Massive moss draped oaks, marshes, and a river with a getaway dock served as the backdrop of Tara and Matt’s big day in South Carolina.

The couple, who chose RiverOaks in Awendaw, South Carolina as their wedding venue, treated their guests to a fun-filled reception that included lawn games.

“It felt like a really fun spring party, rather than a stuffy scheduled event,” says Tara.

Thanks to Nathan and Mell from Love Toast and Richard Bell Photography for the beautiful photos.

Tara, 26 & Matt, 28

Awendaw, SC

Wedding Date: April 30, 2011

Number of Guests: 70

Wedding Ceremony Location: RiverOaks, Awendaw, SC

Wedding Reception Location: RiverOaks, Awendaw, SC

Why did you have an intimate wedding? 

We wanted to celebrate our wedding day with our closest family and friends. We weren’t looking for a big spectacle, but rather a great evening with the people we care about. We wanted to have time to see everyone that could make it, and really enjoy the evening in a casual, fun way.

What are some of the challenges that you faced planning an intimate wedding? 

The biggest challenge with a small wedding was getting family to understand they can’t invite everyone they can think of.

Was it difficult to pare down the guest list? 

A little bit. It was more difficult for our family.

Did you have any issues with the small guest list from friends and family? 

Sure. They had a vision in their minds and it was probably different than ours.

If so, how did you address them? 

We simply had to remind them that it was our celebration. We valued their opinion and feedback, but we had a plan and we saw it through.

What were the highlights of the ceremony? 

Our ceremony was short and simple. The highlight was when we were officially announced as husband and wife. Also, we chose to do a first glance before the ceremony, and that was very special.

What were the highlights of the reception? 

It felt like a really fun spring party rather than a stuffy scheduled event. We played yard games, laughed, and just had a great time.

What was the best thing about having an intimate wedding? 

It sets the tone of the event. We had time to actually talk to each and every guest rather than shuffle around from table to table.

What advice do you have for couples who are considering an intimate wedding? 

Don’t worry about traditions or what other people expect your wedding to be –make it your own. Remember, the whole point is to celebrate your marriage, so do that in the way that feels best to you. The day will go really fast, but you will  have strong memories of it all. Think about what you want those memories to look like.

Vendors:

Dress: Maggie Sottero

Shoes: Hot pink shoes by Butter

Wedding Invites & Programs: Natural Pair by Wedding Paper Divas

Wedding Venue: RiverOaks

Wedding Photographer: Nathan and Mell from http://lovetoastblog.com/ with Richard Bell Photography

Flowers & Day-of Planner: Marianne Caldwell of RiverOaks

Bakery: Ashley Bakery

Caterer: Hamby Catering

DJ: Other Brother Entertainment

Filed Under: Real Weddings, Rustic Weddings  |  2 Comments

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