A Not So Basic Bachelorette Weekend

Goodbye to nuptial traditions & hello to modern couples eager to travel!

The uptrend in both domestic and international destination weddings means saying goodbye to nuptial traditions, hello to modern couples eager to travel, and welcoming the bridal party to do the same. We can part with the days when throwing a bachelorette party meant a one night affair filled with bar hopping, tacky matching attire, and far too many shots! The bachelorette party is all about the bride making special memories with her closest friends, and a one night rendezvous just isn’t going to cut it. Bachelorette Weekend it is – and even better – make it a destination…maybe even to Charleston, SC! Organizing activities and getting a group somewhere for a destination weekend can be a tough task! Here are some of our favorite tips + ideas to make your weekend away (or stay) as smooth as possible, and fun for the whole group!

Land Your Lodging: Try an Airbnb instead of a traditional hotel

There is no better way to bond with the entire group than sharing a common space such as a home in the destination you are visiting. Everyone is able to get ready together, encouraged to hangout and chat in lounge areas, and eliminate any left out feelings within the group. Not to mention, splitting the cost of an Airbnb property can be substantially less expensive than buying individual rooms in a hotel or resort. ProTip: Buy communal snacks and drinks to keep in the kitchen for your clan, to satisfy any munching or quick bite needs.

Value in a Venue: If your lodging can’t accommodate all your activities, rent a swanky venue to host the weekend’s festivities! Check out venues that offer special packages specifically for bachelorette weekends or popup events for small groups. Check out one of our favorites here!

ProTip: Here are some unique private event ideas to host during your bachelorette weekend

Sweat It Out – Jumpstart your day and spend the morning breaking a sweat to getting those endorphins flowing and burn some wedding planning stress. A cardio, pilates and/or dance class at The Rutledge House is the perfect start to the weekend for you and your girls. After, reward your hard work, by indulging in a yummy brunch. Get more info about their yoga & brunch special here!
Belt It Out – Let’s be honest…We all love karaoke, but hate doing it for the whole bar to see. Host your own karaoke night and let loose with your ladies. I promise, Insta-worthy stories and videos will commence, especially with a group of ladies who feel no shame in belting their favorite 90s pop melodies.
Paint & Prosecco – Give your gals an opportunity to tap into their imaginative side and pour their creativity onto a canvas! Pop some bottles, sip on some bubbly, and paint away! Not only does this create lasting memories, it leaves you with a piece of artwork to cherish after the weekend is through.

Private Affair:

It can be tough establishing reservations for meal times that accommodate larger groups, especially when seeking a dining experience. Host a private dinner with an entirely chef selected menu. Set up a wine or beer tasting with appropriate food pairings. Showcase a chef demo with interactive elements. These intimate experiences will cater to everyone’s needs, and make the most out of your use of a venue. The Rutledge House Wine Cellar is the perfect backdrop for wine tastings and private dinners, and we offer a variety of options for you and your group. Check more info here!

Caffeine Crawl:

Get that pep back in your step after the weekend and try an unconventional approach to Sunday Brunch. Go on a caffeine crawl! Research local Coffee Shops, Tea Artisans, and Bakeries to try a little bit from everywhere. The fresh air and cups of joe might just be your bridal party’s saving grace.

Hire a Photographer/Videographer:

Quick, add this to your list of bachelorette weekend must-haves! Gone are the days of alternating between which girls take what photos, and the stress of posting photos in the moment. Why not hire a killer photographer/videographer to capture you and all your best gals during the celebration? Any photographer & videographer would be happy to capture these moments for you! ProTip: Plus..it’s the perfect surprise gift for the bride!

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.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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!

Charleston Wedding Favor Ideas: Unique Sweet Treats

There is no better thank you than receiving a taste of Charleston’s local flare. Wedding favors are the perfect opportunity to share something about yourself and to highlight your wedding’s location. With these memorable Charleston treats you can leave your guests with a little way to savor your big day!

Creatively Clean: Spun With Love!

Spun sugar treats aren’t just for kids!
Pure Fluff Co. is a clean cotton candy cart company located in Charleston. They provide seasonally inspired flavors made with natural ingredients! Bring a unique experience to your wedding day through these whimsical puffs.

Where Mason Jars Meet Mouthwatering Dessert!

Sweet Lulu’s Bakery & Cocktail Caravan is Charleston’s cutest kitchen on wheels. As mentioned in our look at Charleston food trucks for events, Sweet Lulu’s offers delivery services to any occasion directly from their customer built vintage inspired cavern. With personally-tailored labels and birch wood tasting spoons, your guests will fall head-over-wheels with this fun take on cake!

Made By Hand in Charleston! ‘Morning, Noon & Night’

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit keeps Southern traditions alive. With a variety of locally inspired sweet and savory flavors, Callie’s biscuits are the perfect morning-after breakfast for your guests. Package these puppies in a cute box for guests to enjoy the next day before heading home.

Taste the Original! ‘The New Donut’

Sweet Belgium, Charleston’s own Belgian waffle bakery, is where traditional methods meet exceptional creations. Send your nearest and dearest home with these incredibly fun and versatile bites!

Mix Things Up! ‘One of a Kind Small Batch Beverages’

Crafted and carbonated in Charleston, Cannonborough Beverage Company’s sodas are a playful combination of fresh pressed juices, hand picked herbs, and fruits at the peak of ripeness. Sipping surprises everyone can enjoy are always welcome. Provide a colorful straw and encourage guests to crack their favor during your toast!

Wedding Favor Ideas: Personalized Cold Brew Coffee

What do we all need the day after an event? Coffee! Get to know Chatterbox, an all-organic Charleston coldbrew brand that offers delicious blends in fully customizable packaging for your big day. We sat down with Owen, owner and founder, to discuss how he got started, how he makes cold brew coffee, and what special benefits make Chatterbox perfect for wedding & event favors.

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