April 2018

Top Bridal Trends for the Months to Come

As spring weddings approach, we are seeing confident and feminine looks that put a fresh spin on the classics. Trends that channel every bride’s inner personality and create a look that is less than traditional and out of the ordinary. The rise of temperatures in the spring and summer months brings inspiration for new bridal looks that are vibrant and enhance a seasonally appropriate feel. Consider design elements like ruffles, florals, color and cuts to add a playful vibe that suits this time of year!

Color Me Pretty: In bridal, ivory, white and alabaster reign supreme, but of all seasons this is the time to experiment! If you are unsure about wearing white, consider taking a risk with color. Choose soft pinks, pastel floral prints, butter yellow, something soft blue and pistachio greens for a look that feels fresh in the months where everything is in bloom – transforms the most traditional silhouette into something unexpected – or go bold with multicolor embroidery!

Back to Black: Black and white are a match made in heaven when it comes to everyday wear, and now the classic pairing is making a splash in the world of bridal fashion. A simple black belt can add a hint of edge to a sweet gown while black velvet ribbon accents provide visual interest without overwhelming a look. Even opt for a piece of dark jewelry or make a splash with a black shoe.

Short Story: From sassy minis to sophisticated tea-length dresses to romantic high-low hems, this trend is not afraid to play with length, and you neither should you. Raising your hemline does not require you to lower expectations for a dramatic dress moment. Shorter skirts feature embellishments and textures and allow for spunky layering. Bonus Perk: Showcasing your fabulous legs – or adding the perfect pop of color with an outrageous shoe.

Bang for Your Bow: Let’s be honest—putting a bow on a wedding dress isn’t exactly revolutionary. But bows are back and even bow-lder than before. This ultimate feminine detail softens up otherwise sultry looks but with ads a sophisticated spin. Asymmetrical bows stand out against clean lines and can introduce subtle volume to your sleeves. The trend has never felt fresher.

Hot for the Cold Shoulder: This trend may have already made its way into your closet—now the cold shoulder look is begging to be featured in your wedding. Strapless used to reign supreme, and then off-the-shoulder made its debut – now this neckline has proved it not going anywhere anytime soon. Add interest to a classic shoulder-bearer with ruffled, off-shoulder sleeves or a cut-out version that still feels fresh. This is the happy medium between a basic strapless gown and anything with sleeves. Bare shoulders and peek-a-boo cutouts highlight your enviable frame and infuse a soft and sexy appeal that feels right for the season.

 

Playsuits, Yes Please: In months where easygoing minis, blouson gowns and effortless A-lines are the best bets, try for something even more easygoing–a jumpsuit or palazzo panted set that feels as special as any bridal gown could. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to be the world’s sharpest dresser to pull off an all-in-one wedding-day look! Hint – the same rules for accessorizing apply! Don’t worry.

How to Choose a Perfect First Dance Song

The beloved tradition of having a first dance is a wonderful moment that signifies the beginning of a newlywed’s exciting journey together. Whether you choose to choreograph a routine or simply sway back and forth, this once in a lifetime moment is by no means supposed to be stressful. That being said, your song selection is a key component in making this moment magical and memorable.

We have created some tips below on how to choose a perfect wedding song that will create an unforgettable experience with your new spouse, allow for friends and family to gather around and admire your love, and kick start celebrating the wonderful night ahead of you!

1. Pick a song that has meaningful/sentimental lyrics to you as a couple; maybe it reminds you of the time you first fell in love, your journey together so far, or a special moment you have shared.

2. Choose something you can dance to. You want to be comfortable with how slow/fast the beat is so you hit those right steps you practiced. And if you miss one, don’t worry! Enjoy the moment and laugh about it together.

3. Find a song that resembles who you are as one. Every couple is unique and so are the endless amounts of songs to choose from! Decide whether you want to go for that romantic, classic, modern, or sheer fun tune.

4. Take into consideration your wedding venue. If you’re hosting a southern wedding, maybe choose an acoustic/country song or if you’re tying the knot at a destination, choose a song that originated from that location!

5. Utilize all the music services offered today. From Apple Music to Spotify and everything in between, there are sure to be tons of pre-made wedding playlists. While browsing, if you fall in love with a song, go for it!

6. Select a song from an artist/band that you both love. When you both relate to the song on a personal level, it makes your dance so much more extraordinary.

What’s up Charleston? Things To Do: April-June, 2018

It’s not just a city, but an experience!

Charleston is a remarkably dynamic place. Our beautiful city manages to preserve its historic architecture, prime coastal settings, picture-perfect landscapes, creative culture, southern charm and friendly locals. There is no question as to why Charleston remains one of the most notable destinations to visit- and to live! On top of everything Charleston has to offer, here are some upcoming things to do to that might make you excited for the months ahead!

Cooper River Bridge Run: April 7th, 2018
The 2018 Cooper River Bridge Run is right around the corner! The Bridge run is the 3rd largest 10k and one of the largest road races in the U.S. This is not your average marathon, the one-way course is just as scenic as it is challenging. So what are you waiting for? Put on your running shoes and experience it for yourself!

Flowertown Festival: April 6th – 8th, 2018
The 46th annual Flowertown Festival is almost in bloom! Every spring, thousands visit Summerville SC, to see the beautiful bounty of colorful florals. Consistently ranked one of the Top 20 events in the Southeast, the three-day festival transcends the gracious Southern town into one of the largest arts and crafts festivals around!

Second Sunday on King Street: April 8th, 2018
Happening every second Sunday of the month, enjoy an afternoon of shopping, sipping, snacking, and socializing along King Street. This pet-friendly event features new product launches and showcases Charleston vendors.

North Charleston Art Festival: May 2nd – 6th, 2018
The 36th Annual North Charleston Arts Fest is not one to be missed! Attracting more than 30,000 residents and visitors, the festival offers a number of unique opportunities with a vast array of arts and cultural offerings. The annual multi-day celebration highlights national, regional, and local artists and performers in the areas of dance, music, theatre, visual arts, media arts, and literature.

Charleston Gallery Association Art Walk: May 4th, 2018
Named one of The Best Free Things To Do in Charleston, the Art Walk welcomes art lovers, architects, and history buffs out for a night of appreciating our city’s exceptional talent and beauty. With more than 40 art galleries in pursuit of gaining the world’s recognition of Charleston as a global art destination, the Art Walk showcases local, regional and national artists.

Piccolo Spoleto: May 25th – June 10th, 2018
Focusing primarily on artists of the Southeast region, Piccolo Spoleto is the perfect complement to its parent festival, Spoleto Festival USA.  Annually presenting over 500 events, the 17-day Piccolo Spoleto Festival transforms Charleston into an exhilarating celebration of the cultural vitality and diversity of the Lowcountry. With a majority of free admission offerings, Piccolo Spoleto provides a varied program including visual arts exhibitions and performances of classical music, jazz, dance, theatre, choral music, ethnic cultural, poetry readings, crafts, and film. From classical to contemporary, from traditional to cutting-edge – Piccolo Spoleto has something for everyone!

Spoleto Festival USA: May 25th – June 12th, 2018
Now approaching its 42nd season, for 17 days and nights each spring, Spoleto Festival USA fills Charleston’s historic theaters, churches, and outdoor spaces with performances by renowned artists and emerging performers in opera, theater, dance, chamber, choral, and jazz music. With programs of the highest artistic caliber exhibiting dedicated young artists, a passion for contemporary innovation, and an enthusiasm for providing unusual performance opportunities the Spoleto Festival is one for the books!