events

Wedding Season Fashion Inspiration from Maris Dehart + Boho & Bows

Somehow, it’s already August. That means footballs are about to fly, pumpkin spice is in the air, and wedding season is about to be in full swing.

With the best time of the year upon us, it begs one question: what to wear?! We teamed up with one of Charleston’s best bloggers and boutiques to find the answer.

We got together with Savannah Guss of Boho & Bows to get inspired for the season. B&B, the life & style blog providing a spark of creativity from the perspective of a young mother, gave us top picks for the upcoming wedding season’s looks for the lowcountry and beyond.

We stopped by local standout boutique Maris Dehart because, well…how could we not? While walking out of Maris Dehart’s doors and not looking fabulous is virtually impossible, owner Alden Haviland had some special items waiting at The Cabana that even exceeded expectations. The Cabana by Maris Dehart, the summer-only section of the boutique, is a must-see if you’re on a search to stand out.

 

 

 

Savannah got started with this elegant white dress.

This stunner is the ultimate look for all things bride. Rehearsal dinner? Elopement? Engagement pictures? Beach wedding? Reception dress?  You name it, and this beauty can be styled for any bridal occasion. I absolutely adore the high-low ruffle hem & mini train on this dress; it’s the perfect touch to give this look sass & class! I love the versatility to pair with a bright statement earring for a more casual vibe or with a simple veil and some bling, you’re ready to say “I DO!’

 

 

 

I never met a fringe I didn’t like! The detail of this light, delicate fringe hem combined with the ever-flattering fit of a wrap dress & soft color makes this dress a total show stopper. This is a style that would look gorgeous on anyone. As a wedding guest or attendee of a bridal shower/brunch/rehearsal dinner, this look is fool-proof & fabulous!

 

 

I love the unexpected sass of a classy pants and top situation instead of a dress. If you’re a bride looking to breakaway from tradition, or just not so much of a dress gal, then ladies look no further! The simplicity of the black and white is stunningly elegant, while the detail of the fringe gives it that extra WOW factor. Throw on a bright statement earring for a pop of color and totally rock this look at a rehearsal dinner or engagement party!

 

This set is so eye-catching & fabulous and it’s such a fun alternative to a dress. The stripes with the small detail of fringe and high waist, in combination with the subtle crop, give this look the ultimate vibe of elegance and style. Sets are one of my favorite styles because they take the work out of having to “piece” an outfit together. They’re a fashionable no-brainer, if you will. This set in particular is super easy to style for a more casual bridal brunch or glam it up for a dinner, by a quick change of accessories, shoe, or a bold lip. (P.S. It’s super comfortable too!)

 

Whatever you decide to do when attending the big day of your nearest & dearest this upcoming season, Savannah says to make sure to stay true to yourself and you can’t go wrong.

“No matter the trend, cost or brand, true style is about who you are,” she says. “Kindness & confidence will never go out of style and will always be everyones best looks.”

A Corporate Retreat with Lexus

  We were so thrilled to design a weekend getaway to Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina for Lexus! As part of an incentive for their top performing reps, we handled the design and logistics to show them the best of the lowcountry. Forget the norm of golf and tours, we helped them do something different. We got them into the southern spirit with painting classes, local chef demos, wine tastings, and much more!

20 Southern Fashion Bloggers You NEED to Follow

It’s hot. The beach is calling. Fall is coming. There are decisions to make.

If you’re trying to up your style game, these girls (and guys!) are sure to get you inspired to make the most out of your look this season and next. Some are household names on the ‘Gram in these parts, while others are fairly new to the scene. Whether you’re a local or visiting our region for an upcoming wedding or event, these 20 fashion bloggers are all must follows!

Color by K

Image result for colorbyk blog

Kristin Chambless is a blogger located in Charleston SC.  Her blog and Instagram will inspire and help you style your life with more color.

Instagram: @KrisinChambless

Blog: Color By K 

 

Millennielle

Coco, a native of Nigeria, calls Atlanta her home!  She uses her blog to share positivity about what it’s like to be a millennial woman today. Her gorgeous blog focuses on travel, fashion, and beauty.

Instagram: @CocoBassey

Blog: Millennielle

Kerrently

Courtney Kerr, a Dallas native, runs online magazine Kerrently. Based off of her impeccable fashion sense, it was created after several TV show appearances when viewers were dying to know about her clothing.

Instagram: @Kerrently

Blog: Kerrently by: Courtney Kerr

 

Gal Meets Glam

Julia Hengle is from San Fransisco but now resides in Charleston. Her love for all things feminine is what makes her Instagram, blog, and clothing line so popular.  She has a post up now about finding the perfect wedding guest dress for next season!

Instagram: @GalMeetsGlam

Blog: Gal Meets Glam

 

KCDoubletake

Kenzie and Carol are twins living in Charleston, SC. Their relaxed take on Charleston style, along with their natural chemistry on camera, is what makes them so appealing to many. Double the style, double the fun!

Instagram: @KC_Doubletake

Blog: KCDoubleTake

 

Dannon Collard – Like The Yogurt

Image result for dannon collard blog

Dannon is a professional makeup artist in Charleston, having been part of the Hair and Makeup Team for Charleston Fashion Week for 2014 & 2015. Her instagram and her lifestyle blog, Like The Yogurt, are dedicated to her style and design. We can’t get enough of her clean white aesthetic!

Instagram: @DannonKCollardMUA

Blog: Like The Yogurt

 

Mumu and Macaroons

Image result for mumu and macaroons

Katy Harrell lives in Charlotte, NC where she runs her fashion blog Mumu and Macroons that is ALWAYS full of inspiration. She is your go to girl for all things summer in the south, as we particularly love her fun dress choices!

Instagram: @Mumuandmacaroons

Blog: Mumu and Macaroons

 

Chelsie Ravenell

Image result for kenneth beatrice

Chelsie is a fashion designer for the Kenneth Beatrice line, as well as a consultant for popular Charleston department store Gwynne’s. Take a look at his Instagram feed for some inspiration on old school southern meets modern mens fashion.

Instagram: @Chelsieravenell

Blog: akillalife.tumblr.com

 

The Bowtie Gent

Image result for the bowtie gent louis

Louis Matthews is a 22 year old who runs the PR firm GRAND in Charleston. His unique and exquisitely elegant ideas (powered by bowties!) are perfect for the southern gentleman.

Instagram: @Thebowtiegent

Blog: The Bowtie Gent

BonnieKateZ

Image result for bonniekatez instagram

Bonnie Kate Zoghbi is a native to Louisiana who now travels the country with her husband Max in their airstream. Her gorgeous Instagram gives our news feed life!  We love keeping up with her travels and how she meshes her style with her journey.

Instagram: @BonnieKateZ

Blog: Be AdventurUS

Madison Shaffer

Madison lives and blogs in Charleston. She incorporates her experience with Charleston Fashion Week and local favorite boutique Maris DeHart into a warm and sunny feed full of nostalgic vibes.

Instagram: MadisonShaffer

Blog: Meowing Mads

 

Mckenzie Sanders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mckenzie is a model, living part time in North Carolina and part time in New York, who just recently launched her fashion and lifestyle blog! We love her versatile style and her accounts of her life as a model around the globe.

Instagram: @mckenziepaigesanders

Blog: Life + Style by: Mckenzie Sanders

Boho and Bows

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Savannah is a blogger with tremendous taste and a unique perspective: she’s a mother of two! You’ll find her Insta and blog full of great summer finds as well how she handles life with her children and husband, providing tips and inspiration for so many angles of life.

Instagram: BohoandBows

Blog: Boho and Bows 

Andi Eaton

Andi is a creative director, stylist, and writer.  She is located in New Orleans, but is usually traveling all over. We love looking at her relaxed boho style and fun adventures all over the world!

Instagram: Ouiwegirl

Blog: Oui We

Goldfishkiss

Rebekah Steen, located in Pensacola Beach, FL, can be located on the beach at all times it seems!  Her blog and Instragram are focused on her feel good moments, beach watercolors, and fashion tips.  We love her honest mom moments about her son and her amazing beach style we all wish we had!

Instagram: Goldfish_kiss

Blog: Gold fish kiss

The Fashion Poet

Annie Vazquez is one of the best fashion bloggers in Miami! We love her work not only because of her fashion sense and travel exploits, but her continuing message of body positivity for women.

Instagram: Thefashionpoet

Blog: The Fashion Poet

Mary Ralph Lawson

Mary Ralph is a 20 something year old from Austin, now living in Malibu. Her Instagram puts a smile on our face because of her fun beach style! She works for Bumble and her adventures will keep you swiping for more (see what we did there?).

Instagram: mralphlawson

 

Goldwill Digger

Betsy, from Nashville, TN, runs a site entirely based on value shopping. Possessing a self-proclaimed “champagne taste on a beer budget”, she will help you find inspiration by combining awesome pieces at Goodwill! Saving while finding satisfaction in a great find is a no brainer.

Instagram: goldwilldigger

Blog: Goldwill Digger

 

KB Styled

Brooke is a wife and mom in Nashville, TN.  She focuses on fashion, beauty, and lifestyle but what we like most about her is that she isn’t just a fashion blog.  Her blog has restaurant reviews as well as home design tips! A one stop shop for our key interests.

Instagram: KBStyled

Blog: KB Styled

The Dainty Darling

Courtney is living in Charlotte, NC while running her site The Dainty Darling. You might mistake her blog for a magazine, as her chic style spans across hotel reviews, life adventures, and chronicling being a young mother.

Instagram: Courteink

Blog: The Dainty Darling 

 

 

 

Visiting Charleston? Unique Things to Do This Summer

Whether you are new to Charleston, lived here for many years, or came on vacation, you are probably looking for something to do this summer. We have done the research for you and have found several unique events for you to attend. All these all-ages events embrace what Charleston has to offer!

Weekend Wine-Down:

Every Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Deep Water Vineyard, Charleston’s only vineyard, is the site for a fun night of food, wine, and live music.  Located on Wadmalaw Island, Deep Water Vineyards is proud to host their very own unique wine event every Saturday.  Whether you live in Charleston or are visiting for a vacation, Weekend Wine-Down is a perfect place for socializing and making new friends.  If you want to try something new this summer, Weekend Wine-Down is worth the drive!

View on Maps

Charleston River Dog home game

If you want to join the locals for a night full of fun for all ages, a Charleston River Dogs is a great place to take the family. Located on the downtown peninsula, its a great place to head to before dinner or drinks! Check the schedule here to see upcoming home games. Weekday games start at 7:05, Saturday games start at 6:05, and Sunday games start at 5:05.

View on Maps

Charleston Farmers Market:

Every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m head downtown to Marion Square Park to get some local produce, food vendors, and products from local artists.  Charleston Farmers Market  is a great place to take the family for a fun day activity.  Located between King Street and Meeting Street you will be in the middle of plenty of other shopping and restaurants!

Shagging on the Cooper:

If you are looking for an exciting event with live music, head over to the Mount Pleasant Pier for some fun dancing and live music.  This is a great family event, located under the Arthur Ravenel Bridge with incredible views of the Cooper River.  On a hot summer evening come join charleston locals dance the night away in the cool breeze over the water!

View on Maps

Wannamaker Movie Night

Looking for a fun night in the park? Wannamaker County Park has you covered! Bring your own chairs and blankets, take a seat in the park, and enjoy a movie with the Charleston community.  When the sun goes down the movie comes on! Check here for the movie schedules.

View on Maps

Charleston has so many things to offer to its visitors, from an exciting downtown area, a beautiful view of the Cooper River, to the stunning outdoors away from the city.  Come take a look and enjoy different things that Charleston puts on for its community.  Come bring your family and friends and enjoy your night with us!

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!

Embracing Diversity with Every Design

Something that we take great pride in is our ability to meet any need in any situation. More than the ability to adapt, running a successful event requires the ability to anticipate. Event and hospitality pros are consistently required to respond to the needs of their guests, which far exceed a 7 a.m. wake-up call or a comped meal to apologize for cold chicken. We live in a world where diversity should be celebrated and where individuals are encouraged to express their views and defend their identities. As a result, a well-designed event requires a certain level of cultural competence—the ability to effectively identify and respond to various cultural factors that can have an effect on how a guest responds to an experience.

Here is how we keep cultural competence top of mind when designing an experience for different groups of guests:

  • 1. Stay up-to-date on cultural and social conflicts.
    This is basic but essential. It’s important to pay attention to current events and beware of things that could be interpreted as offensive or discriminatory. It’s very possible that a lack of sensitivity could promote harmful assumptions and stereotypes that make certain guests feel out of place or offended.
  • 2. Approach ‘difference’ with curiosity and respect; learn from people who are different from you.
    You may even realize that others’ ideals make more sense than what you’ve been taught! For more perspective, consider Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory, which essentially analyzes culture through six indices:

    • Power Distance Index
    • Individual vs. Collectivism
    • Uncertainty Avoidance Index
    • Masculinity vs. Femininity
    • Long-Term Orientation vs. Short-Term Orientation
    • Indulgence vs. Restraint.

    The score of each index offers a means to analyze the behaviors associated with each respective dimension. For example, the Uncertainty Avoidance Index measures the scope in which members of a society respond to ambiguity. A high score on this index suggests an aversion to and potential fear of uncertainty, which may help explain why some of your guests ask an overwhelming amount of questions about their ground transportation to the airport.

  • 3. Examine our background and culture.
    We challenge ourselves to analyze how our own cultural environment has shaped our attitudes and experiences. When you can understand the logic and context of your own beliefs, it’s easier to be sensitive to the beliefs of others.Questions to consider when constructing a hospitable space or designing an event:

    • Are there any cultural or religious conflicts with the location, time, and date of the event? 
      Is there disability access to the space?
    • Are there food options that consider religious and dietary restrictions?
    • Is there a dress code that should be communicated to guests?
    • Is there any point where guests will need to disclose information about their gender and/or sexuality?

These questions prompt us to consider how slight adjustments in our planning processes can cultivate a more inclusive environment. Take time to consider some of these to create personalized and customized experiences and different communication channels for different groups of guests.

Crafty Ceremony and Reception Ideas

While preparing for the happiest day of your life, you’ll be creating amazing memories and keepsakes along the way. The only question is, what makes the perfect wedding craft? Here is some inspiration for getting in touch with your creative side to seamlessly infuse your personalities into crafty touches for the big day! 

Ceremony and receptions signs are extremely helpful in directing guests where to go. Why not make those signs a little more personable? Incorporating your theme into these focal points will help frame your picture perfect day. The possibilities are endless. Take a look at this customized seating chart design from one of our weddings at Harborside East!

A great way to showcase your wedding’s location is to integrate it’s natural elements into the design. Photo displays are a sentimental way to feature special moments or to honor loved ones. Peek your guests’ exploratory interests while giving them a glimpse of some family memorabilia with this crafty family tree…literally!

Cocktail hour provides guests with a little downtime to mingle and relax before the big wedding celebration. Give them something to talk about and consider adding a little floral fun to your signature drinks. These stunning edible flower ice cubes are impressive yet incredibly easy to execute. After all, who doesn’t love a little botanical pick me up? Check out how-to instructions.

The wedding guest book is for capturing the names and special wishes of those individuals who celebrated your wedding. Personalize this wedding detail by transforming it into an interactive, DIY activity that makes it memorable for you and your guests. Get creative and be unconventional.

Pro tip: Try a guest recipe book! Start by sharing your favorite recipe, ingredients, or restaurant as inspiration, and throughout the ceremony guests can join in the fun. How fantastic would it be to try out their suggestions throughout your marriage?

The newlywed send-off is a magical tradition that is meant to bring good health and prosperity to your marriage. Sparklers, confetti, and rice are typically the go-to wedding send-off, but why not shake things up? Ring in the start of your new journey with these DIY lace tambourines. This sweet craft will help end your celebration on a positive note, that will resonate with your guests afterwards. Check out how to make these here.

We’re always striving to do something different, and there is no better way than to be crafty and creative with elements from each part of your big day. For more inspiration, head over to Charleston Crafted for some unique, locally-made items that can be incorporated into your design to make the day even more memorable.

New Event Rentals at EventWorks

We stopped by EventWorks, one of the southeast’s largest event rental companies, to chat with Ashley about what they offer for events as well as all of their new amazing rental options for 2018!

Falling in Love with Kaley & Pete

One of our favorite parts of being in the wedding planning industry is learning about our bride and groom’s story on how they met, where they fell in love, and their dreams for the future. We love them so much that we want to start sharing these magical stories with you!

Kaley & Pete’s upcoming fall wedding at Magnolia Plantation is sure to be picturesque, romantic, and memorable. We cannot be more excited to be apart of making their visions of tying the knot a reality. We chatted with Kaley and got some insight on how their love story unfolded, why they chose Charleston, and so much more!

Pete pops the big question.

How did you two meet?

We met a few years ago when Pete was living with a mutual friend. We were both dating other people at the time but were always friends and one day, the timing finally worked out and we had our first date on Halloween night of 2015. After that first night, we were inseparable.

How did Pete pop the question?

Our engagement was an elaborate scavenger hunt around downtown Orlando, at places that were significant to our relationship, like the place where he asked me to be his girlfriend. My sister and best friends were stationed at each location to give me my next clues. My final clue led me to a garden where we often took our dog Scout for walks. Pete (and Scout) were waiting for me inside the gardens and the rest is history. Right after I said “yes!” He led me around the corner to another surprise of all of our family and friends waiting with champagne to celebrate. We all went back to our place and had a giant pool party to keep the fun going.

What made you decide on getting married in Charleston?

As soon as we got engaged we decided we wanted some kind of destination wedding. We had both been to Charleston numerous times and absolutely loved it. It was an easy pick for us! Beautiful scenery, awesome restaurants and fun bars. What more could we need?!

How did you narrow your focus on venue spaces?

Once we decided on Charleston, we knew we wanted to get married somewhere with beautiful outdoor spaces. We started doing some research and found Magnolia Plantation. As soon as we saw it, we knew it was the one. Pete’s younger brother Chris was actually a wedding planner in Charleston a few years ago. He still had contact with a some of the other planners there and put us in touch with Chelsye, who is one of his good friends. We had a quick phone call and felt good about it but then completely fell in love with her when we met her in person for the first time at Magnolia. Chelsye has been such a godsend since day one of the planning process. She is so easy going, enthusiastic and makes the planning process easy and fun. We adore her.

What are your dreams for your big day?

Pete and I actually agree on the most important aspect of our wedding- Fun! We want a beautiful night of dancing, eating and celebrating our love with our closest family and friends. Honestly though we have agreed on almost everything thus far with the planning- Either that or he just lets me run the show and goes along with it 😉

Where do you see yourselves after tying the knot?

After the wedding we will still be living in Orlando, hopefully in a house that we will be shopping for in the next few months. We will be honeymooning in summer 2019, either in Thailand or Switzerland most likely. TBD!

Kaley + Pete.

Charleston Fashion Week: Try This on For Size

 

Lexus Charleston Fashion Week, held in Marion Square here in Charleston, South Carolina, is a five night fashion event aimed to showcase emerging designers, model talent, fashionable boutiques and trendsetter personnel. Organized by industry experts, Charleston Fashion Week is recognized as a premier event and serves as a pathway to New York. This truly multimedia event harvests Charleston’s talent along with nationally renowned designers, runway shows, activities, and of course shopping! Here are a few tips you can try on for size.

1. Do Your Research

Review the official program. There you will find all onsite and offsite events that take place throughout the week. Hint: Review the official map or download it to your phone for easy access. With so much going on, it is easy to get lost in the hustle – Save yourself the stress.

2. Don’t Over Commit

In theory, It may seem like a great idea to attend every single event during the week. Highlight what peaks your interest and start from there, it is easier to add to your schedule rather than take away.

3. Experiment

Don’t shy away from attending a show that seems far fetch or not your style..expand your horizon, you might surprise yourself.

4. What to Wear

Picking your ensemble might be the biggest question for anyone attending a fashion event. It is good to dress the part, but do not feel pressured to conform to the norm. This is your chance to show your own personal style. The fashion world is your oyster, time to display your pearls.

5. Have a Plan

Don’t linger at doorways, stand in aisles, sit in seats that aren’t yours, or do anything that stops the ease and flow of traffic at the show. The coordinators, staff, and volunteers work tirelessly to execute a seamless event – Don’t be a bump in the road.

6. Space

Manage your space – Manage your accessories, no matter how fabulous. Hold umbrellas downward, handbags and clutches to your side, and please – tuck your feet under your seat.

7. Be Inquisitive

Fashion Week is a such a great networking opportunity. Make it a point to seek out industry experts, local designers, social media buffers, and fashion bloggers.

8. Mingle

Let’s face it, people in fashion don’t always look the most approachable. However, under that fab exterior they share the same passion for fashion as you – Break the ice and introduce yourself to fellow attendees seated around you. You never know, you may bond over your love for accessorizing or hate for sneaker wedges.

9. Have a Good Time

You’re there – watching an amazing show, mingling with knowledgeable patrons, witnessing new looks, absorbing new ideas, your creative juices are flowing – there is only one thing left to do – Enjoy yourself! Soak in the atmosphere and observe the details of the garments. Be dazzled!

10. Say Thank You

Don’t forget to thank anyone and everyone working the Fashion Week Events. Many of the coordinators and models are volunteers – they do this for their love of fashion!