Georgia Weddings

Anytime I see that a wedding took place in Savannah my heart starts to swoon. This elegant affair by Ave Nocturna Photography is, in one word, breathtaking. The lavish florals by Harvey Designs pair up perfectly with the wonderful live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. A long time fan of all things BHLDN, I’m crushing on their bridesmaids dresses even more now after seeing them in action. Head to the full gallery for more loveliness.

From the Bride… After meeting and dating my now-husband for three years in Georgia, it was never a question that we would marry in the city of our first formal date: Savannah. Soon after Mark’s romantic proposal overlooking the Savannah River, I began thinking of ways to really showcase the beautiful city on our special day. Savannah encompasses so much romance, history and tradition, and these were exactly the elements I wanted incorporated in our wedding. From the moment we drove down the oak-lined entrance of Bethesda’s Home for Boys, we knew we had found the location. The grounds are home to the oldest existing orphanage in the U.S., dating back to the 1700’s, and the Whitefield Chapel is situated beautifully among majestic live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. As I opened the doors to the quaint chapel lined with rustic pine pews seated upon brick flooring, I immediately began to cry. It was exactly what we wanted for an intimate and personal ceremony. To keep in line with the simplistic beauty of the surroundings, Amy from Harvey Designs help me pick baby’s breath, peonies and roses in a neutral color palette of ivories and soft blushes to decorate the church and reception.

Our downtown reception took place at the beautiful and historic Scarborough House and Gardens. We had trolleys to escort guests to the wedding location and back downtown for the party. Our menu included traditional southern fare with crab cakes, stuffed mushrooms, and quail breast for passed hors d’oeuvres, followed by pork belly, shrimp and grits, and a beef carving station for main course. Chef Nick Mueller and his wife were incredible to work with and went above and beyond to create a fantastic menu that incorporated both our wishes and personalities. They even gifted us with traditional baklava for dessert in honor of my mother’s Greek heritage. Mollie Stone created an incredible wedding cake, and as a surprise for Mark, my grandmother was sweet enough to make her famous carrot cake as a groom’s cake! After eating and drinking, we danced the night away to classic blues and jazz performed by a 13-piece band, “The Sapphire Bullets of Pure Love with the Bonaventure Horns.” After our  first dance to Van Morrison’s “Someone  Like You,” the band went into classics, such as Bobby Darin’s “Mack the Knife,” Frank Sinatra’s “Always and Forever” and Mack Rice’s “Mustang Sally.” We finished the evening off by leaving in a Savannah pedi-cab to our nearby downtown hotel. To make the day even more personal, our ceremony officiant is a dear family friend and was my father’s best man in his wedding. We were also fortunate to have the talented Keli Brown as our photographer. The day was perfect. The one piece of advice I would give to other brides is to try and really connect with your vendors and don’t choose one unless you do. Mark and I felt so blessed to have so many wonderful people to help make our day so special!

Wedding Photography: Keli Brown of Ave Nocturna Photography / Ceremony: Whitefield Chapel at Bethesda Academy in Savannah, Georgia / Reception: The Scarbrough House in Savannah, Georgia / Event Planning: Tricia Windom / Floral Design: Amy Harvey of Harvey Designs / Wedding Cinematography: HD Savannah / Wedding Cake: Mollie Stone / Groom’s Cake: The Bride’s Grandmother / Band: The Sapphire Bullets of Pure Love featuring The Bonaventure Horns / Transportation: Old Savannah Tours / Wedding Dress: Jim Hjelm / Bride’s Veil + Dress Tailoring: Cate Lyon (912-238-9410) / Bride’s + Bridesmaids’ Shoes: Seychelles / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: BHLDN “Tracery” in Shell

We’ve all heard the saying “the couple that plays together stays together” and I just love how this couple chose to play together on their one year wedding anniversary.  The wonderful work by Mackensey Alexander Photography fully captures the relaxed, comfortable yet chic aesthetic of the session and the overall design by Intrigue Design & Decor + 2hands Studios is hands down fabulous! There’s more to drool over in the full gallery here.

From Meg Vendley (The Bride)… I love weddings and styled shoots and always thought about putting together a vintage shoot for our one-year anniversary. When my wedding florist, Intrigue Design & Decor, along with the help of 2hands Studios, offered to make a vintage fabric bouquet and boutonniere for the event, I knew I had to put it together. I searched for a local photographer with an ethereal but artistic style and found Mackensey. She was absolutely perfect to work with, and she was able to capture the classic Savannah style that I wanted. I love vintage and shabby items and thought that style fit perfectly with the rich history of Savannah. Everything in the shoot was found at vintage shops or from our own home. My favorite pieces were the 1930s champagne glasses for my us to toast with and the monogrammed pendant he gave me as an anniversary gift. I even baked and decorated the cupcakes myself! Putting together this photo shoot was such a fun and memorable way to celebrate our anniversary and our new Savannah home.

Photography: Mackensey Alexander Photography / Location: Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia / Floral Design: Intrigue Design & Decor + 2hands Studios / Event Design: Meg Vendley (The Bride) / Dress: Paloma Blanca / Shoes: Vera Wang Lavender / Sweater: J.Crew / Necklace: Jennifer Zeuner

Eight years of dating gives a bride plenty of time to envision her wedding day, and once the question is finally popped,  the vision can become a reality! This DIY-filled wedding was planned to perfection by a bride who works in the industry and knew how to create the personalized touches that made the couple’s big day a true reflection of them. Kelli Boyd Photography captured all the details and you can see the rest in the full gallery!

From Kelli Boyd Photography… After eight years of courtship, Joe asked for Jaclyn’s hand in marriage on a sunny day in Savannah a little over a year ago. Once the ring was on, the planning was full steam ahead. Jaclyn had worked in the bridal industry for five years, so she had a general idea of what she wanted their wedding to be like. Being a creative person and a designer at heart, she chose to make her wedding a complete DIY success! She created and made almost everything: her veil, bridesmaids’ dresses, bouquets, centerpieces, linens for the candy buffet and a fabulous quilt! Jaclyn wanted her wedding to have a vintage feel, so she incorporated old milk crates as centerpieces and used the glasses as favors for her guests. She created silhouettes of her and Joe to use as decor for her reception. She wore a Romona Keveza gown from Bluebelle Bridal, and Joe wore a southern seersucker suit. She chose a purple color palette because of its versatility and to suit her maids.They were wed at Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church on June 9. The couple both participated in directing the youth program for the church, so their ceremony was very special to the both of them. While planning their wedding, Jaclyn realized that her break from the wedding industry was over. She and Joe will be moving to Chicago, where she will transition into the role of manager at the Macy’s Bridal Salon. The salon will also feature an exclusive line of veils designed by Jaclyn. Jaclyn says, “It really was the most perfect day. Having thought about our wedding since we first started dating eight years ago, I couldn’t have imagined it turning out any better! All of the DIY projects allowed me to get the exact look we wanted and utilize my talented friends in the process.”

Wedding Photography: Kelli Boyd Photography / Ceremony: Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church in Savannah, Georgia / Reception: American Legion in Savannah, Georgia / Floral Design: DIY by the Bride / Quilt: DIY by the Bride / Wedding Dress: Romona Keveza via Bleubelle Bridal / Bride’s Veil: DIY by the Bride / Bride’s Shoes: Kate Spade / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: DIY by the Bride

Get ready to meet the perfect blend of southern hospitality and upscale elegance by First City Events. Combined with effortless floral arrangements by A to Zinnias and the nostalgia of Whitefield Square, this wedding is one for the record books! Not only is the picturesque landscape alluring, but so are the images by Memories n More. Don’t worry, there are plenty more to see in the full gallery of images!

From First City Events… Kim put her complete faith in us by allowing us to plan her pretty in pink wedding from afar, using pictures, emails, phone calls and story boards to describe her perfect day. It wasn’t until the week of the wedding that Kim saw her ceremony and reception sites for the first time. Thank goodness it was love at first sight! Kim went with a beautiful mix of pinks for her flowers and decor. Custom stationery was put on everything from water bottles at the park to place cards. Custom signs let guests know what was on the bar menu and the sweet cake flavors. The bridal cake featured alternating layers of red velvet with cream cheese icing and white chocolate cake with butter cream icing; while the groom’s cake was all chocolate. After a lovely day and an fun night, the two left for their happily ever after in a classic car.

Wedding Photography: Memories n More / Ceremony: Whitefield Square in Savannah, Georgia / Reception: Vic’s on the River in Savannah, Georgia / Event Planning: First City Events / Floral Design: A to Zinnias / Officiant: Rev. Stephen Schulte / Wedding Stationery: Merrymint Designs / Bakery: Two Cakes / Rentals: Savannah Special Events / Harpist: New Arts Ensembles / DJ: Jeff Kaar of First City Events / Transportation: Old Savannah Tours + Classic Car Timeless Motor Coaches / Accommodations: AVIA Savannah / Party Favors: Two Smart Cookies / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Hair + Makeup: Spa Bleu / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Nordstrom / Rehearsal Dinner: Churchill’s Pub & Restaurant

If a traditional southern soiree tickles your fancy, consider these Nate Henderson Photography photos your fix for today. Charming church ceremony? Check. Springy Harvey Designs florals? Wait till you see the sweet touch hanging from the door below. What is it about Savannah that makes it so striking from every angle? Perhaps its the fact that no matter where the camera points, historic architecture and lush greenery stretch as far as the eye and or lens can see. The sun shining through Spanish moss dripping from tree branches at this Savannah Golf Club reception definitely doesn’t hurt the case for the 360 degree views. See it all plus this couple’s excellent exit in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Nate Henderson Photography… Lauren and Greg were married on a beautiful spring day in the heart of downtown Savannah at Trinity United Methodist Church. Their traditional ceremony was followed with portraits near Telfair Square, then everyone headed to the Savannah Golf Club for the reception. Roses, peonies, tulips and hydrangeas in shades of white, cream, coral, and salmon filled the bouquets and centerpieces. They exited the reception to an abundance of bubbles and left in a classic white Rolls Royce.

Wedding Photography: Nate Henderson Photography / Ceremony: Trinity United Methodist Church in Savannah, Georgia / Reception: Savannah Golf Club in Savannah, Georgia / Event Planning: Tricia Windom / Floral Design: Harvey Designs / Wedding Cake: Molly Stone’s / Wedding Dress: James Clifford

After checking out Georgia Aquarium‘s website, I’m totally obsessed with the idea of an aquarium wedding! Just imagine how much fun everyone would have while hanging out in the world’s largest aquarium, sipping on cocktails while watching beluga whales, whale sharks, harbor seals, manta rays and schools of exotic fish swim by!

Georgia Aquarium can host up to 500 of your closest friends and family in its Oceans Ballroom and has tons of flexibility. Plus you’re guaranteed insanely delicious food with exclusive catering by Wolfgang Puck. And now they’re offering a super cool opportunity for everyone that books a wedding between now and December 31st, 2012. Simply book your wedding, and your name, along with your future Mr. or Mrs., will be entered into a drawing to Swim with Gentle Giants!* You’ll get to take a dip in Ocean Voyager, a 6.3 million gallon exhibit home to manta rays, whale sharks and more! I’m pretty sure it doesn’t get any cooler than that! Click here for more info or to book your wedding!

*Winners will be notified by phone or email.  Value of prize is approximately $450.  Georgia Aquarium reserves the right to substitute an appropriate prize of similar value if dates or the program is not available.

It’s hard to imagine that this lovely Savannah ceremony was supposed to be held anywhere but The Jepson Center.  The beautiful details would have, no doubt, looked stunning in any setting but the pops of purple and green really look amazing in the modern space.  The gorgeous details overflowed into the reception creating an elegant, contemporary vibe that has me obsessed!  See everything, planned by First City Events, in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From First City Events… The couple planned to be wed in Telfair Square. Luckily, they decided to move the ceremony inside because we had a late afternoon storm just before the wedding. Roxy & Travis stayed cool and  everything turned out perfect. The Jepson Center was beautiful with Roxy’s green and purple accents i.e. the ceremony arrangements that were vases filled with real apples, blooming branches and  white and purple hydrangeas. During cocktail hour, guests enjoyed the museum including an art exhibit, which featured L.E.D. light art work. They then headed back down to the atrium where the room was transformed with purple linens and tall centerpieces that coordinated with the ceremony pieces. Guests enjoyed an array of food stations while mingling and dancing. Roxy & Travis ended their night with a bubble exit and headed for their “happily ever after.” Best wishes!

Wedding Photography: Shannon Christopher / Wedding Venue: The Jepson Center in Savannah, Georgia / Wedding Planning: First City Events / Floral Design: Harvey Designs / Catering: Creative Catering / Wedding Cake: Two Cakes / Bar: Bull River Beverage Mart (912-897-7690) / Officiant: Rev. Schulte / Ceremony Harp: Leslie Adair / Rentals: In Any Event / Purple Cloths: The Bride / Transportation: Oglethorpe Trolley Tours / Wedding Dress: Allure Bridals / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bill Levkoff / Hair + Makeup: 40 Volume Salon / Nails: LaBelle Nail Salon (912-236-2202) / Accommodations: AVIA Savannah, SpringHill Suites Savannah + Doubletree Savannah / Rehearsal Dinner: 10 Downing

There’s just something so special about getting married at your childhood home…and when fireworks go off just as you make it up to the alter, well, that’s just total and complete specialness. This sweet southern bride kept her day simple and elegant and really kept the focus on the love. Hurst Photo was on hand to capture all the fun and meaningful moments and trust me when I say, there were plenty. See it all right here.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… I am a Georgia peach, southern to the core, and so is my groom. I wanted that to be reflected in our wedding, but I wanted it to be fresh, fun and elegant all at the same time. Friends and family are very important to Tyler and me so our goal was to have a beautiful, special ceremony and a really great celebration of our love for our families and each other. What better place to have a southern wedding centered on families than at my family home on the Ogeechee River in Savannah.

As beautiful as the day was and as perfect as it is to MY eyes, we did have one little snafu. My dad is a generous, loving, fun, crazy kind of guy. As a surprise, he bought fireworks to set off as we were leaving the reception. There was a miscommunication with a wedding guest (who was asked to turn down the water on the fountain when we got to the altar), and he ended up setting off the fireworks right when we got to the altar. We had all of our bridal party there, we were ready to begin the ceremony and BOOM! — about two and a half minutes of fireworks behind the house. It was a truly special moment and is something about the day that I (and 100 other people) will never forget. The pictures are priceless.

My family’s home is what set the mood for the wedding, and it was a beautiful backdrop for our lovely ceremony. Our tent was elegant and our decorations were simple. The favors were small jam jars covered with fabric and a tag saying “Spread the Love.” The flowers added the most to the house, the tables and the cake. The wedding cake’s main decoration were beautiful flowers hand picked by our florist while the groom’s cake was from our alma mater, Georgia Southern University.

The toasts during the reception were also very heart felt and eloquent. My sister, the MOH and Tyler’s best man did a great job but the true star (again) was my dad. His speech was so wonderful I do not think there was a dry eye in the house. He started off by putting on a sideways Georgia Southern hat, sagging his tuxedo pants and saying “I thought I raised her right and then my daughter brings this guy home? What was she thinking?!” Then he discussed how six years later he could not imagine me with any other man.

Wedding Photography: Amanda Hurst of Hurst Photo / Wedding Venue: The Bride’s Family Home in Savannah, Georgia / Floral Design: Roger Peacock of Peacock’s on 37th / Rentals + Wedding Consulting: Erin Fountain of Classic Party Rentals / Food + Service: Bruce Ford of Magnolia Grill Catering / Wedding Cakes: Bakers Pride / Ceremony Harp: Anne Durant / Reception Music: Jeff Brown of All About You Entertainment / Get Away Car: Greg Rolf of Southern Comfort Limousine / Wedding Dress: Maggie Sottero via A Formal Occasion (770-591-5424) / Hair: Susan Renfro / Makeup: Tamra Honea

When the lovely bride to be’s mother found a wedding shot by Docuvitae Photography, they had already hired a different photographer. But the bride took one look at the art Docuvitae produces on a daily basis and called the team, asking them to come all the way across the country to capture her big day. Now, we may be biased, but I’m of the mind that she made the absolute right decision. The elated emotions, the sweet ambiance, the gorgeous South Carolina Inn, and so much more, were all captured in a way no one – no one – but Docuvitae could have done.

Click here for a total image LOVE fest!

Looking back on our wedding, I realize that I was that bride that had never tapped into the well of obsessions over all things bridal that exists within myself. I thought that I would be the most laid back and nonchalant bride ever. Not the case. I cared about every, single, detail and decision made. My mother and I were like two Tasmanian devils whirling around for a year planning this wedding and pouring over wedding images on Style Me Pretty. We loved every minute and thoroughly enjoyed the process as a creative outlet.

Pierce and I both grew up in Savannah, Georgia and both attended the University of Georgia. We started dating the second week of my freshman year of college and have now been together for eight years. I have always envisioned getting married at Palmetto Bluff. My parents have been taking weekend trips there for the past several years and it is the dreamiest place- a real life Pleasantville. Since it is only 30 minutes outside Savannah, it was the perfect semi-destination location and a nice getaway for our guests.

We couldn’t have picked better vendors, some local and others from different parts of the country. Mollie Stone made our cake and is the godmother of one of my closest friends, so I have been eating her pound cake for years. It was vanilla almond flavored and not only delicious, but beautiful. Mr. Boddington made our save-the-dates, invitations, bridesmaids luncheon invites, and thank you notes. Their style is fabulously quirky and I fell in love with their unique fonts and wallpapers. For the décor, I wanted a very natural and understated look to fit the setting. We used a natural linen for the table cloths and a mixture of ranunculus and garden roses for the bouquets, boutonnieres, and table arrangements, mixing in succulents and lavender throughout the ballroom. Our wedding planner at Palmetto Bluff, Kelli Corn, was made of magic. She coordinated all of the details and our requests so effortlessly.

I found my Vera Wang dress at BleuBelle Bridal Salon in Savannah my first round of looking. I loved how beautifully made the dress was and it fit my style perfectly, simple and tailored, but with a twist. When deciding on accessories, I knew that I wanted pieces that I would want to wear again and again. I got my Isabel Marant earrings as a gift the previous Christmas and snagged my Valentino sandals seriously on sale! I have a soft spot in my heart for anything with studs.

As soon as I spotted Docuvitae’s work on Style Me Pretty, I knew that we had to hire them. Our photographer, Eric from Docuvitae, was amazing to work with. Along with digital, we chose to include film to get that grainy, romantic quality that vintage cameras give. It was so cool to see Eric use several different types of vintage cameras throughout the night. He never told us to do anything we wouldn’t normally do ourselves. As a result, every photo is natural and captures a brief but sweet moment that depicts the excitement and love we were all feeling that day.

I started out the day exactly how I wanted, relaxing with my friends and family and doing yoga with my favorite yoga teacher, sister, and new sisters-in-law. The weather was dramatically overcast and windy, making for some beautiful pictures. Our ceremony was held in the Waterside Chapel, overlooking the May River as the sun began to set. Cocktail hour was on the lawn next to the chapel where we passed hors d’oeurves. Some of the favorites were mini crab cakes, beef carpaccio on toast, and smoked salmon mousse on parmesan crisps. We had the reception in the ballroom of The Inn, where we had stations of paella, charcuterie and salads, and beef tenderloin with sweet potato gratin. Not wanting to end the night early, we had a late night DJ party in the wine cellar downstairs in The Inn. This was a major hit with all of our friends!

There is nothing Pierce or I would change about our wedding day. We were in such a beautiful setting and surrounded by all of the people we love. I just wish we could do it all over again!

Photography: Eric Giovon and Ginna Richards of Docuvitae Photography / Ceremony and Reception Venue: The Inn at Palmetto Bluff / Wedding Coordination + Design: Kelli Corn, Wedding Design Studio of The Inn at Palmetto Bluff /  Event Design: Sebrell Smith, Sebrell Smith Designer Events / Harpist: Phyllis Mauney, Hilton Head Entertainment / Choir: Hallelujah Singers / Lighting: Stage Presence Equipment Rentals / Linens: La Tavola Linen / Rentals: Snyder Event Rentals / Bakery: Mollie Stone Bakery / Band: Atlanta Rhythm and Groove / Transportation: Old Towne Trolleys / Stationery: Mr. Boddington Studio / Dress: Vera Wang from BleuBelle Bridal Salon / Shoes: Valentino / Earrings: Isabel Marant / Make-Up: Lauren of Glow MedSpa

Prepare yourself for a moment of “wow.” I am head over heels with the tasteful southern charisma of this wedding. Kelly Sauer truly did an incredible job in capturing the delicate pastel colors and romantic setting of the day. And how about those floral arrangements!? I am oh-so impressed that the bride designed them herself! Stuck with Georgia on your mind? (Me too!) Click here for more.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Kelly Sauer… Anne and Evan met in a near-bachelorette setting, with Anne and her girlfriend as the bachelorettes. Evan, a quintessential Southern gentleman, stood out to Anne immediately, and they began dating. When Evan finally proposed with a gorgeous aquamarine in a vintage setting, Anne said YES. Neither could imagine being with anyone else. She makes him laugh; he made her fall in love — it was the way a love story should be written. Anne, a SCAD graduate who came back to Savannah to work at her alma mater, made all of her florals by hand – bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces. She sewed a hand-embroidered patch (in blue!) into her lace gown and wore her great-great-great grandmother’s necklace on her wedding day — a fourth-generation tradition. She shared a sweet phone call with her grandma in New Jersey (who wasn’t able to attend for health reasons). After a sweet first look with her father (a Southern Weddings idea!), she and her sister met her groom at Reynolds Square in downtown Savannah, just outside of The Olde Pink House. A short and beautiful ceremony later, they moved on to their brunch reception upstairs in The Olde Pink House. Their guests were treated to coffee and sticky buns before the brunch opened with biscuits and jam, muffins, chocolate donuts, fresh fruit, an omelet bar and open refreshments. Anne used old wine boxes and vintage tubs to create an elegant vintage setting for the food. The handmade cake topper, made by Anne’s sister, was used on one of twelve or so small cakes in three different flavors. Spring-colored M&Ms in classic crystal accented the cake table. The ballroom in the Olde Pink House provided the perfect vintage backdrop for dancing, with a balcony getaway for a taste of the gorgeous spring day. Evan’s grandmother, who attended with a perfectly proper Southern straw hat, even broke it down on the dance floor before the reception ended. It was a perfectly beautiful, perfectly Southern wedding — simple, sweet, and so very personal.

Wedding Photographer: Kelly Sauer Ltd. Co. for The Girl in the White Dress / Reception + Catering: The Olde Pink House in Savannah, Georgia (biancasophevents@bellsouth.net) / Floral Design: DIY by the Bride, Anne Howard / Wedding Invitation Design: Kay Wolfersperger / Wedding Cake: Publix / Cake Topper: DIY by the Bride’s Sister / Wedding Dress: Anjolique / Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka / Tuxedo + Men’s Attire: Hugo Boss

Savannah, Georgia just happens to be one of my most favorite places ever, so when I saw this little beauty on the calendar, I pretty much jumped for joy. And how can you blame me? Just look at these gorgeous images from Angela Cox Photography. The Spanish moss, the antique wrought iron fences, gorgeous old doors (yes, doors can be gorgeous!) and pretty little park benches all add up to e-session perfection. Click here for more.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From Angela of Angela Cox Photography… Carli and Jason are from upstate South Carolina but love visiting Savannah, Georgia. They wanted to shoot their engagements there, so we walked around downtown and Forsyth Park.

Photography: Angela Cox Photography / Location: Savannah, Georgia

Every wedding we come across is pretty and incredible in its own way but sometimes we see a celebration that is just the epitome of sweetness.  That is certainly the case with this Savannah beauty that Simply Savannah Events put together.  From the first look to the last dance, the entire day emanates grace and loveliness with perfect, personalized details.  See it all in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… David and I met for the first time at an interview for Bridgestone (for the same job!) in Nashville, Tennessee, in November of 2007. Well, it turns out we both got the job, and we spent the next three months traveling across the country together for work. We became very close friends, but were not “romantically” attracted … or at least I wasn’t! David spent the next couple years in Nashville, while I was transferred to Iowa and then Chicago. We always stayed in contact with each other, but at the beginning of 2010, David started to call a lot more often… During a surprise visit to Chicago in February, David convinced me we should move from “just friends” to dating. After that, we spent almost every other weekend together despite living 500 miles apart. In November, I took a job in Nashville to be closer (and because the thought of another winter up north terrified me!). In April, David proposed while we were in my parents’ living room in Georgia for the Masters. Our wedding day was the happiest day of my life — I got to marry my best friend and enjoy it with all of my amazing friends and family! We look forward to seeing what’s in store for our future as husband and wife!

From Simply Savannah Events… Inside the typewriter there was a note that welcomed the guests to sign a piece of fabric and share their well wishes to the bride and groom. After the wedding, the bride’s grandmother sewed all of the pieces together to make a quilt with their monogram in the middle of it. The favors were recipe mixtures of confetti bean soup, hush puppies and jambalaya. Just as the ceremony was over, all the guests went inside the house and up to the covered patio. All the outside photos were finished, the band began to play and everyone started dancing, then the sky opened up and it started to rain, thunder and lighting! No one seemed to mind though, and the bride and groom smiled and kept dancing! They stayed at one of the Savannah Villas on Broughton Street and enjoyed the St. Patty’s Day Parade the day after the wedding! They wanted their wedding to be on St. Patty’s Day weekend so that their friends and family could enjoy one of the BIGGEST parades in the nation. Their villa was right on the parade route. Savannah sure knows how to put on a big St. Patty’s Day!

Wedding Photography: Shannon Christopher / Wedding Venue: The Mackey House in Savannah, Georgia / Floral Design: Garden on the Square + Jackie Brooks, A Family Friend / Event Design + Planning: Simply Savannah Events / Officiant: Jane Bender, The Groom’s Aunt / Low Country Boil: Buckin’ Hamm Catering / Cake + Cupcakes: Cissy Bates, A Bridesmaid / Bartenders: BarStars Bartending / Wedding Invitations: DIY / Band: The Vistas / Rehearsal Dinner + Accommodations: Savannah Villas (Broughton Street Villa) / Rehearsal Dinner Catering: Thrive Cafe

This couple’s daring decision to hold their wedding in a city that neither had visited before certainly paid off.  When you’re in a city like Savannah romance and magic is bound to occur and that was certainly the case with this charming, Southern soiree shot by Paperlily Photography.  Making it even sweeter is the glowing bride and her adorable baby bump that both look so amazing in her BCBG dress!  See all the details in the full gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… I met Brendan on September 20, 2008. It was the end of my time in San Diego, pursuing my Master’s degree, and we were set up on a blind date by the casting director of the theatre where we were both working. It was a formal event, and even though I had said many times that I would never date an actor again after the failures prior to meeting him, there was nothing I could do to prevent the head-over-heels effect that his sense of humor and bone-deep kindness had on me.

We had been living in Brooklyn for a little over a year when he surprised me one night by kneeling in front of our couch, and proposing with a stunning, unique ring that he had secretly designed and had made in my size. It was a dream come true. Our conversations had run back and forth on the topic of marriage since the beginning of our relationship, so as soon as we were engaged — literally that night! — we started planning. We knew we wanted to get married in Savannah, though neither of us had been there before, and got online to find the perfect weekend between spring rains and killer heat. Once we’d decided on April, 30, I set about researching the various bed & breakfasts in the city. Amazingly, Kehoe House, situated on Columbia Square, had a 360 degree video tour of the event space at the top of the building. It was perfect, with vaulted wood ceilings, wrought-iron chandeliers, exposed brick, and tons of Southern charm. And did I mention an eerie sense of its own history? We really loved the quirkiness underlying the city’s rich history. Since we were getting married in a public square, the rules were really strict about not being able to hang anything, or set any furniture on the grass. I found the rug that we stood on in an online sample sale on RueLaLa, and now it covers the floor in our living room. Little things like that really made the day so special. I think my favorite detail was at the reception, where we hung mason jars with thin rope from the eaves holding Spanish moss and electric tea lights in them. It gave the room an ethereal quality, and we were able to reuse them at another reception held several weeks later in my home town. 

Even though I went shopping two weeks after we got engaged, found and ordered my dress, the last thing I did (ten days before my big day!) was find a new wedding dress. I’d been holding out hope that my original choice would be alterable to cover my five-month pregnant belly, but no such luck. It was fortuitous that I was in NYC, home of more wedding dresses than probably anywhere on earth. I wanted something that wouldn’t cost an arm and a leg, and that would show off my bump. Enter BCBG on the Upper East Side, where Janelle rocked my world by helping me (on my lunch hour!) try on every wedding dress in the store before finding the perfect choice. For a mere $268.00, I walked down the aisle in a dress that was soooo comfortable, sexy, classy, and played up all of my baby-belly curves. I couldn’t imagine having worn the other dress.

Wedding Photography: Paperlily Photography / Wedding Venue: The Kehoe House in Savannah, Georgia / Event Design + Planning: Posh Petals and Pearls / Wedding Invitations + Save-the-Dates: DIY / Catering: Cha Bella / Ceremony Seat Covers: DIY by the Bride’s Mother, Aunt + Grandmother / Officiant: The Bride’s Uncle / Wedding Dress: BCBG

A sweet Savannah elopement just might be the greatest idea of all time and this intimate love fest by Brittany Sweat Photography is about as fabulous as it gets.  From the sophisticated black and white gown to the sweet sunflower touches to the intimate Whitefield Chapel ceremony, there isn’t a single moment that isn’t filled with love, laughter and happiness.  And how amazing is that?!?  Click here for more.

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From Brittany Sweat Photography… This was an intimate elopement in Savannah, Georgia. It was so romantic! The couple gave me so much time with them — we were able to go all around the city of Savannah for photographs! “V” is so sweet to Ashley. He is such a gentleman, and I am so lucky to have gotten to know them.

Wedding Photography: Brittany Sweat Photography / Wedding Ceremony: Whitefield Chapel at the Bethesda School for Boys in Savannah, Georgia / Wedding Reception: Vic’s on the River in Savannah, Georgia / Wedding Dress: Vera Wang

With a picture perfect Forsyth Park ceremony and a stunning reception held at the amazing Roundhouse Railroad Museum, it just doesn’t get any prettier than this dazzling Savannah affair captured by Geoff L Johnson.  Trust me – the sweet DIY details, sunny yellow hues and fabulous stylings of Morgan Gallo Events will put a smile on your face like you have never seen.  And that gorgeous brooch bouquet?!?  Simply. Amazing.  Don’t miss a minute of lovely – click here for more.

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From Morgan of Morgan Gallo Events… Johanna and Courtney were married October 22, 2011, in Forsyth Square on one of Savannah’s nicest fall days. They loved the idea of bringing the essences of fall without being to cliche, and we were able to incorporate them through her flowers, colors and details. Johanna was a very hands-on bride and loved DIY projects. She made the fabulous fabric ceremony programs, menu cards, table numbers, collected fabric and different-colored bottles so we could use them throughout the reception. She also made the most impressive bridal brooch bouquet ever! The brooches were those that she collected from loved ones, family and friends! Her adorable blue bird cake toppers from Etsy were the perfect finish to her wedding cake, and we tied it into the look of the wedding by adding a few sunflowers sporadically placed on a few tiers. They gave mini jars of Savannah Bee honey to each of the guests as favors and used the remainder of their fabric to cover the lids! After enjoying local fare, hours of dancing, sharing laughs and memories of the happy couple, guests lined up with sparklers to send them and their bridal party on their way for a night out on the town!

From the Bride… Walking down the aisle is one of the most breathtaking moments of your life. I remember sitting in the carriage, leaning over saying “I see him! I see Courtney! Can we go now? ” and then walking down the aisle. I can feel everyone looking at me and remember thinking “Okay, just don’t get your heel stuck in the cobblestone. For once in your life, try to be graceful.” We had rehearsed walking slowly, but then I saw him smiling back at me, and all of these people who love us smiling back at me, and I think I started walking pretty fast! He seems to agree — I just yelled to him, “Babe, what was your favorite moment of our wedding day?” He said, “I really liked watching you walk down the aisle.”

My brooch bouquet was definitely a special detail. It meant so much to me to not only carry a bouquet that was so one of a kind, but also one that had gifts and heirlooms from all the women in my life. The venue itself was also really special to us. Courtney was extremely close to his grandfather, who passed away right around the time we started dating. We had been having so much trouble finding a venue that we both loved, and then we stopped by the Railroad Museum and saw this old Norfolk and Western railcar, which was the line his granddad worked on. It seemed like it was just meant to be.

Wedding Photography: Geoff L Johnson / Wedding Ceremony: Forsyth Park in Savannah, Georgia / Wedding Reception: Roundhouse Railroad Museum in Savannah, Georgia / Wedding Planning + Design: Morgan Gallo Events / Floral Design: Kiwi Fleur / Catering: Cha-Bella / Wedding Cake: Addy B’s Cakes / Rentals: Beachview Event Rentals and Design / Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Alfred Sung / Brooch Bouquet, Programs, Menus + Table Cards: DIY by the Bride / Favors: Savannah Bee Honey

Every day I find a new reason to fall head over heels for the Peach State – and today’s darling Savannah affair planned by Posh, Petals & Pearls most definitely ranks at the VERY top of my list.  The gorgeous tree-filled ceremony and brilliant images by Azelle Photography are enough to make any Georgia lover completely giddy – and when you cap it all off with a serious celebration at the amazing Tybee Island Wedding Chapel, you KNOW we’re in for one awesome day in the gallery.  Join me there for more.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the Bride… The first time I stepped foot in Savannah, Georgia, I fell in love with the city. From the rich history and lovely architecture to the large live oak trees everywhere you turn, what was there not to love. It is one of the most romantic places I have ever been. Dustin and I wanted to have a destination wedding, but we were having trouble deciding on where we wanted to go. One day while talking, he suggested that we go to Savannah for our wedding. He had never been to Savannah himself and had only listened to the countless stories about my travels there. I couldn’t believe I hadn’t thought of that first. It was perfect! Savannah would be close enough that our family and friends could attend, but it was still far enough away that it would be an adventure for them as well. I knew it would be stressful trying to organize a wedding from eight hours away. The first thing I did was look for someone in Savannah to help me with the planning. Little did I know, the first decision I made would be the best one. I found Tara and Ashley of Posh Petals and Pearls. They organized the whole event from start to finish. All I had to do is tell them my budget and what I wanted, and they took care of the rest. To my delight, it wasn’t stressful at all.

Our wedding day was perfect. The sun was shining through the limbs of the live oak trees as we were married on Lafayette Square. The occasional breeze would gracefully blow the Spanish moss dripping from the tree limbs. A to Zinnias cheerful floral creations looked so beautiful in the natural setting of the park, and I absolutely loved my bridal bouquet. It was very special to us both. I ordered a memorial charm from Etsy to be placed in it for Dustin’s mother. This was a very sweet reminder of her and a wonderful keepsake. Kristin from New Arts Ensembles played the harp masterfully as the guest arrived and were seated. Dustin and I had decided to take pictures before the wedding ceremony so that we could enjoy more time with our family and friends. Jason and Veta from Azelle Photography worked wonders with us, and it shows. Their kindness and relaxed approach was very calming, and through their artistic eye, they captured the feeling of our day perfectly. After the wedding ceremony, Dustin and I, along with our guests, boarded a stately trolley that was provided by Old Savannah Tours. We really enjoyed the trolley ride. This gave us a great opportunity to thank everyone for coming. The trolley ride came to an end at the gorgeous Tybee Island Wedding Chapel for the reception. After our first dance, we were treated to some of the best low-country food I have ever had, made by Cape Creations. They really did a great job. Everyone just kept bragging on how good the food was. After the reception was over, the trolley took us back into town as we witnessed the most spectacular sunset over the marsh. I really could not believe how smoothly everything flowed and how relaxed Dustin and I both were throughout the day. We truly enjoyed every minute of our special day.

Wedding Photography: Jason + Veta of Azelle Photography / Wedding Ceremony: Lafayette Square in Savannah, Georgia / Wedding Reception: Tybee Wedding Chapel in Tybee Island, Georgia / Wedding Planning: Tara + Ashley of Posh, Petals & Pearls / Floral Design: A to Zinnias / Ceremony Music: Kristin of New Arts Ensemble / Officiant: Rev. Steven Schulte / Catering: Cape Creations Catering / Rentals: Savannah Special Events by Ranco / Guest Transportation: Old Savannah Tours / Bridal Preparations Site: Cathedral Inn / Hair: Hot Headz Salon (912-335-2773) / Makeup: Face to Face Makeup

We fell head.over.heels for this gorgeous duo’s Savannah nuptials, so it’s no surprise that we love their “Day Before” session JUST AS MUCH.  Yep, it’s a well-known fact that we simply ADORE two people in love… and these two cuties are positively GLOWING.  From the sweet looks shared in Chippewa Square to the good times had at Six Pence Pub (Hello Guinness!), there’s not a single brilliant image captured by Cheryl Joy Miner Photography that won’t leave you feeling all warm and St. Patty’s Day cozy.  See them all here.

Click here for the FULL engagement session!

From Cheryl of Cheryl Joy Miner Photography… We actually did a “day before” session instead of a typical engagement session because Dan and Erin live out of state. It was SO much fun to see them both in the midst of all their wedding planning coming together. They were giddy with excitement. We visited Chippewa Square, where the two were engaged. It’s also the square from Forrest Gump — which was a complete coincidence. Dan had a different square in mind, but the day he proposed, Erin’s feet were killing her and she insisted on stopping on that very bench. Talking that day, it was evident that Dan is very proud of his Irish heritage. We decided to visit the Six Pence Pub and sit down for a nice glass of Guinness. Apparently, Erin always writes their initials and hearts in their Guinness. They are just too cute.

Photography: Cheryl Joy Miner Photography / Location: Savannah, Georgia

There’s nothing quite like a wedding crafted to perfectly fit a couple. It always makes for the happiest, most gorgeous of affairs. We liken it to a wonderful dinner party built just for you and your love. And in this case, Georgia-fied in the prettiest of Savannah ways with the help of First City Events and Garden on the Square. This gem has everything from wildly beautiful flowers to nautical striped linens and the cutest lacy TOM’S, making this is a Southern charmer through and through. Ashley Hoskins Photography captured way too many lovely images to squeeze into one post so we have them all sitting pretty in the gallery for you to pore over. Enjoy!

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From Victoria of First City Events… Kellye and Bram’s wedding involved so many wonderful details. From corn hole on the side of the garden to lemonade in mason jars, this wedding felt like an elegant and intimate back yard wedding. The ceremony décor featured refurbished church pews for the parents of the bride and groom to enjoy, along with blue and white programs that matched the handmade table runners at the reception. The unique details didn’t stop there, with café lights strung from the tent, a boat as the bar, chalk board signs and canned honey for their guest favors. Kellye and Bram enjoyed a live band as they danced the night away with their friends and family, then ended the evening with and exit donning their favorite Tennessee Vols pom-poms and pendants. It was truly a wedding made for them!

Wedding Photography: Ashley Hoskins Photography / Ceremony: Monterey Square in Savannah, Georgia / Reception: Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum in Savannah, Georgia / Event Coordination: Victoria, Katy + Bonnie of First City Events / Floral Design: Garden on the Square / Catering: Chef Nick Mueller & Company / Wedding Cake: Kerry O’Connor Cake Design (912-236-0016) / Ceremony Music: New Arts Ensembles / Reception Music: Doctor Doctor / Corn Hole Game, Mason Jars + Wedding Details: The Bride / Rentals: Savannah Special Events by Ranco / Lighting: Stage Front Presentation Systems / Transportation: Old Town Trolley Tours / Getaway Transportation: Savannah Pedicab / Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier / Bride’s Shoes: TOMS / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Various Navy Blue Dresses / Hair + Makeup: B Street Salon / Men’s Ties: Brooks Brothers

I love reading about each of our couple’s creative process and planning journey.  It’s so inspirational to see how they took their initial vision and brought it to life with their own unique style.  This bride took her traditional wedding and mixed it up a bit with fun, feather-filled arrangements by Urban Poppy to create a lovely, natural and elegant affair.  Greg Ceo filled our full gallery with so many more details so head over there to see it all!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

And not one but two videos from Derek Scearce!

From the Bride… As soon as the words “Yes, of course, Yes, Yes!” came out of my mouth, I knew exactly where we were going to get married: Savannah, Georgia. I had no idea where the ceremony or reception would be. But I definitely knew Savannah was the place. Darren and I took our first out of town trip down to Savannah. It is a place with romance and beauty. The venues were chosen when Darren and I went to Savannah for a weekend. We got there late at night and decided to take a stroll around the Historic District of Savannah. Savannah is blessed with 22 lush green squares that are surrounded by treasures of historic architecture. As we arrived at each square, we took in the beauty each one had to offer. Telfair Square was the square that literally mesmerized me that night. It wasn’t just the beauty, but the peaceful, quiet, serene feeling that came over me as we entered the square that put me in awe. However, the “this is the place” moment happened as I continued through the square and saw the softly spotlighted Jepson Center for the Arts. It really is a modern marvel of architecture amidst two of the oldest and timeless historical buildings in Savannah.  That image, modern architecture next to historical/traditional architecture, captured my inspiration for our wedding, “traditional with a touch of modern.” Oh, and also I forgot to mention something my cute husband did when we were walking through Telfair Square. He pulled me near to him, kissed me and said, “This is the place, I can picture us getting married right here.” Then he kissed me again. How could it not be the place after that! 

The style of our wedding was clear in my mind.  I could see the colors and knew the feeling I wanted to create; therefore, I planned the wedding myself.  However, for my sanity’s sake and wanting to be stress-free the week of the wedding, I hired a wedding coordinator, Jeannie of Brilliantly Designed Events. She was crucial, and I could not have been happier with her services. Planning an out of town wedding is tricky. Since I live in Atlanta, a lot of my planning was done online. So glad I live in the 21st Century — phew! I came across Urban Poppy while browsing … and browsing … and browsing florists in Savannah. Anissa’s website/portfolio/blog kept my attention for about an hour (to say the least). She creates arrangements that are striking and it amazes me how she thinks to group the various flowers/greenery together that you don’t normally see. After a phone conversation with Anissa, I scheduled a time to meet with her. I told her I wanted fall colors, burnt oranges, reds, deep yellows, and most importantly, pheasant feathers. With the ceremony outside, I wanted some natural elements and textures.  Calla lilies and orchids were the main flowers I wanted.  She did her magic and worked in other complimenting flowers perfectly.

My largest DIY project was painting the pedestals that held the flower arrangements for the wedding ceremony. I bought plaster columns from Garden Ridge. I started by applying a light brown paint as the base paint. I layered on a crackle texture application. I followed the crackle texture with a darker brown matte paint. I detailed the fluted columns with a black stain along the edges to try and create dimension. I ultimately wanted the columns to look somewhat worn. To create the worn look I rubbed dirt (Yes, dirt!) on various areas. The final touch was adding moss to the base and up the column slightly. I applied the moss with a spray adhesive. Anissa with Urban Poppy actually liked these so much, she bought them from me!

Wedding Photography: Greg Ceo / Ceremony: Telfair Square in Savannah, Georgia / Reception: Jepson Center for the Arts in Savannah, Georgia / Floral Design: Urban Poppy / Event Planning: Jeannie Sims of Brillantly Designed Events / Wedding Cinematography: Derek Scearce / Wedding Cake: Michelle Still of Delectable Designs / Catering: Paul Kennedy Catering / Drinks: Bull River Beverage (912-897-7690) / Rentals: Savannah Special Events by Ranco / Band: Terry Lee and the GTs / Ceremony Musicians: New Arts Ensembles / Exit Pedicab: Savannah PediCab / Wedding Dress: Pronovias “Feria” / Bride’s Veil: The Groom’s Mother + Sister / Bride’s Shoes: Nina / Flower Girl Baskets + Ceremony Flower Columns: DIY / Ring Bearer Pillow: The Groom’s Mother / Programs: The Bride’s Sister

There aren’t many things more fabulous than when a couple puts their own spin and personalized stamp on the design of their wedding.  That is what we love so much about this Savannah soiree by Jenny Evelyn Photography.  They took a classic style, that was already full of that fantastic Southern charm we all love so much, and added so many playful, heart-felt details.  Click here to see it all!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Jenny of Jenny Evelyn Photography… Ashlee and Scott’s fabulous Savannah wedding featured two gorgeous gowns, two vintage cars, three fantastic locations and so many adorable details!  I loved the sentimental and personal details, like Ashlee’s grandfather’s Air Force pin that she used to pin her bouquet and the pill bottles filled with pralines that this pharmacist couple gave to their guests. The three locations truly defined this couple’s big day. They had a “first look” in Savannah’s iconic Forsyth Park, filled with beautiful trees and dripping in Southern Spanish moss. Then they went on to the ceremony at one of Savannah’s oldest chapels, Whitefield Chapel at Bethesda School for Boys. Finally, they left their ceremony in style in a vintage Rolls Royce and headed to their reception at The Mansion on Forsyth Park. This beautiful venue is filled with fabulous chandeliers and was the perfect location for the bride, the groom and their guests to dance the night away. This couple also had some great DIY projects. The mother of the bride made the bridesmaid’s bouquets, the groomsmen’s boutonnieres and the groom’s cake — a tribute to their alma mater, The University of Georgia. They also created tiny flags with the inscription “And they lived. . . Happily ever after.” The guests waved the tiny flags as the couple rode away in their classic Chevy 442. 

Wedding Photography: Jenny Evelyn Photography / Ceremony: Whitefield Chapel at Bethesda School for Boys / Reception: Mansion on Forsyth Park / Flowers: Chuck Hanes / Bridesmaids’ Bouquets, Groomsmen’s Boutonnieres + Groom’s Cake: The Mother of the Bride / Mini Flags: DIY / Wedding Invitations: Open House Charleston + Embossed Graphics / Other Paper Accessories + Decorations: The Mother of the Bride /  Wedding Dress: Pronovias / Shoes: Stuart Weitzman + Pour la Victoire / Earrings: Diana Warner via Melissa Tecklenburg of Open House Charleston / Silk Photo Album: Melissa Tecklenburg of Open House Charleston