Truth time: Sometimes we get these engagement sessions and straight-up envy the charmed Instagram-worthy lives the couples seem to live. And Kaitlin and Allan’s shots could do just that. But....
Butter Blossoms
These heart, petal, and clover-shaped cookies made by Emily Herr, a graduate of Johnson & Wales’ School of Baking and Pastry Arts, and her mother Michelle DiTullio, a veteran baker herself, are almost (almost!) too cute to eat. Offer the treats at bridal luncheons and showers, or, since the James Island duo hand-packages each set with doilies and matching ribbon, purchase them for favors. (843) 300-5004; www.Etsy.com/Shop/ButterBlossoms
KNYPS
Charleston designer Jolanta Majowicz (who does seamstress work with White on Daniel Island) offers up her self-designed flower girl frocks online, each bursting with bows, frills, silk, and tulle. Be sure to visit her other boutique on Etsy, YoLaLa, for bridal shorties ideal for receptions. (870) 270-3028; www.Etsy.com/Shop/KNYPS or www.Etsy.com/Shop/YoLaLa
Maude Couture
A former designer with LulaKate, Beaufort-born Caroline Baker specializes in chic custom-made wedding, cocktail, and evening wear. We love the CofC and New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology grad’s short frocks especially, which would suit any shower, rehearsal dinner, or reception just so. www.Etsy.com/shop/MaudeCouture or www.MaudeCouture.com
Curiosity Vintage
In search of unique touches for your reception décor? As its apt name hints, this sweet shop stocks an array of antique finds, from Victorian silver chalices to a traditional milk-glass cake stand. If you’d rather browse in person, stop by their brick and mortar boutique at 56½ Queen Street. (843) 647-7763; www.Etsy.com/Shop/CuriosityVintage
The Banner Sisters
Add homespun charm to your shower, reception, or wedding getaway car with handmade signage from the Banner Sisters—Shelly Bellil of James Island and her sister Maggie Owens—whose peppy, colorful, and oh-so-cute signs come both premade and customizable. (843) 465-2030; www.Etsy.com/Shop/TheBannerSisters or www.TheBannerSisters.com
Desicra
Crown your wedding cake with an adorable animal couple crafted from hand-woven silk by Goose Creek’s Miranda Green. We’re fans of her bride-and-groom nautical critters—crabs, clams, octopi, fish, squid, and more—as each set is perfect for a seaside summer wedding. (They’re customizable, too, so color coordinate the toppers with your palette.) (843) 847-9384; www.Etsy.com/Shop/Desicra
Nicholas Lane Jewelry
In silver, gold, and pearl, this line of jewelry complements any MOB, MOG, or bridesmaid look. Handcrafted by Currie Kilpatrick Boyd of Mount Pleasant, the goods stand out with sophisticated—yet affordable—glam. Want to inspect them in person? Check out Currie’s shop at 47-A Spring Street. (843) 478-1832, www.Etsy.com/Shop/NicholasLaneJewelry
Ink Meets Paper
Daniel and Allison Nadeau’s Ink Meets Paper stationery shop could out-sweet a bakery. Each card is hand-fed through a 1920s printing press in their North Charleston home studio, and there are scores perfect for thank-you notes. (843) 608-8465; www.Etsy.com/shop/InkMeetsPaper or www.InkMeetsPaperPress.com
Earlybird Ink
Mount Pleasant-based Ali Reed creates monogrammed wall art, stationery, and other paper pretties. Our favorite pick? The print you can personalize with your name, wedding date, state, and city. www.Etsy.com/Shop/EarlybirdInk
Charleston Charms
Crafted from cotton bolls, oak leaves, and palmetto fronds, the boutonnieres (and other nuptial touches) West Ashley’s Stephanie Berry makes couldn’t get more Southern—or more local, as the recent CofC grad gleans materials from her own garden. www.Etsy.com/Shop/CharlestonCharms
While you’re online, check out these top local stops
Blue Planet Green Events
Rich in how-tos, visit this event planner’s blog for tips on making your Big Day eco-chic.
www.BluePlanetGreenEvents.com/Blog
design + dodeline: the blog
Drop by this cute and quirky site for stationery and design DIYs.
www.Blog.DodelineDesign.com
Juliet Elizabeth
Browse this photog’s gorgeous portraits, each showcasing local venues and vendors.
www.JulietElizabethBlog.com
Leigh Webber Photography
Glean inspired ideas from this shutterbug’s site, ripe with real-life Lowcountry weddings that have appeared on The Knot and in Weddings Unveiled, Elegant Bride, and more.
www.LeighWebberPhotography.com/Blog
RH Inspiration
From food to flora, get schooled by the ladies behind Ruth’s House Event Rentals & Design.
www.RHInspirationsBlog.com
Yoj Events
Full of nuptial fêtes, you’ll stay a while at this in-the-know event planner’s sassy site.
www.YojEvents.com/Yoj_Blog
