WEDDINGS - Southern Soiree

Last weekend, my parents traveled to the Deep South, in particular Indianola, Mississippi for the wedding celebration of our close family friends’ son, Michael, and his beautiful bride, Katy. Planning your own Southern Soiree? Learn a thing or two about true southern hospitality and style from Michael & Katy’s enchanting occasion.

Below: The Johnson Residence in Greenwood, MS (Hilly’s house in the upcoming film The Help)
The Franklin Residence in Greenwood, MS (Skeeter’s house in the upcoming film The Help)
The luncheon in the backyard of the bride’s close family friends

While I was stuck in Lala land and could not attend, my mother painted a vivid picture of the festivities. She was most impressed by the refreshing sense of hospitality and warmth that defined the entire weekend. From the moment of their arrival, my parents felt genuinely and enthusiastically welcomed into the celebration.
A few of the many considerate touches:

• Thoughtful hotel goody bags with an adorable depiction of the couple heading from Mississippi to Texas (Michael & Katy are moving right next door to my sister’s new in-laws! Small world.)
• A delicious catfish fry at the historic BB King Museum hosted by the bride’s family friends
• A lovely lunch hosted in the lush backyard of the bride’s close friends
• Visitor guides with information on local sites such as the houses used in the upcoming film, The Help
• A wedding reception characterized by impeccable service

Described by my mother as “magical” and filled with “Southern charm”, the reception took place in the grandmother’s backyard, a block or so from the picturesque Episcopal Church where the ceremony took place. I love their combination of romantic, full floral arrangements, verdant topiaries, and fresh apples to create an exquisite, garden-esque atmosphere. The hanging lanterns, divine white tents, and dragonfly detailing further transform the space into a secret garden wonderland.

The elegant six-tiered cake was breathtaking, and the groom’s Texas-shaped carrot cake (his favorite) was surrounded by scrumptious chocolate treats for the chocoholics in attendance. My favorite, meaningful touch is that they covered the cake table with the tulle overlay from the wedding veil of Katy’s grandmother. What a beautifully subtle and sweet way to honor the bride’s family! A truly great wedding bears in mind the needs and preferences of the guests while honoring your tastes and traditions as a couple and as an extension of your two families. No question about it; this wedding was truly great!