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Island affair

HAYDEN & WILLIAM HENDRIX

HILTON HEAD ISLAND, S.C. | 11.04.2023

Those who know Hayden know she doesn’t let a small moment go unnoticed. “From the engagement parties to picking out our wedding weekend outfits to listening to hours of music for our cocktail playlist, I made sure to make every step memorable and something to remember,” she says.

That thoughtful intention carried through to the bigger moments of her and Will’s wedding, too. Married on the 18th hole at Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head Island, S.C., the November weather was a balmy 75 degrees, with not a cloud in the sky. Guests were greeted with coupes of Hayden’s favorite Champagne, and bagpipes played.

Hayden, co-founder and designer of Byrdie Golf Social Wear — a Charlotte-based women’s golf and lifestyle brand — wore a dress she spent a year designing herself. The centerpiece: a corset, covered in French lace from the same lace company that made the Princess of Wales’ wedding gown. Attached were three tiered layers of ivory tulle and a long tulle train. Custom lace gloves, yellow diamond studs and her

mother-in-law’s sapphire ring completed Hayden’s look.

An Aperol spritz-themed cocktail hour included a putting contest and savory seafood bites like tuna sashimi tacos and mini crab cakes. “I wanted a very whimsical, coastal, yet elegant Lowcountry wedding with lots and lots of friends and family,” Hayden says. Inspired by Byrdie Golf’s Coastal Collection, she brought in shells, lobsters and other fun elements to the celebration. The couple’s stationery, napkins and tablecloths featured a print Hayden created when designing her rehearsal dress.

Following a seated dinner and reception, two of Hayden and Will’s friends — who are professional DJs — got the after party going. Guests had received invitations months in advance and came prepared with fun disco attire.

“I would encourage brides to be as thoughtful as you can with each wedding detail,” Hayden says. “I think some brides get so wrapped up in checking items off their list that they may skip out on the cute, creative details that make weddings unique.”

The details:

Photographer | Virgil Bunao

Venue | The Sea Pines Resort, 18th hole at Harbour Town Golf Links, Hilton Head Island, S.C. (ceremony); Harbour Town Clubhouse (reception)

Planner | Dina Blazek, Dina Berg Blazek Events

Floral Design | In Bloom Ltd.

Dress & Wedding Accessories | Designed by the bride

Beauty | Jami Svay

Bridesmaids Dresses | Staud

Caterer & Cake | Sea Pines Resort

Ceremony Music | David Kimbell Quartet; Dan Ailes, bagpiper

Entertainment | The After Party Experience

Rentals | EventWorks, Savannah, Ga.

Linens/Draping | Party Tables

Lighting/AV | JLK Events, Savannah, Ga.; Advanced A/V Rentals, Savannah, Ga.

Bar Wraps | AlphaGraphics

Stationery | Arzberger Stationers

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Mountain masterpiece

BAILEY & JACOB TRUMAN

“We wanted to be surrounded by our friends and family in a single location where we could all relax and have fun for the weekend,” says Bailey, of her and Jake’s choice to get married at the majestic Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Va.

The Huntersville couple — both former college athletes at Bridgewater College in Bridgewater, Va. — envisioned a traditional and timeless wedding, yet one that felt fun and different. “We loved being in the mountains, the historic and classic feel of the hotel that allowed us to add our special touches to make it feel like our own,” Bailey says.

Wedding flowers included ones grown by Bailey’s sister-inlaw, a surprise coordinated with the florist to ensure the colors matched the wedding palette. Bailey’s bouquet featured a white tulip — a nod to the couple’s courtship, when Jake would always arrive with a handpicked tulip. Tied around the bouquet: Bailey’s grandparents’ and great-grandparents’ wedding rings. To honor family members who couldn’t be at the wedding, Bailey, her mom and Jake’s mom wore bracelets

Bailey had made featuring the loved ones’ birthstones.

Planners Lindsay Kennedy and Stephanie Murtaugh aimed for a wedding that felt like a “stylish summer retreat in the mountains.” They created varied, layered tablescapes, mixing in patterns and playful details like fan menus with tassels and touches of bows. For the ceremony, a serpentine floral aisle, sailcloth umbrellas and a floral focus in front of the wedding party added to the charming vibe.

“This wedding was so colorful and full of patterns and textures, and we didn’t utilize a drop of pink,” Lindsay says. The resort’s storied architecture, along with the couple and their families, provided plenty of inspiration. “Their warmth, nurturing and just plain fun personalities had us wanting to design and plan something incredibly worthy of their love.”

The wedding exceeded the couple’s expectations, Bailey says. “Trust your vendors … You plan a wedding once; your vendors do this multiple times a year. Put that trust in them, and they’re sure to make magic happen.”

bailey & jake

The details:

Photographer | Demi Mabry Photography

Venue | The Omni Homestead Resort, Hot Springs, Va.

Planners | Lindsay Kennedy and Stephanie

Murtaugh, LK Events & Design, Richmond, Va.

Floral Design | Steelcut Flower Co., Lynchburg, Va.

Dress | Eva Lendel, Anjolique Bridal & Formal, Cornelius

Wedding Accessories | Hayden Olivia Bridal (earrings)

Beauty | Anna Breeding, Boston

Bridesmaids Dresses | Show Me Your Mumu

Groom Attire | OMJ Clothing

Groomsmen Attire | Men’s Wearhouse

Rings | Ascot Diamonds, Davidson

Caterer & Cake | The Omni Homestead Resort

Entertainment | 76 Degrees West

Rentals | Paisley & Jade, Richmond, Va.; Emerson

James Rentals, Charlottesville, Va.; Rent-E-Quip, Colonial Heights, Va.

Linens | BBJ La Tavola

Stationery & Wedding Painting | Natalie O’Dell, Chez La Mariée

bailey & jake

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The Wright match

ANNE HOWARD & COLEMAN WRIGHT

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH | 04.29.2023

Both have North Carolina roots, but it took the Big Apple and a pandemic to bring Anne Howard and Coleman together. Anne Howard, a native Charlottean, and Coleman, from Elizabeth City, first crossed paths while living in New York City, thanks to mutual friends. After both moving to Charlotte in late 2019, they began dating, right on the cusp of Covid.

“Needless to say, when the world shut down, we got to know each other very quickly and obviously fell in love,” Anne Howard says. Frequent trips to Wrightsville Beach — where Anne Howard had spent childhood summers swimming, water-skiing and tubing — offered the couple a chance to work remotely, relax and enjoy each other’s company. So, when it came time to decide on a wedding spot, Lollipop Bay in Wrightsville was the perfect choice.

The ceremony took place in the backyard of a family

friend’s home, across the street from Anne Howard’s family beach house and overlooking Lollipop Bay. Show-stopping florals in a rainbow of yellow, peach, light pink and blue pastels filled the space. Carolina Yacht Club, with its large covered decks, screened porch, gorgeous ocean views and laid-back vibe welcomed guests for the reception. Passed hors d’oeuvres, a raw bar with freshly shucked oysters and cocktails kicked off the party, followed by dinner and dancing.

On the dance floor, the couple handed out custom golf visors and hats, embroidered with “WRIGHTsville 2023,” a nod to the newly married couple’s last name and the wedding destination. Hot dogs from Wrightsville’s iconic Trolly Stop and house-made chips and dip were served as late-night snacks. As guests exited, they received bouquets of repurposed ceremony flowers. “It was a great way for the blooms to be enjoyed a little longer,” Anne Howard says.

anne howard & coleman

The details:

Photographer | Gayle Brooker, Charleston, S.C.

Venues | Private residence, Wrightsville Beach (ceremony); Carolina Yacht Club (reception)

Planners | Mary Beth Moore; Catherine Dooley, North Corner Haven

Floral Design | Blossom Bay, Wilmington

Dress | Alyne, Rita Vinieris; Hayden Olivia Bridal

Wedding Accessories | Rivini (veil); Loeffler Randall (shoes)

Hair | Colette Laplante

Makeup | Alice Lawson Salon, Wilmington

Bridal Stylist | Lesley Brickman, The One Gown, Los Angeles

Bridesmaids Dresses | Erdem

Groom Attire | Fairclough & Co. (custom white dinner jacket)

Rings | Elizabeth Bruns

Caterer | Spoonfed Kitchen, Wilmington

Cake | Imaginary Cakes, Wilmington

Music/Entertainment | Deans’ Duets (ceremony), Royal Suits (reception)

Event Design | High Performance Lighting, Party Tables (draping)

Rentals | Party Suppliers & Rentals (tables, chairs & tabletop); Martha My Dear Specialty Rentals (furniture & bars); Great Day Soiree, Wilmington (specialty rentals & accessories); Party Tables (ceremony drapery, pillows, table linens & fabric bars); Stradley Davidson, Charleston, S.C. (table linens & pillows)

Stationery | Arzberger Stationers, Olive Paper, Enfield Post, Bonnie Clarke Calligraphy, Peyton’s Post

Fairy-tail weddings

by Jennings Cool Roddey

Afew minutes before Tara and Michael McKay’s ‘I dos,’ two Bernese mountain dogs strutted down a white runway lined with lanterns to take their places in the wedding ceremony. Capturing the crowd’s attention, Penelope and Theodore, both dressed for the occasion, wagged their tails as they made their way to the front of the room.

The McKays knew they wanted their dogs to be a part of their special day, and Furever Friends, an all-inclusive pet-sitting service, made it happen.

“Furever Friends made my wedding day a breeze,” Tara McKay says. Wedding pet-sitting services, such as Furever Friends, specialize in ensuring that pets are not just guests at weddings but members of the celebration.

Formerly a full-time physical therapist, Nicole Dorian, owner of Furever Friends, started her business as a side gig in Buffalo, N.Y., focusing on daily pet-care services. “I love animals and always had animals growing up.”

As she brought on more clients, Dorian started weaning

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ADRIANA MCGOWAN

away from the corporate world to grow the business. All the while, she was planning her wedding and wanted her late golden retriever, Roscoe, to be a part of her special day.

Once she narrowed down her venues based on dog-friendliness, the preparation began. But, having Roscoe there for the first look, ceremony and reception was not as seamless as she had thought it would be. “Leading up to the big day, all the logistics of it turned into a big nightmare. It made me very anxious,” she says. “That is when I decided I needed to open up the wedding side of things through the business.”

About four years ago, Dorian moved to Charlotte and added wedding services to her repertoire, officially launching Furever Friends.

With a collection of tuxedos, tutus, bows and other stylish accesso-

ries, Furever Friends ensures that every pet looks their best for the big day. Dorian and her team also offer safe transportation to and from events for the animals, pet handling, wedding-related pet care before and after events, and overnight stays, if requested.

“This service is so special,” says McKay, who now works for Furever Friends. “I knew I wanted our fur babies to be a part of our special day from the beginning, but I was going to have to have someone miss a big chunk of the wedding. This way, you can hire someone to take care of your baby and have them be a part of your wedding day without all the stress.”

The demand for dog wedding services continues to rise, and Dorian says that about 90% of clients request dogs to be a part of the ceremo-

ny in some way. “Honestly, the [demand] is getting higher and higher,” she says. “The importance of having your fur baby with you, especially during all of those special times, is higher than it ever was before.”

“It’s very customizable,” she says, referring to the wedding services side of the business, which caters to clients within a three-hour radius of Charlotte.

“After the photos, Nicole took [the dogs] home and handled all the care for them for the night,” McKay says. “The best part was I got 100 photos of them throughout the day!”

Daniela Angelon opened Barks and Blooms, a pet-sitting and dog-walking company serving the Charlotte area, in 2015. The company provided wedding services from the get-go, making it the first dog wedding service in Charlotte, Angelon believes.

Companies like Barks and Blooms ensure that pets are involved in

the celebrations without adding a burden to family members who may be helping in other ways on the wedding day. “We felt that the service would solve that problem for a lot of people, and it really, really took off,” Angelon says.

Throughout the celebrations, Barks and Blooms takes wedding photos “through the eye of the dog,” providing couples with a glimpse into their special day from their pet’s point of view. Along with photos, couples are given a detailed report via the Barks and Blooms’ app at the end of the wedding.

Several tips Barks and Blooms shares when adding a pet-sitting service to your wedding include hiring a professional company; meeting in person (with your pet) before the celebrations; including your wedding planner; packing a bag for your dog the day of with toys, treats and necessities; ensuring your dog has been exercised; and scheduling photos with your

PHOTOGRAPH BY KATIE SPATA

dog while they are focused and energized.

“We have done everything from pictures to walking [pets] down the aisle … We have even chaperoned them at parties afterward,” Angelon says. “We try to find out the goal and learn more about the dog so we can make recommendations about what is realistic and what may not be.”

Talon Brown established Happy Tails, a family-owned pet-care service provider, in 2020. The following year, he added wedding services to the business with the goal of making special occasions more memorable and stress-free for pet parents.

He appreciates the important role he and his team play on a couple’s wedding day and the responsibility to do it well. “By the time we get to the wedding, we know what to do, you know what we are going to do ... and you can trust that we are going to do it.” W

Traditions, with a twist

Planning for a wedding can be a delicate dance between tradition and preference. Here’s how couples are honoring the past while embracing the present with fresh takes on long-standing traditions.

by Amanda Lea

While standard wedding etiquette still serves as a guideline for everything from ceremonies to seating charts, the ways in which couples choose to say “I do” continue to evolve. Many partners are embracing the opportunity to create a celebration that mirrors what’s important to them.

Jackie Fogartie, owner of Jackie Fogartie Events, says regional trends and cultural practices play a big role in how traditions take shape on the big day. “It just depends on what the couple and their families are used to,” she says. “But it’s not ‘wrong’ to do something different. You can observe the Emily Post-esque traditions but still incorporate what’s important to you.”

Staying true to who you are as a couple is key, most planners agree. “I often remind my clients that it’s important to put more emphasis on infusing their wedding day with authenticity rather than trying to

incorporate all the latest social media trends,” says Katrina Hutchins of Katrina Hutchins Events. “These platforms can be great for ideas, but it can also make you feel like you need to do things that aren’t true to who you are. If you or your partner don’t typically drink, you don’t need to have a ‘signature cocktail’ just because you saw it online.”

LAYING THE FOUNDATION

Today, some couples embark on the planning process before the proposal takes place — a shift from traditional wedding etiquette. Demand for popular wedding venues and vendors, along with favored wedding dates, make for a competitive environment. Hutchins notes she has already had inquiries into 2026 and has worked with several brides prior to their engagements.

Whenever you choose to begin preparations, Libby Sarver, owner

DEMI MABRY

of Details Wedding Planning, believes this part of the process is about much more than selecting a venue and securing a caterer. “There are big conversations that encompass topics like finances, family dynamics and religious beliefs,” she says. “And what’s beautiful is that as you are having these conversations and making these decisions together, you are thoughtfully laying the foundation of how your marriage will look in the future.”

MONEY TALKS

Although many weddings are still traditionally paid for by the bride’s family, weddings now are funded in a variety of ways. Knowing your budget and where the money is coming from is one of the first topics Sarver discusses with clients. “It doesn’t matter who’s paying, that looks different for everyone. But it’s important to walk through the categories

and who will be paying for what. Having that conversation upfront is so important because it helps to set expectations.”

THE MAIN EVENT

When it comes to the wedding day, many of the basic elements remain unchanged but Charlotte couples are finding unique ways to incorporate meaningful moments.

At their Mint Museum Uptown reception, Sammy and Blaise White’s immediate families joined them at the head table, instead of their wedding party. “We wanted to break bread together with our families for our first married meal,” Sammy says. “We didn’t think about it at the time, but this also ended up giving us some of our favorite photos!”

Prioritizing what was important to them on their big day, Charlotte and Hardin Lucas took all their wedding party photos prior to the cer-

emony. “It was nice to actually be able to attend and enjoy our cocktail hour and have more time with our guests,” Charlotte says. The couple enjoyed a quick, private dinner before joining their guests for the festivities. “This gave us a few minutes to just be in the moment together.”

Sarah and Josh Carter asked their parents to join them at the altar for a time of prayer at their Separk Mansion ceremony. And while they had planned on doing the bouquet-and-garter toss at the reception, they decided to forgo it, preferring to stay on the dance floor and keep the party going.

Belle and Chase Cowart opted to skip the big exit after their reception. “We had a flower petal toss after the ceremony, but at the end of the night we just thanked our guests for coming and we slipped out,” Belle says.

No matter how much you plan things out, sometimes you have to roll with the unexpected. “We picked our wedding date a year in advance,

but we never dreamed it would be one of the biggest college basketball games ever: Duke vs UNC in the Final Four,” Sammy says. The couple added a TV next to the dance floor so guests could stay tuned to the game while enjoying the soirée.

THE WEDDING PARTY

The people you choose to be by your side on your wedding day is a reflection of the community you and your partner have built over the years. It will look different for each couple and is often dependent on social interactions, family dynamics and other life circumstances. Lucas and her husband had a total of 30 wedding attendants (including 16 bridesmaids). “Everyone told us we were crazy — and we definitely were a little — but there wasn’t a single person I would have left out,” Lucas says. “They are all our nearest and dearest friends, and having them be part of our day was incredibly special.”

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The Cowarts had a smaller wedding party (seven groomsmen and eight bridesmaids), but no flower girl or ring bearer. “We were the first in our families to get married, so there weren’t any littles in the family to play these parts,” Belle says.

Aside from the size, couples are putting less emphasis on gender-specific roles. “It’s a lot more fluid,” Sarver says. “Especially when couples have developed a community together, there may not be clear lines between a ‘bride’s side’ and ‘groom’s side.’ It’s just a matter of recognizing the people who mean the most to you and having them be involved in some way.”

Hutchins has seen several weddings in which couples have found creative ways to incorporate family members in nontraditional roles. “One of my favorites is having grandma as the flower girl,” she says. Some couples even have their beloved pet play a supporting role.

NAVIGATING THE GUEST LIST

Your wedding day offers an opportunity to gather important people from various chapters of your life to celebrate your love and commitment. But knowing who to include can be easier said than done.

Besides narrowing down the guest list, deciding whether to allow plus-ones for single guests and including children are common dilemmas. Sarver encourages couples to give plus-ones to their wedding party. From there, couples can create some parameters around the guest list. Sammy and Blaise decided guests could bring a plusone if they were in a committed relationship for over six months. They also chose not to include children on the guest list. “We wanted to be able to enjoy everyone’s company, and we wanted our guests to have a night out to enjoy themselves!” Sammy says.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MEGAN TRAVIS AND SAMANTHA LAFFOON

THE DIGITAL DIVIDE

While digital invites are certainly common, paper still reigns supreme. There are pros to each — namely, digital invitations are a greener alternative (and more affordable), while paper is more formal and widely expected across generations.

E-invites also run the risk of getting lost in the digital clutter. “A paper invitation is a tangible reminder for people to respond, especially if the return envelope is pre-stamped,” Hutchins says. If you’re considering a hybrid approach, Fogartie cautions couples to choose either paper or digital RSVPs. “It can be a headache trying to reconcile RSVPs when you’re figuring out who mailed theirs in, who submitted online, and who may have forgotten altogether.”

MINT TO BE

Old-school wedding rules state that giving tangible gifts from the couple’s registry is more personal than cash or gift cards, but requesting cash contributions instead of, or in addition to, wedding gifts is now widely accepted.

Many couples appreciate the flexibility to use the funds as needed — whether for honeymoon experiences or home-improvement projects. In addition to a wedding registry, the Whites set up a cash fund to go toward remodeling their primary bathroom. “We appreciate the gifts from the registry … but we’re also thankful to people who donated to the project fund because it is something we get to enjoy just as much as our new kitchen plates.”

No matter what traditions you choose to observe — and how you choose to integrate them — Sarah Carter encourages couples to center their day around what’s important to them. “While compromises can be made to keep some peace, it’s a day to celebrate your marriage,” she says. “So let it be everything you hope and dream it to be.” W

PHOTOGRAPH BY SAMANTHA LAFFOON

Honeymoon haven

Grand Velas Riviera Maya is an easy honeymoon escape to beachy paradise.

by Michael J. Solender

With the delightful chaos of the wedding safely behind, honeymoon time is the cherry atop the newlywed sundae, and the ideal fresh beginning for your married days together.

It’s time to be pampered, spoiled, sleep late and ditch your watches — all of which you can do at the all-inclusive Grand Velas Riviera Maya. Here, you’re guaranteed a sun-soaked recharge, fueled by Mexico’s finest cuisine and libations, eco-touring, spa therapies and a pristine beach.

After a three-hour nonstop flight from Charlotte to Cancun followed by a 40-minute drive along the coast, you’ll be enjoying beach-side cocktails by midday. Here’s what you’ll find:

SUITE LIFE

Beach-front or tropical jungle suites are the standard at Grand Velas, with each of the 539 accommodations offering more than 1,100 square feet of luxury living on the resort’s verdant, vast grounds. For those favoring the bold, consider the secluded, romantic Zen Grand suites, where private terraces overlook waterlily ponds and the flora and fauna of the Yucatan jungle, surrounding you with natural wonder at every turn.

Fans of “Love is Blind,” the Netflix romance reality show, may recognize the enormous lobby palapa area, the secluded infinity pool, and the natural beauty found in this lush mangrove area of the resort.

Grand Velas Riviera Maya PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY GRAND VELAS RIVIERA MAYA

Beach lovers will want to make their home in Grand Class suites, oceanfront digs and an ultra-luxe refuge. Each suite features a large terrace with a private plunge pool and lounge area adjacent to the beach. There are massage tables for in-suite spa treatments, interior whirlpools (large enough for two), a fully stocked fridge, and plenty of sweet and salty snacks. There’s artisanal mezcal, distilled specifically for Grand Velas, in your suite — an extra special treat when paired with house-made chocolates.

MEMORY MAKING

Couples are assigned a personal concierge who sees to all requests, and, for the intrepid, can recommend some truly unique newlywed experiences to tempt you with.

Want to explore Mayan ruins and visit one of the world’s most venerated ancient capitals? Your concierge will see to an unforgettable micro-adventure to Chichen Itza, one of the greatest Mayan centers of the Yucatán peninsula.

How about swimming and exploring in a nearby cenote, followed by lunch under-

Zen pool

Zen Grand lobby

ground? Diving or snorkeling trips can also be arranged, or evening stargazing.

If spiritual celebration is more to your liking, book a Mystic Mayan spa evening, complete with a live performance from dancers dressed in traditional Mayan garments with music from snail drums and a copal auric cleansing by Mayan shamans.

Just chilling on the beach is always an option too, and there’s plenty of shade umbrellas and an ever-attentive team to see to your libation needs.

DINING

Breakfast in bed? Of course! There’s 24-hour in-suite dining and a focus on genuine hospitality, earning Grand Velas Riviera Maya a 2023 World’s Best award from Travel + Leisure.

Mayan ceremony

GRAND VELAS DESTINATION WEDDINGS

Options and high-touch service are the watchwords for couples planning distinctive destination weddings or vow-renewal celebrations at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. Offerings include:

• Instagram-ready photobooths, colorful smoke bombs and TikTok transitions, with a dedicated social media concierge to capture it all.

• A hand-painted personalized dance floor to reflect your love story and personality.

• Festive Frida and Diego Second Line festivities with extra-large Frida and Diego mojigangas (puppets) and a mariachi band to lead a musical parade of guests.

• An authentic YAAK UN (Fall in Love) ceremony – A Mayan purification ritual that opens the heart, unblocks energy channels and aligns the wedding party with the true intention of love. To protect the marriage from negative forces, a Mayan shaman blesses the couple.

When it’s time to venture out, romantic evenings mean lingering over special meals in luxurious venues. There are eight restaurants, and while regional Mexican fare plays a starring role, there’s an emphasis on international cuisine that takes full advantage of the bounty of local produce, proteins and dairy the Yucatán is known for.

A couples’ favorite is Piaf, with its French flair, contemporary light touch and elegant Parisian-style ambience. The restaurant pays homage to legendary French chanteuse Edith Piaf with dramatic crystal-lined curtains, retro chandeliers and red-and-black-accented décor. Start your meal with crispy oysters with mayonnaise foam or a foie gras terrine served with apple purée, gingerbread ice cream and toasted brioche. Chef Mario Soto’s touch includes specially crafted dishes for two like the roasted rock Cornish hen, stuffed with barley and veal and served with roasted vegetables and sherry sauce.

Global tastes are on tap every evening at Grand Velas. Frida, a contemporary Mexican kitchen, honors the extensive repertoire of regional cuisine and beyond. Chaka presents an international take on grilled meats, seafood and pasta. Standout Cocina De Autor takes diners on a creative gastronomic journey with eight to 10 small dishes and delivers a sensory tour of one of Mexico’s most acclaimed kitchens.

For a nightcap, venture to the Sky Bar, a rooftop lounge with an ocean view and an ideal place to toast new beginnings. W

HONEYMOON HOT SPOTS

Here are three additional easy-to-reach honeymoon destinations from the Queen City. Savannah, Ga. – Honeymooners will find this Georgia peach an easy four-hour drive from Charlotte, with plenty of charm alongside contemporary offerings. Couples making the Hotel Bardo Savannah their luxe home away from home are rewarded with blocks of walkable Historic District treats like neighboring Forsyth Park, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the South”), Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low’s birthplace, and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’s fabled Bonaventure Cemetery. Acclaimed Lowcountry dining venues like Husk Savannah and The Grey are worth the splurge.

Longboat Key, Fla. – After a two-hour flight to Sarasota/Bradenton from Charlotte, Longboat Key is less than a 30-minute drive but a world away from the buzz of the wedding day. Here, the Zota Beach Resort is the perfect sunny honeymoon escape. Perched along the powdery sands of Longboat Key, there’s a laidback island ambience and easy access to the Bradenton area’s museums, arts, shopping and outdoor adventures. Honeymooners are spoiled with private beach access, a poolside bar and waterfront Florida-Caribbean fusion dining.

Finger Lakes, Sodus, N.Y. – Newlyweds looking to get away from it all will love Maxam Hotels’ Finger Lakes Treehouse just outside of Rochester, N.Y., and a two-hour nonstop flight from Charlotte. Adventure, nature and relaxation await couples in an A-Frame treehouse. Luxury amenities include traditional Swedish spa experiences like a cedar-planked sauna and bubbling hot tubs.

Piaf

MAGNIFICENT AT THE MANSION

MAURA & KENNY BITAR

Charlotte couple Maura and Kenny don’t enjoy being the center of attention. Kenny also doesn’t love to dance. But as Maura began planning for their wedding, she considered a lesson for them to learn a few steps.

“I thought it might be a good way to keep us a little occupied during the first dance instead of thinking about all the people staring at us,” says Maura, who met Kenny at Wake Forest University. They ended up having the entire dance choreographed, and Kenny — while nervous about the experience — leaned in. “He did fantastic, and it definitely showed that he loves and cares about me so much to go completely out of his comfort zone on our wedding day,” Maura says.

Another detail out of the couple’s comfort zone: a rainy and cold forecast for their spring outdoor ceremony. Ironically, Maura had worried the weather might be too hot for guests and had the wedding programs designed as fans. Fortunately, the weather turned, and it was a beautiful May day. Maura attributes the sunny skies to a bottle of bourbon the couple buried in their yard. “Neither of us are from the South, but I’m certainly glad we took up this tradition.”

Maura dreamed of a classic, elegant wedding with a bit of whimsy. Initially set on a neutral palette, planner Katrina Hutchins introduced bright spring colors, adding citrus elements to the décor for a playful touch. Hanging floral baskets above the head table made a striking statement, and intimate lounge areas beckoned guests to sit for a bit. “As our relationship developed and her trust in me deepened, Maura let go a bit and let us explore color and more pops in her aesthetic,” Hutchins says.

Maura appreciated the special, cohesive details and the creativity. “Walking into the reception tent I was in awe,” she says. “Our vendors brought this to life, and it was better than I could have imagined.”

Photographer | Kristin Byrum Photography

Venue | The Duke Mansion

Planner | Katrina Hutchins Events

Floral Design | The Bloom Room

Dress | Mira Zwillinger, Ladies of Lineage

Wedding Accessories | Ladies of Lineage (earrings)

Beauty | Be Pretty

Bridesmaids Dresses | Bella Bridesmaids

Groom Attire | Bonobos, The Black Tux

Groomsmen Attire | The Black Tux

Rings | Diamonds Direct

Caterer | The Duke Mansion

Cake & Desserts | The Wow Factor Cakes (cake and desserts); Cookies on the Side (iced sugar cookies)

Music/Entertainment | Carolina Royal Strings (ceremony); The A-Town A-List (reception)

Rentals | The Prettiest Pieces, High Point; Party Reflections; Carolina’s Luxury Event Rentals; Nuage Designs

Lighting | FireFly Productions

Custom Bar & Escort Card Wall | Dan Lanning

Stationery | Paper Betty (invitations, ceremony programs, menus, drink signage, and artwork for bar and dance-floor decals)

Kelsie Johanna Photography (@kelsiejohanna)

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10.07.2023

CHARLOTTE CHARM

ELLEN & GRAY DAVIS

Growing up, Ellen would flip through her parents’ wedding album and dream of her big day to come. When it finally arrived, choosing the reception venue was easy: Charlotte Country Club, where her parents had their celebration 32 years earlier.

“That was so special to me … it is a beautiful venue,” says Ellen, who married Gray at his childhood church, Myers Park United Methodist. Both born and raised in Charlotte and Myers Park grads, the couple met in passing at Selwyn Pub but didn’t start dating until a few years later when they ran into each other again. “I had actually asked him if he had any friends he could set me up with,” Ellen says with a laugh. “He had different plans!”

Ellen fell in love with her ivory dress the moment she tried it on, from the lace details on the bodice and skirt to the big bow at the back. “It reminded me of a royal wedding dress,” she says.

Family keepsakes were present throughout the wedding. Ellen wore her mom’s veil, which had also been worn by her grandmother and aunt. The couple cut the cake with the knife given to Ellen’s parents by Charlotte Country Club at their reception years ago.

Ellen and Gray’s favorite part? A quiet, private moment where they ate a quick bite before the reception. “It was nice to get a break from all the craziness and have that time for just the two of us,” Ellen says. “Plus, we got to try all of our amazing food!”

The couple opted for a buffet-style dinner to allow more time with guests and on the dance floor. Following the reception, they kept the celebration going, asking their getaway driver to take them to a familiar spot: Selwyn Pub, where their love story started.

Photographer | Piper Warlick Photography

Venue | Myers Park United Methodist Church (ceremony); Charlotte Country Club (reception)

Planner | Alexandra Madison Weddings, Columbia, S.C.

Floral Design | Charlotte’s Garden

Dress | Magnolia Bride, Charleston, S.C. (ceremony); Elliatt (reception)

Wedding Accessories | Badgley Mischka (shoes); Over The Moon (earrings)

Beauty | Jami Svay

Bridesmaids Dresses | Bella Bridesmaids

Rings | A Diamond In Time, Charleston, S.C.

Caterer & Cake | Charlotte Country Club

Entertainment | The Business Rentals | Party Reflections

Trolley | Sunway Charters

Stationery | The Buttercup

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kendra & hunter

09.15.2023

QUEEN

GARDEN GLAM

KENDRA & HUNTER JONES

Kendra and Hunter met in summer 2016 at a bar in Columbia, S.C., where they both attended the University of South Carolina. Friends initially, they began dating soon after. Six years later, Hunter proposed on Kendra’s birthday during a trip to Beech Mountain with friends. As everyone sang happy birthday and Kendra blew out the candles, Hunter got down on one knee.

At their wedding, Kendra was conflicted about whether to do a first look. The couple had dated a long time, and she wondered if waiting to see each other until the ceremony would be more special. Ultimately, they decided to do one, and it was their favorite part of the day. “It helps calm the nerves before walking down the aisle,” Kendra says. “It truly was a great moment, and I have no regrets.”

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden was the only venue the couple considered. They wanted to get married outdoors and appreciated the beautiful backdrop of the gardens. “It was the most perfect place for us,” Kendra says.

In choosing her dress, Kendra was drawn to the timeless style, detachable train and low back. Her wedding heels were short-lived — she took them off as soon as the ceremony was over. “I changed into slippers because my feet were hurting so bad from the night before,” Kendra says. “It was not planned, but they were so comfy I didn’t care!”

Doing what feels right for you and staying by your spouse’s side is most important on your wedding day, she advises. “The night goes by so fast, and looking back knowing you were with your spouse the whole time is the best feeling. I know it’s hard not to stress, but try not to. It seriously is the best day of your life … everything works out how it should.”

Photographer | Alexandra Blackmon Photography

Venue | Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, Belmont

Planner | Ashton Chesnutt, Magnificent Moments Weddings

Floral Design | Jimmy Blooms Floral Design

Dress | Lovely Bride

Makeup | Lovely by Lindsey, Huntersville

Bridesmaids Dresses | Birdy Grey

Groom & Groomsmen Attire | New York Bride & Groom

Caterer | Best Impressions Caterers

Cake | Edible Art Cake Shop

DJ | Jill Nigro, Carolina DJ Professionals

Stationery | The Knot

Photo: The Hazel Club

Photo: Emily Hogan Visuals

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Advertiser directory

ATTIRE

Alexia’s Bridal Boutique, p. 13 alexiasbridal.com

Paul Simon, p. 47 paulsimonco.com

BALLOONS + FLORALS

Anton Milano Designs, p. 65 instagram.com/antonmilanodesigns

BEAUTY + WELLNESS

Onyx Weight Loss Clinic, p. 45 onyxweightloss.com

CAKES + DESSERTS

Chez Marie, inside back cover chezmarieclt.com

Renaissance Patisserie, p. 37 renaissancepatisserie.com

CATERING + DINING + SPIRITS

Carolina Crafts on Tap, p. 78 carolinacraftsontap.com

Field Pea Catering, p. 10 fieldpeacatering.com

Resident Culture Brewing Co., p. 63 residentculturebrewing.com

Something Classic, p. 75 somethingclassic.com

Veronét Vineyards & Winery, p. 71 veronetwine.com

INVITATIONS + STATIONERY

Olive Paper, p. 12 olivepaper.net

Swoozies, p. 73 swoozies.com

JEWELRY

Diamonds Direct, p. 29 diamondsdirect.com

Elizabeth Bruns, p. 6 elizabethbruns.com

Fink’s Jewelers, inside front cover finks.com

Perry’s Diamonds & Estate Jewelry, p. 15 perrysjewelry.com

Sumpters Fine Jewelry, p. 59 sumptersjewelry.com

Windsor Jewelers, back cover windsor-jewelers.com

ORTHODONTICS

Three Leaf Orthodontics, p. 41 threeleafortho.com

RENTALS

Charlotte Prop Supply, p. 67 cltpropsupply.com

Curated Events Charlotte, p. 77 curatedevents.com/charlotte

SPECIALTY STORES + GIFT REGISTRIES

B.D. Jeffries, p. 21 bdjeffries.com

Bedside Manor, p. 4 bedsidemanor.com

Elizabeth Bruns, p. 6 elizabethbruns.com

SouthPark Mall, p. 76 simon.com/mall/southpark

Swoozies, p. 73 swoozies.com

VENUES

Anne Springs Close Greenway, p. 31 ascgreenway.org

Beau Monde, p. 8 beaumondevenues.com

Chetola Resort, p. 57 chetola.com

The Mint Museum, p. 55 mintmuseum.org

North Corner Haven, p. 2 northcornerhaven.com

Town of Elkin, p. 23 elkinnc.org

Veronét Vineyards & Winery, p. 71 veronetwine.com

WEDDING CONSULTANTS

Beau Monde, p. 8 beaumondevenues.com

Our Day, p. 41 matchourday.com

Happily hitched

Clockwise from top left: Kristin Byrum Photography, Piper Warlick Photography, Gayle Brooker, Virgil Bunao, Demi Mabry Photography, Alexandra Blackmon Photography