Truth time: Sometimes we get these engagement sessions and straight-up envy the charmed Instagram-worthy lives the couples seem to live. And Kaitlin and Allan’s shots could do just that. But....
COLOR BLOCK
(above) A Charleston Bride purchased three-yard swaths of material from Hancock Fabrics in neutral suedes, velvets, and sheers. They cut each into 18- to 24-inch wide strips. Using a pipe frame from Life of the Party, they affixed a 2-by-4-inch wooden board across the top with zip ties. Next, they overlapped the frame with fabric and stapled each piece to the backside of the wood. The fondant-covered cake from Delicious Desserts was decorated in the same colors as the wall hanging and accented with a flower lined in gold for contrast.
TIME TO TOAST
(above) Many modern-day weddings embrace the trend toward signage-as-art. An added bonus for DIY brides? There are plenty of treats to dress your home long after the reception has wrapped. Case in point: A Charleston Bride commissioned Studio R to fashion a “Toast the Twosome” print in the same font and colors as the cake tags. They then slipped that piece into a galvanized metal frame from Celadon and voilà! Directions that act as décor and a keepsake frame for the couple.
LEAN ON ME
(above) We’ve all seen it—a stunning bouquet laying like a toppled mushroom by a wedding cake. Sidestep that sad fate with a little embellishment, as A Charleston Bride did here. Purchase glass vases from a floral supply shop, then turn each bottom up and spray-paint all over in gold. After vases are fully dry, use them to prop up bouquets, or place weights at the base of each, drop your bouquets in, fill with water, and place on tables or bars at the reception. Too busy to tackle any of this on your Big Day? Enlist your maid of honor.
NATTY NAPKINS
(above) You’re sure to have leftover material after making this fabric hanging, so cut remnants into 9-by-9-inch squares with pinking shears and fold each into a napkin. In lieu of a cake sign, consider making what Studio R did for the Delicious Desserts confection: tags tied to champagne flutes inviting guests to sample the treat.
Event Design, Florals, Vases, & Lucite Plates: A Charleston Bride, www.acharlestonbride.com
Signage: Studio R, www.studio-r-design.com
Fabric: Hancock Fabrics, www.hancockfabrics.com
Baker: Delicious Desserts, www.verydeliciousdesserts.com
Table, Bar Cart, & Background Frame: Life of the Party, Ooh! Events, www.OohEvents.com
China, Glassware, & Silver: Polished, www.PolishedTabletop.com
