If you’re dreaming of a celebration that feels more like an epic dinner party with all your favorite people rather than a stiff production, Mary and Phil’s day is the perfect inspiration for a laid-back and joyful Lake Wylie wedding. Mary and Phil aren’t your “pose for three hours” kind of couple. Mary (the bubbly, perceptive soul behind the magic) and Phil (a self-described “competent flibbertigibbet”) wanted a day that mirrored their cozy evening hangouts with friends at home, but maybe with a little extra dancing. They wanted the focus to be on the food and the friends and not necessarily on them.

The Red Fez Shrine Club on Lake Wylie

The Red Fez Shrine Club provided the ultimate backdrop for Mary and Phil’s Lake Wylie wedding, perfectly embodying the elevated backyard vibe they were going for. The clubhouse has a gorgeous patio that overlooks the lake and a big wraparound porch with couches and umbrellas, giving it that homey feel. Mary and Phil both got ready onsite surrounded by family and close friends. Once they were dressed and ready, we ventured outside to the sprawling green lawn that stretches right down to the water’s edge for their first look and gift exchange.

A Laid-Back, Low-Stress Wedding Celebration

Mary and Phil’s wedding ceremony and reception were full of warmth and humor. We heard the story of how they met at a friend’s dog’s birthday party and Mary won Phil over by inviting him to share a baked potato (if that isn’t the ultimate “how we met” story, I don’t know what is) and we met their incredible and authentically nerdy and proud D&D friends. We teared up during the toasts as we heard firsthand how their kindness towards others has changed lives and then we busted out some dance moves alongside the loving community that they’ve built.

Venue: Red Fez Shrine Club | Planner: The Silk Veil Events by Ivy | Catering: Queen City Catering | Flowers: Chelish Moore | Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes | DJ: Deejay Miliano | Hair: Elizabeth Tolley Beauty | MUA: Til’ Death Bridal Beauty | Wedding Dress Designer and Purchase Location: Morilee from Poffie Girls | Suit: Bruce Julian Clothier