A Color Filled Garden-Inspired Wedding With Fun And Unique Details

Annie + John’s wedding will always hold a special place in my heart because it was the second time I had the pleasure of working with this sweet family! I had helped Annies older sister, Maggie, with her wedding back in 2017. So it was just a true joy to have the chance to work with this amazing family again!

And what a thrill to see Annie + John’s wedding featured on the front page of Style Me Pretty today!

Our couple wanted to have a wedding day that felt blissful, yet silly. "Our wedding style was to keep things simple and make things easy for our guests, since all but 2 guests were from out of town," says Annie. "We wanted to keep it fun and focused on what the day was about: celebrating our love." The wedding ceremony took place at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Uptown Charlotte, followed by a reception at the Mint Museum Uptown, a modern art museum with breathtaking views of the city.

The inspiration behind the design was to bring the outdoors indoors. Annie notes, “We would have loved to have an outside wedding, but didn't want to be dependent on weather, so hoped for a design that would bring the outside inside." With the talented of New Creations Flower Company, we installed a canopy of greenery, which followed twinkle lights, along the ceiling of the Mint Museum's Grand Room. The color palette was bright and cheerful, with tones of pink and lavender accented with greenery. We also included ivy into the floral recipe as a nod to the couple's former home of Chicago, and their mutual love of Wrigley Field and their favorite baseball team, the Cubs.

One of Annie's favorite details was a piece of lace from her mom's wedding dress, which was used as a wrap around the bridal bouquet. When asked about her favorite moment from her wedding day, Annie said, "My favorite moment was the first look!" She adds, "After getting ready all morning, I was just really excited to see John and get to give him a big hug. It was so nice to get to see him before the ceremony and connect." 

Fun was the name of the game! And our couple wanted to do something different than what their friends and family might have seen at past weddings. They decided to do a floor plan that was predominantly lounge furniture, to create an atmosphere that felt more casual and encouraged guests to mingle. Annie + John also decided to forego a traditional wedding cake, and decided to offer guests cookies as a sweet treat to cap off the night. We displayed the cookie varieties on two gold shelves, among candles and votives. Lastly, Annie + John choose to get married in June in Charlotte, when the weather can be quite warm. So, they decided to greet guests at the reception with strawberry margarita push-pops - another way to infuse fun into their celebration and offer guests something a bit different.

Annie + John were both very family oriented and come from large families. So of course we had to include the couple's black lab, Finny, in the wedding day. "My dress had pockets and the one item I had with me during the wedding was Finny's bowtie - he looked so handsome in the pictures wearing his bow tie!," said Annie.

Oh how I love this family and this couple! Everything about this wedding day was a dream come true, and I’m so excited to share their wedding day with you!

Many thanks to our talented vendor team:

Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Rach Loves Troy
Flowers: New Creations Flower Company
Hair + Makeup: Be Pretty
Videography: Shamus Coneys Films
Ceremony Venue: St Peter’s Catholic Church
Reception Venue: Mint Museum Uptown
Catering: Something Classic
Bride’s Dress: J Majors
Paper Goods: Girl Tribe Creative
Lounge Rentals: Old South Vintage Rentals
Rentals: Party Reflections and Party Tables
Lighting: Wink Lighting
Cookies: SugarBomb Sweets
DJ: Split Second Sound

Thank you, Annie + John, for trusting us to be a part of your celebration!

XO,
A.

A Blush and Pink, Boho-Inspired Wedding in North Carolina

I love a bride that isn’t afraid to be bold! When I met with McKenna to talk about her wedding - 3 months out from the date, mind you - she mentioned that she wanted to create something that was unique to her personal style. Which included her signature color - PINK! But she didn’t want the typical southern blush wedding. So, we turned up the color, and mixed in lots of layers and texture, all while staying true to our brides wishes for a chic, boho vibe.

I’ve done quite a few weddings on a shortened timeline. And each one always different, because each couple is different! I honestly love it. There is definitely something to be said about having a longer engagement, with plenty of time to plan and sort through ideas. But the challenge and thrill of getting 12+ months of work done within 3 months is quite thrilling for me! And trust me, shorter engagements don’t necessarily mean less work - we definitely fit in 12+ months of work into that timeframe. I honestly don’t think you can even tell for a second that we planned this wedding within 3 months.

True story: McKenna + Russ were originally planning to get married at a different venue when we first met. But after I did a venue tour of Board & Batten Events, and shared it on Instagram, she called me and asked if it would be crazy to switch venues. I didn’t think it was crazy at all - I thought it was a great idea, and we got to work immediately with a new venue in mind!

We had an all-start team that worked so hard to make sure McKenna + Russ had the best day ever. As a wedding planner + designer, your team is everything. Couples hire me to make sure that their day is as perfect as can be. So, it’s my job to make sure I assemble a killer team that can execute my couples vision and desires for their event. And trust me - this team of mine just knocked it out of the park!

McKenna + Russ were such a joy to work with. And seeing everything come together for them was so much fun! I’m excited to relive their special day and share some of my favorite photos, as well as a clip from their wedding video, below.

Oh, and we we’re published! Don’t miss our feature over on 100 Layer Cake!

Fun Fact: We flipped this room in 30 mintues from ceremony to reception!

Huge thank you to our talented team of vendors!

Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Breathe J Photography
Flowers: New Creations Flower Company
Hair + Makeup: Lindsey Regan Thorne with Be Pretty Charlotte
VIdeography: Humming Meadow Productions
Specialty Paper: Elisabeth Rose
Cake: Abigail’s
Wedding Dress: Willow by Watters from BHLDN
Venue + Catering: Board & Batten Events

How awesome is this video from Humming Meadow Productions?! I love when our clients choose to hire a videographer. It gives couples a whole new perspective on a day that goes by way too quickly!

Thank you, McKenna + Russ, for allowing The Graceful Host to be a part of your special day! We sure do love y’all!

XO,
A.

A Bold Color Palette That Will Blow You Away in Charlotte, NC

It’s not very often we meet a couple who really wants to step out of the box. But this couple was all about unique and bold details that were a reflection of their personal style.

This wedding was definitely one for the books, in more ways than one. First, we started working with Jennifer + John just 4 months prior to their wedding date. And second, their wedding was almost derailed by Hurricane Florence, who tried really hard to crash the party! The whole executing a wedding during a hurricane thing was quite a challenge. Oh, and did I mention that I was 37 weeks pregnant at the time?! Like I said, a challenge that was one for the books. But I LOVE a challenge, y’all!

Ok, so back to the details! The color palette just blows me away - I’m in love with these moody tones! Jennifer’s vision was very clear. She wanted to create a lounge-inspired setting for her guests, where conversation and good food can be enjoyed. Our floor plan was very lounge dominant, which I just loved! Working with color isn’t something I always get to do, so it was really fun designing this wedding with Jennifer + John.

Our vendor team was really amazing for this wedding. Everyone came together to make sure that Jennifer + John had the best day, despite the forecast putting us all to the test!
Planning + design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Morning Wild Photography
Flowers: New Creations Flower Company
Venue: Mint Museum Uptown
Paper Goods: Elisabeth Rose
Catering: Something Classic
Dress: Theia Couture
Dress Boutique: Ladies Of Lineage
Hair and Makeup: Makeup by Jenny Le
Cake: The Wow Factor Cakes
Furniture + Lounge Rentals: Crush Event Rentals
Chair Rentals + Draping: Carolinas Luxury Event Rentals
Lighting: Wink Lighting
Linens: Nuage Designs
Linens: Party Reflections

Enjoy some of my favorite photos from Jennifer + John’s wedding!

Turns out that a wedding during a hurricane can be pretty magical. I’m super grateful to the team of professionals that executed everything so beautifully for our couple. And a huge thanks to Jennifer + John for allowing The Graceful Host to be a part of your special day!

XOXO,
A.

This Couples Blush And Ivory Wedding at the Ritz Carlton Urban Garden Will Make You Swoon

We kicked off 2019 with Molly + Adam’s beautiful wedding at the Ritz Carlton Urban Garden in Uptown Charlotte. I adore this couple so much! They are just as sweet as pie, and planning with them was such a joy.

We booked the Urban Garden at the Ritz Carlton for their reception because this unique space was a perfect fit for this outdoors loving couple’s February celebration. One reason I love the Urban Garden is because of all the beautiful light the comes pouring in from the windows, and the neutral look of the venue. It’s so easy to put your own personality on a space like this because there isn’t any competing decor. The color palette Molly chose was soft and romantic, with a delicate feminine touch, incorporating blush, ivory and champagne tones. Molly + Adam hosted just over 200 guests with a delicious plated meal for their reception style. Having a really fun party for all their loved ones was a priority for our bride + groom. So we booked a top-notch band for the reception entertainment, and included fun lounge furniture near the dance floor for a more intimate feel to the space. Our couple and their guests danced the night away!

I’m so excited that Molly + Adam’s wedding has been published in the Summer/Fall 2019 issue of The Carolinas Magazine!

Huge thanks to our talented team of vendors who helped make Molly + Adam’s day so perfect!
Photography: Cheyenne Schultz Photography
Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Flowers: New Creations Flower Company
Paper Goods: Elisabeth Rose
Videography: Crown Alley Films
Church: Myers Park United Methodist Church
Venue: Ritz Carlton Urban Garden
Entertainment: Atlanta Groove Factory
Lounge Furniture: Old South Vintage Rentals
Hair + Makeup: Charisse with Be Pretty Charlotte
Brides Dress: Rivini Bridal from Hayden Olivia
Linens: Nuage Designs
Lighting: Wink Lighting
Draping + Rentals: Party Reflections
Ceremony Musicians: Queen City Ensemble

Molly + Adam, thank you so much for letting us be a part of your special day! We love y’all!

XO,
A.

An Elegant Ballroom Wedding At The Ballantyne Hotel

I hate when I get behind on blogging - because keeping these gorgeous images to myself is so hard! But I’m back, and playing a bit of catch-up with some of our beautiful weddings!

Katie + Jack are two of the nicest, and most fun people I know. I absolutely LOVED being a part of their wedding planning! There was always an abundance of laughter at our meetings. An even though it’s been almost a year since we celebrated Katie + Jack, their wedding is still so fresh in my mind. It was an epic party, y’all!! I’m so excited to share some of my favorite photos from their gorgeous, perfect wedding day.

Our bride, Katie, choose the Ballantyne Ballroom at the Ballantyne Hotel for the reception. It was a classic ballroom, which is what she was looking for in a reception space. Katie’s style is elegant, feminine, and fun. With a color palette of blush, rose gold, ivory, and champagne, we transformed the Ballantyne Ballroom. I mean, just wait until you see the draping! (Thanks, Bob!) When we first started out planning, Katie mentioned that she wanted to host a great party. So we aimed to create an environment that would give our couple the epic party they wanted - that meant incredible food, a top notch bar, and hiring the best entertainment. Katie was all about the details, which is something I can very much appreciate. From custom welcome boxes to the delicious late night snack, every single detail guests experienced was a perfect reflection of Katie + Jack! And when the bride cries tears of joy saying “I’m just so happy” …. you know you did your job!

It was just the best day ever! I’m so grateful to have gotten the opportunity to be a part of Katie + Jack’s beautiful wedding day. And a huge thanks to our talented team of vendors who helped make this day so special and flawless!

Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Caroline Lima Photography
Flowers: New Creations Flower Company
Reception Venue: Ballantyne Hotel
Ceremony Venue: St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church
Cake: Wow Factor Cakes
Rentals: Party Reflections
Draping: Carolinas Luxury Event Rentals
Paper Goods: Girl Tribe Creative
Hair + Makeup: Makeup by Jenny Le
Dress: Romona Keveza
Dress Boutique: Ladies Of Lineage Bridal
Ceremony Musicians: Queen City Ensemble

Featured: A Beautiful Pastel Colored Wedding at Foundation For The Carolinas

It’s always so exciting to see our couples featured on blogs and in magazines. I’m so thrilled to see Sarah + Andrew’s gorgeous spring wedding at Foundations For The Carolinas featured on Grey Likes Weddings today!

Working with Sarah and her mom was so much fun. Sarah is a bride who knew what she wanted, and I was so excited to bring her vision to life! Our beautiful bride chose a spring-inspired color palette of dusty blue, peach, blush, and ivory, with accents of rose gold. The colors reflect the bride and grooms personalities and style - elegant and classic, yet still modern and fun! She and Andrew chose the Foundation For The Carolinas as their venue because of the gorgeous views of Uptown Charlotte.

Family is important to Sarah and Andrew. And while there were many thoughtful details throughout their wedding, one of Sarah's favorite personal details involved her wedding day jewelry - a sapphire and diamond ring that belonged to my grandmother, borrowed from her mom, as her something borrowed, something blue and something old. As her something new, she wore a rose gold bracelet given to her by her best friend and Maid of Honor.

After the wedding, I asked Sarah what was her favorite moment of the day was - and she said, the first look. "We debated even doing a first look because we weren't sure if it would take some of the magic away from seeing each other when I walked down the aisle," she said. "But I am so, so glad we did this! Having the first look really calmed my nerves and grounded me for the day." Sarah goes on to say that not rushing through portraits or family photos, especially with her sister, was important." And one of my favorite memories was the room reveal with Sarah. We had been working together for about 14 months to plan and design her wedding. It’s always exciting to do a room reveal with my couples - but especially when we’ve been dreaming of this day for so long! To see Sarah and Andrew’s vision come to life was just the best feeling!

I love this, too, and just had to share …. I had asked Sarah to reflect on her wedding day, and she says, "I actually debated on having a smaller wedding or having a bigger wedding because it is honestly a lot of money to spend on one day. However, after having the wedding I would never have a smaller wedding. There is truly something to be said about having all of your family and best friends in one room to celebrate you. The day did go by fast, but the memories we made we will have forever. Both of us look back and remember how much fun we had, and every time we run into someone that was there they always bring up how amazing our wedding was and it makes us so happy!"

Sarah and Andrew (and Lois!), working with you two was a dream! I’m so honored to have been a part of your wedding, and I’m over the moon to finally share the beautiful photos from your perfect day!

Thanks to our vendor team for all their talent and hard work!
Wedding Planner + Designer: The Graceful Host
Photography: Josh Deaton Photography
Floral Design: New Creations Flower Company
Paper Goods: Elisabeth Rose Social Stationery
Hair & Make-up: Be Pretty (Lindsey Regan Thorne)
Ceremony + Reception Venue: Foundation For The Carolinas
Catering: Best Impressions Catering
Reception Entertainment: The Dickens
Cake: Wow Factor Cakes
Rentals: Party Reflections
Linens: La Tavola
Table Top Rentals: Emerson James
Furniture Rentals: Old South Vintage Rentals
Uplighting: Wink Lighting
Wedding Dress Designer: Modern Trousseau
Wedding Dress Boutique: Hayden Olivia
Bridesmaid Dresses: Jenny Yoo from Brideside
Grooms Attire: The Black Tux

A Colorful and Whimsical Wedding at the Mint Museum Uptown in Charlotte

Jessie + Austin met in high school, but never dated. It took a few years of persistence from Austin, with Jessie "brutally shutting him down" as she says, for her to agree to a date with Austin. It was after that first date the summer of their freshman year of college that Jessie fell head over heels for Austin! And after several months of flirting and long distance (don't worry - Austin made her sweat a bit. Unknowingly, of course!), they made their relationship official.

You'll never meet a couple more madly in love or incredibly down to Earth as Jessie + Austin. They are the life of the party and love to have fun in every situation. Their connection is unmistakeable! Just wait until you see their gorgeous images from Anchor & Veil Photography. They never shy away from adventure and new experiences. Trying new restaurants and recipes and exploring new places is one of their favorite things to do together. But as much fun as going out can be, they also love lay low by make a pallet on the floor and watch moves with some wine in tow.

Jessie came to me wanting to create a unique experience for her loved ones. She said she wanted it to feel like one big party, with an amazing atmosphere, great food and lots of dancing - not stuffy or stiff, or too formal. Our sweet bride had a vision, and she was drawing inspiration from many different color palettes and styles - from whimsical and classic to sweet and modern. She didn't quite know where to begin and how to sort through everything. As we when through my design process, we were able to get to the heart of her vision and create a cohesive design that captured our bride's gorgeous style. The end result felt fun, eclectic and most importantly, different - and that is exactly what Jessie wanted! We infused a vibrant color palette into our design, using a range of purples, burgundy, pinks, creams, and pale yellow with abundant amounts of greenery for an ultra-romantic touch. It is traditional with a twist, as we mixed aesthetics to create a detailed and color-filled day for this sweet-as-can-be couple!

Huge thanks to our talented team of vendors who made this day so perfect for Jessie + Austin!
Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Anchor & Veil Photography
Flowers: New Creations Flower Company
Paper Goods: Elisabeth Rose Social Stationery
Videography: Brian Bunn Films
Cake: The Wow Factor Cakes
Rentals: Party Reflections
Catering: Something Classic Catering
Venue: The Mint Museum Uptown
Officiant: Rev Rebecca Nagy
Hair: Mirror Bomb Studios
Makeup: Erin Ashley Makeup
Dress: Romona Keveža
Dress Boutique: Ladies Of Lineage
Bridesmaid Dresses: Brideside
Groomsmen Attire: The Black Tux
Entertainment: Split Second Sound

Jessie + Austin, you two are such a joy to know! I loved every second of our time planning together and your perfect wedding day. Thank you for trusting myself and my team to execute your vision! Love you both!

XO,
A.

A Greenery-Filled Tented Wedding at Champagne Manor

It's a happy day today because Alyson + Matthew's Champagne Manor wedding is featured on Style Me Pretty today! I don't know about you, but reliving this gorgeous summer wedding has me so eager for warmer weather!

Alyson + Matthew were married in a family-centered ceremony, with their children by their side and surrounded by close family and friends, on August 12th at Champagne Manor in Monroe, North Carolina.  They have built a beautiful life together with their blended family, and they wanted to create a celebration of their love for one another and their new beginning at husband + wife. Getting to know this sweet family was such a joy!

What you might not know by looking at the photos is that the entire wedding was planned in less than 4 months. That's right - all this came together in just 4 months! Our gorgeous bride, Alyson, has amazing style and incredible taste, so there was no detail was spared. Our design was inspired by Earth tones and organic textures, with a feminine undertone, and it was achieved using a somewhat neutral palette of mauve, peach, ivory, dove grey, and greenery. The atmosphere was chic, yet relaxed, incorporating upholstered lounge areas into their open seating floor plan. One of my favorite details was the 8'x8' hanging installation of greenery and glass orbs with tea lights that highlighted the dance floor and was the central feature in our tent.

Holding on to beautiful weddings like this one is not easy! I've been bursting at the seams to share every little detail with you ... so at long last, here are some of my favorites from Alyson + Matthew's big day!

How absolutely adorable is their daughter?! She is the cutest little thing and my heart just melts looking at these sweet photos of her with her beautiful mama!

Thank you Alyson + Matthew for allowing myself and my team to be a part of this celebration and special time in your lives! And to our wonderful team of talented vendors - thank you for all your hard work to make this day so beautiful and memorable for this sweet couple!
Photography: Perry Vaile Photography
Flowers: New Creations Flower Company
Venue: Champagne Manor
Paper Goods: Pink Toast Ink
Beauty: Lindsey Regan Thorne of Be Pretty
Cake: Wow Factor Cakes
Rentals: Old South Vintage Rentals
Rentals, Lighting, Draping: Crush Event Rentals
Rentals: Party Reflections
Rentals: La Tavola
Catering + Bar: Best Impressions Caterers
Brides Dress: J. Majors Bridal
Bridesmaid Dress: Show Me Your MuMu

XO,
A.

Real Wedding + Featured: Southern Charm at Trump National Golf Course

I am just over the moon to see Ellyn + William's wedding featured on Carats + Cake last week! It's about time I finally share photos from this gorgeous spring wedding we had the pleasure to plan + design. Get ready, y'all - you're about to meet two of the sweetest souls on Earth! Ellyn + William met at work, and after hanging out professionally for quite some time, they made it official with a date outside of work. And soon, this workplace meeting turned into an international love story, with William living outside the US. And after years of distance, they're finally together... and finally Mr. and Mrs.!

Family is everything to Ellyn + William, so it was really important to make family a priority on their special day. The bridal party was made up of siblings and close friends, and the couples nieces and nephews joined in as (the most adorable!) flower girls and ring bearers. Each guest table at the reception was given a name that held special meaning to the bride + grooms families. And of course, there were special heirlooms incorporated into their love story. The groom now wears his grandfathers wedding band, the stone in the brides engagement ring is from her mother, and the charm on the bride's bouquet is in memory of her late father.

The only way we can describe this wedding style is timeless elegance, with a whole lot of grace and Southern charm. The couple chose a classic color palette of ivory, greenery, and a soft blush. It was absolutely perfect for this spring, lakefront wedding. Ellyn + William actually chose Trump National Golf Club because of it's waterside location, as a nod to their love of being out on the water. And after the wedding, the newlyweds left the reception on the grooms family boat! Working with this sweet family was such a pleasure + an honor! I loved getting to be a part of this fabulous celebration!

Huge thanks to our amazing vendor team, who helped give Ellyn + William the dreamiest wedding day!

Wedding Planner + Designer: The Graceful Host
Photography: Old South Studios
Reception Venue, Catering + Cake Design: Trump National Golf Club, Charlotte
Floral Design: Lily Greenthumbs
Ceremony Venue: Williamson’s Chapel United Methodist Church
Ceremony + Cocktail Hour Musicians: Queen City Ensemble
Reception Entertainment: Atlanta Showstoppers
Hair: Mirror Bomb Studio
Makeup: Erin Ashley Makeup
Lounge Furniture: Old South Vintage Rentals
Draping, Lighting, Staging, Linens: Party Reflections
Rentals: Cooke Rentals
Linens: Nuage Designs
Wedding Dress Designer: Mikaella Bridal
Wedding Dress Boutique: J Majors Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaid Dresses: BHLDN
Groom + Groomsmen Attire: Mens Warehouse

Thank you Ellyn + William for allowing us to be a part of your special day! It was such an honor to witness your gorgeous day + to celebrate you both! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness as you begin this next chapter in your lives!

XO,
A.

Real Wedding: Elegance in Uptown Charlotte at the Mint Museum

I had the pleasure of working with the best couple ever last summer! Jana + Jordan are so much fun to be around - it made wedding planning an absolute blast! When I first met with Jana + Jordan, we talked about their wedding being centered around a really great party. And that's exactly what they got! Their wedding day was full of joy and laughter, as they were surrounded by all their friends and family on a beautiful summer North Carolina day. Jana's vision for her wedding was simple elegance with an air of sophistication, in a neutral color palette of champagne, blush, and ivory, with pops of greenery. I love the hanging lampshades over some of the long tables, with a lush garland along the center of the table! It was such a statement piece, and looked incredible in the Grand Room at the Mint Museum Uptown. The cake was absolute perfection, and the definition of simple elegance with textured icing and sweet little flowers clusters on the cake tiers. We had custom monograms created for Jana + Jordan that was incorporated into all their paper goods and details. I really love using monograms (or some sort of symbol) with my clients because it's a fun, memorable keepsake to have after your wedding is over. Plus, it's a great way to really brand your event! We placed their gorgeous monogram on wedding day details like the ceremony program, wedding koozies and cocktail napkins, which is another great way to personalize your special day.

I'm pretty obsessed with theses photos by Crystal Stokes Photography from Jana + Jordan's wedding day, and I'm excited to share with you some of my favorites from this gorgeous summer wedding at the Mint Museum Uptown.

These portraits in a little tucked away courtyard in Uptown Charlotte are my favorites!! How gorgeous are these two?!

Choreographed first dance for the win! This spin is everything, too!

Jana + Jordan, being a part of your wedding was such an honor! Seriously, can we do it again? I'm grateful to have had the chance to get to know you both and help you plan for your special day. So much love to you two!

And a huge thanks to the talented vendor team that made this wedding dreamy day so special
Planning + Design: The Graceful Host 
Photography: Crystal Stokes Photography
Floral Design: New Creations Flower Company
Paper Goods: Pink Toast Ink
Cake: Wow Factor Cakes
Videography: Crown Alley Films
Catering: Something Classic
Entertaining: The Retreat via Sam Hill Entertainment
Venue: Mint Museum Uptown
Hair: Mirror Bomb Studios
Makeup: Erin Ashley Makeup
Chair Rentals: Carolinas Luxury Rentals
Linens: Party Reflections  & Party Tables
Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier Bridal from Nitsa's Apparel
Bridesmaid Dresses: J Crew
Brides Shoes: Kate Spade

XO,
A.

Real Wedding: Organic and Elegant North Carolina Mountain Wedding

This gorgeous fall wedding at Hawkesdene House in Andrews, North Carolina was the perfect way to close out 2016! At the peek of the fall season, surrounded by beautiful colors of nature, Jessica + Ryan celebrated amongst family and friends. Jessica's inspiration behind her wedding was the natural scenery of the North Carolina Mountains. We incorporated different types of lush greenery among the centerpieces. With rich, vibrant reds and lots of organic textures, we created an elegant evening with an organic inspiration in the mountains.

Jessica + Ryan met thanks to their moms, who were already good friends, and had arranged for Ryan to show Jessica around California, since it was her first time visiting. It was crazy how well their plan worked! The pair had so much in common, and flash forward 8 years later - they finally got married! Since both their families live all over the country, the couple choose the lovely Hawkesdene House, about 2 hours west of Asheville, for their destination wedding.  Our bride said that whenever the couple would visit the mountains, they always leave with such a sense of peace and happiness after getting away from the hustle and bustle of life. So, they wanted their guests to have a similar experience and feel leaving refreshed after a fun weekend away!

I think their plan worked because it was one heck of a wedding weekend. I am so excited to share photos from Jessica + Ryan's amazing wedding day! But first, a huge thank you to our fabulous team of talented vendors who helped create a magical day for our bride + groom.

Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Josh Jones Photography
Flowers: New Creations Flower Company
Venue + Catering: Hawkesdene House
Cake: Sugar Cloud Baking Company
Linens: Nuage Designs + Party Reflections
Tent, Draping, Lighting: Classic Event Rentals
Photo Booth: Shutterbooth Charlotte
Live Artist: Wed On Canvas
Paper Goods: Elisabeth Rose
Hair and Makeup: Makeup by Jenny Le
Band: OnLive via Sam Hill Entertainment
Officiant: HeartLight Wedding Ministers
Videography: Five 18 Productions
Dress Designer: Amy Kuschel
Dress Boutique: Bellissima
Mens Attire: Mens Warehouse

I truly believe that wedding videography is such a worthwhile investment. While your photographer will capture your wedding day memories, a videographer will capture it in a way that photography just can't. So many nuances can be captured on video, not to mention your loved ones voices and mannerisms... and maybe some sweet dance moves? These are fleeting moments, never able to be repeated, are now frozen in time. It's a great way to relive your wedding day over and over again long after the wedding high has passed.

Jessie+Ryan {Full Wedding Video} from James Desuyo on Vimeo.

Jessica + Ryan, thank you so much for allowing The Graceful Host to be a part of your destination wedding celebration! You two were such a dream and a joy to work with, and the love you have for each other is captivating. I wish you a lifetime of happiness together and memories, just as sweet as your wedding day.

XO,
A.

Real Wedding: A Cherry Blossom Inspired Spring Wedding at Foundation For The Carolinas

This couple couldn't be any sweeter. And there is no doubt that they are perfectly matched for each other!  Which makes the story of how they met all the better. Angela + Charlie met during their first year of law school at UNC Chapel Hill. But they didn't exactly hit it off, Angela notes. Angela didn't care for Charlie after their first meeting, when a mutual friend introduced them. Fast forward a year later, after a few study sessions, Charlie finally got the courage to ask Angela out. And Angela accepted after getting to know Charlie a bit better. After their first date, they both felt the spark ...and the rest was history, as they say!

Their April wedding was the epitome of a spring wedding. Angela's inspiration was everything floral, especially cherry blossoms. Beautiful blooming flowers in blush and ivory, with delicate details, made this stunning wedding absolutely eye-catching! Following a church ceremony at St. Peter's Episcopal Church, guests headed to Foundation For The Carolinas where the celebration continued into the night.  We loved working with this sweet couple and helping them create such a dreamy wedding celebration! 

A very special thank you to our vendor team who helped make Angela + Charlie's wedding day perfect!
Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Lauren Rosenau Photography
Floral Design: New Creations Flower Company
Invitations, Paper Goods: Elisabeth Rose
Hair: Mirror Bomb Studios
Makeup: Erin Ashley Makeup
Catering: Something Classic
Cake: Wow Factor Cakes
Band: The Business 
Ceremony Venue: St. Peter's Episcopal Church
Reception Venue: Foundation For The Carolinas
Musicians: Charlotte Strings For Events
Linens: Party Reflections and Nuage Designs
Welcome Box: The Graceful Host
Wedding Dress: Enzoani from J.Majors Bridal Boutique
Bridesmaid Dresses: Jim Hjelm from J.Majors Bridal Boutique
Groom and Groomsmen: Jos A Bank

Angela + Charlie, it was such a pleasure working with you both and your families! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your big day. 

XO,
A.

Just Married: Classic Glamour at the Mint Museum Uptown

I absolutely adore this couple! Everything about them is #couplegoals. It was a rainy and windy Saturday when Brittani and Taylor said "I Do", and Charlotte, North Carolina was feeling the effects of Hurricane Joaquin. But our beautiful bride and dashing groom didn't let the unwelcome storm dampen their wedding day one bit! In fact, you can see how gusty the winds were in one of the photos where Brittani's veil flew right off! Just wait for it!

With classic and elegant style in mind, we used a neutral color palette of navy blue, cream and gold, with a few sparkly touches. The soft details and clean lines were perfect for their modern venue, The Mint Museum Uptown. Brittani's style is effortless, and she wanted to create a day that reflected her personal style. So we focused our design around the fun party atmosphere by adding in lounge furniture for alternative guest seating, where they could enjoy the heavy hors d'oeuvres menu and fabulous live band. The caterer passed around late night snacks like grill cheese - a favorite of the bride and groom - and chicken fingers with fries as the guests partied into the night at one of Charlotte's premier venues. And with a grand streamer exit, the happy couple hopped into a pedicab at the end of the night.

I'm so lucky to get the chance to work with such amazing couples! Brittani and Taylor were such a joy to work with, and it was an honor to be a part of their celebration. I wish we could do it all over again - but maybe with a tiny bit less weather drama! ;)

Huge thanks to our talented vendor team who went above and beyond for our sweet bride and groom:

Wedding planning + design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Lauren Rosenau Photography
Florist: New Creations Flower Company
Catering: Something Classic Catering and Cafe
Wedding dress: Martina Liana from J. Majors Bridal Boutique
Hair and Makeup: Be Pretty by Lindsey Regan Thorne
Rentals: AFR
Rentals: Party Reflections - Charlotte
Rentals: Nuage Designs, Inc
Cake: Wow Factor Cakes
Paper Goods: Salt and Paperie
Calligraphy: The Graceful Host
Venue: The Mint Museum Uptown

Thank you Borrowed & Blue for featuring Brittani and Taylor's wedding! See the full feature, here.

Brittani and Taylor's portraits are some of my favorite in my 5 years of weddings. Wedding days are unpredictable. You never know what is going to happen, despite the hours and hours of careful planning. On this day, weather was not our friend. Hurricane Joaquin was showing affects in Charlotte, and it interrupted our plans for photography. But you'd never be able to tell because Brittani and Taylor look absolutely incredible and so madly in love! The way they look at each other is magnetic. And the photo of Brittani's veil flying away is just priceless! Don't worry - I ran after it! :)

Brittani and Taylor, thanks for letting The Graceful Host be a part of your beautiful celebration! We absolutely loved working with you to plan for your wedding! Lots of love to you both! 

XO,
A.

Featured + Real Wedding: A Colorful Wedding at the Mint Museum Uptown

We are so excited and fortunate to see not one, but TWO of our clients featured in the recent issue of Carolina Bride! Melinda + Scott's colorful, artful wedding at the beautiful Mint Museum Uptown was one of my absolute favorites from 2015. The gorgeous four page spread is what dreams are made of!

Our color palette was inspired by the beautiful painting in the ceremony location by California artist Sam Francis, Untitled (Seafirst) 1979. Melinda fell in love with the vibrancy of the colors and wanted to incorporate those tones throughout the design. The overall concept was modern structure meets delicate femininity. Melinda and Scott have such a beautiful love story, so we really wanted to embrace it and intertwine those details throughout their day. Starting with their romantic engagement on the iconic Love Lock Bridge - we used the actual key that Scott + Melinda used to "lock in their love" in Paris throughout their paper goods design by Pink Toast Ink. Photos by Capture Me Candid show both Melinda and Scott holding the key on their big day, too! Melinda's dress was one of her favorite details. The intricate bead work of her Monique Lhuillier gown from Nitsa's Apparel was absolutely stunning, and served as inspiration for their wedding cake by the always delicious Wow Factor Cakes. Besides a menu full of delicious food from Best Impressions Caterers, they provided a few late night snacks to surprise guests. Nothing like sliders and maple bacon doughnuts to keep you dancing all night long to Sol Fusion, one of the hottest bands in the Southeast! If your wedding is going to take place in a museum surrounded by gorgeous art - why not have an artist paint on site! Their first dance was captured by very talented live artist, Ben Keys of Wed On Canvas based out of Charleston. Scott + Melinda invited everyone to join in their first dance, and Ben beautifully captured the scene.  Guests loved watching his progress throughout the night, too - he was a huge hit!

It was such an honor to work with this amazing couple. Melinda + Scott are two of the nicest, most down to Earth - not to mention FUN! - people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. Being a part of their wedding day was so wonderful! And our vendor team knocked it out of the park! The details from this wedding will leave your head spinning - I'm so excited to share some of my favorite photos from their beautiful wedding day!

Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Capture Me Candid
Flower: New Creations Flower Company
Catering: Best Impressions Caterers
Band: Sol Fusion
Live Artist: Wed On Canvas
Paper Goods: Pink Toast Ink
Rentals: Nuage Designs
Rentals: Party Reflections
Rentals: AFR
Cake: Wow Factor Cakes
Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier
Wedding Dress Boutique: Nitsa's Apparel
Hair and Makeup: Zara Millian
Brides Jewelry: Alexis Bittar
Venues: The Mint Museum Uptown

Melinda + Scott were engaged on the famed love lock bridge in Paris, France. This is the actual key that they used to "lock in their love". And the key played a role in our inspiration for a good deal of our paper goods design. These cufflinks were a gift from Melinda to her groom and are a symbol of the key.

Did you know that we design and curate welcome boxes for our couples? I love it! Nothing says "guest experience" like an amazing welcome box/bag waiting for your guests, in their hotel room, upon arrival. We help our couples fill their boxes with their favorites goodies - which was the case of Melinda + Scott - order/assemble everything AND deliver on your behalf. Melinda is our champagne girl, and Scott was our Jameson lover. The sweets were favorites of our couple that they wanted to share with their guests. A welcome box is an easy way to welcome your loved ones to your wedding weekend! We loved this one!

Being that this was a second wedding for both Melinda + Scott, they wanted to do something a little more non-traditional when it came to the ceremony procession. Melinda entered the ceremony space alone, and Scott walked to the end of the aisle and met her and escorted her up to the front. They wanted to walk down the aisle together, towards their future. The symbolism of this just gets me every time! I loved that they wanted to do something different!

Melinda + Scott's first look was the best! 

Do your napkins tell a story? A great way (and inexpensive way!) to personalize your wedding to focus on the little details. These napkins were a great example of how we told Melinda + Scott's story through the details. These napkins represent aspects of their relationship - the key and the monogram from their invitation suite; the place they met and fell in love; and the place where they got engaged.

Melinda + Scott had Ben Keyes of Wed On Canvas do a live painting of their reception. This was something I had done at my own wedding back in 2012 and I can't tell you how much I treasure that painting!! When Melinda + Scott mentioned the idea, I was on board 110%! Once I introduced them to Ben, the search for the perfect artist to capture the moment was over. It was important to Melinda + Scott to have their first dance painted, and they wanted all their guests to join them! It was a beautiful moment, and guests LOVED watching Ben's progress throughout the night! Oh, and having a live artist paint at your wedding reception.... in an art museum?! Talk about an incredible detail!

Okay, and for the record - wedding days are really FUN! And sometimes if you have an awesome photographer, you'll get to see those fun moments! ;) Thanks for the outtakes, Lori! 

And I love when we get to reveal the space to our couples before any of the guest see it! We had that opportunity with Melinda - and it was the best thing ever to see her response! THIS is why I love my job so, so much!!

This wedding was seriously a dream come true - from dream clients to a dream vendor team! It was an amazing celebration and I'm so honored that we could play a role in Melinda + Scott's happily every after. Thank you for letting us in on your celebration! Reliving this day was so much fun! Hope you enjoyed it, too!

XO,
A.

Featured + Real Wedding: Garden Elegance at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden

We are over the moon and so thrilled to see Christina + Zach's Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden wedding featured in the pages of The Knot Carolinas!

Working with Christina + Zach last year was such a joy! I loved everything about our time together. This bride is just as sweet as she looks (x's a million!), and the love that they have for each other is so inspiring. Christina + Zach live in Raleigh, but wanted to plan a wedding in the Charlotte area since it was a half way point between their two families. Once they saw Daniel Stowe, they were sold! It was the perfect venue for their elegant garden wedding. When we met, Christina + Zach painted a beautiful picture of a garden wedding where they could bring the outdoors indoors and fill the room with full, lush centerpieces. They also stressed how important it was that they incorporate her Lao and Vietnamese culture into their day. With a color palette of blush, pink, green, and champagne we created a truly magical day for this amazing couple. (By the way, have you seen their inspiration board?)

I can't thank all the amazing vendors involved in Christina + Zach's beautiful wedding enough. It takes a village to pull off a killer wedding y'all, and I'm grateful for the chance to work with this wonderful team of talented vendors!
Planning + Design: The Graceful Host
Photography: Lauren Friday Photography
Floral Design: New Creations Flower Company
Venue: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Catering: Best Impressions Caterers
Videography: Crown Alley Films
Entertainment: Split Second Sound
Rentals + Draping: Party Reflections
Hair + Makeup: William Henry Salon
Cake: Wow Factor Cakes
Wedding Dress: David Tutera from Savvi Formalwear in Raleigh, NC
Bridesmaid Dresses: Bill Levkoff from Savvi Formalwear in Raleigh, NC
Stationary + Paper Goods: Elisabeth Rose
Calligraphy for the Invitations: Delighted Calligraphy
Magnolia Leaf Calligraphy: The Graceful Host
Escort Card Calligraphy: Family member of the Bride and Groom

Here are some of my favorite photos from Zach + Christina's big day, thanks to the talented Lauren Friday Photography!

The boutonniere (photo on the right) was made of sweet peas, which is a nickname for Zach from Christina. And the turtle pin is a family heirloom from the grooms family. It's the sweet and special touches that make this wedding so unique and beautiful!

This family Bible has been passed down for generations in the grooms family and is traditionally part of the wedding day. 

 I love that their pup Amos was able to be a part of the ceremony! Mom + Dad are married!

I love all the heirloom pieces - and here's another one! The coop champagne glasses that the bride and groom toasted with are from the grooms parent's wedding day. 

Part of Christina's Vietnamese culture is to welcome each guest with a shot of cognac. Dressed in traditional Laos attire Christina welcomed her family, then changed to welcome into a traditional Vietnamese dress to welcome the other side her family with Zach by her side.

Christina + Zach it was an honor to be a part of your special day! Love you both! 

XO,
A.

Real Wedding: Sophisticated Glamour at The Ritz Carlton Urban Garden

What happens with you get a gorgeous bride with an eye for design and a handsome groom with a smile that will light up a room?! You get Kendra and Randy's chic uptown Charlotte wedding at the Ritz Carlton Urban Garden! 

When I tell people I'm a wedding planner, their next immediate comment is "Oh I bet you deal with a lot of bridezillas!" I quickly answer, "Nope!". And I'm serious. My brides are some of the sweetest, most genuine, grounded women I've ever met. I feel so lucky to get to be a tiny part of their lives as they marry the love of their life. Kendra was an absolutely dream to work with! Here is a woman who knows what she wants - I love that! - and as a talented interior designer, she has an incredible eye for design - my kind of bride! Together, we created a wedding that was a perfect reflection of Kendra and Randy's style: sophisticated glamour.

This wedding day felt extra special because it was a celebration of two families coming together. The bridal party consisted of Kendra and Randy's family members and children, and Kendra was even escorted down the aisle by her two adorable son's! It was a beautiful Carolina spring day full of love!  

It's so easy to fall head over heels in love with this sweet couple! I loved every second of our time together and watching them say I Do was such a treat! Cheers to you, Mr and Mrs White! I am grateful to have been a part of your special day. And I have to extend a huge thank you to our team of talented vendors who helped make Kendra and Randy's day an absolute dream:

Wedding Planning + Design: The Graceful Host / Photography: Lauren Rosenau Photography / Flowers: New Creations Flower Company / Paper Goods: Pink Toast Ink / Venue, Catering and Wedding Cake: Ritz Carlton Charlotte, Urban Garden / Hair and Makeup Artists: Makeup by Jenny Le / Wedding Dress Designer: Victor Harper Couture / Wedding Dress Boutique: Nitsa's Apparel / Bridesmaid Dresses: Amsale Bridesmaid / Ceremony Musicians: Queen City Ensemble / Reception Band: In The Pocket via EastCoast Entertainment / Rentals, draping and furniture: Spark By Design / Rentals, linens and staging: Party Reflections / Rentals, linens: BBJ Linens / Rentals, linens: Party Tables

And don't miss Kendra + Randy's wedding featured on Inside Weddings! Read more about their story and see photos from their special day, here.

XO,
A.

Anniversary: Veronica + Chip

This past weekend, we wished a very happy one year anniversary to one amazing couple - Veronica and Chip Getz! I absolutely LOVED having the opportunity to work with these two. Talk about two of the kindest, most genuine people I've ever met! Not to mention one seriously gorgeous couple, who are just a perfect match! Their romantic & sophisticated wedding at The Mint Museum was a highlight from our 2014 season. And in honor of their anniversary, I couldn't help but share their fabulous highlight reel from 5Ahead Films! 

Here are a few of my favorite photos by the talented Jeremy Igo Photography from their beautiful day!

One incredible year down, and just a lifetime to go! Cheers to you, Mr. & Mrs. Getz! Lots of love to you both!

XO,
A.

Anniversary: Mia + Alex

Just one short year ago, a beautiful bride with an infectious smile married a total gentleman in a sweet ceremony that combined both of their cultures and religions. Sadly our garden wedding plans were rained out - but a little (well, okay - a lot!) of rain didn't dampen this spirits of this amazing couple one bit! It's pretty ironic that it also rained on their anniversary, just one year later. But you know how the saying goes, rain on your wedding day brings good luck! :) I recently heard a new saying about rain on your wedding day that was so awesome - The wetter the knot the harder it is to untie. How's that for some perspective?! I have a feeling this amazing couples would agree.

I loved this beautiful garden wedding design, inspired by nature. We incorporated so many little details that were a reflection of Mia & Alex - like their hot air ballon guest book, which is where Alex proposed to Mia! If you haven't seen the full blog post, click here. Their wedding portraits in the Orchid Conservatory of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is one of my favorites from 2014. I loved seeing it pop up on Huffington Post blog last summer as part of their 14 Boho Desert Wedding Ideas! Today I'm sharing a few of my favorite highlights to from their big day to celebrate!

Isn't this bride so beautiful?! I love Mia's gorgeous tiered lace dress! And that smile - so infectious! I am so honored to have had the opportunity to be a part of this special day! Cheers to many, many more years of wedded bliss for this adorable couple!

XO,
A.

Photography: Lauren Rosenau Photography | Flowers: New Creations Flower Company | Venue: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden