Magnificent at the mansion
April 4, 2024
Maura & Kenny Bitar
05.06.2023
Charlotte couple Maura and Kenny don’t enjoy being the center of attention. Kenny also doesn’t love to dance. But as Maura began planning for their wedding, she considered a lesson for them to learn a few steps.
“I thought it might be a good way to keep us a little occupied during the first dance instead of thinking about all the people staring at us,” says Maura, who met Kenny at Wake Forest University. They ended up having the entire dance choreographed, and Kenny — while nervous about the experience — leaned in. “He did fantastic, and it definitely showed that he loves and cares about me so much to go completely out of his comfort zone on our wedding day,” Maura says.
Another detail out of the couple’s comfort zone: a rainy and cold forecast for their spring outdoor ceremony. Ironically, Maura had worried the weather might be too hot for guests and had the wedding programs designed as fans. Fortunately, the weather turned, and it was a beautiful May day. Maura attributes the sunny skies to a bottle of bourbon the couple buried in their yard. “Neither of us are from the South, but I’m certainly glad we took up this tradition.”
Maura dreamed of a classic, elegant wedding with a bit of whimsy. Initially set on a neutral palette, planner Katrina Hutchins introduced bright spring colors, adding citrus elements to the décor for a playful touch. Hanging floral baskets above the head table made a striking statement, and intimate lounge areas beckoned guests to sit for a bit. “As our relationship developed and her trust in me deepened, Maura let go a bit and let us explore color and more pops in her aesthetic,” Hutchins says.
Maura appreciated the special, cohesive details and the creativity. “Walking into the reception tent I was in awe,” she says. “Our vendors brought this to life, and it was better than I could have imagined.”
The Details:
Photographer | Kristin Byrum Photography
Venue | The Duke Mansion
Planner | Katrina Hutchins Events
Floral Design | The Bloom Room
Dress | Mira Zwillinger, Ladies of Lineage
Wedding Accessories | Ladies of Lineage (earrings)
Beauty | Be Pretty
Bridesmaids Dresses | Bella Bridesmaids
Groom Attire | Bonobos, The Black Tux
Groomsmen Attire | The Black Tux
Rings | Diamonds Direct
Caterer | The Duke Mansion
Cake & Desserts | The Wow Factor Cakes (cake and desserts); Cookies on the Side (iced sugar cookies)
Music/Entertainment | Carolina Royal Strings(ceremony); The A-Town A-List (reception)
Rentals | The Prettiest Pieces, High Point; Party Reflections; Carolina’s Luxury Event Rentals; Nuage Designs
Lighting | FireFly Productions
Custom Bar & Escort Card Wall | Dan Lanning
Stationery | Paper Betty (invitations, ceremony programs, menus, drink signage, and artwork for bar and dance-floor decals)
See more Weddings by SouthPark here. Follow us on Instagram for wedding inspiration and ideas. SP
