Southern Weddings

Hi ladies + gents! “Marrying” is a sub-column within Marissa’s usual Southern Style column where she translates the style of a beloved Southern movie, play, or book to weddings! Enjoy! — Emily

Beloved is quite right, Emily! And let me tell y’all, Sweet Home Alabama is right up there on my most beloved movie list. I could watch it over and over again and never get tired of Melanie saying” you’ve got a baby… in a bar!”

Speaking of the fab Ms. Melanie (Smooter) Carmichael, can we just start by talking about how stylish she is! From her one-shoulder LBD to her perfectly spunky bobbed haircut – this girl has some serious Southern style! Not to mention the giant sparkling rock she sports throughout the movie!

One of the best scenes (for us sparkle-lovers) is when Andrew proposes to Melanie inside of Tiffany’s. Oh, when those lights go on and all the salespeople put out their little black velvet square – ah, pure movie magic! And if you’re looking for more diamond inspiration, check out the newly engaged Emily’s post on engagement rings 101.

Image credit from left to right and top to bottom: Unknown, Katelyn James, Snap Weddings, Miss Elysse and Furious Photographers.

Since Melanie did not have a full court, I’m imagining what her girls would have worn. In my opinion, she would have outfitted her maids’ in sophisticated black frocks similar to her fab on-shoulder number she wore earlier in the movie. Bridesmaids in LBD’s are becoming more and more popular and I must admit I am a huge fan! This sleek and slimming b’maid option can be dressed up with formal accessories like pearls and updo’s or casualized with colorful heels and a short, flirty length. P.S. Can you spot the Miss Emily looking gorg in her black gown?

Image credit from left to right and top to bottom: A Bryan Photo,

For her plantation wedding to Andrew, Melanie went right back to her Southern roots by opting for an all-white bouquet.This monochromatic look is pure flower goodness! It’s looks classic and sophisticated without being stuffy. Yes, please!

Image credit left to right and top to bottom: XXXX, XXXX, Julie Lim (check out the Real Wedding Gallery for this gorgeous wedding here), XXXX, The Special Day Event Design , Virgil Bunao, XXXX, A Bryan Photo, XXX and XXX.

I’ll be the first to admit it – I love plantation weddings! There is just something so Southern and classic about tying the knot on the landing of so much tradition. Even though Melanie did not grow up on the Carmichael Plantation, she she couldn’t help but squirmed her way right onto their lawn. To be quite honest, I don’t blame her!

Image credit from left to right and top to bottom: Maile Lani , Mark Eric, Continuum Photography, Armosa Studios (see more of this lovely wedding here) and Eye Wonder Photography.


Inspired by Melanie’s sophisticated style today’s Shopping Guide is all about the bridesmaids.

A. Lela Rose Style LR155 (contact for pricing), B. THREAD “Lidy” Dress ($290), C. Suzi Chin “Maggy” ($118), D. J. Crew “Blakely” ($235), E. David’s Bridal One-Shouler Dress ($129), F. ML Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids Strapless Dress ($188), G. Alfred Sung Style D506 (contact for pricing), H. ML Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids One Shoulder Taffeta Dress ($178).

Missed something? Catch up with past “Marrying” features here:
Steel Magnolias

Written with love by Marissa