Savannah Weddings Magazine - Fall/Winter 2017-2018 by Savannah Magazine

AY, B I G S T Y L D G E: BI

REAL SAVANNAH WEDDINGS

DREAM DRESSES • DAZZLING VENUES Local welcome bag giveaway – treat your guests to the best!

Apt B Photography

WINNER OF THE KNOT’S BEST OF WEDDINGS HALL OF FAME The Tybee Island Wedding Chapel and Grand Ballroom is situated 18 miles from historic downtown Savannah, Georgia. Nestled on Tybee Island’s tidewater creek, the venue boasts over 7,000 square feet of event space. The venue features an ornate Sanctuary, Grand Ballroom, Bridal Suite, Groom’s Quarters, Cocktail Lounge, 2 Catering Kitchens, and an outdoor patio that overlooks the island’s tidewater creek. Chapel clients also have access to event amenities including a state-of-the art audio-visual system, black Chiavari chairs and special event tables.

Best of Weddings 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012 with The Knot.com & Bride’s Choice Award 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012 with Weddingwire.com 1114 US Hwy 80-PO Box 1576, Tybee Island, Georgia 31328 • 912.786.9099 or 888.988.9233 • tybeechapel@aol.com

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AWARD WINNING FLORAL DESIGNERS Floral design expert Maria Angie Kato works with her talented design team/consultants to create custom floral designs for weddings, parties and events. We specialize in blending cultures and traditions from around the world, ensuring the most exceptional and stylish designs imaginable. Call or email to set up an appointment to visit our showroom located in historic downtown Savannah.

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table of contents

JUSTIN BROWN

Fall/Winter 2017-18 Vol. 10, No. 2

CALLIE BEALE

MACKENSEY ALEXANDER

REAL WEDDINGS 38 Ring in the New

Cecilia Russo Bob Turner, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and Benedictine Military School

42 Bringing the Outdoors in Shannon Snow Soho South Café

Britt Spencer,

46 A Wintry Wedding at a Stately Museum

Jordan Real Jared Linson, Georgia State Railroad Museum

58 Making History in a Famed Square

Jessica McElroy Kyle Klingensmith, Washington Square and Charles Morris Center

62 Shimmer and Glow at the Yacht Club

Chamberlain Iocovozzi Stephen Gambrell, Savannah Yacht Club

50 A Day to Remember, Times Two

66 Elegant Ease in a Bucolic Setting

54 Big Love, Big Day, Big Party

70 Downhome Charm at a Farm Wedding

Brittany Sullivan Emeka Iwuagwu, The DeSoto and Jepson Center for the Arts

Meg Massey Eric Bayliss, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and The DeSoto

Haley Carpenter Shae Hudson, Woodlawn Plantation

Ashley Latimer Red Gate Farms

Ken Jacobsen,

74 Wonderland at Wormsloe

Caitlin Dutton Joshua Reaver, Wormsloe Historic Site and Vic’s on the River

On the Cover Local couple Meg Massey and Eric Bayliss on the steps of Cathedral of St. John the Baptist with just a few of their 400 guests. Photography: Justin Brown, The Happy Bloom Event designer and florals: Sebrell Smith Designer Events Gown and veil: Casablanca Bridal Bridesmaids’ dresses: Alfred Angelo Hair and makeup: Beyond Beautiful By Heather Groom and groomsmen attire: Men’s Wearhouse

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

table of contents

DEPARTMENTS 21 Decisions, Decisions

Recent Savannah brides and their stylists share how they did the smaller (but still super important!) things right, from decor to hair and makeup.

26 Meet the Designer

K AT I E M C G E E

SARAH BUCK

Andrea Gray Harper shares her wedding favorites, inspirations and tricks of the trade.

29 The Making of a Wedding Gown

Bride Erin Bacon had her dream look custom designed. We tagged along for the process.

32 9 Questions for Corie and Mark Thomas

The owners of Magnolia Grill Catering talk breakfast for dinner, why a crudité is just wrong, and their dessert that comes with its own soundtrack.

TERESA EARNEST

34 Win It All!

Here’s your chance to nab 10 custom welcome bags, each stuffed with signature Savannah products.

78 A Warm Reception

All the stats on area wedding sites.

88 Sacred Spaces

When it comes to saying your vows, this coastal city boasts a host of ceremony locations.

94 Ever After

78 10 savannah weddings

94 fall/winter 2017-18

TERESA EARNEST

ANNA BENTON

Celebrate your big day in style with the chicest “something blue” in town.

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DELIGHT

S IN D ETAI L S

publisher

Anita Hagin 912.652.0293

editor-in-chief

Emily Testa 912.652.0290

art director

Britt Scott 912.652.0390

features editor editor for engagement graphic designers

Sarah Taylor Asquith 912.652.0297 Maggie Harney 912.652.0315 Josh Summitt 912.525.0292 Mimi Mangrum Numer 912.652.0743

contributing writers and editors contributing photographers

Amy Paige Condon, Betty Darby, Cassandra Handley, Monica James Mackensey Alexander, Callie Beale, Anna Benton, Billie Board, Justin Brown, Sara Buck, Chia and Hon Chong, Brittani Croft, Dana Cubbage, Lisa Davis, Teresa Earnest, Angela Hopper, Izzy Hudgins, Katie Joyner, Jade and Matthew McCully, Katie McGee, Wendy Norman, Justin Wojtczak

* * * director of advertising

Jane Townsend 912.652.0294 Jill Strauss 912.652.0291

advertising account manager

Lane Pelliccione 912.652.0486

advertising account executives

Morgan Crolley 912.652.0472

advertising account manager TO

G RA PH Y Y B

JADE + M AT T H E W

Brittany Ward 912.652.0490 advertising assistant

TA KE PIC

TU RE

address

(mailing)

Come see why this is Savannah’s best kept secret ... SPECIALIZING IN THE UNIQUE & UNEXPECTED

912.238.3355 101 W. Taylor Street • Savannah, Georgia 31401 Find us on Facebook

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customer service/issue requests

Anne Robin 912.652.0287

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1375 Chatham Parkway Savannah, Georgia 31405 P.O. Box 1088 Savannah, Georgia 31402 savannahweddingsmag.com 912.652.0423

A Publication of the Magazine Division of Morris Publishing Group, LLC Savannah Weddings magazine is published semi-annually by Southeastern Newspapers Company, LLC doing business as Savannah magazine, 1375 Chatham Parkway, Savannah, Georgia 31405. The cover and contents are fully protected and may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Savannah magazine. We are not responsible for loss of unsolicited inquiries, manuscripts, photographs, transparencies or other materials. They will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage. Address letters and editorial contributions to Savannah Weddings magazine, P.O. Box 1088, Savannah, GA 31402. Copyright © 2008-2017 by Southeastern Newspapers Company, LLC. All rights reserved. Savannah magazine and Savannah Weddings magazine are trademarks owned by Southeastern Newspapers Company, LLC.

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Please email your ideas and press releases to weddings@savannahmagazine.com. We encourage writers to submit queries and manuscripts for consideration via email. Submissions should include samples of previously published work and a brief description of the idea.

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For information about how to promote your products or services in Savannah Weddings, call 912.652.0294 or send an email to jane.townsend@savannahmagazine.com.

Mission Statement

Savannah Weddings magazine inspires, informs and empowers the savvy bride with an elegant, contemporary vision of chic soirees in the coastal South. Savannah Weddings delivers the refreshing inside scoop on the local experts, natural beauty, historic architecture and soulful culture that defines Savannah and the nearby coast as a top wedding destination worldwide.

A Fabulous Favor

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There’s no place like Savannah—that’s why there’s nothing like Savannah magazine. To reserve the next issue for your welcome bags or parting favors, visit shopsavannahmagazine.com or call 912.652.0293. fall/winter 2017-18

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from us Jill Strauss, advertising account manager OCTOBER 30, 1994: SAVANNAH

In a Flash

You planned for what felt like forever, and just like that, it’s history. Then it becomes all about the photos, the stories and the memories. Here, we share a few of ours.

“We had a very small wedding party—my three sister-in-laws and my lifelong best friend as matron of honor. Two out of the four were pregnant at the time and those two children are now 22 and very important to me to this day!”

Mimi Mangrum Numer, graphic designer OCTOBER 16, 2010: BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA “First we had a brunch in my mom’s backyard, then we got married in the church my grandparents helped start, and ended with a party that showed our guests just how cool the South can be.”

Lane Pelliccione, advertising account manager MAY 21, 2016: SAVANNAH

Anita Hagin, publisher SEPT. 20, 2003: SAVANNAH “Back then, I was enamored with the corsetlaced backs of Maggie Sottero gowns—so that was a must. Looking back, I didn’t need the cathedral-length veil. As soon as the ceremony ended, I took it off for photos.”

“My husband Sean is the drummer for Turtle Folk, and they played at our wedding. That morning, Sean finished writing a song called ‘Beautiful Girl.’ He sang it to me for the first time in front of all our guests.”

Sarah Taylor Asquith, features editor SEPTEMBER 24, 2011: MONTAUK, NEW YORK “We walked down the dunes together and my dad married us on the beach. When the ceremony ended, we played ‘Let the Good Times Roll’ by The Cars and our friends popped bottles of Champagne.”

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Brittany Ward, advertising account executive MAY 16, 2015: BLAIRSVILLE, GEORGIA “We got married on a 20-acre organic farm in the mountains— there were 15 cabins and a huge farmhouse on the property. When we first saw it, we instantly knew it was the place for us.”

contributors

JUSTIN BROWN Photographer Cover image and “Big Love, Big Day, Big Party,” page 54

“You can pose and direct until the sun goes down but ultimately, a happy couple laughing and smiling with their friends and family will always produce beautiful photos. Guaranteed.”

MACKENSEY ALEXANDER Photographer “Bringing the Outdoors In,” page 42

“Shannon and Britt’s wedding was by far one of the coolest that I’ve ever photographed. My favorite moment was when they performed a satirical choreographed dance to ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’ as their first dance. I love it when couples remember that weddings are all about having fun.”

CASSANDRA HANDLEY

MONICA JAMES

Writer “Shimmer and Glow at the Yacht Club,” page 62

Writer “Downhome Charm at a Farm Wedding,” page 70

“Each couple I interviewed was so different in their tastes and preferences, and the real joy was seeing how they parlayed them into their wedding day musthaves—like EDM music and glitter for Stephen and Chamberlain!”

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“When interviewing Ashley Latimer, I learned that dolphins are even more magical than I thought. And if you’re really lucky, they’ll even help you get engaged!”

WWW.GEORGIASOUTHERN.EDU/GARDEN (912) 478 - 1149 1505 BLAND AVENUE | STATESBORO | GA [image]

izzy hudgins photography

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Something New

Decisions, Decisions So you’ve booked the venue and bought your dress. Now it’s all about the smaller (but still super important!) things, from decor and bridal party gifts to hair and makeup. Here, a few recent Savannah brides and their stylists share how they got it right.

Hair and Makeup “I knew I wanted a loose and romantic style with some type of interesting element, which came from the hairpins. The pins looked like flowers with little pearls at the center that matched my earrings and dress. As for my makeup, I didn’t want anything too dramatic that might make me look like a totally different person. Other than a little heavier eye makeup and some individual false lashes, my look was more or less the same as for a nice date.” — Rachel Olivia Mitchell, who married Jack Peter Kimber on December 14, 2016 in Forsyth Park

L I S A D AV I S

Hair and makeup by Salon Aqua; dress from Melissa Sweet; hairpins from Etsy.com; family heirloom earrings To see more from this wedding, go to weddings.savannahmagazine.com

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

something new

IZZY HUDGINS

Bridesmaid Gifts “Our wedding was very colorful, so when I saw the robes with the bright red and pink flowers, they fit right in with the vibe we were going for. I also knew that matching robes would make a great photo—I actually have one of the shots hanging over my makeup table at home.” — Amanda Jones, who married Brian Walker on March 4, 2017 at the Savannah Yacht Club Robes from Silk and More, $19 each at Etsy.com To see more from this wedding, go to weddings.savannahmagazine.com

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Groom’s Cake “The donut tower was a surprise for my husband. Donuts are his favorite sweet treat, and Baker’s Pride makes our favorite. They also did our layered wedding cake so it was a one-stop shop. I couldn’t imagine a better alternative to the traditional groom’s cake!” — Chelsea Elrod, who married Jason Hendrix on September 17, 2016 at Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

ANNA BENTON

Donuts from Baker’s Pride Bakery, starting at $12.75 per dozen; 840 E. DeRenne Ave., 912-355-1155 To see more from this wedding, go to weddings.savannahmagazine.com

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

something new

GET THE LOOK

J A D E A N D M A T T H E W M C C U L LY

Tablescapes

“Our goal for this look was to combine a classic preppy feel with coastal decor to match the marshfront setting,” says Posh Petals and Pearls’ Tara Skinner of the setting she created for Lauren Hughes and Ryan Perry’s reception, held on September 17, 2016 at Oldfield River Club in Okatie, South Carolina. The Chicago-based couple incorporated the Southern theme into their entire wedding, particularly the seafaring tablescapes. “I’m inspired by the natural beauty of the Lowcountry and wanted to bring those elements into our special day,” says Lauren. “All of our guests left our wedding with a new appreciation for the area’s beauty and the magic.” Wedding design by Posh Petals and Pearls To see more from this wedding, go to weddings.savannahmagazine.com

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Striped cabana fabric, $30 a yard at Sherry’s Honey Pot Fabrics, 7901 Waters Ave., 912-777-4532 Assorted coral, starting at $165 at Clutter Furnishings and Interiors, 912-354-7556, 714 Mall Blvd., cluttersav.com Mercury glass votive holders, $13 at Nadeau, 5525 Abercorn St., 912-355-5944, furniturewithasoul.com Driftwood pillar candle holders, $42.95 at Pier 1, 5500 Abercorn St. #1, 912-352-3854, pier1.com

Flowers “I wanted a soft spring palette of blushes, golds and rose-gold colors. Amy Harvey did an incredible job making my bouquet classic and elegant, and added a personal touch by wrapping my great-grandmother’s handkerchief around the stems.” — Lindsey Knight, who married Will O’Shaughnessey on March 25, 2017 at First Presbyterian Church

BRITT CROFT

Floral design by Amy Harvey, Harvey Designs To see more from this wedding, go to weddings.savannahmagazine.com

STOCK FLOWERS

QUICKSAND ROSES

ASTILBES RANUNCULUS

ITALIAN RUSCUS

MOTHER OF PEARL ROSES

WHITE O’HARA GARDEN ROSES

BLUSH SPRAY ROSES

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

something new INSPIRATIONS Design icon: Textile designer William Morris said, “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” That’s basically how I feel about weddings. Instagram feed: Janelle Nicole Wylie’s @lavendersflowers is the stuff of dreams. Celebrity wedding moment: I’ll never forget Gwen Stefani’s pink dip-dyed Christian Dior dress. Latest trend: Using tropical flowers and plants is so modern and striking. Move over, rustic and blush-toned barn weddings!

FAVORITES Color palette: Right now I’m loving dark and light blues paired with gold and mauve or taupe. Flowers: Garden roses and peonies, and a little trailing vine action in bouquets. Cake: I love when one tier on a simple cake is a little different—maybe with gold flecks or made to look like marble. Signature cocktail: A Paloma is super pretty and really great for our warm weather. First dance song: “Here I Am” by UB40. Special touch: Grandmothers as flower girls.

IN THE STUDIO

Meet the Designer

Andrea Gray Harper By Sarah Taylor Asquith | Photography by Katie McGee AS A FULL-SERVICE wedding designer and planner, Andrea Gray Harper works with clients on everything from the minutia (hand-tying ribbons around invitation suites) to the massive (creating and installing a floral arch backdrop). That said, she books no more than four weddings a year. “I’m always in the zone, almost to a fault,” says Harper, who launched her company, Gray Harper Event Maker, in 2010. “I’ll be out with my family on the weekend and see something that sparks an idea—I can’t stop thinking about my couples.”

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Design philosophy: Wellcrafted events should feel effortless. Go-to local sources: The Paris Market for styling props, Kendra Scott for gifts for my sweet brides and bridesmaids, Browns and Hounds Flower Farm (in Pineland, South Carolina) for some of my flowers. Trick of the trade: Quick Dip—it’s like an energy shot for flowers. Motto: “We’ll figure it out.” S

Callie Beale Photography

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, The perfect venue for your special event 2 Canebrake Road, Savannah, GA. 31419 | 912.921.5460 | www.coastalgeorgiabg.org

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Hitched

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something new

The Making of a Wedding Gown

DANA CUBBAGE

Chase Chastain sees his bride—and her dress—for the first time on their wedding day.

This bride had her dream look custom designed. We tagged along for the process. Written by Sarah Taylor Asquith | Photography by Dana Cubbage, Teresa Earnest and Katie McGee

HEN NEWLY ENGAGED Erin Bacon started shopping for her wedding dress, she knew exactly what she wanted. Only problem was, she couldn’t find it anywhere. Bacon had recently seen an E! News clip about the wedding of Rich Kids of Beverly Hills star Morgan Stewart, and her custom-designed piece—long-sleeved lace top over silk mermaid skirt—was just what Bacon had in mind. “It was so different,” recalls the bride, who grew up in Savannah and now lives in Charleston, South Carolina. “I really liked the high neck and the fitted skirt—I couldn’t get it out of my head.” After a day spent shopping for a similar look, Bacon’s mother, Arlete, had an idea. “Let’s see if Cate can do it,” she suggested.

That Cate is Cate Lyon, a Savannah-based seamstress and designer who’s been custom-making wedding gowns and other made-to-order pieces for 35 years. In fact, in 2008, when Bacon couldn’t find the perfect prom dress (a colorful floor-length number), Lyon made it for her. While her three-piece wedding look (top, bralette, skirt) was admittedly quite a bit trickier, the designer completed it in about 60 hours from start to finish. That included five appointments: a consultation, three fittings and follow-up alterations. The bride kept it all a secret from her husband, Chase Chastain, until their big day in May. Upon their first-look photos, she says, “He saw my dress and said, ‘I love it—it’s so you.’ And that’s just what I was hoping for.” » fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

something new

2. Designer Cate Lyon, bride Erin Bacon and bridesmaid Lauren McEachern.

3. The bride’s grandmother and mother brought mimosas to celebrate the first fitting.

4. “With me, brides can save money on alterations and shipping costs,” says Lyon. “There’s no middle man.”

A L L O N T H I S PA G E B Y T E R E S A E A R N E S T

1. The design, fabrics and hues of white were determined at the initial appointment.

5. Based on the pattern, Lyon created a muslin version of the top, bralette and skirt. “You don’t want to cut into expensive fabrics before checking it all first,” she notes.

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The Result

6. The beaded Chantilly lace was ordered from a venerable factory in the U.K.—the same one that made the lace for Kate Middleton’s wedding, according to Lyon.

INSETS BY

K AT I E M C G E E

DANA CUBBAGE

7. The skirt featured a 48-inch long train, which Lyon designed with a ribbon bustle to draw in the extra length after the ceremony.

“I love how my wedding outfit turned out. It was so elegant and different from a typical wedding gown. It was very me.”

8. At the final fitting, Lyons fastened the silk buttons— all 40 of them—on the finished piece. S

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something new What should couples have in mind when they first meet with you? Corie: Their budget. I try to listen to key words—“really simple” means they don’t want to spend a lot. That’s OK. We just want to know going into it.

How do you describe your cooking? Mark: We bring Southern comfort food to the next level without taking it to a weird fusion level where you can’t tell what you’re eating. Our mac and cheese looks like mac and cheese.

When it comes to wedding food, what should you never skimp on? Corie: Service. You can get food from a million barbecue places around town or just get platters at Fresh Market, but it’s the people who are there serving that make the event a success.

What’s your most popular menu item?

9 Questions for

Corie and Mark Thomas CO-OWNERS, MAGNOLIA GRILL CATERING By Sarah Taylor Asquith | Photography by Angela Hopper BY THE END OF THIS YEAR, Mark and Corie Thomas will have catered some 150 weddings in and around Savannah. They also own a restaurant, Richmond Hill-based Bubba’s Bistro, where, wisely, they only serve lunch. The rest of their time is devoted to wedding prep, in addition to the occasional party or fundraiser. Their self-proclaimed specialty is shrimp and grits, and, having both grown up in Savannah, they’ve got the cred to show for it. Here, they talk breakfast for dinner, why a crudité is just wrong, and their dessert that comes with its own soundtrack.

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Corie: We do a lot of shrimp and grits—that’s our wheelhouse. Mark: Our flaming donuts are the happiest thing ever. We take Krispy Kreme donuts, sauté them in butter, flambé them in Maker’s Mark, and top them with vanilla bean ice cream, a Coca-Cola reduction and homemade candied pecans. And they come with their own theme music—either “Ring of Fire” or “Burning Down the House.”

Craziest request you’ve ever received? Corie: We had a bride who didn’t want any plates at her wedding. She had a vision of a cocktail party where everything was one bite, but her guests were hungry. The venue manager had to pull out paper plates.

What’s the next big thing in wedding food? Corie: Breakfast as the main meal. We’ll do things like waffle skewers with strawberries and syrup, baby quiches, hashbrown casseroles, an omelette station and a biscuit bar with homemade jellies. Mark: We’re getting so many requests! I blame Pinterest.

Is there a food trend you’re ready to say goodbye to? Corie: I hate a crudité. Whether you serve it in a Champagne flute or a terra cotta pot, it’s still raw carrots in ranch dressing. Mark: No matter what, that dumb thing is going to sit there and no one will eat it and it’s a waste of money. Corie: I really try to talk people out of it—let’s do grilled vegetables instead! But sometimes you can’t talk a grandma out of a crudité.

What’s your favorite thing to eat when you’re not working? Mark: Fried chicken and ribs. I love Ma Hanna’s, and also the street ribs at Tricks. I’ll stand around that parking lot for hours. Corie: Wings. My favorite are from Coach’s Corner—their Durkee Hot Sauce is the best ever.

You’re married. Did you cater your own wedding? Mark: No way! We woke up one morning and decided to get married, so we called our parents and went to the courthouse. Then we all went to Cracker Barrel. Corie: It was 10 years ago— we were ahead of the breakfast trend. S

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giveaway

Win It All!

Need a cool idea for your guests’ welcome bags? Consider it #handled. Post a photo of you and your betrothed and tell us why you want to get married in Savannah. Tag us with #SavMagWeddings for your chance to win 10 of these welcome bags, each stuffed with signature Savannah products.

Canvas tote, $19.99 each (10 percent off for wedding orders) from Savannah Bag Co., savannahbag.com

Photography by Teresa Earnest Large pralines, $3.25 each (bulk pricing available) at River Street Sweets, 4515 Habersham St., 800-793-3876, riverstreetsweets.com

Mini bottle of Chandon rosé sparkling wine, $10.50 each at The Cottage Shop, 2422 Abercorn St., 912-233-3820, thecottageshop. bridgecatalog.com

Bath fizzies, 6 for $15 or $3 each at from Nourish Natural Bath Products, 202 W. Broughton St., 912-232-3213, nourishsavannah.com

“Pop the Bubbly” to-go cups, $14 for a set of 10 at Emily McCarthy Shoppe, 2428 Abercorn St., 912-495-5386, emilymccarthy.com

No Natz all-natural bug repellant, $4.99 for 2 ounces at multiple locations, 478-676-3459, nonatz.com

Peach black tea, $6.95, and stainless infuser ball, $2.95, both at The Salt Table, 51 Barnard St. 912-447-0200, salttable.com

Georgia peach cookies, $2.95 at Byrd Cookie Company, multiple locations, 912-355-1716, byrdcookiecompany.com

Beeswax and propolis lip balm, $4 at Savannah Bee Company, 800-955-5080, savannahbee.com

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Copper party cup, $19.95 at Ghost Coast Distillery, 641 Indian St., 912-298-0071, ghostcoastdistillery.com

Signature Savannah cookies, starting at $4.20 each for multiple flavors (bulk pricing available on orders larger than three dozen) from Des Colores Cookies Y Mas, decolorescookiesymas.etsy.com

Caramel sea salt popcorn, $2.75 per bag at Savannah Rae’s Gourmet Popcorn (other flavors available), 206 W. Broughton St., 912-495-5015, savannahraes.com

SAVEUR YOUR MOMENT

912.721.0574

912.721.6900

WEDDINGS@39RUEDEJEANSAV.COM 605 W. OGLETHORPE AVE. SAVANNAH, GA 31401

Planning a wedding is an exciting adventure! The venue you choose is often the most significant detail of the day. At Cohen’s Retreat, we understand the importance of those details and will turn your vision into a beautiful reality that is ‘uniquely YOU’! Whether an intimate affair or grand gala, the rooms of Cohen’s Retreat provide the perfect backdrop for a most memorable celebration! Photography by Paprika Southern

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CALLIE BEALE

Real Weddings

IT’S ALL HAPPENING

The next 40 pages are devoted to some of Savannah’s most amazing weddings—from a holiday bash inside a stately museum to a nature-filled celebration at a historical landmark.

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real weddings

Cecilia & Bob

Season: winter Planning time: eight months Guests: 800+ Ceremony and reception: Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Benedictine Military School

Ring in the New As one year ends and another begins, two celebrated Savannahians host their nuptials with a joyous—and giant—party. By Amy Paige Condon | Photography by Chia and Hon Chong

ESPITE THE MANY CHALLENGES of getting married on a big holiday—higher costs, already-booked venues, traveling guests—Cecilia Russo had her sights set on a New Year’s Eve ceremony and reception. “That was the day my mom was diagnosed with cancer in 2008, and we hadn’t had a happy new year since,” says Cecilia. “I thought this would be the time to turn it around and make all of the New Year’s Eves to come happy and joyous.” Joyous it was, from the first glimpse of the bride in her oyster-tinted gown, to her serenading her new husband, Bob Turner, with a karaoke rendition of “Me and Bobby McGee” before they were sent off in a shower of sparklers. But, then again, this couple knows how to turn a

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moment into an event. Cecilia is the head of an eponymous marketing and fundraising firm, while Bob is the CEO of Turner Food and Spirits and American Park Services. Uniting their two worlds meant accommodating more than 800 extended family and friends, while also keeping the festivities meaningful and personal. During the ceremony at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Cecilia invited maternal figures, including aunts and her mother’s best friends, to join her in offering flowers to the Blessed Mother. They held the reception on the grounds of Benedictine Military School, where Cecilia’s grandfather, father, brother and nephews all attended. »

Cecilia carried her mother’s wedding dress on a plane to New York City, where she met with Modern Trousseau’s designer and seamstress, Callie Tein. Together, they dreamed up a light gray gown capped by a cuffed-sleeve jacket, fashioned from a singular piece of Italian mohair lace. Callie transferred the buttons from Cecilia’s mother’s gown and placed them along the wrist and down the bodice of the jacket—“where my blood pumps,” Cecilia says. The rest of the vintage gown remains intact, ready for a granddaughter or niece’s future nuptials.

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Festooned in white drapes and gleaming chandeliers, the 20,000-square-foot reception tent, custom-made by Eventhaus, offered intimate lounges for conversation. Guests were treated to a luxurious Champagne pyramid and food stations helmed by past and present chefs of Bob’s restaurants as well as a seafood bar with stone crab claws—a nod to Cecilia’s family’s business, Russo’s Seafood. While Cecilia says the band “had the party hopping well past midnight,” everyone paused to mark the hour with a countdown and an explosion of gold confetti—one more magical moment in an evening filled with sweet memories. S

Minette Rushing took cues from Cecilia’s gown for the seven-tier wedding cake.

The Details Event designer and florals: Sebrell Smith, Sebrell Smith Events Photographers: Chia and Hon Photography, Katie Joyner Photography Videographer: Tim Williams, Cathedral Productions Officiant: The Rev. Thomas Peyton Cake: Minette Rushing Custom Cakes Catering: Turner Food & Spirits chefs; seafood, Russo’s Seafood Ceremony music: Kristin King, harpist, New Arts Ensembles; Kim Polote, soloist Reception music: Atlanta Rhythm and Groove Bridal gown: Custom designed by Callie Tein, Modern Trousseau Hair and makeup: Tyler Rominger, Towne Salon; Genevieve Routon, Salon Twenty-Ten

Bridesmaids’ dresses: Bella Bridesmaids in Charleston, South Carolina Groom and groomsmen attire: J Parker Ltd. Rentals: Eventhaus, Beachview Event Rentals and Design, Royal Restrooms Stationery: Lowcountry Paper Co. After the father-daughter dance, Cecilia and dad, Charlie Russo, got down to Chubby Checker’s “The Twist.”

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Transportation: Old Savannah Tours Rehearsal dinner: Savannah Yacht Club

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Photography by Claire Diana Photography

Photography by: The Happy Bloom

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real weddings

Shannon & Britt Season: summer Planning time: 11 months Guests: 110 Ceremony and reception: Soho South CafĂŠ

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Bringing the Outdoors In A country-chic restaurant sets the mood at this lovely summer solstice-themed wedding.

Simple greenery, string lights and purposefully mismatched chairs created an unfussy garden-like party.

By Monica James | Photography by Mackensey Alexander

HANNON SNOW AND BRITT SPENCER first met as students at Savannah College of Art and Design. They dated, they broke up, and then they reconnected several years later when Britt moved back to Savannah. This time it stuck. In 2015, Britt recreated their first date and took Shannon kayaking at Cockspur Island, where he got down on one knee on the steps of the lighthouse. Eleven months later, they threw a summer solstice-themed wedding at Soho South Café, where they brought the outdoors in with layers of greenery (including crowns for both bride and

groom), herbs and an abundance of candles to represent the longest day of the year. Shannon wore a Leanne Marshall gown, and for the most part, no shoes. “For the mood we were creating, it felt like the most natural thing to be barefoot,” she says. Rather than a sit-down dinner, an assortment of heavy hors d’oeuvres was served, including a fresh oyster and shrimp display. “We wanted to keep the party atmosphere going after the cocktail hour,” says Shannon. Dessert was an homage to the couple’s Kentucky (Britt) and Georgia (Shannon) roots: a bourbon-infused vanilla cake filled with mascarpone mousse and peach preserves. S

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The Details Event designer and florals: Ivory and Beau Photographer: Mackensey Alexander Officiant: Benjamin Ward Cake: Lulu’s Chocolate Bar Catering: Soho South Café Ceremony music: Hammer Jam Production Deejay: Will Smith, W. Smith Music Bridal gown: Leanne Marshall Bridal accessories: Pamela Love jewelry Bridesmaids’ dresses: Jenny Yoo The couple made sure to keep the party going well into the reception, where they did a playful choreographed dance to “Total Eclipse of the Heart”—the song that was playing the first time they danced together. “It was so fun to share that silly side with our friends and family,” Shannon says.

Hair and makeup: JW Salon Groom and groomsmen attire: J. Crew Rentals: Savannah Vintage Rentals

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Jordan & Jared

Season: winter Planning time: four months Guests: 80 Ceremony and reception: Georgia State Railroad Museum

A Wintry Wedding at a Stately Museum Held inside a historical venue just two days before Christmas, this understated wedding feels at once cozy and grand. By Monica James | Photography by Anna Benton

OMETIMES YOU JUST KNOW. Jared Linson met Jordan Real in February, they got engaged in August and were married in December. And yes, that gave them only four months to coordinate it all—without a wedding planner. After spending a special day at the Georgia State Railroad Museum, the couple chose that very spot as the site for their ceremony and reception. “We were playing tourists in Savannah and loved our date there,” recalls Jordan, a Savannah local, who met Jared a week after he moved to town from Calhoun, Georgia. For their wedding, they worked with Kato Floral Design to create an understated Christmas theme of red flowers and sprigs of greenery, and tapped farm-to-table restaurant Cha Bella to design a

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menu that included dishes such as vegan mushroom ricotta ravioli. From there, it was all about friends and family. Jordan’s father helped the couple with the setup, while one friend officiated at the ceremony and two more played cello and guitar. For the reception, the bride changed into a beaded boho-style dress custom-made by her designer friend Merline Labissiere of Project Runway fame. And Jordan’s mother just so happens to be a pastry chef, so she made a vegan cake to accommodate the bride’s food allergies, as well as a host of non-vegan sweets (pound cake, cupcakes, Christmas cookies) for the dessert buffet. And now it’s time for more family: Jared and Jordan are expecting their first child in November. S

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Farm tables, string lights and greenery made for a warm and festive vibe inside the historic railroad museum.

The Details Event designer: Jordan Real, the bride Photographer: Anna Benton, Anna Benton Photography Videographer: Meagan Jordan, Lighthouse Wedding Productions Officiant: Nick Schultz, friend of the bride Florals: Kato Floral Design Cake: Angie Real, the bride’s mother, executive chef at Coastal Catering; dessert buffet by Real and the bride’s grandmother, Miriam Strickland Catering: Cha Bella Ceremony music: Jeff and Casey Sanders Reception music: Montrel Simpson Bridal gown: Allure (for ceremony); custom-made dress by Merline Labissiere (for reception) Bridesmaids’ dresses: BHLDN by Anthropologie Hair and makeup: hair byTiffany at Eden Salon; makeup by MAC boutique Groom and groomsmen attire: Belk Rentals: Amazing Event Rentals Rehearsal dinner: Riverhouse Seafood

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real weddings

Brittany & Emeka Season: fall Planning time: 11 months Guests: 100 (first event); 225 (second event) Ceremonies and receptions: The DeSoto (first event); Jepson Center for the Arts (second event)

A Day to Remember, Times Two A couple blends their cultures with a Nigerian celebration on one day and an American one the next. By Cassandra Handley | Photography by Billie Board

OSTING AN EXTRAVAGANT WEDDING is one thing. Hosting it days after Hurricane Matthew is another. But that’s just what Brittany Sullivan and Emeka Iwuagwu pulled off—and they did it with grace and style. “There was so much love, work and effort put into everything, we figured, whatever happens, happens,” recalls Brittany. ”At least we’ll be married and have an amazing story to tell.” While the days leading up to the wedding weekend were a bit of a scramble, all the logistics fell into place just in time. Orchestrated by Alysse Sweeney of Design Studio South, the celebration was a two-day affair that honored both Emeka’s Nigerian upbringing and Brittany’s Southern roots.

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The first event, held at The DeSoto, featured an authentic Nigerian ceremony and dinner for 100 of their closest family and friends. The next day was the larger ceremony and reception at the Jepson Center for the Arts, an ideal backdrop to the wedding’s clean and modern aesthetic. Long tables were draped in white tablecloths and topped with pops of gold and brights, while the menu was a mix of classic Americana and Nigerian fare. The bride wore a dreamy ballgown and the groom, a classic tux, with both of them changing into festive Nigerian wear for dancing. “The mixing of cultures was beautiful,” recalls Brittany. “We wanted the whole weekend to be chic, unstuffy and as effortless as possible, and that’s exactly what happened.” S

The second-day ceremony and reception was held at the Jepson Center for the Arts, where a palette of white, gold and bright hues set a cheerful and modern tone.

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The Details Event designer: Alysse Sweeney, Design Studio South Photographer and videographer: Billie Board, Billie Board Photography Officiant: Pastor John Coverdell (Jepson event) Florist: A to Zinnias (Jepson event) Cake: Wicked Cakes (Jepson event) Catering: Nations Café, Atlanta (both events) Ceremony and reception music: deejay Ijeoma Nwakanma (both events) Nigerian traditional wear: Nessa Will Fashion Home, Lagos, Nigeria Bridal gown: Martina Liana, Bleubelle Bridal accessories: Bleubelle Bridesmaids’ dresses: custom from David’s Bridal

For the Nigerian wedding, Brittany, Emeka and their guests dressed in traditional vibrant attire.

Hair and makeup: hair by Candace Rogers; makeup by Ryan Washington (Jepson event) Groom’s attire: Milano Exchange, Tampa Groomsmen attire: Combatant Gentlemen Rentals: Amazing Event Rentals

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Meg & Eric

Season: summer Planning time: 11 months Guests: 400 Ceremony and reception: Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, The DeSoto

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real weddings

They were married at the exquisite Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, which was constructed in 1839.

Big Love, Big Day, Big Party When this couple invited 400 of their nearest and dearest to their wedding, the result was one resplendent day in Savannah. By Monica James | Photography by Justin Brown

OTH MEG MASSEY AND ERIC BAYLISS come from large families, so they knew their wedding would be far from small. Working with Sebrell Smith Designer Events, they chose the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist for the ceremony and The DeSoto for the reception—plenty of room for their 400 guests, including nine bridesmaids (plus a junior bridesmaid) and groomsmen. “I was born and raised here and my parents were also both raised in Savannah, so we wanted to include friends we’ve known

for many years,” says Meg, who met Eric, an Ohio native, while working out at a CrossFit gym in Atlanta. After their traditional Catholic ceremony, during which Eric surprised Meg by taking his first communion, everyone gathered at the reception for a Southern feast that included everything from chicken and waffles to crab cakes to a macaroni-and-cheese bar. The bride and groom admitted to being too busy for more than a quick nibble. Luckily, says Meg, “From what we heard, our guests loved it all!” S

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The Details Event designer and florals: Sebrell Smith Designer Events Photographer: Justin Brown, The Happy Bloom Videographer: Vitor Lindo Officiant: Father Gerry Schreck Cake: Minette Rushing Custom Cakes Catering: Savannah DeSoto Ceremony music: New Arts Ensemble Reception music: Big Night Dynamite Bridal gown and veil: Casablanca Bridal Bridal accessories: engagement ring designed by Harkleroad Diamonds and Fine Jewelry Bridesmaidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dresses: Alfred Angelo Hair and makeup: Beyond Beautiful By Heather Groom and groomsmen attire: Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wearhouse Rehearsal dinner: Garibaldi After the Southern feast and fun-filled reception, guests surrounded Meg and Eric with sparklers as they drove off in a 1937 Packard. fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

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Jessica & Kyle Season: early spring Planning time: 15 months Guests: 120 Ceremony and reception: Washington Square, Charles H. Morris Center

Making History in a Famed Square With wanderlust and travel as themes, a destination wedding in Savannah makes perfect sense. By Cassandra Handley | Photography by Wendy Norman

AVANNAH’S WASHINGTON Square was the central point of Kyle Klingensmith and Jessica McElroy’s March wedding. The couple smartly planted their friends and family in surrounding rental homes, where everything was walkable: the rehearsal dinner at B. Matthew’s Eatery, the reception at the Charles H. Morris Center and the ceremony right there in the square itself. “That was one of the most fun things,” says Jessica. “Having guests stay close to all our destinations helped us have the family- and friend-focused weekend we wanted.” Speaking of destinations, central to the couple’s relationship is travel, and it showed in their wedding décor: response cards were

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passport-themed, asking guests to share their favorite city and what to do there if the couple should visit; the 3-D guest book took the form of a painted globe for everyone to sign, and the table settings highlighted cities Kyle and Jessica had visited together. Savannah, so it happens, has been a long-time stopping point for them when driving between Florida, where the groom attends law school, and Virginia, where the bride attends medical school. “We went to Savannah together for our first Valentine’s Day, and coming here has become a very special ritual for us,” says Jessica. “It only made sense to have our wedding in Savannah.” S

At their reception at the Charles H. Morris center, Jessica and Kyle featured travel-themed details, including a globe for guests to sign. fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

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The Details Event designer: House of Pata Photographer: Wendy Norman, Apt B Photography Videographer: Stephen Withers Films Officiant: Greg McElroy, bride’s uncle Rehearsal dinner: B. Matthew's Eatery Florist: Ivory and Beau Catering and cake: JThomas Catering Ceremony music: Craig and Olivia Mitchem and Caylee Griffin, friends of bride and groom Reception music: The Retreat Bridal gown: Essense of Australia from CC’s bridal boutique in St. Petersburg, Florida Bridal accessories: Kendra Scott jewelry, BHLDN shoes Bridesmaids’ dresses: Hayley Paige Occasions Hair and makeup: Beyond Beautiful by Heather Groom and groomsmen attire: suits by Tommy Hilfiger; groom tie by Brooks Brothers Rentals: Amazing Event rentals, Savannah Vintage Rentals, Lillian’s China Day-of details: Simply Jessica Marie for coozies, bar signs, food signs, place settings, table number cards and photo-booth watercolor scroll Guestbook globe: Newly Scripted Calligraphy: McKenzie Does Calligraphy Lighting: Advanced AV rentals

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Chamberlain & Stephen Season: spring Planning time: 11 months Guests: 215 Ceremony and reception: Savannah Yacht Club

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Shimmer and Glow at the Yacht Club Magical light was the icing on the cake at this springtime wedding. By Cassandra Handley | Photography by Justin Wojtczak “

T STARTED AS A JOKE, but I just had to have a glitter aisle.” So says Chamberlain Gambrell (née Iocovozzi) of the handpainted, custom walkway she had designed for her wedding to Stephen Gambrell. Chamberlain admittedly loves “shimmer and bedazzled everything,” thus her gown by Anna Campbell was also hand-embellished in head-to-toe sparkle, and she even changed into LED-lit shoes for dancing. The couple's goal, after all, was to make their day “feel more like a party.” A Savannah native, the bride said she always imagined getting married under the iconic tree on the river bluff at Savannah Yacht Club. Stephen, who grew up in Toccoa, Georgia, focused on the

wide-ranging menu and EDM playlist. “They say wedding days go by really quickly, but there was never a moment when we were like, ‘I don’t remember that,’” says Chamberlain. “We were both very present in enjoying the whole thing.” In addition to their friends and family, the couple secretly invited a few more special guests: 18 adoptable dogs from One Love Animal Rescue. Self-described “big animal people,” Chamberlain and Stephen surprised their bridal party by having the pups join the formal photographs. While it was a sure-fire way to put genuine smiles on everyone’s faces, there was also a greater purpose at hand: In lieu of a gift registry, guests were asked to donate to the shelter. S

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The Details Event designer: Chamberlain Iocovozzi, the bride Month-of coordinator: Jodi Jackson, Savannah Wedding Dreams Venue event coordinator: Ian Munroe Photographer and videographer: 375 Photography Inc. Officiant: Rev. Joseph Wadas Florist: Natalie McKee, A to Zinnias Cake: Bree Stanfill, Vintage Soul Cakes Groom’s Cake: Tina Arnsdorff

The shimmer theme was carried throughout with a cake tier in shining silver, and a glow-stick dance party at the end of the evening.

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Lulu’s, Halston Heritage Hair: Royal Makeup and Hair Makeup: Kristen Phelps, KP Makeup Artist Accessories: Anna Campbell, Cole Haan, Christian Louboutin, Kendra Scott, Tie Bar Groom's Attire: Black Lapel, Cole Haan Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux, Tie Bar Invitations: Basic Invite Lighting: Savannah Yacht Club, All About You Entertainment

Catering and bar: Savannah Yacht Club

Favors: LED Foam Sticks from Promotional Party Sticks, Coozies from Etsy

Ceremony Music: Two Strings Are Better Than One

Aisle Runner: The Original Runner Company

Deejay: All About You Entertainment

Photobooth: All About You Entertainment

Rings: Jaron Solomon, Solomon Brothers Fine Jewelry

Rentals: Shindigs Events, A to Zinnias

Bride’s gown: Anna Campbell, from Kelly’s Closet in Atlanta

Transportation: Old Town Trolley Tours

Bridesmaids dresses: Vera Wang, Adrianna Papell,

Rehearsal dinner: The Chatham Club

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Haley & Shae Season: spring Planning time: eight months Guests: 130 Ceremony and reception: Woodlawn Plantation

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Elegant Ease in a Bucolic Setting A rustic plantation is an idyllic backdrop for this calm and cool couple. By Cassandra Handley | Photography by Callie Beale

HEN PLANNING THEIR WEDDING, Shae Hudson and Haley Carpenter say “super chill” was their main goal, and that’s exactly how the day played out. The Savannah locals chose the nature-infused Woodlawn Plantation as backdrop to both the reception and ceremony. Carlson Premiere Events took a “less is more” approach with the simple and tastefully sparse décor and table settings, while JoAnn’s Florist created loose, free-flowing arrangements. “It all was super eclectic, outdoors, very natural, and just us,” says Haley, who wore blush-pink Vans sneakers to match her bridesmaid dresses and flowers. Even the menu was no-fuss. The ceremony began at 6 p.m., yet the couple chose to serve the most important meal of the day. “We are big breakfast people and Shae attended culinary school,” says Haley. “Before we even got engaged, we were dead set on breakfast food at

our wedding.” Thus they tapped Mark Scomo of Savannah Event Catering to create a menu of chicken and waffles with berry compote, ham and pineapple aioli on sweet potato biscuits, and veggie-chorizo scrambled eggs. The cakes, all 10 of them, were made by family and friends, including carrot cake from the father of the bride and red velvet pound cake from the mother of the groom. “If there was anything that went wrong that day,” says Haley, “I seriously have no idea about it.” S

“It was all super eclectic, outdoors, very natural, and just us,” says the bride of their wedding day.

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The Details Event designer: Carlson Premiere Events Photographer: Callie Beale, Callie Beale Photography Videographer: Isaac Simpson Officiant: Erik Carpenter Florist: JoAnn’s Florist Cake: Cake Corner Catering: Savannah Event Catering Ceremony music: Jalen Reyes Deejay: All About You Entertainment Bridal gown: J’Adore; alterations by Alterations by Carolyn Bridal accessories: Kendra Scott earrings, Vans shoes Bridesmaids’ dresses: Bleubelle Hair and makeup: hair by Josh Carpenter; makeup by Abby Newcomer Groom and groomsmen attire: Jos. A Bank Less is more was the theme of the day—from the décor to the food— allowing Woodlawn Plantation’s natural beauty to shine through.

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Rentals: Southern Belle Wedding and Event Rentals; Carlson Premiere Events and Rentals

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Ashley & Ken Season: spring Planning time: 11 months Guests: 75 Ceremony and reception: Red Gate Farms

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Downhome Charm at a Farm Wedding Nature plays host to this Savannah couple’s simple yet elegant party. By Monica James | Photography by Izzy Hudgins

UST BEFORE KEN JACOBSEN left for an Army deployment, he took his girlfriend, Ashley Latimer, to Discovery Cove in Orlando where they swam with dolphins and taught them tricks. During the last trick, Ashley gave the dolphin the signal to swim away. When it came back, it was carrying a buoy that read “Ashley, will you marry me?” A little less than a year later, the Savannah locals said “I do” at Red Gate Farms before 75 guests, including friends who flew to Savannah from Germany and South Korea. Ken’s father, Scott Jacobsen, officiated at the ceremony, held under a eucalyptus

archway overlooking a pond. The bride wore a necklace made from her grandmother’s wedding ring and a bracelet that had belonged to Ken’s grandmother. Ken also wore an heirloom bracelet, his from his grandfather Kenny and inscribed with his name. For the reception, the party moved over to the barn, where the tables were topped with simple yet elegant baby’s breath arrangements, and string lights twinkled from the rafters. Dancing, cornhole and a photo booth set the mood for the rest of the evening, which came to a close in grand style: The newlyweds drove off in a white 1969 Cadillac convertible. S

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Above: The couple wore heirloom bracelets from the groom’s grandparents. Below: The bridal party dressed in shades of gray—a modern juxtaposition to the outdoorsy setting.

The Details Event designer: Cindy Brown, All About You Entertainment Photographer: Izzy Hudgins, Izzy Hudgins Photography Officiant: Scott Jacobsen, the groom’s father Florals: Carlson’s Premier Events; the archway was made by a friend of the bride, Maddie Bradin Cake: Savannah Smallcakes Catering: Magnolia Grill Catering Deejay: All About You Entertainment Bridal gown and bridesmaids’ dresses: David’s Bridal Hair and makeup: 40 Volume Salon and Spa Groom and groomsmen's attire: Men’s Wearhouse Bride and groom car rental: Martin’s Vintage Rides

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fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

real weddings

Caitlin & Joshua Season: spring Planning time: 16 months Guests: 61 Ceremony and reception: Wormsloe Historic Site, Vic’s on the River

Wonderland at Wormsloe A wedding at one of Savannah’s most picturesque sites celebrates family and unity. By Cassandra Handley | Photography by Callie Beale

OSHUA REAVER AND CAITLIN DUTTON’S wedding day was a family effort, from the wildflower-bedecked arbor, handmade by the groom’s father, to the mint julep and hummingbird cupcakes baked by his aunt. “Marriage is about uniting families,” says Caitlin. “We tried hard to keep the day about all of us, instead of just the two of us.” Of course, the couple still integrated some tender moments for themselves, including three versions of vows during their picturesque ceremony at the end of Wormsloe Historic Site’s famed oak avenue. One set, written in journals handmade by Joshua and presented in a small wooden box, was read only by each other. The others included

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more traditional lines recited in front of the guests, and then a brief mantra whispered to each other during the exchange of rings. Later at the Vic’s on the River reception, Joshua and Caitlin, both theater performers in New York City, surprised guests with a choreographed dance to Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” the song they danced to when they first met. The Savannah locale was a destination wedding for some, and a homecoming for others. Caitlin, a native Savannahian, and Joshua, from Palm City, Florida, say they both see Southern living as a life goal. “Savannah represents us well as a couple,” says the bride. “We want to move back eventually and slow down.” S

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

real weddings

Joshua and Caitlin wrote three different sets of vows, some private and some public, for their tender ceremony, held at the end of Wormsloe’s oak avenue.

The Details Photographer: Callie Beale, Callie Beale Photography Officiant: Zach Morris Cake: cupcakes by Vicki Langlois, groom’s aunt Catering: Vic’s on the River Ceremony music: Yvonne Johnson, JL Music Service Deejay: Alberto Denis Bridal gown: corset and skirt by Watters Bridal accessories: Shoes by Seychelles, hairpin by Sigal Shakked Jewelry Bridesmaids’ dresses: Lauren James Hair and makeup: Beyond Beautiful by Heather Ferguson Groom’s attire: Bonobos Rehearsal dinner: The Crab Shack

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D E S I G N • D E TA I L S • C AT E R I N G • E X P E R T A D V I C E • AT T I R E

S AVA N N A H W E D D I N G S M A G . C O M

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

a place for us

A Warm Reception

W E N DY N O R M A N

Short of choosing your soulmate, the venue may be the single most important wedding decision you will make. Here, area wedding sites share their statistics.

Charles H. Morris Center

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NCA SIT TE E RI NG AL ? LO O W FC C AT HO ER IC ER E RO ? O M CH AR GE ? CA K CH E C A R UT G E TI N ? G O VE G U RN ES IGH TS T ? HA ND AC I CE CA SS P ? DA NC FL E O O R?

Y CE R SI EM TE O ? N

AX RE IM C U CA EPT M PA IO CI N TY

10 Downing at Churchill's Pub thebritishpub.com, 912.232.8501

Historic District 13 W. Bay St.

17 Hundred 90 Inn 17hundred90.com, 912.236.7122

Historic District 307 E. President St.

Y or food & bev. min.

109 West 109west.net, 912.232.6633

Historic District 109 W. Liberty St.

39 Rue de Jean 39ruedejeansav.com, 912.721.0595

Historic District 225 605 W. Oglethorpe Ave.

Y or food Y & bev. min.

fee

Andaz Savannah savannah.andaz.hyatt.com 912.233.2116

Historic District 14 Barnard St.

150

Armstrong Center armstrong.edu/armstrongcenter 912.344.2953

Southside 13040 Abercorn St.

600

B. Matthew's Eatery bmatthewseatery.com, 912.233.1319

Historic District 325 E. Bay St.

The Ballroom at the American Legion alpost135.com, 912.233.9277

Historic District 1108 Bull St.

299

The Barn at Red Gate Farms savannahsvenue.com, 912.438.0995

West Savannah 190 Redgate Trail Road

300

Beachview Bed and Breakfast beachviewbbtybee.com, 912.786.5500

Tybee Island 1701 Butler Ave.

Belfair belfair1811.com, 843.757.0701

Bluffton, S.C. 200 Belfair Oaks Blvd.

240

Belford's Savannah Seafood & Steaks belfordssavannah.com, 912.233.2626

Historic District 315 W. Saint Julian St.

150

Berkeley Hall berkeleyhallclub.com/weddings.php 843.815.8493

Bluffton, S.C. 120 indoor; 366 Good Hope Road 300+ outdoor

Bethesda: Whitefield Chapel, Lady Huntington Amphitheater and Bethesda Academy bethesdarentals.org 912.691.5294

9520 Ferguson Ave.

Bloody Point Golf Club & Resort bloodypointresort.com 843.341.3030

Daufuskie Island, S.C. 80 interior; 56 Fuskie Lane 175 exterior

Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront bohemiansavannah.com 912.721.3800

Historic District 102 W. Bay St.

110 interior; 150 exterior/interior

Botanical Garden, Savannah Area Council of Garden Clubs and Historic Reinhard Farmhouse savannahbotanical.org, 912.844.9337

Midtown 1388 Eisenhower Drive

40 interior; 120 exterior

The Briceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;A Kimpton Hotel bricehotel.com, 912.238.1200

Historic District 601 E. Bay St.

125

Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University georgiasouthern.edu/garden, 912.478.1149

Statesboro (Georgia Southern University) 1505 Bland Ave.

125 pavilion; 400 with tent

Brockington Hall brockingtonhall.com, 912.358.8440

Historic District 213 E. Hall St.

150

150 chapel; 200 indoor reception; unlimited outdoor ceremony or reception

LOCATION

VENUE

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

NCA SIT TE E RI NG AL ? LO O W FC C AT HO ER IC ER E RO ? O CH M AR GE ? CA KE CH C A R UT G E TI N ? G O VE R GU N ES IGH TS T ? HA ND AC I CE CA SS P ? DA NC FL E O O R?

Y CE R SI EM TE O ? N

M A RE X I CE MU CA PT M PA IO CI N TY

a place for us LOCATION

Broughton Street Guest House and Carriage House savannahvillas.com, 912.232.6633

Historic District 511 E. Broughton St.

Bryson Hall brysonhall.com, 912.272.4435 Callawassie Island callawassieisland.com, 843.987.2143

Historic District 5 E. Perry St. Callawassie Island, S.C. 22 Callawassie Club Dr.

125 seated; 225 standing 225 interior; 300 exterior

Catholic Pastoral Center diosav.org/event-rentals, 912.201.4069

Midtown 2170 E. Victory Drive

96 seated; 150 standing

Cha Bella cha-bella.com, 912.790.7888

Historic District 102 East Broad St.

120

Charles H. Morris Center trusteesgarden.com, 912.443.3277

Historic District 10 East Broad St.

300

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens coastalgeorgiabg.org, 912.921.5460

Southside 2 Canebrake Road

200 interior; 300 exterior

Cohen’s Retreat cohensretreat.com, 912.355.3336

Magnolia Park 5715 Skidaway Road

call for info

The Conch House Special Event Facility liveoakrestaurants.net, 912.233.2901

River Street 225 W. River St.

250 seated; 350 standing

preferred Y list

call

Cotton Sail Hotel cottonsailhotel.com, 912.200.3700

Historic District 126 W. Bay St.

60 seated w/dance floor; 100 without

Courtyard by Marriott—Savannah Historic District courtyard.com/savdt, 912.790.8287

Historic District 415 W. Liberty St.

The DeSoto thedesotosavannah.com, 912.443.2008

Historic District 15 E. Liberty St.

850

The Distillery Alehouse distilleryalehouse.com, 912.236.1772

Historic District 416 W. Liberty St.

100

Doubletree Hotel—Historic Savannah historicsavannah.doubletree.com 912.790.7000

Historic District 411 W. Bay St.

150

food & bev. min.

The Dresser Palmer House dresserpalmerhouse.com, 912.238.3294

Historic District 211 E. Gaston St.

Dunham Farms dunhamfarms.com, 912.880.4500

Sunbury 5836 Islands Hwy.

250

The Ford Plantation fordplantation.com, 912.756.5725

Richmond Hill 12511 Ford Ave.

300

bridal

Forsyth Park Inn forsythparkinn.com 912.233.6800

Historic District 102 W. Hall St.

Fort King George Historic Site gastateparks.org/fortkinggeorge 912.437.4770

Darien 302 McIntosh Road SE

Fort McAllister State Historic Park gastateparks.org/fortmcallister 912.727.2339

Richmond Hill 130 3894 Fort McAllister Road

Garibaldi Café garibaldisavannah.com, 912.232.7118

City Market 315 W. Congress St.

120

The Gastonian gastonian.com 912.232.2869

Historic District 220 E. Gaston St.

must book N entire inn (17 rooms)

80 savannah weddings

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VENUE

With over 600 weddings successfully served, we are simply the most experienced and trusted at making you and your day as beautiful as can be! Our award-winning team is licensed and insured and has extensive education in their area of expertise. Our rave reviews tell us that our brides love us and you will too! We can’t wait to be by your side!

BridesSideBeauty.com | 843-368-2660

Tickled Peach Photography

On Location Makeup & Hair

ALWAYS LOOK AT TH E B RI DE’S SI DE!

THE LOWCOUNTRY’S LEADER IN BRIDAL BEAUTY

Let us help you say “Yes to That Dress” Minutes from Savannah and convenient to South Carolina Full Service Bridal Boutique 183 Commercial Drive, Rincon, GA 31326 (912) 295-2099 | ThatDressStore.com fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

O N CA -SIT TE E RI NG ? AL LO O W FC AT CH ER OIC ER E RO ? O CH M AR GE ? CA K CH E C A R UT G E TI ? NG O VE G U RN ES IG TS HT ? HA N AC D CE ICA SS P ? DA N FL CE O O R?

CE R SI EM TE O ? N

M A RE X IM C U CA EPT M PA IO CI N TY

a place for us VENUE

LOCATION

Georgia Historical Society georgiahistory.com, 912.651.2125 x120

Historic District 501 Whitaker St.

200

choose from list

Georgia State Railroad Museum chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038

Historic District 601 W. Harris St.

300

Gingerbread House gingerbreadhouseevents.com, 912.358.8440

Victorian District 1921 Bull St.

150

Grand Lake Club at Southbridge grandlakesav.com/weddings 912.233.2466

Southbridge 815 Southbridge Blvd.

170 seated; 250 standing

depends on venue

Hampton Hall Club hamptonhallclubsc.com/weddings 843.815.9336

Bluffton, S.C. 380 seated; 170 Hampton Hall Blvd. 425+ standing

Hampton Inn and Suites—Savannah Downtown Historic District hamptoninn3.hilton.com, 912.721.1600

Historic District 201 MLK Jr. Blvd.

125

Hampton Inn and Suites— Savannah Midtown hamptoninn3.hilton.com, 912.721.3700

Midtown 20 Johnston St.

150

ask

The Harper Fowlkes House harperfowlkeshouse.com, 912.234.2180

Historic District 230 Barnard St.

120

patio

Hellenic Center stpaulsgreekorthodox.org 912.236.8256

Victorian District 19 W. Anderson St.

450 gym; 80 meeting room

Y (with cert. of liability)

Hilton Garden Inn—Savannah Historic District stayhgi.com, 912.721.5000

Historic District 321 W. Bay St.

food & bev. min.

Hilton Garden Inn—Savannah Midtown stayhgi.com, 912.652.9323

Midtown 5711 Abercorn St.

300

food & bev. min.

Hotel Indigo Savannah hotelindigosavannah.com, 912.236.4440

Historic District 201 W. Bay St.

100

ask

fee

Hotel Tybee hoteltybee.com, 912.786.7777

Tybee Island 1401 Strand Ave.

220

food & bev. min.

Hyatt Regency Savannah savannahhyatt.com, 912.238.1234

Historic District 2 W. Bay St.

600

food & bev. min.

Isaiah Davenport House Museum davenporthousemuseum.org 912.236.8097

Historic District 324 E. State St.

100

in the garden

patio

The Jekyll Island Club jekyllclub.com, 855.535.9547

Jekyll Island 371 Riverview Drive

330

Y Y (required)

Kehoe House kehoehouse.com, 912.232.1020

Historic District 123 Habersham St.

55 with full house rental

The Lake Club hiltonheadlakeclub.com, 843.208.2220

Hilton Head, S.C. 300 Harborside Drive

290

The Lighthouse Rincon Georgia thelighthouserinconga.com 912.826.4672

Rincon 120 North Columbia Ave., Hwy. 21

100

The Mackey House mackeyhouse.com, 912.234.7404

Chatham Parkway 190 Red Gate Farm Trail

400 including house, Y garden & pavilion

patio

The Mansion on Forsyth Park mansiononforsythpark.com 912.238.5158

Historic District 700 Drayton St.

200 seated; 250 standing

The Marshall House marshallhouse.com, 912.644.7896

Historic District 123 E. Broughton St.

290

Y; holds 80

82 savannah weddings

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Have your Cake and Cupcakes too! Who said you have to choose? Now baking custom cakes for your special day. From custom Bride and Groom’s cakes, mini cupcakes, indulgent cheesecakes, and stuffed cookies, we have something for every bride. Tower rental, set up, and delivery also available to make your wedding day simple. Call us to schedule a free complimentary tasting!

Gigi’s Cupcakes of Savannah 5521 Abercorn St, Suite 100 • Savannah, GA 31405 (912) 349-2778 • savannahga@gigiscupcakesusa.com fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

O N CA -SI T E TE RI NG ? AL O LOW FC AT CH ER OI ER CE RO ? CH OM AR GE ? CA K CH E AR CU G E TT ? ING O VE GU R ES NIG TS H ? T HA AC ND CE IC SS AP ? DA FL N C O E O R?

NY CE SI REM TE O ?

AX RE IM C U CA EPT M PA IO CI N TY

a place for us LOCATION

Massie Heritage Center massieschool.com 912.395.5070

Historic District 207 E. Gordon St.

75 meeting room; 75 girls' garden; 75 boys' garden

Y; small

preferred N list

garden area

Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub & Grill macphersonspub.com, 912.239.9600

Historic District 311 W. Congress St.

maybe

limited

Montage Palmetto Bluff palmettobluff.com 843.706.6500

Bluffton, S.C. 476 Mount Pelia Road

175

food & bev. min.

Moon River Brewing Co. moonriverbrewing.com 912.447.0943

Historic District 21 W. Bay St.

125

National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force mightyeighth.org, 912.748.8888

Pooler 175 Bourne Ave.

up to 350; 120 in chapel

choose from list

Oglethorpe Inn & Suites 912.354.8560

Southside 7110 Hodgson Mem.

75 in theater or book the whole inn

Y with reserv.

Y, unless min. met

Old Fort Jackson chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038

East Savannah 1 Fort Jackson Road

150; approx. 600 with rentals

For 150 or less

The Olde Pink House plantersinnsavannah.com, 912.232.4286

Historic District 23 Abercorn St.

200+

Oldfield Club oldfield1732.com, 843.645.4622

Okatie, S.C. 130 Oldfield Way

300

Ort Hall ladyandsons.com, 912.233.2600

Historic District 112 W. Congress St.

70 seated

Palmetto Coast Charters 912.786.5403

Tybee Island 8 Logan St.

unlimited (beach, lighthouse, boats)

can be arranged

$1,000 for boat

The Pirates' House thepirateshouse.com, 912.233.5757

Historic District 20 East Broad St.

200

Pin Point Heritage Museum chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038

Southside 9924 Pin Point Ave.

200

Planters Inn on Reynolds Square plantersinnsavannah.com, 800.554.1187

Historic District 29 Abercorn St.

receptions at The Olde Pink House

Presidents’ Quarters Inn presidentsquarters.com 912.233.1600

Historic District 225 E. President St.

N, full inn only

Red Bluff Plantation redbluffplantation.com 855.348.4375

Hardeeville, S.C. unlimited exterior 545 Glasgow Landing Road

house N, N grounds Y

The Reynolds Mansion on Sapelo Island reynoldsonsapelo.com 912.485.2299

Sapelo Island 1766 Landing Road

100

Richmond Hill City Center richmondhillcitycenter.com 912.445.0043

Richmond Hill 520 Cedar St.

400

The River House Seafood Restaurant savannahriverhouse.com, 912.234.1900

Historic District 125 W. River St.

65 seated, 120 standing

River Street Inn riverstreetinn.com, 912.234.6400

Historic District 124 E. Bay St.

N, with Y exceptions

Ruth’s Chris Steak House ruths-chris.com, 912.721.4800

Historic District 111 W. Bay St.

100

varies

with fee

Savannah Children's Museum chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038

Historic District 601 W. Harris St.

300

84 savannah weddings

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VENUE

Savannahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier gift & bridal registry.

Monday-Friday 9:30-5:30 Saturday by appointment www.cottageshopgifts.com (912) 233-3820 2422 Abercorn Street 2 blocks north of Victory Dr.

EventWorksRentals.com CHARLESTON 843.633.1900

MYRTLE BEACH 843.492.7011

SAVANNAH

912.483.5907

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

O N CA -SI TE TE RI NG ? AL O LOW FC AT CH ER OI ER CE RO ? CH OM AR GE ? CA K CH E AR CU G E TT ? ING O VE GU R ES NIG TS HT ? HA N AC D CE ICA SS P ? DA N FL C O E O R?

CE SI REM TE O ? N

AX RE IM C U CA EPT M PA IO CI N TY

a place for us

LOCATION

Savannah Civic Center savannahcivic.com, 912.651.6550

Historic District 400 301 W. Oglethorpe Ave.

Savannah History Museum chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038 Savannah International Trade & Convention Center savtcc.com, 912.447.4063

Historic District 303 MLK Jr. Blvd. Hutchinson Island 1 International Drive

80-100

1,000

Savannah Marriott Riverfront savannahmarriott.com 912.233.7722

Historic District 100 General McIntosh Blvd.

1,000

Savannah Quarters Country Club savannahquarterscc.com 912.450.2285

Pooler 8 Palladian Way

200 interior; 400 exterior

Savannah Riverboat savannahriverboat.com, 912.232.6404

Historic District 9 E. River St.

450-600

Savannah Station savannahstation.com, 912.233.5400

Historic District 601 Cohen St.

500 standing; 350 seated

choose from list

N/A

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum (William Scarbrough House and Gardens) shipsofthesea.org, 912.232.1511

Historic District 41 MLK Jr. Blvd.

400

The Shrimp Factory theshrimpfactory.com, 912.236.4229

Historic District 313 E. River St.

Y, (N in N restrooms)

Skidaway Island State Park gastateparks.org/skidawayisland 912.598.2300

Southside 52 Diamond Causeway

150

camping only

Surf Song Bed and Breakfast tybeesurfsong.com, 912.472.1040

Tybee Island 21 Officers Row

choose from list

N at B&B N Y at beach

Telfair Museums telfair.org, 912.790.8879

Historic District 121 Barnard St.

850 at the Jepson Center

choose from list

Tybee Island Light Station tybeelighthouse.org, 912.786.5801

Tybee Island 30 Meddin Ave.

400

N/A

Y, some

Tybee Island Wedding Chapel and Grand Ballroom tybeeweddingchapel.com, 912.786.9099

Tybee Island 1114 U.S. Hwy. 80 E.

180

Vic's on the River vicsontheriver.com

Historic District 26 E. Bay St.

200+

Villa Marie Center diosav.org/event-rentals 912.201.4069

Isle of Hope 6 Dolan Drive

96 seated; 150 standing

Villas by the Sea Resort jekyllislandga.com 800.841.6262

Jekyll Island 1175 N. Beachview Drive

Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa westinsavannah.com, 912.201.2000

Historic District 1 Resort Drive

840 seated; 1,600 standing

N, unless special

food & bev. min.

The Whitman Savannah TheWhitmanSavannah.com, 912.373.8111

Historic District 611 Whitaker St.

125

Wilmington Island Club wilmingtonislandclub.com 912.897.1612

Wilmington Island 501 Wilmington Island Road

235 seated w/dance floor; 300 standing

The Wyld Dock Bar thewylddockbar.com, 912.692.1219

Eastside 200 2740 Livingston Ave.

90%

86 savannah weddings

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VENUE

needs

a place for us

Sacred Spaces

JUSTIN BROWN

When it comes to saying your vows, this coastal city boasts a host of ceremony locations.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

88 savannah weddings

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All Saints Episcopal Church Tybee Island 804 Jones Ave. 912.786.5845 allsaintstybee.com Ardsley Park Baptist Church Ardsley Park 3802 Bull St. 912.234.1256 apsavannah.com Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church Eastside 1008 Henry St. 912.233.4351 asburymemorial.org Bible Baptist Church Eastside 4700 Skidaway Road 912.352.3020 bbsav.org Blessed Sacrament Catholic Ardsley Park 1003 E. Victory Drive 912.356.6980 mbschurch.org Bull Street Baptist Church Victorian District 1400 Bull St. 912.236.1511 bullstreet.org Calvary Baptist Midtown 4625 Waters Ave. 912.351.2288 cbtsavannah.org Cathedral of St. John the Baptist Historic District 222 E. Harris St. 912.233.4709 savannahcathedral.org

Congregation Agudath Achim Midtown 9 Lee Blvd. 912.352.4737 agudath-achim.com

Isle of Hope United Methodist Isle of Hope 412 Parkersburg Road 912.355.8527 iohumc.com

St. Michael Catholic Church Tybee Island 802 Lovell Ave. 912.786.4505 saintmichaelstybee.org

Trinity Lutheran Church Southside 12391 Mercy Blvd. 912.925.4839 trinitylutheransavannah.org

Congregation Bnai Brith Jacob Midtown 5444 Abercorn St. 912.354.7721 bbjsynagogue.com

Kingdom Life Christian Fellowship Southside 328 Tibet Ave. 912.921.5346 kingdomlifesav.org

St. Paul’s Greek Orthodox Church Victorian District 14 W. Anderson St. 912.236.8256 stpaulsgreekorthodox.org

Trinity United Methodist Historic District 225 W. President St. 912.233.4766 trinity1848.org

Congregation Mickve Israel Historic District 20 E. Gordon St. 912.233.1547 mickveisrael.org

Lutheran Church of the Ascension Historic District 120 Bull St. 912.232.4151 ascensionsavannah.org

St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Wilmington Island 7030 Concord Road 912.897.5224 saintpetertheapostle.com

Unitarian Universalist Church Historic District 313 E. Harris St. 912.234.0980 uusavannah.org

The Crossroad Baptist Church Southside 8510 Middleground Road 912.925.0571 thecrossroadbaptist.com

Masjid Jihad Victorian District 117 E. 34th St. 912.236.7387 masjidjihad.com

St. Peter’s Episcopal Skidaway Island 3 W. Ridge Rd. 912.598.7242 stpeterssavannah.org

Wesley Oak United Methodist Church Thunderbolt 3124 E. Victory Dr. 912.352.0844

Radiant Life Christian Fellowship Midtown 5619 Skidaway Road 912.354.1780 ralife.org

St. Philip AME Historic District 613 Martin Luther King Junior Blvd. 912.233.2083 stphilipame.com

Sacred Heart Catholic Church Victorian District 1707 Bull St. 912.232.0792 sacredheartsavannah.org

St. Philip Monumental AME Historic District 1112 Jefferson St. 912.233.8547

First African Baptist Church Historic District 23 Montgomery St. 912.233.6597 firstafricanbc.com First Presbyterian Church Ardsley Park 520 Washington Ave. 912.354.7615 savannahfpc.org First United Pentecostal Church Southside 1735 Grove Point Road 912.927.0569 pentecostalsofsavannah.org

Christ Church Anglican Victorian District 2020 Bull St. 912.355.1526 ccasav.org

Independent Presbyterian Church of Savannah Historic District 207 Bull St. 912.236.3346 ipcsav.org

Christ Church Episcopal Historic District 28 Bull St. 912.236.2500 christchurchsavannah.org

Islands Christian Church Whitemarsh Island 4601 U.S. Hwy. 80 E. 912.897.3604 islandschristian.org

St. Francis of the Islands Episcopal Church Wilmington Island 590 Walthour Road 912.897.5725 stfrancissavannah.org St. John’s Episcopal Church Historic District 1 W. Macon St. 912.232.1251 stjohnssav.org St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Ardsley Park 3101 Waters Ave. 912.354.7230 stmichaelsavannah.georgia episcopal.org

Wesley Monumental United Methodist Historic District 429 Abercorn St. 912.232.0191 wesleymonumental.org

Savannah Christian Church Southside 55 Al Henderson Blvd. 912.925.9657 savannahchristian.com Second African Baptist Church Historic District 123 Houston St. 912.233.6163 Skidaway Island United Methodist Skidaway Island 54 Diamond Causeway 912.598.8460 siumc.org Southside Baptist Church Midtown 5502 Skidaway Road 912.355.9555 southsidebaptistchurch.org

White Bluff Presbyterian Southside 10710 White Bluff Road 912.927.1731 whitebluffpresbyterian.com White Bluff United Methodist Southside 11911 White Bluff Road 912.925.5924 wbumc.org Wilmington Island Presbyterian Wilmington Island 450 N. Cromwell Road 912.897.1840 wipcsav.org Wilmington Island United Methodist Wilmington Island 195 Wilmington Island Road 912.897.2835 islandmethodist.com

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

Your story is unique. Make sure it lives on forever. Celebrate your most important day by placing your engagement and wedding announcements in the Savannah Morning News. Call 912-652-0470 for more information.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Love The

List

Planning a Savannah wedding? These experts will lead you to wedded bliss in style. APPAREL

CAKES/DESSERTS

Harper 912-235-5172 harpersavannah.com 118 Bull St. Page 65

Big Boy Cookies 912-486-4711 bigboycookies.com jonny@bigboycookies.com 4415 Main St. Statesboro, GA 30458 Page 15

Modern Trousseau 912-201-1930 moderntrousseauga.com savannah@moderntrousseau.com 22 E. Broughton St. Pages 2-3 That Dress Store 912-295-2099 thatdressstore.com 183 Commercial Drive Rincon, GA 31326 Page 81

Savannah’s Hall of Cakes 912-826-0096 savannahshallofcakes.com 217 N. Columbia Ave. No. 1 Rincon, GA 31326 Page 4 Savannah Rae’s Popcorn 912-495-5015 savannahraes.com 206 W. Broughton St. »

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

CATERERS Cha Bella and Earth to Table Catering 912-227-0136 cha-bella.com 102 East Broad St. Page 83 The Pirates’ House 912-233-2225 thepirateshouse.com 20 East Broad St. Page 77

EQUIPMENT RENTAL Amazing Event Rentals 912-927-2666 amazingeventrentals.com Page 73 Beachview Event Rentals & Design 912-510-3800 877-782-7368 beachview.net Page 15

Kato Floral Designs 912-508-1166 katoweddings.com 418 E. Broughton St. Page 6-7 Kiwi Fleur 912-352-0995 kiwifleur.com 714 Mall Blvd., Ste. 2 Page 61 Madame Chrysanthemum 912-238-3355 Find us on Facebook 101 W. Taylor St. Page 12

PHOTOGRAPHY/ VIDEOGRAPHY Izzy Hudgins Photography izzyhudgins.com izzy.hudgins@gmail.com

Old Town Trolley Tours 912-715-7722 trolleytours.com/savannah 1115 Louisville Road Page 53

Cohen’s Retreat 912-355-3336 cohensretreat.com 5715 Skidaway Road Page 36

SALONS/MAKEUP/SPAS

VENUES

Bride’s Side Beauty 843-368-2660 bridessidebeauty.com Page 81

39 Rue de Jean 912-721-0574 39ruedejeansav.com weddings@39ruedejeansav.com 605 W. Oglethorpe Ave. Page 35

The Harper Fowlkes House 912-234-2180 harperfowlkeshouse.com 230 Barnard St. (on Orleans Square)

Hustle and Blow Dry Bar 912-346-6021 thelilycollective.com 5521 Abercorn St., Ste. 300 JW Salon 912-236-7577 jwsalon.com 19 E. York St. Page 41 Spa Bleu 912-236-1490 spableu-sav.com 101 Bull St.

SPECIAL SERVICES GIFTS/GIFT REGISTRIES

EventWorks Rentals 803-633-1900 eventworksrentals.com 202 Bourne Blvd., Ste. 230 912-483-5907 Page 85 Savannah Special Events by Ranco 912-944-6200 rancotents.com 117 Westside Blvd., Pooler Page 65

EVENT PLANNERS Gray Harper Event Maker 912-228-2920 grayharper.com hello@grayharper.com

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Savannah Wedding Dreams 912-414-1679 savannahweddingdreams.com

FLORAL DESIGN

Thrive Catering 912-508-6068 cateringbythrive.com thrivecatering@gmail.com Page 49

Posh Petals & Pearls 912-659-9590

poshpetalsandpearls.com ido@poshpetalsandpearls.com 404 E. Oglethorpe Ave. Page 33

ElonWick 912-665-3325 ElonWick.com elonwick@gmail.com

Curry Dry Cleaners 912-355-2930 1310 E. DeRenne Ave. 912-897-4595 440 Johnny Mercer Blvd. Page 61

Emily McCarthy Shoppe 912-495-5386 emilymccarthy.com 2428 Abercorn St. Page 11

SavannahIDo.com Visit Savannah 877-SAVANNAH 101 E. Bay St. Page 95

JEWELRY Levy Jewelers— Since 1900 Historic Downtown Savannah, corner of Bull and Broughton: 912-233-1163 Oglethorpe Mall: 912-238-2120 St. Johns Town Center, Jacksonville, Fla.: 904-527-2643 levyjewelers.com Back cover

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STATIONERY/ CALLIGRAPHY Ashley Curry Calligraphy 912-507-6496 ashleycurry.com Page 49

TRANSPORTATION Old Savannah Tours 912-234-8128 800-517-9007 oldsavannahtours.com Page 33

The Ballroom at the American Legion 912-233-9277/912-675-0246 alpost135.com 1108 Bull St. Page 73 Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University 912-478-1149 georgiasouthern.edu/garden 1505 Bland Ave., Statesboro (a few blocks from the main Georgia Southern University campus) Page 19

Jepson Center for the Arts 912-790-8800 telfair.org 207 W. York St. Page 20 Owens-Thomas House 912-790-8800 telfair.org 124 Abercorn St. Page 20 Savannah Quarters Country Club 912-450-2285 savannahquarterscc.com 8 Palladian Way, Pooler Page 28

Botanical Garden, Savannah Area Council of Garden Clubs & Historic Reinhard Farmhouse 912-355-3883 savannahbotanical.org 1388 Eisenhower Drive

Savannah Riverboat Cruises 800-786-6404 savannahriverboat.com 9 E. River St. Page 61

Cha Bella and Earth to Table Catering 912-227-0136 cha-bella.com 102 East Broad St. Page 83

Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum William Scarbrough House and Gardens 912-232-1511 shipsofthesea.org 41 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. (between Broughton and Congress streets)

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens 912-921-5460 coastalgeorgiabg.org 2 Canebrake Road Page 27

Telfair Academy 912-790-8800 telfair.org 121 Barnard St. Page 20

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Tybee Island Wedding Chapel and Grand Ballroom 800-786-5889 tybeeweddingchapel.com 1114 U.S. Hwy. 80, Tybee Island Inside front cover

VENUES/ ACCOMMODATIONS The DeSoto 866-990-9491 thedesotosavannah.com 15 E. Liberty St. Inside back pages The Golden Isles 800-933-2627 goldenisles.com 1505 Richmond St., 2nd Floor, Brunswick Page 5

Hotel Indigo 877-320-8458 hotelindigosavannah.com 201 W. Bay St. Page 8 Hyatt Regency Savannah 912-238-1234 savannah.hyatt.com 2 W. Bay St. Page 69 La Dolce Vita 912-786-5606 ladolcevitatybee.com 1401 Strand Ave., Tybee Island (inside Hotel Tybee)

StayInSavannah.com 912-721-6013 Page 13 The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa 912-201-2200 westinsavannah.com 1 Resort Drive Page 17 The Wyld Dock Bar 912-692-1219 thewylddockbar.com 2740 Livingston Ave. Page 93

Oceanfront Cottage Rentals 800-786-5889 oceanfrontcottage.com Page 1

fall/winter 2017-18 savannah weddings

ever after

Something Blue According to legend, the peacock’s magnificent plumage is a sign of its connection to the divine. In the case of this stunning clutch— encrusted in vivid teal, emerald and ultramarine Swarovski crystals— the beautiful bird carries a good omen of life (and love) everlasting.

TERESA EARNEST

Swarovski crystal clutch with magnetic clasp, $325 at Kathi Rich, 2515 Abercorn St., 912-236-7424

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