There is something so romantic about cliffside weddings — windswept vistas and stunning views are definitely unforgettable backdrops. Amanda and Pete hosted their wedding ceremony and reception on the cliffs around Lake Keeowee in South Carolina. They made sure their hospitality was cozy at this fall wedding, but the location, decor and even fireworks made sure the drama didn’t stop all night long. Make sure you check out what is surely one of my favorite drama-filled first look images, as well!
Amanda + Pete | November 2, 2013 | Landrum, South Carolina | Dress Listing: Monique Lhuillier, Legend
The Ceremony
The interior of the Glassy Chapel is so unbelievably gorgeous with intricate woodwork and stone inside and panoramic views of the valley outside, so we did not want to take away from it with over the top florals or décor. Instead, we opted for a natural wood carved chuppah with delicate vines and flowers that softened the mood naturally. We put a piece of delicate fabric over the chuppah to complete it. One of the best parts is that we were able to keep the chuppah in the backyard of my parents’ lake house so we can enjoy it every time we visit!
One of the most unique parts of our ceremony was actually a pre-ceremony gathering where guests were served popcorn in pretty paper cones along with hot cider and teas while they enjoyed listening to the Café String Quartet. The gathering was held in a patio adjacent to the chapel on top of the mountain which allowed for more great views.
The Reception
The reception was backdropped by the lake, so as with the chapel, we wanted to keep our motif rustic, yet chic and elegant. We created a long feasting table at the center of the tent for our parents and bridal parties and wanted all florals to be low so we could easily see and speak to our guests throughout dinner. The table boasted a jute runner with antique gold lace fabric on top and a mix of vintage candles with small flower details nesting amongst them. We requested a low lush runner of flowers, incorporating ivory, white and small touches of the softest antique peach tones to give this table a bit of drama. The rest of the tables were a mix of wood (both round and farm) and mimicked the feasting table with jute runners and a mix of vintage vases and candlesticks.
All flowers were monochromatic in ivory and white with delicate touches of grey greens and soft pinks/peach to add dimension. Table numbers were displayed in bold black font, printed on burlap wine bottle bags. Our chairs throughout were Bentwood and the tent boasted a modern black and white dancefloor as well as globe lighting inside and mini white twinkle lights lining the exterior.
We also had a few key features that allowed our guests to enjoy the outdoor lakeside experience, creating a lounge area with rattan benches and chairs where people could sit and have a drink overlooking the water. Next to the lounge area, we offered pashminas in neutral colors so women could wrap themselves as the sunset and we completed the space with heat lamps strategically placed around the perimeter of the tent and dance floor.
Amanda’s Dress Search
I had always envisioned myself in a trumpet/mermaid style gown, but was blown away when I saw the Monique Lhullier Legend gown. The sexy/feminine lace corset bodice juxtaposed against the dramatic feather-organza train was like nothing I had ever seen. My biggest fear was that I might not be able to find a dress that was special or different enough than my other friends who were married (I was a part of so many weddings last year!) and this dress immediately stood out.
How Amanda Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Gorgeous, Beautiful, Special
Why Amanda Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I realized it would be such a shame to leave such a beautiful garment in a box for years to come rather than letting someone else enjoy it at a much discounted price!
