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Edit or's Let t er

Summer/Fall 2013

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Cover Bride: Caitlin Nor thcutt Gomez

In this issue of Carolina Bride we focus on the numerous ways your wedding can be customized based on your taste and style. Phyllis James of The Mitchell House walks us through her beautiful one-stop-shop for the perfect wedding in Lexington. Cricket Newman, one of Columbias premier event designers, talks to us about the benefits that custom draping can bring to your venue. The Moseley brothers teach us all about the hottest new trend in the jewelry industry: custom design engagement rings. We interview the owners of Stone River; the new riverfront venue that will open in the next few weeks. Amanda Cato, Belks bridal registry specialist, demystifies the process of choosing and then using fine china. Geoffrey Sandifer, former chef of the governor, tells us about his catering business and his inclination towards custom wedding menus inspired by the bride and groom. Travel Leaders discusses the unique memories that are made when you choose a destination wedding. We get to display the amazing talent of a number of photographers in Columbia including Dave Gilbert, Katie Hart, Calico Photography, and many others. Customized details will be the elements that set your wedding apart from the rest. This issue of Carolina Bride will guide you successfully towards the stunning and perfectly personalized wedding day of your dreams.

Photo provided by Dave Gilber t special to Carolina Bride

Volume 9, Number 2

Summer/Fall 2013

President and Publisher The State Media Company Henry B. Haitz, III (803) 771-8693 publisher@thestate.com Vice President of Advertising Bernie Heller (803) 771-8650 bheller@thestate.com Sales Operations Manager Emily Folsom Fernandez (803) 771-8655 ecfernandez@thestate.com Contributing Writers LaKisha Greene (803) 771-8646 lgreene@thestate.com Laurie Devore (803) 771-8526 ldevore@thestate.com Art Direction Louie Lanford llanford@thestate.com For additional copies and back issues: (803) 771-8431 For general information and inquiries: weddings@thestate.com

Carolina Bride is a publication of The State Media Company and is not associated with the editorial department of The State Media Company. Carolina Bride is printed twice yearly. All contents Carolina Bride magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part of the contents, without prior written permission of the publisher, is strictly prohibited. The magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manu scripts, photography or artwork.

contents 12

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7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lauren & James Engagement 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Zuri Raushannah Wilson and Nathaniel Ryan Phillip Valdell Seymore Engagement 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jennifer & Eric Engagement 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Once Upon a Time

12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Love Grows: Caitlin Nor thcutt & Joshua Gomez 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Mitchell House & Gardens 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Circus of Love: Debbie Kamowski & Matt Carroll 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wedding Weekend: Mary Waits & Justin Creech 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Belks Fine China: Find the Perfect Set 34 . . . . . Let Moseleys Help You Design the Perfect Engagement Ring 36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tailor-Made Weddings at the New Stone River 38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Events by Geoffrey 41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Catering Considerations 42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The Ar t of Draping with Cricket Newman 44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Destination Weddings 47 . . . . . . . . . . . Getting Married? Impor tant Organizations to Notify. 48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wedding Album 51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Obtaining a Marriage License in South Carolina 52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Celebration Announcements 55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wedding Day Checklist 56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reception Venues in the Columbia Area 58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stationery Checklist 59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adver tiser Index 62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Happily Ever After

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Lauren James

&

As told by James Photos by Dave Gilbert & Katie Hart - www.palmettoduo.com When Im asked about how we met, I believe others may discount thatours wasnt exactly love-at-first-sight. Ive never been a big believer in that anyway as trust, respect, and love are things that are developed over time. I first met Lauren when she interviewed for a position at a company I owned. It was months before I was overwhelmed by my growing interest in her. I still cant get enough and anxiously await the day we marry. Lauren accepted my job offer in 2009. An acquaintance of hers was leaving the position and was tasked with helping to locate her replacement. Lauren was recommended and, as she tells it, had put off the opportunity until the last minute considering the work wasnt related to her field of study. As an employee she was off-limits; I would have never anticipated a personal relationship with her. Lauren was a remarkable individual, however. She was oblivious to how exceptionally beautiful she was. She was hilarious, with a million stories of her antics last weekend. She had a likable personality -- easy-going with no consideration for social stratification -- which explains why everyones her friend. Most importantly, she was dignified. Soon we became friends outside of work. It was so fun to be with Lauren. We shared an interest in people, their stories, and joking around together. Very little seemed to phase this happy-

go-lucky beauty queen. I cant say the same for myself; the check-my-breath-a-thousand-times on the way, wipe my sweaty palms, and nervousness during our first kiss reminded me of just how significant this person was to me. Dates on numerousoccasionswere to other weddings. As youd guess, she caught bouquets (lots of them) and I caught garters. Her happiness during these events only helped to answer the question of her interest. Little did she know thatId married her so many times in my dreams. She was already my wife; I just needed to make it official. I was so confident in my desire when I took to one knee last New Years eve that nervousness didnt have a chance. I had gone to great lengths to conceal the delivery and retrieval of the engagement ring and although I had a few close calls (such as odd why are we going here? moments), she was surprised in a crowd ofmasqueraded attendeescelebrating the countdown while a photographer at the event captured her acceptance. Im so grateful for every turn of events that brought us together. To this day I still feel like its all too good to be true. Ive imagined us together at every stage in life -- her as a mother and grandmother, with us growing old together and the opportunity to be there for her every need.Now its time to create and share these moments together. ...if only October were already here!

Lauren & James

Nat haniel

&
Z uri

As told by Zuri Photos by Calico Photography Zuri Raushannah Wilson and Nathaniel Ryan Phillip Valdell Seymore met in Spring Valley Apartments and quickly became friends. They shared poetry, often free styled rhymes, did martial arts and sang many songs in the breezeway. They always respected one another as friends and provided a shoulder for each other to lean on during challenging times of need. They attended numerous open mike events and especially enjoyed traveling to Charlotte everySunday. When both had romantic relationships end at the same time, Nathaniel began to pursue

Zuri. She was reluctant because of a previous failed relationship with a friend. She made him promise that they would always remain friends regardless of the outcome of their romance. Prior to his departure to New York for college he presented her with a promise ring. Two and a half years into the relationship Nathaniel officially proposed at a party at The Coop. The evening was perfect. While seated in the VIP section he pulled out a gorgeous butterfly ring with their birth stones and their names engraved. Zuri was in awe, she knew he was going to eventually propose yet she had no idea when she rose that morning it would be on Friday August 4, 2012

Zuri Raushannah Wilson and Nathaniel Ryan Phillip Valdell Seymore

Jennifer Eric

&

As told by Jennifer Photos contributed by Jennifer Pace On Friday November 2, 2012, Eric made dinner reservations at our favorite restaurant, Terra. We try and treat ourselves there as often as possible so I really didnt think anything of a fancyFridaynight dinner. I was just excited for some amazing food!Before we left for dinner he said we needed to drop off his dog, Bear, at his brothers house (very much out of the way but his 3 year old niece begged that we drop him off for a sleepover). When Eric passed his brothers house I started getting confused. I was worried wed be late for our reservations. He pulled up to a strip of vacant lots that we had looked at in the past and asked me to get out of the car and walk with him. Usually, Im the one that likes to walk lots and imagine how a house will sit on it with a yard and so on. The fact that he wanted me to walk with him was weird. I tried to keep up as he

was practically running around the lot! I asked if he had bought it and he said yes. I told him how proud and happy I was for him and that this will be a beautiful place to have a home (not thinking it was for us yet). Then I reminded him that we needed to hurry because our reservations were in 15 minutes. I started walking back to the truck and he said, Theres one more thing... I turned around and he was on his knees, ring box in hand and as I walked toward him (hands over my mouth) he asked, Will you marry me? and of course I said Yes! To be honest, I cant remember if he gave me the ring or if I took it directly from the box and put it on my finger. We hugged and kissed and then he was in a rush yet again...he said we needed to go to his parents house and tell them that I had said yes. We got to his parents house and both of our families and a few of my closest friends were there to greet us with hors doeuvres and champagne. It couldnt have been more perfect! Jennifer and Eric

Once upon a t ime

Photos, Copyright 2013, Adrienne Daniels, special to Carolina Bride

Catherine Hunsinger and Nathaniel Krueger were married on Saturday June 29, 2013 at 701 Whaley. The creative bride used newspapers as the primary decorative element for her wedding.

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Book your honeymoon or destination wedding with Columbias honeymoon and destination wedding boutique Eileen Nason, CTC, Destination Wedding Specialist 1150 Bower Parkway, Suite F1B, Columbia SC 29212 101 Sparkleberry Crossing Columbia, SC 29229 destination-wedding-experts.com At Travel Leaders of Columbia, we live by this rule: People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did . but people will never forget how you made them feel

Love grows in enchanted garden wedding

By: By Erin Shaw Photos provided by Robin Garner, special to Carolina Bride

When Caitlin Northcutt got engaged, she knew that the Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Gardens was where she would say I do. On the day of the engagement, Caitlin, who goes by Cait, had just finished her shift at Doctors Care, a medical center in Columbia, and was headed home in a hurry. Her boyfriend of four years, Joshua Gomez, had been mysteriously busy all day allegedly playing a new video game, but Cait wasnt so sure. When she arrived home, she discovered she was right to be suspicious, as Joshua quickly covered her eyes and led her to the dining room. When she was allowed to see again, Cait saw on the table a home-cooked dinner, flickering candles and a ring box. Joshua had spent the day cooking, cleaning and fashioning a makeshift tablecloth out of the couples new red bed sheets. Now, trembling and tearing up, he had one

question: Marry me? I wasnt worried about her saying no, Joshua later said of his plan. I was just hoping it was the right moment and that it was the right set up. And of course, it was. The planning began immediately, with one decision already made: the venue. Since I was old enough to even understand about planning a wedding, Ive always wanted to get married at the (Riverbanks) Botanical Gardens, Cait

said. Thats my secret happy place. The couple prepared for over a year for their special day, scouring websites like Pinterest for Do It Yourself wedding crafts and hunting through antique stores for the perfect vintage decorations. When the sunny May day finally arrived, Cait seemed to have it all. The perfect guy, the perfect dress, and the perfect place. There was only one problem. The fountains, an important highlight of the gardens, werent working. I was in tears, Cait said. They told me there was a 95 percent chance the fountains were not going to work. Literally 30 minutes before the wedding, they came running and said that they were on. Cait cried again, but this time they were tears of relief. Now everything was ready. Accompanied down the aisle by her twin brother Austin, Cait looked like a beacon in white amid the colorful shrubs and greenery of the garden. The scenery

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complemented her delicate wildflower bouquet and the flower-shaped ruching at the bottom of her strapless, mermaidstyle dress. Mason jars with pink and yellow florets hung sweetly from the white folding chairs lining the aisle, lending the ceremony a lightly embellished, natural look, just as Cait had requested. I didnt want a lot of decorations for the ceremony, Cait said. I wanted the zoo to be my decoration. At the end of the aisle, Joshua awaited his bride, flanked by groomsmen sporting tan vests and royal blue bow ties on one side and bridesmaids in matching seersucker dresses on the other.

It was a lot of emotion, Joshua said of the moment he saw Cait in her dress. I was excited. I was happy. She looked gorgeous and I was ready to say I do. Instead of Wagners traditional Bridal Chorus, Cait walked to Everything, by Lifehouse. When she and Joshua sealed their vows with a kiss, the music swelled as their 100 guests clapped and cheered. Old perfume and medicine bottles dressed up simple burlap tablecloths. Tall perennial flowers sprouted from wooden picture frames to form unique centerpieces a first of its kind for Scott Jones of American Floral. A chalkboard drink menu advertised signature

cocktails, all named after country songs. For Cait: Barefoot Blue Jean Night, a mango rum concoction. For Joshua: How Country Feels, a straightforward Jack and Coke. Hand-made crochet lace lanterns lit the dance floor, where guests twirled and whirled the night away. For their first dance as a married couple, Cait and Joshua danced to God Gave Me You, by country crooner Blake Shelton. As they slowly turned alone on the floor for all to see, the two spoke of just how far theyd come. We made it, Cait whispered. For the rest of the night, disc jockey Dave Gilbert played mostly country mu-

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sic, but there was room for contemporary tunes as well. Even a Harlem Shake. Based on popular videos that feature a short excerpt from the song Harlem Shake by electronic musician Baauer, usually one person (in this case Caits charismatic brother Austin) begins by dancing alone while others appear oblivious. When the bass drops, the video cuts to the entire crowd doing a crazy, gyrating dance for the rest of the video. In the Gomez-Northcutt Shake, dance moves ranged from subtle to ridiculous, with hoola hoops and alligator hats used as props. Every time I watch it, I see someone else doing something crazy, Cait said with a laugh after playing it on her phone. Following a magical night of love and laughter, the newlyweds left the reception in a 1928 Ford Model A. Their honeymoon to the Dominican Republic, was a gift from Caits aunt and uncle.

On their trip they parasailed, swam with dolphins and went horseback riding. Now the two are back in Blythewood, ready to settle into their careers. Joshua is finishing his criminal justice degree at South University while Cait works at Moore Orthopedics. We believe a lot in each others dreams, said Cait. We always tell each other that anything in the world is ours. That its possible. In the future, Cait said she would like to run a pet resort, a dream that complements her and Joshuas love of animals. The pair already have three dogs and three cats - their four-legged children, as Cait likes to affectionately call them. And of course, there is always the company of the animals at the Riverbanks Zoo. Or a walk in the Botanical Gardens, where Cait and Joshuas married life first began to grow.

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The Mitchell House and Gardens

A One stop-shop for a beautiful wedding in the heart of Lexington
By: Emily Folsom Fernandez Photos provided by The Mitchell House

The Mitchell House and Gardens, run by Phyllis James, opened in 1992 and quickly became a venue of choice for brides not only from Richland and Lexington counties, but from Sumter, Kershaw, Newberry and Augusta. Located in the center of Lexington, it offers the charm and grace of a historic home, the versatile capabilities of a country club, and packages designed to fit any budget. As you approach the historic house you immediately envision small intimate weddings. Once inside, the rooms have the quaint details, hardwood floors, molding and fireplaces that you expect, but walls have been removed to give it a more open and grand feel. The original kitchen has been transformed into a large, full service bar. As you walk into the expansive backyard you see how weddings as large as 300 guests are possible. There is a huge covered pavilion, with a variety of lighting options, that can be used for a sit-down dinner or the

ceremony. A large lawn with an outdoor bar and a beautiful gazebo complete the grounds. Phyllis James laughs when she tells about a professor who used to insist upon the importance of five and seven year plans. She says that her success unfolded

more naturally. Using money given to her by her mother, and probably without realizing the enormity of the project she was undertaking, James, a single mother of two, dove headlong into the wedding industry when she bought the Mitch-

ell House. This endeavor turned out to be uniquely and perfectly suited to her skill set and background. James grew up in a colonial farmhouse, not unlike the one she runs now, surrounded by strong female figures. Her mother was the organist and wedding director for their church and her grandmother was widely known as the hostess-with-the mostest. She had early experiences flipping homes which instilled fearlessness about getting her hands dirty. All of these influences, plus the inherent drive that motivated her to earn her MBA, during a time when she had recently divorced and was taking care of two children, have contributed to her achievement. James along with her indentured servants, as she jokingly refers to her daughter and son, tore down wallpaper, painted, and re-plastered walls to get this home ready to be used as a venue. Nobody was more surprised by her quick success than James. After being open for only four weeks she ran a small advertisement and booked five events.

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She had never envisioned The Mitchell House becoming a site so specifically popular for weddings, but that is how it developed, almost immediately. Simultaneously her innovation and keen business sense kicked in. James saw that brides were overwhelmed by the large volume of expensive details juxtaposed with their small budgets. She was eager to offer a solution and responded by creating wedding packages which provided the majority of the key wedding services; catering, flowers, a wedding day

director, and even invitations, at a variety of price points. This concept was, not surprisingly, embraced by brides who were more than happy to give up the stress associated with finding and booking these vendors individually. Today these wedding packages include 28 different menus from which to choose and provide worksheets and strategically timed meetings that form the structure for a brides entire wedding planning process. Brides may come to The Mitchell House because they are

looking for a beautiful historic home for their wedding, but after their initial visit they will realize they have uncovered an anomalous wedding planning experience. Through her innovative approach to weddings and her tenacity, Phyllis James has created a successful business that provides brides with a one-stopshop for planning the perfect wedding. All of the most important details of the most important day of your life coordinated out of one beautiful historic home in Lexington, South Carolina.

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Whether looking to rent or buy for formal event, Brittons is proud to offer the finest in furnishing and me and womens clothing. Our motto is First Impressions are Lasting Impressions and wed love to help ensure your first impression is memorable.
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Every Moment. Every Detail.

Capture the spirit of historic Charleston and experience her grandeur complete with antique chandeliers, soaring ceilings, marble fireplaces and monumental windows. Beautiful wedding reception and banquet rooms for the most intimate celebration. Creative menu options. Expert catering executives to help you plan every detail. Honeymoon suites. Ample parking. We invite you to experience Charlestons grand hotel.

Beautiful Beginnings.

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Circus of Love
By: Rachel Haynie, Special to Carolina Bride Photos provided by Dave Gilbert & Katie Hart www.palmettoduo.com, special to Carolina Bride

Knowing, even before he asked her out, hed want his first date with Debbie Kamowski to be unforgettable, Matt Carroll invited the lithe, blonde nursing student to the circus. Id noticed billboards around town advertising that The Barnum and Bailey Circus was in town, and I wanted to take her somewhere fun, different, Matt recalled. As it turned out, the idea was more special than I could have anticipated. Shed never been to a circus before. Shes a Jersey girl I dont know; maybe going to the circus is not something you do in New Jersey, Matt speculated. I first saw her at a mutual friends birthday party in a Japanese restaurant where they prepare the food right in front of you. I knew I had to figure out a way to be seated next to her, and ended up having to win a game of rock, paper, scissors with a friend, said the successful Prudential real estate agent www.

ColumbiaSCHouses.com. He didnt wait long to ask her out. The two began seeing each other after the successful circus date until Debbie completed her baccalaureate degree in nursing. We dated over the summer before I had to relocate for the job, Debbie said. They sustained the relationship long-distance, only seeing each other some weekends and holidays un-

til, a year and a half later. Debbie came back to Columbia when she was hired at Palmetto Richlands Childrens Hospital. By January 2013, Matt was certain she was The One, and although the circus would be back in town in about a month, he didnt want to wait even that much longer to pop the question. We were going to be dressed in formal attire for the Carolina Sunshine Gala, an annual charity event, said Matt. I got my sister involved in the set up by having her call me just as we were getting close to the arena to say that my nephews were at a basketball tournament back home in Michigan and that they wanted to show their friends a picture of where the Gamecocks play. What I really wanted was to get her back to where our first date had been. Although Debbie kept saying theyd be late, I kept assuring her we had time. And I knew she was all about having our pictures taken while we were dressed up, so I promised we would - I had already arranged for someone to be

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there with a camera when we arrived, Matt said. So this is where it all started, right? Matt remarked, referring to their circus date. He was getting down on one knee, opening the velvet box he had hidden in his tuxedo jacket. By then Debbies hands were over her mouth. She figured out what was happening just as he added, Well, its just getting started...Will you marry me? Preoccupied with the Yes that would make them man and wife, the two floated through the charity event, their mental wheels already whirring about the life they would spend together - and setting a date for the big day. Debbie is Catholic, so we decided the wedding would be at St. Peters Catholic Church, Matt recalled. And we wanted the reception to be in a fancy place, but in a down to earth kind of way, Debbie said, so we chose Columbia Museum of Art. We blocked rooms for our out of town guests at the Marriott, so everything could be very close. We had family, friends, and members of the wedding party coming into town many on their first time to Columbia from as far away as Michigan, Oregon, Florida, Massachusetts, California, and Nebraska. For wedding activities beyond the citys most strategic block, guests were transported in Southern Valets 26 passenger bus or one of their shuttle vans. The rehearsal dinner was at Als Upstairs, the enduring Columbia restaurant that had become the couples favorite date-night spot during their courtship and engagement. Debbie might have worn a New York designer gown for her wedding, but she found the perfect one right here in Columbia. My sisters and I had gone into the city and talked to a few designers, but then when I was back in Columbia, on the recommendation of another bride, we went to Bella Vista and I found my dress! Bridesmaids dresses continued the weddings cosmopolitan black and white theme. Attendants were friends or relatives representing the various stages of life for both bride and groom.

Because during his college years at USC Matt had done some part-time work with Jack Brantley, the couple chose Aberdeen Catering of Camden. We wanted a cocktail hour, then a sitdown dinner, traditional where were from not done so often here in the South. The menu entre was crab cakes and beef tenderloin, Matt said. Our cake, very much like one Id seen at another wedding, was by Parkland Cakes in West Columbia, Debbie added. Sounds for the museum atrium cocktail hour were a continuation of the classical prelude, processional and recessional music heard across the street at St. Peters. Our guests raved about Charleston violinist Seth Gilliard who plays both classical music and his own classical takes on pop remixes. Table centerpieces were potted orchids, and guests were encouraged to take one home. The first flower Matt gave me was an orchid - for our first Valentines, only a few weeks after we met, Debbie recalled. Also on the tables were stuffed animals references to their first date when Matt got Debbie one as a souvenir. And like that first date, the toys were destined for a new history. Because I work at the Childrens Hospital, we wanted to share the joy of our day with the young patients there. Guests were asked to write a note to a child on the tag attached to each stuffed animal and, before the reception ended, a couple hundred toys were tossed into a little wagon and one of my co-workers took them back to the hospital for the patients to enjoy, Debbie explained. The newlyweds broke with tradition by delaying departure for their St. Lucia honeymoon. I needed to attend a work conference that conflicted with our honeymoon time, Debbie said. So we stayed at the Hilton the first few nights, went to brunch with our folks the morning after the wedding, got our thank you notes all written, and now we can really enjoy getting away to the island, Matt said. At press time, the blissful couple was packing for their first official trip as Mr. and Mrs. Carroll.

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SPRING VALLEY
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Wedding Weekend
A Columbia couple celebrates their love at Orangeburgs Buck Ridge Plantation

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By: Heather Dawkins Stalker, special to Carolina Bride Photos provided by Katie Hart & John Wrightenberry www.palmettoduo.com, special to Carolina Bride

Mary Waits wasnt looking for a boyfriend when she caught the eye of Justin Creech--a friend of her twin sisters roommate. I didnt want a boyfriend at all, but he hounded my sister and told her that I had to talk to him and that he wasnt going to give up, and he didnt, Mary recalls with a laugh. Justins persistence led, first, to a casual first date on a Sunday afternoon--We went to K-Mart to buy floats to go swimming at the pool and then went to Arbys, Mary saysand, eventually, to a wedding proposal on New Years Eve in Orlando, Florida, where the couple had gone to see the Gamecocks play in the Capitol One Bowl. Justin told me we were going to meet someone to sell them tickets to the game, Mary says. But when Mary and Justin got to the park where they were supposed to meet the buyer, instead of whipping out bowl tickets, Justin whipped out a diamond-studded engagement ring. He got down on his knee and said, Marry me, Mary says. Mary was thrilled, and she and Justin met up with friends in Orlando to cel-

ebrate both the New Year and their new engagement. Soon, Mary was planning a wedding, and she wanted it to be much like their engagement nighta celebration with friends and family. Im not a fairy tale girl. Im very laid back, says Mary. She wanted a wedding that would reflect that easy-going spiritnothing too fancy or expensive. Marys mom and older sister, Erica, whose wedding Mary had been a bridesmaid in as a Freshman in college, helped with the planning. At the Bridal Expo,

the ladies saw an exhibit for Buck Ridge Plantation. Mary at first ruled the venue out because it was in Orangeburg, but she decided to check it out anyway and fell in love with the woodsy atmospherewhich was perfect for the kind of day she envisioned. The venue was so beautiful that we saved money on decorations, she says. And the fact that it was a 45-minute drive from Columbia turned out to be a plus, as many family and friends chose to stay the weekend there, giving the event the feel of a destination wedding. Friday nights rehearsal dinner was followed by a gathering at a large fire pit, where guests shared drinks and conversation late into the night. Saturday morning held golf for the guys and a bridal brunch for the girls, after which there was plenty of time to get ready for the wedding. Justin and Mary were joined in marriage in a very brief but sweet ceremony beside the Buck Ridge pond at 6:00. Though she had been feeling a little sick that afternoon and there had been rain all day, Mary says both the weather and her health transformed just in time for her to walk down the aisle. I was

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feeling a little dizzy and had the wedding director take my heels off, so I walked down the aisle barefoot, she says. But when I got there and saw Justin, I felt great from that moment on. Mary was escorted by her father, Mike Waits, who jokingly asked, Are you ready for this? I told him Id never been so sure in my life, Mary says. Standing beside the couple as witnesses werenearly 200 of their closest friends and relatives. Mary had chosen coral and khaki as the colors for the day, and each bridesmaid wore a unique coral dress they had chosen themselves. I had girls of all shapes and sizes who had been my friends forever, and I couldnt pick one dress that would fit them all, she says. So I told them to go and pick a dress in some shade of coral and I gave them robins egg-blue jewelry to wear. The result was a mix of dresses ranging from Davids Bridal creations to a dress handmade by a bridesmaids grandmother. I didnt want the girls to have to spend hundreds of dollars on a bridesmaids dress they would never wear again, Mary says, noting that her twin sister wore a chiffon dress in Robins egg blue she had found on a mannequin at Wet Seal for $15. She was my something blue, Mary says. Mary also kept it simple with the guys, who wore khaki linen pants and vests with white shirts with the sleeves rolled up to their elbows. They had boutonnieres of twigs and berries--including one with a Lego man on it for the ring bearerand wore ties they had picked out through a sports-style draft. Theyre all big sports fans, so everything with them is a draft, Mary laughs. We had picked out a variety of ties from classic to hideous and they picked one draft style! Mary had chosen her own dress while on a trip to Charleston with friends. I loved it, she says. It had a little bit of everythinglace, sequins, beads, even feathers. But in keeping with the laidback tone of her big day, Mary changed out of the heavy gown for the reception and into a short summer dress so she could enjoy the night. And the night turned out exactly as

Mary and Justin had wanted it. We didnt want a long ceremony, so we didnt say the traditional vows, she says. Instead, the couple wrote vows to each other and had them delivered to each other the day of the ceremony. They were personal and funny and meaningful, she says, recalling how Justin, who hates tomatoes, vowed to always give her the tomatoes from his plate and also to ask for permission before playing video games. Instead of focusing on the vows that night, the couple focused on thanking family and friends for their love and support with a fun evening of dinner and dancing. Buck Ridge catering did not disappointfilling the party with platters of shrimp and grits, bacon-wrapped scallops, crab-stuffed mushrooms, and other delectable dishes. Parkland Cakes, run by close friends of the happy couple, provided a three-tiered cake and scrumptious cupcakes in fun flavors like red velvet, amaretto, lemon, and strawberry. Justin and Mary cut the cake together using Marys fathers sword he had received when he retired from the United States Marine Corps. I wanted to represent that part of my family history in the celebration, Mary says. DJ Lex, another friend of the couple, played music for both the ceremony and reception. We went non-traditional with the music, Mary says, noting that the bridesmaids came down the aisle to the theme from the retired sitcom The Golden Girls. Also unique and fun were the favors brown lunch bags full of boiled peanuts from Justins family business, the Cayce Farmers Market. I stamped them with our new address so everyone would have that, Mary says. The finale of the night was a ten-minute fireworks show complete with a cannon firing as the couple left the party. They didnt leave for long, though, coming back out to hang out with everyone once more at the Buck Ridge fire pit. Everything was perfect, Mary says. It was the celebration we both really wanted.

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Belks Fine China:

By: LaKisha Greene

Find the perfect set

2. Choose a pattern
Choose a timeless pattern or design that will not be considered dated in a few years time. Fine china can be passed down to each generation as an heirloom. Since not all families have had china passed down to them, one can create this legacy by buying a set to hand down with at least six to eight place settings. Fine china can be a valuable investment for a family to have in the home. Antique and vintage china can be valued by an appraiser or an antique dealer to get a good idea of the sets value. When purchasing modern fine china sets it is important to do research on which brands and styles appreciate in value because not all brands are created equal. can choose one or more sets to match the dcor in the dining room. Many people consider china to be an art form in itself, especially sets with intricate and elegant embellishments. Not only can china serve a functional purpose, one can also choose to display a fine china set in a china cabinet or display case with glass panels. Visit Belk for a wide variety of fine china for any occasion. Ask about the interest free table top plan. All china and crystal put on this plan will be interest free for 1 year, which is a great savings, when a Belk card is opened! See store associate for more details.

Fine China is an important part of the bridal registry but searching for it can be tricky. Finding quality china at a great price and also knowing which occasions to use it for are just a few of the questions many brides-to-be have. It is important to understand the difference between porcelain and bone china so that you will know which would best suit your taste. Porcelain has an ivory color and consists of a mixture of kaolin, flint and feldspar. Bone china has a pure white color and at least 50% animal bone ash. Amanda Cato, Bridal Registry Specialist at Belk was nice enough to share her tips for buying fine china. Her first piece of advice, Find the most durable pieces for your china collection. Most fine china today is dishwasher friendly, and china without a platinum band is microwave friendly as well!

3. Add variety
Mix and match your fine china sets to create a nice variety of style or color. When purchasing fine china be sure to purchase timeless variety pieces that will complement each other. While many makers are pushing for more casual styles, you may to have more than one fine china set to add visual appeal to many types of occasions. For example, a buyer can buy a set for the fall or spring with different color schemes to complement the homes decor at that time of year.

1. Appropriate occasions
Having proper settings can be useful for business dinners when one wants to create a good impression. Fine china can be used for family occasions or formal affairs to make the dinner more special. China can be matched with flatware and glass stemware to create a formal setting for the holidays. Fine china can add a touch of class to a table and it can warm the hearts of your guests to know that they are special enough for the host to break out the fine china.

4. Display china
Fine china can also be enjoyed for its mere aesthetic qualities. China comes in many different styles, shapes, and colors, so an individual

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The finest in formalwear with the personal service you expect. Weddings and Formal Events Sales and Rentals

1333 Main Street | Columbia, SC 29201 803-252-6714 | grangerowings.com

Let Moseleys help you design the perfect engagement ring

By: Emily Folsom Fernandez Photos provided by: Moseleys Diamond Showcase

In 1977 Larry Moseley opened Moseleys Diamond Showcase, a trusted jewelry store that has since expanded to two locations. Typically business owners have difficulty letting go and allowing the next generation to come in and make changes. Clearly Larry Moseley is not typical because after years of running his successful stores he eventually turned over the reins to his two sons, John (36), and Jeremy (31). Since then he has eagerly entrusted them with the freedom to make large changes to the business in order to stay in front of the newest trends in the industry. Custom designed engagement rings were a trend that John and Jeremy Moseley immediately recognized to be important to their industry. Custom design fits perfectly with their customer service centric business model, as it offers couples the chance to be involved in the design of one of the most important pieces of jewelry they will ever buy. Also it was at the forefront of technology trends which

the brothers could foresee would mean a quick adoption by younger generations. In order to jump in they would have to purchase the software and hire capable designers who could attend courses in the subject matter. They presented the idea to their father, who only had two questions: Have you researched it? and most importantly Do you believe in it? When the brothers responded with whole-hearted affirmations he enthusiastically agreed to the investment. They chose Kyle Peterson, a 23 year old whose patience is well beyond his years, to become their in-house expert. Kyle attended a number of classes and seminars that taught him how to use the computer animated design program. This newly acquired skill combined with Kyles ability to really listen to his clientele makes him a perfect jewelry designer. So perfect in fact that the Moseleys ended up hiring his twin brother as well. With the trained designers on staff, and the popularity of custom jewelry design quickly growing, the Moseleys are now the leaders on a

path that is shaping the future of the jewelry industry. The Moseleys were able to quickly eliminate misconceptions that custom design is more expensive and that the turnaround time is too long. They have built their loyal customer base by being true partners. There is no hard-sell inside their stores. It is evident after talking to them for even a few minutes that the Moseleys want to work with their customers, within their pre-determined budgets, to find or design the perfect engagement ring. Not only is their nature more inclined in this direction, but the brothers also learned, from their fathers example, that the endurance of their business was inextricably linked to the strength of their customer relationships. When men walk into their store, unsure of where to start the process of purchasing an engagement ring, the Moseleys see an opportunity to start a relationship with a lifelong customer. They spend hours with customers, agonizing over the stone(s), the setting, the metal, and the overall style. While educat-

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ing their customers on the process, and listening as their customers describe what they want, a trust is formed that will bring those same men, and their wives and children back for every event that they want to commemorate with a beautiful piece of jewelry. Births, graduations, and anniversary celebrations will all start with a trip to Moseleys. Along with their commitment to strong customer service, the brothers are also fueled by a true passion for jewelry design. Laughing to himself, Jeremy admits that the night before he stayed awake until 1:45 a.m. working on an engagement ring he is designing, Thankfully my wife is still at the beach! he says. There are few who would be up that late and at work the next day with his energy and enthusiasm. But it is understandable; the custom designed engagement ring has brought renewed excitement and sentimentality to a traditional piece of jewelry. It gives the prospective fianc the chance to contribute to the design and to create the exact ring he knows she wants. The personalization of custom design jewelry adds a special new dimension to a ring that will be worn everyday for the rest of her life. Moseleys Diamond Showcase is the only jewelry store in Columbia featuring its very own in-house designer dedicated only to custom jewelry design. Custom jewelry design is not limited to engagement rings. Please visit either of their two locations: 1632 Broad River Road in Columbia or 5368 Sunset Blvd in Lexington or their website www. moseleydiamond.com.

Personalized Gifts for All Occasions

Monday Friday: 10AM 5:30PM Saturday: 10AM 3PM 1204 Main Street Near Gervais

803-661-7651
www.UptownSC.com

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Results vary and cannot be guaranteed.

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Tailor-Made Weddings
By: Laurie Devore Special to Carolina Bride

At the brand new Stone River in downtown Columbia, General Manager Jay Beneventano wants you to know that no two events are ever the same. Thats by design. In addition to hosting various signature events throughout the week, Stone River is gearing up to host Columbias most personalized weddings. Claiming Columbias best view and a host of relationships with local vendors, Stone River will get you the wedding youve always imagined without breaking your budget. When a new bride comes through the door at Stone River, she sits down to meet with Jay and begins building her own wedding package. A wedding planner is encouraged to attend, but a brides needs are always top priority with Jay and crew. With us, there is never a you

have the four walls and the roof and we are done with you, Jay says. The mission at Stone River is to give each bride exactly what she wants: whether she chooses to tap into everything Stone River has to offer, or prefers to use her own outside vendors. If someone comes to six weddings here, we want them to have a different experience every time, Jay explains. With the flexibility and connections to cater to every bride, its unlikely youll have an impossible request at Stone River. When asked about Stone Rivers new location overlooking the Congaree, GM Jay was clear: What brought us to this venue was the view. Its not hard to see why. Stone River is the only venue in town with a view of both the natural beauty of the river and the modern downtown skyline. The back wall is lined with floor-to-ceiling windows, and that isnt all Stone River is doing to ac-

cent their backdrop. With a sweeping lawn already in place and renovations to the building still under way, Jay promises that a 1500 square foot outdoor pavilion will give brides even more options for where they will say I do. The exterior of the building will have creek stone brought in to highlight the River Walk. The river theme will continue into the huge event space inside where a creek stone fireplace will be the focal point. The look is rustic but upscale, complete with hardwood floors. All of this, Jay says, leaves the rest of the building as a blank slate for brides-to-be to design their own look. Continuing into the kitchen you will find fifteen hundred square feet fully furnished and accessible to any wedding caterer. This allows for food options that are cleaner and fresher. Of course, you may be looking for Stone River to help you out with your food. No problem!

36

at the New Stone River

The in-house catering partner, John Militello, owns Lets Cook in downtown Columbia, and has been in the business for over thirty years. Stone Rivers array of events throughout the week provides brides with another advantage. Because of established in-house relationships with vendors all over town, Stone River is able to offer discounts on everything from linens to napkins, glassware to personalized swag. The options a bride can include in her package dont stop there. No charge premarital counseling? You got it. A fully functioning AV system and audio engineer to showcase all of the brides most embarrassing pictures? No problem! If youre worried about the bar, theyve got that covered as well. Not only does Stone River offer a small bridal suite with bar for freshening up before the reception, but as Jay puts it, We already have our liquor license and can offer our beverage service for a discounted price so when crazy Aunt JoJo wants to get in the sauce deep, we can offer that. The opportunity to build tailor-made events clearly thrills the staff at Stone River. According to Jay, We are excited to create a custom event every time. No two weddings will be the same. After some thought, however, he says, Unless the same bride gets married twice. And we do discounts for the second wedding. (Unfortunately, I think he was joking, ladies.) If you are interested in seeing Stone River for yourself, walkthroughs are available throughout July and Stone River officially opens its doors on August third with a launch festival. It is a community outreach festival showcasing local artists and the new event venue. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 day of event, with proceeds going to the Chris Connor foundation. In addition, Stone River will offer public events throughout the week to give a full feel of all their offerings. Check out lunch served Mondays through Fridays and Signature Events Monday through Wednesday. Signature events include a buffet and live music on Monday (half off for first responders, teachers, and pastors), more live music on Tuesday with local artist exhibitions, and a Wednesday night out where they hope to bring in various chefs from your favorite Columbia restaurants. Look out for wine and beer tastings, with local musicians and artists constantly filtering in and out. For more information about weddings, Jay is always around to talk to brides-tobe. Give him a call at (803) 727-8047 or an email at jay@stonerivercolumbia. com. Stone River can be found online at stonerivercolumbia.com or on Facebook. 37

Events by Geoffrey

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By: LaKisha Greene, special to Carolina Bride Photos provided by Geoffrey Sandifer, special to Carolina Bride

Geoffrey Sandifer is a native of Columbia, SC and always had an interest in food. He started in culinary arts when he was in high school and received a culinary degree in 2000 from Johnson & Wales University. Later, he attended the University of South Carolina to receive his Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management and graduated in 2003. He later began working as an Executive Chef for different restaurants in the Vista and worked as a consultant for aspiring restaurateurs. In 2008, he was hired by Jenny Sanford to be the chef at the Governors Mansion. Thats where Geoffreys passion for catering weddings began to grow. Many people were interested in having the Governors chef cater their wedding. His first wedding was at the Lace House, a premier wedding venue in Columbia, SC. Geoffrey began to build his clientele from hosting events and weddings at the Lace House for Jenny Sanford. As his interest in catering grew, he partnered with another catering

company while still at the Governors Mansion. In 2012, Geoffrey made one of the most important decisions of his career, to become a full time event caterer due to the increasing demand for his business. Geoffreys passion for food and people is evident, Food is the most important part of the wedding, aside from the venue. The brides main concern is finding the perfect venue and catering for the wedding and for the many events leading up to it. Events by Geoffrey offer a personalized menu tailored for the bride and groom. Chef Geoff s niche is being able to take a high end wedding or a casual wedding and still being able to create the best menu for the bride and grooms budget while adding a unique twist to reflect the tradition and values of the couple. He enjoys meeting with the family to incorporate the family traditions and favorite dishes to create a menu that reflects the bride and grooms union. Chef Geoff is obviously passionate about food and creating a lasting memory for his clients.

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803.920.3843

Relax and Leave the details to Us

Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/
We will take care of all your Wedding Needs. Bridal Luncheon, Rehearsal Dinner, Wedding Reception, & Guest Accommodations
Reduce stress and reserve your special date with us today.

Harbison

Relax~ Rejuvenate~ Replenish

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For the Souths Most Discerning Brides

A N T I Q U E S J E W E L RY P O R C E L A I N L I N E N S G I F T S 2 7 5 4 D E V I N E S T. SOUTH CAROLINA

(8 0 3 ) 2 5 4 - 0 7 7 2 | W W W. N O N E S U C H LT D.C O M

434 Columbiana Drive, Columbia, South Carolina 29212 803-407-6640 or 877-STAY-HGI www.columbiaharbison.stayhgi.com
Everything. Right where you need it.

Catering Considerations
food for thought
Whos not a fan of food? It can be one of the most important aspects of your wedding, and finding a caterer should not be taken lightly. Dont wait to begin your search; start early and keep in mind some of these factors once youve narrowed your choices: Do they specialize in a particular type of food? (especially important for theme weddings) Are there sample menus that you can view? Is it possible to do a tasting? What are average price ranges? And what do those prices include? Who specifically will be working at your wedding? What will they be wearing? How many hours will they be contracted for? What is the level of their involvement? Do they cue the cake cutting, etc.? Will your main contact be working any other weddings/events on the same day? What time do they arrive/how long will they stay? Is clean-up included in your price? Where is the food prepared? What type of deposit is required? When do you need to provide a final head count? Can you be given a list of references?

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Courtyard by Marriott Downtown at USC | 630 Assembly St. Columbia, SC 29201 803-726-1603

CRICKET NEWMAN
By: Emily Folsom Fernandez Photos provided by Gordon Humphries, special to Carolina Bride

The art of draping with

Cricket Newman is an event designer in Columbia who can handle every creative detail for your wedding. She will make sure that the tea lights surrounding your cake are strategically positioned in order to optimize the glow and color. She will ensure that the place cards for your guests are written with a calligraphy that perfectly accentuates the linen paper. In a nutshell she will handle all of the gorgeous details that you appreciate in magazines and at your friends weddings but that, if you are like me, leave you completely befuddled. When she agreed to speak with me Newman said that she wanted to focus on draping. I doubted that there would be enough on the subject matter to discuss but within five minutes of talking to her I realized I was wrong. Designers tend to articulate the details of their talent with an emotion and precision that can help someone, even someone as inartistic as I am, imagine the beautiful scene that they are describing.

Newman explains that draping can bring a fresh look to venues by adding drama and by establishing a signature color for a wedding. Custom drapes the color of the brides bouquet, threaded through a huge chandelier, highlight a beautiful light fixture and improve the visual continuity of the event. In one venue she even created a unique exit for the bride and groom by draping the back stairwell with strands of light. She describes the stark entrances and unattractive hallways that are common to wedding venues and easily hidden under beautiful drapery. Fireplaces or unsightly audio visual equipment should no longer dissuade brides-to-be from a particular venue. Any displeasing elements can be masked with draping. Draping can also create spaces that do not already exist. Newman frequently uses her gorgeous drapes in the popular 701 Whaley to separate a wedding receptions cocktail hour from the dinner space. She has used the artistic technique in other venues to create an entrance when there is not one. Newman only works with custom

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draping and she is well educated about the safety guidelines surrounding the art-form. She cautions brides to hire someone who knows what they are doing, because the dangers surrounding the work of a non-professional are real and tightly regulated by the fire marshal. Photos provided by Gordon Humphries are from the wedding of Caroline and Trey Jones, June 2, 2012. Please visit cricketnewmandesigns.com to learn more about this talented, local designer.

Destination Weddings
SPECIAL WEDDINGS
A destination wedding is a wedding held at a location other than where you live. There are a lot of reasons why a couple might decide to have a destination wedding. One of the most common is to have this important event in one of the leading romantic places on earth. Why restrict yourself to venues close to home when there are countless other possibilities open to you? For example, you could exchange vows in the sand next to the ocean on a Caribbean island, on a cliff overlooking the sea at a Mexican resort, beside a waterfall in Hawaii, on a cruise ship at sea, in a centuries old church in a medieval European village, in a beautiful garden next to a rose arbor on an island resort, or standing beneath palm trees in a South Seas paradise. The possibilities are endless and whatever your dream might be, it can happen. 44 of daily life. The memories you create in your special location will last a lifetime. And you can revisit that distinctive place that means so much to the two of you to celebrate your special anniversaries again and again.

GETTING HELP
A travel agent is your best resource for helping you select your wedding location and guiding you through all the decisions that must be made. An agent who specializes in destination weddings and honeymoons will have a wealth of information, advice and support to help you every step of the way. Their fees are paid by the vendors so their help and expertise is free to you and sometimes they can get exclusive offers and amenities not ordinarily available. When your wedding day arrives, the local resort staff will take care of all the arrangements and insure that everything goes smoothly, letting you relax and enjoy your special day with no concerns for the details or the procedures.

Destination Weddings Cost Less than Traditional Weddings

Surprisingly, a destination wedding can actually save money. Many resorts offer complimentary basic wedding packages so you pay only for your honeymoon. If you have guests who want to attend they usually pay their own way.

Less time to Stress and More Time to Savor the Moment

A travel agent can help you with all the details, from planning your wedding to helping with local requirements such as blood tests or establishing residency. They can explain all the options for caterers, florists, photographers and other suppliers so there is less for you to do in this busy time.

WHY HAVE A DESTINATION WEDDING?

A Unique and Memorable Experience A destination wedding provides a memorable out-of-the ordinary setting that is truly removed from the stresses

Eileen Nason, CTC Destination Wedding Specialist, Travel Leaders of Columbia

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Call for booking 803.240.7009

Getting Married?
Some important organizations and people to notify:
State Tax Authorities Postal Service Public Assistance Office Veterans Administration Passport Office Department of Motor Vehicles Credit Card Companies Financial Institutions (Banks, Investment Plans) Utility Providers Automobile Lenders Insurance Companies (Health, Life, Property, Automobile) Employer Healthcare Providers Professional Organizations Social Organizations Schools (Alma Mater) Magazine Subscription Services Social Security Administration Internal Revenue Service

Perfect Location for an Unforgettable Day

The Windermere Club

The Windermere Club is Perfect for Intimate Weddings, Wedding Receptions, Corporate Functions, & Personal Celebrations Full-service, On-site Catering Facility Gorgeous Views of Lake Windermere Provide a Unique Setting for Your Special Event
Book Your Winter Event (Jan-Mar) by Nov 30, 2013 and receive $200 off Venue Rentals. Christmas Party Special Discounts- Book By September 30, 2013
Call (803)786-6088 for more information OR to arrange a tour with our Events Coordinator.

www.windermereclubsc.com

Unique indoor, outdoor and garden venues for ceremonies, receptions and rehearsal dinners. (803) 748-4144 316 Senate Street, Columbia duprecatering.com

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Wedding Album

Wedding
Album
Tiesha Gaines Photographer: Anna Guzman, special to Carolina Bride

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Tiesha Gaines Photographer: Anna Guzman, special to Carolina Bride

Wedding Album

Jessica Woods Photographer: Calico Photography, special to Carolina Bride

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Catherine Hunsinger Photo copyright 2013, Adrienne Daniels, special to Carolina Bride

Wedding Album

Catherine Hunsinger Photo copyright 2013, Adrienne Daniels, special to Carolina Bride

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Christy Fussell & LamarCooke Photo by Dave Gilbert & Katie Hart - www.palmettoduo.com, special to Carolina Bride

Dana Buchner & Matt Little Photo by Dave Gilbert & Katie Hart - www.palmettoduo.com, special to Carolina Bride

Obtaining a Marriage License in

South Carolina

Mitchell House and Gardens

An Elegant Venue for your Wedding, Reception, Social or Business Event
Some dates still available for 2013

Both the bride and groom-to-be must apply together at a South Carolina County Courthouse Marriage License Bureau. Most courthouses are open from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Fees vary by county location, but only cash will be accepted. A drivers license and Social Security number are required; a birth certificate is not; nor is a blood test or a physical obligatory. You do not have to be a resident of South Carolina, or even of the United States, to marry in South Carolina. Once you have applied, there is a 24-hour waiting period before you can pick up your license. Your marriage license is good in any South Carolina county, regardless of which South Carolina County Courthouse it was obtained. Register of Deeds (Marriage License) in S.C. (803) 576-1963 or (803) 576-1992.

Call today, mention this ad and receive 5% discount on your menu. themitchellhouseandgardens.com

803.359.5325

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The price of your celebration announcement is determined by the measurement of the text plus the photo size you choose, not the number of words in the announcement. Color is an additional $40 on any package.
Rates are: Text and/or photo totaling 3-5.75 column inches: $30/inch Text and/or photo totaling 6-9.75 column inches: $25/inch Text and/or photo totaling 10-17.75 column inches: $24/inch Text and/or photo totaling 18 column inches and up: $21/inch All announcements are featured online at www.thestate.com/weddings: $30 Proofs and pricing will be e-mailed to you. Special photo sizes are available upon request.
Announcements may be brought to the newspaper office, 1401 Shop Road, mailed to: The State Media Company, ATTN: Celebrations Desk PO Box 1333, Columbia, SC 29202 or emailed to weddings@thestate.com Office hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. We are closed on Saturday and Sunday. Contact Celebrations Desk Phone: 803-771-8431 Fax: 803-771-8611 Email: weddings@thestate.com

tioennts lebcreqm Coeu Ann n

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Sample price for the Premier Package =$418.50

Premier Package

Sample price for Deluxe Package = $242.50

Deluxe Package

Sample price for Standard Package = $217.50

Standard Package

Basic Package
Sample price for Basic Package = $260

Basic Package
Sample price for Basic Package = $180
Proofs and quotes A proof of your announcement will be sent to the email address provided. We do our best to provide proofs and final pricing as quickly as possible upon receipt of your photo and text. All corrections must be made by noon on Wednesday before publication. If we receive no corrections from you by the deadline, we will consider your announcement approved. Please read your proofs carefully. We do not run corrections on approved announcements under any circumstances. The State reserves the right to edit announcements for grammar and style. Payment must be received by 10 a.m. Wednesday prior to publication. Cash, check, Visa, Mastercard and Discover are accepted. Releases must be received by 5 p.m. or the announcement will not run. Deadline for publication is 3 p.m. the Monday before the desired date of publication and online posting. PRESS PLATES Plates must be ordered by Monday before the announcement runs. $20 each. ADDITIONALCOPIES Additional copies of the newspaper - $5 for a set of 10. Pre-ordering is encouraged as some days can sell-out. Copies will be held for 3 weeks and can be picke dup in the lobby. OTHER CELEBRATIONS Have a friend or family member celebrating a birthday? Surprise your loved one with a unique birthday ad for as little as $64. Deadlines vary. Please call 803-771-8431 for details.

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Sample price for Deluxe Package = $294

DELUXE Package

Guidelines for publication And posting on www.thestate.com

1. Celebration announcements must be received at The State Media Company by 3 p.m. the Monday before the desired date of publication and online posting. (For information to be published the Sunday following a holiday, the announcement should be in our office no later than 10 days before publication.) 2. Photographers who do not have a blanket release on file with The State should sign below. If a signature cannot be obtained, be sure to include the photographers name and telephone number. The State will return celebrations photos only if they are accompanied by a stamped (two first class stamps), self-addressed envelope when presented for publication. The State is not responsible for loss of or damage to photographs under any circumstances. Text (Microsoft Word document) and photos (.jpg) may be e-mailed to weddings@ thestate.com. 3. Announcements should be typed or clearly block-printed. The State cannot accept responsibility for, and will not run corrections on information that is illegible or incomplete. The State reserves the right to edit announcements for grammar and style. 4. Announcements may be brought to the newspaper office, 1401 Shop Road, mailed to The State Media Company, ATTN: Celebrations Desk, PO Box 1333, Columbia, SC 29202, or e-mailed to weddings@thestate.com. Payment and the release must be received by 5 p.m. Tuesday prior to publication. Cash, check, Visa, Mastercard and Discover are accepted. The following completed and signed form must be received prior to publication. 803.771.8431, fax 803.771.8611.

I, (the person placing the announcement), certify that the information submitted for publication and online posting is true, not defamatory, does not invade the privacy of any person and does not infringe any copyright. I agree to indemnify and hold harmless The State Media Company, its employees and agents, from and against all claims and expenses (including attorney fees and expenses) arising out of the publication of material supplied by me for the publication.
Signature ________________________________________________________________ Date______________________________ Printed Name ________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ E-mail address where a proof may be sent _________________________________________________________________________ Home Phone Number ___________________________ Cell Number _________________________________________________ If we are not able to reach you at the above numbers, your announcement will not run. By submitting material for publication as a celebrations announcement, I, for myself and others identified in the material submitted for publication, consent to the republication of the announcement in promotional materials without compensation.

CELEBRATIONS

Photographer, , as the owner of the copyright in a photograph submitted for publication in The State Media Company, hereby grants to the The State Media Company, a limited license to publish the photograph in The State and post online at www.thestate.com without cost or photographers credit. If the photograph is republished in promotional material for bridal announcements, photographer grants to The State Media Company, a license to publish the photograph with credit given to the photographer in the promotional material.
Photographers Signature ___________________________________________________ Date______________________________ Photographers Phone Number __________________________________________________________________________________ Photographers Address ________________________________________________________________________________________
Please only include information you wish to be published.

PhotoGRAPHER'S Release

City/State of wedding _________________________________________________________________________________________

54

Bride /Bride-elects full name ___________________________________________________ of _____________________ City/State Bridegroom /Bridegroom-elects full name _________________________________________ of _____________________ City/State Were married/Will be married _________________________________________________ at ______________________________
Date of wedding Place of wedding

The ___________________________________________ceremony was/will be performed by _______________________________

Time of wedding Full Name and title of officiating clergy

Checklist
On your big day, leave as little as possible to memory and the last-minute scramble. Set aside your essentials the week before so that all you have to do is grab-and-go. Make a list of those things you will need to add at the last minute. Here are some essentials for any well-packed Carolina bride:

Wedding Day

Rent Live Plants for Your Special Day

Large palms, Ferns, Peacelillies, Ficus Trees with tiny white lights, and Topiaries. Greenery Packages starting at: Churches $195 Receptions $295

Plant Express Rentals

For reservations, ideas and suggestions call Jim Pope 803.252.3999 www.plantexp.com

Delivery & Setup Included

Hair and makeup Makeup (foundation, blush, lip color, mascara, eye powder, lip and eye liners, powder) Makeup brushes Compact mirror Hairbrush Hairdryer Curlers, curling iron Hairspray, mousse, gel Hair pieces and hair pins Deodorant/antiperspirant Baby powder Eyedrops Cotton swabs Ibuprophen/pain reliever of choice Bottle of water Digital camera Clear nail polish Nail file Mouthwash Breath mints Tissues Panty hose (2 pairs) Wedding dress Shoes Veil/Headpieces Necklace, earrings, bracelet Bridal lingerie Grooms ring
55

Recept ion Venues in t he Columbia Area

403 North Lake 403 North Lake Drive, Lexington Historic home with 1.5 acres of English gardens Contact: Marcie and Rodney Huber www.403northlake.com 803-808-2992 701 Whaley 701 Whaley Street, Columbia Flexible space available for large and small events Contact: Tom Chinn www.701whaley.com 803-771-0101 Al's Upstairs 300 Meeting Street, West Columbia 4 rooms with adjacent courtyard Contact: Clair Anders www.alsupstairsitalian.com 803-920-9406 Ariel's Special Events 1734 Mobile Ave., West Columbia Banquet hall
Contact: Event Manager w ww.buckridge.com 803-531-8408 Contact: Kelley Newman www.arielsspecialevents.com 803-936-0505

Buck Ridge Plantation 231 Gundog Trail, Neeses Banquet hall, covered veranda, gazebo Capital City Club 1201 Main Street, 25th Floor, Capitol Center Columbia SC 29201 Ballroom Contact: Pamela Richards w ww.capitalcolumbia.com (803) 256-2000 City Art 1224 Lincoln Street, Columbia Art Gallery
Contact: Wendy Wells www.cityartonline.com 803-252-3613

Clarion Hotel Downtown 1615 Gervais Street, Columbia Ballroom and smaller banquet rooms available Contact: Janice Jamison-Blair www.clarionhotelcolumbia.com 803-771-8711 Columbia Conference Center 169 Laurelhurst Ave., Columbia Conference center Contact: Martha Reid www.columbiameetings.com 803-772-9811 Columbia Country Club 135 Columbia Club Drive, Blythewood Ballroom and patio
Contact: Sharon Everett www.columbiacountryclub.com 803-754-8100

Columbia Museum of Art 1515 Main Street, Columbia Museum, lobby, atrium, conference room, terrace and exterior patio
Contact: Special Events Office www.columbiamuseum.org 803-343-2212 Contact: Sheila Hall www.corleymillhouse.com 803-957-1818

Corley Mill House and Garden 221 Corley Mill Road, Lexington Home with garden space Courtyard Columbia Downtown at USC 630 Assembly Street, Columbia Banquet space Contact: Event Manager www.marriott.com 803-726-1603 Edventure Children's Museum 211 Gervais Street, Columbia museum, outdoor terrace, galleries Contact: tdozier@edventure.org www.edventure.org 803-779-3100 Embassy Suites Hotel 211 Gervais Street, Columbia Ballroom
Contact: Event Manager columbiagreystone.embassysuites.com 803-252-8700

Gibson Commons 140 Gibson Road, Suite C, Lexington Ballroom & outdoor gazebo Contact: Amanda Kamnmer www.gibsoncommons.com 803-358-7122 Hanlee Hall (Kendall's Katering) 6230 St. Andrews Road, Columbia House
Contact: Event Manager www.kendallskatering.com 803-731-4445

Hilton Garden Inn 434 Columbiana Drive, Columbia Ballroom

Contact: Event Manager www.hiltongardeninn.com 803-407-6640 Contact: Amy Kinard www.historiccolumbia.org 803-252-7742, ext. 22

Historic Columbia Foundation-Hampton Preston 1615 Blanding Street, Columbia Mansion and gardens Historic Columbia Foundation-Robert Mills 1616 Blanding Street, Columbia House and park Contact: Amy Kinard www.historiccolumbia.org 803-252-7742, ext. 22 Historic Columbia Foundation-Seibels 1601 Richland Street, Columbia House and garden
Contact: Amy Kinard www.historiccolumbia.org 803-252-7742, ext. 22

56

Historic Columbia Foundation-The Big Apple 1000 Hampton Street, Columbia Banquet hall
Contact: Amy Kinard www.historiccolumbia.org 803-252-7742, ext. 22

Historic Lace House at the Governor's Mansion 800 Richland Street, Columbia Historic home with garden area at the Governor's Mansion Complex Contact: Margaret Farish www.lacehouse.sc.gov 803-737-2235

This is just a sampling of diverse wedding and reception locations available in the Midlands. If you have a location that you would like to include in future publications, please contact CarolinaBride@thestate.com.

House of Frames and Painting Gallery 2828 Devine Street, Columbia Art Gallery Contact: Tensia Cassinetti www.hofpgallery.com 803-799-7405 Leaside 100 East Exchange Pl, Columbia Ballroom, Florida room and secluded patio
Contact: Kristy Polk www.thesouthernway.com 803-783-9136

Inn at USC 1619 Pendleton Street, Columbia Elegant boutique hotel located on historic USC campus Contact: Ashley Foster www.innatusc.com 803-231-3606 Lynlee Hall 1140 Bush River Road, Columbia Banquet hall Contact: info@lynleehall.com www.lynleehall.com 803-551-5842 Magnolia House of Lexington 220 West Main Street, Lexington Historic home with garden area Contact: Event Manager www.magnoliahouseoflexington.com 803-359-5001 Marriot, Downtown 1200 Hampton Street, Columbia Two ballrooms, tremendous 2 story atrium
Contact: Director of Sales www.marriott.com 803-771-7000

Millstone at Adam's Pond 5301 Bluff Road, Columbia Home with tentable areas, covered back porches, dining rooms
Contact: Kristy Polk www.thesouthernway.com 803-783-1061

Mitchell House and Gardens 421 North Lake Drive, Lexington Historic home; covered patio pavillion; holds up to 300 guests; full service facility Contact: Phyllis James www.mitchellhouseandgardens.com 803-359-5325 Orangeburg Country Club 2745 Griffith Drive, Orangeburg Ballroom and space for outdoor ceremonies Contact: Event Manager www.orangeburgcc.com 803-534-5988 Ristorante Divino 803 Gervais Street, Columbia Loft/Dining Room Contact: info@ristorantedivino.com www.ristorantedivino.com 803-799-4550 Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia The Magnolia Room in the Botanical Gardens Contact: sjjackson@riverbanks.org www.riverbanks.org 803-779-8717 x1123 River Center at Saluda Shoals Park 5605 Bush River Road, Columbia Park area (River Center)or conference center
(Environmental Education Center/picnic shelter) Contact: Jason White (River Center) www.icrc.net 803-731-5208 Contact: Elizabeth Christmus www.riverroadjasmine.net 803-781-3315

River Road and Jasmine Houses and Gardens 2204 & 2208 North Lake Drive, Columbia Homes with garden space Seawell's 1125 Rosewood Drive, Columbia Banquet hall
Contact: Cal Seawell www.seawellscateringsc.com 803-771-7385

South Carolina State Museum 301 Gervais Street, Columbia Vista Room, Atrium, & Charleston Courtyard
Contact: facilityrental@scmuseum.org www.museum.state.sc.us 803-898-4922

Spring Valley Country Club 300 Spring Valley Road, Columbia Ballroom Contact: Rhonda Stone www.springvalleycc.com 803-788-3080
Contact: Kathy 803-794-5557

Springdale House and Gardens 3150 Platt Springs Road, West Columbia House and garden pavillion Stone River 121 Alexander Road, West Columbia Event Venue, Wedding Planning
Contact: General Manager, Jay Beneventano facebook.com/StoneRiverColumbia 803-727-8047

The Club at Rawls Creek 2121 Lake Murray Blvd, Columbia Banquet space and outdoor pavilion Contact: Jessica Duncan www.golfrawlscreek.com 803-781-0114
and banquet facility with grand ballroom, salons, board rooms &spacious entrance foyer Contact: Katy Brennan or Page Crenshaw www.troncos.com 803-256-1222

Tronco's Catering & Special Events The Medallion Center 7309 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia Contemporary conference Vista Events/The Congaree Promenade 320 Senate Street, Columbia M ultiple indoor, outdoor, and garden venues in the Historic Vista Contact: Event Manager www.vistaeventsonline.com 803-748-4144 Windermere Club 1101 Longtown Road East, Blythewood Ballroom and patio on golf course Contact: Bill Chandler www.thewindermereclub.com 803-786-6088 Wintergreen Woods 1032 Corley Mill Road, Lexington Reception Hall, covered veranda, 2 courtyards
Contact: Casey Covell or Dixie Covell www.wintergreenwoods.com 803-957-8888

57

Woodlands Country Club 100 Norse Way, Columbia Private dining rooms and banquet space
Contact: Sandra Wilson www.woodlandscc.com 803-788-7771

Stationery
checklist
Save-The-Date Cards Wedding Invitations Announcement Cards

SEAWELLS
catering and events
Full Services At Our Venue Or Yours.

real. simple.

Reception Cards R.S.V.P. Cards Outer Envelopes Inner Envelopes Thank-You Notes Ceremony Programs Napkins

WEDDINGS - RECEPTIONS - REHEARSAL DINNERS

Catering professionals in the Columbia area for over 60 years

58

Seating Place Cards

(803)-771-7385 seawellscateringsc.com
1125 Rosewood Drive

Reception Favors Personal Stationery

Advertiser Index

Catering

Spirits

real. simple.

SEAWELLS catering and events

Established 1946

Full Services At Our Venue Or Yours.

Call Seawell (803)-771-7385 Visit us online seawellscateringsc.com
Flowers

MorganelliS
PA R T Y STORE

Featuring a vast selection of

liquor, spirits, wine, and beer.

Family Owned and Operated Serving Columbia Since 1973

3155 Forest Drive, Columbia,SC 29204 Behind Zestos (803)787-5651

Transportation

PLANT EXPRESS RENTALS

Bring your wedding to life with live plants. Delivery and set-up included. For reservations, ideas, and suggestions call: Jim Pope 803-252-3999 www.plantEXP.com

Jewelry

COLUMBIA CARRIAGE WORKS

www.ColumbiaCarriageWorks.com ColumbiaCarriage@aol.com

Weddings Parties Formal & Special Events 803-227-3833

Photography

Wedding Attire

YOUR GROOMS TUX IS FREE!

Stop by or call for details.

Calico-Photography.com

803-272-8302

2818 Devine St - Columbia, SC 29205 803-771-2700 - www.brittonsofcolumbia.com

Weekdays 10am-7pm; Sat 10am-6pm; Other hours by appointment

In the White Knoll area of Lexington County

NOW OPEN!

59

$40.00 OFF
Tuxedos and of Wedding Accessories

25% OFF

New business. Superior customer service. For all your bridal, bridesmaid, prom, tuxedo and invitation needs.
1787 South Lake Dr., Lexington, SC 29073

DAWNS BRIDAL BOUTIQUE (803) 315-3105

Advertiser Index

Wedding Attire

Wedding & Reception Sites

We specialize in bridal, prom, mother of the bride and cocktail gowns for sizes 14-36

THE GLASS SLIPPER

Plus Size Bridal and Formal Wear
7201 Parklane Rd. Suite G, Columbia SC 29223 803-361-8399 www.theglassslipperplus.com

Full Service Bridal Salon

Ask about our Wedding Package!
P: 803.419.4471 | F: 803.419.2404

www.cricketnewmandesigns.com

The Shops of ONeil Court, 224 ONeil Court, Columbia, SC www.jordansmodernbrideandgroom.com

Wedding Planners

COLUMBIA CONFERENCE CENTER

Were not wedding planners,

were your place to plan!

www.wedding101.net

Need a place for your special occasion? Conferences Meetings Trainings Socials Receptions

1537 Main Street, Suite B | Columbia, SC 29201 O: 803.254.4101 | F: 803.254.4103 Tues Fri 104 | Sat 102 | Sun & Mon Closed

803-772-9811 Off Fernandina Rd. between St. Andrews & Piney Grove Rds. at I-20 & I-26. Columbia, SC
www.columbiameetings.com

Meagan Warren Certied Wedding & Event Planner PO Box 1791,Columbia, SC 29202, T 803.917.1761 meaganwarren.com
Member of The Association of Bridal Consultants

EMBASSY SUITES
200 Stoneridge Dr. Columbia, SC 29210 803.252.8700/ 800. EMBASSY www.embassysuites.com

Fripp Island
60 Golf & Beach Resort

An exceptional setting for your dream wedding.

www.FrippIslandResort.com

1-866-522-4399

Advertiser Index

Wedding & Reception Sites cont.

Wedding & Reception Sites cont.

Mitchell House and Gardens

Events with Southern Gracious Charm

SPRING VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

We believe its the details that make the difference.

803.359.5325
421 North Lake Drive, Lexington, SC
themitchellhouseandgardens.com

803-788-3080 x103 300 Spring Valley Road Columbia, SC 29223 www.springvalleycc.com Contact: Rhonda Stone
Clubhouse Manager/Special Events Coordinator

Unique indoor, outdoor and garden venues for ceremonies, receptions and rehearsal dinners.

316 Senate Street, Columbia (803) 748-4144 duprecatering.com

Photo by Judy Kay Bryan

For rates and information, visit us at 701whaley.com. Contact Tom Chinn at 803.771.0101 or 701whaley@gmail.com.

Be a part of Columbia's most distinct and affluent bridal publication.

To advertise in the next issue or if you would like your wedding to be featured, or email carolinabride@thestate.com

call (803)771-8351

61

Happily Ever Aft er

Photos provided by Calico Photography, Special to Carolina Bride

Jessica Woods and Clark Lacy exiting their reception at 701 Whaley.
62

Event Venue Wedding Planning Corporate Events

Grand Grand Opening

121 Alexander Rd. West Columbia, SC

on August 3rd
63
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(803) 727-8047