Southern Weddings {Jada + Dan}

Hope everyone is having a Happy Wednesday and staying cool from this serious summer heat!  I'm so excited to share Jada + Dan's sweet North Carolina engagement session by Charlotte Photographer, Vanessa Schrotenboer.  They spent the day at Latta Plantation as Vanessa captured some very frame-able images of couple in their element.  The lighting is perfect, the setting is beautiful and can you get a cuter couple? I don't think so!

Images by Vanessa Schrotenboer via Two Bright Lights

Southern Weddings {Wedding Bouquets}

You can call Pinterest an addiction but I like to refer to it as research :)  I always thought it would be so fun to be a florist.  Would you not love to be surrounded by gorgeous blooms all day long?  I remember when I was planning my wedding and you could not pry me from the computer. I was constantly searching and searching for the perfect bouquet, boutonniere, centerpieces etc.  Sometimes, I would just find one type of flower or a particular shade of color that would be exactly what I was looking for.  So, my hopes in sharing Part II of Wedding Bouquets (Don't miss Part I!) is that they'll be that perfect bit of inspiration that has been the missing link to your wedding day inspiration board...

Enjoy!

Image via Bippity Boopity Boo

Image by Erin Hearts Court via Style Me Pretty

Image via Helen Carter Weddings

Images via Once Wed and Helen Chapple

Image via Southern Weddings

Image via Kiss the Groom

Images via Wedding Chicks and Ruffled

Image via The Bride's Cafe

Southern Wedding {Katy + Jason}

Ashley of Live. Laugh. PHOTOGRAPH sent over this perfectly charming Southern wedding, complete with cowboys boots and live country music...Texas style!  The couple, Katy + Jason, were wed June 11, 2011 just outside of Dallas at Loma Linda in beautiful Rockett, Texas.  Doesn't Katy just look flawless in her strapless gown, pearls and cowboy boots?  I love it.  The rustic venue allowed for a touching outdoor ceremony under the trees.  After, the guest made their way to the reception where the dined on Randy's BBQ's signature cuisine and later indulged in their choice of two fabulous desserts by Dallas Affaires Cake Co.  To top of the evening, the guests danced the night away to the tunes of Chad McBride and The Drifters. 

All in all, I'd have to say it was a perfect Texas Wedding...

Images via Two Bright Lights

vendor recap

photographer: live. laugh. PHOTOGRAPH   /  cake designer: dallas affaires cake co.  /  band: chad mcbride & the drifters  /  ceremony & reception venue: loma linda  /  caterer: randy's bbq  / 

Southern Wedding Engagement {Brittany + Skylar}

I always enjoy when couples include their pups in the engagement photos.  My two boys are like my kids and I really regret not having them join us...even though I'm pretty sure they would not have been half as well behaved as these two sweethearts.  But luckily for all of us, Brittany + Skylar just had to include theirs.  Our new friend, Southern wedding photographer Meg Baisden, spent a gorgeous New Orleans afternoon with the couple as they made their way through City Park.  They were blessed with beautiful weather, perfect light and a nice helping of Spanish moss (which any good Southerner can appreciate).  Hope everyone has a fabulous Charleston weekend! 

Jennifer + Jonathan {Southern Engagement}

Even though I have always been a fan of their old school bottling, I'm slightly ashamed to admit that I've never, EVER, tasted the inherently Southern concoction, Cheerwine.  Somewhere along the way my Southern upbringing seemed to miss that one which I think is only fair to blame on my parents' Midwestern roots.  Unlike yours truly, today's outdoorsy couple, Jennifer + Jonathan, have had many-a Cheerwine. 

The couple both hail from Salisbury, North Carolina (Cheerwine's birthplace) and decided to combine their love of their hometown, Cheerwine and canoeing in this gorgeous rustic engagement session.  Thanks  to our friends at Connection Photography, Joseph and Andrea, for sharing!

Charleston Engagement {Jeana + Stan}

This past Fall, our friends over at Chi Photography spent a lovely afternoon with Jeana + Stan as they gallivanted around Charleston's Waterfront Park.  With the Lowcountry as the backdrop, and Jeana + Stan front in center, Chi captured some truly Charleston-esque elements in these wonderfully vivid and perfectly photographed shots.   From the famous Pineapple Fountain and cobblestone roads, to the Cooper River Bridge and Charleston Harbor, we hope you enjoy this beautiful Downtown Engagement Session.

Stevie + Trevor {Southern Wedding}

I can't wait for you guys to check out these vivid images the talented Evan of Purus Wedding Studios recently sent over.  The loving couple, Stevie + Trevor, wed this past Memorial Day Weekend in Luling, Texas (right outside of Austin) at the picturesque Hillview Ranch.  The combination of their rustic color palette, her stunning Alfred Angelo gown and perfect Summer light made for a day of enviable wedding photos.  I just can't properly put into words how beautiful all of these shots are, particularly the ones of Stevie + Trevor surrounded by the gorgeous Texas landscape as the sun begins to set.   Enjoy...

Images via Two Bright Lights

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: purus wedding studios  / gown: alfred angelo /  reception venue: hillview ranch   

Southern Wedding {Kate + Scott} Part II

If you missed Part I this morning, let me fill you in...Kate + Scott were wed on May 28, 2011 at the beautiful St. Patrick's Catholic Church followed by a perfectly Southern reception at Richwood Plantation in Milton, Kentucky.  While the men donned grey tuxes, the girls sported navy bridesmaids dresses accented with beautiful purple and white bouquets by In Bloom Again.   Oh, and my favorite part...the picture of Scott's impressive headstand and Kate's backhand spring, mind you! That would have ended in two faceplants if my husband and I would have attempted that!

Special thanks to Josh from Sunlit Images for sharing this sweet Kentucky Wedding!

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: sunlit images  / floral designer: in bloom again /  reception venue: richwood plantation   /  cake designer: mert's cakes / hair + makeup: blush on main /

Southern Wedding {Kate + Scott}

I'm in love.  Josh from Sunlit Images recently sent over Kate + Scott's sweet Kentucky Wedding and I could barely contain my excitement...and, actually, I may have gone a little overboard.  I love when photographers take advantage of the outdoor natural light and Josh did just that on this perfect Kentucky Day.  Sunlit Images captured so many darling shots of precious Kate and her handsome groom that I just HAD to turn it into a Two Part-er!  The couple were wed on May 28, 2011 at the beautiful St. Patrick's Catholic Church followed by a perfectly Southern reception at Richwood Plantation in Milton, Kentucky.  While the men donned grey tuxes, the girls sported navy bridesmaids dresses accented with beautiful purple and white bouquets by In Bloom Again.

Check back later this afternoon for Part II!

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: sunlit images  / floral designer: in bloom again /  reception venue: richwood plantation   /  cake designer: mert's cakes / hair + makeup: blush on main /

Shauna + Jeremy {Picnic Engagement}

In honor of the upcoming Fourth of July weekend here in Charleston, we wanted to share Shauna + Jeremy's picnic-inspired wedding engagement session.  The couple's love for ice cream (join the club!) and the perfect Ohio Summer day made for these beautiful vintage images by Connection Photography.  This shoot is pouring with flawless details.  From the red and white picnic cloth, the fitting book titles,  scrumptious cupcakes and oh-so perfect sunlight, this session captures Shauna + Jeremy's timeless love for each other.  Oh, and I just can't get enough of the over-sized letters in the field... precious.

Special thanks to Joseph of Connections Photography for sending these over!  Best of luck to the happy couple for a wonderful marriage and stress-free engagement!

Southern Wedding {Heidi + Aaron}

Recently, Raleigh photographer Carolyn Scott sent over Heidi + Aaron's April nuptials and I just couldn't wait to post this charming Spring wedding.  The couple said 'I do' at the Raleigh Rose Garden and couldn't have selected a more beautiful ceremony location.  With the gardens in full bloom, Kellie looked stunning in her strapless gown accessorized with a sweet birdcage veil, while the maids donned apple green dresses that perfectly complimented this springtime affair.  From there, they moved the party to lovely Sheraton Raleigh Hotel where they enjoyed the rest of the evening surrounded by the Raleigh skyline. 

The groom's mother and uncle were dealt the colossal task of arranging the bouquets and flower arrangements after a storm in the South delayed the shipment of the wedding flowers..I think they did a fabulous job!

Carolyn captured the happy couple perfectly throughout the day with refreshing, vivid images.  Check out her informative blog post on the big day.  She gives great tips on location selections and the best time of day to take pictures.

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: carolyn scott photography  / ceremony venue: raleigh rose garden /  reception venue: sheraton raleigh hotel   /  music: paul fitts /

Lowcountry Wedding {Cakes}

I love how wedding cakes are the focal point of a reception.  It's like they're that final piece that ties everything together and I've been running across some truly beautiful ones recently and I just had to share with my favorite Lowcountry brides.  The South Carolina coast is home to some of the most-sought after cake designers in the country and we're glad they choose to bless Charleston, Hilton Head and Myrtle Beach weddings with their masterful creations.  There are some that are classic, some that are fascinatingly intricate and a few I've never seen before....Enjoy!

Charleston Weddings {Lula Kate Sample Sale}

This Thursday through Saturday (June 23-25th), LulaKate is having a sample sale...and if you've never been to their sample sale you need to take note of this one.  They'll be marking down all of their gorgeous, slightly worn samples.  We're talking discounts over 75% OFF. 

The discounted frocks include a selection of past and present styles and maybe even a wedding gown, or two! 

LulaKate offers a variety of stunning bridesmaids dresses that come in any shade you can imagine and will flatter every body shape.  You should also keep in mind that LulaKate designs can also double as your rehearsal dinner or getaway attire (I donned the Maggie for my pre-wedding day affair)...they're the perfect cocktail dress.   Not only has LulaKate mastered the bridesmaid dress but now they've ventured into bridal gowns, as well.  Much like their bridesmaid dresses, their high quality, stylish gowns have great shape...perfect for a Charleston wedding.

Don't miss this! For real!

  No appointment necessary.

June 23rd- 25th

10am- 6pm

324 King Street

Charleston SC 29401

Erika + Sean {Fantasy of Flight Museum}

Hope everyone had a nice relaxing weekend!  We wanted to kick off the week with Erika + Sean's All American engagement session.  Since both the bride and groom are currently in the military for aviation, the Fantasy of Flight Museum in Polk City, Florida was the perfect spot for Fishy Face Studios to capture the sweet couple with these rare, vintage aircrafts.

The jumper the groom is sporting is Erika's father's old military attire. 

To view more images, check out Fishy Face Studios' blog here.

Fishy Face Studios is husband/wife team located in Central Florida

but available for destination weddings across the country. 

fishyfacestudios@gmail.com

Follow them on Facebook!

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!

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