Southern Weddings

Psst… have you voted in the championship round of Mason-Dixon Madness yet? We’re revealing the winner later today!

Based on your survey feedback, we know that most of you prefer real weddings over styled shoots. And I have to say, I’m with you for the most part – especially because I see piles of submissions every week that are just so clearly not a fit for what we’re about. But I’m not ready to give up on inspirational editorials completely, because I still think, when done right, they can be both useful and, yep, inspiring. We don’t want or expect you to replicate every element from every shoot – but I do believe that every shoot has at least one takeaway for almost every couple.

Maybe one will introduce you to a vendor that perfectly clicks with your style. Maybe one will show you a new way to tie your bouquet or a clever idea for numbering your tables. Maybe you’ll spot your dream dress in one, or the perfect bow tie for your groom. Or, like me, maybe you love editorials because they introduce you to a part of the South you’re not familiar with – like this one, which takes us into the orange groves of Louisiana. I didn’t even know there were such things, but I’m so glad Blue Ribbon Vendor Sarah Becker Photo has shown me!

From the event planner and stylist, Brooke: Belle Chasse, Louisiana is the epitome of a small town! Everyone knows one another, stores are family-owned and you won’t find any tall buildings blocking your view of the sunset. Born and raised here, I’ve always admired the beauty of this small town, particularly the orange groves that blossom along the main road. As I began designing weddings, I knew I would jump at the chance to showcase this area! Then enters Sarah Becker Lillard. Sarah’s bubbly personality and enthusiasm at the idea of the orange grove shoot gave me the little push I needed to say “Let’s make this thing happen.” After meeting with Sarah to brainstorm on ideas for the shoot, the rest of the vendor team seemed like such an obvious choice.

I have admired Poppy & Mint since the first day I saw Destiny’s work. Julia, owner and event designer at Mrs. Vintage, fit the mold perfectly when I was looking for the props for the shoot. Her farm table, whiskey barrel and wooden crates were a clear part of my vision since Day 1. Her vintage sugar mold was the perfect piece to complete the main floral design!

Amanda, Hattiesburg-native and owner of Fine Print Calligraphy, adds a Southern touch to many of her designs. I knew she would design something that captivated the essence of the orange groves in Southern Louisiana. Amanda created custom ink colors for the calligraphy on the envelopes as well as the watercolor for the menu and invitation that gave the shoot that personal touch.

My favorite part of the shoot has to be the modeling debut of my two pups, Jake and Levi. It is amazing what a few pieces of ham as bribery can do.

Event Planner: Southern Charm Weddings | Photographer: Sarah Becker Photo | Floral Designer: Poppy & Mint | Stationery: Fine Print Calligraphy | Bridal Salon: Wedding Belles | Hair & Makeup: Chelsea Adam with Breck & Co. | Vintage Rentals: Mrs. Vintage | Cake Designer: The Sweet Life Bakery | Groom’s Suit: John’s Tuxedos | Chairs, Plates, and Flatware: Event Rental | Orange Groves: Saxon-Becnel & Sons |

Sarah Becker Photo and Mrs. Vintage are delightful members of our Blue Ribbon Vendor Directory!

Written with love by Emily