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A Shore Thing

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Margaret Mueller to Christopher Hall May 30, 2004, Isle of Palms

Photographs by:

Marni Rothschild Durlach

IT’S A SHOE-IN: Guests were urged to slip off their formal footwear and don a pair of flip-flops for the beachfront ceremony.

BEST BUDS: “Because I had a limited budget for flowers, I decided I only wanted things I loved or nothing at all,” says Margaret. “There was so much outdoor scenery that I felt I didn’t need many flowers, but I splurged on my bouquet and got a thick bundle of calla lilies.”

Margaret Mueller to Christopher Hall May 30, 2004, Isle of Palms

BEACH BABES: “I told my bridesmaids that they could pick out whatever dress they wanted,” says Margaret, here with her small but close-knit wedding party. “I said I didn’t care what they chose, and would you believe it, they got matching bridesmaids dresses—albeit beautiful ones! I thought I’d given them an out, but they walked right back in!”

BEFORE SUNSET: “I didn’t want frou-frou or stuffy; I wanted simple elegance,” says Margaret. “I wanted to spend money on the things that mattered to me, rather than get caught up in details.” Wearing a L’ezu Atelier gown, Margaret was the picture of perfection—and groom Chris thought so too. “Seeing her so happy was one of the highlights of the day. I don’t really like most weddings, but ours was just amazing.”

FIELD OF DREAMS: Holding the reception on the lawn of the Isle of Palms beach house where Margaret’s family stayed for the destination wedding added to the laid-back, earthy feel of the event—and meant that no one had to drive anywhere afterwards!

PETAL PUSHERS: Hydrangeas from Charleston Flower Market—interspersed with fresh grass and candles in hurricane vases—made striking centerpieces.

MY BLUE HEAVEN: Kristin Newman chose a natural color scheme for the reception, playing on the blues and browns found at the beach.

TABLE TALK: “I wanted everyone to feel like they were an equal part of the day, which is why we decided to have three long tables in a row,” explains Margaret. “I wanted a gathering with no divisions—no ‘head table’ or ‘table of honor.’”

HAUTE CUISINE: In keeping with the “family get-together” feel of the reception, Margaret gave caterer Savory Market some of her own recipes.

BAREFOOT BOOGIE: For their first dance, the couple chose “My One and Only Love” by Sting. “Every aspect of our wedding had meaning,” says Margaret.

CHILL OUT: Though a huge hit, the elaborate tiramisu cake by Elaine’s Events had to be kept cold and ushered out just before cutting.

A Shore Thing