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Downtown Greenville Garden Ceremony & Rooftop Reception: as seen on Martha Stewart Weddings

destination wedding Greenville South Carolina with springtime outdoor reception and outdoor ceremony

Today we reflect on how Carey and Jared’s wedding day was simply perfection, from start to finish. Initially, when we started the process of planning their entire experience, they expressed their desire for intentionality. Further, their day included special features that illustrated their love for one another, their family, and their loved ones.

They selected bespoke boxed invitations featuring custom watercolor and illustration details from Mon Voir. These hand-calligraphed beauties set the tone for the celebration that was to come.

These high school sweethearts ensured this celebration would be a thoughtful experience for every guest. The couple wanted their guests to experience more of Greenville—since they have such a great love for the area themselves. Each guest received a curated welcome box, complete with items that nod to Greenville’s downtown.

As the ceremony began, Carey and her father walked down the aisle to “Edelweiss” from The Sound of Music. Formerly, her dad sang this song to her when she was younger, so it was the perfect choice at the ceremony. Additionally, the day was made even sweeter with the bride’s grandfather presiding over the ceremony. 

Secondly, guests made their way to the rooftop reception. Upon arrival, guests delighted to see the couple’s precious dog, Bear, painted on a custom banner. Correspondingly, this banner also highlighted the two custom signature cocktails: the “martin-ini” and the “Bear”.

This site was under construction throughout the entire wedding planning process. Therefore, planning this beautiful day took both creativity and logistical prowess. Given that, it was more than worth it for these sweet, selfless clients! “I cannot say enough about Allie and the team!! They are simply amazing!! We had a 5 month engagement process and Allie worked extremely hard to make every single dream come true for us! We LOVED working with them and I would definitely recommend them to any of my friends/family! My mom and I were able to relax and enjoy this time instead of being completely stressed. Thank you!!! :)” – Carey

Amanda Bryant // Anna Shackleford // Archer Limousine, LLC // Artistic i Wedding // Beckon Events // Chandler Lollis // Cotton Rouge // Courtyard Marriott // Greenville Wedding Music // Industry Event Rentals // Jeff Bradt Video LLC // Jonathan Caleb // Mo Sol // Mon Voir // Off Duty Officers // Professional Party Rentals // Urban Petals // UP on the Roof

Real Wedding: Rachel & Chas

Southern charm and graceful elegance aptly illustrates Rachel and Chas’s beautiful day at Old Edwards Inn. Chas proposed to Rachel at Chapel Hill, North Carolina with a cherished double diamond ring that has been passed down in his family for over a hundred years. This couple values a strong connection with their loved ones and family heirlooms. For instance, Rachel held her mother’s beaded purse and kept her grandmother’s embroidered handkerchief close to her heart that day. 

Rachel’s bridesmaids wore soft blue dresses that coordinated with the gentle shade of powdery blue of her Badgley Mischka heels. Chas and his groomsmen kept their look classic, with sleek tuxedos and timeless black bow ties. Timeless hydrangea and roses were selected in classic white with touches of blush for bouquets and centerpieces alike. Subtle touches of soft blue were found in the table linens, under scalloped white chargers and personalized menus for each guest.

First, a string quartet added a romantic charm as the guests made their way to their ceremony seats. The service was bountiful in faith, love and joy as the newly weds exchanged their heartfelt vows. Afterward, guests made their way to cocktail hour to mingle and relax. Rachel and Chas’s fur baby, Panda, made an appearance via custom cocktail stirrers in the signature drinks.

Next, the reception delighted guests with lush botanicals that embellished the reception. White blooms and native greenery punctuated the spaces, bringing the outdoors in. Moreover, this natural feel was enhanced by the floor to ceiling glass accordion windows. These opened fully to blur the transition of greenery from inside to out.  The grand floral installation hung gracefully above the wedding party head table, ornamented with floating tealight candles. In addition, King Louis chairs were a fitting choice for the head table in its distinctive grandeur. 

The dance party that followed dinner emphasized an upbeat energy of spirited entertainment. Later, glow sticks were passed around the dance floor, delighting guests as they danced under the glow of the chandeliers. In a surprise twist, the groom conspired with the band to perform a song for his new bride: Taylor Swift’s “Lover”. Finally, at the end of the night, guests with sparklers and sent the happy couple off with a farewell of good wishes. 

Beckon Events | Couture Cakes | Deans’ Duets | Floressence | Latia Curtis Fine Art Beauty | Old Edwards Inn |
Olivia Griffin Photography | Pen Weddings | Perfect 10 Band | Studio R 

Lonesome Valley Editorial: as seen on Wedding Sparrow

The wild, hidden nature of this setting is reminiscent of the magnificence of national parks like Yosemite Valley. The mountains of western North Carolina evoke a spirited elegance, and inspires this ethereal editorial shoot at Lonesome Valley. Peach and blush hues of the decor manifested the sunset tones which softly reflected on the surrounding canyon faces. The encompassing deep greenery of the forest captured the natural beauty of the region and inspired the earthy details of the tablescape design. 

Bohemian pampas grass befit the ceremony space with organically untamed beauty. The bride’s natural look is inspired by the landscape, replete with glowing skin and hair in loose waves. Her gown holds a reined in feel, with lace motif and full sleeves; the back providing a dramatic surprise with architectural lines and open back. The flourishing bouquet of blooms featured local dahlias, oak leaf hydrangea, and colorful, unexpected pokeweed to deliver a romantic complexity. 

A delicate linen runner was gently layered atop the patterned linen, adding depth. The tabletop was adorned with textural blooms and seasonal fruits. The loose napkin fold & place setting embodied the shoot’s vision: beautifully effortless sophistication. Whitewashed x-back chairs brought a fresh feel for the ceremony space, as well as the intimate reception. 

The petite wedding cake, set atop a simple glass pedestal, transcends from loosely painted floral details to lifelike, hand-crafted sugarpaste roses, leaves and delicately weaving stems. Though clearly a work of art, the confection straddles the line of effortless romance and dedicated detail that is woven throughout the entire shoot.

Alanah Textiles // Anna Brown Studio, formerly Olive Juice Press // BBJ Linen // Beckon Events, formerly I Do // Belle Maquillage // Chris Isham // Directions USA // Hale’s Jewelers // Hayley Paige // Katelyn Pinner Studio, formerly ModFete // Lonesome Valley // Matt & Meredith Films, formerly Matt Rouse Films // Professional Party Rentals // Richard Photo Lab // Tessa Pinner Cakes // White Magnolia Bridal

Real Wedding: Maggie + Allan

Maggie and Allan celebrated their love on a crisp January day with the warmth and comfort of loved ones. Their style spoke of deep hunter green and monochromatic shades, with gold metallic accents to compliment Maggie’s modern-inspired theme. From the very start, the couple’s impactful hand calligraphed green invitation envelopes set the tone for the celebration. Clear acrylic ceremony seating and black+ metallic abstract patterned linens highlighted the bride’s taste for contemporary design. In addition, the rich green saturated throughout her decor, florals &  bridesmaids’ attire to add a seasonal swash of color. 

Maggie’s bouquet featured her favorite botanicals of anemones, garden roses, and soft hued silver-dollar eucalyptus greenery. Similarly, her bouquet was complemented by Allan’s boutonniere, which featured a cream-colored ranunculus. The altar was adorned with a climbing collection of roses and carnations, which sprung up from the ground in an organic, open arch that embraced the couple. 

Her trumpet satin gown was embellished with a gorgeous rhinestone belt to match her classic drop earrings and hair piece. Although a brief, light flurry of snow made its way to the photo session, it didn’t stop the newlyweds from taking advantage of the beautiful sun shining through to make for beautiful sunset pictures. Maggie slipped on Allan’s grandmother’s fur stole to stay warm—and also timelessly stylish—for the photos. 

The reception was a celebration to remember. From the look of the reception to the band’s musical stylings,  guests were delighted at every turn. From singing and dancing to hugs and laughter, everyone joined together to celebrate the sweet couple. Finally, Maggie and Allan made a grand exit as they rode away in a vintage 1935 Chevrolet car to complete their perfect wintry wedding day.

Augusta Jones // Avenue // BBJ Linen // Beckon Events // Bella Blooms Fine Art Floral Design // Birdy Grey // Blue Nile // Chris Isham Photography // Greenville Wedding Music // Industry Event Rentals // Latia Curtis Fine Art Beauty // Made By Maness // Minted // Professional Party Rentals // Table 301 // The White Magnolia Bridal // The Black Tux // Up and Up Weddings


Tori + James: as seen on Style Me Pretty

Like countless other couples, Tori and James’s wedding changed dramatically from the original plan; choosing to elope in her parents’ backyard on their original wedding date, they saved their large celebration for a year later—when her friends and family could all be vaccinated and gather safely once more. The couple was surrounded by those closest to them—including their fur baby, Banjo!

To tie back to their wedding day, the anniversary and public reaffirmation vows were nothing short of perfection—filled with serendipitous love, family heirlooms, and elegant florals. The sailcloth tent overlooked the site where they originally wed, nestled in the backyard of Tori’s parents’ home. The special day was sprinkled with cherished family tokens passed down through generations, as well as personalized touches reflecting the happy couple. Tori donned a dazzling brooch passed down from her great grandmother with a matching set of golden pearl earrings and necklace. Her wedding band paid homage to her passion for botanicals, and embodies a flower embracing her solitaire engagement ring. Tori’s reception gown reflected her bright personality in beaming yellow hues.

Glittering gold and vibrant colors brought an abundance of life and joy to the couple’s garden party-inspired celebration. Each facet of the decor embraced a meaning that held true to their passions. To highlight Tori’s well known affinity for reading, beautiful custom made floral bookmarks served as personalized escort cards. These were finished with gold tassels on champagne glasses—and were waiting for guests’ discovery and enjoyment. The vintage style floral illustrations were reflected in the table numbers (named after each flower). The custom bar details furthered the motif as guests headed to enjoy refreshments. The lattice patterned linens and bright, organic florals ensured the event conveyed a sophisticated spring garden party.

Ensuring each guest could celebrate comfortably, the entire event was held al fresco, and custom masks (in the colors and fabrics of the event) were crafted & available. Although the pandemic caused the couple to pivot from their plans, their optimism and effervescent charisma enabled them to bring their dream wedding to life. 

Beckon Events // Couture Cakes // Deborah Crouch // Elevated Eye Films // Friends Farm & Catering // GSP Limo // Ice Box // Industry Event Rentals // Kara Nash Designs // Kati Rosado // La Tavola Fine Linens // Latia Curtis Fine Art Beauty // Paisley & Paper // Professional Party Rentals // Reani // Southern Valet // The Plush Flush // Uptown Entertainment

Leah & Kellan: as seen on Style Me Pretty

Modern in aesthetic, Leah and Kellan’s day embodied an overall neutral color palette, complete with various shades of sands, taupes, and tans. Guests were delighted to find custom designed invitation suites, sealed in hand calligraphed envelopes in the mailbox for the special day. Each element of the invitation suite was printed in gold foil, embellished with a shimmer of the specialty stardream quartz paper of the main invitation. 

Mid-December lends itself to cooler weather, but Leah and Kellan’s wedding day could not have been more perfect. In fact, the day could have been mistaken for a warm Spring day! The glistening sunshine embraced the happy couple in love and joy.

The ceremony took place in the bright and open lobby of Avenue. Clear ghost chairs provided a unique lightness to the spacious venue in its modern design. An impressive backdrop filled with florals and lush greenery adorned the altar place where the couple exchanged heartfelt vows. The top of the installation took a minimalist approach in the light placement of organic sprigs of greenery and dried leafed branches. This minimalism was met with an abundance of dusty mauve and neutral toned roses that anchored the bottom half––making it a stately array of floral elegance. Leah’s sleek gown combined with her cathedral-length veil brought effortless beauty to her classically modern ceremony.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, guests made their way up to the sixth floor for the reception. Guests were welcomed by a stunning floral arrangement that blossomed at the base of the head table and ultimately became a focal point for the evening. Subtly patterned tone-on-tone linens and luxurious oatmeal colored velvet linens graced the tables throughout the space. The lounge areas were centralized to the room, giving guests a cozy resting space after hitting the dance floor. Cafe lights provided a soft glow over the outdoor rooftop area, creating an inviting space for guests to mingle throughout the night.

Leah and Kellan, along with their family and friends, danced the night away! When it came time for the big send off, guests made their way down to the lobby and were handed a yummy snack from one of the bride and groom’s favorite restaurants––Chick-Fil-A! Once they received their sandwich, they were given a streamer wand to wave during the sendoff, and shortly thereafter Leah and Kellan exited amidst their jubilant guests. It was the perfect end to a perfect day celebrating the new Mr. and Mrs. Nix! 

Avenue // Baxter Wynn // Beckon Events // Couture Cakes // Deans’ Duets // GSP Limo // Ice Age Ice Sculptures // Jackie Maness // Kara Nash Designs // Latia Curtis Fine Art Beauty // Matt + Meredith Films // Professional Party Rentals // Steel Toe Stiletto // Table 301 Catering // Tenth and Grace // The Black Tux

Real Wedding: Hannah & Preston

The Farm at Old Edwards Inn is tucked away within the mountains of Highlands, North Carolina. For Hannah and Preston, it was the perfect location for their celebration. Due to the social climate, they were forced to move their special day to the late fall. While it was originally planned for the spring, the bride had deep down always wanted a fall wedding. It was a blessing in disguise. 

Hannah is an artist in the bustling NoDa arts district of Charlotte; so when it came to the decor, color was imperative. The bride aimed to mix modern with traditional designs; the various soft seating was no exception. Each lounge had a combination of modern and traditional furniture pieces that came together seamlessly. The sofas were even accented with colorful pillows––bringing in their vivid palette, while also making the space feel more cozy and inviting. 

Color ruled the day. Rust and blush colored velvet linens draped the tables. Impressive floral installations, with hues of pink, blue, and chartreuse, accented the center chandelier in the main space as well as both fireplaces. Chartreuse taper candles graced the tablescape, adding in the perfect pop against the rust-toned linen. Each guest’s place was set with modern, gold-rimmed chargers and traditional, cut crystal water goblets. Completing every place setting were subtly patterned napkins, lovingly hand sewn by the mother of the bride.

Both the ceremony and reception spaces were punctuated with personal touches nodding to both the bride and groom. At the ceremony, an abundance of candelabras and candlesticks from the bride’s family collection accented the altar area. A beautiful Bible, once belonging to Hannah’s great-grandmother, was set atop the altar. On each coffee table throughout the reception, there were placed coffee table books and framed photos of the bride and groom and their families. The bride wanted their guests to feel like they were sitting in the couple’s living room. Hannah also painted two large panels to serve as the band’s backdrop; these panels coordinated with her art that was printed onto the backs of their main invitation.

This sweet couple wanted their day to be so personal, and they certainly achieved their goal. Each guest could see Hannah and Preston’s personality shine through the entire event. As the night progressed, they all danced the night away. Hannah even surprised everyone with a quick dress change, mid-way through the reception. At the end of the night, they were sent off through a tunnel of sparklers and excited guests, and were chauffeured away in a family friend’s vintage Land Rover. It was truly an authentic celebration, from start to finish!

Beckon Events // Betty Dress Boutique // By Farr Design // Cake Envy // Carolina Herrera // Dessy Group // Edgewire Music // Elevated Eye Films // Industry Event Rentals // Kate Asire Flowers // Latia Curtis Fine Art Beauty // Lauren Rosenau Photography // Manolo Blahnik // Old Edwards Events // Professional Party Rentals // Soothing Reflections // The Black Tux // The Finns Band

Kayla + Trey: As Seen on Magnolia Rouge

On a beautiful September day, in the gardens at the Farm at Old Edwards Inn, Kayla and Trey exchanged their vows in front of their closest family and friends. From the very beginning, the religious elements of their ceremony were of utmost importance to the bride and her family. Knowing that Kayla had originally wanted to get married in a church setting, we tucked pews amidst the trees of the Orchard for the guest seating and brought in a single cross to serve as the backdrop of the vows. The picturesque space was immediately transformed and conveyed a sense of reverence and sacredness as guests arrived and began to fill the space. The ceremony itself was incredibly faith-filled with Kayla and Trey partaking in communion together as a couple, followed by inviting their parents up to pray over them as they entered into their marriage. 

With an intimate sized gathering, the reception was held in the Orchard House—a space typically reserved for the ceremony. The look was built upon a foundation of warm neutrals, with touches of soft pinks and dusty blues peppered throughout the space. To help make the still large and airy space feel even more intimate, tall wooden beam structures were brought into the space and softened with a soft taupe colored draping. Flowing floral and greenery installations were artfully crafted and incorporated to help soften the space even further. 

Every single detail of the day was given great thought by the bride, aiming to focus on intentionality for each aspect. Serving as a nod to the years that the bride’s family spent living in Asia, chinoiserie toile details accented the chargers at each place setting, as well as the vellum wrap in which their letterpress invitation suite was enclosed. Both Kayla and Trey, along with their families, work in the automotive industry, specifically having a history with Chrysler. To incorporate this special facet of their lives, Chrysler car keys were attached to personalized leather keychains and set at each individual place setting, serving as the guest’s place card for the evening. Upon their arrival to Highlands, guests were even greeted with welcome baskets full of delightful goodies; including a car shaped chocolate, as a nod to the industry that brought the two of them together. 

Under the soft glow of the crystal globe chandeliers, guests dined and danced all night to celebrate the newlyweds. When it came time for the celebration’s end, the couple exited through a sparkling tunnel of cheering guests to their getaway car, a vintage champagne colored Chrysler––the perfect way to conclude such a special evening.

Beckon Events // Berbank Events // CE Rental // Couture Cakes // Crisp Event Rental // Every Little Letter // Industry Event Rentals // Kate Asire Flowers // Latia Curtis Fine Art Beauty // Madeline Trent Photography // Matt + Meredith Films // Old Edwards Events // Professional Party Rentals // Soothing Reflections // The Trolley Co.

Meredith + Bill: as seen on Carats & Cake

Built on a foundation of soft creams & olive green, Meredith and Bill’s elegant wedding design shone through each detail of their day. The custom-designed invitation suite kicked off the excitement for each guest. Featuring a modern font in gold foil and enclosed with a velvet ribbon, they tied in perfectly with the couple’s fall nuptials.

That morning, bridesmaids filled the mother of the bride’s house to get ready. Staying true to their personalities, the bride said, “I kept looking at these cute matching robes, and knew it wasn’t very ‘us’. We like to be relaxed and comfortable, so we just leaned into it and went full granny”. Dressed in vintage style housecoats, Meredith & the girls were a true combination of humor and grace. When it came time for their ceremony, Meredith’s lace gown and delicate cathedral-length veil were the perfect classic accessories.

Dramatic draping and luxurious crystal chandelier installations transformed the main reception space. Above all, it softened the modern & industrial vibe of Zen and created a romantic ambiance to the entirety of the event. The head estate table featured tall floral arrangements, full place settings, and a sheer runner. In addition to the guest tables, an abundance of lounge seating peppered the various event spaces. Near the dance floor, matching lounges served as the perfect perch for guests looking to enjoy the entertainment. 

At the far side of the room, the band was in front of an impressive custom backdrop, featuring greenery and gold light panels. They kept the guests on their feet (and on the stage) all night long! Sweet Gentry stole the show at the reception; the bride’s beloved pup made his appearance on the cocktail napkins. Midway through the dancing, Todaro’s pizza, the bride’s favorite, enhanced the party’s energy—it served as the perfect mid-party snack! At the conclusion of the event, the newlyweds climbed into a vintage car to be whisked away into the night. 

Vendors:

BBJ Linens // Beckon Events // Berbank Events // Couture Cakes // Industry Event Rentals // Kate Asire Flowers // Latia Curtis Makeup + Hair // Men of Distinction // Ooh! Events // Professional Party Rentals // Shackleford Films // Victor Villatoro Photography // Zen

Styled Inspiration: Rockwood Lodge

Nestled deep in the Appalachian Mountains is Rockwood Lodge. Set with a backdrop of mysterious fog, this venue had an air of intrigue. Sitting atop one of the highest peaks in Highlands, North Carolina, the lodge was fully immersed in the clouds for this moody, misty shoot. Normally sporting 360 degree views of the mountainscape, the venue had surprising weather that wasn’t part of the original plan. However, the fog perfectly completed the vibe of relaxed opulence we looked to achieve—and set this experience apart from anything else. The unexpected approach to the tablescape design and bespoke stationery pieces were the finishing touches needed to make this shoot standout.

Both Brandon and Katelynn were dressed to befit the occasion. The elegant Willowby by Watters Saros gown featured billowing sleeves and layers of soft cream and blush tulle. Embroidered and embellished floral details came with the occasional bird silhouette––one of the smallest, yet sweetest details. Meanwhile, the groom’s tone on tone black lapel popped with his autumnal boutonniere to compliment the bride’s hand-tied bouquet.

Captured at the height of the foggy day, the intimate ceremony on the lawn emanated a magical feel. Fully enveloped within the moody mist, we embraced the wild feel the weather brought. Set amidst a low crescent of florals, the outdoor ceremony felt private and utterly reverent.

Table design defines so much for an event. Firstly, we anchored the look with an oversized crystal chandelier set casually on one end of the table. This arresting visual was a clear nod to the relaxed, opulence of the shoot. Next came blue velvet linens, sheer runners, and dijon napkins adorning the table. Keeping with the color palette were intricate grey-blue water goblets accenting each individual place setting. Colorful florals grew from the base of the table up and wove organically through the ornate chandelier. Black candle stands completed the tablescape and brought a slight modern look to this romantic shoot. This contemporary touch was softened by peach-toned taper candles. Old Edwards Events provided the culinary offerings: delectable charcuterie boards with cascading seasonal fruits, and show-stopping salads.

In addition, the intricate watercolor detailing within the stationery suite blended seamlessly with the venue’s mountaintop location. Personalized place cards and dinner menus on hand-torn paper further elevated the tablescape specifically.

BBJ Linen // Beckon Events // Champagne Maker // Directions USA // Enemies of the Average // Hale’s Jewelers // Kristen Henderson Calligraphy // Latia Curtis Fine Art Beauty // Madeline Trent Photography // Old Edwards Events // Professional Party Rentals // Rockwood Lodge // Sugarcloud Bakery Co. // White Magnolia Bridal Greenville // Willowby by Watters