Fine Print

Laura Watson & Michael McKee May 28, 2022 / Montage Palmetto Bluff It was no surprise to anyone when Michael proposed to Laura. It had been 14 years since the Dallas-based couple first started dating in high school. But what might have surprised guests is that they would choose the East Coast for their destination wedding—specifically the graceful and grand Montage Palmetto Bluff. Laura had pages and pages of inspiration boards to share with her planner, Neillie Butler of Mariée Ami, but it was one fabric sample she’d been holding onto forever that inspired the design—a floral print adorned with wispy blue flowers and greenery. So as wedding planners do, Neillie improvised, working with Laura to produce a custom print based on the fabric, which they carried throughout the wedding, from the save-the-dates and envelope liner to the table cards, linens, and tent draping. Flowers, too, were in great abundance. In shades of white, delicate neutrals, ample greenery, and an occasional pop of light blue, a variety of blooms graced every table and surface, spilling down entryways and framing the reception stage. The party was one for the books, with revelers sporting glittery and glowing cowboy hats and glow-in-the-dark baton wands as the night wore on. And in Lowcountry fashion, the newlyweds made their getaway in a golf cart chariot decked with custom fabric. Top Tips • Brand your wedding. Go beyond just colors. Patterns help create a consistent look, which can be carried throughout your wedding weekend. • Consider a custom pattern. The couple worked with an in-house design team at Mariée Ami to create their own pattern and source the production. It wasn’t an inexpensive effort, but did make for a big impact. Planner Neillie Butler says you can basically print on anything. Backdrops and print materials may be the most common applications, but you can print a sticker to customize your dance floor. The front of the bar can also be wrapped in the pattern. And, of course, in the McKee’s case, you can print on fabric. Vendors Planning & Design: Mariée Ami Photographer: Virgil Bunao Venue, Catering, Bar: Montage Palmetto Bluff Cake: Minette Rushing Custom Cakes Florals: Em Creative Floral Rentals: Beachview Event Rentals Linens: Mariée Ami; La Tavola Lighting: Tinker and Blaze Stationery: Mariée Ami Bridal Attire: Lela Rose (dress); Harriet Ivory by Emmy London (shoes) Bridesmaid Attire: Jenny Yoo, Bella Bridesmaids Beauty: Meg McMillion Beauty