TB Fall 2023 FINAL

town bride FALL/WINTER 2023

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Where happily ever after begins.

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Phone: 864•304•0761 Laceemeadowsvenue@gmail.com www.laceemeadowsvenue.com

town bride

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tb

elcome to town bride, Anderson’s premiere bridal magazine featuring all things wedding. This semiannual magazine focuses on everything the bride and groom need to know to help make their wedding day one of a kind. Enjoy gorgeous pictures, informative articles, engagement and wedding announcements, tips and trends, as well as the top local wedding vendors. The magazine is published in the spring/summer and fall/winter. Issues are available in all vendor locations plus key distribution spots in Anderson, Easley, Starr/Iva, Greenville, and surrounding areas.

So here comes the bride ... town bride. Because there’s a bride in every town.

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6-7

RING WARMING CEREMONY

ON THE COVER: FALL BEAUTY

8

12

14-15

THE ART OF WINE PAIRING Elevate your wedding dinner

Photo by Will Malone

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Bride: Olivia McBride Gown: The Dressing Room South Bridal Assistant: Emma Erskine Flowers: Kris Simpson Venue: Tucker Farms Photographer: Will Malone

EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Nate Thomason Signal 43 Design signal43@live.com

WEDDING MUSIC

18

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Pamela Brownstein Southpaw Media pamelauhles@hotmail.com

WEDDING DRESS FASHION Open back dresses are gorgeous

PET-FRIENDLY CEREMONIES

Julie Bailes Johnson townbridemag@gmail.com (864) 221-9269

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

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16-17

PUBLISHER

Kim von Keller Kristine March Alexandria Stathakis Jarred Fenske

TIPS FOR GROOMS PLANNING THE REHEARSAL DINNER

CHARMING FALL FAVORS

TOWN BRIDE MAGAZINE, LLC

22-30 34-35

WEDDING ALBUM

TRAVEL TIPS

32-33 36-37

THE MINI-MOON

ANNOUNCEMENTS

ceremony

The Ring Warming

ADD REAL WARMTH TO YOUR WEDDING CEREMONY

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wedding only requires three people: the two getting married, and an officiant. Still, most people invite friends and family to celebrate the occasion, and friends and family show up to offer their support.

Unless they are in the wedding party, guests don’t do much except hug and smile and eat and dance.

But if your ceremony is intimate enough, they can all take part.

It’s called a ring warming. Also known as a ring blessing, your wedding rings are passed from guest to guest before your vows, giving them a chance to “warm” them with their hands and with their quiet prayers, thoughts, or good wishes. Many guests cite their participation in a ring warming as one of the most meaningful parts of a ceremony.

Barb Cely participated in her first ring-warming at a very special wedding in Portland, Oregon.

“When my son and daughter-in-law had their wedding celebration, part of the event was ring warming, which I had never heard of. It was very meaningful and heartwarming. Their wedding rings were put in a small sachet bag and were passed to each person present. We had a gathering of about 60 people seated around tables. Every person that was special to them that was able to attend held the rings and said a blessing over them. It was quite

6 | TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023

By Kim von Keller

touching, sweet, and just evoked emotions filled with love. It made the event all the more special and made all in attendance active participants in their celebration!”

Before including a ring warming in your wedding, there are many important considerations. First, ring-warming works best at smaller, more intimate gatherings.

The passing of rings among hundreds of people could add considerable time to your ceremony, and no couple wants their guests looking at their watches before the couple says, “I do.”

Second, the rings must be secured. While some couples choose to bind them with a simple

ribbon, it is always possible that a wedding band slips loose and rolls across the floor or gets lost in the grass or sand of an outdoor venue.

Decorative pouches, boxes, and pillows are available on internet sites such as Etsy to keep the rings safe until they are returned to the bride and groom.

Third, the couple must decide where to include the ring warming in the order of service. The easiest way is to place the rings on a table at the entrance of the ceremony venue with a sign explaining the ritual and an attendant charged with returning the rings CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

ceremony CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

to the bride and groom. Ringwarming signage can be found on internet sites such as Zazzle.

The ring warming may also take place during the ceremony itself.

Following the welcome by the officiant, he or she explains the custom, and the rings are passed from one guest to the next until the last guest has held the rings.

The officiant or an attendant then collects the rings and returns them to the bride and groom in time for the exchange of vows and rings.

If you are looking to add a real warmth to your ceremony, consider adding a ring warming. Debi Wallace was a guest at the Cely wedding and remembers the ring warming as a meaningful experi-

ence, not only with the bride and groom but with the other wedding guests as well “The bride’s mother stood to welcome everyone and explained that this small group of family and friends have an important role to play in the ceremony. She directed the wedding bands for the couple to be passed around to every person at every table as she spoke. She explained that as the ring was passed, each of us had the opportunity to pause, consider the couple and their future together, and offer a blessing for them. She acknowledged that whether we offered a prayer or a positive thought, that counted as a blessing, no matter our spiritual beliefs. She reminded us that, as witnesses to the event, we had a

special role to play, not only that day as we offered the blessing, but that we should continue to pray or send positive thoughts for the couple as they started and lived their lives together as husband and wife. Honestly, at that point the entire group of 60 people felt like one big family. Most of us didn’t know each other, but at that moment it felt like we were bound together with the bride and groom in a very intimate act of holding their rings in our hands and quietly, individually offering a special blessing for them. Whereas before the event we had all smiled and introduced ourselves kindly to each other, afterwards we were hugging and engaging in real fellowship with the bride and groom!”

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rehearsal dinner

Traditionally, the groom’s parents are responsible for paying for the rehearsal dinner.

Here are some ways to make planning less stressful.

Tips for Grooms Planning Rehearsal Dinners

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hen planning a rehearsal dinner, grooms should keep the following tips in mind: 1. Make sure to discuss who will be responsible for paying for the rehearsal dinner in advance.

2. Plan a budget for the rehearsal dinner and make sure to keep track of all of the costs.

3. Plan the menu in advance and give guests ample notice of any dietary restrictions.

4. Make sure to pick a venue that is large enough to accommo-

8 | TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023

date all of the guests.

5. Don’t forget to order any necessary decorations or party favors.

6. Ask the bride for her input when planning the rehearsal dinner.

7. Make sure to thank all of the guests for attending the rehearsal dinner.

Planning for a wedding can be overwhelming for grooms, especially when it comes to the rehearsal dinner. It’s important to understand who tradition-

ally pays for the rehearsal dinner and who is responsible for what in modern times. In general, the groom’s parents are usually responsible for paying for the rehearsal dinner, but the bride and groom may be expected to contribute financially as well.

Grooms should also keep track of all of the costs associated with the rehearsal dinner and plan a budget in advance. With these tips in mind, grooms can make sure the rehearsal dinner is a success.

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Anderson County Farmers Market & Pavilion 402 N. Murray Ave.

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wedding dress

Baby Got Back

By Kristine Ker-March

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edding dresses are so ornate these days.

From the embroidery to the embellishments to the materials and the appliques, they are actual works of art. What really takes my breath away is the back of the bridal gown. I never realized how many different styles there are. They’re delicate and feminine and stunning. For a more refined type style to a glamorous style, there are thousands you can choose from, and if you are trying to make an entrance, I have just the styles for you.

I’ve narrowed down my top three favorite looks that any bride would love. If you’re a bride that wants to show off your silhouette, I say go for the cowl back style. This style is for our audacious, fearless brides who are ready to dance and be flirty with their groom.

The cowl look is bold yet captivating. This particular dress shows a bit more skin, but I love the Vera Wang version, especially the one that Ariana Grande wore for her wedding.

She paid homage to Audrey Hepburn and it was so lovely. The dress was made from silk with a plunging back, empire waist and sculpted neckline.

She took a classic look, but made it

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An open-back wedding dress accentuates your curves and looks gorgeous.

very sexy and chic. Let’s all admit that Vera Wang is the MVP of all wedding designers. She does no wrong in my book.

My second look is the open back.

This look would be beautiful for a woodland fairy style outdoor wedding. A company called Grace Loves Lace make the most beautiful Japanese and Chantilly lace gowns ever.

The Pierlot gown is my favorite. Not only does it accentuate your curves, but the open back has a neck fastening and satin covered button detail. It’s also fit and flare so it makes your special day very comfortable. It’s effortless but definitely eye-catching and gorgeous.

My third and final pick is for the more demure bride. Savannah Miller Bridal makes just that. Her Zadie

gown is made from Italian matte crepe. With its contemporary sinking back, its clean lines make the modest look modern. It’s flattering and elegant. Minimalistic yet extremely chic.

Keep in mind if you’re going for a backless gown that most dresses are made with adhesive bras or built in cups, so not to worry. These gowns are made ready-to-wear, but the Ariana Grande gown, of course, was customized.

Like I always say, alterations are a must to make you feel confident and secure on your big day. What backless style are you going to flaunt this season? Happy Wedding Day y’all!

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wedding music

Live music connects you and your guests

By Jerrad Fenske

Preparations are required for your big day, whether you have it all in your grasp or trustworthy helpers assisting you in pursuit of your wishes. Santa is not the only one with a list of people, gifts and plans requiring considerations long before the big day.

Whether your nuptials are in your backyard, in town or, a far off destination, you need plans to proceed up the aisle to fulfill your hopes and dreams.

What is music to you? Is it enjoying your favorite artists, your soon-to-be spouse playing their guitar and singing to you or the great opportunity to hear music live? When we have our ear buds in during our

When someone makes music for you, there is a bond that happens because of intentions and vibrations in the sound. workout or singing with our friends at karaoke or choir, there is something that touches and moves us.

Volume and vibrations are two different things. When we are listening to prerecorded music, we are in charge of the volume so that it is a soft hum in the background to keep us relaxed or volume up during your favorite tune that expresses who you are, were or want to be. The music changes you. Whether it is your thoughts or feelings, it brings you to a different place, sometimes a place you would rather be. Music has a great power!

Vibrations are felt at a

deeper level within you. When someone makes music, playing or singing, they are sharing a part of themselves with you and there is a personal connection that does not happen when listening to something already recorded. Previously recorded music affects you, no doubt, but it affects you because of your current state of being. When someone makes music for you, there is a bond that happens because of intentions and vibrations in the sound.

When you are considering your music for your wedding, consider this and how important it is to you.

In your preparations you are entrusting every aspect of your wedding to someone and their personal skill: your dress maker, caterer, florist and hopefully musician. Whether or not these things are being done by professionals or by family and friends who love you, someone is creating something personal for you.

Use technology wisely, but when people can be present and truly live, feel the vibrations!

Jerrad Fenske is a freelance musician and teacher with 40 years of experience in wedding ceremonies. Visit his website at www.jerradfenske.com.

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food + wine

ART of WINE PAIRING the

FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE WEDDING RECEPTION

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wedding is a celebration of love and union, a day that marks the beginning of a lifelong journey for the couple and their guests. As the atmosphere brims with joy, laughter, and emotion, every detail becomes significant, including the culinary experience. Among the myriad decisions to be made, choosing the right wines to complement the wedding menu stands as an art that can elevate the entire celebration to a new level of sophistication and enjoyment. Welcome to the world of wine pairing for wedding receptions, where flavors dance harmoniously to create lasting memories.

Understanding Wine Pairing

Wine pairing is the delicate process of matching the right wines with specific dishes to enhance the overall dining experience.

It involves striking a balance between the flavors, textures, and aromas of both the wine and the food. When executed seamlessly, wine pairing can create a symphony on the palate, intensifying the enjoyment of both the cuisine and the wine.

The Role of Wine at Wedding Receptions

At wedding receptions, wine serves as more than just a beverage; it acts as a social lubricant, a conversation starter, and a reflection of the couple’s taste and style. The right wine pairings can transform a meal into an unfor14 | TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023

gettable sensory experience that lingers in the memories of guests long after the last dance.

Factors to Consider

Menu Composition: The key to successful wine pairing lies in understanding the flavors, ingredients, and preparation methods of the dishes on the menu. Lighter wines generally go well with lighter dishes, while heavier wines complement richer and more robust fare.

Acidity and Balance: Consider the acidity of both the wine and the food. Wines with higher acidity can cut through fatty or rich foods, providing balance to the palate.

Flavor Profiles: Seek wines that harmonize with the flavors of the dishes. For instance, a citrusy Sauvignon Blanc can enhance the freshness of seafood, while a bold Cabernet Sauvignon can stand up to a hearty steak.

Region and Terroir: The region of origin can offer cues about the wine’s flavor profile. Traditional pairings with local cuisine can be a charming touch.

Personal Preference: While pairing principles are helpful, remember that individual taste varies. The couple’s favorite wines and the preferences of their guests should also be taken into account.

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food + wine CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

Classic Wine and Food Pairings for Wedding Receptions Champagne and Sparkling Wine: Often associated with celebrations, sparkling wines like Champagne, Prosecco, or Cava make splendid aperitifs and pair well with canapés and appetizers.

Chardonnay: A versatile white wine, Chardonnay’s buttery notes complement dishes like roasted chicken, seafood, and creamy pasta.

Sauvignon Blanc: Known for its bright acidity, this white wine shines alongside salads, seafood, and light vegetarian dishes.

Pinot Noir: A medium-bodied red wine, Pinot Noir’s elegance pairs gracefully with dishes like salmon, mushroom-based dishes, and even poultry.

Cabernet Sauvignon: This bold red wine marries well with hearty meats, such as beef tenderloin, lamb chops, or braised short ribs.

Rosé: With its delicate flavors, rosé can be a versatile option, matching with charcuterie boards, salads, and lighter entrées.

Adding a Personal Touch

A wedding is a reflection of the couple’s personality, and the wine selection is no exception. Consider incorporating wines that hold sentimental value, such as those from regions you’ve traveled to together or bottles that mark important milestones in your relationship.

Expert Advice

Consulting with a sommelier or wine expert can be invaluable when making wine pairing decisions. Their expertise

can provide insights and suggestions that elevate the dining experience to a truly exceptional level.

Wine pairing for wedding receptions is an intricate dance that requires an understanding of flavors, a touch of creativity, and a commitment to creating an unforgettable experience. By carefully selecting wines that harmonize with the menu and reflect the couple’s taste, the celebration can be elevated to a new level of elegance and sophistication. As guests raise their glasses to toast the newlyweds, they’ll not only be celebrating love but also indulging in a culinary journey that will remain etched in their memories for years to come.

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TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023 | 15

wedding favors

Embrace the rich colors and cozy atmosphere of autumn and incorporate these elements into your wedding day favors.

Charming Favors PERFECT FOR FALL CELEBRATIONS

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s the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold, and there’s a slight chill in the air, it’s undeniable that fall has arrived. For couples who are planning their wedding during this enchanting season, there’s a unique opportunity to embrace the rich colors and cozy atmosphere that autumn brings. One delightful way to do this is by choosing wedding favors that encapsulate the spirit of fall and provide guests with a memorable token of your special day.

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EMBRACING AUTUMN’S PALETTE When it comes to fall weddings, the color palette is a crucial element.

Consider incorporating these warm, earthy hues into your wedding favors for a seamless seasonal touch. You might opt for personalized items such as mini pumpkins or leaves in your wedding colors, or perhaps choose items like candles or coasters with autumn-inspired designs. The colors and designs will not only reflect the essence of fall but also remind your guests of your beautiful celebration.

EDIBLE DELIGHTS Edible favors are always a hit, and during fall, there’s an abundance of delectable options that will warm the hearts (and stomachs) of your guests.

Consider offering jars of locally sourced honey, infused with flavors like cinnamon or apple, or small bottles of maple syrup. These treats not only echo the flavors of the season but also offer a touch of rustic charm. Caramel apples or mini pies in decorative CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

wedding favors made from seasonal fruits can be a delightful option. Alternatively, you might assemble DIY kits for hot chocolate, complete with cocoa mix, marshmallows, and cinnamon sticks. These thoughtful, handcrafted favors will showcase your dedication to making your guests feel truly cherished.

packaging are also wonderful choices that will surely be savored.

COZY COMFORTS Fall is synonymous with coziness, so why not share that comfort with your guests through thoughtful wedding favors? Blankets or pashminas in autumn colors can be a heartwarming and practical gift, especially if your wedding is outdoors or in a chilly location. You could also provide scented sachets filled with dried autumn herbs or potpourri, allowing your guests to bring the scents into their homes.

NATURE-INSPIRED KEEPSAKES Celebrate the beauty of nature during the fall season by offering wedding favors that echo its elements.

Acorn-shaped ornaments, leaf-printed candles, or wooden coasters with intricate leaf patterns can be wonderful tokens that your guests will cherish. These nature-inspired keepsakes will serve as a lasting reminder of your love story intertwined with the captivating spirit of fall.

Personalized items such as mini pumpkins or leaves in your wedding colors make for nice favors for guests.

DIY DELICACIES If you’re feeling crafty, consider putting your personal touch on the wedding favors by creating them yourself. Homemade jams or preserves

PERSONALIZED PERFECTION Adding a touch of personalization to your fall wedding favors can make them all the more special. You might include a custom tag with your names and wedding date, or even a short heartfelt message. This personal connection will make your guests feel appreciated and enhance the sentiment behind the gift.

As you plan your fall wedding, remember that the favors you choose are an extension of your love story and the enchanting atmosphere of the season. By selecting items that capture the essence of fall, you’ll create a memorable experience for your guests and ensure that your celebration is a truly unforgettable one.

TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023 | 17

pets

Wedding Dogs

Can your ceremony include furry friends? A pet attendant says yes!

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By Kim von Keller

oday’s weddings are more personal than ever, featuring music, readings, and ceremonies that break with tradition. They also include more participation from family members… especially the four-legged kind. Town Bride recently spoke to a pet professional to learn how dogs can be part of wedding celebrations in ways that are safe and comfortable for everyone.

Jordyn Herwig is the owner of Tails and Veils, a pet attendant service in Charleston, South Carolina. Also known as pet concierges or pet wranglers, pet attendants help couples incorporate their pets into their weddings. While she is open to working with all kinds of pets, so far, Jordyn has only worked with dogs.

Interest in her services has grown over the two years she has been in business, especially post-pandemic.

“People’s pets are becoming a more integral part of families than 5, 10, 20 years ago,” she says. “More people in their 20s and 30s are getting dogs before they have kids and spending more time and money on them than ever before. Couples want to make their weddings more personalized, and what is better than having a furry pet in attendance?”

During the planning period, pet attendants work with other wedding vendors to make sure everyone is aware of the special guest.

“My services include a free meet and greet, transportation to and from the venue, and coordination with other vendors,” Jordyn says. “I communicate with the wedding coordinator for logistics, the timeline, and getting the dog in the right spot at the right time. I work closely with photographers on day-of strategies to get the dog to behave and pose while being most efficient. I also work with the venue coordinator to ensure we follow all pet rules and regulations.”

It is important to consider your dog and your venue when planning your wedding. A dog’s size, age, physical condition, and temperament determine how he or she can participate in your celebration.

Not every dog can sit quietly during a ceremony or mingle during the cocktail hour, but Fido or Peanut

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At left: Bride Josie de la Guardia holds Shaggy. Photo by Jess Henderson. At right: Riley is dressed and ready to go.

can feature in the first-look photographs or “help” the bride and bridesmaids during hair and makeup.

Many venues may only allow pets to attend an outdoor ceremony, unless your ceremony is at a dogfriendly hotel.

Jordyn firmly believes that when there is a will to include a dog, there is always a way.

“I had the pleasure to work with a sweet 14-year-old terrier mix who was medically complex and the bride and groom’s whole world. Many family members said that it would be too hard for the dog to be in the wedding and that they should get a pet sitter because he had medications he needed to be given and special harnesses needed. The bride had other ideas; she was going to have him in the wedding one way or another! After the wedding, they said they had not seen him so happy in months, and now they have pictures that will last forever.”

An experienced attendant can make sure that your pet is a part of your wedding celebration, no matter the hurdles. “My job is to incorporate your pet into the wedding, even if that means being creative to assist with high anxiety or high energy dogs,” Jordyn says. “I really believe that if you want your dog to be part of your wedding, we can make it happen.”

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wedding album

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Unveiled!

wedding album

TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023 | 23

wedding album

Love & Laughter “How wonderful life is while you’re in the world.” — ELTON JOHN 24 | TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023

CRYSTAL COFIE PHOTOGRAPHY

TOWN BRIDE SPRING 2023 | 29

wedding album

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— SHAKESPEARE

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CRYSTAL COFIE PHOTOGRAPHY

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wedding album

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travel

Mini-Moon THE

Sometimes, less is best

By Kim von Keller

W

hen Palmer Cantler and Brent Gregory were planning their September 2019 wedding, they knew that they wanted a European honeymoon.

But they also knew to expect even more stress than is usually associated with a wedding.

“We were being married in my hometown of Johnson City, Tennessee,” Palmer says. “I was living in Knoxville, Tennessee, Brent was working in Raleigh, North Carolina, and we wouldn’t be combining households in Knoxville until the eve of the wedding. With so much going on, we decided to save our honeymoon for our first anniversary and do a minimoon instead.”

Like a honeymoon, a mini-moon is a post-wedding getaway for the newlyweds.

The difference is that a mini-moon is usually shorter, less expensive, and closer in proximity to the couple’s home. Mini-moons are perfect for couples who are waiting for their PTO, or personal time off, to match, couples whose wedding is during a season that is not right for their preferred destination, or couples who want time to save a bit more for the honeymoon of their dreams.

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In the Gregorys’ case, the mini-moon turned out to be an excellent idea.

“I was so stressed before the wedding,” Palmer says.

“In addition to Brent’s move and driving back and forth to Johnson City, my grandmother had just passed away.

Just before the wedding, I broke out in hives. So the day after our wedding, which was lovely, we drove back to Knoxville, slept in our own bed, and on Monday morning traveled to Miramar Beach on the Florida panhandle.”

They stayed in an Airbnb, cooked together, and took a lot of afternoon naps.

“It was just Brent and me, and it was quiet,” Palmer says. “We weren’t at a big resort or tourist destination, and there was no obligation to go, go, go or to visit important sites. After being a long-distance couple, we got to be together. In the evenings, we would go to dinner,

and in the mornings, we would take our Mr. and Mrs. coffee mugs down to the beach to watch the sunrise.”

Because of COVID, the European honeymoon they had planned for 2020 didn’t actually take place until 2022. But despite the delay, they are still so glad they started their marriage with a quiet, beachside mini-moon.

“When we finally went to Europe, we started in Paris, traveled to Budapest, spent a week on a Danube River cruise, and ended in Munich,” Palmer says. “In Paris alone, I logged more than 20,000 steps in a day. Delaying our honeymoon in favor of the mini-moon gave us extra time to plan the trip and save for it as well. If we had taken our honeymoon right after the wedding, we wouldn’t have enjoyed it nearly as much!”

TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023 | 33

travel

Spend time together and embark on

Outdoor Adventures

By Alexandria Stathakis

A

ll couples are different, and so are their ideas of the perfect honeymoon or bachelor/bachelorette getaway. If you, your betrothed, or your friends love the great outdoors, consider spending time at a state or national park. I did not grow up hiking or visiting state or national parks, so it has been a real treat to me to be introduced to these natural wonders over the past few years Last year friends and I participated in a South Carolina State Parks challenge to visit two trails on the Palmetto Trails every month. This provided us an opportunity to see South Carolina in a whole new way. Every trail was well maintained, and the sites are beautiful.

The added benefit is that we were outside soaking up the sun, and then we often treated ourselves to a nice lunch in the community we were visiting. When the challenge was completed, I was concerned that our monthly hikes would end, and we would get passive about being in the natural wonders. However, that was not to be.

This year we are going to a national park or national historical site once a quarter. We are so blessed in this country to have these places to visit. I have been impressed with each journey this year and wanted to highlight them to you and hints about planning your trips. Each of our trips this year have been over a long weekend and within driving distances of Anderson, so perfect if you are looking for a mini vacation. Make sure that you visit the websites before your visit to make reservations.

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Whether taking a weekend trip together or planning an adventurous honeymoon, spending time in the outdoors is a great way to connect.

travel

Cumberland Island, located off the coast of Georgia near the South Carolina border, is only accessible by ferry. Some of the attractions on this island include wild ponies and the Dungeness ruins, a mansion once owned by the Carnegie family.

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Cumberland Island National Seashore

This is a barrier island off Georgia’s southeast coast that you get to by passenger ferry. The ferry requires a reservation that you obtain from the Cumberland Island website. We spent the day there — it was cold and raining, and we still had a great time. On the island are the remains from a Carnegie mansion and several tours you can take.

There’s also a pristine beach, and wild horses that roam free. You can also rent bikes to ride around the unpaved roads and tree-covered trails. You can book a campsite in advance and stay for a couple nights, but you have to be able to transport all your camping gear from the ferry to the campsite, which is located very close to the beach.

There’s a very nice, expensive hotel on the island, The Greyfield Inn, where John F. Kennedy Jr. celebrated his wedding to Carolyn Bessette. We just spent the day there, but to learn more about The Greyfield Inn as a honeymoon destination, visit greyfieldinn.com.

Mount Le Conte in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Mount Le Conte is the third highest peak in the park and the highest completely within Tennessee. To stay in one of the lodges, you must enter a lottery or go on the waiting list. Designed for hikers, it’s a small resort with accommodations that were much nicer than I expected. As the LeConte Lodge explains on their website, “It is accessible only by hiking and is the only place in the Smoky Mountains where a visitor can sleep overnight in a snug permanent structure. There are no roads that lead to the Lodge. There are five hiking trails that lead to the Lodge ranging in length from 5.0 miles up to 9.1 miles.”

When you see the views, you will understand the attraction of Mount Le Conte. Some groups we met go every year, so it is very popular. If I can do it, most anyone can, but it is a hike. Consider Mount Le Conte as a bachelor or bachelorette destination if you’re looking for an active weekend in the great outdoors. It could also serve as a honeymoon destination if you’re less about luxury and more about com-

muning with nature and like-minded guests. For more information, visit lecontelodge.com.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

I have decided the historical parks add an extra dimension to your trip.

Cumberland Gap is located on the borders of Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia, and is the first trail that settlers took West in their explorations. The cave tour there also requires you to make reservations a day in advance, but is well worth the planning. There’s more than 85 miles of trails, and if you are willing to walk a good distance, you can stand in three states at once. There are several places to stay in the area but to my surprise the Holiday Inn had great service. For more information, visit nps. gov/cuga/index.htm.

The trips listed above are just suggestions. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to explore and visit these natural wonders. Whether it be your honeymoon, a location for a bachelorette party or a mini family trip, it is always a good time to be outside!

TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023 | 35

wedding announcements

BROWN - BAILES TO WED IN NOVEMBER Terra and Gerald Brown and Gary and Megan Brown are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Jamie Lynn Brown, to Samual Lee Bailes.

Jamie is the granddaughter of the late James Henry Stidham and Alma Stidman. Sam is the son of the late Jane Catherine Bailes of Anderson and Shane Garrison of Florida. He is the grandson of the late Dr. and Mrs. Lucius Charles Bailes of Anderson.

Matron of Honor will be Kerri Beth Randitsas, and Maid of Honor will be Allyson Waters. Bridesmaids will be Tara Brown, Riley Spurling, Bradleigh Robinson and Savana Coffee. Best man will be Shane Garrison and groomsmen will be Joby Garrison, Ethan Brothers, Wesley Nation, Blake Martin and Fisher Fleming.

Jamie earned her BS in Elementary Education and works as a fifth grade teacher at Cedar Grove Elementary School in Williamston.

Sam is a member of the United States Marine Corps Reserves and works as a lineman for Pike Electric.

The wedding and reception will take place on Nov. 18, 2023, at The Terrace in Abbeville, SC. After the wedding, the couple will make their home in Belton.

Give them the very best.

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36 | TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023

wedding announcements

SAYLORS-BAILES TO WED IN DECEMBER

Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Saylors of Abbeville are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Lauren Chandler Saylors, to Dr. Christopher Steven Bailes. Chandler is the granddaughter of the late William and Gwendolyn Saylors and the late John and Evelyn Mundy.

Christopher is the son of Dr. and Mrs. George Steven Bailes of Spartanburg, and the grandson of the late Dr. and Mrs. Lucius Charles Bailes of Anderson and Dr. and Mrs. John Braun of Charleston.

Maid of Honor will be Magen Hall, sister of the bride, and flower girls will be nieces of the bride Zoey Grace Hall and Everly Jo Saylors. Best man will be Dr. George Steven Bailes, father of the groom, and ring bearer will be Charlie Bailes, nephew of the groom.

Chandler graduated from North Greenville University and works for Samaritan’s Purse Disaster Relief. Christopher graduated from North Greenville University and the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and completed his residency in Family Medicine at AnMed in Anderson. He is currently with Biltmore Medical Associates in Asheville, North Carolina.

The wedding is planned for Dec. 17, 2023, at The Duncan Estate in Spartanburg. The couple will honeymoon in Cancun, Mexico, then make their home in Asheville.

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TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023 | 37

38 | TOWN BRIDE FALL 2023

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