How We Met

Katie and Brian first crossed paths at the University of Virginia in 2004, as she was just beginning her studies as a First-Year, and he was sadly finishing up his tenure on Grounds. With their inherently contradictory schedules, it’s no surprise that they barely got to know each other during their time in Charlottesville. Nonetheless, there is documented evidence in Brian’s journal (yes, he kept a journal) confirming that they did in fact meet at the Biltmore one night, and that he was immediately quite smitten.

Fast-forwarding almost 10 years, after having built successful careers and lives in New York City, the two single, near-thirysomethings fatefully reconnected in a chance encounter as they attended the annual Team Fox charity event that Brian was co-hosting. After some clever conversation and a few mimosas, Katie was convinced to join Brian and several friends on a tour of some of Manhattan’s most lively brunch venues. It took Brian only five long months of courtship to finally win her over, and he’d like to thank their favorite establishments – the Surf Lodge, Windsor and Village Tavern – for their support during that arduous process.  

Since the outset, Katie and Brian bonded over their shared love of travel and new experiences. Their first trip together brought the young couple down to Key West, a favorite vacation destination and the fabled hometown of Brian’s favorite musician, Jimmy Buffett. After a whirlwind week on Duval Street, Katie was soon an affirmed Parrothead, thanks only in part to the study guide that Brian had prepared for her prior to the trip. Over the next few years, they rarely passed up an adventure, whether escaping to the beaches of Maui, St. Barts, Montauk and LBI, or simply Brian tagging along on one of Katie’s European work travels. 

The Proposal

On Thanksgiving of 2016, Brian proposed by surprising Katie with a Bachelor-style proposal setting (i.e., pedestal, flowers, Zac Brown, etc.) along the Hudson River overlooking the Manhattan skyline. They then traveled to his parents’ house to celebrate the holiday/occasion with both sides of the (new) family, and eventually friends Uber-ed in from NYC. A private bed-and-breakfast, complete with cozy fireplace, champagne, chocolate desserts topped off the magical day.

And now, the lovely couple is beyond excited to kick off this next stage of their lives by celebrating at Palmetto Bluff with their closest friends and family!

Friday, june 8th 2018

Saturday june 9th, 2018

ATTIRE  |  garden party cocktail

accommodations

the Montage Palmetto Bluff

477 Mount Pelia Road, Bluffton, SC 29910

Nestled along the May River in the Lowcountry of South Carolina between Hilton Head Island (~35 minute drive) and Savannah (~45 minute drive), the 20,000-acre Montage Palmetto Bluff “campus” community encompasses an extensive nature preserve, walking trails, a vibrant village, marina, restaurants, and a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Though everything is well within walking distance, bicycles and golf carts are also available to resort guests.

The property features a charming collection of rooms, suites and cottages all situated on the same campus, amongst vibrant waterfronts and tranquil forests. Designed in classic Southern style, these accommodations offer luxurious residential touches such as vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, opulent bathrooms and verandas with stunning views.

booking your reservation

When booking your reservation, please call the number below and ask for the Hilton-Thorne room block to get our rate.  The Inn is comprised of mostly king rooms.  If you are interested in a room with double queens please be sure to specify when calling as these rooms are limited.  If you have any questions or issues booking please contact Katie (katie@kathrynhilton.com).

Reservations:  (843) 706-6500

Getting Around the Property

There are many activities on the property to enjoy and the best way to get around is on bike.  Bike and golf cart rentals are readily available and can be picked up at the Village Green. 

There is no need to rent a bike or golf cart as the PB staff are on-call and constantly circulating on carts to shuttle people around the property.  If you choose to walk, all wedding events are within 7 minutes.  Additional activities on the property are within 15 minutes walking distance. 

a note on staying off-property

We strongly encourage you to stay with us on property to best take advantage of the myriad of resort activities available and wedding festivities planned throughout the weekend. Beyond the considerable distance to neighboring cities, Montage Palmetto Bluff management has warned that Uber or taxi service can be unreliable and quite expensive, especially late at night when the celebrations will inevitably wind down. [In short, let’s pretend we’re all back in college and spend the weekend together.]

Travel to Palmetto Bluff

charleston

2 hr drive

There are likely more direct flights to Charleston than Savannah, for some, this may be the preferred option.  The drive is just under 2 hours and car rentals are available at the airport.  If you choose to go this route and want to share a car, please let us know and we can connect you with other guests doing the same.

jacksonville

2 hr 15 min drive

Jacksonville is also a reasonable drive and is another great option to get to Palmetto.  The drive is scenic and there are places to stop along the way - Amelia Island, Sea Island and Jekyll Island to name a few.  Again, if you choose to fly into Jacksonville and want to share a car, we are happy to connect you with other guest doing the same.

Atlanta + charlotte airports

3 hr 45 min drive

Both Atlanta and Charlotte Airports are just under 4 hours driving distance to Palmetto Bluffs.  These larger airports offer many flights a day and include significantly more international flights.  If you're up for the drive, these are feasible options.  Additionally, there are puddle jumpers from Atlanta to Savannah that run fairly regularly.