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St. Simons Wedding Planner :: Island Destination Weddings | Blog
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Wedding Planners in Saint Simons Island
Apr 07 2017

Meet the Crew!

I know I may be biased, but I absolutely adore my team.  Not only am I so blessed to work with them on our amazing events, I am so very proud of them– their talents, accomplishments and characters.  Each of them bring something phenomenal to everything we touch, so it is always a treat when we are all together.  I knew before our season got ridiculously crazy, I wanted us to get together and have our team shoot.

And honey, they brought their A game.

There was absolutely no doubt where I wanted to shoot and with whom.  Tamara Gibson is one of the most romantic, candid and artistic wedding photographers in Saint Simons Island and Jekyll Island. We have always been huge fans of what she has done for our client weddings and had often discussed getting together with her for some creative work when we could.  Of course, there is no other fabulous place in the area than Straton Hall‘s J’s Boom Boom room, which has a nice Speakeasy type feel.  Straton Hall is almost like our home away from home, so it was fun to hang out with everyone and be so relaxed.

 

So, without further ado– meet my people!

 

Well, this is me.  And as you see I came to serve face, honey!

Saint Simons Island Savannah Wedding Planner and Coordinator

Saint Simons Island Savannah Wedding Planner and Coordinator

 

This is Joseph.  He is just outstanding and makes it happen.  Doesn’t even matter what “it” is. He just says the word and it pretty much happens.  Definitely the guy you want on your side on an event day.  And is he funnnnnyyyy!  We have been known to laugh until both of us are in tears,  and everyone needs someone like that in your life.

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator

 

Isn’t this doll fabulous?  Colleen is a rockstar planner and designer.  Her eye for detail and deliciousness is legitimately swoonworthy. Her smile lights up any room and she puts everyone at ease.  And I am sure many people think that we speak our own strange language since much of our dialogue consists of clips and quotes from our favorite movies. She’s the one who can read my mind with just looking at my face.

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator

 

Alicia is phenomenal.  There really is no other word for it. And I really mean that– she is our Renaissance woman!  She dances, teaches, is artist and musician.  Her creative mind is such an asset and the way she problem solves saves us at almost every event! Her laughter is infectious, so if she is laughing, we’re all laughing.

 

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator

 

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10

 

Of course, there was some acting up.  We just can’t help it. We always have a blast when we’re together.

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10

And since I love Joanne the Scammer. . .

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10

 

But a good time was had by all…even when we try to be serious, it ends up in laughter.

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10

Tamara even caught me a few times singing to something that was blasting from the speakers, because you know…dance break.

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10

 

One thing I really wanted was a formal picture of Jay and Stacy– Owners of Straton Hall. I didn’t tell them, but I worked an image of the team as well as this great photo of Jay and I into my Catersource presentation when I spoke at the conference in New Orleans last month.

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10

That’s our “official” picture, but if you’ve ever attended a meeting or an event with us, you’ll likely find us like this:

Saint Simons and Savannah Wedding Planner Coordinator 10

 

If you would like to formally meet the team, check our their love notes to you on our Meet Us page. We’ll see you soon at the next event!

Apr 05 2017

Real King and Prince Wedding: Stephanie & Lee

Stephanie and Lee’s beautiful Saint Simons wedding was everything that weddings should be made of– family, fun and food! There were so many beautiful personal touches to their wedding that it made guests a part of the day instead of just spectators.  In working with them both, it was clear that the party was crucial to the experience of the wedding, but it was very important to elevate and celebrate their faith and family.

saint simons island wedding

saint simons island wedding florist design

saint simons island wedding photographer

saint simons island wedding venue

saint simons island wedding planner coordinator

saint simons island wedding florist flowers king and prince

saint simons island wedding cake

saint simons island wedding beach elopement

saint simons island wedding dj

saint simons island wedding king and prince

 

Special Touch:  We incorporated Stephanie’s mom’s nursing pins on to her bouquet. This was Stephanie’s way of having her mom with her after her passing the year before.

Fun Moment:  All of the guests surrounded the dance floor to sing the couple’s favorite song

Unique Detail: Instead of just cake, we incorporated a donut and coffee bar mid reception.  Huge hit.

 

Event Team

Wedding Coordination & Design: Cocktails & Details®
Florals: Designs by Mechelle
Photography: Chris Moncus Phtogography
Entertainment: Island Sound
Photo Booth: Studio Pixel Pop
Wedding Cake: Publix
Wedding Ceremony Venue: Saint William’s Catholic Church
Wedding Reception Venue: King and Prince Resort

wedding photographer saint simons island jekyll savannah jacksonville
Mar 31 2017

What Your Wedding Planner Wants You to Know About Your Wedding Photographer

wedding photographer saint simons island jekyll savannah jacksonville

Your photographer is the one thing you can’t afford to skimp on.

It is important that you love your photographer’s work and like them as well– any discomfort, stress or personality clashes will be seen on your photos.  This is why it is best to do an engagement shoot with your photographer.  Don’t allow your wedding day to be a test run. Get a sense for their shooting style and demeanor.

In a world of instant gratification, Snapchat, and Instagram, accept that you are not going to get all of your pictures right away. Also realize that your photographer is not going to practice dark, magical arts and manipulate your images with heavy editing, gratuitous cosmetic filters and the like.

Your photographer is a storyteller.

Your photographer is an artist.

Stories take time to tell. Art takes time to create.

Know that your photographer has their own style and gift.  Don’t ask them to conform or copy someone else’s style.

Your photographer is not a magician.  Please don’t ask for face swaps, digital cosmetic surgery, and other astronomical requests in Photoshop.

You will not see every image  that your photographer shot on your wedding day.  They are not all going to be attractive and for consumption.  Your photographer wants you to see your wedding day in a well crafted way. Trust your photographer’s judgement in what they allow you to see.

Your photographer knows how important this day is for you and they also know how excited you are. This is why your photographer is going to take their time to carefully edit the images so that the timeless capsule into your wedding day is just right.

 

jekyll island wedding planner convention center westin
Feb 01 2017

Our Top 10 His and Hers Signature Cocktails for Your Wedding

One the best parts of planning and designing our clients’ weddings is helping them test brainstorm their signature drink cocktails. This is always a fun part of planning because we can draw inspiration from literally anywhere– their first date, a favorite food or flavor, the location itself, even the event’s color palette! Most of our brides want something that is light and crisp if their wedding is during the warmer months and outdoors.  Our grooms don’t want anything that is too sweet or fruity, but want a different cocktail that all guests could enjoy.  His and Hers Signature Cocktails are so popular at weddings, as you get to know a little more about the personality of the couple and it is always a hit with guests.

If you need some help coming up with ideas, we’ve got you covered! Here are some of our favorite go-to cocktails for weddings.

Hers

Champagne Margaritas

Frenchy

signature cocktail drink for wedding bride groom champagne

Recipe via Epicurious

Strawberry Basil Sangria

 No Longer a Bridesmaid

signature cocktail drink for weddings brides groom

via Sutter Home (also known as Girl’s Night In…PS if you like this, you may also like The Blushing Bride with a peach/grenadine twist)

Raspberry Limoncello Prosecco

via Damn Delicious (LOVE them…definitely check out all of their recipes)

His

Devil Went Down to Georgia

Jamaica Bacon Old Fashioned

Blackberry Gin Lemonade

Iron Man

Frida’s Mule

 

 

Inspired?  Definitely do some quality control testing and find the perfect signature drink for you. Let us know which one you select!

Featured Image of Jekyll Island Convention Center Wedding :: Caitlin Amanda Lee

Here is your chance to start your wedding planning with an all-access book to the best venues, wedding photographers, reception sites and more that the area has to offer. Written by the area’s most sought after wedding planner, Cocktails & Details, you’ll have tips, must-know information and guides on having the most beautiful wedding in St. Simons and Jekyll Island.
Jan 25 2017

Top 7 Amazing Places for your Rehearsal Dinner on Saint Simons and Jekyll Island

When planning your destination wedding in the Golden Isles, you’ll also have to plan an additional event on Saint Simons Island or Jekyll Island: your rehearsal dinner.  Of course, you will want your rehearsal dinner at a different location than your wedding. If your wedding ceremony and wedding reception are at a resort, there may be an alternative location to host your rehearsal dinner.  Also keep in mind, an off-site wedding rehearsal dinner is a great way for your family and friends to see more of the beautiful islands you’ve chosen to host your wedding festivities.

 

Saint Simons

Casino

Saint Simons Casino Wedding

The Saint Simons Casino is a local favorite for both weddings and rehearsal dinners.  Its open air atrium overlooks Neptune Park and the beautiful ocean makes it a perfect, casual location for a rehearsal dinner. You’re allowed to bring in your choice of caterer and supply your own alcohol, which makes this place a local favorite.    Being maintained by the County, there are certain regulations which are overseen by a County representative and police officer during the event.

Village Creek Landing

village creek landing wedding ceremony reception rehearsal dinner

Village Creek Landing  is a favorite for nature enthusiasts as well as those looking for casual, rustic chic for their rehearsal dinner experience.  An exclusive Straton Hall venue, you’re in good hands as they will take care of everything  you need– food, alcohol and florals. There are striking elements that makes Village Creek a unique location– the wooden gazebo, the boathouse which has an intimate indoor space and the grounds that overlook the beautiful marshes.  There have even been dolphin sightings a time or two!

Palm Coast

palm coast st simons rehearsal dinner

 

Nestled in the heart of The Village is Palm Coast.  A fun local favorite, Palm Coast has its own private courtyard where you can have live music and your own catering, while they provide the alcohol. This is perfect for those wanting something very casual and laid back, that will also allow guests the opportunity to explore The Village before or after the rehearsal dinner.

Retreat Room

Retreat room Rehearsal dinner Wedding Reception St Simons

If you’d like a more formal option or a location wth a breathtaking view, you can’t get any better than the King and Prince’s Retreat Room.  What makes this ideal is that is not only a private room at the resort overlooking the ocean, it is also ideal for those having weddings at the King and Prince Resort.  Keeping your guests all in location is very convenient and prevents extra transportation costs for you or them.

Jekyll Island

Great Dunes

Jekyll Island Reception Wedding Venues

Boasting one of the best views on Jekyll Island, Great Dunes gives you the best of both worlds– a covered pavilion as well as an open air deck.  You are allowed to bring in your own caterer and alcohol. With nearby restrooms and ample parking, this location is perfect for beach inspired rehearsal dinners.

Tortugas

Tortuga Rehearsal Dinner Wedding

Tortuga Jacks is a local favorite for the best Mexican food on Jekyll Island.  With its fun outdoor cabana deck which features outdoor music, This is a wonderful place to meet with family and friends.  The private room is large and comes with everything you need to host your rehearsal dinner.

Harry’s

Jekyll Island Reception Rehearsal Wedding Venue

This rooftop bar / dining area is perfect for cocktail style or small rehearsal dinners that want style and sophistication. Harry’s overlooks Jekyll’s new village area and the ocean.  Conveniently located at the Westin and within walking distance of the Jekyll Island Convention Center, this is the perfect rehearsal dinner option for weddings at either location.

 

Whichever these locations you choose, we know you’ll have an amazing time!  Where will you have your rehearsal dinner on Saint Simons or Jekyll Island?

Jekyll Island Rockefeller Cottage Wedding
Jan 03 2017

Real Jekyll Island Wedding : Kadi & Matt

Kadi and Matt’s Historic Jekyll Island wedding was one to remember.  There were so many details to fall in love with– Kadi’s art deco inspired wedding dress, the lush florals and the romantic sunset.  What out did everything was the sheer love these two felt for each other, which is clearly evident in every image of them together.

What made this day a success was how easy going and slow paced it was.  Both Kadi and Matt decided not to have any attendants in their bridal party.  Their day was spent getting ready, relaxing at the Westin Jekyll Island, ultimately getting ready for the romantic first look at Villa Marianna.  Matt waited for Katie, playing their favorite song from a vintage record player.  Their photos took them all over the historic district on Jekyll– from the Horton House ruins to the illustrious Driftwood Beach.

The two exchanged vows under the oaks at Moss cottage, surrounded by family and friends and a very special guest– their faithful dog. The wedding reception took place on the sprawling lawn of Indian Mound, Rockefeller Cottage across from the beautiful Jekyll Club Hotel.  Kadi wanted a modern take on a 20’s Great Gatsby style garden party.  We designed the entire wedding around a gorgeous white bar that featured boxwood hedges and vintage luggage.  The four sided bar featured different cocktails and spirits on each side.  Kadi’s brother created a custom microbrew just for her wedding and it was an absolute hit.  We also set up a loving memory table to honor Matt’s dad which featured some of his favorite cigars. The bar was surrounded by cocktail style seating and lounge furniture, where guests could enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres while watching dancing under the porte cochere.

 

This was such a beautiful wedding on all levels and we are so blessed to have been a part of it!

Jekyll Island Wedding Coordinator 8

Jekyll Island Outdoor Wedding Reception 3

Jekyll Island Wedding Reception 1

Jekyll Island Wedding Ceremony 2

Jekyll Island Outdoor Wedding 4

Jekyll Island Wedding Designer Florist 9

Jekyll Island Historic Wedding 6

Jekyll Island Historic Wedding Planner 7

Jekyll IslandWedding First Look 5

Jekyll Island Wedding 10
Jekyll Island Indian Mound Wedding 15

Jekyll Island Wedding Planner 14

Jekyll Island Club Wedding 11

Jekyll Island Indian Mound Wedding Planner16

Jekyll Island Indian Mound Wedding Coordinator 12

You can view their amazing video here:

Wedding Planning & Design // Cocktails & Details®
Catering & Florals  // Straton Hall
Wedding Photography // m. Newsom Photography 
Wedding Cinematography // Home Town Crew
Rentals & Lighting // Beachview Tent Rentals

Jekyll Island Convention Center Wedding
Dec 26 2016

How to Plan Your Outdoor Wedding

Jekyll Island Convention Center Wedding

Jekyll Island Convention Center Wedding Photo by: Tamara Gibson Photography

Outdoor wedding planning can be nerve wracking– while you have the allure of a beautiful wedding ceremony at sunset and reception under the stars, you also have the possibility of dealing with blistering winds, excessive heat or torrential rains.We have some amazing wedding venues on Saint Simons Island and Jekyll Island.  Many of these wedding venues capitalize on all the elements that make a perfect Southern destination wedding:  the live oaks, spanish moss and ocean views. Each year, many a bride crosses her fingers and prays Mother Nature takes mercy on her special day.

What’s the best way to plan your outdoor wedding?  Well have no fear, we’ve got some great perspective for you to consider as you start your wedding planning. Review these tips when considering your options for venues–

Consider Your Space.  Some venues have great options for both outdoor and indoor event spaces.  If you are having any element of your wedding outdoors, be it the wedding ceremony, cocktail hour or wedding reception, double check that your venue has adequate backup space for each of those events.  This may require a flip at some point, but you want to ensure that you can confidently and comfortably move your event if necessary.

Consider Your Guest List. There are several venues that offer both indoor space, with an outdoor overflow for seating. These type of venues are usually best for strolling cocktail parties versus buffets or sit down dinners. This usually causes a problem when whether concerns rear their heads as you end up paying for a venue and a tent. As a rule of thumb, if possible, it is always best to keep your guests together as much as possible, to avoid additional, avoidable fees.

Consider Your Budget.  If your wedding is completely outdoors, be sure to add in the costs of a tent as soon as you have selected your venue.  This is important.  You do not want to get caught the week of your wedding scrambling to put money together for a tent.  Moreover, keep in mind– if it is the weather is less than ideal for you, it is also wreaking havoc for other outdoor weddings in your area. This will cause tents to become in high demand on a first come, first served basis. To avoid this stress, consider putting a deposit down for a tent after you’ve booked a venue.  This allows you to have a tent reserved for your event ahead of time, avoiding the rush if the weather takes a turn for the worse.  If you turn out not to need it, you will lose your deposit, but you’ll still have priority of having a back up plan. Af

Consider Your Design. When we design for our clients’ outdoor weddings, we always design for two different events– one under a tent or indoors, and one with ideal conditions. This allows us to prepare our clients for the possibility of less than ideal weather. This always helps tamper down disappointment or the chance that our initial design does not translate well into a contingency plan.

Consider Your Time of Year. Tents aren’t just needed for rain.  It gets very hot here in the South– especially in June to August.  The sun can be unbearable during an outdoor ceremony where guests are waiting up to 30 minutes prior to its start.  If you cannot find an indoor back up for your entire wedding, consider a chapel or ballroom for the ceremony and tent for the reception.  Speaking of rain– it doesn’t just fall vertically. Rain can come in at an angle.  This means in addition to your tent, you’ll also need to secure tent walls.  Heaters and fans can keep your guests comfortable, depending upon the weather would also be a good investment.

Consider Protecting Your Investment. Hurricane Matthew turned our quaint coastal town into an near shambles, canceling many events in the process. Sadly, many couples did not have wedding insurance protecting their event from such acts of God or lost deposits from vendors. Wedding insurance provides coverage for all kinds of instances that could affect your wedding — from damage to weather, it is certainly an investment worth making.

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536
Oct 31 2016

Real Halloween Wedding on Jekyll Island at Villa Marianna

With my birthday being the day before Halloween, October has always been my favorite month.  Fall in the Golden Isles, especially on Jekyll Island, makes it the ideal wedding location  for destination weddings. We had the opportunity to work with Juan and Ingrid on their Halloween wedding at Villa Marianna and it was amazing.

This non-tranditional, unconventional wedding had everything– a fabulous bride with pink hair, a bull’s skull, a ringbear, and several custom elements for the guests (including, a Mario and Toadstool plush toss in lieu of the garter and bouquet).

 

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

villa marianna jekyll island wedding planner coordinator_0536

 

Planning & Event Management: Cocktails & Details®
Venue: Villa Marianna
Photographer: Izzy Hudgins
Caterer & Cake:
Tasteful Temptations
Calligraphy & Signage: 
Ingrid Pierre

Westin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony reception
May 26 2016

Styled Shoot: Modern Wedding at Westin Jekyll Island

When the Westin Jekyll Island opened, I knew it was going to be an amazing wedding venue.  Their courtyard provides a gorgeous ocean backdrop for a wedding ceremony or cocktail hour. It is always fun to team up with your wedding squad and flex your creative muscles. So when it was time to come up with a concept for our editorial shoot, the Westin Jekyll Island was the perfect place to tell the tale of a modern, fashionable wedding by the sea (cue DNCE’s “Cake by the Ocean“).

We designed lush, ivory florals against a delicious palette of blush, gold and champagne. The balustrade lined platform is the perfect place for a Jekyll Island wedding ceremony.
To frame the ceremony area, we debuted our new Devyn wall– a floral backdrop inspired by Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s wedding in Florence.

The table was just divine!  I loved the play on texture with the metallic and soft blush linen for the dining table. It provided the perfect base for the tall trumpet arrangement at the center.  Dinner in the courtyard of the Westin Jekyll Island is sublime!  Guests will love the views!

Westin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony reception
Westin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony reception
jekyll island westin weddingWestin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony receptionWestin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony receptionWestin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony receptionWestin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony reception

Westin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony receptionWestin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony receptionWestin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony receptionWestin Jekyll Island wedding ceremony reception

 

Event Team

LOCATION // Westin Jekyll Island

DESIGNER // Cocktails & Details®

PHOTOGRAPHY // Brooke Roberts Photography

FLORALS & FLATWARE // Straton Hall

FLORAL WALL // Cocktails & Details®

RENTALS // Beachview Event Rentals

LINENS // La Tavola & Cocktails and Details®

MENUS // Bella Figura

CHARGERS // BBJ Linen

HAIR & MAKE UP // Devyn Denae

WEDDING DRESS // Olia Zavozina

 

May 13 2016

Give Your Wedding a Tech Upgrade

We are always on the go– having our wedding plans at our fingertips is a must!  There are several websites and apps to assist in you staying on budget and inspired.  Our guest contributor, Naomi Shaw, shares how you can give your wedding a tech upgrade.

wedding websites and apps for wedding planning