This elegant Georgia wedding by Anna K Photography features both a traditional church wedding and a whimsical reception, complete with lawn games and burlap!  It also features one of my most favorite elements I’ve ever seen – a touching “first look” with the bride’s father. The bride and groom, Allie and Bryan, met in a college business class, and started planning their wedding after Allie moved to Savannah for her Master’s Degree.  The island where Allie grew up, St. Simons Island, provided the perfect backdrop to their special day!

From the bride:

I LOVE red so I knew that’s what I wanted. Red in a summer wedding sounds hard to pull off so I picked a bright red and paired it with khaki suits and they really popped. Burlap matched the khaki suits so I chose to use burlap to accent things. I wanted everything to be traditional; the music, the church, the order of things. My friends were really good about sharing magazines or websites and their ideas too!

I really looked at my budget when deciding on my vendors. I also used recommendations since it was in my hometown. It’s also important to see who you’re comfortable with. All my vendors felt like family by the end of it all :) I definitely wasn’t afraid to go to them with any questions and ask for help! Also, if they seem unreliable in the beginning as far as returning phone calls and emails… Then they probably are. Choose someone else. Our florists was basically impossible to reach. We had some issues with the flowers when they were delivered and she would not respond. But it was nothing a couple bridesmaids couldn’t fix by picking a few flowers :)

We had “day of” coordinators that did everything I needed! They were mother and daughter and they were awesome! They worked with our caterer to create the perfect set-up. The caterer’s staff set up all the tables and linens while the coordinators did the center pieces and details; bows, candles, favors, etc. The coordinators had our event schedule so they were good about putting us where we needed to be :) I absolutely loved our photographer! She kept up with the schedule as well and captured each special moment. She helped to create the timeline of events and gave structure to the day. We definitely could not have done it without her!

I looooved my dress for sure. It was just what I wanted; fluffy but fitted and very comfortable. I love the look of red and khaki- the pictures of the bridal party are some of my favorite. I chose to put a red flower in my hair for the reception and I loved that too.

We had yard games, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and lighthouse tours during the time guest were waiting for the bride and groom to arrive. Everyone seemed to really enjoy this and they were occupied! We church and lighthouse (reception area) were right across the street from each other. The hotel where our guests stayed was right across the street too. All these were next to the beach and the village area. All walking distance to a whole lot of fun!

Enjoy the day!! All the planning is worth it. Make sure to make a list of all the photos you want taken. We missed a few people and shots that we wanted. Give your lists and timeline to your coordinator or others in charge and TRUST them to take care of it. This made our big day so relaxing and allowed us to take in the moments… Imagine the best day ever… And your wedding day will be even better!

I have to admit, I adore the “daddy-daughter first look” idea, and I love the lawn games too! Adding these personal touches makes any wedding – traditional or not – uniquely the couple’s. What personal touches are you planning to add at your wedding?

xoxo, Elisa

Vendors who made it all happen…