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Chiffon

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Chiffon is a sheer, very soft fabric that drapes well.  Chiffon is often used for that Grecian goddess look, which works well with a beach, destination, or outdoor wedding.  This fabric is one of the lightest in weight and tends to have a less formal feel overall, however the silhouette shape & the accessories can dress it up or down.

 

Organza

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Organza is another very light weight fabric.  It is as light as Chiffon, but has more body to it.  We love this fabric on ballgown silhouettes because it gives you a full, flowing look without weighing you down.  It is also great for creating ruffles or floral details on gowns.

Tulle/Netting

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Tulle is a sheer “netted” fabric is also used to make veils.  It has a more casual in feel and is very light weight.  It is a great way to give a gown texture without doing flowers or ruffles.

 

Dupioni/Shantung

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Both Dupioni and Shantung are types of “raw” silk that are known for their “slubbing” or lined texture that runs throughout the fabric.  Most often, Dupioni will show more “slubs” than Shantung.  I am showing examples in color here so that the texture variation will show well.  We see this fabric used in bridal gowns, bridesmaids & mother’s dresses.  This fabric is versatile and very comfortable to wear, and is a great option for keeping some sheen, but also getting some texture.

Dupioni

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Shantung

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Lace

There are many kinds of lace, but the two most popular types of bridal lace are Chantilly Lace and Alencon Lace.  You can see different patterns of Chantilly or Alencon lace, but most bridal gowns made of lace will fall into one of those 2 lace styles.

 

Chantilly Lace

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Chantilly lace is a handmade bobbin lace that is named for the city of Chantilly, France.  Bobbin lace is made by braiding and twisting lengths of thread that are wound on bobbins to manage them.  This lace has a delicate feel.  It is known for natural looking floral or scrolled design, and its pattern is outlined in a flat, untwisted strand.

 

Alencon Lace

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Alencon lace is a needlepoint lace with a floral design that is sewn on a sheer net background.  It is characterized by a heavy thread outlining the design. This lace originated in Alencon, France, and “needlepoint” lace means it is a type of lace created using a needle and thread to stitch up hundreds of small stitches to form the lace itself.  In its purest form the only equipment and materials used are a needle, thread and scissors.

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Well, there you have it!  You are now a bridal fabric expert!  I hope that these terms will help you sift through the racks of gowns in your search for the perfect gown.  I know you will at least impress a bridal consultant or two by throwing out words from your new bridal vocabulary.

 

Happy shopping!

-Gown Boutique of Charleston

 

 

Gown Boutique of Charleston

843.856.2682 phone 843.856.2681 fax

info@gownboutiqueofcharleston.com

664-A Long Point Rd Belle Hall Shopping Center Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

 

 

 

 

 

Pawleys Island Bridals at Brookgreen Gardens by Carmen Ash Photography

Bride Jenny's Pawleys Island Bridal Session at Brookgreen Gardens by Myrtle Beach wedding vendors Blossoms Events and Carmen Ash Photography

Alhambra Hall Wedding {Jenna + Michael}

I'm wrapping up this week and heading into February the only way I know how...with a big, dreamy Lowcountry wedding!  This Charleston beauty took place on Mount Pleasant at the charming Alhambra Hall where Jenna + Michael tied the knot in a outdoor ceremony.   After, the newlyweds took a stroll with the talented Sally Watts Photography to capture a few breathtaking moments by the water.  Thanks to our friend, and ALW vendor, Pure Luxe Bride for coordinating this one-of-a-kind Southern affair! charleston weddingssouthern wedding blogsmyrtle beach wedding blogshilton head weddingswedding blogslowcountry weddings-dave landeo bandmyrtle beach wedding venues

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Charleston Wedding Vendors

Planning: Pure Luxe Bride  /  Photography: Sally Watts Photography  /  Venue: Alhambra Hall  /  Cake & Pies: Publix  /  Flowers: DIY  /  Decor: DIY  /  Music: Dave Landeo Band   /  Rentals: Snyder

 

Wild Dunes Wedding {Beth + Jeff}

Thanks to this crazy, springlike weather, we've all had a hankerin' to hightail it straight to the beach!  So, what better way to spend our Wedding Wednesday with a dreamy, Wild Dunes Wedding that will have you dying to stick your toes in the sand.  Beth + Jeff tied the knot this past September in the perfect coastal affair.  Luckily, our friends at Richard Bell Photography were on hand to document every single moment.  Their blue and white color palette couldn't have been better suited for the beach.  Don't you just love that bouquet? charleston weddingscharleston wedding venuescharleston wedding vendorscharleston wedding blogscharleston wedding photographyhilton head wedding vendorscoastal weddings

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Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photographer:  Richard Bell Photography  /  Reception Venue:  Wild Dunes Resort

 

 

Heritage Plantation Wedding {Jessica + TJ}

Jessica & TJ's Heritage Plantation wedding by Gillian Claire Photography

Charleston Engagement {Tim + Rachel}

We're headed into what is sure to be a fabulous, January weekend.  I mean, we're talking 75 degrees and sunny!  Is it springtime already!?!  So, in honor of this beautiful weather, I thought a gorgeous Charleston engagement from our pal Britt Croft Photography would be the perfect way to get the celebration started.  Tim + Rachel started things off dressed in the Steelers Save the Dates at the beach with their adorable, four-legged friend Bella before heading downtown to enjoy the historic Holy City! charleston weddingscharleston wedding blogscharleston wedding vendorscharleston wedding blogcharleston wedding venuesweddings in charlestonbritt croft photographyhilton head weddingshilton head wedding vendorsmyrtle beach wedding vendorslowcountry weddingsmyrtle beach weddingswedding blogssouth carolina weddingssouthern weddingscharleston wedding photographycharleston wedding photographers

 

 Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Britt Croft Photography

 

 

Charleston Engagement {Aimee + Aaron}

Oh, my word!  Thank you, thank you, thank you Valerie Schooling for this oh-so-heavenly Charleston engagement session.  For Part One, Aaron donned his military attire while the beautiful Miss Aimee dazzled in a vintage-inspired dress.  How romantic!  Later in the day, the couple changed into more casual attire as they gallivanted around the railroad tracks.  Isn't that natural light to die for?!

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 Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photography: Valerie Schooling Photography

 

 

 

Mills House Wedding {Haley + Greg}

Haley + Greg got hitched this past Fall in a formal, Southern affair in downtown Charleston.  Haley went with a chic black and pink color palette while she donned a classic ivory gown.  Their intimate ceremony took place at the First Baptist Church of Charleston before heading to the historic Mills House Hotel to celebrate the night away to the tunes of Finger Snappin' Entertainment!  Thanks to Mell Bell of Richard Bell Photography for capturing this fabulous Charleston Wedding! charleston wedding photography from richard bell photography at the mills house hotelcharleston wedding venuesrichard bell photographyweddings in charlestonabsolutely charleston trolleymyrtle beach weddingsfirst baptist church of charleston weddingsouth carolina weddingscharleston wedding photographyhart to hart medialowcountry weddingshilton head weddingscharleston wedding cakemills house hotel weddingscharleston weddingscharleston wedding vendorscharleston wedding blogs

 

 

Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photographer:  Richard Bell Photography  /  Hair Stylist:  Vanity Salon  /  Floral Designer:  Wedding Flowers by Lisa Ferguson  /  Cinema and Video:  Hart to Heart Media  /  Dress Store:  Dimitra Designs  /  Cake Designer:  Ashley Bakery  /  DJ:  FingerSnappin' Entertainment Transportation:  Charleston Coach, Absolutely Charleston  /  Event Venue:  Mills House Hotel  /  Ceremony:  First Baptist Church of Charleston

 

 

Charleston Bridals {Haley} Richard Bell Photography

You know we like to make you smile right?   Well, we thought you might want to kick off your morning with a little teaser from behind the lenses of Richard Bell Photography.  Cause Lord knows we want to!  This morning we're sharing Haley's stunning bridal session that took place in the heart of Holy City.  The talented Mell Bell spent the afternoon with the beautiful Bride as they started their jaunt at the Waterfront Park where the picturesque Pineapple fountain made an appearance before enjoying the cobblestone streets.  Haley stunned in a strapless gown with a beautiful beaded bodice and soft veil.  If you think this is swoon-worthy, just wait til this afternoon when you feast your eyes on Haley's Mills House Hotel Wedding!  It's a Lowcountry stunner you won't want to miss.

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Charleston Wedding Venue {Wild Dunes Resort}

For any of you gals that are planning a wedding in Charleston and are dying to be close to the beach (aren't we all?!?), then I may have just what you're looking for!  The stunning Wild Dunes Resort is hooking up their 2013 brides, so go run over to their website to check out all the details.

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For 2013 Wild Dunes Resort weddings held with $20,000 or more in contracted food and beverage revenue, you’ll receive the following with our compliments:

• One-night stay on your wedding night • Champagne and chocolate strawberries on your wedding night • Warm seashell couples massage for the bride and groom (our island version of the traditional hot stone massage) • Quintessential Charleston carriage ride to experience historic downtown Charleston, SC for the bridal party up to eight people • Groom’s Golf Package including up to eight tee-times on one of our award-winning golf courses during your wedding stay • In-room bridal suite salon pampering including hair and makeup complemented by tea sandwiches and mimosas for bridal party up to eight people

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Don't forget you can enhance your wedding experience with the following upgrades to experience the best of the Lowcountry.

• Fishing excursion on surrounding barrier islands and waterways for the groomsmen or wedding guests • Sunset sail along the Charleston Harbor for your wedding party • Signature Lowcountry broil or oyster roast rehearsal dinner on one of our oceanside venues • Farewell brunch along the Sea Island Grill terrace overlooking the picturesque Boardwalk Inn pools and boardwalk

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Contact Samantha Martin, Wild Dunes Wedding specialist, at 843.886.2283 or smartin@wilddunes.com or click here to starting planning your Charleston beach wedding today!

Offer available for new 2013 weddings only with $20,000 or more in contracted food and beverage revenue (excludes taxes, service charges and venue rental fees).  Based on availability. Restrictions and blackout dates apply.  Subject to end without notice.

 

 

Downtown Charleston Engagement {Patrick Hall Photography}

I've said it before and I'll say it again...I love a good engagement session.   Especially one that takes place in the land we love the most! What could be better than spending the afternoon with your sweetheart and a talent like Patrick Hall Photography to capture your pre-wedding bliss?  This adorable couple enjoyed a lovely late Spring afternoon in shorts as they gallivanted around the peninsula.  This downtown Charleston engagement session is chock-full of sweet, frame-able images as the couple tours the historic Holy City and The Battery!  Thanks to Charleston wedding vendor, Patrick Hall Photography for sharing!

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Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photography: Patrick Hall Photography

 

 

 

 

Savannah Wedding {Mickala + Brent}

Mickala + Brent's Savannah wedding at The Charles H. Morris Center by Scott Hopkins Photography

South Carolina Wedding {Jessica + JD}

Jessica + JD's South Carolina Wedding at the Bride's family home in Denmark, SC by Rick Dean Photography

Cagney's Boone Hall Plantation Bridals by Paige Winn Photo

Cagney's Boone Hall Plantation Bridals by Charleston wedding vendor Paige Winn Photo

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens Wedding by MCG Photography

Leah & Justin's Pink & Grey Magnolia Plantation and Gardens Wedding by MCG Photography, Vanity Salon and Engaging Events

Debordieu Club Wedding {Kacy + Justin}

I can't believe we're wrapping up 2012!  It's been a wonderful year here at A Lowcountry Wedding and we couldn't have done it with your support.  We've got big things in store for 2013 and can't wait to share all the big news!  Hint, hint: a lovely new online Lowcountry wedding magazine MAY be coming your way! To close out the year, we're sharing a stunner from a few of our favorite Myrtle Beach wedding vendors!  Kacy + Justin's beach affair took place at the breathtaking DeBordieu Club where the talented Paula Player Photography was on hand to capture all the lovely details.  Greenskeeper Florist created delicate hydrangea bouquets with touches of cream and peach roses while the bridesmaids wore aqua dresses.  The adorable couple said 'I do' on the beach before celebrating with their guests.  Thanks to Paula Player for this gorgeous DeBordieu Club wedding!

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 South Carolina Wedding Vendors

Photographer:  Paula Player Photography  /  Floral Designer:  Greenskeeper Florist  /  Reception Venue:  DeBordieu Club Cake Designer:  Incredible Edible Cakes  /  DJ:  Myrtle Beach DJ's

 

 

 

Marion Square Wedding {Leah + Brian}

To finish off this fabulous, Southern Wedding Sunday, we've got an intimate, Marion Square affair for you to gawk over!  Leah + Brian kept things simple and romantic.  She wore a beautiful, strapless gown with a killer, orchid bouquet, while her husband-to-be was dapper in his dress blues.  They said 'I do' in a small, outdoor ceremony and then joined their friends and family at the Embassy Suites for an evening of celebration!  Thanks to the lenses of Whimsey Photography by Cana for capturing all this stunning Charleston wedding! charleston wedding by whimsey photography by cana at marion squarecharleston wedding blogsorchid wedding bouquetcharleston wedding venuessouthern weddingsmyrtle beach weddingscharleston weddingsweddings in charlestoncharleston military weddingwedidng blogscharleston wedding vendorslowcountry weddingshilton head weddingscharleston destination weddingscharleston wedding photographywhimsey by cana photography

 

Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Whimsey Photography by Cana  /  Venue: Embassy Suites