Today’s post was written by Lauren, from StyleBlueprint Memphis.
It was just about a year ago that my college friends and I all gathered in Memphis to celebrate the marriage of one of my nearest and dearest friends, in true southern fashion. From start to finish, everything about this wedding oozed southern charm. Margaret, having thought about this day for quite some time, knew she wanted a noon wedding with a vintage flare…and of course, she didn’t disappoint.
Sources listed at the end. Photography by Annabella Brandon (Asian Bees).
From the beautiful handkerchief wedding invitations (yes, the invitation was actually wrapped in a handkerchief inside the envelope!) to the location at the historic Inn at Hunt Phelan*, this wedding was one that will forever be etched in my mind as one of the most personable and beautiful weddings I have ever been a part of.
*The Inn at Hunt Phelan is currently closed. We don’t have any information on when/if it will reopen.
I would have expected nothing less from my sweet friend. It painted the perfect picture of who these two are and truly showcased where their roots began to the day they said, “I Do.”
Can’t forget the cowboy boots that the bride wore, with “I do” in rhinestones!
The ceremony was on the front lawn of the Hunt Phelan among the beautiful oak trees. Although Memphis delivered one of the hottest days on record, the weather almost played the perfect character in this wedding, as many of the guests wore big hats and fanned themselves with personalized fans.
As all their loved ones watched, Margaret and Craig exchanged their vows while a full gospel choir serenaded the guests with goosebump-inducing renditions of Shout to the Lord, Oh Happy Day and Joyful, Joyful.
Are they not adorable? So in love….
The reception was held in the gardens and on the back porch of the main house – it was lovely in every sense of the word. Wicker couches, over sized umbrellas and rustic flower arrangements of hydrangea, roses and peonies set the tone for this beautifully staged reception. And mint juleps, served in actual mint julep cups that Margaret had collected over the years, gave a nod to the groom’s Kentucky roots.
The food was brunch-themed with a southern twist and included tasty treats like chicken and waffles, donut holes, bacon brioche and breakfast tacos.
Stepping away from tradition, instead of a wedding cake, the bride and groom opted for mini bundt cakes that were given as party favors to their guests. A ‘thank you’ sign extended the couple’s graciousness and ensured that every guest knew how much their attendance was appreciated.
A special thank you to the guests
Lining up to bid the bride and groom adieu, the guests could have cared less about the 103 heat. We were all wrapped up in the love present on this splendid day.
When the last hugs were given, this happy couple was driven away in classic Memphis style – in an old pink Cadillac with blue suede shoes hanging from the bumper.
This wedding was truly one for the record books and captured Margaret and Craig’s personalities to a tee. Even in the stifling, humid heat, Margaret and Craig managed to create southern hospitality at its best with lots of charm and a whole lot of love! Happy (almost) Anniversary to one of the sweetest couples I know! Cheers to many more years of wedded bliss!
Sources:
Flowers: Garden District
Wedding planners: Southern Event Planners
Paper products, signs: Original Ink
Departure Car: Memphis Safari Tour
Photographer: Annabella Brandon (Asian Bees)
Band: Memphis Ice Breakers- Ram Entertainment
Gospel Choir: Billy Rivers and the Angelic Voices of Faith
Instrumental: Beverly and Howard Vance Duo
Ceremony Location/Reception Location: The Inn at Hunt Phelan
Catering: The Inn at Hunt Phelan
Invitations (hankies): Lucky Luxe Invitations
Save the Dates: RSVP Stationers
Mini Bundt Cakes: Brown Baguette Bakery
Linens/Rentals: Unique Event Rentals
