We’re kicking off the week with a winter wedding that embodies the essence of Southern charm, vintage flair, and effortless elegance. Nancy and Matthew, a Georgia-based couple, exchanged vows in the picturesque city of Savannah, where their love story unfolded. The romantic atmosphere was set against the charming backdrop of this historic city, complemented by delicate florals, dainty china decor, and luxurious accents. Even the getaway car added to the whimsical touch.
Local photographers at The Happy Bloom captured every precious moment with perfection. Behind-the-scenes magic came courtesy of Ivory & Beau, who expertly planned and designed the floral arrangements. As we delve into this lovely couple’s special day, be sure to read about Matthew’s stunning proposal that left us all breathless. First, let’s get a glimpse of their big day, as shared by Adrienna & Nicole at Ivory & Beau.
From the Planners
Working with Nancy and Matthew was an absolute delight. As soon as Nancy arrived at our shop to try on gowns, the conversation flowed effortlessly into wedding planning. Before long, she had not only found her perfect dress and accessories but also booked us for comprehensive wedding services, including flower arrangements. Her vision was clear: a sweet, rustic, and comfortable celebration that prioritized fun and relaxation for their guests.
The ceremony took place at Whitfield Chapel, where they beautifully weathered the rain to focus on their love and commitment to each other. The talented team at Happy Bloom captured the magic of the day with stunning photos that radiated Nancy and Matthew’s joy. The reception at Savannah Station was a perfect fit for their theme, which we echoed through navy linens and blush and ivory flowers.
One of the highlights was having Matt’s two daughters as bridesmaids, resulting in some truly special moments between them and their parents. Nancy chose an exquisite organza mermaid gown by Blush by Hayley Paige, accented with lace, a veil by Jaclyn Jordan, and a stunning silver sash by local designer Adele Amelia. As the evening cooled, her gray fur cape added a touch of elegance and warmth.
Wedding Day Snapshot
Working with Nancy and Matthew was an absolute delight. As soon as Nancy arrived at our shop to try on gowns, the conversation flowed effortlessly into wedding planning. Before long, she had not only found her perfect dress and accessories but also booked us for comprehensive wedding services, including flower arrangements. Her vision was clear: a sweet, rustic, and comfortable celebration that prioritized fun and relaxation for their guests.
The ceremony took place at Whitfield Chapel, where they beautifully weathered the rain to focus on their love and commitment to each other. The talented team at Happy Bloom captured the magic of the day with stunning photos that radiated Nancy and Matthew’s joy. The reception at Savannah Station was a perfect fit for their theme, which we echoed through navy linens and blush and ivory flowers.
One of the highlights was having Matt’s two daughters as bridesmaids, resulting in some truly special moments between them and their parents. Nancy chose an exquisite organza mermaid gown by Blush by Hayley Paige, accented with lace, a veil by Jaclyn Jordan, and a stunning silver sash by local designer Adele Amelia. As the evening cooled, her gray fur cape added a touch of elegance and warmth.
Our Love Story
Our love story began over a casual cup of coffee at a downtown Savannah Starbucks, little did we know that it would be the same spot where Matthew would later propose three years and some change later. The scene was set for his birthday celebration, which involved a leisurely stroll down Broughton Street before heading to dinner at a nearby restaurant. As we sipped on our morning brew, I noticed something peculiar – two ceramic mugs sat before the barista, one bearing the label ‘Mr.
‘ and the other ‘Mrs’. The game was afoot, and as the meaning sunk in, I turned to find Matthew down on one knee, the entire coffee shop holding its collective breath. With tears of joy streaming down my face, I eagerly accepted his proposal. But that wasn’t all – our loved ones had been hiding in plain sight, waiting for the perfect moment to burst forth and join us for dinner.
The Inspiration
With a nod to romance and nostalgia, our chosen aesthetic featured a sophisticated blend of navy blue, muted gray, and soft blush tones. The result was a visually stunning backdrop that effortlessly evoked the charm of a bygone era.
The Flowers
The floral arrangements for this special occasion featured a stunning combination of blooms and greens. The bouquets were comprised of delicate pink and white O’Hara garden roses, elegant pink piano garden roses, ranunculus with their intricate layers, soft pink lisianthus, and the silvery-gray foliage of dusty miller. Adding an extra touch of whimsy to the arrangements were buttonholes featuring vibrant lisianthus blooms paired with succulents’ unique textures.
The showstopping centerpieces brought together a harmonious blend of white hydrangeas, romantic white stock flowers, pure white garden roses, blush-hued garden roses for a subtle pop of color, and the lush, seeded eucalyptus leaves. Succulent accents added a modern touch to this elegant yet playful floral design.
Advice for Other Couples
When it comes to planning an event on a budget, it’s essential not to overlook the treasure trove that is Etsy. This platform offers a plethora of unique and personalized items that can elevate your special day without breaking the bank. Additionally, keeping an eye out for clearance items on BHLDN can be a great way to score amazing deals. It’s also crucial to avoid settling for the first price you’re quoted.
Instead, take the time to shop around, compare prices, and ensure you’re getting the best value for your money in our experience, we found that being flexible with our budget allowed us to make some smart decisions. For instance, opting for a DJ instead of a band helped us save significantly without sacrificing the overall atmosphere and enjoyment of the event. Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of having a good planner on board.
Having someone who can keep you organized, provide expert advice, and help you stay on track can be invaluable in ensuring your special day goes off without a hitch.
The Photography
As I scoured through numerous portfolios of local photographers, one name consistently stood out: The Happy Bloom. What initially drew me in were the stunning visuals, with light that seemed to dance across each frame. But it wasn’t just the picturesque moments they captured – it was the genuine, unscripted interactions between subjects and photographer alike. And, after a wonderful encounter with Justin and Amanda during our engagement session, I knew we had found our perfect match.
The Setting
Bethesda Chapel exudes understated elegance with its unassuming yet charming architecture. The compact size creates an inviting atmosphere that fosters a sense of closeness and community.
The Ceremony
The most memorable aspect of our wedding ceremony was its unique, small-scale nature. By incorporating audience participation and interactive elements, we were able to make our loved ones feel like an integral part of the celebration. The atmosphere was warm and cozy, with everyone’s voices and laughter blending together in perfect harmony.
The Music
As the big day unfolded, the soundtrack for each moment was carefully curated to set the tone. For the processional, the choice of ‘La Vie en Rose’ by Edith Piaf added a touch of French elegance and sophistication. The lush orchestral arrangement complemented the beauty of the bride as she made her way down the aisle, surrounded by loved ones. The recessional saw a bold shift in tone with Djawadi’s iconic ‘Main Title’ theme from Game of Thrones, arranged for violin and cello.
Finally, the first dance was made all the more special by Ray LaMontagne’s soulful ballad, ‘You Are The Best Thing’. The emotional lyrics and soaring vocals created a romantic atmosphere that allowed the newlyweds to savor their love and commitment to one another.
The Decor & Details
As we curated our special day, Hobby Lobby became a frequent stop for us as we searched for mercury glass pieces to adorn our reception tables. Meanwhile, a sweet treat that’s dear to Savannah’s heart was the praline favors crafted by River Street Sweets. To add a personal touch, a close friend (AR Designs) created bespoke chalkboard signs for both the ceremony and reception.
For an added layer of charm, we set up a cozy lounge area at the reception featuring one-of-a-kind pieces from Savannah Vintage Rentals. This thoughtful touch helped to fill the expansive space and create a warm ambiance. Finally, we made our grand exits in style – departing the ceremony in a vintage Cadillac and the reception in a vintage Rolls Royce.
The Refreshments
As the cocktail hour drew to a close, we indulged in delightful appetizers like deviled quail eggs and succulent crab cakes. Meanwhile, several stations were set up throughout the reception room, offering a diverse array of flavors and textures; guests could savor tender chicken confit, savory shrimp and grits, juicy sliders, and a selection of delectable sides to accompany their drinks.
But the pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the wedding cake, beautifully complemented by a display of sweet treats from a local bakery. The assortment included petite petits fours, rich cheesecakes, and playful cake pops. And as if that weren’t enough, the groom’s cake was an astonishing masterpiece – a regal crown crafted from rice crispy treats encasing a decadent chocolate cake pillow.
The Honeymoon
Our honeymoon in Barcelona and Madrid was a truly unforgettable experience that I would highly recommend to any couple. The vibrant city of Barcelona offered endless opportunities for exploration and discovery; we had the most wonderful time, and it’s a trip that we’ll always treasure. It’s wonderful to see couples celebrating their love in such a beautiful way. Of course, there was also the Starbucks proposal story that had me smiling from ear to ear.
And I must extend my gratitude to The Happy Bloom, Ivory & Beau, and Nancy & Matthew for sharing their special day with us. This experience has certainly left me feeling inspired, and I’m excited to share more Real Life Weddings in the future.