Dog may be man’s best friend, but he can also play cupid.

Call it coincidence or destiny, but neighbors Kristy McDowell and Tom Rollar kept bumping into each other while walking their dogs—a boxer and weimaraner—along the fairways of Myrtlewood Golf Course.

After five years of dog walking and friendly small talk, Tom finally asked Kristy to dinner. “Tom was just witty and funny that night, and he’s kept me smiling and laughing ever since,” says Kristy. “We took it slow and built a friendship first because I’m 35 and he’s 51, and we’re both set in our ways.”

A couple of years later, Tom, an oral surgeon, proposed while he and Kristy were vacationing during his work conference in Bermuda. “I just knew he was going to propose here,” says Kristy. “But it was perfect—under a full moonlit night on our balcony.”

And it was simple and elegant—exactly what Kristy vowed to convey on her wedding day. Held on the lawn at Pine Lakes Country Club under sunny skies, May 10, 2014, was just that. “The weather was perfect,” says Kristy. “We wanted the feeling of the day to be simple and easy, nothing over the top.”

Her lovely fitted sheath gown with lace overlay complemented her bridesmaids’ midnight cocktail dresses and bouquets of white calla lilies and sweetgrass.

A smattering of family and friends from Kristy’s native West Virginia and Tom’s home state of New Jersey were wowed by the relaxed elegance on display inside the Pine Lakes ballroom for the couple’s reception.

Tables were set with white linens and gold-rimmed chargers and accented by white tulip centerpieces. Guests lined up at a dinner buffet of Lowcountry classics and enjoyed a sweet slice from the stunning five-tier lace motif cake.

Cocktail hour was followed be the newlyweds’ entrance to U2’s “Beautiful Day” and their first dance to Etta James’ classic, “At Last.” The evening’s performance by live band Tru Sol kept everyone on their feet on the dance floor.

“The day was made so special because Tom and I had many friends that made a long trip for us,” says Kristy. “Neither of us have large families, so it was extra-special to have had friends who have been with us through different stages of our lives share in our wedding day with us.”

Kristy advises other brides to follow her credence in keeping things simple and elegant. “Remember, it’s about your family and friends,” she says. “And a planner definitely helps with all of the details. Sara McCall and her assistant made the day effortless for both Tom and me.”

Kristy, an accountant, and Tom, an oral surgeon, live in Myrtle beach with their two matchmaking dogs.

Key Vendors:
Ceremony: Pine Lakes Country
Photographer: Gillian Claire
Planner: Stunning & Brilliant Events
Cake: Croissants Bistro & Bakery
Dress: Fancy Frocks
Flowers: Little Shop of Flowers
Band: Tru Sol
DJ: Myrtle Beach DJ
Transportation:
Carolina Limousine