“From the moment I read Kate’s description of her wedding I knew I wanted to be her wedding photographer. She described her vision as a rustic meets urban theme. Very natural featuring candles, lots of greens, white with pops of burnt orange, moss and twigs. In my mind, this was absolutely gorgeous and just my style. From our first meeting, I immediately felt a connection with Kate and Chris. They were so incredibly sweet, down-to-earth, funny and most importantly, in love. They held hands, told me about how they met, where they had their first date and how Chris proposed. It was the best meeting! After about an hour or so of talking, we left the coffee shop hugged and went our separate ways. Deep down I hoped and prayed that I would hear form them again. Later that evening I got the sweetest e-mail from Kate saying how much they loved me and wanted to book ASAP! I was over the moon excited. The week leading up to there wedding it POURED… a hurricane was hitting the coast which made for a windy, rainy wedding day. Most brides would be freaking out, but not Kate. She went out and got rain boots for her bridesmaids and made the best of the nasty weather. She and Chris were so excited to become husband and wife, I don’t think anything could have ruined their special day. Their wedding at Byron’s South End was the perfect venue for their rustic meets urban wedding theme. Kate’s vision came to life with the help of Elizabeth from Hall and Webb Event Design. Everything was absolutely gorgeous! Everyone celebrated late into the night dancing to the fabulous band, 5 on Sunday’s. I couldn’t be happier for these two. Kate + Chris I wish you both a lifetime filled with LOTS of love and happiness.” – Grace Hill Photography

What is your favorite wedding day memory?

My favorite memory is repeating our vows to each other. It was the one moment all day that we had only each other, it was a very emotional and deepening experience. That and when my dad gave me away he forgot to mention my mom. Everyone was laughing, except her of course!

What did you DIY for your wedding?

For our wedding, I DIY’d a wood palate and made a directional sign. I have a painting and art background so it was fun! I also gathered old family wedding portraits as a tribute to parents and grandparents whose marriages have lasted the test of time. Instead of a guest book, I took a mini Polaroid camera and had guests snap, tape and sign their messages in an album. We also had three local brews at our cocktail hour that I painted signs for. As a send off, I had stickers made “wishing you riches, from the new Kate and Chris Perret,” to place on lottery tickets, tied to glow sticks.

Something old, new, borrowed and blue?

My something old was the gold antique leaf pin I used in my hair, my something new was my necklace, earrings and wedding gift bracelet by Kendra Scott, my something borrowed was my Mother-in-Law’s late Mothers gold bracelet and lastly, my something blue was a piece of my childhood blue blanked pinned inside of my gown.

Any advice for brides currently in the planning process?

Focus on the big things….like getting married and big vendors. Small details like whether or not a hint of gold thread vs. silver in one of your linens will pick up more candle light does not matter. On the big day you’re going to have so much going on, so many people talking to you, so many attempts to eat, you won’t notice. Which brings me to eat! Do it before you even enter your reception. Also, find a great photographer to capture all those moments you’re going to miss :). Lastly, have open lines of communication with everyone! Buy a wedding planning book. Write thank you notes as you get gifts. Most of all have fun and find someone to help coordinate to take the stress off of you! -Kate, the bride

Event Credits

Photographer: Grace Hill Photography // Ceremony Venue: The Design Atrium at Byron's South End // Reception Venue: Byron's South End // Event Planner: Hall and Webb Event Design // Florist: The Place for Flowers // Catering: Best Impressions // Cake: Cake Expressions by Lisa // Invitations: Wedding Paper Diva's // Officiant: Ryan Cannon // Band: 5 on Sunday's // Transportation: Sunway Charter Trolley // Exit Transportation: Charlotte Pedicab // Engagement Ring: Diamonds Direct // Bride's Attire: J. Majors // Bride's Jewelry: Bannana Republic // Bride's Shoes: Hushpuppy // Bridesmaid's Attire: Dessy // Bridesmaid's Earrings: Stella and Dot // Bridesmaid's Bracelets: Nordstrom Rack // Hair and Make-up: Lovely By Lindsey // Groom's Attire: Calvin Klein // Groom's Shoes: Cole Haan // Groomsmen's Attire: Calvin Klein // Groomsmen's Shoes: Cole Haan // Ceremony Cards: Simple + Stunning Studio