Friday, January 2, 2015

Charming Vows In South Carolina

Words by Taylor Wilson
Photos courtesy of Suggs Photography

It’s pretty obvious why Karley and Taylor chose Hilton Head, South Carolina as the locale for their destination wedding. While vacationing there with both of their families, the couple instantly fell in love with the allure and beauty this quaint town possessed. “Since I’m from Texas and Taylor is from North Carolina, it made sense to ‘meet in the middle’ with a fun, beachside wedding,” explains Karley.

While planning the wedding, Karley admits she left several things up to chance, recalling many prayers, crossed-fingers, and “whatever” moments. However, her nonchalant attitude was definitely not because she didn't care, but because she saw these aspects out of her control and felt the need to trust everything would work out in the end. Karley felt strongly about not stressing over the little things and this attitude truly pushed her to recognize what was most important. “Our all-over-the-place planning process forced me to keep my eyes on the prize: marrying my best friend, which, let’s be honest, was vastly more important than the color of the table linens I selected.”

Karley and Taylor’s unique situation of being a “Hitched in a Hurry” couple left them with a little over 4 months to plan, as they just couldn't wait to get married. Therefore, they struggled finding resources that fit their timeframe. Karley knew there had to be other couples out there with the urge to walk down the aisle as soon as possible so she began recording her experiences through a blog for Dallas’ premier wedding magazine. This column has since become a book, and Hitched in a Hurry: The ultimate how-to for a speedy “I do” is now available for all couples as a resource for hosting a wedding with limited time to plan.

Had Karley and Taylor stayed in Dallas to host their wedding, it would have been much more formal, which is exactly what the bride wanted to avoid. In choosing to have a destination wedding, the couple’s day was more intimate and relaxing, including a “beach play day” after their reception brunch with all of their guests, soaking up the surf, sand and sun together.

As for advice? “I could say, ‘stay organized’ or ‘make lots of to-do lists’ or ‘don’t over-Pinterest’ but those things aren’t nearly as important as this: Focus on your marriage, not the wedding itself. Your wedding ceremony will be beautiful and special, but no matter how much time, energy, and money you pour into it, it will only last for 24 hours. Your marriage is meant to last a lifetime. Invest accordingly.

Photographer: Suggs Photography, Wedding Planner: Sweet P Designs, Ceremony/Reception Site: Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, Florist: Flowers by Sue, Stationery: Minted; Cake: Signe’s Heaven Bound Bakery, Hair & Makeup: The Styling Stewardess, Gown Designer: Vera Wang by David’s Bridal, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Michael Kors, Groomsmen’s Clothing Designer: Michael Kors, Parasols: Luna Bazaar