Blog Archives

Charleston Wedding Venues for Your Ceremony and Reception

Although we work all over the Charleston area, we wanted to share some of our favorite Charleston wedding venues that we love working at and of course that couples love just as much.

Wild Dunes Resort

What we love:

There is so much to do at the resort, you and your guests wouldn’t need to ever leave. This resort has so much versatility in regards to their indoor and outdoor spaces for both large and small groups. One of our favorite hidden locations here is the

What’s Included:

Tables, Chairs, Linens, Food, Cake and Bar.

Charleston Harbor Resort

What we love:

This venue is a Resort Hotel and provides a fun experience for your guests. There are many indoor and outdoor venue options here as well, along with gorgeous views.

What’s Included:

Tables, Chairs, Linens, Arbor, Cutlery, Food & Bar.

Founders Hall

What we love:

This venue has so much character and many different spaces, both outdoor and inside. It reminds us of a Frank Lloyd Wright style.

What’s Included:

Chairs, Tables, Dressing Suite

Francis Marion Hotel

What we love:

This hotel has all of the elegance and Southern Charm. It boasts 4 indoor spaces and overlooks Marion Square Park.

What’s Included:

Chairs, Tables, Cutlery, Linens, Food and Bar.

Regatta Inn

What we love:

This is a luxurious B&B with the most striking sunsets in Charleston. Located in the famous Folly Beach town, this venue sits back secluded from all of the hustle and bustle. You are able to rent out the entire inn for you and your family, which makes this space completely private and all yours!

What’s Included:

While nothing comes with the venue, it does provide a blank slate to have the wedding of your dreams.

The Island House

What we love:

Situated on the Stono River on Johns Island, this venue boasts a stunning sunset and free parking for all of your guests. We love that it also already has a permanent tent which will save you a few thousand.

What’s Included:

Tables, Chairs, Arbor and Lighting (additional fees), Tent w/lighting, Wedding Party Suites

The Pavilion at Pepper Plantation

What we love:

This venue is off the beaten path and is perfect for the county chic themes and is on a lake. Located in a quite equestrian neighborhood, you are likely to see horses trotting by.

What’s Included:

The space includes a lakeside gazebo, indoor and outdoor wood burning fire places, porches, and onsite parking. There is a dressing suite available for an additional fee.

The Planters Inn

What we love:

Tucked away on the main strip is a gorgeous courtyard, along with indoor ball rooms. While this space is for a more intimate crowd, we love the ambiance and romance of the venue, not to mention the superb service.

What’s Included:

Tables, Chairs, Food, Cake and Bar.

The Wickliffe House

What we love:

What’s not to love about an old mansion in downtown Charleston. This venues offer both indoor and outdoor space.

What’s Included:

Tables, Chairs, Linens, Food and Bar.

Citadel Beach Club

What we love:

We love venues that have options for your ceremony and this one certainly does including out on the beach, on the lush yard facing the ocean, or inside.

What’s Included:

Tables, Chairs, Wedding Suite

September1320192COMMENTS

James Crowl

Charleston Wedding Locations, Planning, Wedding Ceremony, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Planning, Wedding Time line

Why Day-of Coordination Doesn’t Really Exist

Lately, we have been getting lots of inquiries asking for just “Day-of” services. Day-of Coordination doesn’t really exist. Month-of Coordination is the service that is required.

Many couples believe that they can plan their own wedding and simply have a coordinator show up on the day of the wedding and jump in. Then came the newer planners, who decided to offer this service at a lower price to build a portfolio. Long ago, we admit we did the same thing, but not for long as we realized that this simply doesn’t work. Keep reading and I will explain.

Experienced Wedding Planner

Experienced Wedding Planners have been in business for years and are professionals at identifying every potential issue that can arise at your wedding. They are able to manage all vendors prior to and on your wedding day. They are also very resourceful, problem solvers, and calm under stressful situations. They built relationships with many of the vendors in town, along with venues. Most importantly, they are licensed and insured.

Inexperienced Wedding Planner

They are most likely starting up their business and may only have a few weddings under their belt. Knowledge of contracts and timelines is lacking along with insurance and being licensed.

In order for a Wedding Planner to be successful at your event, the following should be considered:

Your Planner needs to know who all of your vendors are and have read the contracts. They also need to understand each of their duties, what exactly they were contracted for, setup times and start times. I can’t tell you how many things we catch just by reading the contracts.
The Planner should know all of the aspects of the venue. This is a MUST! It is mandatory that the planner have a walk through with the venue manager prior to the wedding to finalize the floor plan, load in and out location, electrical outlets, extra equipment, etc.
Planners also are in charge of drafting a timeline for your wedding day. This is distributed to all of your vendors to follow, but may also need to be adjusted in real time if problems arise.
What about rehearsal? Your Wedding Planner will direct your rehearsal. Do not expect the venue manager to do this unless they are specifically contracted to do so.
And then there are your wedding decorations. The favors, welcome table, cake serving set, escort cards, etc. Your Wedding Planner will obtain these items from you ahead of time so that they can review and inform you if there is anything missing.

Costs of a Wedding Coordinator

So the most popular question asked is, why does it cost so much? Let me break it down.

Contracting Vendors and Obtaining Contracts	3 Hours
Review of Contracts	3-4 Hours
Venue Walk Through	2 Hours
Timeline Creation	3-4 Hours
Rehearsal	1 Hour (usually everyone is late so 2 hours realistically)
Floor Plan Creation	1-2 Hours
Other Pre Planning	1-2 Hours
Wedding Day	10-12 Hours
Total Hours	24-31 Hours

Note that this doesn’t include business expenses such as assistants, insurance, licenses, and other overhead costs. So next time you ask a Wedding Planner to drop their pricing, you are asking them to work for an average of $4 an hour. Providing Month-of Services allows us to provide the correct level of service and professionalism that allows you to have the best day of your life.

February122019NOCOMMENTS

James Crowl

Wedding Coordination, Wedding Planning, wedding planning

10 Things you Need to Know about Wedding Contracts.

You are floating on air that your engaged, now comes the stress… choosing a date, a location, and your vendors. Of course, we recommend hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to help you through this. However, even with your wedding planner/coordinator, you will need a contract from them as well.

Here is what you need to look for on your contracts.

1 – If a wedding vendor does not have a contract. They are not a legitimate wedding vendor as you should have a contract from each of your vendors.

2 – Verify your wedding information. Is your name spelled correctly? Is the location, time and date correct. I know it sounds like a simple thing, but there was a case where the contract had a different date than the bride had wanted. We were able to catch it in time, and make adjustments.

3 – What services is the vendor providing? It should be spelled out. For example, is the rehearsal included? Or if a wedding photographer, engagement photos? If cake or caterer, is a tasting included? Make sure you are receiving the services you want.

4 – Is the deposit refundable? Industry standard is that the deposit is non-refundable. For clarity in relation to planners/coordinators, a full refund is not possible because the majority of the Wedding Services (e.g., planning, timelines, bookings and visitations with third-party vendors, etc.) will be performed prior to the wedding date and the company must be compensated for Services that are rendered prior to the cancellation.

5 – What is the cancellation policy? If you need to cancel or postpone your wedding, what are your options with this vendor.

6 – Is there an “act of nature” clause? What are your options in the event of a hurricane or other act of nature? If an outdoor wedding, what are your options if it rains?

7 – What if a vendor cancels? Life happens, if the vendor suddenly has a death in the family the day before your wedding, what is the plan? We get a least 1 call a month asking for last minute officiant or coordination due to the vendor backing out at last minute due to life situations.

8 – How is your balance treated? When is it due? Can you pay it off early? What happens if your late in paying?

9 – Are there time limits? Are there exact times on the contract, such as a photographer saying their service is 2 hours, 5-7 pm. What if the wedding starts late?

10 – Do you understand everything in the contract? If not, ask the vendor for clarification! The best method of this is email so you have a hard copy of the answers that you can file with the contract.

Wedding vendors are not out to trick you. Their contract should be set up to protect both you and them for the services you are needing. By making sure you understand the answers to these questions for each vendor, it will prevent stress and worry later. As with any contract, you should read all of it before signing.

December1020181COMMENTS

James Crowl

Charleston Destination Wedding, Planning, Wedding Ceremony, Wedding Coordination, Wedding Planning

Achieve Your Dream Wedding with a Wedding Planner

How Wedding Planners Can Help You Achieve Your Dream Wedding

Planning a wedding can be stressful, even overwhelming at times. After all, this will likely be the largest event you’ve ever hosted in your life, and most of us have little to no experience in the matter. If only there was someone out there… anyone that could help. Oh wait, that’s what wedding planners are for! But aren’t wedding planners only for movie stars? Not quite. In fact, a wedding planner is really quite affordable in the grand scheme of things. If you find yourself ready to elope to escape planning stress, read on and see why a wedding planner is your perfect solution.

Planners can help make wedding planning stress-free

Weddings require a lot of research, phone calls, negotiations, and so on. When you have a wedding planner, much of this can be done for you. In many cases, it’s easier for vendors to communicate with a planner. Why? Because many are often reluctant to burden couples with last-minute details as the wedding fast approaches. A planner can work out these issues so you can focus on looking forward to and enjoying your big day.

Planners can help make your wedding dreams come true

Once a planner is aware of your wedding dreams, they have one mission: making it come true. That is, after all, what they’re being paid to do. Unlike the average couple who probably doesn’t have a background in wedding planning, most wedding planners take on more than one wedding per day or per weekend. Therefore, they’re able to leverage professional experience and vast pre-established networks to ensure your day goes exactly to your liking. It will take a huge load off your shoulders knowing there is someone out there willing to see your journey through from beginning to end.

Planners can help keep your budget in check

One of the main responsibilities of any planner is being able to do the most with whatever budget is given. Given their extensive experience, a planner knows how to make a dollar stretch and when a vendor’s quote is too high. They’ll also be able to recommend which vendors and services align perfectly with your preferences, making sure you get the best for your money. If you have a lot of time until the big day, consider utilizing mobile banking apps that can expedite your savings each month before the wedding. You’ll be able to explore more possibilities and allow your planner more creative freedom with a larger budget.

Planners can help save your money

Many planners manage to get a vendor discount. Why? Because planners give vendors repeat business. Vendors will want to make sure their services are meeting or exceeding expectations so that they can make sure they’re contacted again. When multiple vendors are giving your planner a better rate, it can amount to huge savings overall!

August72018NOCOMMENTS

James Crowl

Beach Weddings, Charleston Destination Wedding, Wedding Ceremony, wedding planning, Wedding Planning

A Modern Twist on Wedding Traditions

In the 1800’s, wedding ceremonies were mainly conducted in churches followed by a small reception at the bride’s parents home. In the early 1900’s, sleeveless dresses would have been considered inappropriate, but anything goes today. Every decade wedding traditions tend to evolve and customization is the key for couples today. This is getting harder with todays busy lifestyle. We have listed a few ways to shop for your wedding online.

The Bling

Ohhh… the ring shopping! While this is an exciting time for the ladies (I mean you get to go ring shopping, what is there not to like), you should also consider online shopping too! Cutting out the middle man, you can get fantastic quality at phenomenal prices. Be sure to check out Blue Nile Wedding Ring Options.

Suit and Tux Rentals

Did you know you don’t even have to leave your home to rent your wedding attire? Yes, you heard me right. This is a great way to ensure the bridal party has that great look, even when they live all across the country. Be sure to check out Generation Tux and contact us for your discount code.

Centerpieces and Décor

I’ll bet the first place you look to get wedding décor idea’s is Pinterest. Well, if you haven’t seen the show “Nailed It”, you may want to consider watching! While many of the decorations look wonderful, implementing them can be a challenge. In addition, after your wedding, what do you do with your decorations? Many try to sell them, but that too can be a challenge, not to mention all of the time that went into buying the supplies and making the decorations. We recommend renting your décor centerpieces or purchasing floral for your big day. Don’t know what to do with all of the floral after? Be thoughtful and ask your wedding planner to donate it to a local retirement/nursing home.

Let us help you take care of your wedding for you. Be sure to check out our Charleston Wedding Packages that can be customized to fit all of your needs.

February142018NOCOMMENTS

James Crowl

Beach Weddings, Charleston Destination Wedding, Charleston Wedding Locations, Wedding Ceremony

Charleston’s Beautiful Wedding Locations without Breaking the Bank

The most common question asked is, “Where can I have my wedding ceremony?” There are literally hundreds of Charleston wedding locations within the area, but listed below are some that will not break the bank. Whether it is a beach wedding or a Charleston park wedding, we have wedding packages to fit your needs.

Beach Wedding Locations:

Combine both the Historic Charm of Charleston and its gorgeous coast lines and there you have it, elegant beauty. The two beaches that we recommend include Isle of Palms and Folly Beach.
Beach Information: Alcohol is not permitted on all beaches, free and paid parking is available
Recommended Packages: Romantic Elopement, Intimate, or Beach Package

Charleston Wedding Locations:

White Point Gardens/AKA Battery Park:

Located on the waterfront with Live Oaks, gorgeous Charleston Mansions and panoramic views.
Park Information: no restrooms, free street parking, 1 hour permit fees for the gazebo, gazebo guest count around 25
Recommended Packages: Romantic Elopement, Intimate, or Charleston

Waterfront Park:

Gorgeous views of Charleston Harbor, Gardens, and Fountains, including the iconic Pineapple Fountain.
Park Information: restrooms nearby, 2 parking garages nearby, No chairs or decorations allowed
Recommended Packages: Romantic Elopement, Intimate, or Charleston

Washington Square:

Lots of charm with brick paths and surrounded by buildings, also offers gorgeous oak trees to hide from the sun.
Park Information: no restrooms (1 block away), metered street parking and/or a parking garage
Recommended Packages: Romantic Elopement, Intimate, or Charleston, Charming

Hampton Park:

This local park boasts gorgeous floral displays, a gazebo, fountains, as well as large live oaks. Think of this as the Central Park of Charleston.
Park Information: restrooms on-site, free parking
Recommended Packages: Romantic Elopement, Intimate, or Charleston, Charming

Angel Oak Tree:

This park hosts the largest southern live oak tree east of the Mississippi.
Park Information: 25 Guest Maximum. No Decorations or Chairs, Free Parking, Restrooms on-site
Recommended Packages: Romantic Elopement or Intimate

Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park and Pier:

This park is situated right next to the Ravenel Bridge on the Cooper River and is home to fountains, green space, and a pier.
Park Information: 15 Guest Maximum. No Decorations or Chairs, Free Parking, Restrooms On-site
Recommended Packages: Romantic Elopement or Intimate

Sunrise Park/AKA Melton Peter Demetre Park:

Situated on water with a little beach, this park has gorgeous views of the Ravenel Bridge and downtown.
Park Information: 25 Guest Maximum. No Decorations or Chairs, Free Parking, Restrooms On-site
Recommended Packages: Romantic Elopement or Intimate

February12017NOCOMMENTS

James Crowl

Wedding Ceremony, wedding planning

Will Rain Ruin Your Wedding Day?

You have taken the time to plan a beautiful outdoor ceremony, whether in a park, plantation, courtyard, or the beach…it is your vision, to be married under a clear blue sky with a couple puffs of friendly white clouds…

Over 90% of the time this happens!! However, I always recommend having a Plan B, in case of bad weather!! This Spring, we have skirted a couple of storms, we had to move a wedding from a 4pm time to a 1pm time to avoid the storms, and we had rain at the end of one wedding. We are as flexible as possible with the weather.

We watch the weather very closely, and 1 week prior to your ceremony, we discuss the weather, and if we need a potential Plan B. If the weather is questionable, 2 days prior to the wedding, we will again discuss the options as well as a deadline for when the decision needs to be made by.

So what do we do if it rains?

First thing we check is when is the rain. The general weather may say 60% chance of rain, but if that is in the morning and you have an afternoon wedding, no problem! Next we check the where. It could be pouring in Mount Pleasant, and not a drop in Charleston, or Folly Beach. How flexible are we with timing? If it is an elopement it is easier to say afternoon storms, so let’s do the wedding at 2pm instead of 6pm. If we have 30 guests, it is harder to change time.In most locations, there is a covered area close by. We also check with where the reception is being held to see if we can use the space, or if there is an area at your accommodations.

Often we hear from brides, “we don’t care if it’s raining, we are going ahead with the ceremony!”

We understand that thinking, however, if it is thunder and lightning, for safety, Reynolds Treasures and any vendor contracted under Reynolds Treasures will not be out in the weather. If it is a soft rain, the officiant can still perform the ceremony, but most photographers and musicians will not allow their equipment in the damaging weather. Each vendor has the right to make a judgement call with their equipment or instruments.

We don’t want to scare you away from your dream outdoor wedding! We just want you to have a plan just incase!!! We perform over 250 weddings a year, and rain may affect 10% of the weddings, and we need to make changes to about 1%, while the others the storms dissipate. As always Reynolds Treasures will always work with you and help you along the way to avoid any last minute worries!!

January192017NOCOMMENTS

James Crowl

Wedding Ceremony

Can you include your dog in the wedding?

Absolutely!!! However there are some things to consider!

Here are some tips from renowned dog trainer Victoria Stilwell. Victoria, best known for her role as the star of Animal Planet’s hit TV series It’s Me or the Dog, is not only CEO of Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Training but also a best-selling book author.

1. Ask if your dog has what it takes. Weddings can be stressful and overwhelming for a dog that does not adapt well to new environments or is uncomfortable around strangers. Sociable dogs that are outgoing and friendly often cope better with the extra attention they are likely to receive. If your dog is shy and uncomfortable around people, leave him at home where he is safe and secure.

2. Decide what part of the ceremony you would like your dog(s) to attend. Involve your dog in the ceremony but not the reception, as receptions tend to be overwhelming — especially those with an extensive guest list and loud music.

3. Check first to make sure that the venues you choose for your wedding allow dogs. Many have a strict no pet policy.

4. Make sure that you tell your bridesmaids or groomsmen of your intentions before the day. Many people are allergic to dogs, so giving them ample warning will help them prepare if they suffer from allergies.

5. What role is your dog going to play at your wedding? Whether she is the ring bearer or the hound of honor, start preparing early for the tasks she is going to do during the ceremony.

6. Designate a handler that will be with your dog at all times throughout the ceremony. This will relieve any pressure you might feel to make sure that your dog behaves properly.

7. Rehearse as much as you can with your dog before the big day and leave ample time to practice during the actual rehearsal so that your dog (and his or her handler) knows exactly what to do and when to do it.

8. Take a trip to the grooming parlor or wash and groom your dog at home so that he looks and smells good on the big day.

9. Ensure that your dog is well-controlled around your guests. A jumping dog will not be appreciated. If your dog has a tendency to jump up, take time well before the day to teach him an alternative behavior, such as greeting a person by sitting and giving his paw rather than jumping up. If his excitement level is too high, he might find it hard to control his impulses — in which case, keep him leashed and controlled at all times.

10. Do not forget to include your dog in some wedding pictures. Need ideas? Enjoy these fab photos of couples’ adorable pets all decked out on the big day.

Blog Archives

Charleston Wedding Venues for Your Ceremony and Reception

Why Day-of Coordination Doesn’t Really Exist

Experienced Wedding Planner

Inexperienced Wedding Planner

Costs of a Wedding Coordinator

Here is what you need to look for on your contracts.

How Wedding Planners Can Help You Achieve Your Dream Wedding

Planners can help make wedding planning stress-free

Planners can help make your wedding dreams come true

Planners can help keep your budget in check

Planners can help save your money

A Modern Twist on Wedding Traditions

The Bling

Suit and Tux Rentals

Centerpieces and Décor

Beach Wedding Locations:

Charleston Wedding Locations:

Waterfront Park:

Washington Square:

Hampton Park:

Angel Oak Tree:

Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park and Pier:

Sunrise Park/AKA Melton Peter Demetre Park:

So what do we do if it rains?

Often we hear from brides, “we don’t care if it’s raining, we are going ahead with the ceremony!”

Absolutely!!! However there are some things to consider!

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