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HREE CHARLOTTE COUPLES GIVE AN INSIDE LOOK AT THEIR “I DO” DESTINATIONS, FROM RUSTIC ROMANCE IN THE ROLLING BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS TO AN INTIMATE QUEEN CITY GARDEN AFFAIR TO A POSH SEASIDE RETREAT. PLUS, HELPFUL TIPS AND TRICKS FROM A VETERAN WEDDING PLANNER AND INSPIRATION FOR THE PERFECT ENGAGEMENT PHOTO SHOOT. by Taylor Wanbaugh
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CEREMONY AND RECEPTION OCEAN FOREST GOLF CLUB, SEA ISLAND, GA. PHOTOGRAPHER JOHN CAIN PHOTOGRAPHY, DALLAS 94
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Though MARY AND TYLER first met in middle school, they didn’t catch each other’s eye until reconnecting at a wedding after college. But it was love at second sight — Tyler proposed on a trip to see the iconic New York City holiday lights in December 2019. The Charlotteans wed nearly a year later at the beautiful Ocean Forest Golf Club overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by close friends and family. Despite the early morning rain, the weather cleared for a gorgeous lawn ceremony. One of the perks to a small wedding? The couple was able to use the china from their wedding registry for the reception, complementing the vintage and bright table decor. Mary had a personal favorite: “The flowers were unreal.” The couple journeyed to the Caribbean island of St. Barts to celebrate their honeymoon.
THE DETAILS DRESS Mark Ingram Atelier (ceremony), Mestiza New York (reception), SHOES Miu Miu, BRIDESMAIDS’ DRESSES Sachin & Babi, GROOM AND GROOMSMEN’S SUITS Strong Suit, Taylor Richards & Conger, FLORIST Britt Wood Designs, Atlanta, RINGS Elizabeth Bruns, HAIR AND MAKEUP B. Lush Salon + Spa, St. Simons Island, Ga., CATERER Ocean Forest Golf Club, CAKE I do Cakes, Brunswick, Ga.
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CEREMONY AND RECEPTION VENUE OVERLOOK BARN, BEECH MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHER MEGAN SHEPPARD PHOTOGRAPHY, BOONE VIDEOGRAPHER BLUE RIDGE FILM PRODUCTIONS, NEWLAND 98
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PAULA, a 2020 Olympic Trials qualifier, and fellow running enthusiast FRANKLIN fell in love doing what they love: long-distance running. They met five years ago through Charlotte Running Club. The adventure enthusiasts got engaged on a hike at Asheville’s Graveyard Fields trail, so it was only appropriate that they return to western North Carolina to exchange their vows at the Overlook Barn in Beech Mountain. The couple got creative during the Covid crisis by splitting their reception at the rustic venue in two: one before the ceremony with family and one after the ceremony with mostly friends. One of Paula’s favorite memories of the day was dancing with their friends and family. “The bluegrass band was so fun, and we had some good laughs watching people out on the dance floor.” Afterward, the couple honeymooned in the U.S. Virgin Islands’ St. John.
THE DETAILS DRESSES Mikaella from Stillwhite (ceremony) and Needle & Thread from BHLDN (reception), SHOES Badgley Mischka (ceremony), Jeffrey Campbell for Anthropologie (reception), GROOM AND GROOMSMEN’S SUITS JoS. A. Bank, FLORIST Millefleurs, Valle Crucis, RINGS custom (hers) and Morrison Smith (his), HAIR AND MAKEUP Bella Bridal, CATERER Boonetown BBQ, Boone, CAKE Hallmark Cakes, Blowing Rock, FAVORS Pint glasses from DiscountMugs, SOMETHING BORROWED Paula’s Ippolita necklace was from her mom, SOMETHING BLUE Her mom also stitched Paula’s initials in blue onto an old family handkerchief and pinned it to the inside bottom of her dress, SOMETHING NEW Paula had new shoes and earrings, but her ceremony dress was recycled.
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photo by: ashley mcgrath
natural beauty, gracious hospitality, timeless memories northcornerhaven.com | @northcornerhaven | 704.778.8460
Let your love story take center stage in the heart of Uptown, set against our artful spaces draped with elegance, ambiance and Argentinian-inspired backdrops. With intuitive service and a passion for detail, we’ll deliver something truly exceptional—your love story brought to life. It will be everything you’ve ever imagined. And everything you never thought possible.
FO R E VE R B E G IN S HE R E . 704.372.1877 | GrandBohemianCharlotte.com
CEREMONY THE MCGILL ROSE GARDEN RECEPTION RICHEL AND MELISSA’S HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHER BRANDON GRATE PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHER LOYD VISUALS
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RICHEL AND MELISSA had a whirlwind romance, meeting at a friend’s New Year’s Eve party while ringing in 2018. A little more than two years later, Richel popped the question during a vacation in Hawaii. Due to Covid, Melissa says the wedding was anything but traditional, but it was extremely personal and intimate. Her favorite details were the vintage velvet sofa from Bee’s Vintage Rental and the flowers. Since Melissa is a sneaker stylist and lifestyle blogger, it only made sense for the couple to rock white Nike kicks on their big day. After the ceremony, the couple decided to host a home reception for their closest family and friends. The newlyweds spent their “mini moon” relaxing on Kiawah Island, S.C.
THE DETAILS DRESS Missguided, SHOES Nike, GROOM’S SUIT Indochino, FLORIST FiftyFlowers and Nectar, RINGS Cartier (his) and Helzberg Diamonds (hers), HAIR Ashley @ashdoesmyhair, MAKEUP VogaBeauty, NAILS TaLaya, Artisan Nail Studio, CAKE Suárez Bakery, SOMETHING BORROWED AND SOMETHING NEW The bride’s earrings and dress.
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T I M E L E SS , P E R S O N A L W E D D I N G P H OTO G R A P H S AS CO LO R F U L AS T H E T WO O F YO U. M E M O R I E S YO U ’ L L T R E AS U R E FO R E V E R
A M Y KO LO.CO M
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FO L LOW @ A M Y KO LO P H OTO
Full of timeless character, Southern charms and sophisticated comforts, Catawba Falls Events is considered a premier venue destination for weddings in the Carolinas. With a gorgeous lake, lush forests and beautiful views for sunsets and sunrises, the venue makes the perfect backdrop for a stunning wedding. The venue itself features cypress doors from the late 1600s, reclaimed red oak siding, and a massive floor to ceiling stone fireplace. The upscale bridal suite and groom’s room provide beautiful spaces for you to rela# as you prepare for your big day. Your wedding is fully customizable at Catawba Falls. Whether you choose to e#change vows indoors, on the terrace, or in the gorgeous new amphitheater with the breathtaking beauty of nature surrounding you, we'll help you craft the perfect ceremony and reception. Elegant. Southern. Timeless. We're ready to make your dreams come true.
www.catawbafallsevents.com
! p a T n o ss e
n i pp a H
Piaggio Ape Vintage Mobile Bar “Peaches” Free Standing Bar with Kegerator & 3 taps “Charlie”
Outdoor or indoor events - public or private
Perfect for any occasion…
Great for serving beer, wine, bubbly, cocktails, mocktails, Kombucha Piaggio Ape named “Peaches” has 7 taps and Free-standing bar with kegerator named “Charlie” has 3 taps. Both bars are customizable!
Weddings, birthdays, graduations, showers, anniversaries, company happy hour, business openings, luxury apartment resident events. The possibilities are ENDLESS!
Bubbles & Brews Charlotte | www.getcozybars.com | 336-253-2542 |
@bubblesandbrewsclt |
Get Cozy Vintage Mobile Bars
COMMERCIAL | WEDDINGS | PORTRAITS
www.timsouza.com | 703.868.0342
ONE OF THE FIRST STEPS IN PLANNING YOUR BIG DAY IS FINDING THE PERFECT PHOTOGRAPHER TO CAPTURE EVERY MOMENT — INCLUDING YOUR ENGAGEMENT. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A BACKDROP THAT PAINTS A PASTORAL PICTURE, A ROMANTIC HISTORICAL SITE, AN UPSCALE METROPOLITAN SKYLINE OR AN EDGY URBAN FEEL, THE QUEEN CITY OFFERS AN ARRAY OF STUNNING LOCATIONS FOR A GORGEOUS ENGAGEMENT PHOTO SHOOT.
What says Charlotte more than the famous uptown skyline? The upscale metropolitan feel of the city makes for a dramatic backdrop while adding a chic personal taste of home. With dozens of historic buildings, beautiful architecture and urban parks with scenic views, there are plenty of sites to choose from. Pro tip: For a bird’s eye view of the city’s soaring towers, head to the top of a nearby parking garage or a rooftop bar for a quick photo session. Photo by Katheryn Jeanne Photography
Just across the state line in Lancaster, S.C., North Corner Haven is a rustic dream, with gorgeous photo shoot opportunities around every, well, corner. The 600-acre family-owned farm boasts a hardwood forest, pastures, ponds and a five-acre event venue including a farmhouse and event barn. If you’re planning on holding your wedding at North Corner Haven, a complimentary engagement photo session is included. All other photo shoots are booked by appointment and based on an hourly rate. For more information, contact Becky Knutson at becky@northcornerhaven.com. Photo by Kristin Byrum Photography
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Circle M Farm by Beau Monde is located outside of Charlotte, in quaint Lincolnton. The eight acre farm offers a homestead for you and your guests to immerse yourselves in, as well as a beautifully restored barn for your main event. The barn seats up to 200 guests with farm tables, chairs, and limited décor included. The farmhouse sleeps as many as ten guests and allows you to unplug, invest in your guests, and truly relax. Circle M Farm is the perfect location for your entire wedding celebration including, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners or engagement parties.
• Multiple ceremony sites
• 3,600 square feet of indoor space with additional outdoor space
• Full service includes • On site bridal suite catering, bar, and planner
(980) 598-9772 // Events@BeauMondeVenues.com // BeauMondeVenues.com // @CircleMFarmEvents
Just 2 miles from center city, the historic bed-and-breakfast’s nearly 5 acres of beautiful gardens and grounds is the perfect backdrop for a romantic engagement shoot. The 101-year-old property charges a sitting fee of $350 (not including photographer), which allows couples to take pictures in any available indoor or outdoor space for three hours on Sunday through Thursday. Booking fills up quickly, so be sure to set up your shoot at least a month in advance. Contact Kaitlyn Hutzel at khutzel@dukemansion.org for more information. Photo by Robyn Dawn Photos
A half-hour drive from the center city, Jetton Park in Cornelius offers 104 acres of prime scenic spots overlooking Lake Norman. With nature trails, public beaches, gazebos and more, the possibilities are endless. Head to the beach at sunset for jaw-dropping colorful photos with perfect lighting. (And don’t be afraid to get your feet a little wet!) Admission is free, and permits are not currently required for photo shoots at the public park. Photo by Dawn Marie Photography
Located near the NoDa neighborhood, the former Ford Motor assembly plant built in 1924 now boasts 76 acres of mixed-use space, including offices, retail, restaurants, breweries and an artsy, edgy backdrop for engagement sessions. For small-scale shoots, photographers are not required to call ahead, but with current pandemic restrictions, only outdoor photo shoots are permitted. Popular spots include under the iconic water tower, by the food stalls with a skyline view and in front of one of the dozens of colorful murals around the property. Photo by Kharis Photography
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The Collectors Room by Beau Monde is a place to entertain, celebrate, laugh and enjoy loved ones. Situated in Charlotte’s bustling South End neighborhood, adjacent to one of South End’s top contemporary art galleries. The Collector’s Room is a renovated warehouse ready for your personal touch, perfect for your entire wedding celebration including, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners or engagement parties. • 11,000 sq ft of private event space • Flexible, open layout • Can comfortably handle as few as 25 or as many as 300 people • Gold chiavari chairs and tables provided for up to 150 guests • In the heart of South End and just a short walk to the Bland St. Station
(980) 598-9772 // Events@BeauMondeVenues.com // BeauMondeVenues.com // @TheCollectorsRoomCLT
Let us be your perfect venue. Whether it’s just you and your spouse, the wedding couple and close friends and family, or a larger gathering, Bonterra has everything you need for a beautiful wedding.
THE CELEBRATION CONTINUES AT BONTERRA.
1829 CLEVELAND AVENUE • CHARLOTTE, NC 28203 | 704.333.9463 | BONTERRADINING.COM
LOOKING YOUR BEST WHEN IT MATTERS MOST. Charlotte’s Best Hair Extensions for that Special Moment. We specialize in hair extensions to add volume and length for brides on that special day.
STUDIO
A SALON
Andrea Pampillonio, Owner 6832 Morrison Blvd, Suite 200 Charlotte NC 28211 704-650-2626 studioasalon.net
KELSIE ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY contact@kelsieelizabeth.com www.kelsieelizabeth.com instagram: @kelsieelizabethphotography
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Charlotte’s Formal Wear Headquarters Hickey Freeman ~ Samuelsohn Corneliani ~ Jack Victor ~ Paul Betenly Rentals by Jim’s Formal Wear
The Village at SouthPark ~ 4310 Sharon Road 704.366.4523 ~ www.PaulSimonCo.com
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Catering at Your Place or Ours
Celebrating 50 Years serving the Charlotte area! 1764 Norland Rd Charlotte, NC 28205 704-536-1500 www.smscatering.com
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GETTING ENGAGED TO THE LOVE OF YOUR LIFE IS ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING TIMES OF YOUR LIFE — BUT IT CAN ALSO BE ONE OF THE MOST OVERWHELMING. IT’S DIFFICULT TO KNOW WHERE TO START WHEN IT COMES TO PLANNING A WEDDING, WITH WHAT FEELS LIKE A MILLION TASKS TO ACCOMPLISH IN A MATTER OF MONTHS. WE ASKED TARA SKINNER, WHO OWNS A LUXURY DESTINATION-WEDDING AND EVENT-PLANNING FIRM WITH OFFICES IN SAVANNAH, GA., CHARLESTON, S.C., AND CHARLOTTE, TO HELP US PUT TOGETHER THE PERFECT CHECKLIST FOR QUEEN CITY COUPLES PLANNING THEIR UPCOMING “I DOS.”
12 OR MORE MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING YOUR WEDDING • BOOK A WEDDING PLANNER • BOOK PHOTOGRAPHER • SET A BUDGET • BOOK YOUR FLORIST • DRAFT A GUEST LIST YOUR BRIDAL AND BOOK YOUR • DETERMINE • FIND PARTY CEREMONY LOCATION AND RECEPTION VENUE
Pro tip: Begin with gathering your inspiration pictures and determining your preferred style and what you are wanting to achieve on your wedding day. After setting your budget, determine the top three priorities for your wedding day (ex: florals, photography and food). Keep these top three priorities in mind when deciding how to allocate your budget. If your budget allows, hire a wedding planner. They can help steer you in the right direction with vendors, negotiate pricing and, most importantly, relieve wedding planning stress.
EIGHT TO 10 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING HOTEL ROOM • REGISTER FOR GIFTS • BOOK BLOCKS, IF APPLICABLE • CREATE WEDDING WEBSITE BOOK RENTAL COMPANY • FOR ITEMS SUCH AS A TENT, AND ORDER YOUR • FIND WEDDING DRESS LOUNGE FURNITURE, TABLES AND CHAIRS, AND LINENS BOOK YOUR CATERER • LIGHTING COMPANY, • BOOK YOUR BAND OR DJ • BOOK IF NEEDED • BOOK YOUR VIDEOGRAPHER • RESEARCH WEDDING INSURANCE POLICIES YOUR RENTAL/ • BOOK GETTING-READY LOCATION Pro tip: Once you have booked your wedding venue and have set the date, you will be able to research available vendors and continue building and securing your wedding team. Depending on the time of year you are getting married (busy season versus off season), it never hurts to book these vendors as soon as possible. When determining which vendors you need, make sure to have all the necessary details from your venue. Will you need to bring in additional power, lighting, restrooms, etc.? This is also the time to celebrate with your loved ones: Register for your gifts, enjoy your engagement party and build your wedding website to keep everyone up to date on the details.
What will your Mint event look like? Whether you want city-chic vibes or a lush landscape for your next event, the Mint has you covered. Connect with our Special Events team today. mintmuseum.org/rent-the-museum 704.337.2000
Kristin Byrum Photography Katrina Hutchins Events Florals by The Bloom Room
mintmuseum.org
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FINE JEWELRY BRIDAL REGISTRY FINE TABLEWARE & GIFTS Complimentary gift wrap and local delivery!
SIX TO NINE MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING
and reception details. Envision each moment of your wedding day and plan accordingly.
WEDDING • ORDER STATIONERY
TWO TO 4 MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING
RECEPTION DETAILS • PLAN SUCH AS DINNER OPTIONS AND SEATING ARRANGEMENTS
• BOOK BAR SERVICES REHEARSAL DINNER HAIR AND MAKEUP • BOOK • BOOK LOCATION ARTISTS • HIRE YOUR OFFICIANT • BOOK CEREMONY MUSICIANS BRIDESMAIDS’ • ORDER DRESSES ENGAGEMENT • SCHEDULE PHOTOS • PLAN YOUR HONEYMOON WEDDING • SEND YOUR SAVE THE • HIRE TRANSPORTATION FOR THE DATES
FOOD AND • SCHEDULE CAKE TASTING
CEREMONY, RECEPTION, GETAWAY AFTER THE RECEPTION, AND FOR GUESTS, IF NEEDED
FOUR TO SIX MONTHS BEFORE THE WEDDING DRESS • BEGIN ALTERATIONS
GROOM AND • ORDER GROOMSMEN ATTIRE
WEDDING DAY • FIND ACCESSORIES SUCH
A BAKER FOR YOUR • BOOK WEDDING CAKE
AS YOUR VEIL, SHOES, UNDERGARMENTS, JEWELRY AND GARTER
THINKING ABOUT • START THE FLOW OF EVENTS FOR RECEPTION
AND PURCHASE • FIND WEDDING BANDS Pro tip: Begin thinking about the details of the day: timing, flow of events, and ceremony
LIGHTING • MAIL INVITATIONS • CONFIRM OPTIONS CEREMONY SERVICE • PLAN ANY WITH OFFICIANT • PURCHASE NECESSARY WEDDING DAY ORDER FOR NEEDS SUCH AS WEDDING • CREATE BRIDESMAIDS AND GROOMSMEN TO WALK IN
SIGNS, PROGRAMS, FAVORS, WEDDING PARTY GIFTS, GUESTBOOK AND CHAMPAGNE FLUTES
• PLAN REHEARSAL TIME • FINALIZE FLORAL DESIGN • PLAN GRAND EXIT FOR RECEPTION THE MENU WITH • FINALIZE CATERER (UNLESS IT’S A START WRITING YOUR SIT DOWN DINNER, THEN • VOWS, IF APPLICABLE YOU MUST DO THIS PRIOR TO SENDING INVITATIONS)
• • CONFIRM CAKE DESIGN FINALIZE BAR PACKAGE SELECTIONS
HAIR AND • SCHEDULE MAKEUP TRIAL • CONFIRM RENTALS
Pro tip: You’re getting close! It’s time to send those invitations and confirm any details you can without the final guest count. Finalize all of your floral needs: Double check to make sure you don’t miss any family florals, ceremony florals, cocktail hour and bar arrangements, reception florals and cake flowers. Start gathering your wedding day details as well: everything from personal items to wedding day details (framed photos, garter, bridal accessories) to gifts for your bridal party, parents and each other.
Serving the Charlotte Area for over 18 Years One-on-One personal consultations Unique Inventory — not available in other stores!
Open 7 days a week | BedazzledBridal.com Two Locations:
605 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia NC 28054
Valley Hills Mall 1960 HWY 70SE Hickory NC 28602
The gorgeous “Eternity” line by Jeena & Sasha is exclusive to Bedazzled! southparkmagazine.com | 119
ONE MONTH BEFORE WEDDING
• CREATE SEATING CHART • FINALIZE ALL PAYMENTS RSVP GUEST FOR YOUR MARRIAGE • CONFIRM • APPLY COUNT AND FINAL DETAILS LICENSE WITH ALL VENDORS
•
FINAL DRESS FITTING Your RSVPs should be returned (or on the way), and you can start finalizing the remaining details of the day. Don’t forget to apply for your marriage license. (Make sure to check any regulations and restrictions pertaining to this; is there a wait time, does the marriage license expire, etc.)
info@charlotteskylineterrace.com charlotteskylineterrace.com
TWO WEEKS BEFORE WEDDING “MUST HAVE” • CREATE SHOT LIST FOR PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY
• MAKE SURE YOUR VENUE,
CATERER AND FLORIST HAVE A FINAL HEAD COUNT
ALL FINAL • RECONFIRM FINAL SONG LIST DETAILS AND TIMING WITH • CREATE FOR DJ OR BAND VENDORS
WEEK OF WEDDING YOUR DRESS • HAVE STEAMED, IF NEEDED
The Skyline Terrace is perfect for any formal affair – but it makes for one incredible spot to Get Married! Located just outside of uptown Charlotte, you’ll enjoy one of the best views overlooking the city, while being secluded enough to ensure your special day feels intimate.
AND PAMPER • RELAX YOURSELF!
EMERGENCY • REHEARSAL • PROVIDE CONTACT TO ALL VENDORS WEDDING DAY • GATHER DETAIL ITEMS TO GIVE TO PLANNER OR VENUE
Your wedding day is almost here, and all the details are confirmed and ready to go. Trust in the vendors you have chosen to create a magical day for you.
WANT TO SEE YOUR WEDDING FEATURED IN A FUTURE ISSUE? CONTACT WEDDINGS@SOUTHPARKMAGAZINE.COM.
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Mention This Ad to Receive 10% Off 2 Rooms For Your Wedding Party
Located in the Heart of Historic Downtown Beaufort Multiple Indoor & Outdoor Venues & Onsite Accommodations 809 Port Republic Street, Beaufort SC | 843-379-4667 BeaufortInn.com | events@beaufortinn.com
Photography by: Hannah Alyssa Photography
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Designed to impress, this 1930s style building was restored back to its original luster as an elegant reception and special events venue located in the heart of the queen city.
Built in 1939, the Palmer Building’s original purpose was a fire school for Charlotte Firefighters until the mid-seventies when the firefighters moved to a new facility. Now on The National Register of Historic Places, the building and property is used to generate income for The Charlotte Firefighters Association.
2601 East Seventh Street Charlotte, NC 28204 Phone: 704-331-4737 Website: www.thepalmerbuilding.com Email: info@thepalmerbuilding.com
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