The 2019 Bridal Guide

2019

H I LT O N H E A D , B L U F F T O N & T H E L O W C O U N T R Y

Bridal Guide

! s e Y

FRIENDS AND FAMILY CREATE A PERFECT WEDDING MOTHER OF THE GROOM MAKEOVER

WE HAVE YOUR FASHION ADVICE

MODERN TWISTS ON OLD TRADITIONS

THE LATEST TREND

Registries HONEYMOON

LOCAL WEDDINGS Bridal 2019 001-005 BRIDAL-Cover.indd 1

|

FLOWERS

|

ENGAGEMENT RINGS 1/22/19 1:01 PM

Bridal 2019 001-005 BRIDAL-Cover.indd 2

1/22/19 1:01 PM

Bridal 2019 001-005 BRIDAL-Cover.indd 3

1/22/19 1:01 PM

HERE COMES THE

bride & Groom W

hether you’re planning a wedding in the Lowcountry now, dreaming about one someday or just watching

PHOTOGRAPHY BY W PHOTOGRAPHY

a friend obsess over hers, we're here to help. With

gorgeous surroundings and luxurious accommodations, Hilton Head and Bluffton offer world-class wedding experiences. Many talented wedding professionals also work in the Lowcountry. The 2019 Bridal Guide is comprehensive, providing advice on wedding styles, trends and ways to connect with local professionals.

We created it to help you navigate the wedding process from the engagement ring all the way through late night snacks after the

Anuska Frey- publisher anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com

reception. Inside, you’ll draw inspiration from detailed stories and

table of contents 6 | FASHION Say yes to the dress.

10 | NEW SPIN ON OLD TRADITIONS Make old customs modern.

12 | FLOWER POWER Wedding blooms add color 14 | MOTHER MAKEOVER A groom's mom is transformed.

18 | FAIRY TALE WEDDING Two teachers marry on HHI. 24 | OUTDOOR NUPTIALS Our engagement contest winners wed.

stunning photography of real local weddings. You’ll find complete listings and profiles of local wedding industry vendors. Whether

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB KAUFMAN

you are the bride, the groom, a family member or a close friend of

Carol Weir-editor carol@hiltonheadmonthly.com

the engaged couple, we’re thrilled to be by your side throughout the planning process. This guide is available at key rack distribution points, bridal shops and other high-end stores across the Lowcountry. You can also pick up a copy at the 2019 Hilton

30 | ENGAGEMENT RINGS Many options are in style.

32 | CHILDREN IN WEDDINGS Should your wedding include kids?

34 | PLANNING CHECKLIST What to do when.

Head Area Bridal Show, which is Feb. 17 at the gorgeous Belfair Clubhouse in Bluffton. For the bride on-the-go, a mobile-friendly digital guide is available online at hiltonheadbridalshow.com.

Please enjoy this idea book and think of it as your direct connection to a network of wedding professionals who look forward to meet-

36 | HONEYMOON REGISTRY Contributing to the couple's trip is the latest trend.

38 | ADVERTISER DIRECTORY Find your wedding professional here.

ing you and bringing your vision to life.

MEDIA ENTREPRENEUR

Marc Frey marc@hiltonheadmonthly.com

SENIOR CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sasha Sweeney sasha@hiltonheadmonthly.com

PUBLISHER Anuska Frey anuska@hiltonheadmonthly.com

ART & PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Michael Lupi mike@hiltonheadmonthly.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF Carol Weir carol@hiltonheadmonthly.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Allyson Venrick

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Rebecca V. Kerns rebecca@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-816-2732

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS W Photography, Taylor Rae Photography, The Happy Bloom, Chris Isham Photography, Jo Rackliff Photography, Landon Jacobs

Cathy Flory cathy@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-384-1538

CONTRIBUTING WRITER Robyn Passante

Majka Yarbrough majka@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-290-9372

monthly

Mary Ann Kent maryann@hiltonheadmonthly.com 843-384-9390

SUBSCRIPTIONS

TM

address 14 Westbury Park Way, Suite 200, Bluffton 29910 offices 843-842-6988

Bridal 2019 001-005 BRIDAL-Cover.indd 4

fax 843-842-5743 web hiltonheadmonthly.com

One-year (12-issue) subscriptions are $12.

843-785-1889 or subscriptions@hiltonheadmonthly.com

1/22/19 2:56 PM

Bridal 2019 001-005 BRIDAL-Cover.indd 5

1/22/19 1:01 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | FASHION

Wedding Fashion

What to wear when you say ‘I do’

BY ROBYN PASSANTE

S

ome brides have had the exact dress they want to wear on their big day in mind for years. Others don’t have a clue and can scarcely envision themselves waltzing down the aisle in a fancy dress.

The good news? There truly is a perfect dress for every personal preference. But when it comes to wedding attire, there’s a lot to think about. And we’re not just talking about accessorizing.

In addition to dressing themselves, the bride and groom must also coordinate the clothing of an entire ensemble of loved ones — and most likely those loved ones come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The challenge can feel daunting — even hopeless after a full, fruitless day of shopping with your bridesmaids — but if you keep an open mind and a willingness to compromise, it can actually be fun.

For a little inspiration, here are some of the trends that experts say we’ll be seeing in bridal fashion this year.

The open boat neckline, equal parts sweet and sexy, is popular this year.

BRIDES The biggest wedding of 2018 may have been held overseas, but its American bride wowed crowds on both sides of the Atlantic.

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has inspired this year’s crop of non-royal brides, with elements of both her wedding dress and reception dress seen on runways this fall. The open boat neckline, equal parts sweet and sexy, is popular, as is the sleek silhouette of her gown. It’s a style, sans embellishments, that’s being reproduced by many mainstream designers.

Gowns with sleeves — whether romantic, billowy and sheer or delicate tapered lace — are still making a strong statement. And brides looking for comfort along with sophistication are in for a treat, as the wedding jumpsuit is even bigger this year. Beautiful bridal fashion with pockets for lipstick and tissues is a win-win-win! Fun and fanciful mini dresses also are making a strong showing. This is a particularly great option for Lowcountry brides opting for a beach wedding, or those who are just looking to beat the heat and set a mood through wedding fashion that’s a little less formal.

6 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 006-009 BRIDAL-Fashion.indd 6

1/22/19 2:58 PM

GROOMS Guys who want to be trendy but not sweaty are in for a challenge, as the three-piece suit is what’s hot — literally, in the Lowcountry — for 2019. Hilton Head Island grooms can pull off this classic look without suffering from the heat if they’re mindful of their fabric choices.

A straight or tapered trouser leg and a slim jacket are an ofthe-moment choice when it comes to a tailored look. And don’t underestimate the magnitude of just the right accent to pull the whole look together and show off your personality. Funky socks and colorful bowties FTW!

2019 Bridal Guide 7

Bridal 2019 006-009 BRIDAL-Fashion.indd 7

1/22/19 3:00 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | FASHION

Today's bridesmaids often wear different dresses in the same hue or color family.

For men, trouser legs are straight or tapered this year and jackets are slim.

BRIDESMAIDS Bridesmaids will have a much easier time looking and feeling great than their counterparts from previous decades. Gone are the days of insisting every woman standing up for the bride wear the exact same dress and shoes. Today’s bridesmaids often opt for varied dresses in the same hue or color family, and the results are stunning. This year look for more embroidered embellishments, along with luxurious fabrics like velvet. And what started as a bridal trend for wedding gowns has drifted to the bridesmaids: Bishop, bell and balloon sleeves in sheer fabrics add a bit of fashion-forward fun to their dresses. And while we’re on the topic of bridal fashion trickling down to bridesmaids, get psyched — the bridesmaid jumpsuit is trending. There are lots of complementary colors and styles that will allow you to suit up your whole party, and then party!

GROOMSMEN The slim fit is on trend for every guy in your wedding party, so keep the trouser leg straight or tapered. A slim jacket looks sleek and makes for a masculine, athletic silhouette. The groomsmen are there to look good but make sure their main man stands out, so choose complementary colors and have fun with subtle patterns for shirts and ties and not-so-subtle socks. No sneakers with suits, lads, and leave the regular notch lapel in the boardroom. For

8 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 006-009 BRIDAL-Fashion.indd 8

1/22/19 3:00 PM

the big day, opt for a peaked lapel or even a shawl lapel. And it’s more than fine to leave black behind: More grooms and groomsmen are choosing navy, neutral or even bright shades like purple or burgundy.

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE It can stress a mom out to find just the right dress for her daughter’s big day, but take heart: Mother-of-the-bride dress trends for this year will make shopping fun. Consider capes, for instance: They’re popping up in varying lengths on some of the trendiest dresses for moms. And that makes sense — mothers are superheroes, after all. Metallics continue to be a popular color choice for their modern and sophisticated look. And off-the-shoulder necklines will be popular for moms too; it’s an elegant look and can ensure your mom’s gown complements the rest of the bridal party without being matchy-matchy with the bridesmaids.

2019 Bridal Guide 9

Bridal 2019 006-009 BRIDAL-Fashion.indd 9

1/22/19 1:05 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | NEW SPIN ON OLD TRADITIONS

Everything Old is New Again New spins on old wedding traditions

BY ROBYN PASSANTE

“T

he night we got engaged in September 2017, our initial thought was ‘We want to do something different for our wedding,’” says Valerie Ruppel (nee Amodeo) of her May 12, 2018 wedding to Patric Ruppel. For the New York couple, that ultimately meant a destination wedding at beautiful Belfair Plantation beneath a canopy of grandiose oak trees. But many couples can create “something different” for their wedding on a much smaller scale.

Take, for instance, the many traditions incorporated without much thought into countless weddings every year, from the cake topper to the party favor. Is it really even a wedding if the bride doesn’t toss a bouquet of flowers over her shoulder and watch single women in the crowd dive for it?

Yes, it is. And today’s brides and grooms are recognizing that not every wedding tradition needs to be included or followed to its historical end. In fact, taking some new spins on old traditions can be a great way to express your personality and love story as a couple, and to give your wedding guests something new to rave about.

Chapel last year. “I have always loved the idea of ‘love birds,’” Casey said, “and now we have the birds on our mantle as a sweet reminder of the day.”

CAKE TOPPER Little plastic brides and grooms have graced the tops of wedding cakes for generations, but these days couples are choosing other options to give their cakes some personality. Words can make a strong statement, from the laser-cut toppers that spell out the happy couple’s names or such celebratory phrases as “Just married!” and “Best Day Ever!” Others opt for a single letter, the couple’s new shared last initial, usually in a font that’s been carefully chosen for all weddingrelated writings. Another popular option is to go with animals on top – tiny swans, which mate for life, for example, or a couple of love birds. That’s exactly what Casey and Joshua Tierney did when they married at St. Andrew

FIRST DANCE The first dance is a sweet moment for many and often kicks off the wedding reception with a solid dose of sentimentality. But there are tons of shy brides and grooms with two left feet who’d rather not have the entire room of people watch them sway in a circle.

Instead, couples can opt for the first dance to be their special song but request all married couples join them on the dance floor.

Alternately, the couple could choose to be serenaded by a professional musician or band performing their favorite song while they sit in special chairs and take it all in. Or opt for a brief slideshow of pics from your lives and love story to play for guests while “your song” is being played.

BOUQUET TOSS The bouquet toss heralds to a time when many single young women yearned for the day they, too, would find their grooms. But singling out all the single ladies as “the next one to get married if you catch the bouquet” today can have women diving away from the flying flowers — for myriad reasons.

Couples are moving the bouquet toss/garter tradition into the 21st century by opting to do things like “pass the bouquet,” where the bouquet is given to the next couple with set plans to walk down the aisle, or to the couple in the room who have been married the longest.

The bride and groom can also pre-select someone unsuspecting and give the second, “toss-able” bouquet to them for their contributions to the wedding or for just being a hero in their lives. Still another lovely twist is to give every lady in attendance a single flower.

10 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 010-011 BRIDAL-New Spin.indd 10

1/22/19 3:02 PM

GUEST BOOK Traditionally a simple, elegant book in which each guests signs his or her name, the guest book is a wedding’s attendance record. It’s typically something couples make sure to have sitting on a table somewhere — and then often never look at it again. But there are more creative options that give the tradition new meaning and assure that you will indeed peruse the “book of names” at a later date. For instance, take the guest book created by bride Katherine Palmeri for her Palmetto Bluff wedding to Mike Palmeri in 2016.

She included a picture of each person on his or her own page with their name at the top, so guests had a specific space on which to write a personal note to the couple.

“I wanted to keep it simple and really personal,” she says of the book, which became a sweet memento from their day.

2019 Bridal Guide 11

Bridal 2019 010-011 BRIDAL-New Spin.indd 11

1/22/19 3:02 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | FLOWERS

Love is Blooming Flowers express your wedding’s personality

BY R.L. HAMILTON

F

lowers are a highlight of every wedding’s aesthetic, but they can also be a great way for brides to express their personality and creativity. In 2018, greenery — like palm leaves, ferns and moss — was the standout trend, adding a charmingly natural touch while also being cheaper than flowers. But 2018 is long gone, and in 2019, flowers are making a comeback.

This year’s colors are elegant whites and light grays, along with rich jewel tones that will add a sophisticated air to your wedding. Floral statement pieces are also more popular than ever — think dramatic wall decorations, elaborate arches, and even ceilings covered in blooms and greenery.

And while many brides are opting for big blooming décor, they’re toning down their bouquets and centerpieces to be tastefully minimalist.

ONLINE INSPIRATION Pinterest is your friend if you need some floral inspiration.

The variety of beautiful bouquets, innovative ideas and pretty things in bloom can encourage creativity when it comes to flower choices. Blogs like Snippet & Ink, Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes and Brides also have a ton of ideas, and some allow you to search by color scheme, season or favorite flower. To save money, look for ways to use floral decorations from the ceremony, such as bouquets and altar arrangements, at your reception site.

COLOR-CODED This year’s colors are elegant whites and light grays, along with rich jewel tones that will add a sophisticated air to your wedding. Here are a few suggestions on blooms to add those tones to your bridal bouquet, depending on the season: • Winter: Cedar, lemon leaf, succulents, garden roses, lisianthus, burgundy orchids and tallow berries • Spring: Poppies, tulips, jasmine, delphinium, lilacs, sweet peas, peonies and ranunculus • Summer: Freesia, dahlias, carnations, poppy pods, wax flowers and hydrangeas • Fall: Thistle, garden roses, winter eucalyptus, nigella and brunia berry

12 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 012-013 BRIDAL-Flowers.indd 12

1/22/19 3:04 PM

MAKE IT PROFESSIONAL Hire an experienced local professional to help keep you and your flowers on budget. Rarely does a bride do the flowers herself — almost all hire florists to bring their visions to life. When interviewing florists, ask to see a portfolio of their work. Many professionals also have online galleries or post their work on Instagram, making it easy to view a large variety of the centerpieces and bouquets they have assembled. Look for a florist whose style fits your vision as well as your budget. Make sure you ask about any deposits, fees and payment schedules before signing a contract. Selecting the flowers can be one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding, since it’s an opportunity to incorporate your theme, your season and your color scheme all in one place. Whatever your budget, you can feel confident that you can pull off something beautiful, because you’re sure to find a local professional who will be more than happy to make your dreams come true.

This year's colors are elegant whites and light grays.

Make sure you know what will be in bloom when you'll be getting married and choose accordingly.

SEASONAL IS SENSIBLE While greenhouses make it possible to get whatever flowers you’d like any time of year, your costs will skyrocket if you select blossoms that are out of season. Make sure you know what will be in bloom when you are getting married and choose those options for your centerpieces, boutonnieres, bouquets, petals for the flower girl and any altar decorations. Flowers usually make up about 5 percent to 12 percent of a bride’s overall wedding budget, and to stay on the lower end of that average will require choosing more economical blooms.

2019 Bridal Guide 13

Bridal 2019 012-013 BRIDAL-Flowers.indd 13

1/22/19 3:04 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | MOTHER MAKEOVER

Well-groomed Sun City mom wins makeover, gets style update

BY CAROL WEIR | PHOTOS BY GUIDO FLUECK

14 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 014-017 BRIDAL-Mother Makeover.indd 14

1/22/19 1:07 PM

“VIOLET OR PURPLE IS A HAPPY COLOR THAT LOOKS GREAT ON MANY PEOPLE. YOU JUST HAVE TO FIND THE SHADE THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU.” – Kathryn Mademann, stylist

G

eorgia Lash of Sun City Hilton Head first learned of Monthly’s makeover contest on Facebook.

She scrolled past it, but decided she should look more closely at the opportunity when she realized she qualified for the contest.

“I mean, how many times am I going to be the mother of a groom? Hopefully only once,” Lash said, referring to her only child, Alex, who lives in Charlotte and will marry fiancé Kaitlyn on May 18 at the South Carolina Yacht Club in Windmill Harbour.

Her transformation began in early January. Lash sent in her entry and in a live drawing at Monthly’s headquarters won the services of professional stylist Kathryn Mademann, who would curate her clothes, hair and makeup for the big event.

Lash, 68, is a retired teacher who moved to the Lowcountry from Greenville with her husband, Steve, in 2016. In her contest entry, she wrote, “I’m so excited that my son and his fiancé chose Hilton Head for their wedding site. The memories from the wedding event will make this truly seem like my home.”

Knowing the wedding weekend was approaching, Lash “had my shopping antennae in high gear.” She’d looked online, in stores and even in friends’ closets for an outfit for the casual rehearsal dinner at Skull Creek Dockside and a formal dress for the wedding day. But everything she tried on was “too old or too plain, or there were too many choices” and she was growing frustrated.

“I leapt at the chance to work with Kathryn Mademann,” Lash said.

The two started out with a shopping trip. With the help of Ruth Stern and Jessica Sanders, Mademann selected a comfortable but elegant flowing teal outfit at Birdie James boutique on Hilton Head.

The top and matching pants are from Birdie James’ own collection.

“The drape of the fabric gave this outfit an easy, flowing feel,” Mademann said, adding that the teal accentuated Lash’s beautiful green eyes. Earrings, a bracelet and a ring from Birdie James completed the look.

Then they were off to LowCounty Bridal & Gown in Bluffton’s Sheridan Park, where owner Christina Vicaro helped them pick a dress that would flatter Lash and coordinate with the bridesmaids, who will wear navy blue. Lash tried on several dresses but was stunning in a dark violet, one-shouldered Kanali K gown.

“People shy away from violet or purple, but I am a big fan of it,” 2019 Bridal Guide 15

Bridal 2019 014-017 BRIDAL-Mother Makeover.indd 15

1/22/19 1:07 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | MOTHER MAKEOVER

Mademann said. “It’s a happy color that looks great on many people. You just have to find the shade that’s right for you.”

Mademann accented Lash’s look with crystal stone dropped earrings.

Lash, who is 5-foot-4 and a size 8-10, was thrilled to have her wardrobe woes solved.

“Kathryn looked, she listened, all the while developing a plan for the style that would match the wedding events and me,” she said. “She was a hawk to the prey when it came to colors and fabrics that flatter.”

A few days later Lash, Mademann and photographer Guido Flueck met at Salon Karma in Bluffton for hair, makeup and photos. Kim Seaglund, the new owner of Salon Karma, and hair stylist and makeup artist Josie Jones agreed that Lash’s hair color was pretty, so instead of a color adjustment they applied a Kerastase customed-tailored Fusion Dose treatment for nourishment, shine, body and density.

Lash wanted a new hairstyle but wasn’t sure what would look good on her.

Jones gave her a fresh, soft lob — a long bob.

“The cut really brought me into the 21st century. It’s contemporary,” Lash said.

For the photo shoot of the "Night Before” outfit, the stylists added a few waves. For the "Wedding Day" look, Jones created a beautiful up-do.

Then came the makeup. Lash said she stayed quiet during the session so she could watch the artist at work.

“Josie had many palettes open and her brushes were flying,” she said. “My favorite moment was when she spun me around in the chair.”

The photo shoot was fun for Lash, who is a producer and co-anchor for Sun City’s TV station.

Flueck “made me feel as worthy a model for him as someone who models full time,” she said.

When it was all over, Mademann said she enjoyed working with Lash because she was very excited for the makeover and updating her look. “Helping people make changes — no matter how large or small — is so gratifying,” Mademann said.

Lash was also pleased.

“While my results were unbelievably fantastic to me, I was never lost in the process. I never felt fake. This is a look I can adapt into my daily lifestyle,” she said.

Stylist Kathryn Mademann (left) is a former model with 30 years of experience in fashion, media and communications.

She hosted fashion makeover TV show “On Trend” and now leads style workshops and consultations in the Lowcountry. Contact her at kathrynmademann@gmail.com.

16 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 014-017 BRIDAL-Mother Makeover.indd 16

1/22/19 1:08 PM

2019 Bridal Guide 17

Bridal 2019 014-017 BRIDAL-Mother Makeover.indd 17

1/22/19 3:10 PM

S

BRIDAL GUIDE | FEATURED WEDDING

Sabrina and Corey A modern-day fairy tale

BY JESSICA SPARKS

Venue Belfair Club House | Wedding Planner Jennifer Burns, Belfair | Caterer Belfair Club House Wedding Officiant Father Anthony Nachef | Photographer Gibson Photography Videographer Arial Lifestyle Productions | Band/DJ Party DJ Flow Hernandez Church David Kimball & Guillermo Nellymar Brazon | Entertainment Elvis Jeff Vandenverg Hair Stylez by Natalie Moreno | Makeup Curl Me Lash- Dulce Huerta Baker D’ Flavors Bakery, Daniel Mendoza | Florist Elizabeth Barrientos | Transportation Price4limo 18 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 018-023 BRIDAL-Sandoval Wedding.indd 18

1/22/19 1:08 PM

S T

here was no singing candelabra or teapot in Belfair on the evening of their wedding, but Sabrina Sandoval and Corey Pennington aimed to make their “Beauty and the Beast”-inspired, fairy talethemed wedding a magical affair.

The two met by chance after Sabrina had called the police and Corey responded.

However, their lives were so busy they couldn’t find time for a traditional courtship.

“It just seemed like everything was pinned down like this by God,” said Sabrina, a teacher at St. Francis Catholic School. “It seemed like God had put us together and I just always thought that it was out of this world — like it wasn’t realistic. So I thought our story was always like a fairy tale.”

With Corey’s schedule and Sabrina’s three-job workload, the two would meet for 20-minute coffee dates or have five minutes to chat before they were off to another obligation.

“It was never enough,” Corey said.

“But it was enough to be happy,” Sabrina added.

Corey proposed to Sabrina on March 24 by serenading her under the stars beneath her balcony. He took her to a spot by the water surrounded with candles, flowers and rose petals.

Sabrina and Corey were married Nov. 17, 2018 at St. Peter's Catholic Church on Lady's Island in Beaufort.

Their reception took place at Belfair in Bluffton.

“He said, ‘Will you make me the happiest man in the world and be my wife?’ And I said, ‘Of course!’” Sabrina said. “It was definitely a nice proposal.”

Eight months later, the couple was married Nov. 17 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church on Lady’s Island in Beaufort, and then celebrated beneath the oak trees in Belfair in Bluffton. Sabrina donned a white princess gown from Gown Boutique of Charleston, completing the look with a tiara.

Belfair’s ballroom was a perfect fit for the 125-guest reception.

Blush, navy and gold were accented with splashes of burgundy, giving the space a royal feel. The cake was a three-tiered masterpiece from D’Flavors Bakery, presented on a stand with crystals hanging between each layer and decorated to match the feel of the party. To match the theme, Sabrina and Corey entered the reception to John Legend’s rendition of “Beauty and the Beast,” and then DJ Flow Hernandez got the party going.

The couple also made sure the fairy tale wedding reflected the Lowcountry setting.

2019 Bridal Guide 19

Bridal 2019 018-023 BRIDAL-Sandoval Wedding.indd 19

1/22/19 1:08 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | FEATURED WEDDING

(843)-837-5090 amazingeventrentals.com

POWER OF PINK

PROPERTY

MANAGEMEN

T • LOWCOU

NTRY LIV

• CRESCENDO ART

FESTIVAL • TATTO O TREN

CHOICE AWAR DS 2018 READERS’

D WINNERS 2019 INNOVA TORS + INV

ING • BRIDAL your voice

ice}

JANUA RY

SCHOOL SPI RIT? YES, WE DO! TEACHER THE YEAR OF SCHOOL PROFILES PLANNING SABBATICALA IS JAR

ER 2018

ice your vo

RE NIXON TT

BUSINESS’S

City e SUBSCRIBE Guid your voice

OCTOB ER 2018

October 18 _C1-C4

Covers.indd

Garvin-Gar

er 18 C1-C4

Septemb

1

vey Hous

e - by Amir

i Farris

TODAY January

9/26/18 C1-C4 Covers.indd December 18 1:29 PM

dd 5

Covers.in

1

MOCKTA

ENJOY ALLILS: THE SPRITS AND SPRIGS WITH OUT THE HANGOVER

BOEING TO CHARLE WE TAKE A STON LOOK AT

A NEW YEAR

ISLAND REC CENTER FITNES

IST TERR MUSICIAN AND ACTIV

4:22 PM

2019

LARGEST EMPL THE CENTER IN OYMENT THE STATE

NEWYO+ U 19 C1-C4

S FOR BEGINNERS INTELLE

LADY MARY Y HERRON | FIRST

HiltonHeadMonthly.com/Subscribe 8/22/18

UE

GIVING

{your vo SEPT EMB

ENTORS ISS

GIFTING &

DEC. 2018

CTUAL GROWTH GET YOU FINANCESR IN CHECK BEFORE APRIL 15T H

FRASER 11/20/18

6:18 PM

Covers.in

dd 1

12/20/18

10:05 AM

Sabrina's friends and family came from all over the U.S. and from Mexico to share the couple's special day. Their Beauty and the Beast”-inspired, fairy talethemed wedding was a magical affair.

20 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 018-023 BRIDAL-Sandoval Wedding.indd 20

1/22/19 1:09 PM

“We definitely focused on making it, not necessarily primarily a Lowcountry theme, but we wanted everyone to experience a little bit of the Lowcountry,” said Corey, who is now a teacher at May River High School.

Belfair added gorgeous Lowcountry ambiance to the event. The oak-lined streets and the garden area of the venue lent natural beauty to the wedding photography captured by Corey Gibson.

Belfair catering manager Jennifer Burns helped coordinate the event.

“The availability of space was amazing. They basically gave us the whole venue,” Sabrina said. “They gave us the garden. They gave us the smaller rooms to get ready.

They told us that basically anything we wanted, they could make it happen. She [Burns] did a really good job at that. I wanted to plan my own wedding, but she was there to 2019 Bridal Guide 21

Bridal 2019 018-023 BRIDAL-Sandoval Wedding.indd 21

1/22/19 1:09 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | FEATURED WEDDING

Timeline Sabrina and Corey’s reception Cocktail hour 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Transition: guests seated in reception hall 5:30-5:45 p.m.

Wedding party entrance “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas 6:15-6:20 p.m.

Bride and groom entrance “Beauty and the Beast”

by John Legend and Ariana Grande 6:20-6:30 p.m.

Prayer 6:30 p.m.

Dinner 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Elvis show Cake cutting by the bride and groom help. I think that gave me control, but also gave me help. That’s one thing I really liked.”

The couple arranged for a private horseand-carriage ride from Sea Island Carriage Company through the plantation during the cocktail hour.

“It gave us some time to be alone,” Sabrina said. “It was right after the ceremony, so it gave us some time to realize what just happened and to be prepared to celebrate it. I think the horse and carriage was a beautiful, beautiful moment.”

Sabrina also was sure to add some of her family’s cultural heritage to the big day as well. With family coming from across the United States and Mexico, she wanted to be sure their traditional values were represented alongside the couple’s modern style. Rev. Anthony Nachef led a bilingual service, much to the couple’s surprise, and the band Mariachi Espuelas de America played for Corey and Sabrina as they left St. Peter’s. The reception also featured a “La Vibora de la Mer,” a traditional Mexican wedding dance. But their first dance as a married couple, though, was to “Dusk Till Dawn” by Zayn, featuring Sia. Sabrina and Corey created a routine for the song that mixed hip-hop and waltz dance moves.

“I think that’s who we are, though,” Sabrina said. “I think he and I are very traditional in a modern version. I wanted a church, I wanted a ballroom… but I wanted to dance.”

The cake was a three-tiered masterpiece from D’Flavors Bakery, presented on a stand with crystals hanging between each layer and decorated to match the feel of the party.

Toast 7:30 p.m.

Surprise dance “Y Como Es El (Salsa Remix)”

by Marc Anthony and “Dusk Till Dawn”

by Zayn featuring Sia 8-8:15 p.m.

Dancing 8:15-10:30 p.m.

“Vibora de La Mar” 9:15 p.m.

Bride and groom outdoor photoshoot Last dance “You Are the Reason” by Calum Scott 10:30 p.m.

22 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 018-023 BRIDAL-Sandoval Wedding.indd 22

1/22/19 1:09 PM

2019 Bridal Guide 23

Bridal 2019 018-023 BRIDAL-Sandoval Wedding.indd 23

1/22/19 1:09 PM

R

BRIDAL GUIDE | FEATURED WEDDING

A Family Affair

Friends and family pitch in to give couple the perfect wedding

BY JESSICA FARTHING

Wedding Planners David and Rachel Eudy (mostly Rachel) Caterer (Rehearsal Dinner) Crystall and Adam Eudy. (Wedding) Quilium Mercer and Sharon Greene Wedding Officiant Mark Eudy, pastor of The Genesis Group Photographer Matthew Roland Miller; Executive Producer and Lead Photographer of Shadow Shine Pictures Videographer Matthew Roland and Grant Larson (drone shots of the ceremony) Band/DJ Adoration Worship/Michael Taylor and Michael Goldman Baker Adam Eudy | Florist: Horst Flowers.

24 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 024-029 BRIDAL-Eudy Wedding.indd 24

1/22/19 1:09 PM

R R

achel Eudy had always wanted a fall wedding. She loves the outdoors, so when she and her now-husband, David, decided to get married, they knew they wanted nature to play a big part in their September nuptials.

Friend Tim Wright offered to let the couple use the Lowcountry-style clubhouse at The Paddocks, a neighborhood nestled alongside a stretch of Hilton Head Island tidal creeks.

“We got married right on the marsh, on the waterway in Jarvis Creek,” David said. “It was high tide, absolutely beautiful.”

The couple timed their ceremony just right — even though they didn’t plan it that way. Their first dance coincided with sunset, which provided a dramatic background in pink and gold for their first moments as a couple. Matthew Roland, their photographer, was able to show the happy couple a preview of the unexpected shots — and they left Rachel breathless.

“I grew up in Michigan, so I had no idea what it would be like to have a wedding here. Right in that area, the sunsets are beautiful every night,” she said. “It was perfect timing, but we didn’t even plan it. It just happened that way.”

The evening continued to unfold perfectly, with David and Rachel both describing it as “relaxed.” Of course, that could have been because the guests were also involved in the planning of the event.

WHEN I SAW RACHEL COME DOWN THE AISLE, EVERYTHING GOT STILL, AND I DIDN’T HEAR ANYTHING. I COULD ONLY SEE RACHEL. IT WAS JUST PERFECT.

David’s brother, Adam, is a chef who has cooked at the White House and the Pentagon. He put on the rehearsal dinner, opting for a Lowcountry boil and keeping things simple by laying out the food on a long buffet table. After guests had loaded their plates with she-crab soup from Sigler’s Rotisserie & Seafood in Bluffton, fresh shrimp from Bluffton Oyster Co., hush puppies and key lime pie, Adam suggested that everyone sit next to a person they didn’t know — an idea David fully supported.

“It was wonderful to see the family getting to know each other, a great icebreaker,” he said.

For the ceremony, Rachel took advantage of her sister’s design skills — skills she honed as a stage manager in New York. Using seasonal fall flowers from Horst Wholesale Florist in Charleston, Rachel’s sister crafted beautiful bouquets and table arrangements and a wedding arch. She combined the deep fall colors with bright eucalyptus, complementing the dark teal dresses worn by the bridesmaids. She even decorated the red velvet wedding cake, baked by Adam, with the fall blooms.

2019 Bridal Guide 25

Bridal 2019 024-029 BRIDAL-Eudy Wedding.indd 25

1/22/19 1:10 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | FEATURED WEDDING

WWW.BLUSHBRIDALANDFORMALWEAR.COM

Bluffton’s only full service bridal boutique!

David’s father, an ordained Baptist minister, performed the ceremony. David couldn’t imagine anyone else officiating, and his father felt the same: “He’s always wanted to marry his own children,” David said.

Rachel’s aunt, Sharon Greene, volunteered to cater the event. A professional from Michigan, she joined with another family friend for the barbecue meal, creating a menu that reflected some of Rachel’s family favorites. Most importantly, she made sure the wedding party was served dinner before the buffet was opened to their guests, allowing Rachel and David an opportunity to enjoy their own meals without stress or interruption. They ate their 26 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 024-029 BRIDAL-Eudy Wedding.indd 26

1/22/19 1:10 PM

Rachel’s sister crafted beautiful bouquets with deep fall colors and blooms that were in season at the time of the wedding.

2019 Bridal Guide 27

Bridal 2019 024-029 BRIDAL-Eudy Wedding.indd 27

1/22/19 1:10 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | FEATURED WEDDING

Southern-inspired feast under lights they strung around the fire pit and pool deck area at The Paddocks, enjoying the moments under the stars.

The couple added a few other personal touches to their big day.

To help ward off the late afternoon heat, Rachel and David added handles to their wedding programs so guests could use them as fans. David said the idea “was a hit,” as the evening was still hot despite a constant breeze coming from the river.

The night before the wedding, Rachel took some time to tie ribbons on the programs.

She also made chalkboard signs to point guests to the ceremony site. David was able to add a taste of his native North Carolina, arranging for the local Cheerwine manufacturer to deliver glass bottles of the sweet soda to be served at the reception.

With all this organization, Rachel felt cool and calm on the day of the wedding, but David was still tense.

“I shouldn’t have been nervous, but I was,” he said. That all changed when the

Family and friends helped David and Rachel create a personalized, relaxed wedding day that helped everyone get to know each other.

28 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 024-029 BRIDAL-Eudy Wedding.indd 28

1/22/19 1:10 PM

ceremony got underway, though. “When I saw Rachel come down the aisle, everything got still, and I didn’t hear anything. I could only see Rachel. It was just perfect.”

The whole night went off without a hitch, the couple said, and they wouldn’t change a thing. It was a reflection of their lives together, but also the love of their family and friends.

“Everybody really came together,” Rachel said. “We felt really honored and blessed to have them be a part of our special day.”

2019 Bridal Guide 29

Bridal 2019 024-029 BRIDAL-Eudy Wedding.indd 29

1/22/19 1:10 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Engaging Rings

Today's styles mean more options than ever when it comes to the ring

BY MARY HALL

30 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 030-033 BRIDAL-Rings/Children.indd 30

1/22/19 3:06 PM

I

t’s more than a ring. It’s the promise of a future filled with love and happiness, tears and joy, all with the most wonderful man in the world. So why shouldn’t your ring be the most wonderful ring in the world, too? And with today’s styles and multitude of choices, there is sure to be a perfect ring out there just for you.

Many of today’s brides-to-be love the tradition of engagement rings, but they don’t want their rings to look traditional. Many women are opting to make a statement with their bands, opting for a variety of styles: colored stones, classic solitaires, unique cuts, vintage looks or family heirlooms.

Of course, the classic — the round brilliant cut — is always in style.

“Simple, tailored styles are popular and the round brilliant cut fits well in this design, whether in a simple solitaire setting or in a halo ring, which has a circle of diamonds around the center stone,” said Jennifer Lance of Heritage Jewelers.

Brides are also influenced by engagement rings adorning the fingers of popular figures such as Princess Diana and Kate Middleton, both of whom selected sapphires and diamonds.

Colored stones combined with diamonds are popular and make for beautiful and very personal engagement rings.

“People want to do something personal,” said Rebecca Lovette of Forsythe Jewelers, who added that many men love blue stones and combining sapphires with diamonds creates a stylish, chic ring. Also popular, she said, is incorporating the bride’s birthstone into the ring’s design.

And what about mixing metals? Whether in the engagement ring alone or adding bands in contrasting yellow or white gold, using a variety of metal hues can make your sparkler truly pop. While white gold is still the metal of choice for engagement and wedding rings, yellow gold is making a comeback. Don’t forget about rose gold; the feminine, rosy color complements all skin tones and is increasingly popular.

Stacked rings also are totally customizable, making for a wider look with the option of mixing metals. “Diamonds can be put into a simple setting, and then you can do something fun with the bands,” Lovette said. “You can also add to or change out the bands later to update the look.”

But in the end, everyone is different and jewelers must understand their client’s personal style when helping them select a ring. “The type of ring depends on lifestyle and how much use the ring will get,” said Laurie McKenzie of Forsythe Jewelers.

Vintage-inspired trends mean brides can have new rings but still incorporate that Old-World feel. Many families pass diamonds down through generations, simply changing out the setting so each new bride has a custom, personalized ring.

No matter the look you and your fiancé choose, it’s important to do your research and understand the value of the stones you are buying.

“An engagement ring is an investment,” Lance said. “It’s important to be educated about the stone and know what you’re getting for your money.”

2019 Bridal Guide 31

Bridal 2019 030-033 BRIDAL-Rings/Children.indd 31

1/22/19 1:11 PM

BRIDAL GUIDE | CHILDREN IN WEDDINGS

Young at Heart How to host guests of all ages — or adults only — at your big day

BY ROBYN PASSANTE | PHOTO BY MICHEL BERDA OF KING STREET PHOTO WEDDINGS

F

or Billy and Beth Mayer, who were married Oct. 11 on the beach outside of The Dunes House, exchanging their wedding vows wasn’t so much about saying “I do” as it was proclaiming “we all do” — the bride, the groom and the bride’s two children.

“This was about us forming a family, not just getting married,” says Beth, whose 12-year-old son walked her down the aisle and was the best man, even giving a speech he wrote himself. Her 9-year-old daughter, Mia, was a junior bridesmaid at the wedding, and the groom’s then-4year-old niece served as flower girl.

The couple chose to include the bride’s children in the wedding and invite their guests to bring their little ones because the

couple couldn’t imagine celebrating their marriage any other way.

“I love kids; kids are my life,” says Billy, an elementary school principal in Ohio. “We wanted the kids there. There was no issue.”

But not all couples feel the same about hosting an all-ages party, and that’s perfectly fine too. There are some key ways to make either wedding style — adult-only or family-friendly — a successful affair.

If you’re including kids: Give them age-appropriate — and personality-appropriate — jobs. Everyone loves to “Awwww” at an adorable 2-year-old in a frilly dress and crown of flowers, but can she really toddle up the aisle all by herself while leaving a perfect trail of rose petals?

If you are asking children to be in your wedding party, give them a role that suits their abilities, attention spans and personalities.

Terribly shy children might not want to stand without their parents at an altar, and a pre-teen might feel silly in a “flower girl” role. Talk to their parents to find a suitable way for them to be part of your ceremony or celebration.

Be kind to little taste buds. Some small children have adventurous palates and enjoy “big kid” food; most, however, prefer kid’s meal staples like mac-and-cheese and chicken fingers. Talk to your caterer about what options can be made available for kids. “We were hearing parents say, ‘Oh my gosh, thank you for the kid’s meal!” Billy says. “Having juices and chocolate milk

32 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 030-033 BRIDAL-Rings/Children.indd 32

1/22/19 3:15 PM

Honeymoon Help Cash in on your wedding dreams

BY ROBYN PASSANTE

S

The bridal registry is a long-standing wedding tradition, an easy way for couples to indicate to their loved ones some of the gifts that would help them start their marriage in style.

The first bridal registry dates back to 1924, when couples were mainly registering for things like china, silver and crystal patterns.

Over the years, brides and grooms began registering for other kinds of items for their homes, from bath linens to garden tools.

But today’s couples are marrying later and often living together first, which means their homes are pretty well equipped long before they walk down the aisle.

That’s one reason honeymoon registries are an increasingly popular alternative to the traditional department store variety. If you’re on the fence about whether a honeymoon registry is a good idea, consider these points: • Registries are helpful, not tacky. The majority of wedding guests find them to be a super-efficient and easy way to celebrate your marriage with all the guesswork removed.

• A honeymoon or “cash registry” allows you to ask for what you really want, not just the best salt and pepper shaker a particular store happens to sell. Your guests want to buy you a present, but they don’t want to spend their money on something you only registered for because you needed another $20 item on your list.

• Experiences and memories matter more than things, and registering for pricier — and priceless — things like tours and tickets allows guests to chip in for expensive items in a way traditional registries don’t allow.

36 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 036-037 BRIDAL-Honeymoon Registry.indd 36

1/23/19 10:20 AM

y r o t c e r i D The

A Floral Affair

11

Amazing Event Rentals

20

Belfair Country Club

40

Berkeley Hall

5

Bluffton Aesthetics

23

Blush Bridal & Formal Wear

26

Carolina Weddings

11

Chocolate Canopy

33

Circle of Life/Gardenias The Cottage Deevanity's Creative Wonderland East Coast Entertainment Envision Med Spa Haig Point

7, 13 27 8 29 9 36-37

Heritage Fine Jewelry

31

Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort

26

Hilton Head Entertainment

38

Hilton Head Health & Indigo Spa

34

LowCountry Bride & Gown

23

LowCountry Eye Associates

9

Morris Center for LowCountry Heritage Orange Theory Fitness

31 8

Palmetto Dunes

35

Pure Barre

15

RIM Photography

20

Rockfish Seafood & Steakhouse

39

Roller's Wine and Spirits

38

Salon Karma

15

Seaquins Ballroom

33

SERG 21 South Carolina Yacht Club

17

Spartina

3

Westin Resort & Spa

2

38 hiltonheadbridalshow.com

Bridal 2019 038-040 BRIDAL-Directory.indd 38

1/22/19 1:35 PM

Bridal 2019 038-040 BRIDAL-Directory.indd 39

1/22/19 1:35 PM

Bridal 2019 038-040 BRIDAL-Directory.indd 40

1/22/19 1:35 PM