I said it. Lately, more and more couples are going over the planning checklist with me and going “we don’t need anything!” when it comes to registering. Don’t think yours truly had no problem filling a few pages when they put that scanner gun in my hand, but hey, some of you out there want a little more fun and a little less oohs and aahs over the pasta dish Aunt Betty got you.
I have had fun with finding these brides different shower and girls weekend options, so here are some simple local fun things to try, outside the norm.
FOR THE PAMPERED
Shopping the Right Way
Ripped straight from her blog, get your B2B (Bride-to-Be) a stylist. She may not be able to think of a single dish or linen she needs, but no woman in her right mind will ever turn down some wardrobe updates- especially leading to the big day! In lieu of gifts, everyone goes in on the shopping budget, and take her out on the town for the day with a stylist, like the amazing Alexandra based here in town.
Pretty maids from Alexandra
Brunch with Bubbles then meet her for a Frumpy to Fabulous party. Who knows! You may snag some great tips and treats for yourself along the way. The best part, Alexandra does wedding styling, so you can be sure with her input, you may get a bridesmaid dress you will actually want to wear again!
A Car with Cocktails
Step one, get a DD. Pick the party mobile to fit your style. Step two, go drinking. Yes, it sounds trashy, but Charleston has some amazing places to visit and taste everything from beer to vodka straight from where they are born. Spend the mid day on Wadmalaw with Firefly Vodka and nearby Irvin House Vineyards. Sip both and tour the grapes, all the while spending a little quality time catching up on the latest gossip.
The fun tasting room at Westbrook Brewing Co.
Next it’s time for lunch, and after that, but you still have the afternoon for Westbrook Brewing Company and Coast Brewery. Not only do you get to taste some of the finest Charleston has to offer, you can stock the bride and groom’s bar for those future dinner parties! Just remember, a heavier lunch is probably a good idea for this one, and it’s a great couples’ activity, as well.
FOR THE CRAFTY
Sew Something
The precious new storefront
If you have ever wanted to sew or slipcover something, you have been in the tired, less-than-cool fabric store. You stare at all the bolts and wonder if you look long enough, you will find something.
ou have ever wanted to sew or slipcover something, you have been in the tired, less-than-cool fabric store. You stare at all the bolts and wonder if you look long enough, you will find something.
Cute patterns and happy fabrics line the walls
There is an answer to that, though, and it is in West Ashley and ready for you to take on. Five Eighth Seams hit the scene this summer, and is not just fantastic fabrics, but also a classroom and party space. Take the bride-to-be who has everything here for a private class. Food and Bev is permitted so a little wine and cheese while you stitch never hurt. They have patterns to make the perfect party dresses for a bachelorette night on the town or, if that seems daunting, some truly homespun linens for the home of the new Mr. & Mrs. At the very least, the conversation and atmosphere will have your creative juices flowing!
The inspiring classroom space at Five Eighth
Channel Your Inner Cezanne
So, not all of us fancy ourselves painters, but a trip to Bottles ‘n Brushes can have you and your girls feeling like you can take on the Sistine Chapel…or not. No matter what, you will walk away having had a good time and laughed through it all. They post the projects so you can pick one that fits the bride’s style. At the end, no one goes home empty handed.
