Southerners are known for their charm, grace, and above all, their hospitality. Southerners love weddings, and have some lovely customs. Whether you are a dyed in the wool G.R.I.T. (Girls Raised in the South), or just adore the warmth of the region, you may want to include a dash of Southern style in your wedding.
Weddings in the South tend to be very traditional, and etiquette is extremely important. They are often very large affairs, with guest lists easily running to 350 or more. You Northern brides may be gasping at the thought of the cost of serving dinner to that many guests, but weddings this large are not always followed by a big reception. The custom was to emphasize the ceremony, and then have a brief reception in the church basement with cake and punch. Many brides still adhere to this custom, although there are also plenty of lavish wedding receptions in the South.
Since Southerners are revered for their hospitality, the food and drink served will be very important. There are many festive beverages associated with Southern living. Mint Juleps are a traditional drink, and as a bonus, they are always presented in those beautiful little silver cups. Non-alcoholic drinks can include Low Country lemonade, and the ubiquitous sweet tea. A great way to serve the iced tea and lemonade is in large clear glass jars. Float festive garnishes in each one, like lemon slices, berries, or sprigs of mint.
A great idea for your reception or rehearsal dinner would be to have a barbeque. Do it right, with a seasoned pitmaster slow-cooking over wood for meat that melts in your mouth. There are strong regional customs when it comes to barbeque - in some areas it has to be pork, but in Texas only beef will do. There is also the great debate - vinegar or tomato based sauce; it all depends where you live (fyi, eastern North Carolina is vinegar territory; you find more tomato based sauces as you move west.) Barbeque can get messy, so a cute idea would be to provide bibs customized with the bride's monogram and wedding date. For dessert, in addition to the wedding cake, serve Southern favorites like pecan pie.
The groom's cake is something frequently seen at Southern weddings. This custom has been spreading to the rest of the country, because it is a truly great idea. The groom's cake is designed in the shape to represent one of his hobbies, pastimes, or affiliations, such as the military or a fraternity. Usually a chocolate cake, the groom's cake will be very elaborately decorated, and it is a chance for the baker to show off her skill and creativity.
Flowers are the highlight of the décor for any wedding. A gorgeous flower like magnolia would be ideal for a Southern wedding. Potted azaleas would be a wonderful addition to a reception site, and they are available in the most marvelous shades of pink. Bouquets and centerpieces should be very pretty and feminine. Leave the avant garde arrangementsto New York City brides.
Because Southern weddings do tend to be traditional, the bride's wedding ensemble will usually reflect this aesthetic. Gowns with romantic details like lace are ideal for a Southern bride. Pearl bridal jewelry is the perfect finishing touch for a Southern lady. It is not uncommon to see the entire bridal party, from mothers, to the bride, to all of her bridesmaids wearing classic pearl bridal jewelry, such as a beautiful strand of akoya pearls.
Because Southern weddings do tend to be traditional, the bride's wedding ensemble will usually reflect this aesthetic. Gowns with romantic details like lace are ideal for a Southern bride. Pearl bridal jewelry is the perfect finishing touch for a Southern lady. It is not uncommon to see the entire bridal party, from mothers, to the bride, to all of her bridesmaids wearing classic pearl bridal jewelry, such as a beautiful strand of akoya pearls.
Southern customs are cherished for their graciousness and charm. Known worldwide for their hospitality, Southern ladies know how to plan a beautiful and inviting wedding. Whether you hail from Georgia, the Carolinas or Chicago, the customs and traditions of the South will make a wonderful addition to your wedding.
Laura helps brides with their wedding plans by offering advice on selecting bridesmaids gifts, reception ideas and other aspects of planning a wedding. Pearl bridal jewelry is a classic choice for a traditional bride, but is also available in styles that a modern bride will love.
ไม่มีความคิดเห็น:
แสดงความคิดเห็น