Rolling coastal plains nestled against a historic home rich with Southern memories of past, present and future – Lowndes Grove speaks for itself and requires little embellishment to take your breath away. Knowing this, our bride and groom of the hour, Holly and Connor, complemented this venue with classic coastal decor, akin to the timeless charm of a Nancy Meyers movie set. Join us on a stroll through their picture-perfect, so-in-love at Lowndes wedding day.
Giggling in their textured satin loungewear, Holly and her bridesmaids popped a bubbling bottle of Veuve on the veranda of the mansion. Strikingly sophisticated in their black and white color palette, the girls raised a glass to Holly. Looking around at her bride tribe, she beamed a huge smile as her glamorous loose waves bounced on her shoulders. Stepping into the pink bridal suite with French blue curtains and a crystal chandelier, Holly slipped into her dress. The Anne Barge A-line dress with stripe knit jacquard fabric fit like a glove, showing off her decolletage with a straight neckline and gathering at her waist with a delicate bow. Slipping on her Louis Vuitton strappy block heels, she was swoon-ready to see her sweetheart.
Looking sharp in his accented royal blue boutonniere with white florals, Connor waited patiently overlooking the far-reaching waters of the Ashley River. Like a dream, Holly floated across the lawn towards Connor, tapping him gently on the shoulder. Stunned, Connor’s jaw dropped to the ground, then he burst into laughter and grabbed his beautiful bride. The bridesmaids and groomsmen watched with misty eyes on the veranda, their hearts singing for Holly and Connor. In the peaceful company of ancient oaks, sprawling palms and blooming crepe myrtles, the couple savored a quiet moment as they shared their sacred vows to one another.
The enchanted guests took their seats on the garden chairs, commenting on the stunning landscape and the impeccable floral arrangements blooming from the center aisle. The all-black wedding procession began to make its way to the front, setting a striking scene against the natural backdrop. Like a beacon of beauty Holly made her way across the green lawn with her dad by her side. She floated down the aisle, greeting her loved ones with a gracious smile before meeting Connor at the arbor. Looking confident and proud, Connor thanked Holly’s father and joined hands with his bride. Joyous as ever, the two locked eyes and giggled through the rest of the ceremony. Scooping his bride into his arms, Connor swung Holly around and kissed her like no one else in the world existed.
The guests moseyed about the property making note of the ornate architecture and the fresh breeze rolling off the marsh. Dining on local raw oysters and chicken and waffles, everyone enjoyed a sense of fabulous Southern hospitality. The newlyweds walked around hand in hand, thanking their guests and soaking up all of the well wishes. Stealing away for a moment on the dock, the couple snuggled in close as their lively party full of loved ones buzzed in the background.
As the reception doors opened, oohs and aahs filled the immaculate atmosphere. Soft, natural light poured in through the glass-enclosed portico, illuminating the coastal wedding wonderland. Blue and white fabrics covered every surface, complementing the natural seascape sparkling in the distance. Winding green garland woven with white roses trailed along the tables flanked with blue drinking goblets, gold flatware and jacquard napkins. Towering airy floral arrangements with blue and white hydrangeas punctuated the final touches of the Southern coastal aesthetic. Sitting back on bamboo chairs with white cushions, everyone felt like an honorary guest.
The wedding party kicked off the night with their silliest introductions, warming up the dance floor for the couple of the hour. Radiating with bliss, Connor and Holly took center stage and began their first dance to Thomas Rhett’s “Die a Happy Man.” Grinning ear to ear they dipped and twirled, Holly’s full skirt dramatically billowing as Connor lifted her up from the white and tan checkered floor. Following behind, Holly and her father shared a dance as everyone watched from the side with loving eyes. In her white and blue floral gown, Connor’s mom cherished her dance with her son, shedding a few quick tears before breaking off for her welcome speech.
As the sun began to set on the coastal horizon, the string lights and candles flickered warm light on everyone’s smiling faces. Amidst the spectacular ambiance filled with buzzing conversation, everyone dined on garlic seared shrimp with grits and mouth-watering filet. Some folks walked out to the dock to catch the sunset while others made their rounds greeting old friends and family. Holly’s mom took to the stage for a toast followed by the maid of honor and best man. Once everyone’s hearts were softened with their loving words, the DJ summoned the bride and groom to the dance floor to get the party started.
As the DJ lifted everyone’s spirits with the jubilant sound of the live saxophone, the guests began to show off their dance moves. Holly’s brothers danced a silly jig with Connor while Holly’s mom admired her sons from the side. Feeling sassy, some groomsmen loosened up their buttons to show a little skin while the bridesmaids took up real estate in the center. Connor scooped Holly up in his arms, twirling her around so she could see all the love surrounding her. Not taking any of it for granted, they sealed the moment with a kiss as their loved ones cheered them on!
What a fabulous start to your first chapter as Mr. and Mrs. Herr! We can’t wait to see where your love takes you!
Photography: Kailee & Tim Shields; Kailee DiMeglio Photography
Venue: Lowndes Grove
Wedding Planner: Bouquets & Bowties
Hair: Micki Hair Artistry
Makeup: Galya Gornishka
Florist: Jardiniere
Officiant: Alex Michaels (Family Friend)
Music: DJ Wade
Caterer: PPHG
Rentals: Snyder & Eventworks
Linens: BBJ Tavola
Lighting: DJ Bunn