I have received many congratulations through LinkedIn on my work anniversary.  It is hard to believe that 5 years ago, I became the owner of A Charleston Event...and I haven't looked back.  I have been in the industry for close to 15 years in some capacity of events - catering, venue rentals, banquets/receptions, award galas, fundraisers, etc - and it has all paid off to make me successful in living my dream.  
Hard work, dedication, and the love and support of family and friends that have cheered me on have led to my success.  It is the trust and commitment and strong relationships with my brides that keep me excited. Just wanted to say thank you to everyone for believing in me.

I wholeheartedly believe that Everyday is a gift for it to be what you want. I am living my dream. Are you living yours?

The amazing Bob Snow - father of the bride aka BobEtsy - sent this to me yesterday and I just had to share.  
His daughter Elizabeth was married to Jake Oster at The Sanctuary on Kiawah Island on Halloween night.  One of their guests staying at the Sanctuary filmed the sunrise for the couple and sent it to them as a gift.  This is so thoughtful and touching...I know that they will enjoy many more sunrises.  What a wonderful  and thoughtful gesture.  

With the simple words "I Do", a family joins together as one.  For Cate and Andrew, their family of three traveled from Virginia o elope at White Point Gardens at the Charleston Battery on March 8, 2014.  
When Cate contacted A Charleston Event, she had one request - for her to enjoy this moment with her little family and to have no worries.  We accepted the request - everything from the location, the florals, the photographer, a wedding cake, and dinner reservations.  
We wish them much love and happiness on their marriage.

Right before I send any bride and groom on their way for the grand departure, they all seem to say the same thing.  "It's already over?   Wow, that went by so fast."  
Your wedding day has the same amount of hours as any other day but for some reason it flies.  
If you have it in the budget, think about adding a videographer to your vendor list.  This is an excellent way of keeping the moment alive many years from now.  It allows friends and family members that were unable to attend a glimpse into the festivities of the day.  It is your diary of the most joyous day in your lives.  
The video above was produced through FingerSnappin' Entertainment; located in Charleston SC.  We hope you enjoy.  
Questions to ask while interviewing a videographer.

At the end of a beautiful Lowndes Grove wedding, the bride came to me and said that she didn't want any of the centerpieces.  "Take it all - I don't want to deal with it."  Scanning the room all I could think of, "Is my car big enough to handle all of this?"  
The next morning, I unpacked my car and my living room was full of mason jars.  They were everywhere!  Close to 30 cases and I had no plans of doing any canning...I don't know how but maybe I should learn.  
I began doing calculations and approximately $450 + time + transport of mason jars were crowding my living room.  That is quite a bit to throw away for just one night.
Most brides dispose of their centerpieces or pack their items in a box that goes into storage after the celebration.  Vases, arbors, bows, card boxes, even dresses... you name it and it is either going to a landfill or into someones garage or closet.  
So after a glass of wine or two, I created the Facebook Group:  Charleston Weddings Recycled.  It is a place where brides can buy, sell, swap, trade with other brides their gently used ceremony and reception items.  Its a great place to find a deal!  
The group is growing quickly and all you have to do is find us on Facebook.  The more brides the merrier!!! 

He's the first man that held your hand.
To kiss your cheek.
To hold you close and whisper "I love you."
You probably stood on his feet while you danced your first dance in the living room.  

On your wedding day, he is the one that cries when he sees you dressed in white.  
It's his arm you take to walk down the aisle to the man of your dreams.
He's the one dance partner that you know has dreamed of twirling you on the dance floor since the day you met.  

For this bride, the absence of her father on her wedding day was devastating.  It was the thoughtfulness of her brother and the love and support of her family that allowed her still have this special moment that is usually only shared between a father and his daughter.  

Although I never met this bride, the moment that is shared in this video brought me to tears.  I wish her the best of love and luck and hope she knows that her father was with her in spirit at this joyous occasion.  

It's so weird, those songs that make you stop and actually listen to the words.  Well, that happened tonight when I walked downstairs and saw this video on Palladia.  I have heard many love songs played at weddings over the years and I believe that this one will definitely make its way onto many bride's playlist.  I hope you enjoy as much as me.  

Nestled in the Old Village of Mt. Pleasant, SC is a gem of a location for wedding ceremonies and receptions - Alhambra Hall; located at 131 Middle Street.

This space has it all with the lush green lawn, a magnificent view of the Charleston Harbor, and an old oak tree that is perfect for ceremonies.  The main building on premise is two stories but it is the 2nd floor that  hosts the reception.  The space is approximately 3200 sq. feet (40x80) of open hardwood floors and exposed wood beams.  Two fireplaces are centered on both side and there are windows that surround the space so that you are able to enjoy the outdoor views.  Many guests enjoy the wraparound porch that surrounds majority of the ballroom.  If you are worried about space, you can also utilize this porch for bar service, cocktail tables, etc.  

There are many great reasons to take a look at Alhambra Hall:

• Open to outside vendors
• Available for setup throughout the entire day
• Very versatile
• Tables and chairs with the rental 
• Bridal Suite available to get ready (additional fee)
• Indoor space can accommodate groups up to 350 yet not overwhelming for smaller groups

With many of my clients we always try to utilize as much of the property as possible - ceremony outside followed by cocktail hour and then dinner and dancing indoors.  Of course with Charleston, the weather is never predictable and a concern for brides would be what to do in case of inclement weather.  Depending on the guest count, you could always use the indoor space for both OR there is always the option of renting a tent.  

Regardless of your event - rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, reception, after wedding brunch - Alhambra Hall is a must see.  

Give us a call if you would like to schedule an appointment.  

After the "I Dos," it is usually the wedding officiant or the planner that says - "let's go make this legal." There's a reason for that, because it is just a big party without it.  Just kidding...but not really.  What we are referring to is the signing of the marriage license.  
In order to get married in SC, you must have a SC marriage license.  Makes sense.  But to get the license, you must apply for it together at the Court House.  Remember to bring proper documentation - a valid driver's license, a passport, your original birth certificate, etc.  
There is also a $70 CASH filing fee that is to be paid at the time of applying.  A blood test is not required in SC but you do have to wait 24 hours after filing the application.  
The 24 hour waiting period is very important to remember because many couples come to Charleston thinking they can just pick up the license on the same day.  Every State is different so knowing this could save you a ton of frustration.  I always encourage couples to apply for the license at least a month or two in advance.  If you are a destination bride, plan on both you and your fiancé arriving on Thursday if your wedding is scheduled for Saturday.  The Court House is NOT open on the weekends.  
Once the 24 hours has passed, you are free to pick up the marriage license at the Court House and only one of you has to be present.  While there, take a moment to review and make any changes/revisions necessary.  They should be able to accommodate any requests.  
On the day of the wedding, make certain to bring all three copies to the ceremony.  Your wedding officiant will guide you through the signing process and make certain that all copies get to where they need to be.  
Now go and enjoy the reception!

For complete information of applying for your SC Marriage

With every wedding rehearsal, the question about how to usher a lady to their seat or to the alter always arises. Lets face it, the days of lending an arm are long gone and only really seen at weddings.  This makes every guy nervous because they are not accustomed to this practice AND all eyes are on them to do it correctly...don't forget the photographer's lens.  

Gentlemen, when ushering, offer the lady your left arm.  Keep it firm and bent towards your body.  Your wrist should be straight with your arm and your hand is to be in a loose fist.  Walk tall with your head held high.  Keep your pace slow and remember to smile.  

Ladies, when a gentleman offers you his arm, take hold of his left arm with your right hand.  You will rest your fingers on the crook of his arm.  Keep your fingers together and hold on firmly but not too tight.  If you are carrying a purse, do so with your left hand down at your side.  If you are carrying a bouquet, bring it up to your waistline with your left hand.  Again, take note of your body language - strong arms, head up, standing tall, and a visible smile.  

These tips will make you wedding ready for your special day.  I hope it helps.