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Edit or's Let t er

In this issue of Carolina Bride we focus on the newest trends for weddings and where to look locally in Columbia to find them. As you read about Southern Ways culinary and event expertise in the story about Mary Mungos wedding, youll get a better idea of how one of Columbias premier caterers can turn your night into one that everyone in attendance will remember. Youll learn about two boutiques in town, Brittons and Sash, that will keep you and your wedding party perfectly attired for each event surrounding your big day. In this issue we also visit Bonnie Brunt Cakes, a baker on a beautiful farm in St. Matthews, whose skilled team is ready to joyfully prepare the beautiful and delicious cake of your dreams. The issue highlights Columbias local talent because we know how stressful it can be to plan a wedding, especially if you are under the misconception that you will have to travel far to find what you want. We get to display the amazing talent of a number of photographers in Columbia including Clark Berry, Neva Loftis, Dave Gilbert, Katie Hart, Calico Photography, and many others. The newest trends, combined with your unique style, will set your wedding apart from the rest. This issue of Carolina Bride will guide you through the local talent who will help you accomplish that goal.
Volume 10, Number 1 1 Winter/Spring 2014 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 Marc Coty (803) 771-8329 mcoty@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
Cover Bride: Mary Mungo Photo Provided By: Clark Berry Photography, special to Carolina Bride

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.

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7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glennie & Dan Wedding Story 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Libby & Terry Wedding Story

9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kelli & Kyle Wedding Story 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fairy Tale Scale: Mary & Russ 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lena & Rusty 28 . . . Love on a Solid Foundation: Jennifer & Eric 36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brittons: Remarkable Style 38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sash Bridesmaid Boutique 40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Love on Aisle Nine 42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bonnie Brunt Cakes 44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . One of a Kind: Stone River 47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Obtaining a Marriage License 48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Destination Weddings 52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wedding Album 56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Belk Engagement Par ty 58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Getting Married? 60 . . . . . . . . Riverbanks Weddings & Receptions 63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Catering Considerations 64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Celebration Announcements 67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wedding Day Checklist 68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reception Venues 70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stationery Checklist 71 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adver tiser Index 74 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Happily Ever After

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Glennie Dan

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The Love Story of Glennie Woodrum and Dan Apoldite

October 12, 2013

As told by Glennie Photos contributed by Calico Photography

We met in the fall of 2008. Dan had been living in DC for about three years and I had just moved there after graduating from the College of Charleston. Our first date was at the National Zoo. Since that day, our love for adventure, exploration, and each other never faded. Dan proposed over Labor Day Weekend of 2012. We spent the holiday in North Myrtle Beach with my family. We had been dating for 4 years but I was still taken by surprise when he proposed. We had spent the weekend relaxing and on Sunday night, September 2nd, Dan and my dad both started acting strange. The family was watching the Philadelphia Phillies play the Atlanta Braves on TV. My father suggested we go to the fair on Ocean Drive, so finally we did. We rode rides and ate some ice cream and then finally went for a walk on the beach. Dan dropped to his knee and asked me to marry him.

I was shocked and thrilled. After a few moments with just the sound of the ocean and our hearts beating, I said yes. We were married at St. Johns Episcopal Church in Shandon on October 12, 2013, where I grew up attending church. The reception was held at the Historic Robert Mills House and Gardens on Blanding Street. There was a lot of meaning behind having the reception there. Robert Mills was an architect who was born in Charleston, SC where I attended college, and designed many homes and buildings in Columbia, SC. He was the first federal architect and designed the Washington Monument, where Dan and I had our first kiss. Having the reception at the Robert Mills House was a romantic and symbolic way to tie parts of our lives and relationship together.

Glennie & Dan

&
Libby Terry
The Love Story of Libby & Terry Whigham
August 31, 2013
As told by Libby Photos contributed by Calico Photography
Terry proposed to me on a cold February night in New York City on our terrace at the Bryant Park Hotel. It was truly magical and time stood still during that moment. As a little girl I had always imagined what this moment would be like but it was above and beyond anything I could have ever hoped for. The icing on the cake was my engagement ring. The center stone was my grandmothers diamond. She had passed away a year ago and this was his way of incorporating her into our journey, which meant the world to me. Terry and I both grew up in South Carolina and attended The University of South Carolina. It was not hard to decide that we wanted our wedding in Columbia, SC and I had fallen in love with our venue, 701 Whaley, years earlier at an event that I attended. Now all we had to do was decide on a date. Growing up in the South we knew that we had to plan around football season. 701 Whaley was available on August 31, which was not on a day that Carolina was playing so this was our day. When we were asked if we would like our mascot, Cocky, to make an appearance we thought that he would be a fun surprise for everyone. My goal in planning our wedding was to not stress and to have fun. I wanted everyone to walk away that night saying how much fun they had and I think they did. After a touching ceremony, our guests walked downstairs to the reception hall where they were greeted by the aroma of one of our favorite southern dishes, Shrimp & Grits. The dcor was exactly how I had imagined it. A backdrop to die for that my wedding planner put together, beautiful centerpieces, La Tavola linens, Caf-Style lighting draped from the ceiling, candles, our beautiful wedding cake that was made by a friend, pictures of me and Terry throughout the room. We danced the night away and had an absolute blast! I dont think I sat down all night and I definitely never stopped smiling. Terry and I even met our guests for one last drink at the hotel after the reception. We were not ready for our night to be over. I consider myself one of the lucky brides who can look back and smile at every moment. From finding the perfect dress with my mom, seeing Terrys face the moment he saw me walk down the aisle, watching our precious flower girls scurry down the aisle, to then ending the day married to my best friend.

Libby & Terry

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Kelli Kyle
The Love Story of Kyle and Kelli Brown
August 3, 2013
As told by Kelli Photos contributed by Calico Photography
I was about to begin the Fall semester of my final year of college when my cousin, Miranda, asked me if I wanted to go to Columbia with her to see my brother, Taylor. She had to go to orientation at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, which is only about an hour away from Columbia, so she figured we could just make a visit out of it. I told her I would love to, and we left on a Wednesday afternoon to head to South Carolina. Miranda loves nothing more than setting her friends and family up with people. On the way to Columbia, she began her speech about how she knew the perfect guy for me (it wasnt Kyle) and that she would make it happen. I stopped her mid-sentence, telling her I had no interest whatsoever in being in a relationship at that point in my life, and that she should find someone else for this guy because I was definitely not interested and would not be interested in any guy, anywhere. Fast forward to Friday night. When Kyle walked in I would like to say that the world stopped and that tiny unicorns started running around the room blowing stardust into my face, but instead I took one look at him and decided he was too good looking to have any personality, and promptly ignored him for the next several hours. Miranda, of course, decided that he was my soulmate and kept telling me to go talk to green m&m (her nickname for Kyle because of the green polo he was wearing), and I kept telling her that she was stupid and that I was completely sold on the idea of being alone forever. After dinner, we went to Tin Roof and listened to the live band. The details are hazy, but Miranda somehow got Kyle and me to dance together. Once we got home I decided I was hungry and raided the fridge, eating expired applesauce and forcing Kyle to eat it too. I also tried to eat a banana, but I just ended up ripping all of the tops off of the bunch of bananas. Kyle then said, Im going to throw a banana at you in the morning.I probably shouldve known we were meant for each other when I didnt find that strange or funny, but instead I said, No you wont. You wont remember this conversation. I was packing my bag in the morning when I saw a banana whiz past my head and knew that he remembered, and then I proceeded to act like a middle schooler and ignore him out of nervousness, which was probably awkward for everyone involved. I left without saying goodbye to him. I remember riding back to Atlanta with Miranda, saying, Why do I care that I just left him? I feel sad. What the heck is wrong with me? and tried to put him out of my mind for the next few days. After asking some friends at work what I should do and receiving much ridicule, I finally gave in, contacted him through Facebook, and the rest was historyI give Miranda all of the credit.

Kelli & Kyle

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Fairy Tale Scale

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ary Mungo was not one of those girls who dreams about and plans out her wedding for years before there is an actual proposal. However, when Russell James Dubisky asked Mary to marry him, the wheels began turning. Marys mother, Deloris, says that she wanted her only daughter to know that it was her day. She points out: We (along with father Stewart Mungo) would work to make what she wanted happen. Mary, who is the daughter of the second generation owner of The Mungo Company the largest residential developer in South Carolina desired what many brides envision: a fancy, romantic, fairytale wedding. Married in November 9th, 2013, exactly a year to the week of her engagement, Mary and Russ experienced what Mary says was a picture-perfect wedding. Prior to the wedding, the couple

explains Mary. To prepare for the wedding, Mary enlisted the assistance of Event Designer Cricket Newman, as well as scoured the popular Pinterest site. I played on there for hours and hours, says Mary. I had at least 1,000 pins. As I began to narrow down my ideas, I took some pins off. Mary had been a bridesmaid at least 10 times prior to planning her own wedding, so she gleaned ideas from those events as well. Admittedly undecided, Mary says she tended to change her mind regarding some details. However, the big day came together through the work of many, including Russ, who was involved just enough blocking hotel rooms for guests and even stufng the romantic lace-inspired invitations. Mary says there is nothing she would change about her special day. Russ echoes that sentiment: I was impressed at how

se Bullard, a partner and vice president in the 33-year-old Southern Way Catering rm hired to cater the wedding, the fabrics draped on the tables and hanging from the walls, windows, and ceiling at the reception made the setting magical. Backlighting some of the draperies and throughout Columbia Museum of Art were twinkling lights. These lights also were hung around the giant tent in front of the Museum. Even the cake table had twinkling lights. Mary wanted the feel of hundreds of reies, and the lights provided the affect she was seeking.

Fancy Fare

The fancy fare and its presentation also suited Mary. Bullard says the goal was to give guests a night to remember and serve food that guests would still be talking about. Instead of offering a few typical hors doeuvres to the

who met at Pearlz in downtown Columbia attended numerous theme parties, some of which were also showers. Because they made it known that they would be honeymooning in Hawaii, some friends hosted an island themed party with items such as sh tacos on the menu. A Kentucky Derby party, held last spring, involved the guests making elaborate hats and dressing the then bride-to-be in an extravagant paper gown. A tea party shower at the Lexington Country Club involved a variety of unique tea pots, lled with owers, to decorate the event. The rehearsal dinner, held the day before the wedding, was at the Capitol City Club and featured the beautiful music of pianist and family friend Philip Myers,

smooth things ran from start to nish.

The Fairytale Factor

Three main factors that created a Cinderella-like ambiance at the 6:30 p.m. wedding were the dress, the linens, and the twinkling lights. Mary wore an ivory Italian silk organza gown, which was very owy, and had a cathedral-length train and a long lace veil. A few large organza roses were the only adornments on the dress. Mary owed into Trinity Episcopal Cathedral church amid candlelight and bagpipe music. Waiting for her down the aisle, besides her husband-to-be, were 10 bridesmaids dressed in romantic blush pink gowns. Draperies created by Newman, added to the fairytale allure. According to Jes-

wedding guests, Southern Way offered over twenty-four unique samplings. Instead of three to four food stations, there were eight. Mary says she especially enjoyed the lobster and Gouda macaroni and cheese served in martini glasses with additional toppings: tomatoes, green onions, bacon, and shredded white cheddar, Havarti with dill stilton bleu, or parmesan cheeses. There was an abundance of sea food, including crab cakes, 300 pounds of shrimp, and fried oysters for which Southern Way is especially known. Instead of the typical horseradish sauce served with beef tenderloin, the caterer presented a smoked beef tenderloin served with a warm bleu cheese sauce and shoestring French fries served in shot glasses. A

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Flowers above by American Floral

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Panini station had gourmet cheeses, Asiago bread, and tomato bisque served in demitasse cups. There was also a sushi bar with a master sushi chef hand rolling traditional rolls and such selections as tempura fried shrimp rolls. Veggie trays had pickled okra wrapped in prosciutto. A martini bar provided Cosmopolitan drinks and bleu cheese stuffed olives. Later in the evening, Baileys Irish Cream milkshakes, Texas toast patty melts, and Krispy Kreme doughnut holes were served. We knew going into it that we would need to make this reception extra special, says Bullard. A week prior to the reception, Southern Way Catering had to begin bringing in enough equipment to set up an entire restaurant kitchen since the museum had no kitchen on the premises. Forty-two staff members were scheduled to work on the day of the wedding. The kind of catering we do is not like anyone else. We basically bring in a ne dining restaurant to a remote location some of the dcor, the china, the food, the wait staff This wedding was extravagant grandiose and it was one of those that I wanted to last. Both Mary and Russ rave about the food; Mary says it met expectations regarding the fancy factor she wanted to achieve. Topping it all off was the six-tier, colossal wedding cake. The fairytale romance effect of the almond pound cake was achieved with mint green fondant and numerous butteries, birds, and owers expertly crafted of sugar. (Marys mother saved the porcelain-like ornaments so that they can be displayed.) They told me afterwards that it was supposed to have seven layers, but the largest layer was damaged when it was being moved to the reception site, says Mary. No one ever knew. It was immaculate so beautiful. I couldnt believe it! Everything went very, very well, says Deloris. It was a fancy, romantic, fairytale wedding. Adds Stewart,

As a father, it was gratifying to give her a storybook wedding. Its wonderful that she married such a nice man from such a nice family. Thats most important.

Romantic Ending

The married couple arrived at their reception not in a horse and carriage, but in the stately silver cloud Rolls Royce owned by Marys father. Mary says she felt like royalty pulling up to the Museum in the classic car driven by a chauffeur. The couple also departed in the Rolls Royce, stopping at Pearlz to have their picture made. Even though the theme of the reception was fairy-tale-like, there were modern elements present. The South Carolina party band, Men of Distinction, played until late into the night. Party favors included tropical Chapstick, wine bottle openers, water bottles featuring a picture of the couple, and Mint-to-Be tins. Capturing all the excitement of the event from the engagement to the couple departing from the reception was Photographer Clark Berry. He captured what Russ describes as a man (as corny as it may sound) marrying the woman of my dreams. The pictures convey other feelings: the joy I felt walking out of the church with Mary on my arm, and the fun we had with our friends and family that weekend. Mary, who has been a principle at The Mungo Company since graduating from Wofford a few years ago, says she is still reeling from her princessscale wedding. Russ, who is executive director of the South Carolina Insurance News Service, moved into his wifes Mungo home that she has owned for seven years in Irmo. They now also share ownership of two Cavalier King Charles spaniels and a few formerly stray cats. The couple plans to one day design and build a Mungo home together.
By: Deena C. Bouknight Photos Provided By: Clark Berry Photography

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Lena and Rusty Hit it Out of the Park

ena met Rusty during her freshman year in an education class at Mars Hill College in North Carolina but they didnt start dating until her sophomore year. Her senior year, when Rusty had already graduated and moved to Virginia, Lena and her college roommate were both in long distance relationships and would carpool to visit their boyfriends. On one of those trips, everything that could go wrong did. Trafc, toll roads, a missed exit and a normally 6 hour trip turned into 10. She knew shed feel better after she saw Rusty, had a Capri Sun and some Advil. She didnt know the whole weekend would be one of the most special as Rusty proposed to her that night and they celebrated all weekend long. Wedding planning from afar turned out to be a bit difcult with Lena and Rustys busy schedules and so Lenas mom, Cheryl Palo stepped in to help

as much as possible. They went to the Columbia Bridal Show together in January and while there were happy to nd out that the Lexington Country Club hosted weddings. Both the bride and groom are athletes, and Rusty is an avid golfer so the Country Club was the perfect spot for this athletic couples nuptials and wedding celebration. As soon as the venue was selected and a date was secure, the rest of the planning seemed to fall into the hands of the professionals. Both Lena and her mom said that each and every vendor they worked with helped bring their ideas to life and the wedding day ow smoothly. Lena said the best advice they received was that something will not go as planned on your wedding day. But as long as your friends and family are there to celebrate with you, just make sure to go with the ow and enjoy the day. During their rst dance as husband and wife, Lena and Rusty were joined with

some unexpected guests on the dance oor: gnats. They got some bug spray, swatted them away, took a photo of the swatting, and kept on dancing together, smiling. In addition to nding the venue at the Columbia Bridal Show, Lena saw a dress at the show that had stood out in her mind. After visiting every bridal store between Lexington and Columbia and trying on close to 100 dresses, she kept thinking about the dress from the show. Once she tried on that Priscila Couture dress with the sweetheart neckline, rhinestone details at the waist, and the rufes that owed to the oor, she knew and told her mom This is it! A brunch hosted by her neighbor started the wedding day with her bridesmaids, a group made up of swim team friends from high school and college, as well as her sister in law and their mothers by her side. The bridesmaids

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were in cobalt blue knee length, one shoulder dresses that matched the brides something blue which was a pair of cobalt blue rounded toe pumps. Lenas something borrowed and old was her moms engagement ring. The groom and his groomsmen, which included Rustys younger brother, a college friend, and childhood friends from kindergarten & elementary school from Leesburg, VA were in black tuxedos with silver vests. The couple, surrounded by their friends and family, was married on August 10th, and it was the rst weekend that didnt rain this wet summer here in the Midlands. The sun was out, and the outdoor ceremony happened under the beautiful ower arbor designed by Scott from American Floral with yellow lilies, yellow and fuchsia gerbera daisies, green hydrangeas, variegated pittosporum and ruscus. American Floral impressed the bride and her mother from the rst meeting, we told our ideas to Scott, and he brought them to life! Cheryl said, making one less detail for them to have to think about. And its no surprise they were so happy with Scott when he believes no matter the size of the event, it is still someones wedding and has to be perfect. Thats what we were after. Each bride gets as much time and attention from start to nish because its their special day. Both ready and excited to be married, the couple even took some time to swing the golf club for a memorable photo opp! To keep with the athletic sport theme, there was a 7th Inning Stretch table at the reception for the guests to enjoy. Fake turf was used as the tablecloth, and a shadowbox mimicking old collectible baseball cards with Rustys photo and sports stats made by the bride was blown up and framed to decorate the table. Metal ice tubs labeled Team Smith were lled

with popcorn and cracker jacks, babe ruth chocolates and hard candies that looked like baseballs. As if their wedding day couldnt be any sweeter, the wedding cake, topped with a cursive S was three layers and made by Vintage Bakery. Italian creme on the top layer, lemon w/ raspberry ll in middle, and vanilla with a creme cheese frosting on the bottom layer made sure each guests tastes were satised. The grooms cake was done by a friend of the mother of the bride, and looked like a baseball to match the 7th inning stretch table decorations. The Lexington Country Club staff managed the day and even gave advice on how best to decorate each table. Having faith in all of the vendors hired to help with the wedding gave Lena and Rusty the freedom to just enjoy the memorable day and celebrate with their best friends and family. The wedding details, the gorgeous day and the happiness of the couple and their guests were all captured by Katie & Dave from Palmetto Duo so this special event will never be forgotten. From the cobalt blue bridesmaid dresses to the natural backdrop of the golf course greens to the dance oor lighting by the dj, the wedding celebration was as vibrant and lively as the bride and groom. Since their Carolina wedding this summer, Mr. and Mrs. Rusty Smith bought a house in Round Hill, Virginia and are both teachers. Lena is a high school math teacher and swim team coach, and Rusty is a middle school physical education teacher and a high school basketball and baseball coach. The custom koozies that were available at the reception summarize this athletic couple and their wedding day best, we hit it out of the park!
By: Kristin OHara Photos provided by Palmetto Duo - Dave Gilbert & Katie Hart, Special to Carolina Bride

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Love on Solid Foundation

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hen Eric Thompson proposed to Jennifer Pace, she saw a loving future in his eyes. And their futures foundation underfoot. We were standing on the site where he planned to build our home, said the newlywed. Friends rst, then dating on and off for a while before becoming more serious, the couple was headed that night so Jennifer thought - to a favorite restaurant for a nice dinner. Eric said he wanted to show me something on our way to Terra. It was not unusual for him to take me to look at a building site. said Jennifer, explaining that Eric is project manager in his familys custom home building business, Rex Thompson & Company. We got out of the car at the edge of a beautiful piece of property in Olde Park, and I said, Yeh, honey, this is really nice. But we need to hurry to make

our reservation. He seemed to be in no hurry and kept saying, Come with me, and we walked deeper into the lot. I was looking around at the property, looking out for poison ivy, and stepped ahead of him. When I turned around, he was down on one knee, asking me to marry him. The next few moments are still a blur to Jennifer. She recalled the surprise: I quickly caught on to the signicance of this property. It was not a residential building site for someone else this was where he planned to build a home for us! (Note: the couple is now At Home in the house whose foundation rests on that recently-vacant lot where they became engaged.) The blur extended to the accepting of the ring as well. I honestly dont remember whether he put the ring on my nger, or whether I took it from him, she said, laughing at herself.

What she is sure of, though, is how signicant the ring was - and is. The emerald-cut center diamond had been his maternal grandmothers. Shes the one who taught him to sh she was very special to him. I so wish I could have met her while she was living. Jennifer said Sylvan & DuBose in Five Points customized the ring perfectly for my style, with surrounding encrusted diamonds. Once Jennifer said Yes! to the romantic proposal, the couple headed not to Terras but to Erics parents home where both families and some friends were waiting to congratulate them. Although there was plenty of planning time between their November 2, 2012 engagement and July 13, 2013, the date Eric said he could easily remember as their anniversary, the couple quickly sought the assistance of wedding and event planner Melanie Mur-

phy, a founding owner of By Invitation Only (BIO). I had just started a new job, and with the home building industry strong again, Eric was extremely busy as well recalled Jennifer. BIO had been highly recommended to us by friends - Melanie was the rst wedding planner I called and it was a good t right away. Jennifer said from the start Melanie helped on big decisions and took on small details. She helped us stay within budget; in fact, she saved me more than the amount of her fee. When Melanie and Jennifer began the planning, the brideto-be already had settled on coral and navy as the colors she wanted to use and that a nautical theme would suit them. Eric loves being on the water: shing, boating, and Jennifer wanted to make sure he would feel comfortable on their special day, Melanie said. The wedding, at Kilbourne Park Baptist Church, involved minimal enhancement. The beauty of the church spoke for itself, so Melanie and her team focused most of their resources and energy on the reception and making sure the couples personalities showed through in every detail. We chose Millstone at Adams Pond, said Jennifer, because of the natural beauty of the setting. We love being outdoors, so this location was perfect for us, for our special day. The historic site, dating to the 1700s, is set among old-growth trees and other foliage. Melanie interpreted the couples theme by incorporating authentic nautical ropes and cleats into the dcor. She brought in an old boat to serve as the bar, Jennifer said. Oyster shells were scattered about the setting. And she even found the perfect lanterns to help carry the theme. We had a large wedding party- nine attendants each, Jennifer said. For the bouquets Melanie blended in a lighter

shade of the blue from the hydrangeas. The guys wore custom-made linen suits from Brittons, and Perry Lancaster worked with Eric on designing a tie for the occasion, using our colors. The Terra dinner Eric invited Jennifer on back in early November 2012 nally came to pass. As it turned out, the Terra reservation for the night we got engaged was just a ploy, Jennifer explained. But his parents hosted our rehearsal dinner there. On the hot July day they exchanged

rings, Jennifer walked down the aisle in a strapless, slim A-line gown with soft, romantic details such as a rushed organza bodice with a sweetheart neckline, and a satin waistband setting off a skirt with delicate overlay tapering to semicathedral length. Her cathedral-length veil was edged by thick lace. Jennifers and her bridesmaids gowns were from Evelyns. She was escorted by a loyal

family friend, also her godfather. Bob Zecher was my dads best friend of forty years. They had been Kappa Sigmas together at California State University. Bob and his wife Elaine introduced my parents. Before my dad lost his battle with cancer about six years earlier, Bob asked his permission to walk me down the aisle when that day arrived. To represent my fathers presence, Something Special, our orist, put Dads fraternity ring inside my bouquet. That meant so much to me! Another meaningful inclusion in their wedding day was having Jennifers pastor, Chuck Everett from Trinity Baptist Church in Lugoff, hear their vows. The reception was a natural and appropriately rustic set up for the couples island honeymoon, arranged by the professionals at Forest Lake Travel. The layers of Parkland Cakes tiered confection were lemon, key lime and strawberry avored. Southern Way caterers replenished trays on the tables while the wedding party posed for Zil Photography. By then Jennifer had switched to a classic birdcage veil to make dancing easier. Once in Cabo San Lucas, Eric shared one of his favorite hobbies with his bride; he chartered two shing trips, an inshore and an off-shore. He boasts of Jennifers catches. She reeled in two striped marlins, the same number I caught. Soon after the couple returned from their honeymoon, their custom home was nished. Their love has a solid foundation.
By: Rachel Haynie Photos provided by Zil Photography, special to Carolina Bride

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First Impressions are Lasting Impressions

Providing clothing and tuxedo rentals for all of your events.

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

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

Ceremonies looking out over a Botanical Garden Live Animal Encounters Cocktails in unique animal exhibits Wedding receptions up to 300 guests! Wedding profits donated to animal conservation Ample free parking

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T (803) 602-0900 E planyourevent@riverbanks.org W www.riverbanks.org/planyourevent

Remarkable family, remarkable style

erry Lancaster moves through Brittons quickly and purposefully. Each person who comes in the door of the ne men and womens clothing store is a new opportunity for Lancaster to shake hands, introduce himself, and ask how he can help. It is not a gregarious nature that motivates him; he is all business, with a genuine desire to help his customers nd the clothing they need. Personal relationships are the foundation for the business. They are not a department store, proting from low priced volume. Brittons provides quality clothing along with the consultative benets and style expertise of Lancaster, his wife Stacy and brother-in-law Lucky Levinson. Arnold Levinson, opened Brittons on Main Street in the early fties. His vision for the business was to connect with USC students by offering classic clothing. Stacy Levinson remembers dancing in the store for customers as a four year old and taking her rst trip to buy clothing in New York City as a 9th grader. The family business struggled at rst but then began to see success after offering a Gamecock charge account to students, with a $100 credit limit. In the early sixties they expanded the business beyond mens and boys clothing by adding womens clothing. They focused on ladies tailored sportswear. In 1973 they became the second store south of Washington DC to carry Polo by Ralph Lauren. In response to their success they expanded in the Columbia area to four separate locations during the 70s. By 1991 they realized that more locations meant that their

commitment to a consultative and personal customer experience was falling short. They decided to consolidate back into one store, their current location on Devine Street, and reestablish the quality experience on which their reputation was built. Stacy and Lucky Levinson inherited the style prociency that ows through their family. As the womens and mens buyers they are responsible for staying in front of style trends and choosing which ones will suit their clientele in this market. Stacy remains cognizant of the professional women she styles. She buys sophisticated, gure attering clothing that can be worn by women at any age. She helps women nd clothing that promotes their condence and when they trust her enough to come back a second time she knows she has succeeded. Stacys oldest client is ninety three and her farthest reaching client lives in Johnson County and comes in to shop every time she is in Columbia visiting her mother. She has built a loyal customer base through the quality lines she carries, Eileen Fisher, Armani, Hale Bob, Lola & Sophie, and the attention she places on styling each person individually. She aspires to have each person walk out the door looking on the outside how she feels on the inside. Lucky Levinson is the vision behind the mens clothing lines. Although there is a large portion of the store devoted to quality weekend clothing, lines like Southern Tide and Vineyard Vines, Levinsons passion is dotted throughout the store in the form of

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colorful bowties. Brittons carries an extensive selection of bowties and Lucky Levinson is a renowned expert on this uniquely southern male accessory. His very popular YouTube video How to tie a bowtie has been seen close to three million times. In the past few years they have also opened a formal wear line. With the closing of Weathers on Devine, there was a need for a quality formal wear provider. He found a line out of Atlanta with very good turnaround time and a truer t than they had seen from other lines. Brides and grooms come in for appointments to choose their formal wear toting swatches from bridesmaid dresses to match cummerbunds or vests. Brittons offers suit packages for events as well and will create custom ties to match bridesmaid dresses. The Levinson siblings commitment to classic southern style and to each individual client is what keeps customers coming back repeatedly, but it is Lancasters commitment to networking and relationship building both inside and outside of the store that often

brings them in the door the rst time. Lancaster forms alliances with other local businesses in an attempt to unify and strengthen both sides. His most recent partnership was formed with Sash, the ne dress boutique that opened around the corner. Lancaster also maintains a very strong commitment to community involvement, especially within the University of South Carolina. They teach classes on networking and building wardrobes for USCs School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism and the Department of Retail. They also sponsor student scholarships through the fashion board. On February 9th they will host, at the Columbia Met-

ropolitan Convention Center, an attempt to break the Guinness World Record for most bowties tied simultaneously. It will benet the Palmetto Health Childrens Hospital and will involve the USC Dance Marathon organization along with a number of other community organizations. As Stacy Levinson accurately describes him, Perry Lancaster is the glue for Brittons; keeping the store part of the community and the community part of the store. When I comment to Stacy Levinson on the impressiveness of family members working so well together day in and day out she laughs and jokingly insists that they are just as dysfunctional as other families. Lancaster, Stacy and Lucky Levinson each contribute their individual passions and unique abilities to Brittons and when combined these attributes make one fully functioning, and in fact remarkably successful, business. Visit 2818 Devine Street, or brittonsofcolumbia.com.
By:Emily Folsom Fernandez

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ust off of Devine, on Holly Street, is a beautiful old home that has been restored and transformed into the bridesmaid boutique, Sash. Kathryn Dinkins opened the store after her own frustrating experience traveling around the southeast to nd appropriate attire for her own wedding in 2012. At the time she was a practicing attorney with experience in contracts, tax law, and small business formations. Her education and pertinent experience combined with a growing desire to ll a need in Columbia solidied her choice to make a sizeable career change and open her own store. Sash carries eighteen different gorgeous formal wear dress lines, including Siri and LulaKate, with a range of prices. Dinkins sees brides by appointment only so that she can devote her time to

interview them, nd out what they like and dont like, and then help them to narrow down their choices. During appointments they review swatches together, and discuss the ordering time frame. She suggests they start the process six months prior to the event. In her lovely shop with expansive dressing rooms, brides shop for engagement party and rehearsal dinner dresses at the same time that they are picking out their bridesmaids dresses. She does not have wedding gowns in the store but she does carry a special line of little white dresses which are popular with brides because it gives them the option of having two wedding dresses one for the ceremony, one for the reception. They carry Kate Spade jewelry and accessories and Dinkins has also partnered with Brittons to offer mens formal wear.

In the four months that they have been open they have seen their client base grow through old fashioned referrals and social media lift. The store has been well received thanks to Dinkins accurate assessment of what brides in Columbia need. To book your appointment please visit: sashbridesmaid.com or call 803708-9060.
By:Emily Folsom Fernandez

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Meredith Frazier, a bride getting married in April, purchased her bridesmaids dresses and her own little white dress at Sash.

t all started with a simple trip to the grocery store four years ago.Mildred Vanderpuije rounded the end of an aisle and there he was, looking at pasta sauces -- Kendrick, her future husband. The moment I saw him, God told me that one day, he would be my husband, Mildred gushed. I watched him for a few seconds, then walked over and acted like I couldnt nd a certain sauce, just so I would have a reason to talk to him. We had a nice chat and exchanged business cards. I took his card home and placed it in my bible, but then forgot about it. She denitely caught my attention, Kendrick Pack described, but we were dating others so I just thought it was a nice acquaintance. I had the feeling, though, that our paths would cross again. Fast-forward a year to 2010. Mildred needed advice on selling her home and recalled Kendrick, a real estate broker.

Love on Aisle Nine

She found his business card and contacted him. A conversation about homes turned in to nding out that they had much in common. As fate would have it, both of their previous relationships had ended and they were free to date. After long hours on the phone, getting to know each other, they nally had their rst ofcial date at a local Books-a-Million store. We became great friends and were together constantly, Mildred described. Over the years, we shared many wonderful experiences and even traveled to my native home of Ghana, to visit my family and help support my father. Mildreds father, Alfred, is the mayor of Accra, the capital city of Ghana located on the western coast of Africa. Nearly two more years passed when Kendrick, sitting with Mildred and enjoying the romantic waterfall at Embassy Suites, proposed. Mildred had just turned away for a second, and when she turned

back around he was on his knees. I was so surprised, she recalls. I could not stop crying and saying yes, all at the same time! I was so happy! After his proposal, Kendrick told Mildred that her mother was the rst to see the engagement ring during a recent trip to Columbia. Mildreds mother had passed away a few days earlier. Soon, they set about planning two weddings - one in Ghana and one in the U.S. We wanted all of our friends and family from both parts of the world to be with us during our union in holy matrimony, Mildred explained. They hired local wedding planner Roxanne Price of Marry Me Weddings and began their planning journey. Over the next 12 months every little detail was wrapped up, from the ceremony and reception decor to the bridal partys grand reception entrance to the dinner menu and song list. There were so many decisions to be made between the two

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celebrations, but it all came together beautifully and was exactly as we had imagined it, Mildred reected. Roxanne put together a very specic timeline to keep us all on track. Most of all, we felt my mothers presence with us in everything we did. Kendrick and Mildred were married in Ghana on July 4, 2013 followed by a marriage ceremony in Columbia on July 14 at Ephesus Seventh-Day Adventist Church. For the ceremony in Ghana, the grooms family exchanged gifts with the brides family and the couple wore traditional attire. For the ceremony in Columbia, the bride wore a stunning white princess gown adorned with sheer sleeves and crystals and in keeping with the formality of the day, the bridesmaids wore different versions of long, champagne-colored gowns from Carolina Couture. Two ower girls were dressed in all white. The groom and groomsmen were dashing in black tuxes with champagne accents, as was the ring bearer. But instead of carrying a ring pillow, the ring bearer carried Mildreds mothers bible with a

single white rose on top. He placed the bible in the pew where her mother would have been sitting, then took his place at the altar.It was a lovely sentiment, an honoring of my mothers memory, Mildred described. After being whisked away from the church by First Class Limo, the couple celebrated the night away at Embassy Suites with music by Sound Quest and a

lovely sit-down dinner. I didnt want my guests to have to get up for anything, Mildred said, so we decided to have dinner served to us so we could all relax. The catering professionals at Embassy Suites served signature mocktails made of fresh pineapple juice, grenadine and lemon-lime soda while guests

feasted on herb-roasted chicken and rice, a variety of vegetables and warm breads. Exquisite ivory roses, hydrangea and Monte casino owers in glowing glass vases, arranged by Rex and Sandy Woolbright of Weddings by Woolbright, adorned the head and guest tables. Covered Events used white spandex chair covers tied with champagne-colored organza, matching the gold organza swirled table linens, while a four-tiered wedding cake by Sweet Temptations Bakery anked the corner of the reception room - and tempting is was! Many guests enjoyed second pieces so I was thankful we preserved the top! Mildred laughed. As the evening drew to a close, the newlyweds took a moment to thank family and guests for sharing in their day. Every moment was so special and the perfect way to begin our happily-ever-after! It couldnt have been more perfect, Mildred and Kendrick agreed. And to think it all started with a simple trip the grocery store.
By: Roxanne Price, Marry Me Weddings Photos provided by David R. Walters, Photography, LLC

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CAKES
onnie Brunts business inhabits the basement of her charming farm house in St. Matthews. The kitchen and design areas are clean and have state of the art appliances. Her young team of bakers and designers laughs a lot and sings along to upbeat music while they are working. The happiness that comes from doing what you love to do, with people who share your passion and enthusiasm, is palpable in this kitchen. Brunt and her husband have always had entrepreneurial spirits but she will tell you that the start of Bonnie Brunt Cakes was an accident. When her twin boys were born twenty four years ago,

Bonnie Brunt
she and her husband were running a business in Atlanta, four hours away from their extended family. She turned to a cake decorating class as her one escape from the stress of her daily life. It was, as she refers to it, a necessary distraction and she ended up loving it. Brunt has a background in graphic design and her team members are also artistically inclined. Kelly, her assistant, is an artist with a degree in studio art. Her eye for manipulating color and texture has helped this team produce beautiful works of art. Brunt welcomes brides out to the farmhouse to sit down and discuss their vision one-on-one. She likes for her cakes

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DELICIOUS
to be uniquely inspired by each bride. Brides tell her what they like and dont like and they also get the enviable chance to try 5-7 different cake avors and 4-5 avors of icing and llings. Brunt is aware of the stress brides experience planning their wedding and she likes her part of their planning to be delightful. When brides live out of town or are unavailable for inperson meetings, Brunt goes to great lengths; emailing sketches and discussing options over the phone to make sure the same level of service and design quality is provided. Along with their commitment to joyful customer service, Brunt is committed to consis-

and Joyful Artistry

tently delicious taste. As she explains, they bake southern comfort cake avors that nourish your soul, including, but certainly not limited to: carrot cake, strawberry cake, sour cream pound, red velvet, and white chocolate. The teams artistic abilities combined with their delicious avors make Bonnie Brunt Cakes a premier option for brides in Columbia. Please visit bonniebrunt.com or call 803655-7812 for more information.
By: Emily Folsom Fernandez

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hen it comes to starting a new business, it is often said that location is everything. Opened in the heart of downtown Columbia with the beautiful backdrop of the Congaree River, Stone River has the perfect location for a wedding venue. This venue offers incredible views from both indoor and covered outdoor seating options. However, this venue has much more to offer than just a pretty view. And while location is everything for some businesses, it was just a starting point for Stone River. Stone River, seated on Alexander Road in between Meeting Street and Knox Abbott Drive, has only been open since last summer, but has already gained a reputation for being a premier event venue. The venue is available for events seven days a week, and is capable of hosting a variety of occasions. Weddings, large private parties, corporate meetings, semi-

nars, and luncheons have all been held at Stone River to great response. The venue has several accommodating sections available for rent. The main ballroom, which includes a full-service bar, can seat up to 275 guests. When used as the setting of a cocktail style event with food stations, this area provides room for 350 to 400 guests. This spacious area features large windows looking out onto the river and a central stone replace. With neutral spa colors and stone accents, the main ballroom can be custom decorated to t any brides tastes. The private meeting room, seating 75 guests, is also available for more low prole receptions or corporate events. With beautiful outdoor options available, Stone River provides brides with the unique ability to hold both their wedding ceremony and reception in the same venue. Brides can be wed in the covered pavilion or on the sweeping lawn that

borders the Congaree River. The 1,500 square foot pavilion can seat up to 125 attendees. This area includes numerous ceiling fans to keep guests comfortable during summer months. While in the pavilion, guests have a great view of the unique stone fountain, which was carved into a pre-existing rock at the venue. In early 2014, Stone River will begin construction with Masters Men Remodeling & Construction to build an additional 2,000 square foot lawn area for wedding ceremonies. This area will feature agstone accents with a pergola, outdoor deck, and replace built onto this space. When completed, this new addition will be capable of seating 300 guests for wedding ceremonies. More than just a venue, Stone River is also known for its food and beverage offerings. The full service bar can be rented out with a variety of packages to match the preferences of even the picki-

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(803) 917-9618 www.nevaloftisphotography.com

est wedding party. The food at Stone River has created substantial buzz in Columbia since Southern Way Catering became the exclusive in-house caterer for all events. Southern Way Catering has over 30 years experience in providing delicious Southern cuisine to weddings large and small. Mimi Parnell, the Southern Way representative for Stone River, previously coordinated catering services for the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC for 11 years. All brides are given a personal consultation with Mimi to cover every detail of their big day. Stone River is also available for corporate events and gatherings, both large and small. To make reservations with Stone River, please call (803) 727-8047 or (803) 451-0044. For more information and to view pictures of Stone River, please visit www. stonerivercolumbia.com.
By: Marc Coty Special to Carolina Bride
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA

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DOWNTOWN AT USC

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"The wedding was a great su ccess.. THAN Everyone was K YOU!!!! so im music, the pictu pressed with your work (th e res, the lightin g and the venue and the singing staff said you !) were the best had ever work DJ they ed with!"

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Kelly Smith, Wedding Specialist Kelly.Smith@DoubleTreeSC.com phone (803) 744-0141 fax (803) 731-4892

Obtaining a Marriage License in Relax and Leave

South Carolina

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

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 certicate 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.

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Destination Weddings
Special Weddings
Destinations made for lovers, where sea and sunsets set the stage for glorious weddings and where resorts are designed for romance. For very special weddings a travel agent can arrange award-winning beachfront resorts, unique ceremony settings, value-added packages, free wedding-planning services and ultra-chic honeymoon suites. Begin your life together with your toes in the sand, under a charming gazebo, in a beachfront chapel, or on a rooftop deck with sea views. Then let a Caribbean band or Mexican harpist or Hawaiian singer serenade your reception. No wonder destination weddings are becoming more and more popular! If you dream of saying I do against an exotic backdrop - such as a tropical beach, a lush vineyard, a windswept mountaintop, or a romantic castle a destination wedding may be for you. 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. the details, from planning your wedding to helping with local requirements such as blood tests or establishing brief residency. They can explain all the options of caterers, orists, photographers and other suppliers so there is less for you to do in this busy time.

Make Your Wedding Feel Like a Vacation.

Many couples combine their wedding ceremony with activities before and after the exchange of vows for themselves and their guests. This turns the whole event into a vacation for everyone involved. It can be a long weekend or even a full week of fun for you and your guests and a perfect time for bonding with family and friends.

Save Expenses
A destination wedding can save you money. Many resorts offer complimentary basic wedding packages so you pay only for your honeymoon. You could also modify that package to design the wedding thats perfect for you. By not following the model of an expensive, traditional wedding you can manage costs to t your budget.

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Why have a destination wedding?

A Unique and Memorable Experience

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 spe-

Less time to Stress and More Time to Savor the Moment

A travel agent can help you with all

cializes 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 of the procedures.
Eileen Nason, CTC Destination Wedding Specialist, Travel Leaders of Columbia

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Wedding Album

Wedding
Album
Wynnona Haynes & Brian McMahon December 28, 2013 Photographer: Calico Photography, special to Carolina Bride

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Whitney Pellicci and David Pitts August 3, 2013 Photographer: Palmetto Duo - Dave Gilbert & Katie Hart, special to Carolina Bride

Wedding Album

Chris & Laura (Garner) McClure September 28, 2013 Photographer: Calico Photography, special to Carolina Bride

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Colishia Wilson and Christopher Dunbar September 20, 2014 Photographer: Katie Hart, special to Carolina Bride

Wedding Album
Brittney Beckham and Matt Fry May 17, 2014 Photographer: Katie Hart, special to Carolina Bride

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Emily and John McMillan June 1, 2013 Photographer: Neva Loftis, Neva Loftis Photography, special to Carolina Bride

We Put the Event in Eventus

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Call Annette Hoover (803) 608-2242 709 Woodrow Street, #307 Columbia, SC 29205

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Belk Engagement Party

reparing for your registry can be an intimidating task for most newly engaged couples. With so many options to choose from, it can be a bit overwhelming. The concept behind having a registry is to organize and control the ow of gifts for the bride and groom, as the newly weds prepare to decorate their homes with various patterns, colors and styles. Belk at Columbiana Mall and its team of certied bridal consultants are here to take the guesswork out of registering and help couples enjoy the process of picking out items for their new home together. From 1 pm to 5 pm on Sunday, February 9th, 2014, brides and grooms to be are invited to Belk at Columbiana Mall for their signature Engagement Party event. Complete with food, beverages and entertainment, couples have the opportunity to create or add to their Belk registry in a fun and relaxed environment. Couples attending the event will received a wedding registry planner and those who open a new gift registry or add to an existing one will be entered into a drawing for fabulous prizes. Belk at Columbiana Mall has a committed bridal team with two consultants, Amanda Cato and Naomie Polk, who work in harmony to help couples determine the items they need for their new home and life together. With Belks variety of fashionable and practical inventory, couples can create a personal and unique registry that includes casual and ne china, atware, crystal, cookware, kitchen essentials, bedding and bath merchandise and much more. Belk carries top styles and brands that coupleslove. Belk also offers select brands that givefree gifts to couples who have completed

theirregistry. When couples create a qualied registry,they will get a $25 Belk savings card, Cato said. Bridesto-be and their guests have access to Belk wedding registries at more than 280 Belklocations and on Belk. com, making it easy forguests to purchase gifts. Brides and grooms may register online, butwe recommend registering in a Belk store because they will get professional help and advice about what to register for, Cato said. Belk at Columbiana Mall has one of the largest stores in South Carolina, giving couples the chance to see different items in person. When registering, Polk says to start early, as it may take several times to get your registry just right, and you will need it correct in time for showers and the wedding. Guests need gift ideas for all those pre-wedding celebrations, such as bridal showers, luncheons and parties. She also says to make sure you include different price points on your registry so you give your guests choices they can afford.As far as what exactly to put on your registry, her number one tip is to know what you like andwant to try. Do you love to cook, or live for takeout? Do you entertain, or plan to start? Know what you prefer now and what your dreams are, and then choose the things that support both. There is also the option to register for gift cards. Registering for cards in various amounts gives couples the option to use them when they have a better idea of what they need. For more information about Belks Engagement Party, contact Amanda Cato or Naomie Polk at Columbiana Mall at 803-781-4100, ext 295.

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By: LaKisha Greene

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Contact Us for a Free Quote

RIVERBANKS WEDDINGS AND RECEPTIONS

or an unforgettable, magical wedding memory, consider walking on the wild side for a ceremony and reception at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Riverbanks offers a number of special venues for a perfect backdrop of viewing exotic animals, as well as lush botanical wonders. Brides and grooms are discovering that Riverbanks can be a perfect, unique venue, tailored to their every whim and wish, ranging from the most formal to the least formal. Sallie Jean Jackson, Riverbanks wedding coordinator, and Adam Suggett, group sales director at Riverbanks, make hospitality and beauty their prerogatives . We pride ourselves on being a onestop-shop for our venue services and wedding advice, but at the end of the day, we can be involved as much or as little as our brides wish, Sallie said. Many couples book a year ahead to secure their preferred date. The price range is from $8,000 to $18,000,depending on guest numbers and requirements. This include in-house catering and rentals, such as tables, chairs, linens and tableware. Drink packages, cash bars and consumption are available. Weather neednt be a factor because the staff have experience with tenting options or can move the wedding party indoors. In chilly weather, they own outdoor heat-

ers that can be hired at lower rates than rental companies. Riverbanks has preferred vendors who are recommended to the bride and groom when considering their wedding cake, photographers, orist and music. Last year, there were 46 weddings booked. May and October have been the most popular months; however, all months seem to be popular at Riverbanks. Lizzy and Andrew Green, married in June 2013, were among them. Lizzy Green viewed several venues in the Columbia area, but chose Riverbanks because the gardens were beyond beautiful and always well-kept . It also helped that and she and her husband both love being outdoors. The bride felt the Riverbanks Garden had everything she could envision for their special day. She and Andrew were not disappointed. Of the several venues, they chose the Magnolia Room, which showcases The Botanical Garden at Riverbanks. The French doors of the Magnolia Room open out onto bricked terraces, with views of fountains, cascading waters, owers blooming in season and a walled garden. Andrew and I chose for the ceremony to be in the center of the Botanical Garden, surrounded by our family and friends as well as the natural beauty of the gardens owers, greenery and fountains, Lizzy said. The setting was sim-

ply romantic. As if on cue, a rainbow appeared just as she was walking down the aisle. When their guests arrived, a band played music on the veranda for the cocktail hour, while everyone mingled around the garden. The setting was perfect and unique. For the Greens, the wedding was a dream come true. For a wedding in the gardens of the Magnolia Room, the Riverbanks staff sets up chairs facing the fountain. Friends, family and grandparents tend to be seated in the front row. The ceremony area can seat up to 150 people at one time. Magnolia Rooms indoor space is available during Zoo hours and for after Zoo hours. For evening weddings, a complimentary tram and use of the outdoor patios also are included for guests. An indoor reception can accommodate 200 people; a reception including the patio can accommodate 350 people. Adam said that Riverbanks also caters to other private, special events. The animal exhibits are popular for pre-dinner cocktail hours or networking functions because people naturally start to mingle and chat in front of interesting exhibits. These venues are ice breakers and socializing events , he said. Among them are the Reptile and Aquarium House, the Bird House, the Small Mammals Outpost. Other venues include the Giraffe Overlook and Ele-

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phant Deck. Riverbanks offers more than just a room. The staff sets up tables, chairs, and provides a dedicated event manager on the event day. A separate entrance off US 378 across the Saluda River leads to the Magnolia Room. Guests take a tram to the event. The main entrance is off I-26. We are a zoo and Botanical garden rst and have great respect for all the versatility of the venues that we offer to share with our clients., Sallie said. My passion is booking weddings in the Botanical garden and sharing the breathtaking views of stately fountains, cascading waters, seasonal owers and beautiful creations of unusual ower beds and hanging baskets from our talented horticulturalists. They work tirelessly in every season to make the colors more spectacular than the ones before. Then, there is the Ndoki Lodge , located on the zoo side that offers the rustic charm for weddings. The outside plaza area lights up and provides a special area for cocktails or cooking SMores over the re pit. The Ndoki Lodge is available for daytime or evening uses. The African themed suite boasts high beam ceilings, panoramic views of forest foliage and for daytime guests, even the opportunity to see an elephant visiting its nearby watering hole or a meerkat peering in. In-house tables, chairs, standard linens, set up cleanup and an event manager are included in the price. After hours, use of Ndokis outdoor patio and re pit are available at no extra cost. An indoor reception can accommodate 350 people; a reception including the patio, can accommodate 500 people. As a plus, all wedding Zoo prots go back into animal conservation, helping critically endangered animals and their habitats in the U.S. and around the world, Adam said. Prots could help feed animals, refurbish exhibits or fund global conservation projects that we are a part of. For information, please contact wedding coordinator Sallie Jean Jackson at her direct line (803) 602-0848 or the event department at (803) 602-0900. Group Sales Director Adam Suggett also is available at (803) 602-0864.
By: Kay Gordon Photos Provided By: Riverbanks Zoo

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Custom Wedding & Special Occasion Cakes

Serving greater Columbia, Camden & Lexington since 2005

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(803) 691-1559 www.vintagebakery.com

Catering Considerations
food for thought
Whos not a fan of food? It can be one of the most important aspects of your wedding, and nding 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 specically 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 nal head count? Can you be given a list of references?

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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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 _________________________________________________________________________________________ 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

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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

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
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300 Spring Valley Rd., Columbia, SC 29223 (803) 788-3080 www.springvalleycc.com

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 Brookland Baptist 1066 Sunset Boulevard West Columbia, S.C. 2916 Contact: K.Allen Campbell, Events Coordinator www.brooklandbaptist.org (803) 796-7525 Buck Ridge Plantation 231 Gundog Trail, Neeses Banquet hall, covered veranda, gazebo
Contact: Event Manager w ww.buckridge.com 803-531-8408

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 Doubletree by Hilton 2100 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29210
Contact: Kelly Smith Kelly.Smith@DoubleTreeSC.com 803.744.0141

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 EventUs, LLC 709 Woodrow St, #307, Columbia, SC 29205 Contact: Annette Hoover 803.608.2242 Francis Marion Hotel 387 King Street, Charleston, SC 29403
Contact: Tressa Wright, Director of Sales and Marketing www.francismarioncharleston.com 843-937-8689 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

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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

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.

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 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 Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia Botanical Gardens, Unique Animal Houses, Magnolia Room,
and Ndoki Lodge Contact: planyourevent@riverbanks.org www.riverbanks.org/planyourevent 803-602-0900

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 Senates End 316 Senate St., Columbia, SC 29201
Contact: Event Manager 803.748.4144 duprecatering.com 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 Tronco's Catering & Special Events The Medallion Center 7309 Garners Ferry Road, Columbia
Contemporary conference and banquet facility with grand ballroom, salons, board rooms &spacious entrance foyer Contact: Katy Brennan or Page Crenshaw www.troncos.com 803-256-1222

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

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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

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

Mitchell House and Gardens

An Elegant Venue for your Wedding, Reception, Social or Business Event

Stationery
checklist
Save-The-Date Cards Wedding Invitations

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

803.359.5325

Announcement Cards Reception Cards

Thats me, wearing braces on my wedding day, smiling, smiling, smiling, smiling. smiling.

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

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Incognito braces are placed behind your teeth so no one will know youre wearing braces unless you tell them.

Th The eo only nly b braces races made for your wedding photos.

Napkins Seating Place Cards Reception Favors

Pitner Orthodontics

www.drpitner.com 803 781.5225

Personal Stationery

Advertiser Index

Catering

Photography

MAMAS HOME COOKIN BAND

Call or Email for your custom Quote.
B an d

Brodiefoto
Specializing in Strong Portraits, Real Moments, and Amazing Details

803-957-4444

Mhcookin1@windstream.net www.mamashomecookin.com
real. simple.

www.ColumbiaWeddingPhotography.com

SEAWELLS catering and events

Established 1946

Full Services At Our Venue Or Yours.

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

Calico-Photography.com

803-272-8302

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

Transportation

Officiant, Pre-Marriage Counseling

Wedding Officiant and Marriage Planning

COLUMBIA CARRIAGE WORKS

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Your wedding last thirty minutes. Your marriage last forever.

803-528-9343 www.CarolinaWeddingVow.com

Rev. Kevin M. Roberts

www.ColumbiaCarriageWorks.com ColumbiaCarriage@aol.com

Weddings Parties Formal & Special Events 803-227-3833

Advertiser Index

Wedding Attire

Wedding Entertainment

YOUR GROOMS TUX IS FREE! Call for details.

2818 Devine St - Columbia, SC 29205 803-771-2700 - www.brittonsofcolumbia.com
Weekdays 10am-7pm; Sat 10am-6pm; Other hours by appointment

DJs, Bands, Musicians, Custom Lighting, Special Effects, Slideshows, & Photo Booths

1537 Main St Suite B, Columbia, SC 29201

803.429.6001 www.WeAreBigTime.com Wedding Planners

Exclusive Plus Size Bridal Collection

Branch Carter Photography

abfabeventplanning@gmail.com www.abfabeventplanning.com

(803) 575-0441

www.elegantbridals.com

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

PLANNING + DESIGN + COORDINATION

ROXANNE PRICE

803.237.7682

CERTIFIED BY THE ASSOCIATION OF BRIDAL CONSULTANTS

Full Service Bridal Salon

Ask about our Wedding Package!
P: 803.419.4471 | F: 803.419.2404
The Shops of ONeil Court, 224 ONeil Court, Columbia, SC www.jordansmodernbrideandgroom.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

Wedding Cakes

Wedding & Reception Sites

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BANQUET AND CONFERENCE CENTER

Memorable Wedding and Grooms Cakes

BonnieBrunt.com
Phone: 803-655-7812

1066 Sunset Blvd, West Colu Columbia mbia Contact: Marnie Rob inson 80 3-744-7909 or Monique Flowers 803-744-7 Robinson 803-744-7909 803-744-7927

Advertiser Index

Wedding & Reception Sites cont.

Wedding & Reception Sites cont.

COLUMBIA CONFERENCE CENTER

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

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

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

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

SPRING VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

Kelly Smith, Wedding Specialist Kelly.Smith@DoubleTreeSC.com Phone (803) 744-0141 Fax (803) 731-4892 www.ColumbiaSouthCarolina.DoubleTree.com

We believe its the details that make the difference.

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

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

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

Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort

Happily ever after begins here.

1-866-522-4399 FrippIslandResort.com

Mitchell House and Gardens

Events with Southern Gracious Charm

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

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

call (803)771-8351

Happily Ever Aft er

Ashley Adamson & Chad Bills August 31. 2013

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Ashley and Chad were married at the Corley Mill House and Garden on August 31st. They left their reception in Ashleys grandfathers 1984 Chevrolet truck, that both Ashley and her brother drove during high school.

Photographs provided by Neva Loftis, Special to Carolina Bride