Michelle March

The roots of Coca Cola run deep in the South, as the prototype for the Coca Cola recipe was originated in a drugstore in Columbus, Georgia. But it might appear that the drink’s roots trace all the way to Europe. In 1886, the prohibition legislation was passed in Georgia, so John Pemberton, Coke’s inventor responded by creating a non-alcoholic version of French Wine Coca.

On April 23, 1985, Coca-Cola, amid much publicity, attempted to change the formula of the drink with “New Coke.” Follow-up taste tests revealed that most consumers preferred the taste of New Coke to both Coke and Pepsi, but Coca-Cola management was unprepared for the public’s nostalgia for the old drink, leading to a backlash. The company gave in to protests and returned to a variation of the old formula, under the name Coca-Cola Classic on July 10, 1985. As for the that famous Coca-Cola logo, it was created by John Pemberton’s bookkeeper, Frank Mason Robinson, in 1885. Robinson came up with the name and chose the logo’s distinctive cursive script.

Top to bottom: 13:13 Photography via Southern Weddings, Melissa Schollaert via Southern Weddings, and Adam Barnes via Southern Weddings

A few fun facts about our beloved Coke:

- Due to the belief that carbonated water was good for the health, “Coke” was initially sold as a patent medicine for five cents.
- The company did not incorporate into the Coca Cola Company until 1888.
- Coca Cola was sold in those fabulous classic glass bottles for the first time on March 12, 1894.
- Coca Cola’s first outdoor wall advertisement was painted in 1894 in Cartersville, Georgia.

Erich McVey via Style Me Pretty and Sarah Ashley Peters Photography

As a former Diet Coke addict, I love seeing Coke at weddings! Whether it’s the classic Coke in a bottle or Coke floats, the nostalgia is still completely there. Not too mention it’s quite the refreshing treat!

We took an office poll to see which would win, Coke or Pepsi. Apparently we’re a mixed bag! Lara prefers her Smartwater, Emily is all over Coke Zero, Nicole is a Classic Coke gal (unless it’s up against Orange Soda duh!), and I must admit I cannot resist a good ol’ ice cold Coke in a bottle!

Which do you prefer? Are you a Classic Coke gal or is Pepsi more your style?

Michelle March, Melissa Schollaert, and Adam Barnes are fabulous members of our Blue Ribbon Vendor Directory!

From top: deviled eggs by Cru Catering (photo by A Bryan Photo via Southern Weddings), deviled eggs with prosciutto (photo and recipe from Pixelated Crumb), lobster deviled eggs from Coastal Living (photo by Becky Luigart-Staynor), deviled eggs topped with bacon (photo by Cyn Kain)

A few interesting facts about deviled eggs: The term “deviled” dates back to the 19th century, when the term was coined to refer to particularly piquant (hot or spicy) spices in cooking. In Belgium, a variation known as “Russian eggs” is served. This version is where the eggs are filled with caviar and served in rémoulade sauce (not so sure about that one). In some parts of the South, the terms “salad eggs” or “dressed eggs” are used, particularly when the dish is served in connection with a church function.

We love the idea of serving deviled eggs at a wedding cocktail hour for a little down home flavor, especially when you dress up the classic with one of these creative ideas! The deviled egg topping bar below is particularly fun and interactive!

Clockwise from top left: deviled eggs with topping bar from My Recipes (photo by Jennifer Davick), pimento cheese deviled eggs from Southern Living (photo by Jennifer Davick), buffalo chicken deviled eggs (photo and recipe by Baked by Rachel), beet-pickled deviled eggs from The Kitchn (photo by Leela Cyd Ross)

Want to try your hand at deviling some eggs? Cool hard-boiled eggs, peel and half lengthwise. Remove the yolks, then mash and mix with your favorite ingredients, such as mayonnaise, mustard, tartar sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Then scoop the yolk mixture and place into the egg “cups.” Lastly, garnish with Old Bay, paprika, curry powder, chives, and/or dill!

Do you like deviled eggs? Will you be serving them at your wedding? Do you prefer the classic version, or would you try one of the bolder varieties in this post?

Credits, from top to bottom: clip from Tessa Kim, photo by Harwell Photography, unknown, Jasmine Star via Style Me Pretty, Adam Barnes via Southern Weddings

Achieving the perfect Southern Bump does not happen by chance – oh no. It takes practice and the right tools! On your wedding day, I would advise leaving it to the professionals, and bringing in lots of photos the show what you want. Also, be sure your hair is longer than you think you’ll need, because the teasing needed to get that perfect bump will eat up the length of your hair quickly.

If you’re brave enough to try the bump at home, I suggest investing in the right products. I am a HUGE fan of Big Sexy Hair’s What a Tease – this stuff really works. You flip over the dry hair you want to pouf, and spray this super sticky hairspray-like concoction on the underside. Let it dry, then flip the hair back over. Viola! Instant backcombing without the damage. If you want more bump or hold, I suggest teasing before spraying in the What a Tease. Also in the big hair arsenal? A teasing comb and good dry shampoo.

Credits, from top to bottom: Heather Kincaid, Crystal Genes via Southern Weddings, Justin & Mary, and The Youngrens via SMP

Once last tip that one of our dear readers shared with me: if you have fine hair, using big ol’ hot rollers instead of a curling iron helps create the initial volume needed for just the right amount of pouf.

Have you got the Southern Bump down to an art? Share your secrets with us in the comment section below! Please! I am always looking to learn how to better work this hair!

P.S. If you’re looking for a how to video for teasing, hop over to Katie’s blog (that I’m obsessed with) here for a quick tutorial! Happy teasin’, y’all!

Harwell Photography and Adam Barnes are fabulous members of our Blue Ribbon Vendor Directory!

Photos by Beatrice de Gea for the New York Times

That’s right, today we’re discussing the Debutante Cotillion. Also known as the Deb Ball, this Southern tradition is a formal presentation of young ladies – debutantes – to society. During the ball, the young ladies are to be wearing white gowns with satin gloves. Each is formally introduced individually to the audience in standard way: her full name is announced, she is walked around the stage by her father for the official presentation, and then her younger male escort joins her and escorts her away.

Recognize that gorgeous redhead? That’s our Editor in Chief Ms. Lara Casey at her own Debutante Cotillion! Isn’t she stunning?

Back to business! A debutante is a young lady, traditionally from an aristocratic family, who has reached the age of maturity. Now that she is an adult, she is introduced to society at a formal “debut” presentation. Interesting to note, while doing my homework, I found that Wikipedia offers Southern Belle as the synonym for a debutante!  In another fun fact, the Christmas Cotillion in Savannah, Georgia, is the oldest debutante ball in the United States, beginning in 1817.

Photos by Beatrice de Gea for the New York Times

I’m a bit partial to cotillions, not because I was a debutante (I’m still sad I was never able to be an Azalea Trail Maid!), but because my sister in law’s debutante ball was my husband’s and my first official outing as a couple! And yes, my husband rocked a pink bow tie and cummerbund set!

Were you a debutante? Did you have a cotillion, or have you ever attended one? 

P.S. Looking for a laugh? Take a gander at what my beloved Azalea Trail Maids wear! Yes, they wear those to this day! SO awesome! :)

Top to bottom: Aaron Shintaku, Melissa Young, Gina Leigh via Peanut Butter Fingers, Three Pennies

What do you think about this alternative to the first look? Would you try it, or did you?

Missed our other first look alternative? Check it out here! I’ll warn you though, you might need to bust out the tissues!

A little history: Chicken and waffles is a soul food dish that combines delicious waffles with (usually) fried chicken. The waffle is usually drizzled with butter and/or syrup, which only adds to the deliciousness factor (and, yes, the calorie count). The exact origin of this semi-crazy combination is unknown, but according to one story, it actually has deep roots, dating from the 1790′s, when Thomas Jefferson brought a waffle iron home from France. The combo of chicken and waffles started appearing in cookbooks shortly thereafter.

A Bryan Photo via Southern Weddings (food by Cru Catering), Eclectic Images, Ingalls Photography via Martha Stewart Weddings, Jessica Lorren, last two by Vitalic Photo via Style Me Pretty

No matter where this tradition started, we Southerners have embraced it! According to my secret Northerner source (shh, it might be Miss Emily), this Southern delicacy is particularly baffling to our counterparts up North. I’m not sure what to tell her except that perhaps it’s in our genes!

On a final note, I am personally so excited to see this delicacy being served at Southern fetes. We all know I’m a bit of a tradition freak, so seeing couples serving this truly Southern combo to their guests has me tickled pink. Because chicken and waffles is such a flexible dish, it’s perfect for almost every wedding event, from cocktail hour to a midnight snack to a going away brunch the next morning. We also love the idea of printing your grandmother’s waffle recipe on a muslin bag and sending it home with your guests as a homespun favor!

Tell me: Do you love chicken and waffles? What’s your favorite Southern food? Will you be serving a Southern delicacy at your wedding?

Psst… hungry for more?
Our Southern fixin’s Pinterest board
Black-eyed peas
Benne wafers

Jessica Lorren and Cru Catering are fabulous members of our Blue Ribbon Vendor Directory!

Imagine sitting by this pool relaxing with your BFFs while drinking a yummy frozen drink. Seriously, I just might steal this giveaway! One Ocean Resort & Spa is located on the white sands and surf-worthy waves of the Atlantic Ocean, minutes away from Jacksonville, Florida, and nestled directly across from the picturesque Beaches Town Center. The cobblestone streets and eclectic mix of shops, ice-cream parlors and nightlife options are made for the perfect getaway!

Let’s switch dreams: Now imagine you’re laying by your own Mr. Wonderful in the Florida sun. You’ve just tied the knot, and yes, you’re again sipping on a yummy frozen drink. A bit later, the two of you might explore the picturesque beach-side communities of Jacksonville Beach via adorable beach cruiser bikes. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might hop over to neighboring Neptune Beach, which offers miles of sugar white sand and plays host to rich cultural events like the North Beaches Art Walk.

YES, PLEASE! Take me there! Y’all know I’d be hitting the beach and shops one day, then spending some R&R time at the Spa the next. Which is awesome, because One Ocean Key has a bevy of amazing amenities like the Azurea Restaurant, with its award-winning chef, or sports packages for you athletic folk!

Ready for the details? One Ocean Resort & Spa will provide the winner with a three-night weekday stay! We like the idea of using it as a honeymoon getaway, a getaway with the girls, or a second honeymoon! Airfare is not included.

There are three way to enter, and you can choose to enter via just one way or all three!

1. Leave a comment below and tell us what kind of trip you’d take if you won this giveaway.

2. Like One Ocean Resort & Spa on Facebook. Be sure to leave a comment to let us know you did.

3. Post on Facebook with a link to this contest. Be sure to leave a comment below with a link to your post.

This giveaway closes on March 27th! Want something to tide you over? Take a look at the Honey List!

Until the first day back from their honeymoon, when they got into a fight on the way home from the airport about whether his new authentic Hawaiian shirt was really “accidentally” left at the hotel, or if the girl left it there on purpose.  (She’d never appreciated his ability to pull off a bold print, it turns out.)

And then there was that whole nine month pregnancy thing before their first baby arrived when she pretty much complained from the time she opened her eyes in the morning until she closed them at night, occasionally throwing in an appropriately timed, “You did this to me!” when the mood was right.

Of course, they ended up with careers in public education and public theater, so the million dollar paychecks never quite made it into their bank account.  And sitting around eating bonbons all day was replaced by walking around all day telling middle school boys to keep all of their body parts to themselves and insisting that all flying scenery be fire proof.

And they moved only about 30 minutes away from the mother-in-law, so it’s anyone’s guess how that whole opinions-to-herself thing is working out…

No, that fairy tale never came to pass.  Very few actually do.  Which is good, because if all fairy tales came true, we’d all be walking around dodging angry dwarfs, fire-breathing dragons, and ugly stepsisters.

The idea of a happily ever after in marriage has always intrigued me, mostly because I’ve changed my own mind about whether it’s actually possible at least a dozen times so far.  When I was a newlywed, I believed that happily ever afters really existed, and that the goal of marriage was to work towards that happy ending.  Later in my marriage, during those transformative years when we were transitioning from a couple to a family, I had a hard time believing in happily ever afters at all.  I felt like babies were going to cry and poop on me for the rest of my life, and whoever saw a princess ride off into a sunset with poop on her dress?

But as life has settled down for us in the past year or so, I’ve changed my mind once again about happily ever afters.  I do think they are possible.  But who really wants one?

Did you ever stop to think about why most fairy tales end with that catch phrase?  It’s because the real story, the real meat of the fairy tale, comes from the action before the ending.  No one cares too much about what happens after the prince and princess ride off into the sunset.  That’s no fun.  The real story in a fairy tale is in the struggle and the imperfection of the characters.  It’s not about looking forward to the ending in a story.  What makes a story worth reading is what happens before the story ends.

Marriage is one of those things that is best lived in the present tense.  You can’t go forward if you’re holding on to the past, and you can’t honor the past if you refuse to move forward.  And what’s in between the past and the future?  The present.

Be present in your marriage.  Plan for the future, yes.  Remember where you’ve been, yes.  But be present in the here and now.  Appreciate your spouse for what they have given you today.  One of the recurring complaints my husband makes about me in our marriage is that I don’t appreciate the little things he does.  And he’s right.  I really struggle with focusing on today in my marriage, and, instead, choose to point fingers at things he’s done in the past or worry about what’s to come in the future.  And all the while I’m fussing over those things, the day-to-day love in our marriage passes me right by.

Last weekend, my husband had to work from 9:00am until 10:00pm from Friday through Monday.  That left me home over a three-day weekend with our two kids, one toddler who is potty training and one baby who had pink eye.  I knew it wasn’t his fault, but I was really irritated.  But you know what?  Every night Chris came home for dinner and to help me put the kids to bed… and then he’d head back up to his office to keep on working.  So, I had a choice.  I could be mad at him for how my weekend had turned out, or I could choose to be grateful for what he was doing in that moment.  I chose to be grateful, and for three full hours every night, we had a really great time getting the kids fed, bathed, and put to bed together.  And then, yes, he had to leave.  And, yes, I was irritated to be alone again.  But had I not chosen to be grateful for what he was doing in that present moment, I would have missed those fun moments splashing with him by side of the tub during bath time, and I would have missed catching up with him in the kitchen while I cooked dinner and he gallantly fended off our hungry children (who were starting to resemble fire-breathing, hungry dragons by that time).

When we wait for and expect the happily ever after ending, we sometimes miss the once upon a time that’s happening today.  So, be present in your marriage and appreciate the happiness that is in your relationship today.  After all, sometimes it takes a fire-breathing dragon to fan the flames in a relationship.  Enjoy your once upon a time, and I promise you that the happily ever after will work itself out.

What’s your version of happily ever after?

All lovely photos by EE Photography, first seen in one of our recent Facebook Friday features!

P.S. Check out Katie’s past columns for Southern Weddings:
I believe in Valentine’s Day
Change is the Name of the (Newlywed) Game
My Wedding Registry Changed My Life
Working it Out With the In-Laws
Managing Your Money
Come on Baby, Light My Fire
On Moving

Jason Mize, next two Ray Anthony, Dixie Pixel, Julie A. Whitlock

Y’all, these images could bring a tear to the driest eye!

Emily and I are both huge fans of this sweet twist! The moment when a father first sees his daughter in her wedding gown can be a very emotional and memorable moment. Especially when, as in the photo by Dixie Pixel above, his daughter chooses to wear his wife’s wedding gown! Though a wedding day is focused on the bride and groom, we love when a bride takes a few minutes to spend with just her father.

Special thanks to Moment Junkie, where we found several of these images! Check out their blog for many more moving wedding photographs.

Will you be having a “first look” or did you do a “first look” with your groom or your Dad? What do you think of this new twist on the tradition?

Dixie Pixel is a fabulous member of our Blue Ribbon Vendor Directory!

After my lovely greeting, I entered through the big glass doors and was immediately greeted by a pool! A pool in the lobby – how sleek! Then the nicest (nicest!) front desk staff, who all called me “Mrs. Kloess” pronounced correctly, checked me in, and I headed up to our room.

The view was gorgeous, and the room was filled with pops of lime green! It was so fresh and fun looking. I then headed down to the SeaGrille to meet with Carole (the Director of Public Relations) and Sean (the General Manager). Meeting people with those titles, you’d think I was important.

After meeting with Carole and Sean for a few minutes about the resort and the property, BDK met me for dinner at SeaGrille. Between the pretzel bread and fresh catch-of-the-day fish dip, we were in heaven! I could live off that pretzel bread – no joke. They even had “Southern red velvet cake” for desert! You cannot beat that!

When we arrived back to our room, there was a lovely basket full of fruit and cheese and a card wishing me “happy birthday.” It was so sweet, and really impressed me from a client relations perspective!

The next day we headed over to the main resort for a treatment at Spa Palazzo. Spoiled? I know, right?! But, it was my birthday! We even got to take a little boat through the intercoastal waterway over to the other side. It was so fun!

BDK and I both received deep tissue massages in the couple’s room, and y’all! If you’re planning a vacay to South Florida, you need to stop at Spa Palazzo! I was even impressed with the citrus-infused water. It really is the small things!

After our massage, we took the super fun little boat back to the Beach Club to enjoy some time by the pool. Unfortunately the weather refused to cooperate, as the wind was so bad we ended up heading back up to our room. That’s okay though, as it was about time to get all gussied up for dinner at 501 East.

My apologies for the wonky images, this last bundle is from my iPhone. But can you see in the one on the left that they brought me a birthday cake? With my name on it?! How unbelievably nice! I was completely surprised and felt so special. Oh and for dinner, BDK and I both opted for steak and sweet potato fries. Everything was delicious, and the fries even had maple syrup on them! YUM!

If you’re looking for a luxurious honeymoon resort, this is the place – hands down! From the private bungalows by the pool, to the boat rides between the Beach Club and the main resort, you’ll be lavished with a great beach view, and fresh and fun decor. I also must say that the service at the Boca Beach Club was beyond amazing. We felt like royalty! We are so thankful for their sweet Southern hospitality! Special thanks to Carole, Sean, and the entree BBC team for having us!

All images courtesy of the Boca Beach Club, except for the last one.

P.S. Take a trip over to The Honey List to get the scoop on even more lovely properties!

P.P.S. Brides, did you have a fabulous honeymoon? Email me and let us know! Properties, want to get involved? Shoot me an email, and let’s chat!

Tec Petaja

Estate jewelry is defined as “previously owned jewelry that is of a vintage and/or antique nature.” I’m sold already! Tradition dictates that women in the South pass their engagement ring diamond, or their entire engagement ring, onto their first born son to be given to his future bride. Once she becomes a mother, the tradition continues as the diamond or ring is passed from generation to generation.

According to my mother in law, many women in the South are given an additional band on their tenth (or more) anniversary as a sort of replacement for the ring given away.

Now it’s time to talk about your pretty, pretty sparklers, ladies! If you have a diamond engagement ring, is it an estate piece? Or did your beau (or you and your beau!) pick out something entirely new? Share, share, share away!

P.S. We love these Southern traditions, too:
A moment of prayer before the ceremony
Carrying a white Bible in lieu of a bouquet
The sorority sing

Tasty Kitchen

Eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day (or shortly after midnight on New Year’s Eve) is thought to bring prosperity and good luck to those who partake. The practice of eating black-eyed peas for luck is generally believed to date back to the Civil War. Today, the tradition of eating black-eyed peas for the New Year has evolved into a number of variations, including serving them with greens (for good luck with money) or with cornbread (no word on what that’s supposed to do for you).

For the best chance of luck every day in the year ahead, one must eat at least 365 black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day. That’s a lot of peas! Some Southerners add a shiny penny or dime to the pot just before serving, and the person whose bowl contains the coin receives the best luck for the New Year. Reminds me of my husbands crazy meemaw, who used to put a horseshoe in the dog’s water for extra iron!

We love that some Southern brides have chosen to incorporate black-eyed peas into their wedding days, whether using them as a mason jar or vase filler, or tossing them for good luck instead of confetti or petals!

Credits from top to bottom and left to right: Melissa Schollaert via this awesome V4 wedding, next two images Millie Holloman via SMP, Morgan Trinker, and Studio 56 Photography

Does your family have any crazy New Year’s traditions? How many of y’all eat black-eyed peas and/or collard greens at the New Year? Will you or have you incorporated black-eyed peas into your wedding decor?

Hungry for more? Dig into our other Southern Delicacies:
Grits
King Cake
Benne Wafers

Credits from left to right and top to bottom: First two images A Bryan Photo, Jen Huang via SMP, Christian Oth via Martha Stewart, Lisa Lefkowitz, Meg Smith, John Dolan via Martha Stewart, and Meg Smith

Like I said, I had an idea in mind of what I wanted to wear: a long ball gown (that’s right, I don’t do anything half way!). On my “scouting trip,” I tried on an amazing Adrianna Papell ball gown. (BDK said I looked like the villain at the engagement party in Bridesmaids in it – yes, please!!) Unfortunately, they didn’t have my size. Anywhere in America. Yes, a bit dramatic, but I needed this dress. Come on, you know that feeling! Long story not so short, it arrived at my house just yesterday (yes, the wedding is Saturday)! I’ll tweet pics for sure!

Anyways! Now that you know what a crazy person I can be, let’s talk about what YOU should wear if you get a black tie invitation in the mail. According to the fabulous Ms Emily Post, black tie calls for fellows in black tuxedos with formal (piqué or pleated front) white shirts, bow ties, and cummerbunds. We of course support this, since all Southern men should always wear bow ties! Gloves are not required, and in the summer white dinner jackets with black tuxedo paints are acceptable. Southern belles should don formal floor-length gowns, a very dressy cocktail dress, or your dressiest LBD. If you do choose to go the LBD route, be sure you fancy that sucker up with your best sparklers, and highest heels!

As y’all know, every dress code is open to interpretation, but let’s talk specifically about Southern black tie attire. Game day dresses are a huge decision in the South, so as you can imagine, black tie means dress up! When are you going to have the chance to zip up the ball gown, put on those ear baubles (thanks for the term, ABQ), and dance around with your honey? When it comes to black tie attire, I’m with Oscar Wilde – “you can never be overdressed.”

Want some shopping inspiration? Take a gander at our black tie-worthy Shopping Guide:

A. David Meister Sequin Tank Gown ($578), B. JS Boutique Pleated Gown ($219), C. Adrianna Pappel Rosette Ball Gown ($238), D. BCBG Maxazria Printed Metallic Evening Gown ($313), E. Monique Lhuillier Pleated Gown ($238), F. JS Boutique Sequin Trim Gown ($188), G. Decode Striped Evening Gown ($229), H. David Meister One-Shoulder Brooch Gown ($560), I. Betsey & Adam Jersey Gown ($180), J. Mignon One-Shoulder Gown ($415), K. Adrianna Pappel Tiered Gown ($199), L. Anna Elyse Convertible Dress ($220), M. Elisa J. One-Shoulder Cocktail Dress ($168), and N. Miss Sixty Pleated Gown ($148).

Which dress would you choose for a black tie event? Do you have a go-to black tie dress? Have you ever had the chance to attend a black tie wedding? Are you HAVING a black tie wedding? Let us know!

Have a question on what to wear to an event? Leave a comment below, and we’ll help ya out!

Mark Eric Photography

In the South, particularly Mobile, the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and Louisiana, the king cake is a Mardi Gras tradition. Normally served on Fat Tuesday (the day before Ash Wednesday), the king cake is a ring of twisted sweet bread topped with icing or sugar. Depending on how you feel about such things, they can look either festive or garish, because they’re usually colored purple, green, and gold with food coloring.

Placed underneath or inside of the cake is a small plastic baby, said to represent Baby Jesus. Tradition says that the person who gets the piece of cake with the baby receives good luck for the coming year, AND they’re responsible for buying the cake the following year. Who knows why my sister and I would argue so much over that tiny baby I guess just because the other one wanted it so much!

Need I go on? Yes, I must! Our room was amazing! Brightly-colored eclectic decor filled the wide open breezy room with the loveliest balcony with a view of the Gulf of Mexico. BDK was especially fond of the exposed beams on the super high ceilings.

The first night we were there, we decided to stay in and enjoy room service (one of my favorite hotel perks ever!). Mahi Mahi sandwich and sweet potato fries, yes please!! Everything tastes better when eaten in these lovely surroundings:

The next morning we decided to walk around Key West, and then head to the pool. Yes, this is really what their pool looks like!

With the central location of the resort, we were able to walk down to the Southernmost point, and see all the adorable little shops on Duval Street on the way there. We even spotted the Ernest Hemingway House!

Personal photo

We grabbed a bite to eat on our way back to the resort, then headed for the pool, only to realize that I had left my swim suit at home! Gah!

We were more than happy to skip some pool time, though, to have a treatment at the adorable Spa Terre! Again, we were greeted by the friendliest hostess and escorted back to a couple’s room. BDK thoroughly enjoyed his “sports massage,” while I chose something totally different, the Volcanic Earth Clay Ritual. It was so cool! They paint on clay that is used to detoxify your skin, and then after washing that off, the therapist does a traditional Balinese massage. I’m feeling more relaxed just writing about it!

After our treatments, we headed back to our room to get gussied up for dinner. We headed down to Hot Tin Roof where we were seated on the gorgeous balcony. Our waiter was the loveliest man, and the chef even sent out a few yummy samples for us to try before we made our selections. We chose a delicious meal for two with steak, prawn, and the most divine mac and cheese with crab meat. We topped off our meal with – of course – key lime pie! You know, when in Rome, y’all!

If you’re looking for a honeymoon destination with relaxation by day, and fun parties by night, the Florida Keys are the place! And Ocean Key Resort & Spa definitely tops my list of resorts in the Keys. Their warm and welcoming employees and casually luxurious atmosphere make for the perfect combination! Clearly, we were happy to be there:

Personal photo

To read a bit more about our experience, be sure to head over to their Honey List profile!

All photos are courtesy of Ocean Key Resort & Spa except where marked. A special thank you to the team at Ocean for being so welcoming and hosting BDK and me!

P.S. Brides, did you have a fabulous honeymoon? Email me and let me know! Properties, want to get involved? Shoot me an email, and let’s chat!

I know that Valentine’s Day gets a bad rap, as far as holidays go. I have friends who are violently against Cupid and his plethora of love arrows and conversation candy. “It’s a holiday invented by the card stores to make money!” they say. And I get that. But it’s a holiday that revolves around chocolate and jewelry. It just goes against my being to reject those kinds of themes. Diamonds and chocolates are the way to my heart. But diamonds hidden INSIDE chocolates are pretty much the way to my soul.

I’m shallow. I can’t help it.

As much as I love the candy, gifts, and general lovey-dovey-ness that comes with Valentine’s Day, I am actually a fan of the holiday for more than just those reasons. I think love gets a bad rap, especially in marriage these days, and so any holiday that stops and says, “Hey! Love is important, darn it!” is going to be fine by me.

I remember when Chris and I got married, we were told by so many people, “It takes more than love to make a marriage!” And, foolishly, we thought they were fools. We loved each other. We had each other. We could take on anything else. I’ve learned over the years that love don’t pay no power bill. And love don’t clean up no sick baby in the middle of the night. And love certainly don’t exempt a husband from a good butt whoopin’ when he forgets to call and say he’s going to be working late on your anniversary.

Turns out, there’s a lot of stuff that love won’t do in a marriage.

But there are a lot of things that love does do in a marriage. In my marriage, love is how we forgive. It’s the reason that this morning, after a blow up with my love muffin as I left for work, I couldn’t even get out of the neighborhood before I called him on my cell to tell him I was sorry. And love was the reason he said, “Me, too.”

In my marriage, love is how we learn patience. The first week that we brought our sweet, perfect son home from the hospital, we were giddy with excitement. But by 3:00am on the third day, I remember standing next to Chris at the crib, both of us just about in tears from exhaustion and frustration, and every fiber of my being wanted to turn and whack him in the knees with a hairbrush. HOW COULD HE HAVE JUST TURNED THE LIGHT ON IN THE HALLWAY?!?!? DIDN’T HE KNOW THAT WOULD WAKE THE BABY?!?!?! And yet, I let him live. Because when you love someone, you’re patient as they learn things. Like how to change diapers in the middle of the night without turning a light on.

In my marriage, love is how we make decisions. Love is that binding force that draws every decision we make back to our family. Should I take that job? Should we make that big move? Should I take a half day at work so that I can attend my two-year-old son’s Valentine’s Day party at his daycare? Love is at the center of all of those things. Because we love each other and we love the family that we have made together, everything else is done within the context of that love.

In my marriage, love is even how we fight. Isn’t that weird? It’s true, though. Love is what makes us so darn frustrated with each other sometimes. It would be so much easier to be married to Chris if I wasn’t in love with him. But that silly love thing means that I simply can’t live without him. And sometimes, that’s so inconvenient! I wish it didn’t make me mad when he worked late, or when we haven’t had a date night in a while, or when the weekend classes for my teaching certificate take up all my time. I wish we didn’t fight about those things, but we do. And when the dust settles, we find that at the very base of those little fights is the fact that we just love each other so much that we get irritated when other things get in the way.

No, love don’t pay no bills. And, yes, it takes more than love to make a marriage work. But at the root of everything that exists in a marriage, there is love. So, I celebrate Valentine’s Day. I buy the cards and eat the candy and make those slice-and-bake cookies with the little red hearts in the center. I’m a sucker for it all because I believe that there should be a day that makes us stop and say, “I love you.” Because as important as everything else is in marriage, love is how it all started and how we keep it going.

(A note to my husband: While love is important, so is that beautiful necklace I showed you last weekend at the jewelry store…)

Isn’t Katie awesome?! Check out her past columns for Southern Weddings:
Change is the Name of the (Newlywed) Game
My Wedding Registry Changed My Life
Working it Out With the In-Laws
Managing Your Money
Come on Baby, Light My Fire
On Moving

All photos by one of the most romantic photographers we know, Elizabeth Messina

P.S. Congratulations to Katie for being nominated for the 2012 Bloggies awards! This is a huge honor, so be sure to give her some love and vote for her here!

Credit: Austin Gros via Green Wedding Shoes

Historically, Mardi Gras masks allowed people to mix without regard for race, gender, or economic status. Krewe members (those who put on the Mardi Gras parades) wore masks on the floats to hide their identities. These masks wore also originally worn on stage in theaters to convey exaggerated emotions (hence why some are slightly frightening!).

Credits: Masked couple photo by A Bryan Photo; colorful masks photo by Rachel Thurston; sparkly mask photo by Amelia Lyon via 100 Layer Cake;

Mardi Gras masks are traditionally purple, green and gold, and often are decorated with feathers, jewels and glitter. Even the colors have meaning: purple symbolizes justice, green, faith, and gold, power.

Credits: Feather shoes photo by Crystal George Studios via Rock n Roll Bride; purple mask and beads photos by Belathee Photography via Green Wedding Shoes

Tossing beads is a tradition born in the 1920s when the Rex Krewe parade threw inexpensive handmade glass necklaces to bystanders. Nowadays, krewe members seek out innovative trinkets to toss to the crowds, such as candy, frisbees, plastic cups, and even doubloons all marked with the specific parade’s name and logo. But believe me, nothing flies as far as some good ol’ Mardi Gras beads!

Credits: Mask and shoes photo by Crystal George Studios; black mask photo by Belathee; beads and cake photos by Crystal George Studios; mask menu photos by Colson Griffith via Brenda’s Wedding Blog

Now the fleur-de-lis doesn’t have much to do with Mardi Gras specifically, but how could be do a NOLA post without including the official symbol of the state of Louisiana? I love that following Hurricane Katrina, the fleur-de-lis has been widely used in New Orleans as a symbol of grassroots support for New Orleans’ recovery. Now that is what the South is about!

Credits: Docuvitae via Style Me Pretty and Austin Gros

Carriages (or buggies as we Southerners call them!) and rickshaws are great for transportation on those fabulous (and bumpy) cobblestone streets of the French Quarter! I’m kind of crushing hard on this buggy covered with feathers – so regal!

Credits: Mardi Gras pedicab photo by Kate Byars via Every Last Detail, traditional carriage photo by A Bryan Photo, and pedicab photo by Rachel Thurston

Y’all! I literally squealed out loud when we received these images of the second line! The “second line” is a tradition for brass band parades. It’s made up of those who follow the band just to enjoy the music, and traditionally twirl a parasol or handkerchief in the air. This “dance” is called “second lining.” How much fun does that sound?! The second line also has routes in jazz funerals, where the jazz band plays and parades to honor the life of the deceased, and friends and family follow the band dancing or walking to add to the spirit of the procession.

Credits: Dancing couple photo by Docuvitae via Style Me Pretty, couple with umbrellas by Rachel Thurston, couple with balloons by Austin Gros via Green Wedding Shoes, band and hanky waving photos by Docuvitae, umbrella and sign photos by A Bryan Photo

So y’all, who’s up for a road trip to NOLA? After this post, I am SO in!

Have you been to Mardi Gras? What’s your favorite Mardi Gras tradition?

Benne wafer photo by She Wears Many Hats; benne wafer favor photo by Veil and Bow via Style Me Pretty

I can, however, give you a little taste (pun-intended) of what my research found! Benne wafers are unique to the Lowcountry (the region located along South Carolina’s coast), and have been around since the Colonial era. The benne (the Bantu word for sesame) wafer is a thin cookie, made of toasted sesame, and has a almond-y or peanut buttery flavor. The original recipe was brought over from East Africa in the 17th century, and wafers are still made by hand today. Not local to Charleston but still looking to get your hands on this great Southern treat? Try Olde Colony Bakery, Market Street Munchies, or Byrd Cookie Company.

An additional detail for brides? According to Bantu folklore, eating the benne wafer is said to bring good luck; I think the luck alone is a perfect reason to serve this yummy treat at a wedding! (Well that, and its fabulous Southern history!) These sweet little cookies would also be perfect as a wedding favor or tucked into a welcome bag.

Looking to try your hand at benne wafers? Discover South Carolina has the recipe for traditional preparation of this delicacy for y’all!

Have you tried benne wafers? How do they rank among fabulous Southern treats, in your opinion?

P.S. Is this making you hungry? Check out our first feature in this series – grits!

I pretty much fell in love right then and there! The rustic country details mixed with the warm wood and crackling fireplace made my heart happy. When we visited, the lobby was even complete with a gorgeous (and tall) fully-decorated Christmas tree and hot apple cider. Can I just mention how much I love hot apple cider? Yummy! The whole effect was so welcoming, and full of warm Southern hospitality.

After checking into our room, we headed to dinner at The Piedmont. BDK was thoroughly pleased with his peach-infused chicken and scalloped sweet potatoes, while I enjoyed my spinach ravioli. We both loved gawking at the beautiful view of the mountains out the restaurant windows.

After I was completly relaxed at the spa, BDK and I bundled up and headed into the town for a little shopping at the adorable downtown area of Pine Mountain. Antiques and Christmas shops galore – I was in heaven. BDK’s “favorite purchase award” definitely goes to the handmade sweet potato pie candle in a mason jar we scored half price!

One thing missing from this lovely trip was a dip in the fabulous pool! This just happened to be the view from our room, and the gorgeous outdoor scene just seemed to be taunting me the whole time! I’m thinking a summer trip is in order to make up for it.

Our visit to The Lodge & Spa at Callaway Gardens made for a fabulous winter getaway, and I would absolutely suggest it for a romantic and secluded honeymoon no matter the season. To read a bit more about our experience, be sure to hop over to The Lodge’s Honey List profile! One note for AT&T customers: be prepared to be without service! Just consider an extra incentive to relax and unplug :)

All photos are courtesy of The Lodge & Spa at Callaway Gardens. A special thank you to the team at The Lodge for hosting BDK and I – we had a blast!

P.S. Take a trip over to The Honey List to get the scoop on even more lovely properties!
P.P.S. Brides, did you have a fabulous honeymoon? Email me and let me know! Properties, want to get involved? Shoot me an email, and let’s chat!

From top to bottom we have Brittany R., Jacqueline P., and Kati (all personal photos).

Here we’ve got Katie M. (two views) and Katie S. (all personal photos).

Next we’ve got Charis, Megan W., Rachel C., and Sidney (all personal photos).

These adorable faces are Ami, Madi R., Abby S., Molly, and Charis (all personal photos).

Seriously, y’all! These images make our hearts so happy! Thank you for sharing your big moments with us we are so thrilled to be a part of something so special!

Engaged? I want to hear from you! Send me an email with the subject “I’m engaged!” and a photo of you and your handsome beau after he asked you those famous four words!

Y’all know I love engagements, so when I was tasked to send out a call for all our lovely readers who had just gotten engaged to email me, I was ecstatic! Let me tell you, y’all did not disappoint! As a matter of fact, my email blew up! I loved seeing all y’all’s beautiful faces completely in love and smiling from ear to ear. I also love seeing your bling that part was SO much fun! Without further ado, on behalf of all of us here at Southern Weddings, please join me in congratulating (and sending huge hugs) to our lovely readers below whose handsome beaus just popped that life changing question!

Clockwise from top left we have Jamie M., Christian R., Christen C., and Katie W. (all personal photos).

Here we have Elizabeth F., Carlie S., Chelsea J., and Bonnie (again, all personal photos).

Here’s Patty, Kelly S., Taylor, Nealy, and Victoria (all personal photos).

Meet Trinka, Megan, Stephanie, Lauren L., and Lauren D. (all personal photos).

Here’s Jessica C., Hannah, Lauren C., Brooke B., and Lindsay H. (all personal photos).

Last but certainly not least we have Amanda R., Katie E., Samantha, Jacqueline, Whitney L. (photo by Stephanie Fay), and Rachel W. (all personal photos except Whitney’s photo, which is by Stephanie Fay).

And in the name of sharing, this photo was taken just minutes after my now-husband BDK proposed! Please pardon the horrible hair (we just left a baseball game), and that my smile that is nearing Joker status!

Crystal Coast from Emily Ayer on Vimeo.

Emily says she doesn’t have a just-post-proposal photo, but she did offer up the engagement video she and John put together. Okay, I adore Miss Emily Ayer, but this video gives me a toothache! It is just SO sweet!

Did you get engaged? I want to hear from you, too! Send me an email with the subject “I’m engaged!” and a photo of you and your honey just after he popped the big Q! You never know, you might see your face pop up on our blog!

And be sure to come back later! We received so many emails that we had to break this party into two posts! (YAY!)

Emily says I have to be nice to the Gators when I write this post, but y’all don’t know how hard that is! (Just kidding… but not!) My hubs actually thinks I should have declined to write this post (yes, we are THAT big of Bama fans!). I, on the other hand, am happy to write it Florida is at least in the SEC! Clearly college football love (and allegiances!) run deep in the South!

Also, today’s handsome groom-to-be is a professional football player, so how could I turn down writing a post about a fellow pro athlete’s wife? After all, it’s not an easy life, and we have to stick together!

Oh, and can I please just talk about how stinkin’ adorable these two are?! When their photographer, Anna Kirby, suggested Ali and Eric take their engagement photos at The Swamp (Ben Hill Griffin Stadium) they literally jumped at the idea! Ali says their engagement pictures “reflect our shared love of our family traditions, our university, and football.” Putting aside our allegiances, this lovely bride is a girl after my own heart! (AND, I want her cowboy boots!)

What’s your favorite college football team? Would you take or did you do your e-session (or your whole wedding) at your alma mater? How will you be incorporating your team into your big day?

P.S. Roll Tide, y’all! This is just one of the ways we incorporated college football into our wedding day!

P.S.S. Love e-sessions? Be sure to tune into our Facebook every Friday where we feature exclusive engagement sessions each week!

A. Modcloth Blossoms and Buttercream Dress ($48), B. Allure “1279″ ($198), C. Old Navy Belted Cap-Sleeve Dress ($25) D. Calvin Klein One Shoulder Jersey Sheath Dress ($98), E. Belted Lace Dress by Rare ($90), F. Jenny Yoo “Nikki” ($325). G. Nordstrom “Muse” ($128), H. 6 Shore Road “Panama” ($204), I. Modcloth “Sunshine on my mind” ($49.99), J. Modcloth “Lemon Armour” ($419.99), K. Rebecca Taylor “Stunning Strapless” ($335), L. BHLDN Bowknot Dress ($160), M. Donna Morgan Belted Chiffon ($99), and N. Asymmetrical Ruffle by Rare ($90).

What color will your girls be wearing down the aisle? Would you/have you chosen a bright pop of color for them to sport?

If you haven’t decided yet, be sure to check out our other Southern Style posts:
Mixed Bridesmaids’ Dresses
Cardigans and Tights

Still stuck? Check out our yellow board on Pinterest!