Ask planner Kelly Strong of Kelly Strong Events to describe the perfect summer wedding in Charleston, and she’d start with a light and joyful coastal soirée that takes full advantage of the landscape’s splendor. And that’s precisely the image she and photographer Jessa Schifilliti had in mind when they designed this waterfront shoot. Lowndes Grove, with its iconic bright white façade, proved the perfect place for setting the scene, and also became a natural starting point for a color palette borrowed from the surroundings.
The intimate celebration put fresh spins on traditional details, from a table set with stylish flatware and a contemporary riff on chinoiserie china to the bride’s ethereal drop pearl earrings. The day was not without touches of whimsy, with the wedding cake’s butterfly design echoing an unexpected bridal shoe detail and the darling Blue Figgy arriving as the getaway car. All told, the afternoon was an inspired celebration of the pure, unbridled delight of being in love.
Styling, Made Simple
• Color Coordinate. When considering your palette, your venue is a great place to start. Pull base hues from the building, grounds, and other distinctive details, then bring in companion colors and textures that tie everything together.
• Spark Joy. Strong loves to see clients find a special item that makes them happy and carry it through the day’s decor. Remember that your wedding is a celebration of your unique love story—its aesthetics should feel true to you.
• Less is More. When you’ve got the graceful flow of the Ashley River and a long dock reaching across the water as a backdrop, who needs a showy altar display? Here, the pros allowed the unrivaled beauty of the Lowcountry to frame the nuptials.
• Loosen Up. Neutral florals have an inherent subtlety—but that doesn’t mean they can’t show off in other ways. Tupelo Honey Flower Shop & Co. kept arrangements loose and airy so they could move freely with the breeze.
Vendors
Photography: Jessa Schifilliti
Venue: Lowndes Grove
Planning & Design: Kelly Strong Events
Florals: Tupelo Honey Flower Shop & Co.
Beauty: Pampered & Pretty
Rentals: EventWorks
Cake: Tenacious Tart
Vintage Car: Lowcountry Valet
Bridal Attire: Monique Lhullier (designer), The Wedding Shop (boutique), Bella Belle (shoes)
Groom Attire: The Black Tux
Models: Directions USA
