A Southern ‘I Do’

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).

Happiest girl in the world!

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.

Completely obsessed. Do you see the handkerchief?

The historic Inn at Hunt Phelan. Check out the front door, hidden by the bushes, in the photo below.

A wreath on the front door welcomes guests.

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.

The welcome table

The breathtaking aisle flowers

The wooden cross was handmade by Craig's uncle

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.

Even in the heat, this choir brought us to out feet!

Oh Happy Day!

Are they not adorable? So in love….

It's official!

Margaret with her beautiful sister and sisters-in-law. Yes, all were in boots!

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.

A comfy spot out of the sun

The hats kept the heat at bay while ensuring the style was perfectly southern. Yes, you can wear red to a wedding when done like this!

Another tres chic hat. I do think Kate Middleton fever has made Americans more open to hats.

Some that opted away from a hat still adorned some hair candy.

Love the pairing of pretty flowers and fresh herbs

Breathtaking! Garden District never fails to wow!

Mint for the mint juleps and iced tea.

Mason jars used for tea

The food was brunch-themed with a southern twist and included tasty treats like chicken and waffles, donut holes, bacon brioche and breakfast tacos.

The biggest hit of the reception...donut holes!

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.

Fans and big hats= a perfect combo for a southern wedding in the Memphis heat.

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.

Making their grand exit amidst a sea of rose petals

A perfect ending to the perfect day with the King of Memphis...doesn't get much better than that!

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