Spring summer 2016

Your Finest Hour 112 Pages of daring Details & bold romance

Plus:

Garden Parties, Vintage Vows, Mod Magic & 137 Luxe Local Venues

Sara D Harper 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

T YBEEWEDDINGCHAPEL.COM

Dream Wedd ing A REALITY M A K I N G YO U R

Photos by Alicja Colon

For your perfect wedding ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner, and lodging needs, look no further than The Whitman.

This exquisitely restored mansion offers nearly 5,000 square feet of elegant interiors including reception rooms, a breathtaking gourmet kitchen, luxurious bedrooms and even a stylish billiards room. You’ll find the exteriors just as inviting, with our private courtyard, and classic southern verandas. Well-appointed overnight accommodations for 12 – 16 guests including the coach house, are available for your family, friends or wedding party. At The Whitman, we’ve seen to every detail and are ready to make your wedding the day you’ve always dreamed of—PERFECT.

The Whitman, Historic Savannah, 611 Whitaker Street, Savannah, GA 31401 yourmansion@thewhitmansavannah.com |

912-704-6233

w w w. t h e w h i t m a n s a v a n n a h . c o m

Hall of

Cakes Delaney Hall Bilton & Dianna Hall

savannahshallofcakes@gmail.com 路 217 North Columbia Avenue #1 路 Rincon, GA 31326

912.826.0096 路 www.savannahshallofcakes.com book by appointment only

table of contents

JUSTIN AND AMANDA BROWN

Spring/Summer 2016 Vol. 9, No. 1

62

KELLI BOYD

KELLI BOYD

54

84

FEATURES 42 Let Them Eat Cake

Savannah’s history-steeped atmosphere is perfect for playing dress-up. A modern Marie Antoinette finds a happy ending in a styled shoot that marries sunny buttercup with serene blues.

58 Island Time

62 All Heart

50 A Bride’s-Eye View

A spirited transplant weds a seventh-generation Savannahian in a cottage by the sea. The bride shares her real-life love story.

A local couple wins guests over with a meaningful double ceremony—and a playful, personal party that beats the summer heat.

Anxious to get to the “happily ever after,” a local couple leans on a creative council of friends to coordinate a family-focused fête.

66 Two Tickets to Paradise

54 A Home Run

A couple of Savannah natives throw a boho bash on a beautiful barrier island accessible only by boat.

Visions of a tropical island give way to a sweet Savannah celebration when a destination duo learns to work together.

70 Sweet Home

A monogram, a motif and a magical mansion make for a truly breathtaking bash on historic Bluff Drive.

74 Independent Spirit

A local couple and their planner prove that a wedding doesn’t have to be D.I.Y. to be deeply personal and wildly imaginative.

Your Finest Hour 112 PAGES OF DARING DETAILS & BOLD ROMANCE

78 Rain and Shine

Despite a devastating downpour, a destination bride and groom find plenty of reasons to sparkle in Savannah.

84 A Leap of Faith

A couple takes a detour from Athens to downtown Savannah to say “I do.”

88 Discover It Yourself

A Chicago couple celebrates their connection with a glamorous garden party at bucolic Berkeley Hall.

Plus:

Garden Parties, Vintage Vows, Mod Magic & 137 Luxe Local Venues

On the Cover

Photography: Izzy Hudgins Producer/stylist: Audrey Wagner King Models: Natalie Joy and Ian McClurg, Rise Models Hair and makeup: Beyond Beautiful by Heather Gown: Bleubelle Bridal Floral design: Audrey Wagner King Location: Residence of artist Shea Slemmer

spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

9

table of contents

DEPARTMENTS 20 Something New

W E N DY N O R M A N

DONNA VON BRUENING

22

28

Meet us at the crossroads of tradition and trend—and get to know some event artists who make Savannah weddings shine.

34 Instant Inspiration

What’s new and next in wedding design? We asked local event stylists to show us their visions.

34 Paint the Town Red

Can’t choose between cool or warm colors? Marry the two with a poppy palette that’s not for the faint of heart.

36 Royal Blues

R ach A el O erther

W E N DY N O R M A N

34

Let the area’s prime plantation—along with some popular Pantone pigments—bring out your aristocratic airs.

38 Soft on Hue

36

This spring, go beyond blush and bashful. With a touch of wit and whimsy, everything is coming up roses.

92 A Place for Us

Your location may be the single most important wedding decision you make. Get the stats on venues here.

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

JUSTIN AND AMANDA BROWN

112 Ever After

38 10 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

Special Advertising Section: Page 107

92

Use the “Love List” of Savannah Weddings resources to plan your big day!

savannah venue management

Specializing in weddings, rehearsals, receptions, corporate parties and all special events.

Michelle@SavVenueManagement.com | 912-223-1926 | SavVenueManagement.com

DOW N TOW N SAVA N NA H

7 M I N U T ES F ROM DOW N TOW N SAVA N NA H

DOW N TOW N SAVA N NA H

7 M I N U T ES F ROM DOW N TOW N SAVA N NA H

publisher Michael C. Traynor 912.652.0268

general manager Anita Hagin 912.652.0293

editor Annabelle Carr 912.652.0297

art director Michelle Karner 912.652.0390

associate/digital editor Amy Paige Condon 912.652.0290

PHOTO BY DEVON DONNAHOO

graphic designers Loretta Mae Calhoun 912.525.0743 Carey Schwartzburt 912.652.0292 assistant editor/marketing associate Reilly Mesco 912.652.0315

contributing writers and editors Christen Barron, Betty Darby, Teresa Earnest, Ariel Felton, Andrea Goto, Allison Hersh, Brittany McClure, Summer Teal Simpson

contributing photographers Mackensey Alexander, Kelli Boyd, Justin and Amanda Brown, Teresa Earnest, Izzy Hudgins, Sunny S. Lee, Jade and Matthew McCully, Wendy Norman, Rachael Oerther, Lyndi and Jason Redfern

contributing stylists Andrea Gray Harper, Audrey Wagner King, Jessica Pata, Tara Skinner

* * *

director of advertising

Jane Townsend 912.652.0294

PHOTO BY IZZY HUDGINS

advertising account manager Jill Strauss 912.652.0291 senior advertising account executive Lane Linahan 912.652.0486

advertising account executives Christine Fournier 912.652.0472 Susan Walters 912.652.0490

advertising assistant Cassandra Anderson 912.652.0289

* * *

Come see why this is Savannah’s best kept secret ...

SPECIALIZING IN THE UNIQUE & UNEXPECTED FOR OVER 9 YEARS.

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

12 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

address 1375 Chatham Parkway Savannah, Georgia 31405

(mailing) P.O. Box 1088 Savannah, Georgia 31402 www.savannahweddingsmag.com

customer service/issue requests

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 © 2008-2016 by Southeastern Newspapers Company, LLC. All rights reserved. Savannah magazine and Savannah Weddings magazine are trademarks owned by Southeastern Newspapers Company, LLC.

Callie Beale Photography

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

How to Order

Reserve your copy of the next issue of Savannah Weddings, or have this issue delivered to the door of a beloved bride-to-be. Savannah Weddings makes a marvelous engagement gift!

Call 912.652.0293 or go online at savannahweddingsmag.com.

Letters to the Editor

We want to hear from you! Send your letters to the attention of the editor at P.O. Box 1088, Savannah, Ga., 31402, or editor@savannahmagazine.com. Letters must be signed and include a phone number in the event we need to contact you. (Your phone number will not be published.)

How to Submit Ideas for an Article

We are always eager to receive suggestions for stories from our readers. 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. Please do not call the editor to discuss.

How to Advertise

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!

For information about how to promote your products or services in Savannah Weddings, call 912.652.0294 or send an email to jane.townsend@savannahmag azine.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. As the area’s only bridal lifestyle magazine, Savannah Weddings delivers the refreshing inside scoop on the local experts, natural beauty, historic architecture and soulful culture that define Savannah and the nearby coast as a top wedding destination worldwide.

Splas

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Modern Romance

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Januar

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25 Years

FALL/WINTER 2015

Inspired Investments & Enlightened Design

Be thnege Cha

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The Pi peline, Ogee chee M Plastic W ar To a Cl agic & Secr s, ean Co ets ast

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School 6 201 Choice ekend & 10 We ays Getaw

Plus:

Ardsley Park Élan Historic District Chic Isle of Hope Inspiration & A Palmetto Bluff Refuge

Our Fee

Plus:

l-Good & Bac Health Gui k to Sch de, ool: By Top Dentist Kids, For Kid s s

Gigi’s Cupcakes of Savannah 5521 Abercorn St, Suite 100 • Savannah, GA 31405 (912) 349-2778 • savannahga@gigiscupcakesusa.com

14 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

A Fabulous Favor

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, call 912.652.0293.

{& DON’T} No. 1

WE DO HONEYMOONS, ENGAGEMENTS, SMALL GARDEN WEDDINGS, AND ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS…THE KIND THAT A LITTLE {&GET DON’T} CLOSER TO REALITY.

WE DO No. 2No. 1

Copyright © 2011 Presidents’ Quarters Inn. All rights reserved.

Photo © Christine Hall Photography Copyright © 2011 Presidents’ Quarters Inn. All rights reserved.

Photo © Christine Hall Photography

WE DO

PresidentsQuarters.com WEDON’T DO HONEYMOONS, WE DO 912.233.1600 or 800.233.1776 ENGAGEMENTS, IMPOSSIBLY FUSSY. SMALL Twitter @PQInnSavannahGA GARDEN WEDDINGS, AND ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS…THE KIND THAT GET A LITTLE ELEGANT WEDDINGS. CORPORATE EVENTS. TENT PARTIES. CLOSER TO REALITY.

No. 2

WE DON’T DO IMPOSSIBLY FUSSY.

PresidentsQuarters.com 912.233.1600 or 800.233.1776 Twitter @PQInnSavannahGA

Photo: Donna Von Bruening

CLEARSPAN, FRAME & POLE TENTS | TABLES, CHAIRS & BEAUTIFUL LINENS CHINA, FLATWARE & GLASSWARE | STAGING & DANCE FLOOR CHANDELIERS & SPECIALTY LIGHTING | HEAT & AIR CONDITIONING 117 WESTSIDE BLVD. POOLER | 912. 944. 6200 | WWW.RANCONTENTS.COM

editor’s letter

THE VIRTUAL VEIL They say necessity is the mother of invention. So it’s no coincidence that the engagement of our editor-in-chief, Annabelle, was followed swiftly by the launch of our new website, SavannahWeddingsMag.com.

Don’t get us wrong; nothing beats a printed tearsheet. We carry the pages around with us when we meet with vendors; some of us even tape them to our walls. Photography is richer and more rarified in print. And when an editor dedicates the fine and finite resources of paper to a given topic or expert, she confers a certain importance and authority to the subject.

After seven years as a print magazine, Savannah Weddings is now a renewable resource—a daily media outlet packed with destination-specific inspiration and resources. You’ll have access to “Only in Savannah” inside tips—and fresh ideas you can pin right to your Pinterest boards.

Oy, Veil. With a little help from lovely, little Lawson Burge of Bleubelle Bridal (and her mom, Heather), the Sav-vy Wed-itors prepare for a walk down the virtual aisle.

But the world is moving faster, so contemporary couples need more access than ever. For example, in order to snap up the perfect ceremony spot, Annabelle needed instant local venue information. She wanted more options and more ideas—hyper-local and hyper-fast. And she discovered what you already know: national and regional websites knew squat about Savannah.

That’s why, after seven years as a print magazine, SavannahWeddings is now a renewable resource—a daily media outlet packed with destination-specific inspiration and resources. In addition to our semiannual magazines—in print and at Issuu.com—you’ll find exclusive stories and interactive content at SavannahWeddingsMag.com. You’ll also have access to “Only in Savannah” inside tips—and fresh ideas you can pin right to your Pinterest boards.

Whether your Savannah destination is just down the street or a layover away, we want you to have everything you need at your fingertips—literally.

Check us out on your smartphone or tablet today. We know Annabelle will.

Warmly,

the

WED - it o r s

Amy, Annabelle, Michelle and Reilly

16 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

SAVEUR YOUR MOMENT

912.721.0574

912.721.6900

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

contributors

Brittany McClure

A Savannah native, Brittany D. McClure is an awardwinning journalist, who now works as a full-time writer, social media expert and marketing professional. She holds a B.A. in English from Valdosta State University and a M.A. in professional communication and leadership from Armstrong State University. As a freelance writer, she contributes on a variety of topics including fashion, design, personal finance and technology.

Wendy Norman

Wendy is a wedding photographer, travel addict, polka dot aficionado and snail mail enthusiast. The mossy squares of Savannah are both her home and the inspiration for Apt. B Photography.

She adores photographing love stories, and she lives for shooting weddings filled with personal touches and reach-for-a-tissue moments.

For more love stories, check out aptbphotography.com.

(843) 208-2220 HiltonHeadLakeClub.com

Imagine

Christen Barron

Christen is a Savannah native and SCAD graduate.

As an undergrad, she was convinced she had a future as a playwright. The strangest thing she’s ever written was a Christmas pageant for a local school. She now writes nonfiction and fiction. Her work has previously appeared in various literary journals, such as YARN Literary Review.

Find her around town at schools, teaching creative writing, or in cafes, drinking tea.

THE LAKE CLUB

Andrea Gray Harper

For as long as Andrea can remember, she has been an organizer and planner—and planning beautiful weddings has been the icing on the cake for this seasoned creative. Andrea strives to combine beautiful design with attention to detail so that couples can focus on what’s important: having the best day ever. A Southerner at heart—born in Atlanta and raised in Miami—Andrea now resides in Savannah with her growing family.

Justin and Amanda Brown

Meet Justin and Amanda: photographer and assistant, film enthusiast and great cook, West Elm and Crate and Barrel. Most important, they are best friends. This husband-and-wife duo make up The Happy Bloom. They specialize in fine art film photography—yes, film— creating soft, light-filled photos of intimate and joyfilled moments. See more work at thehappybloom.com.

Harborside Drive Hardeeville, SC 29927

YO U R W E D D I N G W I T H O U R BR E AT H TA K I N G V I EW.

Nestled in a tranquil setting, there is a beautiful placed called The Lake Club at Hilton Head Lakes.

18 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RACH LOVES TROY

S NNA H’ AWA R W LOR II G S SAVA NNA ING DS ESI G ER N ER S AVA AVA NNAH’ H’SS S AWA AWARD RD D WINN W IN IN N N IN IN GG F FFLORA LOR A AL L LDE DE S GN N ER S S specialize in blending culturesand and traditionsfrom from around the exceptional andand stylish designs imaginable.

We We specialize in blending cultures the world, world,ensuring ensuringthe themost most exceptional stylish designs imaginable.

We specialize in blending cultures andtraditions traditions from around around the world, ensuring the most exceptional and stylish designs imaginable.

Call or email to set up an appointment with one of our talented consultants!

Call ororemail withone oneofofour ourtalented talented consultants!

Call emailtotoset setup upan an appointment appointment with consultants!

SAVANNAH, PALMETTO BLUFF, HILTON HEAD SAVANNAH, BLUFF,HILTON HILTONHEAD HEAD SAVANNAH, PALMETTO PALMETTO BLUFF, 418 E. BROUGHTON ST. | 912.508.1166 | KATOWEDDINGS.COM | KATOFLORALDESIGNS@GMAIL.COM E. BROUGHTONST. ST.| | 912.508.1166 912.508.1166 || KATOWEDDINGS.COM KATOWEDDINGS.COM | |KATOFLORALDESIGNS@GMAIL.COM 418418 E. BROUGHTON KATOFLORALDESIGNS@GMAIL.COM

something new

spring forward

These of-the-moment ideas are perfect for your seasonal celebration in Savannah.

Compiled by Teresa Earnest and Reilly Mesco

1 Blooms

Consider loose, unstructured organic arrangements with plenty of garden-fresh details.

“We’re seeing a resurgence of greenery, decorating everything from runners to chair swags to cakes,” says Natalie McKee of A to Zinnias. “And boutonnieres have come a long way from roses— think herbs, cotton bolls and succulents.”

“Break away from traditional centerpieces,” adds James Carlson of Joann’s Florist, who suspended flower boxes from lush live oaks. “Your flowers should highlight what you love.”

20 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

2 Cakes

Mother Nature is working her magic in our sweets, too, according to Delaney Hall Bilton of Savannah’s Hall of Cakes.

“Some examples are marble and wood cakes—all edible, of course—along with sugar paste flowers and metallics. Copper, I believe, will be huge in 2016.”

“The details are where all the good stuff happens,” agrees Natasha Gaskill of A Squad Bake Shop, “be it a spectacular sugar flower or a carefully curated ingredient picked at the peak of its season.”

3 Motifs

Earthy elements also have found their way into our stationery suites—resulting in a welcome twist on tradition. Birds, botanicals, shells, antlers—and even tiny illustrated landscapes—pair eloquently with a more organic style of calligraphy for an invitation that’s as endearing as it is elegant.

Savannah is an outdoor environment yearround—so make the most of it with a motif that plays up your presence in paradise. Even if your vows take place behind closed doors, your design can be open to the elements.

The Naturals. Clockwise from opposite left: James Carlson for Joann’s Florist, photographed by Teresa Earnest; Savannah’s Hall of Cakes, photographed

by Britt Croft; Lowcountry Paper Co., photographed by Teresa Earnest; Emily McCarthy Designs, photographed by Teresa Earnest; A to Zinnias, photographed by Tec Petaja; Savannah’s Hall of Cakes, photographed by Wings of Glory; A Squad Bake Shop, photographed by Izzy Hudgins

spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

21

something new

MEET THE florist Vicki Sepielli Floral designer/owner, Kiwi Fleur Inc. Love Song: “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran Sweet Spot: The Georgia State Railroad Museum—there are a variety of locations within the museum, making it a unique setting. << Best Shot: The bride really wanted this upsidedown arrangement, but she wanted it to be much, much larger than we could actually build. We built a structure that was 6 feet long by 2 feet wide. We had to have the flowers in water but keep them light enough to suspend them in a tent.

Meet/Greet: A wedding planner is crucial. Anne Bone of Anne Bone Events is a native Savannahian who has access to many venues that brides don’t always see.

DONNA VON BRUENING

Try This: Cascade bouquets are making a comeback.

The “picked from the garden” look is very popular right now. Also, have different centerpiece styles—it creates interest in the reception space.

Don’t Miss: Trolley tours that take you to Isle of Hope, Bluff Drive and Wormsloe Plantation can give you a different view of our beautiful city.

a click

away

Destination weddings are so worth it—until a loved one can’t make it. That’s when Bonnie Karr of First City Events books a high-tech ticket.

“For example, a British groom’s absent guests recorded their toasts on a video, which we played on a big screen at the Olde Pink House,” she explains. “For a Daufuskie Island wedding, the bride’s stepfather was too ill to make the trip, so someone Skyped him in with an iPad. One couple even streamed their wedding live online.”

22 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

savannah smarts

W Eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; V E E X PA N D E D

Host your special day in our newly remodeled space.

325 E. Bay St. (corner of Bay and Habersham) 912.233.1319 | bmatthewseatery.com Mon-Sat 8am-10pm | Sun Brunch 9am-3pm

whimsical + romantic wedding photographer aptbphotography@gmail.com

@aptbphoto

aptbphotography.com

facebook.com/aptbphoto

something new

MEET THE makeup artist Jessica Shefsick Owner and Makeup Artist, Bride’s Side Beauty Love Song: “Baby I Love Your Way” by Peter Frampton Sweet Spot: The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, in Bluffton, South Carolina, has a waterfront chapel, quaint cottages for guests, and ancient oaks draped with Spanish moss. It’s a dream destination. << Best Shot: I really appreciate it when photographers get close-ups of the bride. I was married at 22, so I know from experience that the bride will treasure the memory of being young and beautiful.

Meet/Greet: Tara Skinner from Posh Petals and Pearls was the first to welcome me into the Savannah wedding market, and I will never forget that. This lady knows everything about weddings and choosing great vendors.

Try This: I love it when brides match one of their accent colors with their makeup. The end result looks cohesive and coordinated.

Don’t Miss: Time with your parents. Sadly, they seem to get the least of the couple’s attention.

Schedule time to share special moments.

River Street

hip to

24 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

Oglethorpe Avenue

East Broad Street

Liberty Street

Bull St.

Bachelorette or wedding party? You’ve come to the right place. Savannah is the home of the to-go cup or “traveler,” a plastic cup 16 oz. or smaller that allows us to enjoy our alcohol alfresco. Just be sure your guests follow the liquid law of the land. Between Jones Street and the Savannah River in our Historic District, anyone 21 or older can legally imbibe outdoors. Carouse carefully—perhaps with a craft cocktail in hand.

Broughton St.

Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

the sip

savannah smarts

Bay Street

Jones Street

N Forsyth Park

WHERE ROMANCE AND CHARM SET TH E M OOD FOR LOVE Celebrate Your Wedding Ceremony, Reception, Rehearsal Dinner, or Bridal Shower At Andaz Savannah For more information please contact the Hotel’s Sales & Catering Department at: SAVRD.rfp@hyatt.com or +1 912 233 2116

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something new

MEET THE baker Abby Longwater Owner, Wicked Cakes of Savannah Love Song: “Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls Sweet Spot: The Mackey House is one of my favorite places in Savannah.

Whether you want an intimate dinner or a garden party wedding, they have the most magnificent house to celebrate in. << Best Shot: This is a cake for a very unique bride.

It’s a four-tier gothic cake with elements of gold leaf, sugar roses, peony and leaves. The inspiration for this cake was a wedding ceremony in a cemetery.

Meet/Greet: James Carlson, from Carlson’s Premier Events and Joann’s Florist, will always get the party started. He is a planner, designer and entertainer.

His business is known for custom designs and outstanding attention to detail.

CALLIE BEALE

Try This: Sugar flowers are making a comeback, and they can turn even a simple white wedding cake into an elegant art piece that will be the talk of the night.

Don’t Miss: A carriage ride, while listening to the history of Savannah.

let us

spray

Bugs are the uninvited guests at any shindig in the Southland, but we’ve got their number. A local blend called No Natz fends off Savannah’s biting sand gnats, and aromatherapeutic Buzz Away attracts humans but repels our itchy enemies. You’ll find both at Brighter Day Natural Foods on Forsyth Park. To minimize the sting, schedule your waterfront events to avoid dusk, and have your outdoor space zapped a few days ahead of time.

26 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

savannah smarts

ALWA YS LOOK AT TH E B R ID E’S S IDE !

ALWA YS LOOK AT TH E B R ID E’S S IDE !

A LWAY S LOOK AT TH E B R ID E’S S IDE !

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something new

know your

lace

The traditional veil is making a comeback—thanks in part

to local designer and Parsons graduate Nicole Young, who shows us three iconic styles from her Adele Amelia label.

M O D E L : B L A I R W A G N E R O F H A L O M O D E L S A N D T A L E N T G R O U P ; H air and M akeup : J ules M o re T han M akeup / D resses : B leubelle B ridal ; I v o ry and B eau B o uti q ue / L o cati o n : T he Olde P ink H o use

By Reilly Mesco | Photography by Wendy Norman

The Birdcage. Equal parts sassy and sweet,

a birdcage veil gives you all the pretty without the commitment of a full-length veil. It’s a chic choice for playful parties and waterfront soirees. “Grace”

glimmer ivory tulle birdcage with Venice lace and pearls, $140 at Ivory and Beau

The Juliet Cap. Kate Moss chose this face-framing style for her classically gorgeous English

countryside wedding in 2011, and its bucolic beauty has been steadily gaining popularity ever since.

“Scarlett” ivory tulle Juliet cap veil, $275 at Ivory and Beau

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The Mantilla. Tradition never goes out of style, and what could be more classic than a floor-length Spanish shawl? It’s perfect for vows at the dreamy Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. “Francesca” Chantilly lace veil with Alencon lace border (cathedral length), $875 at Ivory and Beau ivoryandbeau.com

something new

f r o m “ w i l l yo u ? ” to

“I Do”

We last saw local sweethearts Courtney and Corey Zidow in the November issue of Savannah magazine, when we covered their cute engagement at The Coffee Fox. Reilly Mesco finds out what happened next. Photography by Izzy Hudgins

Good on Paper: They met with event designer and planner Audrey Wagner King, who created a custom suite of paper goods for the big day. She handcrafted festive swizzle sticks for drinks and designed coordinating place, table and menu cards.

Right on Track: The couple chose the vintage, versatile Georgia State Railroad Museum as the backdrop for their vows and reception.

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A Cut Above: The groom chose several coordinated fabrics, which Audrey used to craft custom ties and pocket squares. The remnants became a breezy backdrop for the place cards.

Venue: Georgia State Railroad Museum Event planning, styling and florals: French Knot Studios Gown: Bleubelle Bridal Hair and Makeup: Beyond Beautiful

by Heather Catering: Thrive DJ: All About You Entertainment Vintage rentals: Savannah Vintage Rentals

Shine On: “Courtney and Corey said I could do anything other than glitter,” laughs the sparkle-savvy Audrey. “I substituted mercury glass to keep it pretty but not over the top.” She scattered bright blooms in various vessels—including glamorous goblets—for the perfect pop of color and shine.

Good Eats: “Their families are from Ohio, so Courtney and Corey really wanted to give them a taste of the South,” Audrey says of the locally sourced menu. “Thrive’s corn soufflé with pulled pork and braised collard greens, a fried chicken and waffle appetizer, hummingbird cupcakes and candied bacon.”

Screen Queen: Audrey created a multifunctional hand-painted screen that doubled as a ceremony backdrop and reception photo booth. spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

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Photography by Shannon Zaller, ShortPhotographer

The Ballroom at the

American Legion

A SPECTACULAR WAY TO MAKE YOUR EVENT HISTORIC !!!

Designed in 1914 by architect Hyman Wallace Witcover as the Chatham Artillery Armory, this historic site rests on the south side of picturesque Forsyth Park. The Ballroom at the American Legion is a large open space that can seat up to 250 guests and has a stage that can accommodate up to a 14 piece band. The Ballroom also has a full service bar staffed with experienced bartenders.

1108 Bull St., Savannah GA 31401 • (912) 675-0246 • ALPOST135.com • eventsatthelegion@gmail.com • Find us on FACEBOOK

www..com

Vivid 

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

m. newsom photography

paint the town RED Can’t choose between cool or warm

colors? Designer Jessica Pata marries the two with a poppy palette that’s not for the faint of heart. Photography by Wendy Norman

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1. Certain Spheres

Surprise your guests with miniature floating orbs of flowers, rather than spaceconsuming centerpieces.

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2. Sweet Art

Make your cake the center of attention with a custom monogram and delicate watercolor-like detailing.

Top with handmade fondant blooms and you’ve got the most photogenic confection around.

spring /summer 2016

3. Crimson Kiss

Bold hues are perfect for a wedding in warmer months like May and June (see also: almost every other month in Savannah)—so Jessica Pata jumped at the chance to create a beautifully bright shoot with Pantone’s fiery Fiesta Red and cool aqua Limpet Shell.

“I love these colors—and I’m always totally down to do something bold,” laughs Jessica, who sprinkled gold accents throughout the scene for a stunning springtime shoot in the garden at the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum.

Matching your lips to your flowers may not always be the best option, but when you’ve got a bouquet of gorgeous scarlet poppies, bright lipstick is a must. Just make sure a bridesmaid is carrying a tube for quick touch-ups!

4. I Scream

Call on local vendors, like Jenny’s Treats on the Street, to bring in non-traditional or nostalgic experiences for your guests. Even if a vendor doesn’t normally do weddings, it never hurts to ask.

5. On Paper

There’s no need for a live butterfly to come zooming out when your guests open your invitation. Simple can be super—think chic, classic invites on gorgeous ivory paper.

Inspiration Shoot

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Design: Jessica Pata, House of Pata Photography: Wendy Norman, Apt. B Photography Desserts: Jenniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Treats on the Street Placesettings: Pretty Vintage Event Rentals Cake: Wicked Cakes Flowers: Julie Driscoll, Garden on the Square Stationery: Lowcountry Paper Co. Hair and Makeup: Royal Hair and Makeup Rentals: Savannah Vintage Rentals Attire: Bleubelle Bridal Models: Olive and Victor Valentin Location: Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum

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Inspiration Shoot

royal blues Inspired by the area’s prime plantation, designer Tara Skinner takes the lead on a styled scene fit for a duke and duchess.

We Southerners love tradition, and the classics are hard to beat—especially with Richmond Hill’s stately Ford Plantation as a breathtaking backdrop.

Working with Pantone’s updated navy, Snorkel Blue, and the versatile Iced Coffee, Tara and her team at Posh Petals and Pearls created a styled shoot that would make the Duchess of Cambridge proud. Blue-and-white china motifs shone against a backdrop of lush white roses and a sweeping plantation lawn.

“Since this color scheme is very rich and classic, we decided to take it in a regal direction,” says Tara. “Hannah, one of our lead planners, found an old picture of John F. and Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding day, and it served as inspiration.”

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Photography by Rachael Oerther

1. Prime Paper

Your invitation suite introduces your guests to the tone of your wedding.

A monogram and floral motifs keep with custom, while a golden response envelope brings you up-to-date.

2. A Modest Proposal

Ever since Kate Middleton wore a demure lace gown on her wedding day, more coverage has been here to stay.

Keep your look simple with a classic updo and your grandmother’s pearls.

3. Shrouded in Mystery

Ancient Greeks said veils kept away bad spirits, so where’s the harm in giving tradition a try? A chapel-length ivory veil—with an asymmetrical hem to keep it interesting—elevates your look.

4. Crowning Glory

Delicate china finds the perfect complement in shiny gold chargers, Iced Coffee linens, white blooms and a mix of vintage and Chiavari chairs.

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Design: Posh Petals and Pearls Photography: Rachael Oerther, Rach Loves Troy Florist: August Florals Cake: Lowcountry Confections Food: J. Thomas Catering China: Lillianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s China Paper styling: Emily McCarthy Rentals: Savannah Special Events and Savannah Vintage Rentals Location: The Ford Plantation Attire: Ivory and Beau; Simonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Formal Wear Hair and Makeup: Eve Capecelatro, B Street Salon Models: Taylor Stanfield and Matt Hollingsworth

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1

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soft on hue

Go beyond blush and bashful. Andrea Gray Harper proves that, with a touch of wit and whimsy, everything comes up roses.

Can’t get enough of pink? This year, you’re not alone. We asked designer Andrea Gray Harper to pair Pantone’s 2016 color of the year, Rose Quartz, with Peach Echo and her own eponymous gray for a fresh fantasy fête full of modern bridal inspiration.

“I really like the way the soft lilac gray added a little twist to the ever-common spring colors. Modern was the key theme,” Andrea reflects. “From our venue at the Brice Hotel to the place card holders and even the groom’s attire, we wanted each element to be versatile.

The gray adds a grown-up feel.”

Photography by Justin and Amanda Brown

1. Shades of Yay

Andrea loved the way Rose Quartz and Peach Echo interacted with one another, so she incorporated Constance, Juliet and Romantic Antike garden roses into an ombre arrangement.

“The centerpieces and the bride’s bouquet were designed from light to dark, with rose fading into peach,” she notes.

2. Dapper Darling

Southern gentlemen never shy away from “girly” colors—witness the ubiquitous pastel bowtie and salmon polo shirt—so why should a wedding change the tone?

Flip the switch on boring menswear with a rosy jacket atop more somber slacks.

Inspiration Shoot

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Design: Andrea Gray Harper, Gray Harper Event Maker Photography: The Happy Bloom Location: The Brice, a Kimpton Hotel Florals: Gray Harper Event Maker Paper goods: Lowcountry Paper Co. Cake: Wicked Cakes Hair and makeup: Marie Bramlett, Wicked Lulu Attire: Sareh Nouri gown Linen rentals: Nuage Designs Jewelry: Trumpet and Horn Place card holders: Esselle Models: Natalie Butler and Daniel Eastwood

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3. True Dove

A dreamy tulle gown feels au courant when it’s worn in a darker shade. Don’t be afraid to stray from snowy white if something less traditional catches your eye.

4. Love You Fur-ever

Include your pup in the proceedings—or at least in the pictures! Ask your florist to design a garland in your wedding colors for a full family portrait.

5. Table for Two

A sparkly graphite table runner, paired with pale pink linens and rustic wood chargers, makes for a healthy mix of modern and feminine.

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R E D B L U F F P L A N T A T I O N Sebrell Smith Designer Events is delighted to introduce Red Bluff Plantation.

This Lowcountry gem operates as a private event venue nestled along the New River, just 11 miles from downtown Savannah.

Red Bluff epitomizes Lowcountry elegance with its breaktaking river views, vast grounds, majestic oaks draped in Spanish moss, complete with a barn and picturesque pastures.

Contact Sebrell and her team for more information about this picturesque location!

www.sebrellsmith.com

912-604-6852

info@sebrellsmith.com

Savannah’s Preferred Wedding Gown and Formal Wear Cleaners for 70 Years!

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Let Them

Eat

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Cake

Designed and produced by: French Knot Studios Photography by: Izzy Hudgins Photography Cake: A Squad Bake Shop Rentals: Savannah Vintage Rentals Models: Natalie Joy and Ian McClurg, Rise Models Bride’s attire: Bleubelle Bridal Groom’s attire: Stylist’s own Hair and makeup: Beyond Beautiful

by Heather Jewelry: Zia Couture Stationery: Miss Wyolene China: Lillian’s China Location: The residence of artist Shea Slemmer

Feeling a flair for the dramatic?

Savannah’s history-steeped atmosphere is perfect for playing dress-up. A modern Marie Antoinette finds a happy ending in a styled shoot that marries sunny buttercup with serene blue.

We Love Hue.

Gone are the days of white on white—and soft-but-stunning tints are very Versailles. A golden veil highlights the pale lavender of this Hayley Paige gown.

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China Doll. Inspired by the aristocratic theme, pastry artist Natasha Gaskill’s classic cake mirrors the look of gorgeous Delft blue pottery.

Love Letters.

A custom stationery suite from Miss Wyolene captures the magic of the event— and the curiosity of guests—long before the big day.

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Blue Valentine. Southern grooms take note: a cerulean suit beats the heat much better than a black tuxâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and it looks cool, tooâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but the key is to keep both the silhouette and material simple. Think linen or cotton, not velvet or silk.

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Bold and Beautiful.

Everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seen your engagement ring by now, so dare to delight with a playful cocktail ring and clever costume earrings.

Glitter Bug.

Coming or going, sparkly straps elevate your bridal gown from sweet to stunning.

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Swan Princess.

Though a statement swan headpiece may not be for every bride, shoulder-dusting chandelier earrings, seen all over the spring runways, are a trend anyone can try.

Fashion Plate. Eclectic, elegant settings from Lillianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s China get a whimsical lift from fresh floral cascades and fabric butterflies.

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A Brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-Eye

View

A spirited transplant weds a seventh-generation Savannahian in a cottage by the sea. The bride, Summer Teal Simpson Hitch, shares her real-life love story.

Photography by Jade and Matthew McCully

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We’d met before, out and about in Savannah. But Jim Hitch and I first took note of one another in January 2013, when he stopped in to visit my new roommate—who just happened to be his lifelong friend. By late March, our romance was in full bloom. A month later, we were spending every available moment together.

Soft-hearted and strong, Jim is a seventh-generation Savannahian.

Because of his deep roots, he introduced me to a side of this tranquil city I’d never known, even after living here nearly a decade. In him, I knew I’d found a special partner.

In 2014, we traveled to London to spend Christmas with Jim’s sister and her family, who lived just outside the city. We extended our overseas travels through the New Year. On December 29, amid a whiteout blizzard eclipsing stunning mountain views of Innsbruck, Austria, Jim got down on one knee in Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse Square and asked me to be his wife.

A Poetic Setting Even with that beautiful backdrop and familial connection, we could imagine only our beloved Georgia coast as the place to make our promises before family and friends.

A month prior to our engagement, we’d traveled with my best friend, her husband and their daughter southward to Jekyll Island for the annual Christmas tree-lighting celebration. They showed us Crane Cottage, where they had married nine years earlier. As we traversed the island, I admitted to Jim that I thought Jekyll would be a great place to get married. As he nodded in agreement, I couldn’t have known that he already had the ring.

You can’t marry a seventh-generation Savannahian in Savannah.

Think of the guest list! So we took it an hour south to Jekyll—near enough for the many people traveling from home, but far enough to capture that destination feel. And we chose October, so that we could hold every event outdoors.

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We (selfishly) wanted our friends and family to spend more than an evening with us; we wanted them for a weekend. We held a welcome party by the pool on Thursday and invited every guest to the Friday night rehearsal dinner on the front lawn, which my mother-in-law planned to perfection. In doing so, we got to spend as much time as we could with all of our favorite people. Crane Cottage overlooks the Marshes of Glynn— the stuff of poetry—and as the sun set on our wedding day, my groom and I stood near the reflecting pond with family and friends surrounding us, bathed in the glorious orange light of sunset.

Many Blessings Across from the garden where we were married sits Faith Chapel, a picturesque, turn-of-the-century meeting house. It was too small for the ceremony, but we intended for it to serve a special role in our wedding day. We asked my stepfather, who is in seminary, to perform a traditional Anglican prayer. The blessing ceremony was emotional and intimate, with only our immediate families and our best man and matron of honor in attendance. Our “first look” was when I walked down that chapel aisle, and the blessing calmed our nerves for the ceremony to come, out in the Crane Cottage garden.

We chose four little ladies as flower girls, and they stole the show by adding more joy and whimsy to the occasion, dressed as they were in sweet gowns and crowned with precious flower garlands. Their mothers, my dearest friends and attendants, had a great time getting ready with their daughters, and the girls took their roles in the procession very seriously. All of my favorite pictures are with them.

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The big day: Saturday, Oct. 10, 2015 Palette: Pale neutrals with touches of mauve Planning time: 9 months Guests: 150 Rehearsal: Front lawn at Crane Cottage, Jekyll Island Ceremony: Garden at Crane Cottage Reception: Courtyard at Crane Cottage Planner /event designer: Bride with assistance from Cates Mock and Jessica Shell, Jekyll Island Club; mother of the groom planned and executed the rehearsal dinner Officiant: Family friend Wilson Barmeyer Ceremony music: Violin and cello, Jacksonville Strings Gown: Watters “Kerry” gown, Bleubelle Bridal Accessories: Late-maternal grandmother’s engagement ring and lavaliere diamond pendant, borrowed from aunt; mother’s vintage broach, affixed to the front of bridal bouquet; Stuart Weitzman heels; diamond tennis bracelet, Levy Jewelers; pearl alligator-leather clutch, Satchel; mid-length butterscotch veil and blusher, Bleubelle Bridal Hair and makeup: Ashley Edenfield, The Back Porch Salon & Spa, St. Simons Island Bridesmaids’ dresses: JoannaAugust.com, various styles of long chiffon dresses in “All Tomorrow’s Parties” shade Groom/groomsmen’s attire: Calvin Klein, Men’s Wearhouse Catering: Jekyll Island Club Hotel Reception music: DJ Patrick Rogers, a friend from Colorado Florist: Michele Mikulec, Madame Chrysanthemum Cake: Jekyll Island Club Hotel Rentals: Jekyll Island Club Hotel Photographer: Jade and Matthew McCully, Jade and Matthew Take Pictures, jadeandmatthew.com

Petal Pushers I am a fatal minimalist. Subtle and sophisticated gowns by Joanna August and floral arrangements by Madame Chrysanthemum complemented this elegant, historic venue, which needed little adornment to shine. The pale neutral palette and pops of mauve were chosen to capture the romance and luxury of the Victorian-era Jekyll Island Club Hotel. Verdant floral garlands perfectly suited the long reception tables arranged beneath the Crane courtyard loggia. Elsewhere, arrangements of magnolia leaves and blooms, assembled by my mother-in-law and her friends, and an abundance of vintage hydrangeas, collected and dried by my mother, only enhanced the lush setting.

Those same dried hydrangeas decorate our Ardsley Park home today—a loving reminder of our cottage by the sea. S spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

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real weddings

a home run

A local couple wins guests over with a meaningful double ceremony—and a playful, personal party that beats the summer heat.

By Ariel Felton | Photography by Justin and Amanda Brown

When David Cutlip and Christine Tsoi got engaged, Christine was a little busy. She was about to open her new restaurant, Splendid Shabu, in neighboring Pooler.

“I am very much a DIY-type of girl,” Christine says. “But I was working 12-hour days, seven days a week, and I didn’t have much time to dedicate to wedding planning.”

However, the couple’s 18-month engagement gave Christine the leeway she needed to research and book the major vendors—starting with the rural location on Savannah’s outskirts.

Farm Fresh “We loved that the Mackey House included so much in their venue fee, and the staff was so helpful through the whole planning process,” Christine says of the Red Gate Farm house just off Chatham Parkway.

“The ceremony and reception space was perfect for our 150 guests— mostly from out of town.”

Christine, a longtime fan of neutrals, worked with event designer Joshua Grotheer to match the outdoor scenery of the Mackey House

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Christine & David Season: Summer Palette: Ivory, cream and gold Planning time: 14 months Guests: 150 Ceremony and Reception: The Mackey House

Pop-tail Hour. David and Christine wanted a wedding so fun that people would forget about Savannah’s intense summer heat.

Skipping the traditional cocktail hour, the couple treated their guests to popsicles from King of Pops. Nonalcoholic flavors included chocolate sea salt and banana pudding, while John Daly vodka pops and frozen blackberry mojitos offered a spirited twist.

In the Ball Park. When David and Christine first met, his invitation to a first date at a baseball game went famously awry. “Do you like hot dogs?” he nervously blurted out—and a romance was born. To commemorate their meeting, the couple served mini hot dogs and chips as tasty appetizers, reinforcing an easy, festive atmosphere. spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

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real weddings

with a natural palette of pale whites, rich greens, shimmering golds and burnished wooden accents. Against that softer backdrop, however, she staged a stunning second ceremony in scarlet.

Our Cup of Tea The bride wanted her big day to pay tribute to her family’s Hong Kong heritage. After the first ceremony, Christine quickly changed out of her white gown and into a traditional red cheongsam for the Chinese tea ceremony.

During this timeless and elegant ritual, the bride and groom knelt and served tea to Christine’s parents. It was a deeply meaningful way to show respect to their elders and to commemorate a change in familial relationship.

The deep red couch, tray and tea set added the perfect complement to the wedding’s neutral palette. Bamboo fans, placed on each seat, helped guests keep cool between ceremonies.

A Cool Reception With their vows said and their respects paid, the couple kicked up their heels with their fun-loving guests at a sweet, simple party filled with summer treats and dancing feet. S

Dancing Shoes.

Before the father-daughter dance, Christine changed out of her gold heels and into gold wedge sneakers. It soon became apparent why the shoe change was needed. After a few minutes of traditional dancing, Christine and her father broke out into a choreographed “whip” and “nae nae” routine, to the delight of everyone in attendance.

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The big day: Saturday, July 18, 2015 Event designer: Joshua Grotheer Designs Rehearsal dinner: Private, family-owned restaurant Ceremony music: Dave Gibson Gown: Handmade by family friend in Hong Kong Accessories: Shoes, Gianni Bini Hair and makeup: Beyond Beautiful By Heather Bridesmaids’ dresses: LuLu’s Groom/groomsmen’s attire: Calvin Klein Catering: King of Pops, Magnolia Grill Reception music: Dave Gibson Florist: Joshua Grotheer Designs Cake: Baker’s Pride Rentals: Ultra Pom Videographer: Brandon Zauche Videography Invitations: Wedding Paper Divas Photographer: Justin and Amanda Brown, The Happy Bloom, thehappybloom.com

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island time

A couple of Savannah natives throw a boho bash on a beautiful barrier island accessible only by boat.

By Brittany D. McClure | Photography by Sunny S. Lee

Megan & Chris

Season: Fall Palette: Pink, gray, white and gold Planning time: 7 months Guests: 180 Ceremony: First Union African Baptist Church Reception: Haig Point

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real weddings

What do Savannahians do when we want a destination wedding without a trip to the airport? We boat to Daufuskie Island, of course.

Nestled in between Savannah and Hilton Head, Daufuskie Island, South Carolina, is a rural barrier island full of Southern comforts. For Megan Anderson and Chris Yarbrough, it was the ideal setting for their their beautiful, bohemian “I do.”

“It was a laidback downhome wedding,” explains Megan, who worked with the Savannah planners at Posh Petals and Pearls to pull together an elegant, effortless escape.

Both Savannah natives, Megan and Chris are no strangers to island life. Megan grew up summering on Daufuskie, and Chris proposed in the Bahamas.

Casual and Comfy Megan and Chris are a carefree pair, and they definitely wanted their wedding to reflect that sentiment. The couple hosted various celebrations leading up to the big day—including a Lowcountry boil and an all-day beach party—before classing it up at the Melrose Beach Club for the rehearsal dinner and after-party.

The wedding day was a reflection of Megan’s personality, with a downhome, Southern ceremony in the humble, historic First Union African Baptist Church. A chic reception at Haig Point followed. And,

In Bloom. When Megan said she wanted flowers everywhere, she meant everywhere. Hydrangeas, English roses, peonies and more festooned the blooming archway at the ceremony, the garland-adorned curtains at the reception, and the heads of each and every bridesmaid and flower girl.

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real weddings

in true Daufuskie fashion, the evening ended with a shindig at Marshside Mama’s Cafe, the local restaurant and bar.

“At that point, I changed into a short, fun dress with blinged out Converses,” says Megan.

Just Say Yes When you’re getting married on an island that can only be accessed by boat, wedding logistics can become a bit of a challenge. Persistence was Megan’s secret to success.

“Don’t let anyone tell you no; just go to the next person that will tell you yes,” she advises other brides.

This “can-do” attitude is how Megan managed to bring the couple’s truck over on a barge—and commissioned custom cornhole boards with paintings of the Savannah River.

“We had a lot of people tell us certain things would be impossible,” says Megan. “You just have to throw out the book—along with what everyone else tells you to do.” S

A Little Squeeze. Prior to the ceremony, guests enjoyed pink lemonade from an old-fashioned lemonade stand just outside of the church, adorned with paper fans and a lemon-themed floral arrangement.

Carting Around.

The only way to Daufuskie is by boat, and golf carts are the preferred means of on-island transportation. This made for an unforgettable exit along an old dirt road—complete with a “Just Married” banner and beer cans.

The big day: Saturday, August 22, 2015 Planner/event designer: Posh Petals and Pearls Officiant: Pastor Derwood Poole Rehearsal Dinner: Melrose Beach Club Ceremony music: The Company Band and bagpiper Bill Nutall Gown: Vienna by Hayley Paige, Ivory and Beau Accessories: Myra Callan “Twigs and Honey” jeweled crown and Jimmy Choo shoes Hair: Lindsay Shuman and Whitney Fritts Makeup: Lindsey Wirht Bridesmaids’ dresses: Johanna August Reception music: The Company Band Cocktail Hour Music: Trae Gurley Florist: A Floral Affair Cake: Signes Bakery Ice Sculptures: Ice Age Sculptures Catering: Haig Point Praline Chef: Savannah Candy Kitchen Rentals: Linens, A Floral Affair Lighting: JLK Events Transportation: Haig Point Bus Videographer: Withers Films Photo Booth Backdrop and Programs: J Leslie Wedding Décor Photographer: Sunny Lee Photography, southernbackwoods.com/sunnyleephoto

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Ceremonies & Receptions Rehearsal Dinners Groom’s Golf Outings Corporate Retreats SavannahQuartersCC.com

Contact TARA O’SULLIVAN to start planning your event today!

(912) 450-2285

The Melting Pot of Savannah is the most unique destination for bridal showers, bachelorette parties and rehearsal dinners.

BRIDE EATS FREE for parties of 7 of more guests enjoying a 4-course experience

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED 232 E. BROUGHTON ST., SAVANNAH, GA 31401 (912) 349-5676 • MELTINGPOT.COM

Courtney & Tim

Season: Fall Palette: Blush Planning time: 1 month Guests: 50 for ceremony, 175 for reception Ceremony: Isle of Hope Methodist Church Reception: The Oglethorpe Club

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real weddings

all heart

Anxious to get to the “happily ever after,” a local couple leans on a creative council of friends to coordinate a family-focused fête.

By Andrea Goto | Photography by Kelli Boyd

Few couples would let their guests’ availability determine their wedding date. Even fewer would accommodate them by planning a wedding in only one month. But then again, Courtney Victor, the owner of Glow MedSpa, and Tim Steigner, a Boatswains Mate Second Class in the U.S. Coast Guard, are not your average couple.

As parents to a 10-month old daughter, Reese, the couple wanted their wedding to be about people, not pomp.

“We’re at a point in our lives where we want to focus more on the friendships that we have and the people who have made us who we are,” explains Courtney.

The bride admits there was a time in her life when she might have agonized over seating charts and debated the merits of tulle vs. toile—but not anymore.

“I wasn’t interested, which is a big testament to how a child changes you,” she laughs. “The old Courtney would’ve been a total diva.”

So how does someone undeterred by details manage to pull off a stunning wedding in just four weeks? With a lot of help from her friends.

Tote Sweet. Out-of-town guests were given hand-lettered and beribboned tote bags, designed by the Wedding Chicks. The bags were filled with sweet cookies and savory cheddar biscuits from Byrd Cookie Co., along with a custom-made program by Emily McCarthy that suggested local shops and eateries to visit throughout the wedding weekend.

Decisions, Decisions. Turning the design details over to a skilled wedding expert was essential to pulling the wedding together—and to maintaining the bride and groom’s sanity. “It gave me confidence to know that this person with such an amazing sense of style and discernment was making the decisions,” Courtney explains. “That allowed us to focus on being a family, instead of getting wrapped up in things that aren’t as much of a priority for us.” spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

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real weddings

The big day: Saturday, November 21, 2015 Event planner: Tricia Windom, Isle of Hope Methodist Event designer: Abby Larson Rehearsal dinner: Home of Meredith and Reed Dulany Officiant: Pastor Mike Ricker Ceremony music: Mandy Madson and Nancy Vogelsang Gown: Romona Keveza, Bleubelle Bridal Hair: Hair, Jincy Botwinksi at Salon Eden Makeup: Glow MedSpa Bridesmaids’ dresses: Bleubelle Bridal Groom/groomsmen’s attire: J Parker Limited Catering: Susan Mason Reception music: Phong Dang Florist: John Davis Florist and Beaucoup de Bouquets Cake: Molly Stone Rentals: Ranco Rentals Calligraphy: Ashley Curry Transportation: Old Town Trolley Co. Photographer: Kelli Boyd, Kelli Boyd Photography, kelliboydphotography.com

Pick a Dress.

“I told my bridesmaids that they could wear whatever they wanted,” says Courtney, “but just to pick something in blush, pink or gold.”

Nonetheless, the ladies and the designer conspired to achieve a perfect palette and a gorgeous assortment of silhouettes and hues.

Mad Props. “We just really wanted to dance—and encourage our guests to have so much fun,” says Courtney. At the DJ-driven dance party, attendees were treated to an assortment of glow sticks, glow-in-the-dark glasses, tambourines and hats.

Smooth Moves. To signal the transition from the upstairs cocktail hour at The Oglethorpe Club to the downstairs dance floor, a bagpipe player escorted the bride and groom and their guests. At the end of the reception, a carriage ushered the wedding party to the local late-night haunt, McDonough’s, while the bride and groom escaped to be at home with their daughter.

“She texted with me every hour of every day, planning the entire thing,” Courtney says, grateful for Abby’s skilled support.

Best Friends Forever As a well-connected Savannahian and local business owner, the bride has her relationships to thank for expediting her detailed and personal party. For example, the cake was made by beloved baker Molly Stone, who used to carpool to school with Courtney. The invitations were printed in only four days by Debbie Lewis, a close family friend and the owner of La Paperie.

“Every vendor we used was also invited to the reception because they weren’t just vendors; they were friends,” Courtney enthuses. “That was how we felt about it—it was a community event where we loved all the people involved.”

One friend was particularly indispensable. Abby Larson, the creative genius behind the wildly popular wedding-design blog Style Me Pretty—and, as luck would have it, one of the bride’s best friends from college—offered to handle all of the decision-making surrounding the design.

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All in the Family With the finer details in the expert hands of friends, Courtney and Tim were able to focus on family.

They were particularly concerned about how to integrate their daughter into the ceremony in a way that was both meaningful and fitting for a child.

“We never want her to feel it was weird that she was at her parents’ wedding,” Courtney explains.

Ultimately, they decided that Tim and baby Reese would walk down the aisle together.

“It was about Tim showing Reese how much he loves her and how we all are a family now,” says Courtney. “We felt that would override any confusion she might have”—celebrating not only the union of the couple, but also the start of a family. S

Put the ‘WOW’ factor in your country wedding At Mossy Oak Farm, a spectrum of picturesque photo opportunities are available for creating beautiful memories of your special day – wedding, birthday, anniversary, family reunions. Mossy Oak Farm has two perfect venues! Both offering their own pavillion for dining and dancing.

• Barn with grazing horses

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684 WILSON ROAD, BROOKLET, GA | 912.678.4748 | MOSSYOAKFARMWEDDINGS.COM

real weddings

TWO TICKETS TO

PARADISE

Visions of a tropical island give way to a sweet Savannah celebration when a destination duo learns to work together.

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By Andrea Goto | Photography by Lyndi and Jason Redfern

Minnesota couple Sarah and Ryan Wiegel’s Savannah destination wedding began with a compromise.

Sarah imagined feeling the sand between her toes and the ocean breeze in her hair at a casual island ceremony.

“I wanted to do a tropical destination wedding,” she explains. “But Ryan wanted our families to be able to drive to our wedding and not fly.”

Together, the couple hit the Internet, searching for coastal wedding sites that would be easily accessible by car.

“If we wanted to make people travel for our wedding, we knew it had to be somewhere super special,” Sarah says. “Savannah was the perfect choice.”

Web of Truths The couple planned their wedding from afar. They relied on the web to help them choose a luxe, private 12-room estate on Wilmington Island for the ceremony and secure the elegant Ten Downing space at Churchill’s Pub for the reception.

Sara lined up a photographer, officiant, transportation and other details from her home in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.

In fact, the bride and groom never even set foot in Georgia’s Hostess City until the week before the wedding.

“We did everything over the phone,” Sarah laughs. “We came down the Thursday before the wedding to get all the final details set.”

Sarah & Ryan

Season: Summer Palette: Champagne, gold, aqua and gray Planning time: Six months Guests: 50 Ceremony: Plantation Landing, private estate on Wilmington Island Reception: Ten Downing at Churchill’s Pub

All About the Dress. While shopping in Minneapolis with her mother, Sarah found a champagne-colored crushed silk gown by Free People. This romantic frock served as the starting point for the wedding’s chic color palette, blending cool aquas and pale grays with rich golds. “I wanted the aqua blue color to bring in a beachy feel,” the bride explains. “The gray suits for the groomsmen were cool and comfortable in Savannah in July.”

Island Time.

Plantation Landing, a private estate on Wilmington Island, served as the epicenter of the Wiegels’ wedding weekend. Bridesmaids and groomsmen stayed at the riverfront mansion, which also hosted the couple’s intimate ceremony. “We wanted to rent a place big enough for our families and friends to stay,” Sarah recalls. The house has since been sold and is no longer available for special events, but similar properties are still available. spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

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The big day: Friday, July 10, 2015 Officiant: Weddings by Bill Gillespie Ceremony music: Spotify, a cell phone and a wireless speaker Gown: Free People Accessories: Sam Edelman Hair and makeup: Heather Ferguson, Beyond Beautiful by Heather Bridesmaids’ dresses: Macy’s Groom/groomsmen’s attire: Kenneth Cole Reception music: Island Sound Florist: Flowers purchased from Carlstedt’s Wholesale Florist; bouquets, corsages, boutonnieres and arrangements created by family and friends Cake: Churchill’s Pub red velvet cupcakes Transportation: Oglethorpe Tours Photographer: Lyndi J. Photography, lyndijphotography.com

Island Breezes Fortunately, everything went according to plan. The day of the wedding, guests gathered for an intimate, romantic ceremony on the lawn overlooking the Wilmington River. To keep with the relaxed nature of the wedding, Sarah had a Spotify playlist queued up and ready to go, with classic wedding themes like Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” and retro Rat Pack tunes.

Sarah dazzled in her champagne wedding gown, paired with metallic sandals embellished with parrots—a nod to her original dream of a tropical wedding. Ryan looked dapper in a pewter Kenneth Cole suit.

After the ceremony, guests hopped aboard trolleys for a ride to Ten Downing at Churchill’s Pub, where family and friends sipped cocktails and dined on a lavish Southern-inspired buffet.

Freshly Picked. The day before the wedding, Sarah hand-selected white roses, peonies, lilies of the valley and hydrangeas at Carlstedt’s Wholesale Florist. With a little help from family and friends, she created stunning bouquets, boutonnieres and centerpieces. “I wanted to keep the color really simple, so the flowers wouldn’t clash,” the bride explains.

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No Regrets “Everything was perfect,” Sarah raves, celebrating her compromise.

“Keep an open mind and be willing to take leaps of faith,” she advises other brides. “My dream of getting married on a tropical beach turned into the perfect Savannah wedding. I cannot imagine a more amazing way for my husband and me to start our journey together.” S

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real weddings

Gabby & Bo

Season: Spring Palette: Honeydew, mint, peach, gold, salmon, amaranth, tea rose and pale pink Planning time: 6 months Guests: 220 Ceremony: Whitefield Chapel, Bethesda Academy Reception: Isle of Hope

sweet home

A monogram, a motif and a magical mansion make for a truly breathtaking bash on historic Bluff Drive.

By Andrea Goto | Photography by Mackensey Alexander

For many couples, choosing a location is one of the most difficult choices—that is, unless your family already resides in a stunning antebellum-style home on one of Savannah’s most scenic Southern drives.

Gabby Ballenger, a retail and art gallery manager, and Bo Ballance, a student and chef, knew they wanted to marry at the charming Whitefield Chapel at Bethesda Academy and host their reception at the Isle of Hope home of Bo’s mother, Colleen Smith. The location was also “a godsend” for their wedding designer.

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“Ultimately, someone opening up their home to a wedding is the definition of Southern hospitality,” enthuses Tristan Needham of Design Studio South.

Where to Begin In addition to providing an ideal location, the groom’s mother also helped to bring Gabby’s vision of “vintage and sparkle” to life. Colleen is a designer and the co-owner of Cohen’s Retreat, a historic building

transformed into a boho-chic art gallery and retail space.

“I knew what I wanted it to look like, but I had no idea how to get there,” admits Gabby. “I was all over the place with colors and themes.”

In the age of Pinterest, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with design possibilities. Tristan’s first step is to get couples to focus on a color palette and a single element—either an icon or a monogram—as a platform on which to build the rest of the design. She then weaves that palette and element through various wedding details.

“That’s one way we brand a wedding and keep it cohesive and personal at the same time,” explains Tristan.

Gabby and Bo chose a custom monogram by Savannah designer Emily McCarthy and placed it on their invites, favor bags, reception napkins and “to-go” cups.

“We didn’t want another koozie, but we still wanted something personal,” explains Gabby. The cups were—and still are—a hit.

“We still have them and so many of my friends do,” she notes. “They’re like Masters cups—they show up everywhere!”

A Relaxed Retreat For the reception, Needham collaborated with Colleen to carry Cohen’s Retreat’s carefully curated aesthetic into the overall design and to take inside elements outdoors. An elegant chandelier was hung from a grand live oak and arrangements of velvety vintage seating transformed the front yard into a stunning space for the cocktail hour.

With a view of of the Intracoastal Waterway, guests played corn hole and enjoyed delectable sushi, oyster shooters and antipasti skewers. They also sipped a signature cocktail—a mix between an Arnold Palmer and a bourbon and ginger ale—named after the couple’s two beloved pups, Hattie and Mason.

More Than Flowers.

“I was obsessed with my bridal bouquet,” Gabby muses. Inside the swath of blushing blooms, she tied the fork and spoon her father used as a baby and tucked a military pin that belonged to her late grandfather. “It was the little details that were so special because not everybody could see them,” the bride points out. “But I knew that they were there.”

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“We thought the name ‘Hattie Mason’ sounded like a really good golfer, so that’s what we called the drink,” laughs Gabby.

From there, guests proceeded to the backyard, where a spacious tent— transparent to allow overhead views of Spanish moss draping from the live oaks—converted Colleen’s backyard into a cozy yet elegant space for dining and dancing. Expansive, sturdy farmhouse tables, paired with gingham linens, held heaping plates as guests helped themselves to a buffet of braised beef short ribs, Jamaican jerk salmon, carnitas and BBQ chicken skewers. Strings of lights and swags of greenery decorated the tent—emulating the stars and trees above—as guests celebrated in the chic comfort of the family home. S

Cushy Job.

A friend of the family came across a bulk of vintage floral sheets and immediately thought of Gabby. “She brought them over to the house and I went crazy,” the bride recalls. The designers had pillows made for the reception seating, and Gabby’s mom used the leftover remnants to sew winsome bean bags for the corn hole boards.

Welcome Home.

Tristan has a rule she likes to follow when creating welcome gifts. “We usually do something salty, something sweet, a map and some sort of drink,” she explains. Gabby and Bo’s gift boxes included a peach cobbler mix and cookies by food columnist and family friend Martha Nesbit.

The bride’s grandmother rounded out the offering with dainty breads. “She baked for, like, two weeks,” Gabby notes.

The big day: Saturday, March 21, 2015 Planner/event designer: Tristan Needham, Design Studio South Rehearsal dinner: Cohen’s Retreat Officiant: Meg Procopio Ceremony music: Nancy Vogelsang and Kerri Sellman Gown: Sarah Seven, Ivory and Beau Accessories: Hushed Commotion, sash; Adele Amelia, veil Hair: Tyler Lively, 40 Volume Salon Makeup: Elizabeth Wheaton Groom/groomsmen’s attire: J Parker Limited Catering and bar service: Cohen’s Retreat Reception music: Bucky Bryant Florist: A to Zinnias Cake: KM Cake Design Rentals and lighting: Amazing Event Rentals; vintage rentals, Savannah Vintage Rentals; vintage china rentals, Lillian’s China Ceremony transportation: Timeless Motor Coaches Reception transportation: Old Savannah Tours Videographer: Devin Olson Media Photography: Mackensey Alexander, mackenseyalexander.com

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real weddings

Amber and Paul

Season: Fall Palette: Green with pops of ivory, coral, navy blue and burgundy Planning time: One year Guests: 75 Ceremony/Reception: Charles H. Morris Center

Independent Spirit A local couple and their planner prove that a wedding doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be D.I.Y. to be deeply personal and wildly imaginative.

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By Allison Hersh | Photography by Rachael Oerther

Creative couple Amber Malone and Paul Gwiazda wanted their celebration to reflect their personalities and passions. Amber, a manager at J. Crew, and Paul, an art preparator at the Savannah College of Art and Design, share a love of vintage style and relaxed elegance.

We wanted our wedding to have a lot of personal touches,” Amber explains.

Wild Ideas Fortunately, they had a “secret weapon” in Nicole Schwalge, the co-owner of Ivory and Beau bridal boutique in Savannah. Amber met Nicole while shopping for her wedding gown and decided to hire the local wedding expert as both an event planner and floral designer.

“We had very similar taste and styles,” Nicole recalls.

From wild, unstructured floral arrangements to elaborate, hand-crafted wedding cakes, the Gwiazda wedding radiated classic, vintage style. The ceremony and reception at the Charles H. Morris Center sported handlettered signs, midcentury modern table numbers and antique furniture, including velvet sofas, plush armchairs and heart pine dining tables.

“We liked so many different concepts and ideas,” Amber confesses.

“But it all came together in the end.”

Art and Soul The evening kicked off with a romantic outdoor wedding ceremony, as Amber and Paul said “I do,” surrounded by lush floral garlands.

After moving indoors for the reception, the couple enjoyed their first dance to Neutral Milk Hotel’s indie rock hit, “In An Aeroplane Over the Sea.” Family and friends sampled classic Southern cuisine and savored a selection of cakes and tarts, artfully plated on vintage cake stands and arranged atop an antique sideboard.

Amber’s favorite moment was when she stole a few minutes alone with Paul between the ceremony and the reception, comparing notes and reflecting upon their day.

“They’re not kidding when they say the whole day flies by,” she laughs.

“So enjoy it!”

Amazing Accessories. Amber strategically incorporated accessories into her wedding-day style, accenting her strapless lace Sarah Seven wedding gown with a navy velvet sash by Adele Amelia to add a touch of “something blue.” To complete her bridal look, she borrowed a pair of diamond earrings from her great-aunt, donned a golden J. Crew necklace and topped her brunette updo with a contrasting ivory headband. spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

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Sign of the Times.

After seeing a handmade “Here Comes the Bride” sign on Pinterest, Amber turned to her fiancé to help make the handheld novelty a reality. The couple joined forces to create the vintage-inspired piece for the ceremony, with Paul cutting the sign and Amber completing the lettering. “I love how that sign turned out,” she says proudly.

The big day: Friday, October 2, 2015 Officiant: Weddings by Bill Gillespie Planner/event designer: Ivory and Beau Rehearsal dinner: B. Matthew's Eatery Ceremony music: Sound System Gown: Sarah Seven, Ivory and Beau Accessories: Adele Amelia sash, J. Crew necklace Hair and makeup: Stevie Garvey Bridesmaids’ dresses: Ralph Lauren, Nordstrom Groom/groomsmen's attire: Theblacktux.com Catering: J Thomas Catering Reception music: All About You Entertainment Florist: Ivory and Beau Cake: Sweet 'N' Flour Rentals: Amazing Event Rentals and Savannah Vintage Rentals Photography: Rachael Oerther, Rach Loves Troy, rachlovestroy.com

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Floral Fantasy.

Biscuit Bliss.

At the reception at the Charles H. Morris Center, guests gravitated toward the biscuit bar by J Thomas Catering, where they topped tender biscuits with hearty gravy or handmade jams and jellies. Food was particularly important to the bride, who insisted on a Southern-inspired menu. “I had to have pulled pork,” Amber admits. “I had to have macaroni and cheese.”

Amber requested a profusion of wild, natural-looking flowers at her wedding, opting for an eclectic blend of blossoms, berries and leaves. “For the centerpieces, we went wild with the greenery and made everything look very carefree,” explains wedding planner Nicole Schwalge. “The outcome was reminiscent of a woodland-inspired wedding.” S

Your perfect day. Our perfect place.

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13040 Abercorn Street | Savannah, GA 31419 912.344.2953 | armstrong.edu/armstrongcenter armstrong.center@armstrong.edu

real weddings

Melissa & Matthew Season: Fall Palette: Pink and gold Planning time: 15 months Guests: 110 Ceremony: Forsyth Park Reception: Georgia State Railroad Museum

RAIN AND SHINE Despite a devastating downpour,

a destination bride and groom find plenty of reasons to sparkle

in Savannah.

By Christen Barron | Photography by Jade and Matthew McCully

“I love the city,” gushes Melissa Marshall, a Savannah College of Art and Design alumna who married her high school sweetheart, Matthew Daniluck, here last fall. “Matthew came down while I was attending graduate school and fell in love with the city, too.”

Savannah’s inimitable architectural charm appealed to the couple, and the serene Southern setting proved ideal for bringing their families together from Florida and Virginia.

“It was the new halfway point between both families, which was a

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bonus,” Melissa explains.

With the location set, Melissa turned to wedding planner Tara Skinner of Posh Petals and Pearls to help her orchestrate her special day from afar.

“We couldn’t have had the wedding we did without Tara,” Melissa says. “She knows the ins and outs of the city of Savannah and the vendors.

Planners make the process fun and less stressful—or, in our case, stressfree. Throughout the process, I felt like any idea Tara or I had aligned perfectly.”

You Glow, Girl Melissa’s frothy pink wedding dress provided the first blush of inspiration for the wedding’s shimmering palette. When Tara organized a meeting with florist Amy Harvey of Harvey Designs, even more details came together.

“Amy showed us a stunning, champagne sequined tablecloth,” the planner recalls. “That’s when we decided on pink and gold.”

They couldn’t have known then how appropriate their color choices would be—as a pleasing contrast against somber, gray October skies.

The wedding ended up being one of the rainiest events Tara has planned.

Purple Reign.

Melissa paid homage to her favorite shade by choosing violet-hued Vera Wang bridesmaids’ dresses and also selecting orchid-colored heels. She incorporated ribbons monogrammed by Tampa-based Oatmeal Lace Design into their bouquets as well as her own.

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“It just poured and poured,” the planner winces.

But the bride remained determined that her Forsyth Park fountain ceremony would continue—rain or shine. The photographers, musicians, and Posh Petals and Pearls crew came armed with umbrellas and a backup plan. But Savannah—as she often does—worked her magic.

“When the ceremony began, it suddenly stopped raining,” Tara says, still amazed.

Savannah Serendipity At the rustic-industrial Georgia State Railroad Museum reception, the bejeweled textiles imparted an enchanting aura against the backdrop of black and gold railcars.

“Linens are often overlooked,” Tara muses. “Couples don’t want to spend the money there, but Melissa and Matthew spent a little extra on the linens, and the difference was unforgettable.”

Guests nibbled on gilded sweets, such as gold-dusted cake pops and cupcakes, from Delectable Designs. Harvey Designs upped the romantic ante with centerpieces made of lush, pink garden roses, nestled among delicate café au lait dahlias. For added sparkle, glass chargers with gold beaded rims framed each place setting.

By the end of the evening, the drab gray sky melted into a sorbet of pinks and purples—a stunning backdrop that photographers Jade and Matthew McCully captured on camera. It was a moment of pure serendipity that could have happened only in Savannah. S

Run-away Groom. In a fit of whimsy, the groom and his possé brought in the "something blue" with their choice of running shoes and socks—a serendipitous choice, considering the weather. But the happy couple burned rubber in a sweetly adored pedicab after the ceremony.

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The big day: Saturday, Oct. 3, 2015 Planner/event designer: Posh Petals and Pearls Officiant: The Rev. Steve Schulte Ceremony music: New Arts Ensemble Gown: Kitty Chen Couture, White Swan Bridal Boutique, Vienna, Virginia Accessories: Kitty Chen Couture belt; Jessica Simpson “Liddy,” pink suede heels; Lord and Taylor bag passed down from Alpha Xi Delta sorority sisters Hair and makeup: Bride’s Side Beauty Bridesmaids’ dresses: Vera Wang, exclusively for David’s Bridal; belts, White House Black Market Groom/groomsmen’s attire: Men’s USA, mensusa.com; shirts and black ties, Van Heusen; blue tennis shoes, New Balance Rehearsal dinner: Garibaldi Café Catering: Creative Catering Reception music: First City Events Florist: Harvey Designs Cake: Delectable Designs Rentals: Savannah Special Events Transportation: Old Savannah Tours Photographer: Jade and Matthew McCully, Jade and Matthew Take Pictures, jadeandmatthew.com

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Alex & Ricky Season: Fall Palette: Mauve, navy, neutrals, earth tones Planning time: 7 months Guests: 170 Ceremony: Oglethorpe Square Reception: Soho South Café

a leap of faith A couple takes a detour from Athens to downtown Savannah to say “I do.”

By Brittany D. McClure | Photography by Wendy Norman

Though they had already planned an entire wedding in their hometown of Athens, Georgia, Richard Helvey and Alexandria “Alex” Hall let a fateful trip to Savannah change everything. Inspired by the city’s uniqueness, they became a destination duo overnight.

“Everywhere we looked was full of natural beauty, from the trees to the historic buildings,” Alex gushes. “We fell in love with Savannah and started the planning all over again.”

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It was a leap of faith—and not the first one for this pious pair, who met and fell in love in their Sunday school class. Their spiritual connection would see them through not one but two wedding plans.

Simply the Best Fortunately for Alex and Ricky, though the planning went back to square one, there were plenty of other squares on the horizon. One in

Back to Nature. It was really important to Alex that she and her bridesmaids reflected the authentic beauty of Savannah. That’s why she chose muted colors, minimal makeup and subdued hair. “Everything was very natural and not at all over the top,” she explains.

Green Thumbs Up.

From the Spanish moss swaying from tall oak trees to the garlands and baby’s breath at the reception, Alex and Ricky kept their floral decor fresh and simple.

particular—Oglethorpe Square—struck their fancy.

“Its beauty spoke for itself, and we knew that we wouldn’t have to do a thing to it,” Alex explains.

Simplicity would soon become the theme of Alex and Ricky’s wedding.

“Ricky likes to joke that my favorite color is taupe,” Alex laughs. “I just wanted everything to be naturally beautiful so as not to get wrapped up in the little details.”

Soho in the South With the ceremony site booked, the couple sought a reception location that complemented the simplicity of the square. Photographer Wendy Norman suggested Soho South Café, and the space’s clean yet whimsical décor proved the perfect canvas for Alex’s rustic, romantic vision.

“We rented wood farm tables, then garnished them with natural table runners and garlands made from greenery,” Alex recalls.

Strands of tiny bulbs festooned the rafters and poured down the walls like glittering raindrops. Natural light flowed in through the restaurant’s spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

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real weddings industrial-sized windows. With such simple beauty, the couple was able to fill the room with family and friends, instead of vast centerpieces and luxurious linens.

Alex and Ricky also sought the expertise of videographer Kevin Johnson, who set up a video booth at the reception. It was was a simple and special way to capture the kind words of loved ones—and to create a lasting keepsake.

Precious Accessories For Alex, it was more important to focus on love rather than labels.

That’s why she chose to incorporate pieces from her family into her wedding day ensemble.

“I wore my grandmother’s diamond dinner ring, which was given to me as a graduation gift, and my ‘something borrowed’ was a handkerchief from my stepfather,” she recalls. “That day, Ricky’s mother gave me her grandmother’s wedding ring, and I tied that to my bouquet.”

But the dress was all Alex. To add a bit of her own touch to the empire waist gown with a sweetheart neckline, she had a seamstress sew on offthe-shoulder straps for a vintage feel.

At the end of it all, Alex and Ricky’s “second” wedding went off without a hitch.

The bride reflects, “We ended up right where we were supposed to be.” S

Sweet Memories. In addition to a small cake that the couple cut together, Alex and Ricky’s family also provided pies, cakes and cookies for the dessert bar. “Having them share their recipes was a way for everyone to be part of our day,” Alex explains.

Table for Two.

During the reception, the couple made a point of staying focused on each other. In addition to having a private table of their own, they also spent a lot of quality time on the dance floor. “We didn’t want to let the night get away from us,” Alex explains.

The big day: Saturday, September 26, 2015 Planner/event designer: Kelsey Alligood Officiant: David Bethea Ceremony music: Ruthie Parham Gown: Essence, Formally Yours in Lilburn Accessories: Great-grandmother’s dinner ring; Alex Marie gold scalloped peep-toe wedges Hair: Posh Hair by Lindsay Makeup: Lindsey Wirht Makeup Bridesmaids’ dresses: Bari Jay, Formally Yours Reception music: The Company Band Florist: Kiwi Fleur Cake: Baker’s Pride Catering: Soho South Cafe Rentals: Amazing Event Rentals and Savannah Vintage Rentals Transportation: Savannah Carriage Rentals Videographer: Kevin Johnson Photographer: Wendy Norman, Apt. B Photography, aptbphotography.com

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Photography by David Humphries

1909 E Victor y Dr. | Savannah, GA 31404 | 912-352-1251 | www.simonsformal.com

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real weddings

Discover It

Yourself

A Chicago couple celebrates their connection with a glamorous garden party at bucolic Berkeley Hall.

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By Ariel Felton | Photography by Kelli Boyd

Nicole & Logan

Season: Spring Palette: Blush and gold Planning time: 9 months Guests: 125 Ceremony: Savannah Gardens at Berkeley Hall, Okatie, South Carolina Reception: Grand Lawn, Berkeley Hall

“I already knew what I wanted,” says destination bride Nicole Wade of her wedding to fellow Chicagoan Logan Grider. “I just needed to make it happen.”

What she wanted was a simple, chic Southern wedding at Berkeley Hall Golf Club in Okatie, South Carolina, where Logan’s parents live.

Okatie is just across the Talmadge Bridge from Savannah, and Nicole and Logan fell in love with the brilliant greenery of Berkeley Hall’s Savannah Garden area. They especially appreciated that the golf club offered onsite cottages for their traveling guests.

A Verdant Vision “Once I found the location, I could really picture it,” Nicole recalls.

“I wanted the decorations to be simple and not to overpower the gorgeous garden.”

The bride chose blush and gold tones to complement the natural setting—and the hints of greenery in her hand-tied napkins and leafy centerpieces. She placed her printed menus underneath gilded, clear glass plates for a contemporary, functional twist on tradition.

All those things were part of the plan. The wedding attire wasn’t.

Nicole credits her D.I.Y. approach with allowing her to discover her own preferences.

“I always thought, ‘I will never have the mix-matched bridesmaids’ dresses,’” she laughs. “Then I actually started looking, and I fell in love with so many different styles.”

A Shared Dream Each bridesmaid ended up choosing her own fresh frock—and the self-planner ended up relying on others to achieve her dream day. The golf club's wedding coordinator helped connect Nicole with the right local vendors, and Logan became a hands-on groom, selecting the perfect band.

“You have to have faith that all your efforts will be worth it,” Nicole encourages other brides.

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real weddings

Southern Comforts.

Nicole and Logan created gift boxes stuffed with some of their favorite Southern delights: mini Firefly Vodka bottles to mix with packs of Crystal Light lemonade, pralines from Savannah Candy Kitchen and Carolina BBQ kettle chips—the couple’s go-to snacks—and a “remedy kit” filled with hangover cures. The boxes also included a list of favorite restaurants and brochures for suggested local activities.

Matchless Details. With a wink and a nod to their meeting on Match.com, the couple skipped a traditional seating chart and instead used personalized matchbooks to show guests to their seats.

“I thought that idea was really fun,” Nicole says. “And it’s just another little personalized detail that made our day so special.”

Parlor Games. Since the age of 21, Logan has taken an annual trip to Las Vegas with his buddies. This year, he skipped the trip in favor of saving up and helping plan the wedding. Wanting to show Logan she appreciated the gesture, Nicole brought Vegas to him and commissioned card tables for the groom and guests to enjoy during the reception. Nicole didn’t stop there. For a twist on the traditional groom’s cake, Nicole surprised Logan with a Dunkin Donuts tower—a fun and tasty way to ensure her groom and his personality were reflected in the day’s details. S

The big day: Friday, May 29, 2015 Officiant: The Rev. Michael Beaumont Rehearsal dinner: Moreland Landing, Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina Ceremony music: Charleston Virtuosi Gown: Amsale, Nordstrom Accessories: BHLDN Hair and makeup: Bride’s Side Beauty Bridesmaids’ dresses: Amsale and Joanna August, Bella Bridesmaid Chicago Groom/groomsmen’s attire: J. Crew suits; The Tie Bar suspenders and ties Catering: Chef John Soulia, Berkeley Hall Reception music: A Town A List Florist: Sue Burden Cake: Low Country Flour Girls Rentals: Event Haus; JLK Events and Lighting; Snyder Event Rentals Transportation: Savannah Trolley (rehearsal dinner); Diamond Transportation Videographer: Adam Siegel, Siegel Films, Charleston, South Carolina Photographer: Kelli Boyd, kelliboydphotography.com

88 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

For Booking Information Call Maria Cortez

say “i do” to a

Savannah Wedding

Whether you say “I do” in one of our beautiful historic squares or in one of many breathtaking nineteenth century downtown churches, the possibilities are endless in Savannah.

• Natural beauty and charm to create the perfect backdrop • Exquisite reception spaces at our preferred hotel partners • Booking incentives and discounted rates for guest room blocks Let the expert staff at Stay in Savannah take care of the details from start to finish to create a wedding that you and your guests will never forget.

Contact our Wedding Specialist Megan Rowe at (912) 298-0324 or at Megan.Rowe@StayinSavannah.com

MAKE EVERY EVENT

Amazing

AMAZING EVENT RENTALS | 912.927.2666 | amazingeventrentals.com

324 West Bolton Street Savannah, GA 31401 phone: 912.355.4177 fax: 912.355.4175 savannahrumrunners.com follow us:

Family is why we do it all.

Making Dreams Come True

We all feel the same commitment to care for our families. Helping you meet your insurance needs is part of my commitment to you.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

CALL ME TODAY.

Erica Herndon, Agent 3228 Skidaway Road Savannah, GA 31404 Bus: 912-354-6464 erica@myneighborerica.com

®

0907504.1

State Farm, Home Office, Bloomington, IL

Savannah Magazine Makes a Fab Favor!

Put a copy in your welcome bags and give your wedding guests a lasting connection to the Hostess City.

Reserve copies of your wedding month’s issue now and receive 30% off the cover price. gs Season’s Greetin

Sppllashing

Be the New Change s n io it d ra T er/December 2015

for 25 Years

January/February 2016

Novemb

Parties, Recipes

and Gifts

For Your Hostess City Holiday

July/August 2015

Rock The Boat !

Solutions, Success Stories & Social Experiments

The Pipeline, Plast ic Wars, Ogeechee Mag ic & Secrets To a Clean Coas t

20

Rising Stars of Business

Plus

GIVING BACK

AGING GRACEFULLY

Hark!

The Herald Music Scene

& THE GUY’S GUIDE TO GETTING ENGAGED

Plus

School Choice 2016 & 10 Weekend Getaways

Plus:

Our Feel-Good Health Guide, Top Dentists & Back to School:

By Kids, For Kids

Call 912-652-0293 savannahmagazine.com

2430 Abercorn St. | 912.233.6077 www.JohnDavisFlorist.com Photo: Kelli Boyd Photography

a place for us

W E N DY N O R M A N

A WA R M

RECEPTION Short of choosing

the groom, your venue may be the single most important wedding decision you will make. To help you make a smart choice, we asked area wedding sites to share their vital statistics.

92 savannah weddings

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Y

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?

O

CE R SI EM TE O ? N

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

LOCATION

M

VENUE

10 Downing at Churchill's Pub Historic District 90 Y Y N Y N N Y Y thebritishpub.com, 912.232.8501 13 W. Bay St.

17 Hundred 90 Inn Historic District 30 Y Y N Y or food Y Y N N 17hundred90.com, 912.236.7122 307 E. President St. & bev. min.

109 West Historic District 26 Y N Y N N Y Y N 109west.net, 912.232.6633 109 W. Liberty St.

39 Rue de Jean Historic District 225 Y Y N Y or food Y Y Y fee 605 W. Oglethorpe Ave. & bev. min.

39ruedejeansav.com, 912.721.0574

Andaz Savannah Historic District 150 Y Y N Y N Y Y Y savannah.andaz.hyatt.com

14 Barnard St. 912.629.9484 Armstrong Center Southside 600 Y Y N Y Y N Y Y armstrong.edu/armstrongcenter 13040 Abercorn St. 912.344.2953 B. Matthews Eatery Historic District 40 Y Y N Y Y N N Y bmatthewseatery.com, 912.233.1319 325 E. Bay St. The Ballroom at the American Legion Historic District 299 Y N Y Y N N N Y alpost135.com, 912.233.9277 1108 Bull St. The Barn at Redgate Farms West Savannah 300 Y N Y N Y Y Y Y 190 Redgate Trail Road savannahsvenue.com, 912.777.9835 Beachview Bed and Breakfast Tybee Island 80 Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y beachviewbbtybee.com, 912.786.5500 1701 Butler Ave.

Belfair Bluffton, S.C. 240 Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y belfair1811.com, 843.757.0701 200 Belfair Oaks Blvd.

Belford's Savannah Seafood & Steaks Historic District 150 Y Y N Y N N Y Y belfordssavannah.com, 912.233.2626 315 W. Saint Julian St.

Berkeley Hall Bluffton, S.C. 120 indoor; Y Y N Y N Y Y Y berkeleyhallclub.com/weddings.php 366 Good Hope Road 300+ outdoor 843.815.8493 Bloody Point Golf Club & Resort Daufuskie Island, S.C. 80 interior; Y Y N Y N Y N N bloodypointresort.com 56 Fuskie Lane 175 exterior 843.341.3030 Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront Historic District 110 interior; N Y N Y N Y Y N bohemiansavannah.com 102 W. Bay St. 150 exterior/interior 912.721.3800 Botanical Garden, Savannah Area Council of Garden Clubs and

Historic Reinhard Farmhouse savannahbotanical.org, 912.844.9337

The Brice - A Kimpton Hotel bricehotel.com, 912.238.1200

Midtown 40 interior; Y N Y N N N Y N 1388 Eisenhower 120 exterior Drive Historic District 125 Y Y N Y N Y Y Y 601 E. Bay St.

Botanic Garden Statesboro (Georgia 125 pavilion; Y N Y N N N Y Y at Georgia Southern University Southern University) 400 with tent georgiasouthern.edu/garden, 912.478.1149 1505 Bland Ave. Brockington Hall Historic District 150 Y N Y N N Y Y Y brockingtonhall.com, 912.856.5117 213 E. Hall St. Broughton Street Guest House Historic District 26 Y N Y N N Y Y N and Carriage House 511 E. Broughton St. savannahvillas.com, 912.232.6633 Bryson Hall Historic District 125 seated; Y N Y N N Y Y Y brysonhall.com, 912.272.4435 5 E. Perry St. 225 standing

spring /summer 2016 savannah weddings

93

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

Callawassie Island callawassieisland.com, 843.987.2143

Callawassie Island, S.C. 225 interior; Y Y N Y N Y Y Y 22 Callawassie Club Dr. 300 exterior

Cha Bella cha-bella.com, 912.227.0136

Historic District 120 102 East Broad St.

Y Y N N Y N Y N

Charles H. Morris Center trusteesgarden.com, 912.443.3277

Historic District 300 10 East Broad St.

Y N Y Y N N Y Y

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens Southside coastalgeorgiabg.org, 912.921.5460 2 Canebrake Road Cohenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Retreat cohensretreat.com, 912.355.3336

O

VENUE

200 interior; Y N Y N N N Y Y 300 exterior

Magnolia Park call for info Y Y N N Y Y Y Y 5715 Skidaway Road

The Conch House Special Event Facility River Street 250 seated; Y Y preferred Y call N Y Y liveoakrestaurants.net, 912.233.2901 225 W. River St. 350 standing list Cotton Sail Hotel

cottonsailhotel.com, 912.200.3700

Historic District 126 W. Bay St.

60 seated w/dance Y floor; 100 without

N

N

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Courtyard by Marriott - Savannah Historic District 50 Y Y N Y N Y Y Y Historic District 415 W. Liberty St. courtyard.com/savdt, 912.790.8287 The Distillery Alehouse Historic District 100 Y Y Y Y N N Y Y distilleryalehouse.com, 912.236.1772 416 W. Liberty St. Doubletree Hotel - Historic Savannah Historic District 150 Y Y N food & N Y Y Y historicsavannah.doubletree.com 411 W. Bay St. bev. min.

912.790.7000 The Dresser Palmer House Historic District 80 Y Y N Y N Y Y N dresserpalmerhouse.com, 912.238.3294 211 E. Gaston St. Dunham Farms dunhamfarms.com, 912.880.4500

Sunbury 5836 Islands Hwy.

250

Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y

The Ford Plantation fordplantation.com, 912.756.5725

Richmond Hill 300 12511 Ford Ave.

Y Y N Y N bridal Y N

Fort King George Historic Site Darien gastateparks.org/fortkinggeorge 302 McIntosh Road 912.437.4770 SE

60

Y N Y Y N N N Y

Fort McAllister State Historic Park Richmond Hill 130 gastateparks.org/fortmcallister 3894 Fort McAllister 912.727.2339 Road

Y N Y Y N Y Y Y

Garibaldi CafĂŠ garibaldisavannah.com, 912.232.7118

Y Y N N N N Y Y

City Market 120 315 W. Congress St.

The Gastonian Historic District 34 Y Y Y must book N Y N N gastonian.com 220 E. Gaston St. entire inn 912.232.2869 (17 rooms) Georgia Historical Society Historic District 200 Y N choose Y N N Y N georgiahistory.com, 912.651.2125 x120 501 Whitaker St. from list Georgia State Railroad Museum Historic District 300 Y N Y Y N N Y Y chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038 601 W. Harris St. Gingerbread House Victorian District 150 Y N Y Y Y Y Y Y gingerbreadhouseevents.com, 912.358.8440 1921 Bull St. Grand Lake Club at Southbridge Southbridge 170 seated; Y Y N depends Y N Y Y grandlakesav.com/weddings 815 Southbridge Blvd.

250 standing on venue 912.233.2466 Hampton Hall Club Bluffton, S.C. 380 seated; Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y hamptonhallclubsc.com/weddings 170 Hampton Hall Blvd. 425+ standing 843.815.9336

94 savannah weddings

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For memories as brilliant as shining light~ Timeless as the tides~ Begin lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey here~

Photos by Rich Burkhart

T Y B E E I S L A N D L I G H T S TAT I O N WEDDING CEREMONIES | WEDDING RECEPTIONS | REHEARSAL DINNER | ENGAGEMENTS For more information call 912.786.5801 or email vikki@tybeelighthouse.org 30 Meddin Avenue | Tybee Island, Georgia 31328 | www.mylighthousewedding.com

Y

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?

LOCATION

CE R SI EM TE O ? N

VENUE

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

a place for us

Hampton Inn and Suites - Savannah Historic District 125 N N Y Y N Y Y N Downtown Historic District 201 MLK Jr. Blvd. savannahhistoricsuites.hamptoninn.com 912.721.1600 Hampton Inn and Suites - Savannah Midtown 150 Y Y N ask N Y Y Y Midtown

20 Johnston St. stayinsavannah.com, 912.721.3700 The Harper Fowlkes House Historic District 120 Y N Y N N N Y patio harperfowlkeshouse.com, 912.234.2180 230 Barnard St. Hellenic Center

Victorian District 450 gym; Y Y Y (with Y Y N stpaulsgreekorthodox.org 19 W. Anderson St. 80 meeting room cert. of 912.236.8256 liability)

Y

Y

Hilton Garden Inn - Savannah Historic District 60 N Y N food & Historic District 321 W. Bay St. bev. min. stayhgi.com, 912.721.5000

Y

Y

N

Y

Hilton Garden Inn - Savannah Midtown Midtown 300 Y Y N food & N Y Y Y stayhgi.com, 912.652.9323 5711 Abercorn St. bev. min.

Hilton Savannah DeSoto desotohilton.com, 912.232.9000

Historic District 15 E. Liberty St.

420 seated; 800 standing

Y

Y

N

N

N

Y

Y

Y

Hotel Indigo Savannah (March 2016) Historic District 100 Y Y N Y ask Y Y fee hotelindigo.com, 912.236.4440 201 W. Bay St. Hotel Tybee Tybee Island 220 Y Y N food & Y Y Y Y hoteltybee.com, 912.786.7777 1401 Strand Ave. bev. min.

Hyatt Regency Savannah Historic District 600 Y Y N food & N Y Y Y savannahhyatt.com, 912.238.1234 2 W. Bay St. bev. min.

The Inn at Palmetto Bluff Bluffton, S.C. 175 Y Y N food & N Y Y Y palmettobluffresort.com 476 Mount Pelia Road bev. min.

843.706.6547 Isaiah Davenport House Museum davenporthousemuseum.org 912.236.8097

Historic District 100 324 E. State St.

in the garden

N

Y

Y

N

N

Y

patio

The Jekyll Island Club Jekyll Island 330 Y Y N Y N Y Y Y jekyllclub.com, 912.635.2600 371 Riverview Drive (required) The Lake Club Hilton Head, S.C. 290 Y Y Y Y Y N Y N hiltonheadlakes.com, 843.208.2220 300 Harborside Drive Kehoe House kehoehouse.com, 912.232.1020

Historic District 123 Habersham St.

55 with full house rental

Y

N

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

The Mackey House Chatham Parkway 400 including house, Y Y Y Y N N Y patio 190 Red Gate Farm Trail garden & pavilion mackeyhouse.com, 912.234.7404 The Mansion on Forsyth Park Historic District 200 seated; Y Y N Y N Y Y Y mansiononforsythpark.com 700 Drayton St. 250 standing 912.238.5158 Marlin Monroe's Surfside Grill Tybee Island 150 Y Y N N N Y Y Y marlinmonroessurfsidegrill.com 404 Butler Ave. 912.786.4745 The Marshall House marshallhouse.com, 912.644.7896

Historic District 290 123 E. Broughton St.

Y; holds 80

Y

N

N

N

Y

Y

Y

Massie Heritage Center Historic District 75 meeting room; Y; small N preferred N N N Y garden massieschool.com 207 E. Gordon St. 75 girls' garden; list area 912.395.5070 75 boys' garden

96 savannah weddings

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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 H ? T HA AC ND CE IC SS AP ?

DA FL N C O E O R?

NY CE SI REM TE O ?

LOCATION

M

VENUE

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

a place for us

Molly MacPherson’s Scottish Pub & Grill Historic District 50 Y Y N maybe Y N Y limited macphersonspub.com, 912.239.9600 311 W. Congress St. Moon River Brewing Co. Historic District 125 N Y N Y N N N Y moonriverbrewing.com 21 W. Bay St. 912.447.0943 National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Pooler Air Force 175 Bourne Ave. mightyeighth.org, 912.748.8888

up to 350; Y Y 120 in chapel

choose from list

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Y, unless N min. met

Y

Y

N

Oglethorpe Inn & Suites oglethorpeinn.com, 912.354.8560

Southside 75 in theater or Y 7110 Hodgson Mem. book the whole inn

Old Fort Jackson chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038

East Savannah 150; approx. 600 Y N Y Y N N Y For 150 1 Fort Jackson Road with rentals or less

The Olde Pink House 912.232.4286

Historic District 200+ 23 Abercorn St.

Y with Y reserv.

Y Y N N N N Y Y

Oldfield Club Okatie, S.C. 300 Y N N N N Y Y Y oldfield1732.com, 843.645.4600 130 Oldfield Way Ort Hall Historic District 70 seated N Y N Y N N Y N ladyandsons.com, 912.233.2600 112 W. Congress St. Palmetto Coast Charters Tybee Island unlimited (beach, Y can be Y $1,000 N 912.786.5403 8 Logan St. lighthouse, boats) arranged for boat

N

N

Y

The Pirates' House Historic District 200 N N N N Y N Y N thepirateshouse.com, 912.233.5757 20 East Broad St. Pin Point Heritage Museum chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038

Southside 200 Y N Y Y N N N N 9924 Pin Point Ave.

Planters Inn on Reynolds Square plantersinnsavannah.com, 800.554.1187

Historic District receptions at The Y Y Y Y N Y Y N 29 Abercorn St. Olde Pink House

Presidents’ Quarters Inn Historic District 32 Y N Y N, full inn N Y Y N presidentsquarters.com 225 E. President St. only 912.233.1600 Red Bluff Plantation Hardeeville, S.C. unlimited exterior Y N Y Y N Y house N, N

545 Glasgow Landing grounds Y redbluffplantation.com 855.348.4375 Road The Reynolds Mansion on Sapelo Island galodges.com/lodges/reynolds/weddings 912.485.2299

Sapelo Island 100 Y Y Y Y N Y N Y 1766 Landing Road

Richmond Hill City Center richmondhillcitycenter.com 912.445.0043

Richmond Hill 400 Y Y N Y N N Y Y 520 Cedar St.

The River House Seafood Restaurant Historic District 65 seated, N Y N N Y N Y N savannahriverhouse.com, 912.234.1900 125 W. River St. 120 standing River Street Inn Historic District 72 Y Y N, with Y N Y Y Y riverstreetinn.com, 912.234.6400 124 E. Bay St. exceptions Ruth’s Chris Steak House Historic District 100 Y Y N varies N N Y with ruths-chris.com, 912.721.4800 111 W. Bay St. fee Savannah Children's Museum Historic District 300 Y N Y Y N N Y Y chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038 601 W. Harris St. Savannah Civic Center Historic District 400 Y Y Y Y N N Y Y savannahcivic.com, 912.651.6550 301 W. Oglethorpe Ave. Savannah History Museum Historic District 80-100 Y Y N N N N Y Y chsgeorgia.org, 912.312.3038 303 MLK Jr. Blvd.

98 savannah weddings

spring /summer 2016

Second floor private event space

The Speakeasy

comfortably seats 72 people

Perfect for small weddings, rehearsal dinners, holiday dinners, cocktail receptions, or anniversary parties.

Exposed Savannah Brick Walls & Wood Floors Standing Room For up to 100

Beautiful Private Mahogany Bar with 5 Craft Beer Taps Private Staircase Entry & Elevator Handicap Access

Personalized Menu Selected by Client distilleryevents@gmail.com 째 912-236-1772 째 416 West Liberty Street | Savannah, GA 31401 째

BRIDAL REGISTRY

Haviland and Parlon Herend Juliska Mottahedeh Pickard Portmeirion Reed and Barton

Royal Crown Derby Skyros Spode Vietri Waterford Wedgwood William Yeoward

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

Distillery Events 째

@DistilleryEvents

Savannah International Trade & Convention Center savtcc.com, 912.447.4063

Hutchinson Island 1,000 1 International Drive

Y

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?

LOCATION

M

VENUE

CE SI REM TE O ? N

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

a place for us

Y Y N Y Y N Y Y

Savannah Marriott Riverfront Historic District 1,000 Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y savannahmarriott.com 100 General 912.233.7722 McIntosh Blvd.

Savannah Quarters Country Club Pooler 200 interior; Y Y N Y N N Y Y savannahquarterscc.com 8 Palladian Way 400 exterior 912.450.2285 Savannah Riverboat Historic District 450-600 Y Y N N N N Y Y savannahriverboat.com 9 E. River St. 912.232.6404 Savannah Station Historic District 500 standing; Y choose N Y N/A N Y Y savannahstation.com, 912.233.5400 601 Cohen St. 350 seated from list Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum Historic District 400 Y N Y N N N Y N (William Scarbrough House and Gardens) 41 MLK Jr. Blvd. shipsofthesea.org, 912.232.1511 The Shrimp Factory Historic District 25 N Y N N N N Y, (N in N theshrimpfactory.com, 912.236.4229 313 E. River St. restrooms) Skidaway Island State Park Southside 150 Y N Y Y N camping Y Y gastateparks.org/skidawayisland 52 Diamond only 912.598.2300 Causeway Surf Song Bed and Breakfast Tybee Island 12 Y Y choose N Y Y N at B&B N tybeesurfsong.com 21 Officers Row from list Y at beach 912.472.1040 Telfair Museums telfair.org, 912.790.8879

Historic District 121 Barnard St.

850 at the Jepson Y Y Center

choose from list

Y

N

N

Y

Y

Tybee Island Light Station

tybeelighthouse.org, 912.786.5801

Tybee Island 30 Meddin Ave.

400

Y

N/A

N

N/A

Y, some

N

Y

N

Tybee Island Wedding Chapel Tybee Island 180 Y N Y Y N Y Y Y and Grand Ballroom 1114 U.S. Hwy. 80 E. tybeeweddingchapel.com 912.786.9099 Vic's on the River Historic District 150 Y Y N Y N N Y Y vicsontheriver.com 26 E. Bay St. Villas by the Sea Resort Jekyll Island 80 Y Y N Y Y Y Y Y jekyllislandga.com 1175 N. Beachview 800.841.6262 Drive Westin Savannah Harbor

Historic District 840 seated; Y Y N, unless food & Golf Resort & Spa 1 Resort Drive 1,600 standing special bev. min. westinsavannah.com needs 912.201.2000

N

Y

Y

Y

The Whitman Savannah Historic District 125 Y Y Y N N Y N N TheWhitmanSavannah.com 611 Whitaker St. 912.373.8111 Wilmington Island Club Wilmington Island 235 seated w/dance Y Y N N N N Y Y wilmingtonislandclub.com 501 Wilmington floor; 300 standing 912.897.1612 Island Road The Wyld Dock Bar Eastside 200 Y Y N Y Y N 90% Y thewylddockbar.com, 912.692.1219 2740 Livingston Ave.

100 savannah weddings

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Ce l e b r at e Yo u r We d d i n g R e ce pt i o n w it h a Ta s t e o f Sava n na h Hi sto ry at t h e P i c t u r e s q u e Wi l m i n gto n Is l a n d Clu b.

Located atop a hill on the golf course of the General Oglethorpe Hotel (circa 1927), the Wilmington Island Clubhouse, designed in 1999, offers a perfect backdrop for the treasured pictures of your special day.

For more information on our services and venue, call the food and beverage office at (912)897-1612, ext. 101.

501 Wilmington Island Road, Savannah, GA 31410

SUNNY LEE PHOTOGRAPHY

a place for us

SACRED SPACES When it comes to saying

your eternal vows, this coastal city boasts a host of ceremony locations.

All Saints Episcopal Church Tybee Island 804 Jones Ave. 912.786.5845 allsaintstybee.com

Bible Baptist Church Eastside 4700 Skidaway Road 912.352.3020 bbsav.org

Calvary Baptist Midtown 4625 Waters Ave. 912.351.2288 cbtsavannah.org

Congregation Agudath Achim Midtown 9 Lee Blvd.

912.352.4737 agudath-achim.com

Ardsley Park Baptist Church Ardsley Park 1 E. 55th St. 912.234.1256 apsavannah.com

Blessed Sacrament Catholic Ardsley Park 1003 E. Victory Drive 912.356.6980 mbschurch.org

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist Historic District 222 E. Harris St. 912.233.4709 savannahcathedral.org

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

First African Baptist Church Historic District 23 Montgomery St. 912.233.6597 firstafricanbc.com

Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church Eastside 1008 Henry St. 912.233.4351 asburymemorial.org

Bull Street Baptist Church Victorian District 1400 Bull St. 912.236.1511 bullstreet.org

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

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

First Presbyterian Ardsley Park 520 Washington Ave. 912.354.7615 savannahfpc.org

102 savannah weddings

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

Savannah Bride Guide Wedding Half Page 2016.pdf 1 1/6/2016 11:59:04 AM

912-445-0043 Get Connected

Southern Hospitality in a Natural Setting

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

PL ANNING YOUR DREAM WEDDING STARTS HERE www.RichmondHillCityCenter.com

520 Cedar St. Richmond Hill, Ga Info@RichmondHillCityCenter.com

20% OFF

BLEACHING WITH MENTION OF THIS AD

912.353.9533 835 E. 65th St. Suite 108 Savannah, GA

Scott A. Cohen, DDS, PC

COSMETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY

savannahdentalcentre.com Like us on

NICHOLE BARRALI PHOTOGRAPHY

W I C K E D C A K E S O F S AVA N N A H . C O M 912.298.0040 3 8 W H I TA K E R S T R E E T

a place for us 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

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

St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Wilmington Island 7030 Concord Road 912.897.5224 saintpetertheapostle.com St. Peter’s Episcopal Skidaway Island 3 W. Ridge Rd. 912.598.7242 stpeterssavannah.org J A D E A N D M A T T H E W M C C U L LY

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

912.233.2083 stphilipame.com

First United Pentecostal Church Southside 1735 Grove Point Road 912.927.0569 pentecostalsofsavannah.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sacred Heart Catholic Church Victorian District 1707 Bull St. 912.232.0792 sacredheartsavannah.org St. Francis of the Islands Episcopal Church Wilmington Island 590 Walthour Road 912.897.5725 saintfrancissavannah.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.georgi aepiscopal.org

Unitarian Universalist Church Historic District 313 E. Harris St. 912.234.0980 uusavannah.org Wesley Oak United Methodist Church Thunderbolt 3124 E. Victory Dr. 912.352.0844 Wesley Monumental United Methodist Historic District 429 Abercorn St. 912.232.0191 wesleymonumental.org

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

White Bluff Presbyterian Southside 10710 White Bluff Road 912.927.1731 whitebluffpresbyterian.com

Savannah Christian Church Southside 55 Al Henderson Blvd.

912.925.9657 savannahchristian.com

White Bluff United Methodist Southside 11911 White Bluff Road 912.925.5924 wbumc.org

Second African Baptist Church Historic District 123 Houston St. 912.233.6163

Wilmington Island Presbyterian Wilmington Island 450 N. Cromwell Road 912.897.1840 wipcsav.org

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

Wilmington Island United Methodist Wilmington Island 195 Wilmington Island Road 912.897.2835 islandmethodist.com

SAVANNAH’S LEADER IN DJ ENTERTAINMENT

7 PROFESSIONAL DJ’S • LIGHTING • PHOTOBOOTHS Let us help you customize and create your dream wedding reception!

912-897-0518 | www.allaboutyoudjs.com

Southern Hospitality in a Romantic Setting

Lodging & Venue for Intimate Ceremonies 912.233.6800 • www.forsythparkinn.com 102 West Hall Street • Savannah, Georgia 31401 Photo by Angela Hopper Photography

Special Advertising Section

APPAREL

CATERERS

Ivory + Beau 912-200-4794 ivoryandbeau.com 7302 Abercorn St., Ste. 1B Page 23

Cha Bella and Earth to Table Catering 912-227-0136 cha-bella.com 102 East Broad St. Page 85

BleuBelle Bridal 912-355-2502 bleubellebridal.com 5500 Abercorn St., Ste. 42 Page 5

B. Matthew’s Eatery 912-233-1319 bmatthewseatery.com 325 E. Bay St. Page 23

Simon’s Formal Wear 912-352-1251 simonsformal.com 1909 E. Victory Drive D-104 Page 85

The Pirates’ House 912-233-2225 thepirateshouse.com 20 East Broad St. Page 89

CAKES/DESSERTS

Gigi’s Cupcakes 912-349-2778 gigiscupcakesusa.com/ savannahgeorgia 5521 Abercorn St., Ste. 100 Page 14

The River House 912-234-1900 savannahriverhouse.com 125 W. River St. Page 97 The Shrimp Factory 912-236-4229 theshrimpfactory.com 313 E. River St. Page 97

Flirt With Dessert 912-661-2662 flirtwithdessert.org 205G Johnny Mercer Blvd.

Page 108

Thrive Catering 912-232-5922 cateringbythrive.com thrivecatering@gmail.com Page 69

Leopold’s Ice Cream 912-234-4442 leopoldsicecream.com 212 E. Broughton St. Page 73

Love The

List

When it comes to making your Savannah wedding perfect, choose the experts who make Savannah Weddings possible.

The Whitman 912-704-6233 thewhitmansavannah.com 611 Whitaker St. Page 3

MollieCakes 912-352-8993 facebook.com/molliecakessav Page 85 Savannah’s Hall of Cakes 912-826-0096 savannahshallofcakes.com 217 N. Columbia Ave. No. 1, Rincon Page 4 Savannah Rum Runners Bakery 912-355-4177 savannahrumrunners.com 324 W. Bolton St. Page 90 Wicked Cakes 912-238-0040 wickedcakesofsavannah.com 38 Whitaker St. Page 103

COSMETIC DENTISTRY Scott A. Cohen, DDS, PC 912-353-9533 savannahdentalcentre.com 835 E. 65th St., Ste. 108 Page 103

DJS/ENTERTAINMENT

All About You Entertainment 912-897-0518 allaboutyoudjs.com Page 105 First City Events 912-695-0087 firstcityevents.com

EQUIPMENT RENTAL Amazing Event Rentals 912-927-2666 amazingeventrentals.com Page 90

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Special Advertising Section

Beachview Event Rentals & Design 912-510-3800/877-782-7368 beachview.net Page 40 EventHaus 843-407-0473 eventhausrentals.com Page 81

Sebrell Smith Designer Events 912-604-6852 sebrellsmith.com 8419 Ferguson Ave. Page 40

Savannah Special Events by Ranco 912-944-6200 rancotents.com 117 Westside Blvd.

Page 15

EVENT PLANNERS

Design Studio South 973-223-8871 designstudiosouth.com 418 E. Broughton St., 2nd Floor Page 2 Ivory + Beau 912-200-4794 ivoryandbeau.com 7302 Abercorn St., Ste. 1B Page 23

Posh Petals & Pearls 912-596-6064 poshpetalsandpearls.com ido@poshpetalsandpearls.com 404 E. Oglethorpe Ave. Page 14

VIVID EVENTS | Design - Management - Coordination 912-401-4560 vivid-event.com Page 32

FLORAL DESIGN John Davis Florist 912-233-6077 johndavisflorist.com 2430 Abercorn St. Page 91

Kato Floral Designs 912-508-1166 katoweddings.com 418 E. Broughton St. Page 19

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

Kiwi Fleur 912-352-0995 kiwifleur.com 714 Mall Blvd., Ste. 2 Page 73 Madame Chrysanthemum 912-238-3355 101 W. Taylor St. Find us on Facebook Page 12

GIFTS/GIFT REGISTRIES Cottage Shop 912-233-3820 cottageshopgifts.com 2422 Abercorn St. Page 99

INSURANCE

State Farm/Erica Herndon 912-354-6464 myneighborerica.com 3228 Skidaway Road Page 91

PHOTOGRAPHY/ VIDEOGRAPHY

Angela Hopper Photography 912-898-7878 angelahopperphotography.com Devin Olson Media devinolson.com See us on Facebook Greg Ceo, Savannah Wedding Photographer 912-238-5354 savannahweddingphoto.com greg@savannahweddingphoto.com Kelli Boyd Photography 912-441-0725 kelliboydphotography.com

Wendy Norman, Apt. B Photography aptbphotography.com aptbphotography@gmail.com Page 23

RESTROOMS

Nature’s Calling Inc. 912-232-6187 naturescallinginc.com

SALONS/MAKE-UP/SPAS 40 Volume 912-352-0077 40volume.com 3307 Waters Ave. Page 108

Bride’s Side Beauty 843-368-2660 bridessidebeauty.com Page 27 Spa Bleu 912-236-1490 spableu-sav.com 101 Bull St. Inside back cover

Sabrina Jasmin Photography

Dress from BleuBelle Bridal

EvEryonE will know that your dEssErts wErE “MadE with lovE”

3307 WATERS AVE. AT 49 T H ST. 4 0 VO L UM E .COM | 912.352.0077

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Every dessert is carefully crafted to meet the individual needs of each couple; made-from-scratch with only the freshest ingredients

Specializing in Wedding Cakes, Groom’s Cakes and Dessert Tables 912.661.2662 • flirtwithdessert.org 205 G • Johnny Mercer Blvd.

Special Advertising Section

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

Page 41

VENUES

39 Rue de Jean 912-721-0574 39ruedejeansav.com weddings@39ruedejeansav.com 605 W. Oglethorpe Ave. Page 17

SavannahIDo.com Visit Savannah 877-SAVANNAH 101 E. Bay St. Page 29

Armstrong Center 912-344-2953 armstrong.edu/armstrongcenter 13040 Abercorn St. Page 77

TRANSPORTATION

B. Matthewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eatery 912-233-1319 bmatthewseatery.com 325 E. Bay St. Page 23

Old Savannah Tours 912-234-8128/800-517-9007 oldsavannahtours.com Page 41 Old Town Trolley Tours 912-715-7722 trolleytours.com/savannah 1115 Louisville Rd. Page 109

The Ballroom at the American Legion 912-233-9277/912-675-0246 alpost135.com 1108 Bull St. Page 32

Botanic Garden at Georgia Southern University 912-871-1149 georgiasouthern.edu/garden 1505 Bland Ave., Statesboro (a few blocks from the main Georgia Southern University campus) Page 33 Botanical Garden & 1840 Reinhard Farmhouse 912-844-9337 savannahbotanical.org 1388 Eisenhower Drive Brockington Hall 912-223-1923 brockingtonhall.com 213 E. Hall St. Page 11 Cha Bella and Earth to Table Catering 912-227-0136 cha-bella.com 102 East Broad St. Page 85

Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens 912-921-5460 coastalgeorgiabg.org 2 Canebrake Road Page 13 Gingerbread House 912-358-8440 gingerbreadhouseevents.com 1921 Bull St. Page 11 The Harper Fowlkes House 912-234-2180 harperfowlkeshouse.com 230 Barnard St. (on Orleans Square) The Lake Club at Hilton Head Lakes 843-208-2220 hiltonheadlakeclub.com Harborside Drive, Hardeeville, South Carolina Page 18 Jepson Center for the Arts 912-790-8800 telfair.org 207 W. York St. Page 111

The Mackey House 912-234-7404 mackeyhouse.com 190 Red Gate Farms Trail Page 11 The Melting Pot 912-349-5676 meltingpot.com 232 W. Broughton St. Page 61 Mossy Oak Farm Weddings & Events 912-678-4748 mossyoakfarmweddings.com 684 Wilson Road, Brooklet Page 65 National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force 912-748-8888 mightyeighth.org 175 Bourne Ave., Pooler Page 81 Old Fort Jackson 912-312-3038 chsgeorgia.org 1 Fort Jackson Road Page 99

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Special Advertising Section

Owens-Thomas House 912-790-8800 telfair.org 124 Abercorn St. Page 111

Savannah Riverboat Cruises 800-786-6404 savannahriverboat.com 9 E. River St. Page 110

Red Gate Farms 912-777-9835 savannahsvenue.com 136 Red Gate Farms Trail Page 11

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)

Richmond Hill City Center 912-445-0043 richmondhillcitycenter.com 520 Cedar St., Richmond Hill Page 103 Savannah Distillery Ale House 912-236-1772 savannahdistilleryalehouse.com 416 W. Liberty St. Page 99 Savannah Quarters Country Club 912-450-2285 savannahquarterscc.com 8 Palladian Way, Pooler Page 61

Telfair Academy 912-790-8800 telfair.org 121 Barnard St. Page 111 Tybee Island Light Station and Museum 912-786-5801 tybeelighthouse.org 30 Meddin Drive, Tybee Island Page 95

Tybee Island Wedding Chapel and Grand Ballroom 800-786-5889 tybeeweddingchapel.com 1114 U.S. Hwy. 80, Tybee Island Inside front cover Wilmington Island Club 912-897-1612, ext. 101 wilmingtonislandclub.com 501 Wilmington Island Road Page 101 The Wyld Dock Bar 912-692-1219 thewylddockbar.com 2740 Livingston Ave. Page 101

VENUES/ ACCOMMODATIONS Andaz Savannah 912-233-2116 savannah.andaz.hyatt.com 14 Barnard St. Page 25

Beachview Bed and Breakfast 912-786-5500 beachviewbbtybee.com 1701 Butler Ave., Tybee Island Page 6

Forsyth Park Inn 912-233-6800 forsythparkinn.com 102 W. Hall St. Page 105 The Golden Isles 800-933-2627 goldenisles.com 1505 Richmond St., 2nd Floor, Brunswick Page 7 Hyatt Regency Savannah 912-238-1234 savannah.hyatt.com 2 W. Bay St. Page 105 Oceanfront Cottage Rentals 800-786-5889 oceanfrontcottage.com Page 1 The Presidents’ Quarters Inn 912-233-1600/800-233-1776 presidentsquarters.com 225 E. President St. Page 15

StayInSavannah.com 912-721-6013 Page 89 The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa 912-201-2200 westinsavannah.com 1 Resort Drive Page 8 The Whitman 912-704-6233 thewhitmansavannah.com 611 Whitaker St. Page 3

When it comes to making your Savannah wedding perfect, choose the experts who make Savannah Weddings possible.

Start YourLove Story with Us • Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions • Rehearsal Dinner Cruises • After Party Moonlight Cruises

• • • •

Anniversary Dinner Cruises Farewell Brunch Cruises Narrated Sightseeing Cruises Bridal Showers

Old, New, Borrowed and Blue…

Come set sail with the Riverboat Crew!

Contact our Wedding Specialist for more information and details.

9 East River Street | 912.232.6404 | www.savannahriverboat.com

Photo credit: www.phoenixfeatherphotography.com

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P H OTOGRAP

H OP K IN S H Y B Y S COTT

ever after

Shut Up and Dance

At the end of the day,

when the guests go home and the decorations come down, the details you’ve pored over will be printed and framed. All you’ll have left of your big plans will be your marriage and your memories, so make fun your priority from the first.

“Remember to relax and enjoy the party—you’ve earned it!” urges photographer Scott Hopkins of Hopkins Studios, whose primary goal is to capture emotion. The moments you savor will make the photos you treasure.

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Refined.

Southern Comfort

Savannah’s Wedding Destination Day Spa

Tailored packages for Wedding Makeup, Hair & Relaxation.

Relaxation and beauty before the big day for the bride and groom or the bridal party, on location makeup and hair, or even a private Yoga session! Spa Bleu is here to help you look and feel your absolute best for a day you will always remember.

Massage * Organic Facials * Thermal Body Treatments * Manicures & Pedicures * Spray Tanning * Makeup & More 101 Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401 • 912-236-1490 • www.spableu-sav.com