Southern Weddings {Burlap} Wedding Decor

Who's got two thumbs and like a little burlap wedding decor!? THIS GIRL!  I mean, isn't it obvious? :)  I remember the first time I saw this Burlap + Bling inspiration shoot (see above and below!) from Nashville Photographer, Kristyn Hogan and the team at Cedarwood Weddings, my jaw dropped right to the floor.  Ah-maz-ing!  I remember thinking, if only I had seen this before I got married.  I'm pretty sure I would have translated every ounce of this shoot into some aspect of my Charleston wedding decor.  There's just something about burlap all dressed up that I can't get enough of.  It's easygoing, classic, beautiful...it just screams Lowcountry.  From serving trays to invitations, I've bundled up some of my favorite ways to incorporate burlap into your fabulous Hilton Head wedding.  Hope you enjoy!

{Katie + Allen} Charleston Wedding Engagement

I hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend and was able to take in a few SEWE events!   Our friends over at MCG Photography sent over Katie + Allen's classic Downtown Charleston wedding engagement session and it's just the thing to kick off this sunny Monday morning.  Katie is a student at the College of Charleston and just had to incorporate her love for the Holy City into lifelong memories with her soon-to-be husband, Allen.  The couple started the afternoon on campus, steps from the historical Cistern, then continued throughout the city as they stopped at Hank's Seafood Restaurant (where they had their post engagement celebration!), and up on a rooftop overlooking the Lowcountry.  Best of luck on the upcoming wedding!

I love this one.  Perfect weather, smiles and a steeple in the background...

Lyndsay + Jimmy {Brunswick Manor Wedding}

Deep in the Georgia Lowcountry, you'll find the charming Brunswick Manor in the heart of historic downtown Brunswick.   This beautiful Bed & Breakfast boasts a spacious veranda, high ceilings, a grand staircase and spectacular gardens...basically, the perfect backdrop for a wedding in the Deep South!   This past May, Lyndsay + Jimmy enlisted the world-class duo from  Brooke Roberts Photography to capture their Brunswick Manor wedding.  The talented crew at Straton Hall treated the guests to fabulous food and beautiful decor that made for a stunning Golden Isle evening!

Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Brooke Roberts Photography  /  Reception Venue: The Brunswick Manor  /  Caterer and Florist: Straton Hall  /  Dress Store: Lady in White Bridal  /  Dress Designer: Casablanca  /  Men's Attire: Ralph Lauren   

Charleston Weddings {Nikki + Shane} Francis Marion Hotel

You know we love some Charleston weddings, especially when killer photographers are involved.  This past April, the Lowcountry was graced with a visit from the talented destination duo of Kate Botwinski Photography.  The husband and wife team traveled all the way to the Holy City to capture the fabulous Spring wedding of Nikki + Shane.   The ladies spent the morning getting all dolled up thanks to the crew at Stella Nova and the magical brushes of Andrew C. Petersen.  Nikki looked flawless in her stunning Monique Lhullier gown while her husband-to-be looked dapper in his dress blues. They kicked off the perfect Saturday afternoon with a traditional Catholic ceremony at the grand Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.  After saying 'I do', the couple hopped in a carriage for a gorgeous photo session at The Battery & White Point Gardens with their bridal party.  The evening continued with a jaw-dropping reception at Downtown's lavish Francis Marion Hotel where the newlyweds revealed a showstopping first dance that got the party started!

Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Kate Botwinski Photography  /  Ceremony Venue: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist  /  Reception Venue: The Francis Marion Hotel  /  Dress Designer: Monique Lhuiller  /  Shoes: Zappos  /  Hair Designer: Stella Nova  /  Makeup: Andrew C. Petersen  /  Stationery: Dee Ruel  /  Bridesmaids Dresses:After Six by Dessy  /  Floral Designer: OK Florist  /  Videographer: That Frank Guy  /  Cake Designer: Artistic Cakes by Linda  /  Linens: Covers by Nicole  /  Entertainment: Super Deluxe

Kristen + Jonathan {Hawkesdene House Wedding}

Before we jump right in today fabulous Southern affair, we had to tell you about a new resource for all things travel in Charleston.  Our friends over at the uber-luxurious Charleston Place Hotel have started up a new blog, Hidden Charleston.  Whether you're a lifetime local or Lowcountry newbie, this is your guide to the most talked about dining establishments, favorite watering holes, one-of-a-kind events and all the historic hotspots. Normally, I like to write a little somethin' somethin' about the weddings that we post but  I just love what Louisiana photographer Claire Elyse had to say about Kristen + Jonathan's destination wedding that I thought I'd let her share today. So, from Miss Claire Elyse herself...

"Kristen and Jonathan’s wedding was one of those where I found myself counting down the days ‘til show time! It may have been because the wedding took place in the mountains of North Carolina, or perhaps because the bride and groom brought all the best of Louisiana to meet those mountains. It was all that and more. The details of this wedding were stunning, and even the vendors were the perfect mix of fun-loving South Louisiana meets breath taking North Carolina mountain highs. Jonathan proposed to Kristen in Andrews, North Carolina, so it was only appropriate to pack up the dress, cake, family, and bar and make a vacation out of it. The Hawkesdene House was one of my favorite venues to work with. The owners matched elegance with comfort. From the flowers, to one of Zoe’s Bakery’s masterpieces, to Abita Blues playing the requests of the bride and groom mixed with their own style. Kristen dreamt an amazing day into reality."

Southern Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Claire Elyse Photography  /   Venue: Hawkesdene House  /   Floral Designer: An English Garden  /   Hair Stylist: Barbers and Bombshells  /  Dress Store: Southern Bridal  /   Band: Abita Blues Band  /  Cake Designer: Zoe's Bakery 

Stripes {Wedding Decor}

We've been loving how many brides have incorporated stripes into their wedding color palettes.  Stripes are the perfect preppy and coastal addition to any girl's wedding decor...and let's face it, we love all things coastal and preppy here in Charleston. We've rounded up quite a few of our favorite ways to incorporate some stripped accessories into your Lowcountry Big Day!  They range from linens and invitations to bridesmaids dresses and favors...

Image by Brooke Images via Southern Weddings

Image by Jesse Leake via Style Me Pretty

Image via Once Wed Photography by Erin Hearts Court Event Design and Flowers by La Partie Events

 

Image via Rifle Paper Co.

 

Image by Kellie Kano Photography via Style Me Pretty

Image by Anne Marie Photography via Style Me Pretty

Image via Coco + Kelley   Image via Martha Stewart Weddings and Ocean House Weddings

Image by Agnes Lopez via Style Me Pretty

Image by Jose Villa via Southern Weddings

 

Images by One and Only Paris Photography via Style Me Pretty

Image by Genevive McKeiver via Style Me Pretty

Image via M. Robin Cakes

Image via Southern Weddings and Matchbook

Image via Anne Robert Photography

Terrilyn + Scott {Naples Wedding}

The Charleston area is home to countless destination weddings every year.  Couples are drawn to the city's rich history, timeless beauty, heavenly food and the indescribable Lowcountry ease. A certain excitement and build up comes with a destination wedding, not just from the bride and groom, but the guests as well. From the save-the-dates and weather to the local cuisine and stunning scenery, a destination wedding is a memorable occasion for all involved! Destination photographers Luminaire Foto sent over Terrilyn + Scott's fabulous destination affair at the swanky Ritz Carlton Golf Resort in Naples, Florida and we just couldn't wait to post it.  Terrilyn was glowing in her strapless gown and makeup from Hope Henderson Artistry that she accessorized with pearl jewelry and a gorgeous bouquet.  They used a vibrant palette of pinks and oranges that seemed very fitting of their palm tree rich venue.  Guests were treated to a sweet outdoor ceremony followed by a dazzling reception with amazing decor, lively entertainment from RW Music and a killer cake!

 Southern Wedding Vendors

Ceremony and Reception Venue: The Ritz Carlton Golf Resort, Naples  /  Photographer: Luminaire Foto  /  Makeup Artist: Hope Henderson Artistry  /  Entertainment: RW Music

Jennifer + Patrick {Legare Waring House Wedding}

Our friends over at Richard Ellis Photography recently sent over Jennifer + Patrick's timeless Charleston wedding and we just couldn't wait to share it with you!  Last February, on the grounds of Charlestowne Landing, the couple tied the knot under the breathtaking avenue of oaks. Since Patrick had proposed under the same oaks trees just months beforehand (with his great-grandmother's engagement ring!), the historic grounds were the only option for their wedding day location. After their beautiful outdoor ceremony, the couple moved the reception to the lawn of the Legare Waring House. Here, guests enjoyed a fabulous assortment of Charleston cuisine from Saigon Catering, exquisite natural floral arrangements from Country & Lace and the lively Joe Clarke Big Band who kept the crowd dancing all night long!  As the sun set behind the gorgeous Legare Waring House, it made for a spectacular backdrop to a stunning Lowcountry wedding!

 Charleston Wedding Vendors

Photographer: Richard Ellis Photography  /  Ceremony and Reception Venue: Legare Waring House  /  Coordinator: Anita Flowers  /  Gown: Oleg Cassini  /  Cake: Artistic Cakes by Linda Blackwell  /  Florist: Country & Lace  /  Officiant: Don Flowers  /  Band: Joe Clarke Big Band  /  Caterer: Saigon Catering  /  stationery: dulles designs

Anne Marie + Ryan {Carnton Plantation Wedding}

I may be a little biased, but in my opinion, you just can't beat a big Southern plantation wedding.  They're always dripping with tradition and timeless beauty and Anne Marie + Ryan's Nashville Soiree was no different.  The bride wore a stunning lace gown while her groom looked dashing in a classic tuxedo.  After a traditional church ceremony, they moved the party to the magnificent Carnton Plantaton in Franklin, Tennessee.  The grounds of the historic plantation made for the perfect backdrop as Evin Photography was able to capture some private moments between the newlyweds.  Social Ambitions Events orchestrated a fabulous event with the help of some of Nashville's finest wedding vendors; Nashville Event Lighting, Music City Tents & Events, Sharp Garden Center and Sweet Temptations.

Southern Wedding Vendors

Photographer:  Evin Photography  /  Event Planner:  Social Ambitions Events  /

Floral Designer:  Sharp Garden Center and Gifts  /  Reception Venue:  Carnton Plantation  /  Cake Designer:  Sweet Temptations  /  Band:  Scat Springs Entertainment  /  Lighting:  Nashville Event Lighting  /  Equipment Rentals:  Music City Tents & Events

Alyson + Chris {Bentley's on the Bay Wedding}

Bentley's on the Bay is a beautiful waterfront venue situated on the picturesque Choctawhatchee Bay in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida.  Last May, Bentley's was the venue of choice to host Chris + Alyson's rustic Southern wedding.  Their wedding day was designed to a southern 'T' and I just know you guys are going to go crazy over these oh-so lowcountry wedding details and fabulous images from Dede Edwards Photography.  With the help of florist Cari DeGregorio, Alyson's achieved a gorgeous neutral color palette combined with our favorite classic southern elements: burlap, driftwood and cotton.  Basically, it's the perfect coastal wedding.

Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: dede edwards photography  /  reception venue: bentley's on the bay  /  floral designer: cari degregorio flowers  / cake designer: sugar lily sweet shop

Kelly Sauer {Wedding Photography Giveaway}

So, our talented photographer friend Mrs. Kelly Sauer just launched The Girl in the White Dress and to celebrate this more personal, wedding-specific branch of Kelly Sauer Ltd, she has decide to bless Lowcountry brides with not one, but TWO free weddings!   Kelly has a knack for catching the perfect light and if you're hoping for some truly romantic images on your Charleston wedding day then she's your girl!  Check out the guidelines below and don't forget to visit Kelly's post for additional details.

 Each wedding will include an engagement session, 6-8 hours of wedding coverage, 300-350 images, a one-of-a-kind proof book, a web album, and a DVD with the digital proofs. ($3600 value)

A Few Portfolio-Wedding Rules – So You Know EXACTLY What I’m Looking For:

• You must be planning an outdoor wedding or a beach wedding. I will be giving away one of each. • Your desired photography coverage must be between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. • You must be willing/able to allot at least an hour on your wedding day for photos of the couple and the full wedding party. (If we do this pre-ceremony, we will walk you down an aisle to your groom for an uber-romantic, utterly tender first look at one another.) • I must be available on your wedding date.

To enter, just fill out the following questionnaire. Once you have completed it, please email your responses to kelly@thegirlinthewhitedress.com:

1. What is the Groom’s Name/Bride’s Name? 2. What is your wedding date? 3. What is your venue/location? 4. What priority do you place on photography for your wedding day? 5. What feeling are you trying to create for your day? 6. Where are you drawing inspiration for your wedding? 7. How do you feel my work would help you capture that feeling? 8. Do you have a proposed ceremony start time? 9. What is your planned reception end time? 10. How many guests are you expecting? 11. What is your wedding budget? 12. What is your photography budget? 13. What cake flavor are you having? 14. Tell me about your wedding. What makes your wedding different from every other wedding? What details are you incorporating to tell your love story? What is your very favorite thing about the wedding? Be creative. I want to know you. I want to know your story. 15. What is your favorite image from The Girl in the White Dress slideshow, and why? 16. How did you hear about Kelly Sauer, Ltd. Co. and The Girl in the White Dress?

Kristen + Drake {Dunaway Gardens Wedding}

We're kicking off 2012 with this dreamy Georgia wedding from Kelly Is Nice Photography.  The couple, Kristen + Drake, were wed in a beautiful outdoor ceremony on the grounds of Dunaway Gardens in Newnan, Georgia.   The bride and her father walked down the aisle to a beautiful rendition of  Mark O'Connor's "Appalachia Waltz" from the Candlelight String Quartet.  Kristen is nothing short of stunning...I mean, I'm pretty sure she was a Disney princess in a past life, and she looked amazing in her strapless gown.  Kristen even created all of  the bouquets and boutonnieres herself which is quite a task!  The fabulous cake from Cakes by Dawn perfectly complimented the sweet vintage feel of the entire evening.

Vendors

photographer: kelly is nice photography  /  venue: dunaway gardens  /  caterer: chick fil-a  /  musicians: candlelight string quartet  /  cake designer: cakes by dawn  /  bridesmaids dresses: etain bridal boutique

Megan + Joel {Tennessee Wedding}

My out-of-office message is officially up, my car is packed and (almost) all my gifts are purchased and wrapped but before I head to Florida for the long Christmas weekend, I just had to share Megan's dreamy Southern wedding with you.  This past September, Megan and her groom, Joel, tied the knot in Knoxville, Tennessee at the stunning Pavillion at Hunter Valley Farms.  For the big day, she selected a fabulous preppy color palette of navy, green and pink.  The couple lucked out with perfect weather for their outdoor ceremony where Kristin from KLP Photography was on hand to capture all of the memorable moments.  After some gorgeous shots of the newly married couple, they joined their guests for a lively reception!

Vendors

photographer: klp photography  /  the pavillion at hunter valley farms

Valla + David {Charleston Wedding}

Valla + David's Charleston wedding took place this past November overlooking the water at the stunning Renaissance on Charleston Harbor.  This venue is every Lowcountry bride's dream.  Not only are you surrounded by  the relaxing atmosphere of the marsh, a perfect coastal breeze and unmatched sunsets, but you'll also get amazing views of the statuesque Cooper River Bridge.  Not bad, eh?  Valla donned a beautiful Alfred Angelo gown that she accessorized with a rustic bouquet from the talented team at Horst Wholesale as she walked down the aisle.  Surrounded by their closest friends and family, the couple's 'I do's' took place just steps from David's childhood home.  After the ceremony, the newlyweds and their photographer, Mikkel Paige, captured some frame-able shots out by the docks.  They continued their celebration at the Renaissance on Charleston Harbor where guests were treated to Lowcountry cuisine from Cafe Catering and a fabulous Publix that matched Valla's gown.

Charleston Wedding Vendors

 photographer: mikkel page photography  /  reception venue: renaissance on charleston harbor  /  hair stylist: grace salon spa  /  caterer: cafe catering  /  floral designer: horst wholesale  /  dress designer:  alfred angelo bridal  /  cake designer: publix

Lindsey + Adam {Florida Engagement}

Lindsey + Adam's Tallahassee Engagement Session is so awesome that it took two days to complete!  Dressed in their stylish vintages duds, the soon-to-be-newlyweds met up with Florida photographer, Shutter Pop Photo, for part one at the Train Station. Throughout the day, Adam kept the crew laughing and his darling bride smiling as they explored the tracks.  St. Mark's National Wildlife Refuge and lighthouse set the stage for the second portion of the session.  With their blanket and picnic basket in tow, Lindsey + Adam were able to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery and gorgeous sunset.

A Lowcountry Wedding Blog featuring Charleston Weddings, Hilton Head Weddings, Myrtle Beach Weddings and Southern Weddings

Jess + Zach {Minnesota Wedding}

I'm in love with Jess + Zach's effortless Minnesota wedding from Shea Christine Photography.  The couple wed had perfect weather this past September as their recited their vows under a beautiful gazebo along the banks of the Mississippi River.  Afterwards, the newlyweds hosted their 100 guests in an intimate reception at Riedel Farm Estate in Fridley, Minnesota.  Their theme of simplicity ran throughout the wedding by using a mix of hydrangeas and burlap for decor.  Shea put it best when she said, "This wedding was simple & beautiful. It goes to show how the right venue & simplicity can go a long way."  

Wedding Vendors

photographer:shea christine photography /  ceremony and reception venue: riedel farm estate 

A Lowcountry Wedding Blog featuring Charleston Weddings, Southern Weddings, HIlton Head Weddings, Myrtle Beach Weddings

A Lowcountry Wedding Vendor Giveaway!

 We are so thrilled and thankful for the amazing brides and vendors who have been overly supportive of  A Lowcountry Wedding.  Your support has allowed us to grow tremendously this past year and we can't wait to see what 2012 has in store for us!  Over the past few months, we've been working hand-in-hand with the talented Sarah Kate Snyder of Studio Snyder to develop an amazing new site for A Lowcountry Wedding, that, fingers crossed, should be ready to go live in just a few weeks.  (Seriously, it's so awesome it tends to keep me up at night!)  So, as a way of saying thanks to all of our supportive vendors we're giving away blog tiles to {3} randomly selected Lowcountry Wedding Professionals!  The winners will be receive a free tile on ALW for 3 months.  How awesome is that!? 

 Image via Joe Hendricks Photography

To enter, simply leave us some love!  

Drop us a line either here on ALW, our Facebook page or tweet us at @alowcountrywed telling us you're entering the A Lowcountry Wedding Vendor Giveaway!  The giveaway is open to any Lowcountry area wedding vendor and ends Friday, December 16th at 5:00 pm.  We'll select {3} random winners that will be announced Monday, December 19th.  

Best of luck! 

Image via Monica Day Photography

...and Brides, don't worry, we haven't forgotten about you!  You're up next :)

Catherine + Michael {Savannah Wedding}

Before we get to today's Southern wedding, I just wanted to remind all of our Lowcountry vendors to check back later this afternoon for our big giveaway!  Catherine + Michael wed this past June at the charming Mackey House in the Savannah Lowcountry. Photographed by the talented Chris Isham, this effortless wedding boasted a classic Southern color palette of pink, green and white that the team at Kiwi Fleur translated perfectly into some stunning florals...just check out Catherine's bouquet!  Peonies and orchids? Yes, please!  Catherine looked timeless in her lace wedding gown with hair swept up.  In her shoe she carried a silver sixpence to complete the "Something Old, Something New..." poem.  The duo opted to see each other prior to the ceremony and the combination of the adorable pair and the picturesque backdrop made for some seriously frame-able images.  

Oh, and just in case you're wondering, that's Dave from Lady A, it's Michael's brother...

 

 

 

Lowcountry Wedding Vendors

photographer: chris isham photography  /  caterer: chef nick mueller & company  /   

florist: kiwi fleur  /  reception venue: the mackey house

A Lowcountry Wedding blog featuring Charleston Weddings, Hilton Head Weddings, Myrtle Beach Weddings, Southern Weddings

Amy + Casey {Texas Wedding}

For Round Two, we've got another beautiful Texas affair.  Amy + Casey's got married this past August in Palestine, Texas (just outside of Dallas) and one of our favorites, AlexM Photography, was their capture all the details.  Their wedding was held at the enchanting Elmwood Gardens and was planned to a T by Perfect Plans.  Their stunning outdoor ceremony had a Southern glam vibe that included some amazing draping and a gorgeous chandeliers.  While the bridal party rocked all black, Amy incorporated pops of purple and green throughout the evening.

 Southern Wedding Vendors

photographer: alexm photography  /  event planner: perfect plans  /  floral designer: la tee da  /  reception venue: elmwood gardens  /  cinema and video:  jmhpro  /  cake designer: desings by d'anne

A Lowcountry Wedding Blog featuring Charleston Weddings, Hilton Head Weddings, Myrtle Beach Weddings and Southern Weddings

Sarah + CJ {Fort Worth Wedding}

Just in case you haven't heard, tomorrow we've got an exciting giveaway for our favorite Lowcountry Wedding Vendors...so don't miss it!  Today's wedding was captured by David Lunt Photography at the Marty Leonard Chapel in Fort Worth, Texas.  In case you've never been, Fort Worth is a pretty awesome city.  It's got that Southern ease mixed with a Western Charm which is exactly why Sarah + CJ had to travel all the way from Kentucky just to tie the knot in this fabulous Texas city.  Since having a destination wedding meant that some of their guests would be unable to make the trip, Sarah asked they donate a broach to her which she then made into her beautiful bouquet.  Sarah + CJ let their personalities shine through in their retro chic wedding.  Sarah looked ah-mazing in her Marilyn Monroe-esque gown, fab red shoes and gorgeous birdcage veil while CJ stayed true to himself by sporting a pair of black Chuck Taylors.

Southern Wedding Vendors

ceremony and reception venue: marty leonard chapel  / 

photographer: david lunt photography

 

A Lowcountry Wedding Blog featuring Charleston Weddings, Hilton Head Weddings, Myrtle Beach Weddings and Southern Weddings