Weddings & Events With Style 2015

WEDDINGS & events with style

Real Weddings New Venues Inspired Fashion

T H E W EDDI NG GUIDE OF TH E C A R OLIN AS SIN C E 1 9 93 | BE ST W E D D IN G P L ANS .CO M

©www.wollwerthimagery.com

Storybook weddings come naturally here

866-976-7354  www.FrippIslandResort.com www.BestWeddingPlans.com

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an elegant space for hire

We do

Weddings Right Downtown Greenville’s premier event venue

Greenville • 924 S. Main St. 864-235-5770 zengreenville.com

www.BestWeddingPlans.com

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Weddings and Events with Style

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Allure Tuxedo by Jean Yves

Tuxedos It’s more than a Wedding; It’s Your Wedding.

Over the years, our family has been dedicated to helping couples select the appropriate formal attire for their ceremony.

Locally owned and operated by the same family for four generations and part of the local community. We will make sure your special day’s formal attire is perfect.

Commitment

We are committed to giving the best service possible; no gimmicks or pricing games. We have competitive pricing with unsurpassed service.

Style

We offer the latest styles from the most respected names in men’s formal-wear and one of the largest suppliers of Tuxedos in the Southeast.

Excellence

Because we stock our own inventory we can take care of any last minute additions or adjustments. Simply stated: Thomas & Sons is the best choice to rent or purchase the tuxedos for your wedding.

Visit one of our 4 Upstate Store Locations For an authorized partner near you, call 1-800-845-7088

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Greenville ◆ 743 Congaree Rd. ◆ Located next to Chiefs Wings in Skatell’s Shopping Center ◆ (864) 244-4721 Spartanburg’s Westside ◆ 1411. W.O. Ezell Blvd. ◆ Located next to The Castle Prom & Bridal ◆ (864) 576-4539 Spartanburg Downtown ◆ 276 S. Church St. ◆ Corporate Headquarters ◆ (800) 845-7088 Anderson ◆ 3434 N. Clemson Blvd. ◆ Located next to Cook-Out ◆ (864) 226-3323

View Styles on-line at www.thomasandsons.com

Indigo Hall

Photography by Sposa Bella

A Great Event Starts With The Right Venue www.indigohallevents.com | Spartanburg, SC

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an upscale

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Weddings and Events with Style

BRIDAL CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

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Weddings and Events with Style

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David Gregory

Personal Service - By Appointment

The Most Trusted Name in Formal Wear Since 1972 807 S. Main Street Greenville, SC 29601 Phone: 864.553.1013 david@gregorysformalwearonthego.com www.gregorysformalwearonthego.com

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Weddings and Events with Style

WEDDINGS & events with style

WHAT'S INSIDE...

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THE PLANNER PLANS presented by B & R Events TAYLOR AND BRAD presented by McConnell Hall Plantation LYNN AND KYLE presented by Greg Hall and Company BO AND DEVIN presented by the Upcountry History Museum PAMELA AND STINSON presented by the Chapman Cultural Center

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AUNDRAYA AND DONALD presented by the Greenville Marriott CATIE AND CHRISTOPHE presented by Mel Nocks Photography KEIGHLEE AND BRENT presented by Tim Holmes Catering ROBYN AND DONNIE presented by the Spartanburg Marriott Incredible Gowns, Formal Attire and Fashions

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BRITTANY AND WILL presented by the Ryan Nicholas Inn KATE AND GRADY presented by Good Life Catering AUBREY AND KEN presented by Buttercream Bakehouse CRYSTAL AND CHUCK presented by Greg Hall and Company MICHAEL AND BRITTANY presented by The Bleckley Inn NATHALIE AND ILYA presented by Expressive Focus

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CALLY AND MATTHEW presented by Complete Weddings and Events RUSS AND JENNA presented by Timberock at Hopkins Farm MARCI AND JOHN presented by the Younts Conference Center SARAH AND ADAM presented by the Events at the Davenport LAUREN AND TREVOR presented by Greg Hall and Company SPENCER AND GILLIAN presented by Buttercream Bakehouse

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William E. Flanagan, Publisher Jennafer B. Conley, Art Director Melissa Nocks, Feature Editor P.O. Box 16571 | Greenville, SC 29606 | 864-230-3680 | wewsinfo@aol.com | bestweddingplans.com Our cover model is Catie, photographed by Mel Nocks Photography at the Certus Loft at The Peace Center.

Weddings & Events With Style is published by Guide Media Group. The information contained in Weddings & Events With Style is believed to be accurate, however we do not guarantee accuracy or endorse the businesses featured in the publication or their practices. This publication contains, articles, editorials and graphics. Reproduction or use of any printed material in this publication without written permission of the Publisher is strictly forbidden. Copyright 2015 Weddings & Events With Style Magazine. All rights reserved. No compensation is paid or received for editorials featured. Printed in USA.

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THE PLANNER

Plans

Presented by B & R Events, LLC

Though Samantha with B & R Events, LLC. has planned over 100 weddings with various budgets, the love of my life had only ever been to 2 American weddings.

We chose the Hyatt’s Studio 220 because of all the windows, downtown location, and it was where Juergen proposed.

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We took the style approach with this mindset—it was going to be a fun celebration.

I love pink, gold, and sparkles. And I had to have a little bit of black and white. And a little bit of kitsch. It all started to come together.

Blush organza overlays, pink gossamer draped from the ceiling with crystal chandeliers, pink and white bags for donuts at the end of the night, and pink vases. Gold sequin table runners, gold chargers, gold mercury glass, and champagne chair covers. Black and white chevron napkins held with gold rhinestone napkin rings. Flowers ranging in color from all shades of pink, reds, and wine. Vintage style gold alarm clocks acted as table numbers to go with our “The time has come.” theme. And plenty of influence from my favorite fashion designer, kate spade.

We love food, I love wine, and Juergen loves beer and chocolate. A plated dinner so our guests could engage in conversation.

Our cake, from Couture Cakes, was iced in chocolate buttercream frosting and included Nutella filling. Our favors were custom beer steins, a gold South Carolina with a heart over Greenville, filled with German chocolates.

We love our friends, but didn’t want true-toform bridesmaids and groomsmen. My VIP girls wore black matte jersey gowns of their choosing and I gave each one of my dear friends kate spade new york rose gold bangle bracelets and coordinating earrings. Allison officiated, Claire played the harp, Mary Beth performed a reading, and Kristen helped me look fab.

Weddings and Events with Style

I found my gown for $99. I took it to Paula at the Poinsett Bride and she changed the neckline, added sleeves, and took it in. My jewelry was simple, rose gold chandelier earrings and the same bangle I gave to my girls. My shoes were pink – Charm by kate spade. Juergen kept his look classic. Ivory bow tie and vest with his black tuxedo and gold pocket square. His vest and pocket square were changed to pale pink for the ceremony and reception.

Our cocktail hour took place prior to the ceremony. I wore a crazy gold sequin gown instead of my wedding gown. Guests used gold stripe, black chevron, and pink polka dot straws and custom pink and gold napkins that we paired with kate spade confetti and polka dot napkins. Our guests enjoyed hors deourves while the Goodwin String Quartet played.

As the guests filed into Studio 220 for the ceremony, a medley of Beatles favorites was played by Claire on the harp. I changed back into my wedding gown with Juergen’s

assistance. The quartet joined Claire for our processional, “Somebody to Love” by Queen.

Juergen and I entered hand-in-hand. We stood under 3 spiral crystal chandeliers with hanging flowers. We exchanged vows. And our guests cried buckets of tears, or so I’ve being told. We kissed and won the universe together.

Our guests signed the Jenga game that Juergen used to tell me he loved me. A slide show of the 104 love note images that Juergen sent me via text during our courtship played on the TV over the bar. Juergen and I chose “My Love” by John Lennon for our first dance. At dinner we asked our guests trivia questions to give away the vintage style alarm clocks. DJ*EZ kept the dance floor full and some of our guests participated in a dance off. Shutter Booth provided everyone with an extra momento. I insisted on donut holes for everyone as they left to soak up the alcohol. We didn’t have a real “exit”. The remaining guests blew bubbles while Juergen and I danced. Then we all danced to “Shout”. It was a celebration, after all.

WEDDING RESOURCES: Bartending: Hyatt Regency // Beauty & Health: Bella Rouge // Catering: Hyatt Regency // Ceremony Venue: Hyatt Studio 220 // Ceremony Music: The Goodwin Quartet and Claire Stam (Harpist) // DJ/Entertainment/Music: DJ EZ // Dress & Attire: Custom by Poinsett Bride // Event Rental: CB Events, Industry Event Rentals // Flowers: Greg Foster // Guest Accommodations: Hyatt Regency // Invitations: B & R Events, LLC // Jewelry: Kate Spade, New York // Lighting: Jumpin’ Jukebox // Men’s Formal Wear: Joseph A. Bank // Officiant: Allison Merrill // Photography: Marshall Graham // Reception Venue: Hyatt Studio 220 // Rehearsal Dinner Location: The Commerce Club // Rentals (Tents/Décor/Linens/Tables): B & R Events, LLC // Videography: Jason Ayers // Wedding Cake: Couture Cakes // Wedding Planner: B & R Event, LLC

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+ Taylor BRAD Presented by McConnell Hall Plantation

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Weddings and Events with Style

BRAD AND I met in our college town, Clemson, South Carolina through mutual friends. We wanted our wedding day to be a celebration of peace, love, and music with all the people we love the most. The biggest thing we have in common is our love for all types of music. I grew up listening to The Beatles because my parents loved them.

Brad was aware of my love for The Beatles music and asked me to go see a Beatles tribute band for our very first Valentine’s Day together in Athens, Georgia. That very same band was our wedding band. We love seeing Abbey Road Live Band together and the music they play is very sentimental for us, so it was fitting to have that band as our wedding band. Brad’s favorite band of all time is The Allman Brothers Band, so, of course, we had to incorporate their music into our wedding as well. The processional and our first dance was to Allman Brother’s songs. We go to an Allman Brother’s Music Festival every year in April, which is why we chose to be married in April and to use Allman Brothers songs to help us celebrate our day. The songs we chose represented our style, our memories, and the sound of what our love would sound like. Our wedding was very boho chic with floral peace signs used for décor that my dad actually made. The

flowers were bright and happy colors for Spring full of yellow and white daisies, with peach berries to match the bride’s maids dresses. The theme of our wedding was a “Wedstock” focusing on 1 day of peace, love, and music! We really wanted our wedding to symbolize us and for our guests to be able to experience live music during the entire celebration. Our ceremony consisted of a violin, guitar, and mandolin trio.

Our reception was The Beatles cover band, Abbey Road Live. Our wedding day was our day, and I truly feel that the guests would agree that our wedding was a true representation of us and all the things we love. Our photographer Ansley Burke of Ansley Burke Photography did an exceptional job of capturing our day and events at the McConnell Hall. She was a pleasure to work with and knew what moments were special to us. McConnell Hall was the perfect venue because of the beautiful landscapes for an outdoorsy/bohemian, yet still classy and tasteful wedding. Also, the amenities the venue offered were uniquely superior. Booking McConnell Hall allowed use of the lodge as a rehearsal dinner location down the street from the plantation home, as well as the home and the all the land the home has to offer. Our ceremony was in the field in front of the home with a pond in the background behind the arbor. Our reception was in the plantation’s spacious backyard.

WEDDING RESOURCES: Band: Abbey Road Live- A Beatles Tribute Cover // Bartending: Churchill’s Pub // Beauty & Health: Taylor Heintze from Wilson’s on Washington // Catering: Foster’s Main Events // Ceremony Venue: McConnell Hall Plantation // Ceremony Music: Robbie Edwards // DJ /Entertainment/Music: Abbey Road Live // Dress & Attire: Boho Chic for Wedding Party, Informal for Guests // Flowers: Chez Julie’s // Invitations: PIP Printing-Anderson // Lighting & Decor: Foster’s Main Events // Men’s Formal Wear: Thomas & Sons // Officiant: Mark Casey // Photography: Ansley Burke Photography // Reception Venue: McConnell Hall // Rehearsal Dinner Location: McConnell Hall // Rentals (Tents/Décor/Linens/Tables): Foster’s Main Events // Videography: Quintan Ramsey // Wedding Planner: Katie Beth Johnson of Foster’s Main Events

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Weddings and Events with Style

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L�n� + KYLE

Presented by Greg Hall & Company THE LOVE STORY: Kyle and Lynn grew up in the same hometown, with a lot of the same friends, but the two never hung out together. It was not until after college, and after the death of Kyle’s oldest brother, that the two were reconnected at a Clemson football game. Lynn never thought she would date a Carolina gamecock, but this love would eventually grow into a house divided.

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Weddings and Events with Style

THE PROPOSAL: Kyle planned a surprise trip for the two, where he was originally planning to pop the question. After much googling of horror stories in customs, he decided it would be best to ask prior to the trip, to avoid any unwanted surprises. One afternoon, Kyle began to show Lynn pictures of the surprise destination in Zihuatanejo, Mexico. As he was finishing showing her the surprise, he got down on one knee and said “I need to ask you one more question before our trip, will you marry me?" She said yes, and so the wedding planning began.

THE DRESS: Lynn's mother, her best friend, and soon to be mother-in-law all joined Lynn as she tried on dresses for the very first time.

Her store of choice was the Poinsett Bride located in downtown Greenville, SC. She went in with no ideas of what type of dress she wanted, so this left room for endless options. She was able to narrow the beautiful dresses to about six, which was no easy feat.

The fourth dress she tried on was "the one," and she knew it the moment she saw the tears in her mother-in-law's eyes. It only took about 45 minutes for her to find her perfect dress, which definitely took away a lot of the wedding stress.

THE BIG DAY: Kyle and Lynn knew that they wanted their special day to be meaningful and a day to remember. The venue was Cross Creek farm, where Kyle grew up with his family. This is also the farm where Kyle's oldest brother and father were laid to rest.

Having the wedding there felt like they were a part of everything too. The barn was decorated similar to a chapel, with beautiful candlelit chandeliers that hung from the barn rafters.

Stained glass windows were hung above where the couple stood for the vows, and guests sat on old wooden church pews. The theme was that of a rustic fairytale. Lynn's uncle, who is a minister, did the opening portion of the ceremony, while Lynn's father walked

her down the aisle. After Lynn's father, who is also a minister, gave his little girl away, he then proceeded to officiate the ceremony. The wedding was absolutely perfect and went off with no problems at all. This story book like wedding was made possible because of the love and support from their friends and family.

THE RECEPTION: The best part of any wedding!! The reception was located right next to the barn under a huge tent. The food was arranged in the round pin, where Kyle and his family trained many horses. The menu for the night ranged from homemade soups, to shrimp and grits, to a biscuit bar with delicious carved meats and homemade jellies. Groove planet, along with Craig Sorrells helped the guests to dance the night away. The couple had a sparkler sendoff that sent them away to wedded bliss. The couple then spent the first two weeks of marriage honeymooning in Bora Bora.

WEDDING RESOURCES: Catering: JA Carr’s Catering // Ceremony & Reception Venue: Cross Creek Farm Anderson, SC // Band: Groove Planet with Craig Sorrells // Flowers: Greg Hall & Company // Photography: Josh Wilson Photography // Wedding Cake: Pammy the Cake Lady, LLC.

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www.BestWeddingPlans.com

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Weddings and Events with Style

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BO +

Devin Presented by Upcountry History Museum

THE STORY: Bo and I met while attending Clemson University. In the winter of 2010, during finals week, a mutual friend had saved a table in the library where we both ended up studying. Fast-forward spring 2011, our paths crossed again at a bonfire Bo hosted at his house. We got to know each other better that night and we continued to spend time together throughout the semester. We had a lot more in common than we thought despite the fact that I am from New Jersey and Bo is from a small town in Alabama. Shortly after the end of the semester we began dating. After dating for 2 years, Bo proposed on October 3, 2014 on the Clemson soccer field.

Bo played soccer for Clemson, and I had attended more games than I could count, so the location was perfect and meaningful to

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us both!

Weddings and Events with Style

THE DETAILS: Bo and I both decided we wanted to have a fall wedding. However, I got accepted to a Physician Assistant program in New Jersey in March, so we decided it was best to get married before I started. We decided a July wedding would be best and knew without a doubt we wanted to get married in Greenville. This meant that both of our families would need to travel. We wanted a reception site that was unique and full of character. When my mom and I visited the Upcountry History Museum I knew it was the place! I loved the atmosphere and the fact our out-of-state guests could learn about the Upstate. I also loved that the museum had a lot of its own decor and it was not just a blank slate. I did not hire a wedding planner but the best decision I ever made was hiring Kim Adams as my day of coordinator.

There were a lot of little personal touches Bo and I incorporated into our wedding. We had cookies and milk served at 10 PM since cookies are my favorite dessert. Bo and I go on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic every summer so in lieu of wedding favors, we decided to sponsor two children from the Dominican Republic. Bo and I both wanted a simple yet elegant wedding with a laid back feel for everyone to enjoy. At times it seemed like a challenge, but we managed to blend our Southern and Northern cultures together to make the perfect wedding!

THE BIG DAY: July 12th finally arrived and I could not have been more excited to marry my best friend! The day was perfect besides a few laughable OH NO moments that I will cherish forever. Bo’s aunts put on a lovely Saturday morning brunch for the out-oftown guests and before I knew it I was getting into my dress. Bo and I got marred in the church we attended in Greenville, Downtown Presbyterian. The reception soon followed and the night was perfect! The venue, food, cake, music, and flowers, were exactly what we had envision. We feel so blessed and could not have asked for a better day!

WEDDING RESOURCES: Catering: Reeve’s Catering // Ceremony Venue: Downtown Presbyterian Church // DJ: ProsOnly Entertainment // Flowers: Willow Florals // Guest Accommodations: The Westin Poinsett, Hampton Inn & Suites // Men’s Formal Wear: Magnolia’s Bridal Collections // Officiant: Reverend Rob Bailey // Photography: Jacob Dean Photography // Reception Venue: Upcountry History Museum // Rehearsal Dinner Location: High Cotton // Wedding Cake: Holly’s Cakes // Wedding Planner: Kim Adams

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Weddings and Events with Style

+ Pamela STINSON Presented by the Chapman Cultural Center

WEDDING RESOURCES: Venue: Chapman Cultural Center // Catering: Rice Family Catering // Floral: Carolyn’s Flowers // Lighting + Decor: Yuli Smith Music: The Enforcers // DJ: The Enforcers // Rentals: Event Rentals and Carolyn’s Flowers // Photography: Rhonda Manns // Videography: Fred Dawkins // Bartending: Bonikee Wilkens and Tonie Foggie // Beauty + Health: Bonikee Wilkens Dress + Attire: The Castle and Thomas & Sons // Invitations: Action Printing // Jewelry: David’s Bridal // Mens Formal Wear: Thomas & Sons // Officiant: Pastor Rosavelt Copeland // Wedding Cake: Spartan Bakery // Wedding Planner: Vanisha Copeland

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Aundraya +

DONALD

Presented by Greenville Marriott

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Weddings and Events with Style

WITH A FAMILY as large as Aundraya’s, and a group of friends as connected as Donald’s, there was only one way to celebrate their union; with a wedding ceremony and reception that was as big as the love they share for one another.

After meeting in the fall of 2008 at a college party near the campus of North Carolina A&T, Aundraya and Donald shared a friendship that spanned many miles as they built the foundation for their future relationship.

And after 4 years of living apart, they would relocate to the same city and begin to work towards marriage.

When it came time to prepare for the wedding, Aundraya and Donald wanted to create an atmosphere that was both elegant and enjoyable. So they set their eyes on the Marriott in Greenville, SC where they were able to host more than 250 guests to a ceremony, cocktail hour and open bar reception.

Today, Aundraya is a Project Manager for AT&T and Donald is a Business Development Manager for ExxonMobil. They now live happily in Seat Pleasant, MD along with their dog Blu, and will soon be relocating to Houston, TX.

WEDDING RESOURCES: Bartending: Marriott Staff // Beauty & Health: Makeup – Renata Jones Stewart with Miss Jones Makeup Artistry Artist Hair: Tiffany Shepard // Catering: Greenville Marriott // Ceremony Venue: Greenville Marriott- Champagne Ballroom // Ceremony Music: Patrice Nickols // DJ /Entertainment/Music: DJ Bran (Brandon Ivery) // Dress & Attire: Wedding Gown & Bridesmaid Dresses – Dimitra Designs // Event Rental: Avery & Co. // Flowers: Whole Foods & Sam’s Club // Guest Accommodations: Greenville Marriott // Jewelry: Bride - Tiffany & Co. // Lighting & Decor: Avery & Co // Men’s Formal Wear: The BLK Tux // Officiant: Dr. Charles H. Davis, Tabernacle Baptist Church // Photography: Aperture Vision Photography // Photobooth: Scene You There // Reception Venue: Greenville Marriott – Chateau Ballroom // Rehearsal Dinner Location: Soby's // Rentals (Tents/Décor/Linens/Tables): Décor & Linens- Avery & Co. Tables - Marriott // Videography: FamZing Photography & Video // Wedding Cake: Chavelitad Cupcakes // Wedding Planner: Nina Davis

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Weddings and Events with Style

MELNOCKSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

864.979.5278

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+ Ca�i� CHRISTOPHE Presented by Mel Nocks Photography

NOVEMBER 8, 2014 CERTUS LOFT AT THE PEACE CENTER

Elegant meets dreamy when this classy couple commit their lifelong love with the heart of Greenville as their backdrop.

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Weddings and Events with Style

CATIE AND CHRISTOPHE met their sophomore year at Vanderbilt University, and got to know each other on a Fall break trip to Lexington, KY, where they discovered a mutual love of horse racing and Jack O' Lanterns. Nine years later, they exchanged wedding vows on their anniversary weekend surrounded by 100 of their closest friends and family. The couple now calls Washington, DC home, but they chose Greenville, where Catie was born, as their wedding destination. Truly using the beauty of the city as their backdrop they decided to do a first look on the Liberty Bridge in Falls Park, followed by pictures on the park grounds. Their candlelight ceremony was held in the front space of the Certus Loft. Following, the guests enjoyed a cocktail hour with a full bar and a signature drink of Blenheim & Burboun. Guests were then seated in the larger room for dinner and dancing. They enjoyed themselved amidst a heavenly oasis of creamy neutrals, candles and cut crystal. The party continued with laughter and dancing. The newly wedded couple exited through a tunnel of sparklers and made their escape in a vintage Mercedes. Truly, not a detail was overlooked at this stunning affair!

WEDDING RESOURCES: Photography: Mel Nocks Photography // Venue: Certus Loft at the Peace Center // Catering: Table 301 // Decor/Floral: Epting Events // Music: WireWood // DJ: Kalu Records & Entertainment // Lighting: Optrics, Ltd. // Rentals: PPR // Photobooth: Shutterbooth // Dress: Catherine Deane (a&bĂŠ bridal shop) // Menswear: JoS. A Bank // Cake: Table 301 // Hair & Makeup: Ivy Salon (Hair), Sephora (Makeup)

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W edding101

You're right...

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It’s your day.

You want it to be perfect.

We do too!

From the bridal shower to the farewell brunch and all the amazing events in between.

In one of our restaurants or at another perfect location of your choosing, 0ur catering team works closely with you to create the fairy tale wedding of your dreams.

With Table 301, the wedding possibilities are endless.

We can’t wait to start working with you on your big day, please call 864.232.7007 to get your plans underway.

www.Table301Catering.com soby’s soby’s on the side passerelle bistro papi’s tacos

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the lazy goat nose dive gastropub the loft at soby’s table 301 catering

Weddings and Events with Style

We’re Not Wedding Planners; We’re Your Connection To The Area’s Best Wedding Professionals.

We're Your Place To Plan. www.Wedding101.net 807 S Main Street | Greenville, SC 29601 864.233.6404 | info.greenville@Wedding101.net Tuesday–Friday 11–5 | Saturday 11-3 | Sunday & Monday Closed

Holmes

Cater ng

From

Tradit ional t o Trendsett ing

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864.357.1578 • TimHolmesCatering.com

Catering & Event Planning

www.BestWeddingPlans.com

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Robyďż˝+

DONNIE Presented by the Spartanburg Marriott

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Weddings and Events with Style

ROBYN AND DONNIE met at Furman University in Greenville, SC during their freshman year in 1997. They were on brother-sister halls and met during orientation. They became friends quickly and were best friends by the end of their time at Furman. Robyn graduated in 2001 and left for graduate school, followed by medical school and ended up in Charlotte, NC for her medical residency and internal medicine practice.

Donnie graduated in 2002 and ultimately became an administrator and offensive coordinator of his high school football team in his hometown of Gaffney, SC. They maintained a friendship from a distance but reconnected in May 2012.

Their relationship developed into a romantic one and Donnie proposed in June 2013 on the beach at sunset (one of Robyn’s favorite things) in Myrtle Beach, SC. On the day of the wedding, Robyn and her bridal party got ready at her parent’s (Robert & Gail Brewer) house in Moore, SC. Donnie and his groomsmen got ready at his house in Gaffney, SC. They were married in Robyn’s home church, Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Spartanburg, SC. They were married by their college friend, Minister Rodney Johnson. Their wedding party included friends and family members. Music was provided by Donnie’s cousin, Alphaeus Anderson, along with the Pinner Quartet and was directed by Robyn’s former choir director, Tamela Spann. The wedding was attended by nearly 600 guests. It was followed by a reception at the Spartanburg Marriott. Selecting the venue was not an easy task. There are many fabulous places to have wedding events in the Upstate, but the incredible Spartanburg Marriott is in our opinion “tops”. The hotel is one of the most beautiful in the state. The Ballrooms are simply beautiful and of the course the Grand Staircase has become an Upstate landmark. The first dance songs were picked by Donnie and were a surprise for Robyn. They were 2 of the couple’s favorite songs, All of Me by John Legend and The Rest of My Life by Brian McKnight. Robyn and her father, Robert, danced to You Raise Me Up performed by the Java Band. Robyn was serenaded by the members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, her sorority sisters and later by the members of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated, Donnie’s fraternity brothers. Toasts were given by Robyn’s Godsister, Kim Odom, one of her best friends from college, Raegan Tuff, her brother, Richard Brewer, and Donnie’s best man, Dominique Stevenson. Dinner was followed by dancing with music provided by the Java Band. It could not have been better, great family, friends and the team at the Spartanburg Marriott who made it all possible.

WEDDING RESOURCES: Band: Java Band // Bartending: Spartanburg Marriott // Beauty& Health Deidra Mills (make-up artist), Cynthia Lee (hair stylist) // Catering: Spartanburg Marriott // Ceremony Venue: Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church // Ceremony Music: Alphaeus Anderson (musician), Tamela Spann (musical director), CJ Butler (soloist), Pinner String Quartet // DJ/Entertainment/Music: Java Band // Dress & Attire: Mecklenburg Bridal Gallery (wedding dress), The Wedding Mall (bridesmaids, flower girl dresses) // Flowers: Botanica Event Design // Guest Accommodations: Spartanburg Marriott // Invitations: Magnet Street (invitations), Wedding Paper Divas (save the dates) // Jewelry: Donald Haack Diamonds (engagement ring, wedding bands), Hartzog’s Gifts & Fine Jewelers (bride’s jewelry), Handpicked (bridesmaids’ jewelry) // Lighting & Décor: Spartanburg Marriott // Men’s Formal Wear: Men’s Wearhouse // Officiant: Minister Rodney Johnson // Photography: Sposa Bella Photography // Reception Venue: Spartanburg Marriott // Rehearsal Dinner Location: Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church // Transportation: Atchison Transportation Services // Videography: Complete Greenville // Wedding Cake: Holly’s Cakes // Wedding Planner: Upstate I Do

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+ KateGRADY

Presented by Good Life Catering

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Weddings and Events with Style

"WE MET on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic sponsored by the Church we attend and where we got married. We are both from South Carolina and after years of living in larger cities we returned here to live and wanted our wedding to reflect our chosen home."

WEDDING RESOURCES: Band: Men of Distinction // Bartending: Good Life Catering // Beauty & Health: Whitney Bullock (Hair) Sandra Johnson (Make Up) // Catering: Good Life Catering // Ceremony Venue: Westminister Presbyterian Church // Ceremony Music: Mark & Kelly Kemp (Duet) Craig King (Trumpet) Nancy Smith (Organ) // Dress & Attire: The Dress // Flowers: Frilly Bloomers // Guest Accommodations: Hyatt Regency // Invitations: Carlson Craft // Jewelry: John Redmond, Kate Spade // Men’s Formal Wear: Men’s Wearhouse // Officiant: Rev. Ludwig Weaver // Photography: Nick Strocchia // Reception Venue: Upcountry History Museum // Rehearsal Dinner Location: Larkin’s // Rentals (Tents/Décor/Linens/Tables): Upstate Event Services // Transportation: Jean’s Bus Services // Unique Services (Other): Reedy River Rickshaw-getaway pedicab // Videography: Special Moments Video // Wedding Cake: Brick Street Cafe // Wedding Planner: Christine Faust Events

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Aubrey + KEN

Presented by Buttercream Bakehouse

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Weddings and Events with Style

KEN AND AUBREY met while both at The University of South Carolina. They had mutual friends and Aubrey was a part of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority with both of Ken's sisters.

Ken always had a crush on Aubrey, but Ken was gradating as Aubrey was just beginning school. Ken and Aubrey only saw each other a couple of times during the next two and a half years, but it wasn't until Ken's sister's wedding February, 2013 that they hit it off.

Aubrey entered the church and Ken took her arm and ushered her to a seat. They danced at the reception. Ken had people ask him if he and Aubrey were together, their chemistry was so strong and evident to all that witnessed.

Ken and Aubrey quickly fell in love and Ken proposed downtown on the Liberty Bridge, February 22, 2014, a year and 20 days since it had all began. Their love and excitement for each other radiates and was truly captured on their wedding day. Aubrey was raised at Brookwood Church in Simpsonville, so that is where the ceremony and vows were held.

They then were driven in a Gamecock Garnet vintage car to the reception and it sat parked in the circle drive of the home under Italian String Lights.

WEDDING RESOURCES: Band: The Hit Mob // Beauty & Health: Plush Hair, Inc., Ivy Salon // Catering: Holy Smokers, Bryan Merritt // Ceremony Venue: Brookwood Church // Ceremony Music: Brookwood Church Worship Pastor and team // Dress & Attire: Maggie Soterro Gown from The Castle // Event Rental: Event Rentals // Flowers: Betty Zeller // Guest Accommodations: Drury Inn // Invitations: Heather Marchbanks // Lighting & Decor: Event Rentals // Men’s Formal Wear: Vera Wang from Men’s Wearhouse // Officiant: Fenton Moorhead, Perry Duggar // Photography: Jana Candler Photography // Photobooth: S & D Partytyme Photobooth // Reception Venue: Family Home // Rehearsal Dinner Location: Poinsett Club // Rentals (Tents/Décor/ Linens/Tables): Event Rentals // Transportation: Brookshire Automotive-vintage car // Wedding Cake: Buttercream Bakehouse

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C�ystal + CHUCK

Presented by Greg Hall & Company

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Weddings and Events with Style

WEDDING RESOURCES: Bartending: The Bleckley Inn // Beauty & Health: Elberton Nails, and Lilia Day Spa // Catering: Tim Holmes // Ceremony Venue: The Bleckely Inn Boutique Hotel // Ceremony Music: The Party Machine // DJ /Entertainment/Music: The Party Machine // Dress & Attire: Davids Bridal, Dressing Dreams // Event Rental: Greg Hall and Company/A Vintage Affair // Flowers: Greg Hall and Company // Guest Accommodations: The Bleckley Inn // Jewelry: etsy.com // Jewelry: zazzle.com // Lighting & Decor: Greg Hall and Company/ A Vintage Affair // Men’s Formal Wear: Petal Pushers // Officiant: Paul Paramore // Photography: Deanna Segars/ Beyond the Lens // Reception Venue: The Bleckely Inn Carriage House // Rehearsal Dinner Location: The Bleckley Inn/ Benson Room // Rentals (Tents/Décor/Linens/Tables): Greg Hall and Company // Wedding Cake: Poor Girls Cakes and Pastries/ Betty Trainer // Wedding Planner: Stephanie Dochney and Shelby Clardy

MICHAEL +

Brittany Presented by The Bleckley Inn

WEDDING RESOURCES: Bartending: The Bleckley Inn // Beauty & Health: Browning Studio // Catering: Kathy and Company // Ceremony Location: The Bleckley Inn // Ceremony Music: ProsOnly Entertainment // DJ/Entertainment/Music: ProsOnly Entertainment // Dress & Attire: David’s Bridal // Flowers: Sherri Lamm // Guest Accommodations: The Bleckley Inn // Invitations: Invitations by Dawn // Lighting & Decor: Brittany Wilson // Men’s Formal Wear: Mens Wearhouse and Hanners Outfitters // Officiant: Reverend Dr. Richard Hanners // Photography: Alison Phelps Photography // Photobooth: Shutterbooth // Reception Venue: The Bleckley Inn // Rehearsal Dinner Location: The Bleckley Inn // Rentals: Event Rentals // Unique Services: The Crescent Olive // Wedding Cake: Kathy and Company // Wedding Planning: Brittany Wilson and Sherri Lamm

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All Over the Map When Ilya and Nathalie met at a New Year’s party, they knew it was love at first sight. But falling in love turned out to be the easy part. Actually tying the knot was much harder.

Both Ilya and Nathalie had attended university in Massachusetts, but other than that, their lives – and families – were all over the map. Nathalie grew up in France, where her parents served as missionaries before moving to South Carolina. Ilya, meanwhile, grew up in Colorado after his family moved there from Ukraine.

“At the time of the New Year’s party, we lived in different states so from there we continued our relationship through endless phone conversations, Skype, email, and visits cross-country,” Nathalie recalls.

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Ilya bought Nathalie’s engagement ring after two years of long-distance dating, but he waited another two-and-a-half years to slip it onto her finger.

“It has been one of my priorities during the past few years to visit all of the places where Nathalie spent her childhood before I would propose,” he says.

“As silly as it may seem, this was one of my conditions.”

Things finally came together in the summer of 2013, when the couple traveled to France to visit Nathalie’s relatives. A fter a day strolling around Paris, they ended up at Nathalie’s favorite spot, Sacre Coeur, which offered the best view in the city. There, Ilya offered Nathalie a ring hidden in the pedals of a rose.

Without hesitation, she responded in his native Russian: “Da!” With family and friends scattered across the U.S. and around the world, choosing a wedding venue was no small feat. Because both Nathalie and Ilya had roots in South Carolina, they finally settled on Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston. Even so, they knew that many special people would never be able to make it for their special day.

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To better share the occasion with loved ones around the world, the couple chose to supplement traditional wedding photos with a professional video from Expressive Focus. “Both photos and videos are great ways of capturing an event but we believe that each are very different in their functions,” Nathalie explains. “A video is great since you get to ‘relive’ the events in action. Also many of our family members sang, and gave very powerful speeches. These precious moments are so dear to have ‘live.’

“We used the video to share our most special moments. Many of our friends are located all around the world and were not able to come to the wedding.

With the video we are able to share our special day with those who were unable to come but also relive that day again as we remember. “A great thank you to amazing videographers!”

If you’d like to see Nathalie and Ilya’s special day for yourself, you can view the full video by scanning the QR code below.

For more information on Expressive Focus – including both still photography and videography – please call us at 864-214-5932 or send us an email to: info@expressivefocus.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY DJ VIDEO PHOTO BOOTH LIGHTING

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Call� + MATTHEW

Presented by COMPLETE Weddings & Events

CALLY’S THOUGHTS ON HER “COMPLETE” DAY “At the beginning of the day I had all my closest friends spend the night with me at my parent’s house.”

“Favorite moment was when she came down stairs and Matt’s surprise at seeing her in the dress!”

“Hanging out outside the chapel with her dad.

He was sharing funny stories with bride and bridesmaids.”

“Beautiful organ music made the moment more powerful.”

“Really proud of dad for not crying….then he cried when he gave the father of the bride speech at the reception.”

“Memorable moment – Vocal of The Prayer during the pouring of the sand. “ “Loved the DJ Dan Murray. Really fun!”

“Favorite part was having bridal party and guest form train around reception, then finish with dance surrounded by family and friends.”

“The day went just exactly the way I wanted and planned.”

“Bridesmaids wrote letters to bride and made scrapbook of them. Gave them that morning while they were getting hair and makeup done.”

“Cake was elegant and detailed. Exactly how she had designed it.”

“Surreal realizing that she was about to walk down the aisle to get married.”

“Advice, to stop and look around and take it all in.”

Cally awoke on July 5, 2014 with excitement, surrounded by her closest friends and bridesmaids. Today was her wedding day!Almost instantly the house was abuzz with activity. Cally went from hair, to makeup, to special gifts from friends. And before she knew it, she was at the church, stepping into her beautiful gown. As Cally posed for pictures with family and friends, and then had a first look with her groom, she realized that this day was exactly what she had wanted and spent so many hours planning.

WEDDING RESOURCES: Band: Singers: Nicki Euote and Sergio Gomez // Beauty & Health: Maid-of-Honor Brianna Forthous // Catering: Bell Tower Catering // Ceremony Location: Daniel Chapel Furman University // Ceremony Music: Organist: Charles Tompkins Furman University // DJ/Entertainment/Music: Dan Murray COMPLETE Weddings & Events // Dress & Attire: David’s Bridal // Flowers: Fairytale Florist // Guest Accommodations: Holiday Inn & Suites Greenville Downtown // Invitations: Bride & Groom Printed by Bellis Copy Center Bob Jones University // Jewelry: Mother-in-Law, Grandmother’s diamond, Zale’s Jewlers, David’s Bridal // Lighting & Decor: COMPLETE Weddings & Events, Fairytale Florist, Hobby Lobby // Men’s Formal Wear: Thomas and Sons // Officiant: Dr. David Dockery (Uncle) & Ben Dockery (Cousin) // Photography: Emily Snyder COMPLETE Weddings & Events // Photobooth: Diana Sebastian COMPLETE Weddings & Events // Reception Venue: Daniel Chapel Furman University // Rehearsal Dinner Location: Upcountry History Museum // Rentals: Bells Tower Catering // Wedding Cake: Buttercream Bakehouse // Wedding Planning: Director - Mary Hearne

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Lauren + TREVOR Presented by Greg Hall & Company

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HOW WE MET We both attended Anderson University and met through mutual friends.

He was interested before I was! He was a ministry major and I was a Theatre major, and I thought we had little in common. But through ultimate frisbee, flowers, long walks, school dances, surprise parties, movies, a shared Lord of the Rings obsession, and late night milkshakes, I realized I was mistaken!

We became an official couple in April of 2011, became engaged on New Years Eve of 2014 (or December 2013), and married on October 12, 2014.

THE EVENT We had what we called a "wedding weekend." Our immediate families and some members of the bridal party stayed in cabins at WildWater, near the wedding venue. We stayed the entire weekend, even hosting a bridal party field day and the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner at those beautiful cabins. Sunday morning, October 12th, 2014 began as a rainy, cloudy, wet day. Despite this, we both relaxed in our individual cabins with our families and bridal parties. (10 bridesmaids, 6 honorary bridesmaids, and 10 groomsmen) The girls had breakfast, mimosas, and a morning of primping and dancing, while the men "chilled" and watched football while putting on their suits. At about 2 pm, we had

messengers exchange our gifts (his, a watch, hers perfume). By 3 o'clock, the rain stopped, leaving a gorgeous misty fog drifting through the trees and mountains. 3:30 pm held our first look, a private moment by the side vineyard.

The ceremony began at 4:15pm in the venues lower vineyard. The reception, held in the venues barn pavilion, began immediately after, and lasted until 10pm. During our ceremony, we celebrated by participating in the braiding of three cords, and communion. Another special thing was that our officiant was Trevor’s grandfather. At the reception, our DJ expertly helped guide the buffet by using a "sing for your supper" technique for each table! It was hilarious, and so much fun! We participated in most of the typical reception traditions: toasts, father/daughter dance, mother/son dance, cake cutting, dancing, garter and bouquet toss.

The bouquet toss actually consisted of three bouquets, representing the three different bouquets given to me by Trevor on our first date :) All the personal touches were done by friends: signs drawn/made by friends, favors made by hand by my aunt and friend of the family, and toasting glasses painted by friend Kristal. At the end of the night, Trevor and I exited in a bubbles and bells send off! Wonderful, beautiful day made possible by so many of our loved ones.

WEDDING RESOURCES: Beauty & Health: Makeup by Elyse South and Lydia Carraway, Hair by Kristal Traitwhein // Catering: Tim Holmes Catering // Ceremony Venue: Chattooga Belle Farm (Vineyard) // Ceremony Music: Carolina Party Professionals // DJ /Entertainment/Music: Carolina Party Professionals // Dress & Attire: Gown – Allure Bridals, Bridesmaids – Watters // Event Rental: Greg Hall and Company // Flowers: Greg Hall and Company // Guest Accommodations: Wildwater Chattooga // Invitations: Andrea Sturgell, Chirp Paperie // Lighting & Decor: Greg Hall and Company // Men’s Formal Wear: Joseph A. Banks // Officiant: Grandfather of the Groom, Roger “Bud” Cleveland // Photography: Angela Cox Photography // Reception Venue: Chattooga Belle Farm (barn) // Rehearsal Dinner Location: Grooms family cabin at Wildwater // Rentals (Tents/Décor/Linens/Tables): Tri-County Rental // Videography: Micah Taylor // Wedding Cake: Tasteful Elegance // Wedding Planner: Cynthia Phillips

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