The Journal is a collection of featured works, design inspiration, tips & advice, and so much more from Simply Charming Socials. From wedding venues to registry picks, our favorite planning secrets to the ultimate entertaining ideas, gift guides to photo galleries, we provide eye candy and a little light reading for the married-to-be's and newlyweds everywhere.
Lauren and Hailey gathered with their mama and a dozen of their best girlfriends, with their mamas, for a beautiful garden party in May. All celebrated 8th grade graduation and the sisters’ 15th birthday. It was a lovely celebration, filled with florals, photo opps, plenty of sweets, and a pool party to end the afternoon. Ladies gathered on a Saturday morning for a mother-daughter brunch, set at a beautiful long table in the back lawn of the Williamson residence, overlooking the river.
When it comes to local stationers, it's no secret that Kelsey of Lairsey Paper Co. tops the list for us. From her signature breezy hand-lettering style to her semi-custom collections, LPC is a go-to for calligraphy and event paper needs. A member of our own team on and off for years, we know very intimately how much care and love Kelsey puts into her work. She makes the process easy for her clients, has a pulse on the trends, and is always game to add personalized touches to all she does. We asked her to delve into the secrets behind customization, color trends, and how to be eco-friendly, and this is what she delivered:
Let's face it: Thank You Notes are an on-going task from the moment you get engaged. Receiving gifts from your wedding registry is thrilling, but it doesn't take much to get behind on giving thanks. Today we have some tips and tricks to help make writing your notes much more manageable.
It's no secret that we've always been in awe of our floral-arranging friends, and Alyssa Ice of Ginger Rose is no exception. This botanical beauty is a triple threat: floral designer, shop gal, and mama to her sweet little girl. We have asked Alyssa to dish some advice on trends, big floral moments, texture, and neutrals.
Baby Showers have to be in the top three socials we just love to plan. Nothing compares to the anticipation of a new little one, and the warmth you can feel around the room makes the party oh-so-sweet. We have a method for designing these darling celebrations, and the key: certain details you don't want to miss!
If you're even thinking about catering an event in Atlanta, you'll hear Bold all day every day. One of our top and most trusted companies, Bold is more than just a caterer—they are a brand and an experience. From impeccable service to delightful desserts to exciting culinary selections, we trust this company to feed our clients and their most distinguished guests. We asked Michelle to weigh in on family-style vs. stations, late-night snacks, dessert displays, and more!
Like it or not, 'tis the season to be socially distant, and what a better time than to celebrate with a beautiful intimate wedding or reception. The micro wedding, mini wedding, tiny wedding, or elopement has always been around, but we believe these petite fetes are more cherished than ever before. And though they may be small in size, these beautiful celebrations are mighty in magic.
Interiors and events have long collided as two creative industries that come together that make magic, and as the purveyor of all the pretty details, when a company comes along that has its foot in both worlds, we're immediately smitten. We're talking about one of the chicest rental companies the Southeast has to offer—Mayker. From transitional to contemporary, traditional to modern, their selection of pieces spans a variety of styles. We had a quick chat with Noelle Powell, our favorite collaborator on all things lounge and furnishings, to ask about trends, style, and the power of a really good chair.
Heirlooms are mementos or objects with sentimental value, usually passed down through generations and treasured by the owner. They can be borrowed or gifted to the bride or groom, and by including them intentionally in your wedding, they can represent and honor a story, family legacy, or person's heritage. Choosing your "something old" or "something borrowed" is a great place to start.
Nicole was showered with love by her nearest and dearest to celebrate the upcoming arrival of her baby girl. The event had a West Palm Beach theme, bringing warmth and tropical vibes to the snowy February day. The luncheon took place at the Peachtree Golf Club in Atlanta, Georgia.
Meet Jessica Blass of Jessica Gold Photography, a talented fine art photographer serving Atlanta, the Southeast, and destination events. She is a film photographer who focuses on genuine imagery for meaningful occasions. From her process on wedding day that allows her to tell a beautiful love story through photography to how she makes her clients feel at ease on a day so full of butterflies and emotions to her tips on choosing a venue, Jess gives us an inside look and her best advice.
Several years ago, in collaboration with Holly Carlisle of Rosegolden, we explored the most exquisite palette for a wedding – moody, rich, and jewel-toned. We wanted it to feel deeply romantic and highlight the beauty of a garden setting, even in early winter. Here is the story behind this editorial.
In event design, we always look to the environment for inspiration, especially in non-traditional venues, and if you know where to look, there are many wedding venues that don’t need much decor. There is something so thrilling about whisking guests away to an unassuming location and to have them be wowed. We have experience with venues of all kinds (and we definitely have our faves), but there are a few locales that are so naturally beautiful or unique, it makes our job much easier.
Nothing warms the heart more than some happy mail, so we’ve created VALENTINES | A Collection in Collaboration from Lairsey Paper Co. x Simply Charming Socials. The loveliest paper goods will have you sending x’s and o’s to your darlings. Whether you want to write a mushy-gushy love letter, share pics of your little loves with photo cards, or send good ole’ valentines to gal pals or buddies, this collection has a sweet set for all.
The professionals that you hire to plan, design, and execute one of your most memorable celebrations can be thanked with warm note, raving review, and/or a monetary gift. Gratuity is always optional, but so appreciated. We’ve broken down the protocol for who, when, what to tip and grouped the vendors into two categories: Expected (common and customary) v. Welcomed (not expected, but appreciated).
The professionals that you hire to plan, design, and execute one of your most memorable celebrations can be thanked with warm note, raving review, and/or a monetary gift. Gratuity is always optional, but so appreciated. We’ve broken down the protocol for who, when, what to tip and grouped the vendors into two categories: Expected (common and customary) v. Welcomed (not expected, but appreciated).
When I design a wedding, investing hours, days, months of creativity and passion into every thoughtful detail, I anxiously await the photos for weeks following to see the tangible proof on glorious display. I admire the flatlays and installations, the getting-ready photos and the first look shots, the golden hour portraits and the dolled-up reception room aglow awaiting its guests. But what I have found myself looking for, what gives me all the feels, is this one particular reception photo. And it all started with my own wedding, five years into my career as an event planner.
Our favorites list is ever-changing, and we have a pretty extensive roster of venues and locales, but some classics remain staples in our book. The iconic Swan House, Gardens, and Grand Overlook at the Atlanta History Center offer the loveliest combination of outdoor ceremony settings, countless photo backdrops, and a grand reception space.
