St. Simons Island Sea Island Jekyll Island Little St.

Simons Island Brunswick

Goldenisles.com | (800) 809-1790
Evergreen Plantation
Weddings & Events

4800 Highway 187 South Starr, SC 29684

www.evergreen-plantation.com
Jessica Faulkenberry - Event Coordinator 864.437.3400

3
From the Editor

I didnt do this on purpose: Our two main features this

issue are opposite weddings from opposite brides. But both

are gorgeous events with beautiful details and lots of ideas

for all different types of personalities.

Margaret and Matt had a formal, elegant indoor affair an

evening ceremony at Eastminster Presbyterian Church and a reception at

Forest Lake Club. Bridesmaids wore long matching gowns, Matt and his

groomsmen wore tuxes, and a bagpiper wore a kilt. Margaret, whose mom

describes her as very traditional, wore a fit-and-flare gown with lace and

beading and a cathedral veil. She did a first look with her dad, but Matt saw Our cover bride is Margaret Strom, who married
Matt Williams on Feb. 18 at Eastminster
her for the first time walking down the aisle.
Presbyterian Church, with a reception at Forest
Mary Kathryn and David had a relaxed outdoor ceremony at the Millstone Lake Club. Read their story on page 10.
Photo by Gordon Humphries
at Adams Pond and an indoor-outdoor reception following. Her bridesmaids

wore short white dresses they chose themselves, David wore a suit, and

groomsmen wore sport coats and khaki pants. The brides mom said, Mary

Kathryn goes with the flow. Greenery and hiking rope were included in the Volume 13, Number 2 | Summer/fall 2017

outdoors lovers decor, and family and friends signed a pair of skis instead Sara Johnson Borton
President and Publisher
of a guest book. Mary Kathryn wore a flowing strapless gown, and she and publisher@thestate.com

David did a first look because they wanted photos out of the way so they Bernie Heller
Vice President of Advertising
could get to the reception. bheller@thestate.com

In our shorter features, the weddings all seem to have been a long Kathy Allen
Director of Marketing
time coming. David liked Corina immediately and it was no secret but kallen@thestate.com

Rebekah Lewis Hall

Corina friend-zoned him. Addison and Chris started out as friends at
Special Projects Coordinator
rhall@thestate.com
the University of South Carolina. Caroline and TJ, her brothers roommate,
Questions about content in Carolina Bride?
had known of each other for years even serving in a mutual friends wedding carolinabride@thestate.com or 803-771-8624

together as children. And while Virginia Boyd and John started dating soon after Questions about advertising in Carolina Bride?
803-771-8372
they met, their relationship was long-distance for nearly two years before they
4

married. All four had beautiful colors and details, not to mention sweet stories.

Carolina Bride, a publication of The State Media Company,

is not associated with the editorial department of The State
Media Company. Carolina Bride is printed twice yearly. All
contents Carolina Bride magazine. All rights reserved.
Reproduction or use of the contents, in whole or in part,
without prior written permission of the publisher, is strictly
prohibited. The magazine is not responsible for unsolicited
manuscripts, photography, or artwork.
A once in a lifetime experience begins here...

Courtesy of Lifes Treasures Photography, LLC.

Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions | Rehearsal Dinners | Luncheons

Non-member bookings welcome. Call and schedule a tour today. 5

2745 Grifith Drive | Orangeburg, SC 29118 | www.orangeburgcc.com | (803) 534-5988

Contents

in this
issue
Margaret & Matt......................... 10
Mary Kathryn & David............... 18
Lowcountry insert
Callie & Nick............................... 26
Corey & Marquel........................ 30
Wedding Belles........................... 32
Lowcountry Reception Venues.34

Corina & David ........................... 36

6

Addison & Chris ......................... 40

Caroline & JT.............................. 44
Virginia Boyd & John................. 48
Advertiser Index......................... 55
Reception Venues...................... 56
SOUTHERN STYLE

701WHALEY.COM
Photo credit: Melissa Brewer Photography
WEDDINGS | SPECIAL EVENTS | MEETINGS | REHEARSAL DINNERS | 803 771-0101
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 Margaret
& Matt
10

Photos by
Gordon Humprhies,
Jacqueline Male,
David Owens Photography
and Caroline Weaver
for Gordon Humphries Photography
gordonhumphries.com
 Friends
find their
fairy tale
By Lezlie Patterson

M
Special to Carolina Bride

att Williams and Margaret Stroms

lives were entwined since their
childhoods, but growing up they
didnt know it or each other.
They lived in the same area of
Columbia, knew some of the same people, and both
were active at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
But they didnt meet until they were in law
school at the University of South Carolina.
We were two years apart, and our paths just
never crossed, Margaret says.
Then on October 1, 2011, both were tailgating at
the same place before the USC-Auburn football
game. The Gamecocks, who finished 11-2 that sea-
son, lost to Auburn 16-13. But while the game was
disappointing, their meeting was not.
They ran into each other at school soon after,
and a friendship-at-first-sight quickly grew into a
relationship. They dated 4 years, during which
time they graduated from law school, passed the
bar exam and found jobs that eventually landed
them in Beaufort.
And that is where Matt proposed. Margaret, an
assistant solicitor for the Fourteenth Judicial
Circuit in Beaufort, knew the day was coming, but
she had no idea it would be on the cloudy March
evening it occurred.
I had some requirements I had to follow, Matt
said with a chuckle. We had to have pictures, she
wanted our families there and she wanted it to
be a surprise.
He also knew that Margaret would want to be
dressed up for the photos.
Leaving nothing to chance, Matt a private prac-
tice attorney in Beaufort asked his new boss to
send him an email inviting Matt and Margaret to
11

dinner. He accepted the fake invitation and sent

Margaret a screen shot so she realized they were
committed.
That way I knew I could get her dressed up,
Matt said.
Family members waited at a restaurant on the
Beaufort waterfront. A photographer hid.
Then he convinced Margaret to stroll down the
waterfront with him. When he reached the
 pre-arranged place, he dropped to one knee.
I was in total shock, Margaret said. I
thought it was a totally normal evening. I was
looking forward to having dinner with Matts
boss.
In fact, after the proposal, she wondered:
Were they still meeting Matts boss? And she
was surprised again when their families
greeted them outside the restaurant.
m flowers in their bouquets.
T
hey got married 11 months after the
proposal, on Feb. 18, 2017. With Matt
and Margaret living in Beaufort jug-
12
gling demanding careers, and the wedding in
Columbia, they had to have help. They found
that with Margarets mom, Donna Strom, a
family court judge and mediator in Columbia;
Margarets sister and maid of honor Caroline;
and wedding planner Meagan Warren of
Meagan Warren Weddings.
She was fabulous, Donna said of Warren.
Margaret concurred. The wedding would
not have happened without her, she said.
Margaret had always wanted a formal wed-
ding, her mother said. So that is what she
and Matt had a formal, elegant fairy tale
wedding.
Matt and his 10 groomsmen wore mid-
night blue tuxedos that perfect complement-
ed the 10 bridesmaids gray Jenny Yoo dress-
es and the red, pink raspberry and white
Maid of honor Caroline selected the dress-
es color and style. Bridesmaid Meg
Thompson, Margarets lifelong best friend
and matron of honor, hosted Margaret,
Donna, Caroline, and fellow bridesmaid
Kristen Coble at her home in Atlanta to shop
for Margarets dress.
They went to three different shops, and
found the perfect dress at the final stop, The
White Magnolia.
It was a style she had not envisioned for
herself, Donna said. But as soon as Margaret
stepped out wearing the dress, Margaret and
her mom both knew that was the one.
It was a fitted lace dress with a rhinestone
illusion neckline perfect for an elegant
fairy tale wedding.
It was important to Margaret to use ven-
dors familiar with her family when possible.
Gordon Humphries, who photographed the
wedding, has taken pictures of Margaret and
Caroline from the time I was a baby,
Margaret said. We have pictures of me that
Gordon took all over the house.
It was important to me that we had peo-
ple we knew be part of the wedding.
Chad Ridenour was the florist for the wed-
ding. Ridenour provided flowers for the
Stroms when he owned Rosewood Florist,
and even though the business is no longer
there, she still hired him for the wedding.
Gualberto Nick Nicolau, of Nicks Tailoring,
took care of the alterations to Margarets dress.
I have gone to him for years and know what
amazing work he does, she said. I was told The rehearsal dinner was held at the Carolines hair, and Keri Bailes fixed the
that I would have to go to Atlanta, Charlotte, or Palmetto Club. other bridesmaids hair. Pout did the girls
even New York for alterations because of the After the dinner for the wedding party and makeup.
intricate beading on the top of the dress. I family, a cocktail party included more out-of- Margaret had always dreamed of getting
wanted the top to be basically completely town guests. ready for her wedding at her mothers home.
redone from the original style. I had complete The groomsman cake was decorated with Knowing that, Donna had a big project.
trust in Nick, and he was able to redesign the a conglomeration of Matts favorite things. It Donnas house was severely damaged in
top exactly as I envisioned. had a representation of his and Margarets the October 2015 flood. The lower level of her
m two dogs, the Gamecocks, the Dreher High home had not been restored, but once

A
School Blue Devils (Matts alma mater, where Margaret and Matt got engaged, she knew
couple of weeks before the wedding,
he played football and baseball), the Carolina she needed to complete the renovations.
Margaret traveled to Columbia to
Panthers, the Atlanta Braves, a golf bag, clay The house was fully restored two days
have her bridal portrait taken. She
pigeons, a bucket of beer, and a bacon, egg before the wedding, Donna said. It was nip-
had planned to borrow a veil, but that didnt
13

and cheese biscuit. and-tuck, but it was done.

work out.
All of Matts favorite things, Margaret said. The day began with the champagne
So with the help of Margarets godmother
m brunch hosted by Donnas longtime friends

T
and Donnas longtime best friend, Holly
Dyar, they took the cathedral veil from he morning of the wedding, Margaret from their days at Salem College. That
Donnas dress and the lacy veil from Matts and her bridesmaids gathered at included a champagne bar and Moravian
mothers veil and combined them into one Donnas home for a bit of pampering, sugar cake, a staple in Winston-Salem, N.C.,
that worked perfectly with Margarets dress. and a bridesmaids luncheon hosted by where Salem is located.
I wanted to entwine our families as much Donnas college friends. We had a delightful day, Donna said.
as possible, Margaret said. Joye Fowler styled Margarets, Donnas and Southern Valet picked up the female por-
 tion of the wedding party and chauf-
feured them to Eastminster for the 5
p.m. ceremony.
Many of the photos were taken
before the wedding but only the
ones without both Matt and
Margaret in them. Margaret did not
want Matt to see her before she
walked down the aisle.
She is very traditional, Donna
said.
Margaret did do a first look
photo with her father, local lawyer
and former South Carolina U.S.
Attorney Pete Strom Jr.
The wedding went off with just the
smallest glitch, and even that gave
the family a unique wedding story.
Margaret had wanted peonies in
her bouquet. With the February
wedding, the flowers had to be
ordered from Israel and, of course,
they needed to arrive as close to the
wedding day as possible.
They were to be flown into
Charleston. Unfortunately, they
were due to arrive there the same
day President Donald Trump visit-
ed, and the presidential visit caused
some air traffic issues that caused
the peonies not to arrive.
They probably sat wilting on the
tarmac somewhere, Donna said.
Otherwise, the wedding was flaw-
less. Alison McGowan was the direc-
tor and Kathleen Muthig the assis-
tant director. Josh Evanovich played
the organ, Jody McArthur the bag-
pipes and Eastminster pastor Mark
Durrett officiated.
It was a very traditional
Presbyterian wedding, Donna said.
The minister had gone through pre-
marriage counseling with Margaret
and Matt, so it was personal.
Even Hayes Williams, Matts neph-
ew and the youngest member of the
wedding party at just over 12 months
old, performed his duties of ring bear-
er flawlessly particularly impressive
since he only learned to walk a couple
of months before the wedding.
14

Matt surprised his mother,

Stephanie Williams, by escorting her
down the aisle. When she got to her
seat she found an embroidered hand-
kerchief Margaret had left for her.
Margaret also left one for her mom.
Matt and Margaret included some
special women in their lives by giving
them mentions in the program: Matts
aunt Dottie DuBose-Blum, and tried to talk to everybody but felt The reception was a blast, Matt were driven to the Hilton hotel in
Tina Williams and Levet Allen, like I was floating through it. said. It was the best part other a red vintage Cadillac provided
were honorary special guests. While the decorations at the than marrying the love of my life. by Ann Lyons.
church were intentionally mini- Even months later, friends They honeymooned in Italy for
m
W
mal to highlight the beauty of come up to them and tell them 10 days, visiting Rome and the
hen Margaret and Matt Eastminsters sanctuary, the how much fun they had at the Amalfi Coast. Matt set the stage for
arrived at Forest Lake Forest Lake Club reception room reception. the honeymoon on their wedding
Club for the reception, was decorated to enchant. The five-tier cake by Bonnie night, in a hotel room just a few
they were escorted to a private Ambient Media set the mood with Brunt sat in the foyer, and Forest miles away from where they met.
area with a buffet set up for them elegant lighting; Party Reflections Lake Club catered an elegant affair He had rose petals scattered
for a few minutes of solitude. provided furniture and bars and with stations offering delectables in the room, and in the shape of a
The reception, Donna said, with Ridenours flowers. such as roast beef, crab cakes, oys- W on the bed, Margaret said.
was a great party. It also was a I Love This Band! helped pro- ters and shrimp. At the end of the And there were chocolate-
bit of a blur. vide the fun. Matt and Margaret reception, guests were offered covered strawberries.
Margaret wanted a fairy tale selected You Are The Best hamburger sliders and fries. And while they werent require-
setting, and it was beautiful, Thing, by Ray LaMontagne for After leaving in a flurry of ments, those touches definitely
Donna said. It was surreal. I their first dance. sparklers, Matt and Margaret made his bride happy.
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tra
 Mary Kathryn
Partners in adventure
By Lezlie Patterson
M
Special to Carolina Bride
ary Kathryn Taylor was
knocked off her feet when
David Olsen proposed.
Literally, and quite dra-
matically.
Mary Kathryn and David met when they
both worked at a Wyoming ranch one sum-
mer, and a mutual enjoyment of the outdoors
helped nurture their relationship.
&David
So it wasnt too surprising that David pro-
posed to Mary Kathryn while they were rock
climbing in the Grand Teton National Park.
I kind of knew something was up, Mary
Kathryn recalls. My parents were being
weird. They cant keep secrets.
But she didnt know she would accept a wed-
ding proposal while ascending one of the most
challenging climbs either had attempted.
He went first and belayed me from the
top, Mary Kathryn said. When he got to the
top, he asked me to send him his backpack.
Mary Kathryn thought it was a bit strange,
especially when whatever he was doing with
the backpack seemed to take a long time. But
eventually, David signaled for Mary Kathryn
to ascend.
As she did, David told her to look up.
After a bit of are-you-crazy reluctance,
Mary Kathryn looked up and saw colorful
flowers stuck in a crack in the rocks.
Mary Kathryn thought it was sweet but, I
Photos by Ashley Seawell,
Ashley Seawell Photography
www.ashleyseawellphotography.com
 was holding on for dear life.
Then David told her to look again, and
she saw a ring clipped on a carabiner
hanging from a rock.
Hanging. From. A. Rock.
I grabbed it and clipped it to my har-
ness, Mary Kathryn said.
Then she fell, and was hanging upside
for a few minutes until she righted her-
self, and said yes.
David thought about proposing on the
summit, but decided do it on a less pop-
ular route.
I wanted to do something special,
and what better way to propose than in
our favorite national park doing our
favorite activity, David said.
But that day, the proposal trumped
the climb.
We never made it to the top that day,
Mary Kathryn said. We rappelled down
and called our parents and friends.
They sent out a photo, wearing their
helmets and gear and said climbing
partners forever.
That was in June 2016 and on April 15,
2017, they married at The Millstone at
Adams Pond in Columbia.
Their story actually began five years
earlier, when Mary Kathryn drove 2,000
miles west from her Columbia home in
search of adventure.
After graduating from the College of
Charleston in 2011, Mary Kathryn and
her dear friend and eventual maid of
honor Sallie Marchant decided to drive
to Wyoming to work on a ranch in Grand
Teton National Park.
I had every intention of going out
west for the summer and coming back
to MUSC for a nursing program, Mary
Kathryn said.
One of the first people she met was
David, who was also working there.
m
T
hey hit it off right away, but Mary
Kathryn was reluctant to start a
relationship. I wanted to have an
adventure, she said.
But a few weeks later, they were
inseparable and they knew they would
be spending the winter in Wyoming as
20

well. And a lifelong adventure with the

love of her life had begun.
Marchant realized her friend was
smitten, and knew she and David would
end up together soon after they met.
Shes been one of my best friends
since preschool almost, so I could tell
that she cared way more about him than
any other guy shed ever known,
Marchant said. chose Columbia because it seemed to be the
The summer after they met, David and most practical, and they knew an outdoor
Mary Kathryn worked at a ski resort, but wedding in April should have good weather.
Mary Kathryn found herself with a lot of free And of course they wanted an outdoor
time after surgery for a torn ACL and wedding.
Meniscus. During that time, she rediscov- The Millstone at Adams Pond provided a
ered a passion for sewing and changed career perfect setting, with an old home sitting on a
direction. She now works in the fashion pond with a working mill and water flowing.
industry. Mary Kathryn and David are both lovers
I didnt really make a decision, Mary of being outside and exploring beautiful loca-
Kathryn said. It just happened. tions, so an outdoor wedding with a woodsy
m backdrop of trees covered with Spanish moss

A
fter spending another summer on the overhanging a pond was fitting, Marchant
Wyoming ranch, David went to nurs- said. And although theyve both lived in
ing school in Minnesota and Mary Jackson for a few years, Mary Kathryn is true
Kathryn returned to Columbia for six to her Southern roots so saying I do in her
months. Mary Kathryn joined him in hometown surrounded by family and friends
Minnesota for the next year, and then both seemed right.
21

moved back to Jackson. David returned Mary Kathryn wasnt worried about being
home for the final part of his school tenure 2,000 miles away from her wedding site.
then joined Mary Kathryn in Wyoming. I knew my mother would be able to han-
I knew MK was the one after she continu- dle anything you threw at her, Mary Kathryn
ously supported me through going back to said.
school, made it through a brief period of long With David and Mary Kathryn living in Indeed, she handled it. But it wasnt easy.
distance, and sharing many hobbies and Wyoming, Davids family in Minnesota and The planning was the most stressful thing
interests together, said David, now an oper- Mary Kathryns in Columbia, they had to I have ever done, said her mom, Kathy
ating room nurse. Shes also a total babe! decide where to have the wedding. They Stewart. She flew home mid-February for a
 week and during that week we had to
have her dress fitted (we only had one
time for that), finalize and meet with
the caterer, photographer, makeup and
hair folks as well as shop for all of the
clothes she would have to wear for the
wedding week. We had to find a ceremo-
ny musician and she decided on all of
the songs. We picked out and ordered all
of the bridesmaids and groomsmen
things and what they were to wear and
went all over Columbia finalizing hotels,
valets, DJ, designing the programs,
ordering notes, etc., etc., etc.
But it all fell into place, and my sweet
girl had the most beautiful wedding.
Mary Kathryn stayed calm through it
all.
Mary Kathryn goes with the flow,
and if a hiccup occurred, she just said
oh well, and we moved on, Stewart
said. That pretty much sums up her
personality!
m
M
ary Kathryn and Davids friends
from Wyoming were excited
about being able to explore
Congaree National Park and to escape
the snow for some Southern spring
weather.
The best part of our wedding was
having our best friends and family
members there to celebrate, David said.
It didnt hurt that it was 80 and sunny
every day we were there.
Mary Kathryn and David wanted a
very casual wedding. They set that tone
with a Wyoming-style barbecue hoe-
down rehearsal dinner at 701 Whaley.
They had gingham tablecloths, climbing
rope decorations and a mechanical bull
for entertainment.
The morning of the wedding, Mary
Kathryn and her bridesmaids went to
Pout to get their hair styled and makeup
done while many out-town visitors went
hiking at Congaree National Park or vis-
ited Soda City Farmers Market down-
town.
Mary Kathryn wanted to use friends
as vendors when possible. Julianne
Sojourner, who attended Columbia
22

College with her mother, did the flow-

ers. Family friend Ashley Seawell was
the photographer. Seawells mother
went to medical school with Mary
Kathryns father, Dr. Caughman Taylor,
chief medical officer at Palmetto Health
Childrens Hospital.
Seawell took all the group shots
before the 6 p.m. ceremony.
 I wanted it out of the way and done so we
could go straight to the reception, Mary
Kathryn said.
She did a first look photo with David,
where she stood behind him and tapped him
on the shoulder.
m let her seven bridesmaids select their own
E
dgewire String Trio provided music for
the ceremony. Zach Braddock, who
met David and Mary Kathryn that first
summer at the Wyoming ranch, officiated
the wedding.
He had us write letters about why we
wanted to be with each other, and he read
some of what we wrote at the wedding, Mary
Kathryn said. That made it personal and
fun.
The ceremony was one of Mary Kathryns
mothers favorite parts of the wedding week-
end.
The actual ceremony was the sweetest
and most tender, Stewart said. Their friend
Zach performed the ceremony, which
reflected MK and David to a T. He used anal-
ogies of their love of rock climbing and how had
each part represents a part in marriage as
well.
It was so touching to see David cry and
MK wipe his tears during the ceremony.
Mary Kathryn bought her dress at Emma
and Grace Bridal Studio in Denver, and she
dresses, only specifying that they be short
and white.
The seven groomsmen wore khaki pants
and navy jackets with matching steel blue
ties.
Everything about the entire wedding
reflected both their personalities, Stewart
says. It was very casual and natural. The
minute she tried the wedding dress on in
Denver, it set the tone. From using climbing
ropes as dcor to having her grandfathers
pin on her bouquet, she made every decision
to reflect her personality.
m and groom!
T
he reception, which was catered by
Southern Way Catering, was also at
The Millstone at Adams Pond. They
a mashed potato bar, crab dip, chicken
paninis, roasted beef tenderloin and brus-
chetta.
They used the rope from the proposal
climb in wedding decor. Guests signed a pair
of skis instead of a book, and parts of tree
trunks were gave the reception an outdoorsy,
rustic feel. PartyTime DJs provided the
music for the reception, with a lot of festive
dancing.
David and Mary Kathryn elected to have
cupcakes by Cupcake Down South rather
than a cake.
We didnt want a big cake, Mary Kathryn
said.
The goal was to have fun so it was a per-
fect reception.
23
The wedding was a perfect reflection of
Mary Kathryn and David, Marchant said.
The wedding was beautiful, fun, and easy-
going, Marchant said. Just like the bride
David and Mary Kathryn left beneath a
canopy of sparklers. They returned to
Wyoming after the wedding, and they plan a
20-day European honeymoon in October.
 An estate that dates back to
the 1700s,The Millstone at
Adams Pond provides an
enchanting setting for elegant
Southern garden weddings,
receptions, casual barbeques,
oyster roasts and other
special occasions.

5301 BLUFF RD, COLUMBIA, SC 803.783.5732

M I L L S TO N E ATA DA M S P O N D. C O M

DELIGHTFUL FOOD
IS ONLY A PART
A GORGEOUS HISTORIC OF THE OVERALL
BUILDING WITH A SPACIOUS EXPERIENCE WE
INTERIOR LOCATED IN THE PROVIDE
HEART OF COLUMBIAS VISTA
Perfect for intimate
wedding receptions,
private parties &
rehearsal dinners

705 B. Gervais Street

803.250.9995
Complimentary valet parking
 Alive with love
and personality

&Nick
Callie

Shoots The World, Destination Wedding Photography

 { Hilton Head Island Bluffton Beaufort South Carolina }
C
allie Lamb and Nick Brantley are huge
Carolina Panthers fans. So much so
that the couple made the trip last Feb-
ruary to California to watch their team in
the Super Bowl. And while the Panthers fell
to the Denver Broncos, the couple brought
home a win of their own.
I had no clue he was going to propose
there in the hotel room, said Callie. He
had told my parents, his parents, my
sister. Everyone knew but me.
One thing Callie did know, was that the
first thing on her wedding to-do list was to
hire a planner.
Im so detailed-oriented that if I was doing
it myself, I would drive myself crazy, she said.
Callie worked with Stephanie Douglas
from Verge Events in Asheville, N.C., to put
together a vibrant, memorable April wedding
that captured their fun-loving personality.
I love bright, bold colors, lots of tex-
tures and patterns, Callie said.
What took shape was a celebration bursting
with aqua and coral, sea glass and driftwood,
and layers of color, texture and pattern (think
bohemian style meets watercolor painting).
Tables were set with clear chairs and
three different linens. Some had a rippling
silver and white tablecloth topped with
bright color paisley runners. Others had an
aqua linen with a white dot strand pattern.
Centerpieces included groupings of aqua
vases with bright flowers that mirrored the
bridal bouquets stargazer lilies, pink and
By Cate Fitzpatrick Nick, a foodie, wanted the evening's menu
cfitzpatrick@islandpacket.com to be delicious and memorable. For dinner,
guests helped themselves to any of the seven
serving stations that were open all night
and offered entrees such as carved pork
loin, Adobo grilled chicken, red snapper,
filet mignon, baked ziti, and eggplant and
chicken Parmesan. When guests worked up
an appetite from dancing, the couple served
a late-night menu of braised short rib mac
and cheese and a variety of flatbreads.
Callie and Nick exchanged vows outdoors
on the lawn of the middle peninsula at The
Sonesta Resort on Hilton Head Island under
an arch made of beach glass. A reception fol-
lowed at the resort's Beach Pavilion.
We liked how the venue was so open that
we could really make it our own, Callie
said. I like so many bright colors that the
orange tulips, yellow button mums, red and outdoor scenery was the perfect backdrop.
orange gerbera daisies, and vibrant pink hy- Instead of flower girls, each of their
drangeas. Overhead hung a chandelier made grandmothers led the way, dropping petals
of sea glass, driftwood and live flowers. down an aisle studded with bright flowers.
Guests signed sea glass and wrote messag- Callie wore a Haley Paige floor-sweeping
es in a bottle for the couple to read on their chiffon dress with a delicately sheer bodice
one-year, five-year, and 10-year anniversary. embellished with beads, sequins and crys-
Picking up the watercolor theme from their tals, a T-strap, and plunging neckline.
invitations, Callie and Nick had an artist paint Bridesmaids wore long coral dresses, while
welcome signs and portraits of their three the groomsmen wore khakis, white shirts,
French bulldogs. Even their four-tier cake custom Sperry shoes, and colorful Vineyard
looked like it was swept with a paint brush Vine ties that matched their personalities.
and offered layers of banana foster, white Nick and I have such distinct personalities
with lemon raspberry filling, chocolate with and I wanted the wedding to have a memorable
chocolate chips, and a dulce de leche. feel. It was an amazing day, Callie said.
27
 { Hilton Head Island Bluffton Beaufort South Carolina }
Westin unveils stunning new venue
By Cate Fitzpatrick
cfitzpatrick@islandpacket.com
heres a new beachfront wed-
ding venue in town, and it is
something out of a Lowcountry
fairy tale.
There really isnt anything quite
like this in the Lowcountry, said Gail
Wargo, director of sales and mar-
keting for The Westin Hilton Head
Island Resort & Spa.
The Grand Ocean Terrace, a
5,000-square-foot climate-controlled
28
special event space, caps off the re-
sorts $40 million renovation project
that spanned nearly five years.
The new venue is stunning. It took
two years to plan and is the final
piece of the puzzle, Wargo said.
Built nearly eight feet above beach
level, the Grand Ocean Terrace offers
The bar area features custom oyster shell light
fixtures.
unobstructed Atlantic views through
floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
that open to a full-length balcony.
The private wrap-around porch
features an adjacent stone patio with
lounge area and fireplace, and beach
access is mere steps away.
Photos courtesy of The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa
The venues coastal chic styling
reflects the natural colors and textures
of the Lowcountry, including tabby
walls, oyster shell chandeliers, sconces
that mirror the dune grass, and rustic
trusses that run the length of the space.
Most of the materials are sourced
locally and we worked with local arti-
sans and designers to bring the space
together, Wargo said. Its so expertly
styled that it doesnt require many
decorations.
The Grand Ocean Terrace can hold
up to 220 guests and opened for its
first wedding Memorial Day week-
end.
With three pools, five venues, a full-
service spa, and more than 400 guest
rooms and suites, the resorts all-
inclusiveness makes it very attractive
for destination weddings, Wargo said.
{ Hilton Head Island Bluffton Beaufort South Carolina }
 &Marquel
Corey

Heather Cahoon Photography

 { Hilton Head Island Bluffton Beaufort South Carolina }
Forever and always
C
orey Fedor and Marquel Sims were
high school sweethearts whose
relationship is like a story line from
Friday Night Lights.
The two were one grade apart at Hilton
Head Island High School and complete
opposites. Marquel the quiet freshman foot-
ball player, Corey the outgoing sophomore
cheerleader.
He was friends with a girl I cheered with. I
remember telling her that he wasnt my type,
Corey said, thinking back to 2004 when she
met her now-husband. Well, 13 years later I
guess he turned out to be my type.
After high school, Corey moved to Spar-
tanburg to attend nursing school. In 2012,
Marquel followed, and three years later, on
Valentines Day, he proposed.
I guess I had it in the back of my mind
that he was the one I would be with, Corey
said. It was just us in our house. I was preg-
nant and feeling very sick. I cant remember
what he said because I broke out crying. I
had waited for this day for so long.
Three months later, they welcomed their
daughter, Audrey. As new parents, priorities
shifted and wedding planning was pushed
to the back burner. It would be a year before
Corey and Marquel would revisit the thought
and start the planning process.
I knew I wanted to get married back
home (on Hilton Head) either at the beach
or on the beach. That had always been my
dream, she said.
By Cate Fitzpatrick
cfitzpatrick@islandpacket.com
The couple chose to have their April 8
celebration outdoors on the grassy lawn
overlooking the ocean at The Hilton Head
Marriott Resort & Spa. And with the help
of Coreys mom and sister planned a very
pink, very girly wedding for 50 people.
Im a flower girl. I wanted a good amount
of flowers everywhere, Corey said.
Coreys bouquet was packed with roses
and peonies in varying shades of pink and
peach, and skirted in greenery. Similar lush
groupings were attached to the wedding
arbor, which was draped with white linen.
Shades of blush and gold were woven
throughout the reception. On the tables,
wooden lanterns were surrounded with
soft pink rose petals and gold votive candle
holders, while slender gold vases held
bunches of white babys breath.
Instead of a formal wedding party, Corey
and Marquel shared their nuptials and a
memorable family dance (Isn't She Lovely
by Stevie Wonder) with their daughter.
Hand-painted signs quoting 1 Corinthians
lined the aisle as Corey made her entrance.
She wore a long, silky gown with a straight
silhouette, lace sleeves and a lace bodice.
Her daughter also wore a little white dress
with puffy tutu and lace sleeves.
Holding tight to tradition, Corey kept
both their dresses a secret from Marquel
and forewent the "first look" photo session
with long-time friend and photographer
Heather Cahoon.
I'm very glad we skipped it because
it was so worth it to me to have our first
look walking down the aisle, Corey said.
While we were saying our vows, Marquel
whispered to me, You look beautiful, and
that made it all worth it.
31
For dinner, guests enjoyed an open
bar and an I Do barbecue buffet with
macaroni and cheese, corn on the cob, and
coleslaw. Flowers and greenery adorned
the two-tier cake which was iced in white
frosting with fresh strawberries inside. As
the sun set, tall heaters were brought out
to take the chill out of the evening as guests
danced into the night. At the end of the eve-
ning, the newlyweds exited under a shower
of sparklers.
 { Hilton Head Island Bluffton Beaufort South Carolina }
Wedding Belles
Celebrity hairstylist Dennis Stokely shares his favorite bridal looks
By Dennis Stokely
Special to Carolina Bride
F
rom the first look
to the last dance,
hairstyles with
great texture and structure
have the staying power to look
polished and sophisticated
for your entire wedding.
I considerbrides to be the
celebrities of the South, and
32
I've always said that walking
down the aisle to get married
is like walking the red carpet
in Hollywood.
After years of creating
hundreds of hairstyles for
brides in New York and
Los Angles, returning to
my Southern roots and
TREND
working with wedding belles
throughout the Lowcountry
is a dream come true.
From the mountains of
the upstate to the laid-back
sophistication and natural
beauty of the Lowcountry,
the Carolina bride has
a bounty of choices for
what might be the most
spectacular place in the
world to get married.
Whether it is a casual
beach ceremony, a posh
affair in a grand ballroom,
or an intimate gathering
in a centuries-old chapel, a
hairstyle that can withstand
the elements is the secret
to show-stopping photos.
Christine's look, shown
ALERT All photos courtesy of Dennis Stokely
above, is a half up, half down
style with soft romantic
waves and it is one of the
most requested hairstyles
year after year.
Similar to building a lasting
marriage, the key to creating
a successful hairstyle begins
with a strong foundation.
Prepping your hair with
a flawless blowout set with
large, Velcro rollers will
create a smooth texture and
give you the volume needed
to create any look that will
hold up and look great. Dennis Stokely is a top celebrity hair-
I always love giving my two stylist and the Artistic Director at the
Salon Montage in Palmetto Bluff.
cents about all-things-hair, His work has appeared on "American
especially wedding hair. Idol," and on red carpets at the Oscars,
Here are four favorite looks I Emmys, Grammys and Golden Globes.
www.dennisstokely.com
created.
 { Hilton Head Island Bluffton Beaufort South Carolina }
THE TOP KNOT
The top knot is the "it-girl" hairstyle of the moment and
Erin nailed this look. She had a beach wedding on Hil-
ton Head and her reception was indoors and outdoors.
She wanted a hairstyle that would survive the elements
and look amazing in pictures. I prepped her hair with a
tight ponytail on the top of her head, then took sections
of her hair and pinned them into a beautiful shape. I
used a serum around her face and neck for sleek tex-
ture, and a firm-hold hairspray to lock in the bun.
LOW MESSY BUN
The low messy bun is one of my all-time favorite wed-
ding day hairstyles. Suzanne requested the look for her
Savannah wedding, but her hair was only chin length.
We were able to achieve her desired look with the
help of clip-in extensions. Then, I teased the top of her
natural hair and brushed it down into the ponytail and
wrapped it into a messy bun. Her husband loved it.
MODERN BOUFFANT
Carrie requested a modern bouffant with cascad-
ing curls. I created lots of volume in the crown
by teasing the entire top section of her hair. I
smoothed the hair back off of her face and pinned
it into place. Using a medium-sized curling iron, I
set the bottom sections of her hair in lots of tight
curls. I fingered the curls into a loose texture,
added a little medium-hold hairspray and finished
with a misting of spray polish.
SIDE-SWEPT PONYTAIL
33
For her Hilton Head wedding, Kelly wanted something
that was carefree and unique, and not another prom
hairstyle. I decided to braid the hair across the back
and sweep it across one shoulder. I secured the braid
with half of the hair in her ponytail, leaving a lot of hair
to fall to one side. For something different, I placed the
gorgeous headband in the part of her hair.
 { Hilton Head Island Bluffton Beaufort South Carolina }

Lowcountry Reception Venues Georgia Furniture

Advanced Sail Catamaran
www.hiltonheadislandsailing.com
Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
Sea Pines Country Club
www.seapinescountryclub.com
Sequins Ballroom
Your first
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Beach House Hilton Head
www.beachhousehhi.com
Belfair Plantation
SERG
www.serggroup.com
Shipyard Golf Club
treasures for a

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Berkeley Hall
www.shipyardgolfclub.com
Shipyard Plantation Beach Club lifetime.
www.berkeleyhallclub.com www.shipyardhhi.com
Bluffton Oyster Factory Park Sonesta Resort
www.townofbluffton.sc.gov www.sonesta.com/hiltonheadisland
Callawassie Island South Carolina Yacht Club
www.callawassieisland.com www.scyachtclub.com
Celebrations Catering & Events The Beaufort Inn
www.wecelebrateyou.com www.beaufortinn.com
Colleton River Plantation Club Montage Palmetto Bluff
www.colletonriverclub.com www.montagehotels.com/palmettobluff
Country Club of Hilton Head The Sea Pines Resort
www.hiltonheadclub.com www.seapines.com Quality Name Brand Furniture
Dataw Island Club The Westin Hilton Head Island Accessories - Rugs
www.datawcatering.com Resort & Spa www.westinhiltonheadis- Re-Upholstery - Window Treatments
Elegant Events Hall land.com Wallpaper
www.eleganteventshall.com Vagabond Cruise Complete Interior Design Service
Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort www.vagabondcruise.com
www.frippislandresort.com Wexford Plantation Club Everyday Discounts Quality Furniture
Golf Club at Indigo Run www.wexfordplantation.com Excellent Service
www.thegolfclub-indigorun.com Windows on the Waterway 2934 Bee Rd. Savannah, GA 31404 912-354-9742 gafurn.com
Hampton Hall Club www.wecelebrateyou.com Mon-Fri 10am to 6pm Sat 10am to 5pm Closed Sun
www.hamptonhallsc.com
Hampton Lake
www.hamptonlake.com
Harbour Town Yacht Club M A R R I O T T R E S O R T A N D S PA , H I LT O N H E A D
www.harbourtownyachtclub.com
Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park Everlasting Moments.
www.cityofbeaufort.org
Hilton Head Beach & Tennis Resort Unforgettable Memories, for a Lifetime.
www.hhibeachandtennis.com
Hilton Head Marriott Resort and Spa
www.marriott.com/hhhgr
Honey Horn Plantation
www.coastaldiscovery.org
Hunting Island State Park
www.huntingisland.com
Oaks Plantation
www.theoaksplantationsc.com
Old Sheldon Church Ruins
www.theoaksplantationsc.com
Oldfield Plantation
www.oldfield1732.com
Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort
www.omnihotels.com/hotels/hilton-head
Oscar Frazier Park
34

www.townofbluffton.sc.gov
Oyster Reef Golf Club
www.oysterreefgolfclub.com
Palmetto Dunes Resort
www.palmettodunes.com
Palmetto Hall Plantation
www.palmettohallgolf.com
Port Royal Golf Club PL E A S E C O N T AC T : DA W N FA R R E L L
www.portroyalgolfclub.com DA W N . FA R R E L L @ M A R R I O T T SA L E S . C O M
Rose Hill Mansion 8 43-686-8 470
www.rosehillmansion.com
{ Hilton Head Island Bluffton Beaufort South Carolina }

35
 Photos by Katie Hart and Dave Gilbert,
Palmetto Duo
www.palmettoduo.com

Corina Ellison and David Loan have known each other since 2006. They went to the same high
MARRIED IN THE MIDLANDS

&
school and had many of the same friends. When they met during college, David was smitten, but
Corina wasnt interested. Definitely got friend-zoned, says David, an operations manager. He
Corina David proposed a decade after that first meeting, and they married April 8, 2017, at Capital City Club in
Columbia. Corina, a special education teacher, says her best wedding advice is to remember that
the marriage is the part that lasts. They live in Northeast Columbia. Answers have been edited.

Corina, David had a crush on When did you know your C: I knew something was up planning, not wedding planning.
you long before you were ready spouse was the one? because he seemed nervous and D: When I first saw Corina coming
to date him. What changed? D: I never really had that aha kept asking me how he looked. down the aisle with her father, all
C: I guess I wasnt interested be- moment; I just sort of always D: We went in through the garage done up with tears of happiness
cause I was afraid that if it didnt knew how I felt toward her. so she wouldnt see the backyard. running down her cheeks and
work out, Id lose a good friend. Tell me about the proposal. I got two beers out the fridge and smiling ear to ear. I was shaking
In 2014, I experienced the death C: It was a wet, rainy Monday. told her we needed to talk outside. with some tears to see the woman
of my grandmother, and David Before I got home from work, he C: I thought, Oh no, he has some I had loved for so long to be com-
experienced the death of his best called asking how far away I was. kind of bad news to tell me. ing toward me to be my wife.
friend, Patrick Allen which was He seemed anxious, but I brushed We got outside, and I saw white Corina wore Davids mothers
also hard for me because Patrick it off because I knew he wanted lights and candles everywhere. veil. Whose idea was that?
and I grew up together. David to have dinner. We were going by D: When we got to the gazebo, I C: Davids mother considered
and I grew closer, and in 2015, we his moms house before dinner started playing Trains Marry Me me her daughter long before we
started dating. Ive watched David because shed had knee surgery. and was on my knee as she turned said I do. Not long after we got
grow into a wonderful man. around. With ring in hand, I asked
36

It was raining on and off, and he engaged, she pulled out a box
David, at what point did you kept changing his mind about Corina to marry me. She was and said, You can have my old
realize you had a shot? stopping before dinner or after. already crying and told me yes. dress; maybe you could wear it!
D: Im not going to lie; it was evi- D: The weather was not my best C: We ended up having spaghetti I was honored. I decided that the
dent to everyone that I had a thing friend that day. I had started setting at his moms house instead of veil was my favorite, so I picked
for Corina. We shared a special up with white lights around the going out. It was the most spe- my dress to go with it. I wore the
connection when a mutual friend porch, fence, and gazebo in my cial night of my life! veil to symbolize the love Davids
passed. She was there for me and moms backyard with teacup can- What was your favorite part of parents had for one another and
made sure I was handling it well, dles everywhere. I had a friend light the wedding day? how much Davids mother means
and I knew that this was going to the candles and stay on standby as C: Walking down the aisle toward to me and I cant wait to pass it
grow into a relationship. the weather kept changing. him was a culmination of marriage down to my daughter one day!
BRIDES ATTIRE Bride Beautiful (Atlanta) GROOMS ATTIRE Mens Wearhouse
WEDDING PARTY ATTIRE Davids Bridal CAKE Silver Spoon
CATERER Capital City Club DJ Kevin Snow, Events by Snow
FLORIST Kroger Florists HAIR John T. Elliot Professional Hair Salon
HONEYMOON Cancun, Mexico HOTEL BLOCK Marriott Downtown USC
INVITATIONS/PAPER GOODS theamericanwedding.com JEWELRY Blue Nile
MAKEUP Kione Taylor-Williams MUSICIANS Regina Ellerbe, soloist;
Idris Chandler, cellist OFFICIANT Rev. Kevin Roberts, VOW
PHOTOGRAPHY Katie Hart and Dave Gilbert, Palmetto Duo PLANNER
Georgette HartselleREGISTRY Bed, Bath & Beyond; Amazon
REHEARSAL DINNER River Rat Brewery RENTALS Palmetto Party Booths
VENUE Capital City Club
 ADVERTORIAL

More than a couple of reasons

Y
ou and your fianc are the reason for this special
celebration. For a memorable experience that reflects
the day youve anticipated and an event your guests will
never forget, the Orangeburg Country Club is
your ideal choice. Whether you envision an
intimate plated dinner for a few, a lavish party
for many, or something in between, our
experienced on-site planner will be there every
step of the way. Your day is our top priority.
Booking Orangeburg Country Club is open to nonmembers.
We offer indoor ceremonies, as well as the option to wed on
the lawn overlooking the scenic 18th green or beside the
picturesque banks of the Edisto River.

Grand Ballroom Creative menu options

Tourville Room Bridal and groom suites
Covington Room Audiovisual equipment
Green Room Indoor and outdoor options

The reasons to choose Orangeburg Country Club are indeed

abundant. Visit www.orangeburgcc.com to learn more or call
803-534-5988 and speak to our private event coordinator to set
up a personal tour. Its time to start envisioning your magical day.
LIFES TREASURES PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC

Capital City Club

ADVERTORIAL

Your Perfect Wedding in the Clouds
1201 Main St., Suite 2500 | 803-256-2000
capitalcolumbia.com | mikaela.freeman@clubcorp.com
O
n the top floor of the tallest building in
South Carolina, we have a saying: The
only thing we overlook is the view.
The Capital City Club is the peak of
elegance and sophistication with stunning
views.Our Governors Ballroom has a
panoramic view of Columbia, the Congaree
River, and the State House. We pride ourselves on
personalized service and sophisticated Southern charm.
Our experienced team and delectable menus will give your
guests with an event to remember!
Adding to a long history of beautiful weddings, our new
private events team assisted in the planning and coordination
of over 50 weddings last year alone. We would be honored to
help you bring
your vision of
your perfect
wedding day to
life! We go the
extra mile to
make sure every
detail of your
wedding is
perfectly and
uniquely you.
From
personalized
menus to unique dcor and special requests, we consistently
go above and beyond to make your dream a reality!
Although Capital City Club is Columbias premier private
club, you dont have to be a member to host a private
event. Contact Mikaela Freeman to plan your special day.
 Wedding Album
Ann Li and Rory Bailey were married
Feb. 19, 2017, at the Capital City Club
in Columbia.

Photos by Laura Effinger, Lola Dee Photography

ADVERTORIAL

Buck Ridge Plantation:

N
estled among a picturesque forest
of old-growth pines and
hardwoods, Buck Ridge Plantation

We make weddings memorable

is an oasis of natural beauty and
peaceful tranquility.
For a picture-perfect bridal shower or a
venue for your rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and
reception, Buck Ridge offers several scenic
choices. If your hearts desire is a small, private
occasion celebrated with your family and
closest friends, host the entire weekend at the
intimate Edisto Manor. Buck Ridge can just as
easily host a lavish wedding weekend for large
groups and anything in between.
We can happily create personalized weekend
packages that cater to your guests interests.
Besides the many on-site activities Buck Ridge
offers including fishing, swimming, and sport
shooting, we can also set up golf or tennis
outings at our sister property, the Orangeburg
Country Club.
Buck Ridge can accommodate groups of up
to 400 guests and lodge up to 80. We are
conveniently located between Columbia and
Charleston, near Orangeburg, and have over 15
years of experience in creating memorable
celebrations. For more information, visit
buckridge.com, or give our event planner,
BUCK RIDGE Melissa Clarke, a call at 803-531-8408. Melissa
P L A N TAT I O N
can show you around the property and help
JULIA FAY PHOTOGRAPHY
you every step of the way.
 Photos by Roxanne Still,
Still Co.
still-co.com

Addison Hendrix and Chris Frank met at the University of South Carolina. We started out as
MARRIED IN THE MIDLANDS friends, Addison says. After college, Addison, who is from Lexington, moved with self-described

&Chris
Army brat Chris (who calls Summerville his hometown) to the St. Louis area, where they still live.
Addison They returned to Columbia for their March 18, 2017, wedding at Saxe Gotha Presbyterian Church and
reception at Pine Island Club. Chris, 25, is an electrical engineer with Boeing; Addison, 24, is an office
and project coordinator with the St. Louis Area Business Health Coalition. Answers have been edited.

When did you know your spouse C: Thats when South Carolina
was the one? was recruiting a new head football
A: Honestly, after our first date.
We went to see the midnight
premier of Skyfall, and after the
movie, I told him that I could see
myself loving him. Bold move, but
it didnt scare him away!
C: When Addison moved her
whole life out to St. Louis for me
after spending her whole life in
South Carolina.
Tell me about the proposal.
C: I bought her ring on Labor Day
40
coach, so my mind was in another
world. The moment I got nervous
is when I was about to ask her dad
for her hand in marriage. Asking
any dads permission to marry their
daughter can be awkward, but it
helps to have college basketball on.
A: My parents took us to the Vista
for dinner. The Carolina campus
has changed so much since we
graduated, so my dad drove
through to show us all the new fea-
surprise! What made it even more
special was our best friends were
hiding behind the statue!
C: She had no idea it was coming.
What advice would you give
a bride or groom planning a
wedding?
A: Perfect is boring.
C: Just say yes to the bride.
Makes it so much easier.
Tell me about the Bibles you ex-
changed before the ceremony.
C: It was all Addisons idea. It was
a practical gift that we can use for
read them before the ceremony.
Now, whenever I open my Bible, I
am reminded of that day and the
marriage God blessed us with.
Tell me about your special
reception guest and the rally
towels.
C: Cocky was a surprise from Ad-
disons mom.
A: You know your mom loves you
when she gets her schools rival
mascot to come to your wedding!
We had Gamecock rally towels
printed out for our exit, which

weekend 2015 and started plan- tures. At the Horseshoe, my mom

ning. I called her mom in October
to ask her to help with my plan.
A: Chris proposed the day before
Thanksgiving. Each year we
switch off so its Thanksgiving
with one family and Christmas
with the other. Just so happens
we come visit my family for
Thanksgiving when South Caro-
lina plays Clemson at home.
asked my dad to pull over so we
could get some Christmas card pic-
tures. I thought this was weird, but
I went along with it. At the statue
in the middle, my mom snapped
a photo. Before she could take a
second, Chris said, Wait, I think I
may have something to make this
picture better. That is when he got
down on one knee and asked. Total
a long time.
A: Chris and I didnt care to
exchange fancy gifts but wanted to
exchange something. We believe
that for a marriage to hold true,
God must be the center of the
relationship. We both picked out
the Bible we liked best and got our
names engraved on the front, then
wrote messages to one another and
was to Sandstorm. We wanted
to do something different from
the traditional sparklers or
bubbles.
Newlywed life is...
A: Like a never-ending sleepover
with your best friend.
C: Really not much different
from before. We work really well
together as a couple.
 BRIDE AND BRIDESMAIDS ATTIRE Evelyns Bridal & Formal Wear
GROOM AND GROOMSMENS ATTIRE Mens Wearhouse CAKE
Parkland Cakes CATERING Hudsons Classic Catering DECOR
Alisha Millwood, Amazing Moments Weddings DJ
TJ McKay Entertainment FAVORS/GIFTS Northeast Trophy & Awards,
41

green koozies; Safeguard Solutions, rally towels FLORIST Amazing

Moments Weddings HAIR Process Salon HONEYMOON Antigua
HOTEL BLOCK Wingate by Windham Columbia-Lexington
INVITATIONS/PAPER GOODS Invitation Station, invitations and programs;
Shutterfly, save the date cards JEWELRY Kay Jewelers, wedding
rings MAKEUP Brittany Curtis OFFICIANT Rev. Scott Smoak (brides
cousin) PHOTOGRAPHER Roxanne Still, Still Co. PLANNER
Alisha Millwood, Amazing Moments Weddings
PRESERVATION/ALTERATIONS Evelyns Bridal REGISTRY Bed,
Bath & Beyond; Belk RENTALS Amazing Moment Weddings
TRANSPORTATION Southern Valet VENUE, CEREMONY Saxe Gotha
Presbyterian Church VENUE, RECEPTION Pine Island Club
Wedding Album

300 Spring Valley Rd., Columbia, SC 29223

(803) 788-3080 www.springvalleycc.com
42

Katie Jumper and David Harley were

married May 13, 2017, at Jacksons
Landing in Batesburg.
Photos by Sarah DAttoma
DAttoma Studios Photography, dattomastudios.com
Your event,
ourbackdrop
Ceremonies
Receptions
Corporate Events
Catering
Lodging

231 Gundog Trail

Neeses, SC 29107
Phone: (803) 531-8408
www.buckridge.com
Find us on Facebook.
43
 Photos by Julia Murray,
Julia Fay Photography
juliafayphotography.com

Caroline Arnette and TJ Asbill were in the wedding of a mutual family friend as young children and
MARRIED IN THE MIDLANDS attended the same high school. But they cite a lake day much later as the beginning of their story;

&TJ
Carolines brother and TJs college roommate, Al, invited both. My first impression was, Wow, shes
Caroline extremely out of my league, TJ says. Caroline, 27, a pharmacist, and TJ, 28, an agronomic sales
representative, married May 6, 2017, at Buck Ridge Plantation in Neeses. The Leesville residents
are working on a year one bucket list they made on their honeymoon. Answers have been edited.

What was Als reaction to you
dating and getting married?
C: I knew TJ must be a great guy
if Al was OK with him taking me
out. Al was excited and support-
ive about us getting married.
TJ: I think I threw him a curve ball
when I asked for his permission to
take Caroline out, but he was awe-
some about the whole thing, and it
made us even better friends.
When did you know your spouse and as I was walking toward the
was the one?
C: A few months after dating,
44
ball game taking a stroll around
the dark baseball stadium, and I
knew there was something special
about her. The fact that she wore
orange that whole weekend just
for me sealed the deal.
Tell me about the proposal.
C: It was a chilly December night
when I went to his house to meet
him to go eat with some friends.
I pulled into the dark driveway,
front door the words Will you
marry me? appeared in beauti-
prayers and being surrounded
by friends and family.
TJ: Saying I do to my best friend. venue, and someone reminded
What advice would you give
a bride or groom planning a
wedding?
C: Try and enjoy every little
moment. You work so hard to
prepare, and it goes by so fast.
TJ: The best advice I can give the
groom is to just shake your head
yes and agree with everything the
bride says during the wedding
planning process.
there one day. Years later, TJ and
I were looking for the perfect
me of Buck Ridge Plantation. I re-
turned there for a visit, and it was
more beautiful than I remem-
bered. It captured both of our
personalities perfectly his love
for the outdoors and my vision
for a Southern plantation-style
wedding. We were so pleased
with our decision. The entire staff
was phenomenal and provided us
with an exceptional experience.
T: I was sold on Buck Ridge when

we had many long talks and ful twinkling Christmas lights on

moments where we were able to Why did you choose Buck Ridge we walked into the lodge for the
the front lawn. He then walked Plantation? first time and saw all the deer,
open up and really get to know
out (from hiding in the bushes), C: My best friends dad sent my duck, and turkey mounts on the
each other. I could tell we had
similar morals and values. From got down on one knee and asked friend and I to Buck Ridge Planta- wall.
these moments, I knew he was an me to marry him. He knows how tion for outdoor camp when we What part of marriage are you
honest, respectful, loyal, loving much I love Christmas! were about 12. I remember my looking forward to?
man I would love to spend the What was your favorite part of friend and I discussing how the C: Sharing lifes greatest moments.
rest of my life with. the wedding day? pond at Buck Ridge would make T: Growing old together and going
TJ: We really connected emotion- C: The special moments during the perfect setting for a wedding through this thing called life as a
ally one night after a Clemson foot- our ceremony vows, rings, and and we should both get married dynamic team.
BRIDES ATTIRE The White Magnolia (Greenville) GROOM/GROOMSMENS ATTIRE JoS. A.
Bank BRIDESMAIDS ATTIRE azazie.com CAKE Bonnie Brunt Cakes CALLIGRAPHY
Mendee Shealy CATERING Buck Ridge Plantation DJ Dave Gilbert, Partytime DJs
FAVORS/GIFTS Jakes Boiled Peanuts; Pine Press Printing; The Nut House EMBROIDERY
Carolines grandmother hand-stitched and applique inter her gown with two bluebirds
and the wedding date FLORIST Woody Worthy, Worthys Florist; additional designs
by Debbie Taylor, Gail Asbill and Hope Childers HAIR Chelsea Calvert, Upper Cut;
Teresa Easler HONEYMOON Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort (Aruba); Brian McPhillips,
Forest Lake Travel INVITATIONS/PAPER GOODS Pine Press Printing; Bravery Design
Co. JEWELRY Lexington Jewelers MAKEUP Megan Hannigan (Myrtle Beach)
MUSIC, CEREMONY The Jackson Sisters String Quartet; Bailey Slice Parker and Brian
Parker, vocalists; Philip Harrison, trumpeter OFFICIANT Revs. Matthew Rucker and
Lisa Isenhower PHOTOGRAPHER Julia Murray, Julia Fay Photography PLANNER Tina
Sheets, A Simple Affair Events (Huntersville, North Carolina) REGISTRY Amazon; Bed,
Bath & Beyond; Belk; Target; Crate and Barrel RENTALS Ruths House Event Rentals
(Charleston), vintage furniture; Something Borrowed, lighting and tents; T&S Farms;
King of Carts TRANSPORTATION Fun Tours (Orangeburg), shuttle VENUE Buck Ridge
Plantation VIDEOGRAPHY Thomas Kemp, 326 Films
 ADVERTORIAL

Modern Southern brides

register at Belk
D
ADVERTORIAL
oko Manor offers an elegant, serene setting for a wedding. The
unique facility is set in a 25-acre park and boasts fantastic
customer service and attention to detail.
The Manor offers indoor and outdoor spaces at reasonable rates
which include tables and chairs, setup and tear-down, a bridal room,
Wi-Fi and on-site attendants. Clients may choose their own decorators
and caterers, and a full catering kitchen is available.
Adjacent to Blythewoods Town Hall, Doko Manor is easily accessible
from Interstate 77. The venue is an easy drive from two metropolitan
centers 30 minutes from downtown Columbia and 75 minutes from
the Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
Contact director Steven Hasterok or assistant manager Johna Sutton
at 803-754-0501, or find Doko Manor on Facebook.

www.dokomanor.com | (803) 754-0501

facebook.com/dokomanor | Instagram: @dokomanor.

F
or Southern brides, a Belk registry is a longstanding
tradition.
Belk Columbianas bridal registry specialists,
Brenda Thomas and Amanda Cato, take that
tradition seriously, helping couples navigate the
stores extensive selection of products including those
exclusive to Belk and listening to whats important to them.
We consider it a privilege to
assist couples in creating
such an important part
of their new world
together, Thomas said.
... We throw all of our
experience into carefully
crafting a bountiful bouquet
of options for them.
The bridal department
hosts bridal parties with
vendors and prize
giveaways and provides
registry completion

E
discounts several
times a year, as well ADVERTORIAL
as brand-provided
xperience Southern hospitality and fantastic
prizes for completing customer service in a grand historic setting at the
portions of the registry. Francis Marion Hotel.
Best of all, Thomas and Cato Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, the
who have a combined 14 years of Francis Marion is walking distance to restaurants, shopping
experience working with brides and nightlife.
provide friendly, personalized and professional service. Start Built in 1924, the Francis Marion boasts historic ballrooms
your Belk Columbiana registry today. in a historic city.
Ready to plan your wedding? Contact Gillian Crum at

12
843-937-8699 or gillian.crum@thefrancismarion.com.

100 Columbiana Centre Circle | www.belk.com | (803) 781-4100, ext. 295

387 King St., Charleston | 843-722-0600 | www.francismarioncharleston.com
 The Perfect Place for Weddings, Meetings, and Social Events
Seating Capacity for up to 250
Tables and Chairs Inside Included
Set-up & Tear-down Services Included
Attendant On-site
Dance Floor & Stage Available
State-of-the-Art Audiovisual Equipment
Free Bridal Dressing Room
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Abundant Free Parking
Free WiFi

Located in Doko Meadows Park | 171 Langford Rd | Blythewood, SC

Contact Steve Hasterok for rates, information and tours.
803-754-0501 | hasteroks@townofblythewoodsc.gov
www.dokomanor.com

BEAUTIFUL
BEGINNINGS.
Every Moment. Every Detail.
Capture the spirit of historic Charleston
and experience her grandeur complete with
antique chandeliers, soaring ceilings, marble
replaces and monumental windows.
Beautiful wedding reception and banquet
rooms for the most intimate celebration.
Creative menu options. Expert catering McBee Photography
executives to help you plan every detail.
Honeymoon suites. Ample parking. We invite
you to experience Charlestons grand hotel.
47

387 King Street | Charleston, SC 29403

FrancisMarionCharleston.com
843.722.0600
Chris & Cami Photography Member Historic Hotels of America McBee Photography
 Photos by Liz Roberts,
Liz Roberts Photography
lizroberts.com

Its a good thing Virginia Boyd Tyson and John James enjoy traveling they spent nearly the
MARRIED IN THE MIDLANDS first two years of their relationship long-distance, with some time on different continents. They

Virginia
&John
married April 1, 2017, at Shandon United Methodist Church in Columbia, with a reception at Forest
Lake Club. Now, John, 27, is assistant vice president of Commerce Bank, and Virginia Boyd, 25, is

Boyd development director for The Alliance both in Corinth, Mississippi. They enjoy kickball, trivia and
cooking at home, and they look forward to traveling more, but together. Answers have been edited.

How did you meet? the hour or so we had to FaceTime. throwing the football with my down and eat dinner before we
VB: We met on Valentines Day, of Toward the end of her time in Ire- dad and sister, and he asked me walked upstairs to celebrate with
all days! land, I visited her for a week, and I to go on a walk. In a cleared-out everyone.
J: My best friend and college had no doubt she was the one. spot, he stopped and gave me the What advice would you give
roommate introduced me to Vir- Tell me about the proposal. sweetest letter anyone has ever a bride or groom planning a
ginia Boyd. He encouraged me to VB: My family spends a week in written me. The last line said, wedding?
ask her out at the Double Decker August in Hilton Head Island, and Now I just have one more ques- VB: Get the guest list out of the
Festival in Oxford, Mississippi, anJohn was invited last year. I am tion to ask you Then he got on
way as soon as possible! Every
annual arts and music fest. one of four girls, and boyfriends his knee and proposed!
part of the wedding planning
When did you know your spouse had only made rare appearances J: Her oldest sister had been
following us and took pictures. process is so fun and exciting and
was the one? at the beach, so this was a big deal. magical, except for the guest list!
VB: I moved to Ireland to be an au J: We got engaged on Aug. 9, 2016, When we got back from our walk,
her family and my family were J: Dont get caught up on small
pair right after we started dating in Hilton Head during the Vir- things. Your wedding day will
and had no idea where our rela- ginia Boyds familys annual beach waiting with a champagne toast.
be the best day of your life and
48

tionship was going to go. When I trip. The plans had been in the What was your favorite part of everyone there loves you and is
got back and started figuring out works well before, as her mom, the wedding day? there to celebrate with you.
my next move, I just realized that Mrs. Irene, helped guide me to VB: Before the ceremony, being
I loved him and really wanted to find the perfect ring, and her outside with my family and Johns Newlywed life is...
start a life with him. I knew that dad, Mr. Rob, helped orchestrate family and all of our best friends VB: Amazing. It is so nice to finally
he was going to be my future. the proposal day by keeping it a enjoying the day and taking pho- be able to live life with John in the
J: I knew she was the one after surprise that my family would be tos. It was a blue-sky day and 72 same state, town, and house!
she moved to Kinsale, Ireland, there for the proposal as well. degrees, so it was just perfect, and J: Fun. No more FaceTiming,
half a world away, and eight hours VB: It was that perfect time of I knew the day was going to end eight-hour drives, flights, or
difference in time zones, and my day on the beach late afternoon with me marrying my best friend. planned weekends; we can just
favorite part of the day was still right before the sun sets. I was J: Virginia Boyd and I got to slow take like as it comes each day.
 BAND The Tony Howard Band CAKE Parkland Cakes
CATERER Forest Lake Club DECOR Cricket Newman Designs FLORIST
Cricket Newman Designs HAIR Blue Orchid Salon HONEYMOON Cocobay
Resort Antigua HOTEL BLOCK The Hyatt Place Downtown; Springhill Suites
INVITATIONS High Cotton (Birmingham, Alabama) MAKEUP Pout OFFICIANT
Rev. C.E. Kanipe PHOTOGRAPHER Liz Roberts Photography PLANNER
Cricket Newman Designs PRESERVATION/ALTERATIONS Beatrice Licorish
REGISTRY non(e)such; Cottage and Vine; Belk; William Sonoma; Bed, Bath &
Beyond; Pottery Barn; Beverly Bremer Silver Shop; Anns of Corinth; Gingers
REHEARSAL DINNER City Marketplace RENTALS Party Reflections; Party Tables;
Table Wraps TRANSPORTATION Southern Valet VENUE, ENGAGEMENT PARTY
Row Gallery VENUE, CEREMONY Shandon United Methodist Church VENUE,
RECEPTION Forest Lake Club
 ADVERTORIAL
Wedding Album

Golden Isles: A romantic

getaway close to home

O
n the Georgia coast, midway between Savannah,
Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida, lie the Golden Isles,
made up of four barrier islands St. Simons Island,
Sea Island, Jekyll Island and Little St. Simons Island and the
historic port city of Brunswick.
The mild climate and southern hospitality, along with fine
restaurants and shopping, phenomenal golf and sun-
drenched beaches unite with modern technology and an
array of function spaces to accommodate groups of all sizes
and types: destination weddings, honeymoons and more.
The Golden Isles create a magical setting for any coastal
wedding or romantic getaway. Pristine stretches of beach are
50

punctuated by century-old trees draped in Spanish moss. The

Susie Benson and Ryan Young of Columbia were
married April 22, 2017, at Wavering Place Plantation
near Gadsden.
Photos by Jessica Roberts
Jessica Roberts Photography, jessicarobertsphoto.com
breathtaking landscape, historic churches and landmarks
define an atmosphere of a bygone era filled with romance.
This stunning location will make your special day a
memory that will last a lifetime. Whether youre looking for
an on-the-beach, toes-in-the-sand ceremony, or a formal and
traditional indoor event, the Golden Isles have plenty of
wedding venues to choose from.
To learn more about the Golden Isles and available wedding
vendors, please visit www.GoldenIsles.com, or call
800-933- 2627.
 Wedding Album
Catering to Columbia, since 1946

Photos by Patty Hallman

Studio Two One Two, studiotwoonetwo.com

Brooke Dimrock and Ryan Smith of Columbia

803.771.7385
eloped May 3, 2017, at the Richland County
SeawellsCateringSC.com Courthouse. They had a wedding photo shoot
at Aeolian Hill Plantation in St. Matthews.

Historic
MAKE IT

Historic building...
modern features...
unforgettable event.

RESERVE YOUR SPECIAL SPACE TODAY

SOUTH CAROLINA STATE MUSEUM
301 Gervais Street, Columbia
803.898.4901 | scmuseum.org
Wedding Album

Amanda
Wallace and
Nicholas
Stradowski
were
married
March 5,
2017, at the
Kingdom Hall
of Jehovahs
Witnesses in
Irmo, with a
reception at
the Columbia www.cityartonline.com
Museum
of Art.
Photos by Charlie Mather, Charlie Mather Photography Birthday, Wedding, and Specialty Cakes All Custom Made!
Thank You For Voting Us
The State's Best Bakery!

Shorus Manning
and Tim Minella
52

were married
April 1 at The Number One Spot for Custom Cakes!
Southside
Many Daily Specials!
Baptist Church
in Columbia, tiffanysofcolumbia.com
with a reception Diamond Pointe Shopping Center | 8502 Two Notch Road Columbia, SC 29223
at 701 Whaley. (803) 736-CAKE
Monday-Friday 7am-6pm Saturday 8am-3pm
Photos by Charlie Mather, Charlie Mather Photography
 Jessica Ker and

Wedding Album
Adam Rafferty of
Columbia were
married
March 5, 2017, at
the River Road
and Jasmine
Houses and
Gardens.

Photos by Patty Hallman

Studio Two One Two
studiotwoonetwo.com

Happily ever after

comes naturally here.

53

Ceremony and Reception Venues | Accommodations | Catering | Wedding Party Activities

866-522-4399 FrippIslandResort.com
 Jess FitzGerald
Wedding Album

and Chris
Collins were
married April
29, 2017, at Buck
Ridge Plantation
in Neeses, in
Orangeburg
County.

Photos by Charlie
Mather
Charlie Mather
Photography
54
 PHOTOGRAPHY VENUES, continued

Advertiser Index
REGISTRY

SPRING VALLEY
COUNTRY CLUB
We believe its the details that make
the difference.

803-788-3080 x103
300 Spring Valley Road
Columbia, SC 29223
www.springvalleycc.com
Contact: Rhonda Stone
Clubhouse Manager/Special Events Coordinator

VENUES

A step beyond your expectations.

Ceremonies Receptions
Corporate Events Catering
Rehearsal Dinners Lodging

231 Gundog Trail, Neeses, SC 29107

Phone: (803) 531-8408
www.buckridge.com

387 King Street, Charleston,

SC 29403
FrancisMarionCharleston.com
843.722.0600
55

Happily ever after Cidney Rogers and Tim Williams

of West Columbia were married

comes naturally here. June 3, 2017, at the Springdale House

and Gardens.

1-866-522-4399 FrippIslandResort.com Photos by Laura Effinger, Lola Dee Photography

 Reception Venues
1208 Washington Place 1208 Washington St., Columbia restored bank building with two ballrooms, twin vaults and a library
events1@1208washingtonplace.com www.1208washingtonplace.com 803-476-0285

403 North Lake 403 North Lake Drive, Lexington historic home with 1.5 acres of English gardens
Contact Marcie Huber or Rodney Huber info@403northlake.com 403northlake.com 803-808-2992

701 Whaley 701 Whaley St., Columbia flexible space for large and small events
Contact Tom Chinn 701whaley@gmail.com www.701whaley.com 803-771-0101

Agape Conference Center 1622 Main St., Columbia restored historic conference center
Contact Bob Lane blane@agapesenior.com www.michaelscafecatering.com 803-528-9556

The Big Apple 1000 Hampton St., Columbia historic grand ballroom, balcony, dance floor and banquet facility; dance lessons available
Contact Richard Durlach or Breedlove bigappledance@gmail.com bigappledance.com 803-518-6147

Ariels Special Events Facility 1734 Mobile Ave., West Columbia banquet hall with on-site catering
info@arielsspecialevents.com arielsspecialevents.com 803-936-0505

Brookland Baptist Conference Center 1066 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia

Contact Marnie Robinson or Monique Flowers www.brooklandbaptist.org 803-744-7909 or 803-744-7927

Buck Ridge Plantation 231 Gundog Trail, Neeses banquet hall, covered veranda, gazebo, and picturesque lake
Contact Melissa Clarke www.buckridge.com 803-531-8408

Capital City Club Capitol Center, 1201 Main St., Columbia ballroom
Contact Pamela Richards www.capitalcolumbia.com 803-256-2000

City Art 1224 Lincoln St., Columbia art gallery

Contact Wendy Wells www.cityartonline.com 803-252-3613

Clarion Hotel Downtown 1615 Gervais St., Columbia ballroom and smaller banquet rooms
Contact Stacee Davenport sales@clarionhotelcolumbia.com www.clarionhotelcolumbia.com 803-771-8711

The Club at Rawls Creek 2121 Lake Murray Blvd., Columbia banquet space and outdoor pavilion
Contact Jessica Duncan www.golfrawlscreek.com 803-781-0114

Columbia Conference Center 169 Laurelhurst Ave., Columbia ballroom

Contact Kelly Beasley www.columbiameetings.com 803-772-9811

Columbia Country Club 135 Columbia Club Drive West, Blythewood wedding ceremony and reception venue with full-service catering
Contact Heather Lathrop heather@columbiacountryclub.com www.columbiacountryclub.com 803-754-8100

Columbia Museum of Art 1515 Main St., Columbia museum, lobby, atrium, conference room, terrace and exterior patio
Contact Special Events Office www.columbiamuseum.org 803-343-2212

Corley Mill House and Garden 221 Corley Mill Road, Lexington home with garden space
Contact Sheila Hall or Stephanie Hall info@corleymillhouse.com www.corleymillhouse.com 803-957-1818

Courtyard Columbia Downtown at USC 630 Assembly St., Columbia banquet space
Contact events manager www.marriott.com 803-726-1603

Doubletree by Hilton 2100 Bush River Road, Columbia elegant event space with a Southern touch
56

Contact Norine Morris norine.morris@doubletreesc.com www.columbiasouthcarolina.doubletree.com 803-744-0141

EdVenture Childrens Museum 211 Gervais St., Columbia museum, outdoor terrace, galleries
Contact Theresa Dozier tdozier@edventure.org www.edventure.org 803-400-1151

Embassy Suites Columbia-Greystone Hotel 200 Stoneridge Drive, Columbia two ballrooms
Contact Alexa Wegner alexa.wegner@jqh.com columbiagreystone.embassysuites.com 803-252-8700

EventUs, LLC 709 Woodrow St., Suite 307, Columbia

Contact Annette Hoover 803-608-2242
A sampling of sites for weddings and receptions near the Midlands

The Farm at Ridgeway 3248 U.S. 21 South, Ridgeway rustic reception hall with outdoor ceremony venues
thefarmatridgeway21@gmail.com www.facebook.com/pages/The-Farm-at-Ridgeeway/57371956941

Fort Jackson Officers Club 3630 Semmes Road, Columbia outdoor wedding venues and elegant reception space
Contact Carol Neal www.fortjacksonmwr.com/o_club 803-782-8761 or 803-751-4906

Fripp Island Resort 2119 Sea Island Parkway, St. Helena indoor/outdoor facilities including screened Creek House and Beach Pavilion
Contact Group Sales Department www.frippislandresort.com 888-741-8974

Gibson Commons 140 Gibson Road, Suite C, Lexington ballroom and outdoor gazebo
Contact Amanda Kammer www.gibsoncommons.com 803-358-7122

Hampton-Preston Mansion & Gardens 1615 Blanding St., Columbia indoor-outdoor ceremony and reception venue
rentals@historiccolumbia.org www.historiccolumbia.org 803-252-7742, ext. 11

Hilton Garden Inn 434 Columbiana Drive, Columbia ballroom

Contact events manager www.hiltongardeninn.com 803-407-6640

Historic Lace House at the Governors Mansion 800 Richland St., Columbia historic home with garden area
Contact Michelle Langdon michellelangdon@gov.sc.gov www.lacehouse.sc.gov 803-737-2235

HoFP Gallery 2828 Devine St., Columbia urban art gallery with outdoor terrace
Contact Tensia Cassinetti info@hofpgallery.com www.hofpgallery.com 803-799-7405

Inn at USC 1619 Pendleton St., Columbia elegant boutique hotel on USCs historic campus
Contact Ashley Foster events@innatusc.com www.innatusc.com 803-231-3606

The Lake House at Lake Carolina 100 Lake Carolina Blvd., Columbia open-air space with screen windows and doors
Contact Julia Burley jburley@lakecarolina.com www.columbialakehouse.com 803-461-0915

Leaside 100 E. Exchange Place, Columbia ballroom, Florida room and secluded patio
Contact Alex Cebry sales@thesouthernway.com www.thesouthernway.com 803-783-9136

Lourie Center 1650 Park Circle, Columbia flexible space in Five Points with two ballrooms and six classrooms
louriecentersc.com 803-779-1971

The Manor at Doko Meadows 100 Alvina Hagood Circle, Blythewood banquet and reception rooms and a lakeside pergola
Contact Steven Hasterok hasteroks@townofblythewoodsc.gov www.dokomanor.com 803-754-0501

Marriott, Downtown 1200 Hampton St., Columbia two ballrooms and a tremendous two-story atrium
Contact sales director www.marriott.com 803-771-7000

McCutchen House University of South Carolina campus, Columbia restored home with Horseshoe as backdrop
Contact Carolina Catering sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/hrsm/for_the_community/mccutchen_house_dining 803-777-7919

The Medallion Center 7309 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia banquet space with pavilion, grand ballroom, salons and spacious entry
Contact Brandi Owens www.medallionconferencecenter.com 803-256-1222

Robert Mills House and Gardens 1616 Blanding St., Columbia outdoor event rental space with beautiful gardens
rentals@historiccolumbia.org www.historiccolumbia.org 803-252-7742, ext. 11

Millstone at Adams Pond 5301 Bluff Road, Columbia home with tentable areas, covered back porches and dining rooms
57

Contact Alex Cebry sales@thesouthernway.com www.thesouthernway.com 803-783-1061

Mitchell House and Gardens 421 North Lake Drive, Lexington historic home with covered patio pavilion; full-service facility
Contact Phyllis James www.mitchellhouseandgardens.com 803-359-5325

Mossy Oaks Farm 2986 S.C. 174, Edisto Island creekfront pecan plantation
info@mossy-oaks.com www.mossy-oaks.com 803-414-2898

Orangeburg Country Club 2745 Griffith Drive, Orangeburg grand ballroom, banquet facilities and scenic ceremony options
Contact Lauren Gray www.orangeburgcc.com 803-531-9673
 Palmetto Collegiate Institute and Leonard L. Price Gardens 104 Hendrix St., Lexington renovated school and gardens
Contact Jennifer Dowden www.lexsc.com 803-356-8238

Pine Island Club 331 Pine Island Road, Columbia reception hall on Lake Murray
803-781-6491

River Center at Saluda Shoals Park 5605 Bush River Road, Columbia park area, conference center and wedding gazebo
Contact Jennifer Cantey (River Center) or Angie Senn (outdoor space) www.icrc.net 803-731-5208

The River Road & Jasmine Houses and Gardens 2204 North Lake Drive, Columbia homes with garden space
Contact Sarah Christmus or Elizabeth Christmus riverroadjasmine@gmail.com www.riverroadjasmine.net 803-315-4953 or 803-781-3315

Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia botanical gardens, unique animal houses, Magnolia Room, Ndoki Lodge
planyourevent@riverbanks.org www.riverbanks.org/planyourevent 803-602-0900

Rock Bottom Pond 1530 Buck Hill Road, Ridgeway outdoor ceremony area overlooking pond and enclosed reception shed with fireplace
rockbottompond.com 803-438-9788

Seawells 1125 Rosewood Drive, Columbia banquet hall

Contact Cal Seawell www.seawellscateringsc.com 803-771-7385

Seibels House and Garden 1601 Richland St., Columbia indoor-outdoor ceremony and reception venue
rentals@historiccolumbia.org www.historiccolumbia.org 803-252-7742, ext. 11

Senates End 316 Senate St., Columbia hall, manor house, reception area and garden in unique Vista location on the Congaree River
info@duprecatering.com duprecatering.com 803-748-4144

South Carolina State House 1100 Gervais St., Columbia grounds, gardens, steps and rotunda
Contact State House events coordinator scstatehouseevents@gs.sc.gov 803-737-3880

South Carolina State Museum 301 Gervais St., Columbia main and planetarium lobbies, mezzanine, observatory, Vista Room
Contact Margaret Farish facilityrental@scmuseum.org www.museum.state.sc.us 803-898-4901

Southern Oaks 2401 U.S. 378, Gilbert rustic home and barns; new 5,600-square-foot reception area; antique furniture and decor
Contact Pamela Reeder southernoaks378@gmail.com southernoaks378.simdif.com 803-647-4518

Spring Valley Country Club 300 Spring Valley Road, Columbia country club and reception venue
Contact Rhonda Schock Stone rhonda@springvalleycc.com www.springvalleycc.com 803-788-3080

Springdale House and Gardens 3150 Platt Springs Road, West Columbia house and garden pavilion
Contact Kathy Wright facebook.com/pages/The-Historic-Springdale-House-and-Gardens/246450802864 803-794-5557

Stone River 121 Alexander Road, West Columbia event venue, wedding planning
Contact Patti Ginther or Lindsay Colvin events@stonerivercolumbia.com facebook.com/StoneRiverColumbia 803-727-8047

T&S Farm 3500 Pond Branch Road, Leesville banquet hall with beautiful grounds
Contact Sherrie Jumper sherrie@shealysbbq.com tsfarmweddings.blogspot.com 803-532-8135, ext. 213

Wavering Place Plantation 427 Adams Hayne Road, Eastover house and gardens
info@waveringplaceplantation.com waveringplaceplantation.com 803-269-7761

The Windermere Club 1101 Longtown Road East, Blythewood ballroom and patio on golf course
Contact Bill Chandler www.windermereclubsc.com 803-786-6088

Wintergreen Woods 1032 Corley Mill Road, Lexington reception hall, covered veranda and two courtyards
58

Contact Casey Covell or Dixie Covell www.wintergreenwoods.com 803-957-8888

Woodlands Country Club 100 Norse Way, Columbia private dining rooms and banquet space
Contact Derrick Owens www.woodlandscc.com 803-602-0253

Woodrow Wilson Family Home 1705 Hampton St., Columbia outdoor event rental space with beautiful gardens
rentals@historiccolumbia.org www.historiccolumbia.org 803-252-7742, ext. 11

To request that a venue be included in future publications,

or to update information for a venue listed here, contact marketing@thestate.com.
FOR ALL YOUR
WEDDING EVENTS,
weve got you covered!

The only thing we overlook is the view!

E N G A G E M E N T PA R T I E S CEREMONIES
BRIDESMAID TE AS RECEPTIONS
AND LUNCHEONS A F T E R PA R T I E S
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BRIDAL SHOWERS FA R E W E L L
REHEARSAL DINNERS BRUNCHES

8 0 3 . 2 5 6 . 2 0 0 0 | C A P I TA L C O L U M B I A . C O M
C l u b C o r p U S A , I n c . A l l r i g ht s r e s e r v e d . 2 9 9 4 6 1215 S S
You picked the perfect day.
We have the perfect venue.

Plan your wedding, rehearsal dinner or other

{
special event at the perfect Columbia venue.
{
The USC Alumni Center offers breathtaking views, exceptional
menus and a professional staff thats prepared to help make your
wedding day a relaxed, unique celebration.

The Alumni Center stands majestically on the corner of Senate and Lincoln
Streets in the Vista and is conveniently located near Interstates 26 and 77.
Call 803-777-4111 or e-mail sales@mycarolina.org to check date availability
or arrange a complimentary consultation.