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bride and groom at Crane Cottage Jekyll Island
Mar 26 2021

Jekyll Club Hotel & Crane Cottage Wedding

St Simons & Jekyll Island Weddings

COVID-19 restrictions, postponed weddings, venue changes and grey skies couldn’t keep Lauren, Christian or our Cocktails & Details® team down.

Save the Drama

With gathering restrictions changing weddings’ size and scope, this adorable couple was forced to change wedding venues. A blessing in disguise, Lauren’s dream wedding venue, Crane Cottage, was available.

Then, forty-five days before their wedding date, mandatory COVID-19 restrictions caused a postponement. So, an October 31st wedding was set in place.

Custom wedding invitations with Jekyll Island map, wedding rings and the brides accessories

Girl Time

With the Jekyll Island Club’s expansive accommodations, our couple was able to relax and enjoy time with their wedding parties at opposite ends of the resort.

Lauren spent her morning with her bridal party getting ready in the Crane Cottage’s beautiful bridal suite. Lauren chose a form-fitting white strapless dress for her wedding gown with a flared bottom and sweeping train. 

We love the dusty blue tones of her bridesmaids’ dresses, a color carried through the wedding as a soft accent color. It paired perfectly with the sage tones of the lush greenery and white floral accents.

Bride and her bridesmaids at Crane Cottage Jekyll Island

The bride’s bouquet was a loose Boho-inspired design with luscious white peonies, ranunculus, Eskimo roses, and white lisianthus. The look was finished with French wired ribbon and a unique, very personal touch. Lauren’s mother gifted her beautiful vintage-inspired lockets and a gold coin to honor her grandparents on her wedding day.

bride holding a Boho-inspired bridal bouquet with white roses, lisianthks and ranunculus
bridal bouquet with vintage photo lockets of her grandparents

Silly with a Splash of Seriousness 

Christian, who admits his favorite article of clothes, is a pair of broken-in grey Converse sneakers and randomly breaks into song and dance {. Something that always makes Lauren smile} was all business today.

groom looking in the error as he ties his bow tie before his Jekyll Island wedding

He spent his day getting ready at the Jekyll Island Club Resort. His classic tuxedo with a shawl lapel and bow tie was the look of the day. 

As a wedding gift for his bride-to-be, Christian chose a stunning pair of emerald earrings. For her gift, Lauren gifted Christian adoption papers for her dog- a gift that brought her groom to tears.

handsome groom wearing a classic tuxedo with a shawl collar and bow tie
groom crying after opening the thoughtful wedding gift from his bride-to-be

No Rain No Rainbows

Grey skies the afternoon of their wedding prevented our couple from heading off as initially planned for their first look. However, the beautiful architecture and wrought iron detailing of their wedding venue swept them away to the Italian villa of their fantasy wedding. Our Cocktails & Details® team thinks their wedding portraits that followed are pretty amazing.

bride walking up behind her groom-to-be for their first look at Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island
groom anxiously waiting as his bride-to-be walks up behind hm for their first lookout Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island
smiling groom as he sees his bride-to-be for the first time during their first look at Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island
bride and groom posing for wedding portraits in the courtyard at Crane Cottage
grey skies moved this couple's wedding portraits inside the living room at Crane Cottage

Signed, Sealed, Delivered

With the weather not cooperating, their wedding ceremony in the Sunken Garden was moved into Crane Cottage’s living room. Our Cocktails & Details® design team quickly transformed the space. The incredibly detailed fireplace mantle became a focal point of the wedding ceremony with the addition of several dozen chunky pillar candles and lush white hydrangea – one of the bride’s favorite flowers.

Lauren’s little brother, our fabulous ring bearer, brought Christian the rings to begin the wedding ceremony with wedding guests in place. Lauren smiled ear to ear as she made her way down the aisle to her anxiously awaiting groom.

ring bearer handing pillow with wedding rings to groom in the Crane Cottage living room
smiling bride as she walks down the aisle to her groom despite the ceremony moving indoors
groom holding back tears as his bride walks down the aisle to him on their wedding day

Despite the weather outside, the couple exchanged their vows in a touching ceremony surrounded by close family and friends. They sealed their wedding vows with a kiss and the perfect recessional song for this fun couple – Signed, Sealed, Delivered.

bride and groom exchanging wedding vows in front of a beautifully decorated fireplace in the Crane Cottage living room

Cocktails & Details®

With skies clearing, the newlyweds headed off for a few additional photos. At the same time, guests were welcomed with a glass of champagne. 

Newly married bride and groom walking across the lawn at the Jekyll Island Club

The cocktail hour was filled with tasty treats and specially selected signature cocktails, and monogrammed cocktail koozies.

water color artwork showcasing a couple's signature cocktails for their Crane Cottage wedding
custom drink koozies for a Jekyll Island wedding

The outdoor tented reception allowed for a physically distant design that still incorporated all of the beautiful details the couple envisioned. Tables we dressed in crisp with linen with dusty blue napkins as accents. Gold-toned containers and votive candles alongside the lush white and green floral arrangements and pillar candle clusters created a classic, elegant tablescape.

a socially distant tented wedding at JekyllIsland's Crane Cottage
White floral wedding centerpiece with lush greenery for a tented outdoor wedding at Crane Cottage

Thriller!

The wedding reception under a starry sky began with introductions, and the newlyweds first dance to “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.”

bride and groom taking to the dance floor for their first dance at a tented wedding reception at Crane Cottage

The evening was filled with delicious food and sweet toasts. The couple’s fun side was brought out with some Halloween Candy as their wedding favor, pizza as a late-night bite for wedding guests. When the wedding band played Thriller, they brought down the house.

band members of Power To Play with a few scary touches for a Halloween wedding at Crane Cottage Jekyll Island

Lauren and Christian’s evening came to a close after enjoying this simple, elegant, and yummy four-tiered white wedding cake. The groom’s cake was the perfect choice for Christian – a 007 inspired modern gold cake.

sleek modern four-tiered white wedding cake with a single white peonie
gold 007 inspired grooms cake

Following their grand exit under a shower of white rose petals, our couple headed off into the night. Congratulations, Lauren and Christian!

newlywed couple making their grand exit under a shower of white rose petals
newlywed couple scooting off in a gold cart after their Jekyll Island wedding

The Wedding Team

Jekyll Island Wedding Planner: Cocktails & Details®

Jekyll Island Wedding Venue: Jekyll Club Hotel- Crane Cottage

Hair and Makeup: Amy Jenkins and Paula Fields Makeup Artistry

Wedding Ceremony Musicians: Music By Pegge

Officiant: Michael Exum

Wedding Cake: Sweet Luncheonette

Groom’s Cake: Cathy Huber Cakes

Band: Power To Party

Wedding Photographer: Tamara Gibson

Wedding Cinematographer: Labif Filmhouse

Floral Design and Rentals: Cocktails & Details®

Photograph of the Royal Court from the Netflix show Bridgerton is inspiring Bridgerton themed weddings
Feb 19 2021

Bridgerton Inspired Weddings in The Golden Isles

Blog, Wedding Advice

Dear Reader… it’s no secret “the social season is upon us” and the Ton is not the only talk of the town. However, Bridgerton inspired weddings are sure to be a treasure “set to join the likes of the queen’s ever so cherished crown jewels themselves.”

The Golden Isles

“This author finds herself compelled to share the most curious of news.”

The Golden Isles extend way beyond golden beaches and sunsets. History tells us the name comes from Sir Robert Montgomery’s writing to wealthy Londoners about the coastal colony, which he called the Golden Islands.

And the Golden Isles, specifically our Cocktails & Details® beloved Jekyll Island, can be the perfect Bridgeton-inspired wedding location.

Jekyll Island’s Millionaires Row

Millionaires Row’s historic cottages are known for their lush gardens, courtyards, fountains, and fantastic architecture. 

Built during the period between 1904 and 1930, the mansion’s owners spared no expense. Many have been lovingly restored over the last few decades. While the detailing and design reflect those bygone days, the amenities and service are contemporary and polished. 

Known as cottages, they are not what one might think of as a ‘cottage.’ They have spacious grounds that allow guests to roam. Typically offering different vignettes for a ceremony, cocktail hour, and dinner.

All make fantastic backdrops similar to the location where Daphne and the Duke devised their plan and had their first look. 

Jekyll Island Cottages

Cherokee Cottage – built in 1904, the Cherokee Cottage is known for its interiors, privacy, and river’s edge setting. 

Front view of the historic Cherokee Cottage on Jekyll Island Georgia

Crane Cottage – built in 1917-1919 in the Italian Renaissance style, was designed with 20 bedrooms and 17 bathrooms. It was the grandest and most expensive winter home at the time. 

The Italian Renaissance styled Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island's Millionaires Row

Its sunken garden, lush courtyard, and elegant fountains are often considered to be one of the most lavish of all of the cottages.

Crane Cottage is known for it's beautiful courtyard and fountains
view of the forma gardens at Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island

Villa Marianna – built in 1928, one of the newest cottages, its detailing is in the Spanish eclectic and Italian Renaissance styles. This romantic setting offers enclosed courtyards and a large formal garden.

beautiful images of floral decor and wedding ceremony at Jekyll Island's Villa Marianna

Villa Ospo – built in 1930 in the Spanish Eclectic and Italian Renaissance styles-sits steps from the Jekyll River in the historic district’s north end. Its intimate courtyard, large terraced garden, and Great Room are ideal for elegant gatherings.

Villa Ospo on the historic Jekyll Island

“an expert in the art of the swoon.” 

The Cocktails & Details® team knows that a picturesque location alone does not a Regency-style event make.

Fortunately, dear reader, connections with the best of the best in everything weddings, we can work together to create the complete Bridgerton inspired wedding here on the Golden Isles.

wedding invitation

A bride might consider the whimsical romantic styles of an Empire waist, capped sleeves, and scoop necklines for a wedding gown. Jeweled headpieces, tiaras and accessories will be all the rage.

beaded wedding gown with Empire waist
bride carrying a gold and jeweled clutch

To dress the Duke in your life, it is unnecessary to go with tailcoats and top hats – a brightly colored modern jacket with a patterned waistcoat is sure to impress.

Luxurious floral décor in a multitude of colors with accents of gold or silver pair nicely with the Jekyll Island cottages’ architecture and décor. One might also consider a bridal bouquet with a loose, just-picked, European feel – possibly with the inclusion of white roses, the representation of purity and innocence.

wedding reception table filled with gold toned candelabras, goblets and white flowers with lush linens and gold charger plates perfect for a Bridgerton themed wedding
bride carrying a loose European styled bridal bouquet with white roses

The added touches of a talented string quartet, decadent food, an abundance of drink, fresh fruit, an ornate wedding cake, and scrumptious macrons are all symbols of high society.

The talented team of Cocktails & Details® looks forward to assisting you in creating a soiree to set society a twitter.

“I have always thought that an appreciation of the arts is what lifts us beyond mere animals. It stirs the passions and moves the spirit, and, this author hopes, inspires more newsworthy pursuits.”

~ Lady Whistledown

Bride and grommet Horton hose on Jekyll Island
Jan 22 2021

Villa Marianna & Westin Jekyll Island Wedding

St Simons & Jekyll Island Weddings

Take a fun couple who loves live music and travel and whose got planning underway, and Cocktails & Details® will pull it together and make it fabulous!

Meet Jennie and Alex

This fantastic couple selected not one but two unique Jekyll Island venues for their wedding day. 

Historic Villa Marianna would be the site of their wedding ceremony and outdoor cocktail reception. Then guests would be transported to the Westin Jekyll Island for dinner and dancing under the stars with an afterparty to follow! The stage was set for a fabulous day.

Get Ready

Jennie looked spectacular in her form-fitting wedding gown. One of two dresses for her wedding day. She chose an off the shoulder gown with crisscrossing fabric in the bodice. Her hair, worn down, and pulled to one side, created an elegant but relaxed look. 

Her loose hand-tied bridal bouquet consisted of lush greenery, white garden roses, and touches of deep burgundy-including hanging amaranthus.

bride and her bridal party getting dressed at the Westin Jekyll Island
bride wearing a form fitting, off the shoulder wedding gown with a criss cross bodice detail
bridal bouquet of greenery, white garden roses and burgundy flowers including hanging amaranthus

Alex and his guys went for a very classic look – black tuxedo, bow tie, and suspenders. Boutonnieres of white roses and eucalyptus seeds got a rustic touch with organic ribbon.

groom and groomsmen getting ready at the Westin Jekyll Island
white rose boutonnieres with seeded eucalyptus and a rustic ribbon

First Look and Fabulous Portraits

Midafternoon, the couple were each transported to Horton house for their first look, some spectacular wedding portraits, and some photos with their wedding party.

The Jekyll Island settings for their portraits are swoon-worthy and some of our favorite moments of the day!

bride and groom having their first look at the historic Horton House in Jekyll Island
first look at Horton House in Jekyll Island
bride and groom taking wedding portraits before their Jekyll Island wedding
Jekyll Island wedding photos
bride and groom posting for wedding photos
bride and groom with their wedding party

Bird Seed, Flower Petals, and an Old Oak Tree

The couple chose a two-hundred-year-old oak tree at Villa Marianna as the backdrop to exchange their wedding vows.

The processional included an entourage of young boys tossing birdseed and a young lady sprinkling flower petals.

birdseed boys and flower girls at a Villa Marianna wedding ceremony

Escorted by her mother, Jennie made her entrance to Falling Slowly by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. The ceremony included several readings, lots of laughs, and several tears. The tranquil outdoor setting was just perfect for these happy newlyweds.

Bride making her entrance escorted by her mother at Villa Marianna
outdoor Jekyll Island wedding ceremony under a two hundred year old tree at Villa Marianna
Just Married! Bride and groom kiss at the end of their Villa Mariana wedding ceremony

Cocktails & Details®

A Must-Have for Jennie and Alex were shots and cigars with their wedding party immediately after the wedding ceremony. The list also included a killer oyster bar and appetizers reflecting their travels from around the world.

bride and groom toasting with wedding party after Villa Marianna wedding ceremony
Fresh raw oysters and oyster shooters during cocktail hour at Jekyll Island wedding
International fruit and cheese display for cocktail hour at Jekyll Island wedding

The cocktail reception in Villa Marianna’s mosaic courtyard included a live jazz trio and two signature cocktails. A French 75 made with gin, lemon, and champagne, and a Hemmingway Daiquiri with rum, lime, and grapefruit.

Sunset Photos

As the cocktail hour drew to a close, guests were transported to the reception. The newlyweds took a few minutes for some stunning sunset photographs and a quick change.

Sunset wedding photos at Villa Marianna

Alex changed to a Navy-blue tuxedo jacket with a shawl collar, keeping his bow tie- a simple white pocket square was the only accessory needed.

Jennie chose a white two-piece look with a long white mermaid skirt and a modern lace off the shoulder top – she was ready to dance the night away.

Oceanside Dinner and Dancing

The reception was held in the ocean side courtyard of The Westin Jekyll Island. The outdoor space was set for dinner and dancing with outdoor space heaters added for the crisp night.

Groom boating his bride and welcoming guests at their Westin Jekyll Island outdoor wedding reception

Following introductions, Alex began the evening with a welcome and a toast. The toast was followed by a delicious dinner and cutting of an awesome two-tiered drip wedding cake and a selection of incredible custom donuts.

cake table set with a two tiered drip wedding cake and family wedding photos at the Westin Jekyll Island
Buckeyes were one of the custom flavor donuts at a Westin Jekyll Island wedding reception

Love, Love, Love!

Following dinner, the couple opened the first dance to Lay Down by Son Little and Alex’s dance with his mother.

In honor of her late father, Jennie and her brothers sang a karaoke of his favorite song –  We Didn’t Start the Fire by Billy Joel.

The fantastic band kept the dancefloor packed all night and included several custom covers of the bride and groom’s favorite songs.

After a sparkling sendoff wedding, guests joined the newlyweds for an afterparty in the hotel ballroom.

wedding guests sending newlyweds off under a shower of sparklers at the Westin Jekyll Island

Congratulations, Jennie and Alex. We wish you a lifetime filled with great food, music and new adventures!

The Wedding Team

Jekyll Island Wedding Planner: Cocktails & Details

Wedding Ceremony Venue: Villa Marianna

Hair & Makeup: b. Lush Salon

Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Musicians: South City Live

Jekyll Island Reception Venue: Westin Jekyll Island

Band: South City Live

Wedding Photographer: Ave Nocturna

Floral Designer: Jori

Transportation: St. Simons Trolley

bride and groom kissing at sunset after their Jekyll Island wedding ceremony
Oct 23 2020

Jekyll Island Wedding – Crane Cottage

Blog, St Simons & Jekyll Island Weddings

The Cocktails & Details® team loved working with Sarah and Chris to design their Jekyll Island wedding at Crane Cottage.

Sarah freely admits that she had picked the wedding venue before Chris proposed. After all, ‘we had been together five years,’ she joked. The holdup was realistically because Chris designed the ring and took great pains to source the main stone ethically.

ethically sourced stone in bride's ring designed by her groom

This environmentally conscious couple picked Crane Cottage for its historic architecture, natural beauty and because everything could happen in the same location. They wanted to have the feel of an epic house party.

bride and groom marrying in front of Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island Georgia

Here Comes The Bride!

Sarah spent the morning with her bridal party relaxing, having some fun together, and getting ready. Her wedding gown was a smooth satin organza creation with clean lines and a sweetheart neckline. A shoulder-length lace applique veil and cascading European hand tied bridal bouquet completed her elegant look.

bride and bridal party having some fun in the room at Crane Cottage
bride wearing a satin organza gown with shoulder length lace veil carrying a loose European bridal bouquet

The stunning bridal bouquet included garden roses, white ranunculus, Sahara roses, white lisianthus, and long, loose natural greenery tied with French wired ribbon.

loose European style bridal bouquet in white and cream with locally sourced greenery

Thank You For Your Service

Chris, who is currently serving in the military, wore his dress uniform as did several members of his wedding party. He was actually deployed during the wedding planning and only returned home a week before the wedding.

The guys dressed and relaxed, with sabers at the ready, for the ceremony to begin.

groom in his military dress uniform
groom and his groomsmen in dress military uniforms at Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island
groom in his military dress uniform before seeing his bride

Wanting to infuse a little personality into his wedding day, Chris had a custom tuxedo shirt created. A huge Star Wars fan, this custom shirt had the sleeves removed and a bold Star Wars print fabric added in its place. The collar, front panel, and cuff were all business with the sleeves hidden away until he removed his jacket.

groom wearing a custom made Star Wars tuxedo shirt

With This Ring

Outside, the ceremony preparations were in place. Our team utilized the rich, topiary hedgerow to frame the wedding ceremony. White roses accented the center portion of the hedge with white garden chairs, creating an extra-wide aisle.

outdoor wedding ceremony at Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island

With their wedding party already in place, Sarah, escorted by her father, made her entrance to her favorite song Lady May by Tyler Childers. To say that Chris was blown away by the first glimpse of his beautiful bride might be an understatement.

bride being escorted down the aisle by her father at Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island
groom seeing his bride for the first time as she walks down the aisle at Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island
stunned groom as he sees is beautiful bride at their wedding ceremony at Crane Cottage

Officiated by the bride’s grandmother, the touching wedding ceremony ended with a traditional arch of crossed sabers as the newlyweds made their departure.

groom crying during his wedding ceremony at Crane Cottage, Jekyll Island Georgia
crossed sabers waiting for approach of the bride and groom at Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island
bride and groom under crossed sabers after their Jekyll Island wedding

Cocktails & Details®

The elegant outdoor reception was created along the parameter of the Crane Cottages courtyard. The expansive covered walkways allowed for placement of long banquet tables paired with rustic wrought iron chairs. Crisp white linens draped the tables, which overflowed with local greenery and clusters of candles. Gold metallic risers added a shimmer, brought height to the table design, and allowed for a lush overhead cascade of greenery.

long white reception tables with lush greenery in the courtyard at Crane Cottage Jekyll Island
long wedding reception tables with gold risers and local Georgia greenery

The courtyard’s iron gate and an overhead chandelier made the perfect focal point to frame Sarah and Chris’ sweetheart table, incorporating design elements from the other tablescapes.

sweetheart table in front of iron gat in the courtyard at Crane Cottage Jekyll Island

The newly married couple made their grand entrance from the balcony above the courtyard. Following their entrance, wedding guests enjoyed a plated dinner service with a coffee and dessert bar placed in the courtyard center.

bride and groom waving from the balcony of Crane Cottage on Jekyll Island

In traditional military fashion, the couple opened the first bottle of Champagne using a military saber. Several toasts followed this by the Father of the Bride, Maid of Honor, and Best Man.

Military groom assisting his new bride in opening a champagne bottle with a saber

Death Of A Bachelor

After dinner, the couple and their guests made their way indoors for a night of dancing. Sarah and Chris opened the dance floor with their first dance to Death of a Bachelor by Panic! at the Disco.

newlyweds dancing their first dane to Death of a Bachelor by Panic! at the Disco.

This indeed was the epic house party the newlyweds dreamed about, with the dance floor remaining full throughout the evening. The night also included an impromptu choreographed dance number by Sarah and a few friends. Sarah and Chris closed the evening with a last dance to What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong.

bride and friends doing a choreographed dance at her Jekyll Island wedding
bride and friends dancing at her Crane Cottage wedding

Congratulations, Sarah and Chris! This was absolutely an epic wedding!

The Event Team

Thank you to the incredible event team that made Sarah and Chris’s wedding so amazing.

bride and groom at sunset at their wedding Crane Cottage Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island Wedding Planning: Cocktails & Details®

Jekyll Island Wedding Venue: Crane Cottage

Hair & Makeup: b. Lush Salon & Spa

Ceremony Musicians: Music by Pegge

Wedding Officiant:  Grandmother of the Bride

Catering: Jekyll Club Hotel

DJ: Hey DJ

Wedding Photography: Tamara Gibson Photography

Wedding Cinematography: Ryan Blount

Floral Design: Cocktails & Details®

Rentals: Cocktails & Details®

bride and groom in beach at Jekyll Island surrounded by driftwood
Oct 09 2020

Jekyll Island Wedding- The Westin

Blog, St Simons & Jekyll Island Weddings

Working with Michelle and David last year on their beautiful Jekyll Island wedding was an incredible experience for our Cocktails & Details® teams. 

They are admittedly the perfect complement to each other. We were blown away by the time and thoughtfulness that went into their wedding and being surrounded by family and friends.

The Ideal Wedding Location

The Westin was the ideal wedding venue for them, with everything onsite so family and friends could spend time together. It was where they had their first vacation together and simultaneously their first iterations of ‘I love You.” So, it holds a lot of sentimental meaning, was a very low key, intimate beach setting.

During their time on the island, wedding guests had the opportunity to golf, fish, or relax on the beach.

Their Wedding Style

Michelle chose a show-stopping wedding gown by Casablanca Bridal. The fit and flare silhouette layered textures and textiles, combining satin, Chantilly lace, and touches of delicate beadwork with illusion lace back and a plunging V-neckline. 

Our Cocktails & Details® team created a loose hand-tied European style bridal bouquet of ranunculus, spray roses, lisianthus, and mixed eucalyptus greenery. Blush garden roses began the color story of dusty rose and indigo blue that would flow through the wedding.

Chloe by Casablanca Bridal incorporates lace applique, satin and Chantilly lace with delicate beading and an illusion back with a deep V-neckline
Jekyll Island bride wearing a fit and flare style gown by Casablanca Bridal carrying a pink and white bridal bouquet by Cocktails and Details

Her wedding party’s attire continued the story with the ladies wearing long, flowing, dusty rose dresses. The dresses allowed each lady to choose a neckline that complimented figure and personal style.

Jekyll Island bride with her bridal party wearing dusty rose bridesmaid's dresses carrying pink and white bouquets

David and his wedding party were dressed in handsome indigo-colored suits with dusty rose ties to pair with the bridesmaid’s dresses.

Groom earring an indigo blue suite with a white ranunculus boutonniere adjusts his pocket square
bride and groom after their first look

The Ceremony

Michelle and David’s outdoor ceremony was set beyond the resort’s courtyard with sweeping lawns and rustic natural backdrop. 

Four tall floral arrangements in blush and white rested on clear acrylic columns at the aisle entrance. White garden chairs and rose petals lead to the dark wood chuppah draped in flowing white fabric and accented with floral swags.

outdoor wedding ceremony at The Westin Jekyll Island

As wedding guests gathered on the lawn, David’s nephew played a prelude of classical music. The ceremony music selections included a processional of Canon in D, with the bride making her entrance to the Bridal Chorus.

bride walking down the iaisle with her father at the Westin Jekyll Island

Michelle and David exchanged wedding rings under the chuppah before a traditional glass breaking and sealing their vows with a kiss.

bride and groom exchanging wedding vows under a chuppah at the Westin Jekyll Island

COCKTAILS & DETAILS®

Inside the ballroom, final touches were made to the reception decor. 

Tall white and dusty rose floral arrangements on glass vases were intermixed with organic flowing centerpieces in gold pedestal bowls and florals in petite glass balls. Floating, cylinder, and votive candles filled the tables.

Gold Napoleon chairs, charger plates, and votive candles added a golden shimmer to the soft pink and white backdrop.

The Westin Jekyll Island's Grand Ballroom set with pink and white florals, candles and gold Napoleon chairs.
Long tables draped with white linen accented with pink and white flora with gold chairs and accents
Grand Ballroom at The Westin Jekyll Island set for an elegant wedding reception by Cocktails and Details

The newlyweds began the evening with their first dance to ‘Til Death Do Us Part by Brian Nhira. Their dance was followed by a few words from the groom and a delicious multi-course plated dinner with wine service.

One of Michelle and David’s requests was the have everyone up on the dance floor all evening, and our team delivered with a packed dancefloor.

bride and groom dining with the bride's mother at her Jekyll Island wedding reception
bride and groom dining during their wedding reception at the Westin Jekyll Island

The evening came to a close with the bride and groom cutting an elegant three-tiered white wedding cake accented with pink roses and a custom gold cake topper, before making a grand exit under a shower of sparklers.

bride and groom cutting their three-tiered white wedding cake decorated with pink roses
Bride and groom making a grand exit under a shower of sparklers at their Westin Jekyll Island wedding reception

Congratulations, Michelle and David! Our Cocktails & Details® team wishes you a fabulous life together!

Newlyweds kissing under a shower of sparklers after their Jekyll Island wedding

The Event Team

Thank you to the wedding professionals who brought this Jekyll Island wedding to life.

Wedding Planning Team: Cocktails & Details® 

Jekyll Island Wedding Venue: The Westin, Jekyll Island

Wedding Ceremony Musicians: Island Sound

Wedding Officiant: Kim Bashor, Hitching Hearts 

DJ: Island Sound

Wedding Photographer: Rainey Gregg Photography

Florals and Rentals: Cocktails & Details® 

Hair & Makeup: Fantasy Hair and Makeup

Wedding Cake: Sweet Luncheonette

Elegantly dressed bride and groom on the porch of a rustic Savannah cabin
Aug 26 2020

Savannah Private Estate Wedding – Cocktails & Details

Blog

It’s absolutely no secret that our Cocktails & Details® team loves a little bling. So, when we worked with LA-born Katherine and her fiancé Travis to plan an elegant rustic November wedding at Savannah property where he grew up, we knew it would have a little sparkle. 

Travis may have put down some roots in Miami, but this hidden gem on Savannah’s outskirts is home. The place he played with his siblings and best man, as children, even has a cabin he built himself.

Family and friends from both coasts arrived for a 4-Day celebration. What began with a blowout Halloween bash in their private residence in Historic Savannah continued with a rehearsal dinner on The Square, the wedding day, and a post-wedding brunch back at the preserve.

Start Your Day With Champagne

On the wedding day, guests were transported to the unmarked private property for a pre-wedding Champagne reception.

The entry doors were flanked with four stunning statement pieces. Garden urns, two towering to over six-foot-tall, were overflowing with soft flowers and rustic textured grasses. Shimmering market lights and a row of crystal chandeliers added some sparkle to the wooded trail.

bride and groom standing at the entry doors to their elegant rustic wedding surrounded by tall urns of flowers and grasses
wedding guests wearing formalwear gathering in the woods under crystal chandeliers

The Happy Couple

Meanwhile, Katherine and Travis, along with their wedding parties, spent the day relaxing and getting ready in cabins on the preserve.

Travis looked smashing in his classic black tuxedo with black satin shawl collar, and he really rocked the hand-tailored feathered bow tie.

groom in a classic black tuxedo wearing a black feather bow tie

Katherine sparkled in a long sleeve, crystal-studded wedding gown with a plunging neckline from the Morning Star collection of luxury bridal designer Dana Harel.  Her monochromatic bouquet of red roses, cockscomb, and astilbe looked stunning against this simple, but lux wedding gown.

bride in a crystal Dana Harel wedding gown carrying a bright red bouquet

These back and white photos of their first look on the front porch of the cabin are epic!

black and white photo of bride walking up behind groom for their first look
black and white photos of an excited groom wiping away tears after his first look at his bride-to-be
black and white photos of a happy bride laughing after seeing her groom

With This Ring

The ceremony on a floating dock was set with garden chairs in natural wood tones, with the aisle accented with bubble vases filled with grasses, resting on locally sourced logs. The unique ceremony structure was a low wall of grasses that flowed in the breeze and allowed for spectacular views of the lake.

waterfront wedding ceremony on a floating dock, set with rustic grasses and wooden chairs
floating dock on a like set for a wedding ceremony with wooden chairs

Just before the sun began to set, the wedding party, dressed in black tie attire, entered under twinkling crystal chandeliers, followed by Katherine, making her entrance to “LA Woman’ by the Doors.

wedding party in formal black tie walking though woods
bride in elegant crystal wedding gown walking under crystal chandeliers hanging in the woods
bride being escorted onto floating dock filled with people for her wedding ceremony

The couple exchanged their “I Dos” in a touching sunset wedding ceremony officiated by Travis’ Grandmother, surrounded by loved ones.

bride and groom exchanging wedding vows officiated by the groom's grandmother

Time Alone

We would not be very kind if we didn’t share some of the newlyweds incredible wedding portraits. The fall colors and rustic setting were the perfect backdrops.

bridrounde and groom standing on a floating dock kissing with fall colored trees in the backg
overhead view of a bride and groom standing on a dock in the middle of a lake
bride and groom holding hands while standing on a floating dock over lake

Cocktails & Details®

Following the lakeside wedding ceremony, guests enjoyed each other’s company, and some bite-sized passed hors d’ oeuvres.

Some well-placed vintage furnishings offered casual seating, while the cabin that Travis build was converted into a well-stocked Bourbon and Cigar Lounge. The lounge included His and Hers Signature cocktails – his an Old Fashion and hers, a Mint Julep. Classic.

vintage lounge furniture sitting in the woods for cocktail reception
bottles of Bulliet Bourbon sitting on gold shelves in the Bourbon and Cigar Laoungs
a box of Champagne 10th anniversary cigars in the Bourbon and Cigar lounge

Inside the reception tent, every last detail was being double-checked. Long wooden tables were dressed with greenery, glass bottles, and vases filled with grasses and soft florals in rustic containers. 

Votive candles, tall black taper candles, copper flatware, knotted taupe-colored napkins, custom place cards that matched guests’ escort cards, and wooden table numbers added texture and depth to the design.

The tent was dotted with strands of lights, with rattan chandeliers along its length. A cloud of grasses floated above the head table, giving the tent a unique focal point.

wooden farm table set with rustic grasses and floral arrangements
neutral tone custom escort cards sitting in slices of wood
tented wedding reception with twinkle lights, rattan chandeliers, and elegant place settings on wooden farm tables
nighttime view of wedding reception with lit rattan chandeliers, twinkle lights and candles

Nearly 150 guests enjoyed a plated dinner, tableside wine service and several toasts before taking to the dance floor.

A Sweet Ending

Everyone paused long enough to enjoy the show-stopping dessert station. Dessert featured a three-tiered textured black wedding cake, surrounded by tiny sweet treats on wooden crates and gold cake stands. Dessert service also included a specialty coffee and espresso trailer.

black wedding cake and desserts sitting on a wooden farm table
Specialty coffee trailer for wedding reception

The brief respite for dessert was followed by a return to the dancefloor for a disco interlude, complete with disco ball, a change into 70’s attire, and props for guests.

Fireworks, late-night snacks, and a 1:15 last call to end the night didn’t deter anyone, with the after-party continuing until nearly five in the morning.

bride and groom sitting on a rustic swing under a neon sign with their last name

Congratulations, Katherine and Travis, our Cocktails & Details®  team loved working with you to create a one of a kind rustic elegant Savannah wedding!

We wish you a lifetime filled with images just like this.

Happy bride and groom sitting on rocking chairs on the front porch of a rustic cabin

The Event Team

Savannah Wedding Planning Team: Cocktails & Details® 

Savannah Wedding Venue: Private Estate

Savannah Wedding Hair & Makeup: Emma Collins Beauty

Décor: Cocktails & Details® 

Wedding Officiant: Ms. Cockrum, Travis’ Grandmother

Hilton Head Wedding Photographer: Hopkins Studio

Band: Mr. Potato Head

DJ: All About You Entertainment

Mixology Team: InDnGrl

Catering: Savannah Events Catering

Coffee Trailer: Three Tree Coffee Roasters

Desserts: Lulu’s Chocolate Bar

Savannah Transportation: Kelly Tours

New Year, New Look!

Company News

wedding planners and coordinators in st simons island jekyll island and sea island

If you haven’t visited us in a while, you’ll see we have a brand new look!  We decided to ditch the our cookie cutter look and get something completely custom.  We told our fabulous designer, Sunil we only wanted three things: modern, feminine and something to get our future clients excited about their wedding process.  Needless to say, we feel like he knocked it out of the park.

St. Simons Jekyll Island Wedding Planner

We felt like this was the perfect look to kick off 2012, as we engage with new clients who are looking  for a one of a kind wedding experience here in St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island and the surrounding areas.  That being said we didn’t stop there– we did a revamp of our service collections, company wide correspondence and forms.  Additionally, what’s new this year– you can schedule your phone or video consultations with us online, guaranteeing priority and reservation.

Wedding Services Look Book for Cocktails and Details

We love our new look and hope you do, too!

In the News: See Terrica on WTOC- Channel 11 for the Jekyll Dream Wedding!

Company News, St Simons & Jekyll Island Weddings

I’m a little late blogging this, but in case you’ve missed my tweets and status updates, I had the honor of being on WTOC’s Mid-Morning Live in early August! It was a wonderful opportunity to share the excitement of all the Jekyll Dream Makers for the Wedding Giveaway that is still happening RIGHT NOW! (That was your cue to get your entry in!)

View the video of my first segment on live on air and learn about all the wonderful inclusions of this wonderful wedding package from some of the areas BEST vendors like The Jekyll Club Hotel, Latitude 31, Tasteful Temptations, Brooke Roberts Photography, iMint Media, Image Artisans and so many more! I’m also staking out space each Wednesday for Wedding Wednesday answering all wedding related questions on Jekyll Island’s Facebook page! I look forward to seeing you there for my “happy hour” from 6-7 PM!

Real Villa De Suenos Wedding :: St. Simons Island

St Simons & Jekyll Island Weddings

Real St. Simons Villa De Suenos Wedding

Working with Chris and Tania was an absolute joy!  They contacted us about planning their wedding on Saint Simons Island when the oil spill devastated the Gulf and their destination wedding plans.  Within about three months, we had plan an entire wedding which was drenched in green cymbidium orchids and other tropical florals, brilliant sapphire silk bridesmaids dresses, coastal cuisine, a live R&B band against the beautiful backdrop of Villa De Suenos— the gorgeous oceanfront property on Saint Simons Island’s East Beach.  You can also see more delicious images at Melanie and Bradford of La Dolce Vita Studio’s awesome blog.

Villa De Suenos St. Simons Wedding

St. Simons Wedding Planner and Coordinator

Champagne Ivory wedding shoes

Villa De Suenos Wedding in St. Simons

Villa De Suenos Rental Wedding

Green cymbidium orchid wedding bouquet

Villa De Suenos St. Simons Wedding and Reception

Villa De Suenos Wedding on St. Simons Island

St. Simons Wedding Cake with navy ribbon and green cymbidium orchid

St. Simons Wedding Band

St. Simons Wedding Planner and Wedding Coordinator

Villa De Suenos Wedding Planner

Wedding Reception at Villa De Suenos

St. Simons Wedding at Villa De Suenos

Event Team

Wedding Planning + Production (Coordination):  Cocktails + Details // Wedding Photography:  La Dolce Vita Studio // Wedding Ceremony and Reception Venue:  Villa De Suenos
Catering + Flowers:  Straton Hall // Band:  Tangee Renee + the Club Visage Band // Rentals:  Beachview Tent Rentals // Hair and Makeup:  Image Artisans

Real St. Simons Wedding :: Whitney + Ben

St Simons & Jekyll Island Weddings

lovely lane chapel wedding st simons

We had the pleasure of working with Whitney + Ben for their beautiful, yet whimsical French countryside inspired wedding on St. Simons Island.  After a week long of festivities that included welcome parties, the couple exchanged vows at the Lovely Lane Chapel on St. Simons Island.  At the chiming of the hour, bridesmaids donned in black Audrey Hepburn-esque cocktail dresses walked down the aisle preceding Whitney’s arrival.

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st simons island wedding planner and coordinator

St. Simons Trolley for Weddings lovely lane chapel wedding st simons island

St. Simons Trolley for Weddings St. Simons Trolley for Weddings

Many from Ben’s family flew in from France to attend the wedding, so this served as a mini reunion for his family, as well as an opportunity for Whitney to meet her extended family.  The couple danced to “Zydeco Gris Gris” for their first dance, which kicked of the festivities New Orleans style.

Ben’s family is French, so much of the personal touches incorporated his French heritage, Whitney’s education in New Orleans and many of her own family traditions.  For example, Whitney’s maternal grandparents owned a blueberry and honey farm. Small jars of honey from the farm were given as additional favors and served a double purpose as escort cards.  Much of the menu included Coastal local favorites, as well as French and New Orleans inspired dishes like duck confit and shrimp étouffée.  Their signature drink was the “Golden Aisle“, a play on the wedding’s location (the Golden Isles) and wedding festivities, which consisted of Firefly (Sweet Tea Vodka) to represent the Georgia inspiration and Perrier, to combine the French.  Ben is also a graphic designer and designed all of the signage for the tables, bars, escort card tags, programs, and invitations which are inspired by an old Oak that sits outside of the St. Simons Casino.

st simons casino wedding atrium wedding planner st simons casino wedding atrium wedding planner st simons casino wedding atrium wedding planner

st simons casino wedding atrium wedding planner florist

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|Vendor Details|:

Wedding Coordinator: Cocktails + Details, St. Simons Island;
Caterer/Florist: Straton Hall, Jekyll Island;
Photographer:  Jason Travis, Atlanta;
Church: Lovely Lane Chapel, St. Simons Island;
Reception Venue: St. Simons Casino, St. Simons Island;
Linens:  Beachview Tent Rentals, Brunswick;
Band: Stringrays, St. Simons Island;
Transportation: St. Simons Trolley, St. Simons Island.