Fall 2011 $5.99 OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
FROM THE EDITOR Content is King
Up until a few months ago, everything at the Occasions Magazine office was status quo. We’ve been working like a well oiled machine and growing at a steady pace. This issue, with the exception of new articles and events, was on track to be relatively similar to our issues in the past. But, somewhere between that smooth sailing and this letter all creativity broke loose. You see, typically the way things work around here is: I select the real events we feature, update the website with new blogs and decide on what articles we’ll cover each issue in addition to wearing all my other “business owner” hats. I feel pretty confident that for the resources I have, I’ve been able to make the magazine a good read and resource for you. But one day, when all my tasks were weighing heavily on me, I decided I didn’t want just a good magazine, I wanted a great one. The best, in fact. Since keeping up with trends, knowing what’s relative to readers, appealing to different personalities and sourcing new products and ideas is what magazines are made of and most importantly, not a one-woman job... I knew an editor was in order. So, I posted a position for an Associate Editor to join our team, prayed for the perfect candidate and waited it out. Just two days and several resumes later I received an email with the subject line “All Things Wedding Enthusiast Seeks Dream Job“ and the Occasions Magazine world was changed forever.
Photos by Ben Vigil
Facebook.com/ OccasionsMagazine Twitter.com/ HeatherVreeland
Callie Rogers, an Ole’ Miss graduate hailing from Houston, Texas was led to us by way of FindaWeddingJob.com and she’s as true to her opening line as the grass is green. A lover of weddings since she was just a kid, she can recite any line from Father of the Bride at a moments notice. You should see her rendition of “yes, Frank we’ll have the chipper chicken.” I swear she’s got the personality of 10 people all squished into her little petite party-loving frame and the girl gels with our tight-knit group of fearless women that make up Occasions like she was made for this magazine. Since May, she and I have put our heads together and ventured out on a quest for greatness. We’ve been brainstorming, weighing options, and asking ourselves... “what do our readers want?” Callie’s become a writing work horse and I’ve been designing pages non-stop. We’ve spent hours making this issue just right. Trust me when I tell you, you’ll be inspired by the countless new ideas she brought to the table and be thankful that she fought long and hard for sections that I wanted to cut. This issue looks different and has new sections because there is always room for improvement and we’ve made it our mission that with each Occasions Magazine you pick up, it only gets better and better. If content is king, Callie is queen. She’s got one agenda: to make this magazine great. I encourage you to get to know our new Associate Editor. Tweet her at @editorcallie, email her your questions and ideas to callie@occasionsonline.com and while you’re at it, answer that question we’ll always be asking ourselves... “What do our readers want?” Cheers to the cooler days and holiday parties to come!
Heather Vreeland Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
>>>WRITE ME ANYTIME AT HEATHER@OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
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OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 3
FROM THE PUBLISHER
Are you ready for some... There is nothing more I enjoy than the weekend mornings on our veranda with my husband and three pups. This is our time to sip coffee and catch up on our week and play with the dogs in the yard. Recently one of our conversations drifted to the topic of Fall and the beautiful yellow and orange leaves that will soon hang from our trees. Fall in our house (well I shall say most of our community) is SEC Football and ALTA Fall tennis. Fall to me is the gathering of friends for laughs, good food, warm apple cider and beautiful fall décor. The definition of décor is: “a decorative style or scheme of a room.” In my opinion though, décor is more than that. It is the sum total of an event made up by beautiful linens, drapery, floral designs, table settings and so much more. One of the many things I’ve learned through working on this fantastic magazine is that décor is not only for weddings and over the top special events, but for backyard parties, tailgating and tennis matches, too.
Photo by Ben Vigil
Facebook.com/ OccasionsMagazine Twitter.com/ Lisa_Alexander
From rich autumn color schemes, to backyard birthday parties and the latest design trends, this fall we’re giving you the most event inspiration to date. Celebrating in style truly reaches all of life’s events, and that’s what we hope you’ll notice when flipping through our pages. And as you are enjoying this issue, our wonderful team will be working furiously on the Winter 2012 issue. We are brimming with idea’s for our, “Occasions Celebrates the Best of Atlanta” contest. Keep an eye on our blog and social media pages for the exciting details coming soon. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to vote for your favorite event pro! What I love about Occasions is that we publish all events from weddings to baby showers, birthday parties to Mitzvahs and yes, I bet you’ll even see a football party on our blog before the season is over!
Lisa Alexander Associate Publisher and Advertising Director
>>>WRITE ME ANYTIME AT LISA@OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
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Make your design dreams a reality.
BREATHTAKING DÉCOR + IMAGINATIVE FLORALS = MEMORABLE EVENTS 404.815.1178 or visit boldamericandesign.com today.
5 | THE MAGAZINE FOR IN STYLE call ForCELEBRATING more information,
IN THIS ISSUE Fall 2011 “When was the last time you were mesmerized at a party, and not because you’d had one too many Long Island Iced Teas?” - page 24
100 112
IN EVERY ISSUE
8 13 33 53 111 160
NEW & NOW EVENT ELEMENTS STYLE SPARK VENUE GUIDE REAL EVENTS PARTING FAVORITES
14
“celebrating in true southern style, a large mouth bass hit top water as the pastor closed the service in prayer. Amen!....” - page 135
22
33
PRIVATE DINING & REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATIONS
28
there’s more to this magazine than what’s in your hand....
FIND NEW CONTENT ONLINE, EVERYDAY ..... OccasionsOnline.com
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108
NEW & NOW
H A P P E N I N G I N A N D A R O U N D AT L A N TA F O R E V E N T S
NEW FACILITY AT FOXHALL RESORT We’ve got such a treat in store for you with our cover story at the ohso-scenic Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club. Equally as exciting is the new Legacy Lodge that’s broken ground on the property. The facility is a whopping 4,000 square feet and overlooks one of Foxhall’s many beautiful lakes. Complete with state of the art kitchen and natural architectural features, it’s special event perfection. Visit their website at www.foxhallsportingclub.com for more information and head over to page 34 to check out more of the Foxhall goodness!
C O V E R S H O O T LO C AT I O N !
MY BIG FAT GYPSY TENT There is a new tent in town, people! Event Rentals Unlimited has partnered with Gypsy Faire Tents to bring the exotic flair of gypsy tents to the deep south. I know, you’re wondering, “What the heck is a gyspy tent?” Well, unlike a standard white tent, these larger than life tents are highly decorative, hand crafted and wonderfully whimsical. Exteriors are made of heavy cotton canvas, drapes are sheer cotton voile and interior walls and ceilings are made with handprinted cotton. The result is an India-inspired atmosphere of rich prints, pattern and textures that will likely evoke more than just one “wow” from your guests. Visit www.erultd.com for more information.
LOWER PRICED LETTERPRESS This just in: stationery extraordinare Sandi Spells is your new BFF. Why, you ask? Knowing that many of her clients love the chic look of letterpressed stationery, but not the expensive price tag that so often comes with it, Sandi set out to find a solution that was both economical and beautiful. Luckily for us, she found the answer in her longtime pressman. The stroke of genius can now be referred to as SpellPress, and we’re all kinds of excited about it. SpellPress is a relief print process that uses matte and tint pigments instead of the standard ink. Need a translation? The SpellPress ink process means fewer dollars out of your pocket. Now that’s a solution everyone can love! To see color and pattern combinations or to get in touch with Sandi, visit www. sandispells.com and enjoy!
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NEW & NOW • CONTINUED
NEW BRIDAL GOWN IN TOWN: E. LEBRON Continuing to make his mark on the bridal design scene, Efran Lebron-Arroyo puts down roots in Atlanta and solidifies himself as a fashion force to be reckoned with. Having spent four successful seasons working as a freelance designer for major bridal brands, Efran decided it was time to blaze his own trail. And boy are we glad that he did. Starting this month, you can find Mr. Lebron-Arroyo posting up shop at the Atlanta Wedding Loft in Decatur. Once there, you can peruse through the new collection of gorgeous gowns inspired by vintage details, pop culture and today’s bride. With the combination of his fashion styling, education in design, knowledge of garment construction and hands on experience with hundreds of brides, E. Lebron is taking the gown shopping experience to another level. Gowns are made and manufactured right here in Atlanta, meaning greater flexibility in production and the absolute best customer service. Personally, we can’t get enough of E. Lebron and his intricate lace, silk and tulle detailing. And that sassy short, ruffled number in the picture to your right? Don’t mind if we do. Brace yourselves brides, and get ready to fall in love...again. Visit www.elebron.com for more information and to schedule a fitting.
Photos by The Decisive Moment
JW MARRIOTT MAKEOVER Changes are coming to the JW Marriott. In fact, plans for a beautiful renovation are coming to the tune of $10 million dollars! The complete hotel overhaul will include newly designed guest rooms and suites, Concierge Lounge, elegant lobby, sundry retail shop, Coffee Corner and Lobby Bar. Perhaps most exciting will be the 2,500 square foot Charleston Meeting Room. The expansive meeting space -- perfect for any special event -- will feature floor to ceiling windows offering guests a breathtaking view of the city. You can get a sneak peek at the new look with the rendering on the right. Pretty spectacular isn’t it? The new public space will be unveiled in October 2011, followed by the Concierge Lounge and suite completion in November of the same year.
PINTEREST PANDEMONIUM If you’re not familiar with the inspiration site galore that is Pinterest, now is the time to get in on the action. Gone are the days of endlessly bookmarking online images that you love, or keeping track of loose pictures (and then losing them, who are we kidding). Pinterest lets you keep your inspiration in one handy-dandy little...er, big place. Finally all of your hand picked prettiness is before you, linked, organized and categorized onto your own “boards,” specifically to your liking! All you do is simply “pin” any online image and designate it to one of your boards. We love that you’re able to not only create your own boards, but view and re-pin pictures from other users as well. To get your invitation to join, visit www.pinterest.com. It will only take a few days to get started and become fully obsessed..I mean, immersed. We found proof of the “pinning” phenomenon online everywhere but especially loved this “Keep Calm and Pin” word art by The Savvy Photographer.
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We asked our Friends on Twitter and facebook... In our never ending quest to bring you the latest and greatest event ideas, we stumbled upon a trend that got the Occasions office buzzing: gourmet jello shots. Not to be confused with their college party counterpart, these bite-sized cocktails looked more like decadent art than frat food. SO WE ASKED OUR READERS, WOULD YOU CONSIDER SERVING THEM AT YOUR NEXT PARTY?
RENEE HILL MEEK “I absolutely would! Im famous for having jello shots at my parties. Adults only, of course!”
JENNIFER MCDORMAND SHIELDS “No. Way.” DONNA AT FABULOUSFETES “They’re pretty but I still can’t get past the connotation....”
AMOS EVENTS “Yes - they look great!”
••• Stemming from an @editorcallie search for a egg-free wedding cake, we shared the new dessert trend from an old favorite: a Rice Krispies Treat cake. And not only did we find a pretty tiered cake, but cake pop and cupcake versions too! As it turns out, you were just as excited as we were to hear the news. HERE’S WHAT YOU HAD TO SAY ABOUT OUR LATEST DISCOVERY...
PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Heather Vreeland Heather@OccasionsOnline.com
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Andrew Vreeland Andrew@OccasionsOnline.com
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Lisa Alexander Lisa@OccasionsOnline.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Callie Rogers Callie@occasionsonline.com
SENIOR ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Cheryl Isaacs Cheryl@OccasionsOnline.com
RELATIONSHIP MANAGER
Jennifer Taylor Jennifer@OccasionsOnline.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Leanna Adams Kristin Devoto
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY Ben Vigil Photographers
CHRISTINA KAZADZIS “I love how old school favorites are making a comeback!”
LISA MCCOY “And now they are gluten free too!!!” THE BUSY BUDGETING MAMA “I love this idea. And it’s totally budget friendly! For a recent party we hit up Aldi’s and had so much fun making up some of these sweets with my 3 yr old! It was a hit in our house. But next time I want to jazz them up and make them pretty like this! Adorable.”
Send us Your Pictures! We want to see YOU at your fab occasion! Log onto Facebook, “LIKE” Occasions Magazine and then post a picture from your event on our wall.
Facebook.com/OccasionsMagazine
2030 Avalon Parkway, Suite 405 McDonough, GA 30253 (888) 262-8881 info@occasionsonline.com | OccasionsOnline.com Twitter.com/OccasionsMag | Facebook.com/OccasionsMagazine
SUBSCRIBE
In-the-know readers turn to Occasions Magazine for all things wedding & party planning. So, if you’ve got an upcoming occasion on the calendar, subscribe to Occasions Magazine to get all this goodness, delivered right to your doorstep for just $16.95 www.OccasionsOnline.com/subscribe
ADVERTISE
Occasions Magazine offers several print and online avenues to connect local businesses to our readers. We love playing matchmaker. For information and a media kit visit www.OccasionsOnline.com/advertising. Want your event featured? Send it our way! We are looking for remarkable weddings, mitzvahs, parties and events to feature. If you have an event that you’d like for us to consider, please visit www.OccasionsOnline.com/submissions to review the event submission procedures. Occasions Magazine is published tri-annually. Copyright 2011. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written consent of Occasions Magazine, Inc. is strictly prohibited. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in Occasions Magazine, no responsibility can be accepted for the quality of goods and services provided by advertisers or printer’s errors. All advertisements are accepted and published on the representation that advertisers are properly authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. All editorial images not specifically credited to a photographer are courtesy of the respective company and used with their permission. Published and printed in the USA.
EVENT ELEMENTS Party Planning Pointers for Every Occasion
Large round image by: Jose Villa, see more on page 16; Small round image courtesy of Paloma’s Nest, see more on page 18
ELEMENTS OF STYLE LOCATION DECOR STATIONERY ENTERTAINMENT CATERING DESSERT
Brand spanking new to you this Fall is our
ELEMENTS OF STYLE feature. You asked for more inspiration and we’re delivering. Selecting three hot color trends, we’ve scoured our little black book -- and the internet -- to bring you the best ideas for pulling off your event design with undeniable s-t-y-l-e.
Plus you’ll find helpful articles covering these topics and more online, all the time OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 13
ELEMENTS OF STYLE
EVERGREEN EVER AFTER 1
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Where to Buy
1- Spring One Shoulder Pleated Dupioni Dress: MONIQUE LHUILLIER 2 - 1960 Jomaz Earrings: HOUSE OF LAVANDE 3 - Invitations: WEDDING PAPER DIVAS 4 - Green Bouquet Image by Christine Gallagher Photography: “SUPER GREEN ROSES” WITH GREEN “KERMIT” BUTTON MUMS 5 - Green Chevron Plate: COTON COLORS 6 - Green Paper Party Decorations: BHLDN 7 - Evergreen Party Garland: BHLDN
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ELEMENTS OF STYLE
MUSTARD MUST HAVES 1
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Where to Buy
1- Love Poster for Guest Book Alternative: Etsy Shop, FIELD TRIP 2- Bridesmaid Separates in Mustard and Sear Sucker: CORE BRIDESMAID COUTURE 3 - Cocktail Weddding Reception Invitation Suite: MINTED.COM 4- Cake: TASTY PASTRY 5 - Vintage Bracelet with Mustard Bow: Etsy Shop, DREAMY VINTAGE 6 - Table Design: CANVAS AND CANOPY EVENTS, Flowers: JL DESIGNS, Production: BE INSPIRED PR, Photography: JOSE VILLA 7 - Bowtie: Etsy Shop, DIVINE DOMESTICATION
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ELEMENTS OF STYLE
SHADES OF PEARL
5
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3 6
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Where to Buy
1- Tissue Puff Napkin Ring: Etsy Shop, MEDLODYWEI 2 - Custom Cake Plate, Wooden Cuff Links, and Congratulations Ribbon: PALOMA’S NEST 3 - Filigree Cupcake Dress: BHLDN 4 - Feather and Pearl Cake Topper: Etsy seller, BRITTEN UK 5 - Pearl Cake: SWEET SENSATIONS 6 - Pearl Invitation Suite: SANDI SPELLS DESIGNS 7 - Champagne Embroidered Sheer and Ivory Crushed Romance Linens: CONNIE DUGLIN LINEN 8 Shoes: BADGLEY MISCHKA
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EVENT ELEMENT • LOCATION
REPURPOSED VENUES By: Kristin Devoto
Venues rich with history lend an enhanced personality to any event that just can’t be duplicated in a more corporate setting. Here are three of Atlanta’s finest types of repurposed venues, all waiting to infuse your next event with their own special brand of charm. INDUSTRIAL SPACES SUMMEROUR STUDIO, now managed by Novare Events, was originally built as a factory in the 1920’s, then served as home to Preston Rose Printing and eventually to the Summerour & Associates architecture firm. Renowned architect Keith Summerour refurbished the Westside Atlanta space in 2005, maintaining as much of its character as possible, and adding a Tuscan-inspired courtyard. Guests find the European, Old World feel appealing, said Myrna Antar, executive director of Novare Events. “It has the rich character and curved wooden ceiling, with lots of exposed metal and lots of natural light.” The hand-crafted wood replica of Michelangelo’s Laurentian Library staircase in the venue also adds a dramatic wow factor. “The history and uniqueness of the venue are valuable,” said Antar, who also manages events at THE FOUNDRY AT PURITAN MILL, the former home of the Puritan Chemical Company. “The old wooden ceiling and brick walls add character to any event,” she added. Since being refurbished by Urban Realty Partners and Weaver & Woodbery Company in 2000 after being abandoned for 4 years, the venue has become an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic industrial atmosphere.
TRAIN DEPOTS
SHOWN HERE Above: Summerour Studio located in Midtown Atlanta; Photography by Alecia Lauren Photography; Right: Hazlehurst House located in McDonough, GA.
550 TRACKSIDE, located in Lawrenceville, began life as a railroad-side cotton warehouse in 1904. Roger Kahn, the venue’s current owner, worked for two years to restore and refurbish the space using authentic details. “We tried to preserve as much of the building as possible,” said Kahn. Those authentic details include original wood, granite walls, dramatic archways and a fireplace. Along the way, the space was enhanced with a spectacular catering kitchen, modern conveniences and a patio and courtyard. “The historic venue evokes a sense of going back in time,” said Kahn. “It’s an old building made functional, and people really appreciate the historic detail.”
ANTEBELLUM HOMES “The benefit here is that it’s a much more intimate and personal feel. Taking an old house and turning it into a venue - you feel a difference in the hospitality,” explained HAZLEHURST HOUSE owner Felicia Watts. Hazlehurst House dates back to 1829, when it was the first titled home in McDonough. Owned by the same family until the 1990’s, the Hazlehurst House history is the inspiration that drives Watts as she manages events there. “Our brand, our signature, is to be an extension of how someone would treat a guest if they were visiting in a personal home,” she said.
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PROMOTION
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CAKES BY ORIGINALS
GIGI’S CUPCAKES | Sandy Springs
LUSH CAKERY
Making “special desserts for special occasions” in Atlanta for over 10 years!
Gourmet cakes swirled high with frosting - that’s a Gigi’s Cupcake. A delicious way to make any party a hit!
We work with each client to personalize their cake and see their dream come to life in a cake!
www.originalscatering.com (770) 471-3259
www.gigiscupcakesusa.com (404) 856-0706
www.lushcakery.com (404) 849-9393
PERFECT WEDDING CAKE
SWEET INFINITY CAKES
Presenting Sweet Shot Cake Pushups! Available in assorted flavors for weddings, birthdays or any event.
www.perfectweddingcake.com (770) 971-1700
We freshly bake traditional to contemporary cakes, cupcakes and cheesecakes for all occasions.
www.sweetinfinitycakes.com (770) 599-1775
TASTY PASTRY Tasty Pastry is your one stop sweet shop for dessert bars, wedding cakes and custom specialty cakes.
www.tastypastry.com (770) 475-8181
Photo by Kristy Dickerson Photography
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Photo by Melissa Schollaert Photography
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EVENT ELEMENT • DECOR
CLOCHE CENTERPIECES By: Kristin Devoto
Is it any surprise that something old is new again? Right now, the freshest centerpiece concept out there is the cloche, a glass covering that is placed on top of flowers or other objects. Florists and designers across Atlanta are seeing a resurgence in this quaint look as brides and event planners fall in love with its 19th century charm. WHERE DID THE CLOCHE COME FROM? Danny Wilson, owner and director of THE SAVAGE GARDEN, has seen a slight increase in requests for cloche centerpieces. “They were originally designed and used to protect seedlings,” he explained. “With lots of new trends, we actually go back and pull from history,” said Deborah Bolger, owner of BUDS N BELLS, explaining that cloches were first popular in the 1800s. “People are looking for something different, something unique,” she continued. “They don’t want a typical look, they want something more artistic.”
WHAT’S THE POWER OF THE CLOCHE? “Whenever you put something under glass, it makes it more special,” said Wilson. “You can take anything and put it under glass and take it to the next level.” When he said “anything,” Wilson wasn’t exaggerating. The cloche trend extends to far more than flowers. “Figurines, pincushions, spheres, literally anything you put in takes on added significance,” he said. “Say you had your grandfather’s pocket watch. You might put that under a cloche in your home to elevate the object. It’s really a way to showcase something with emotional importance.” That translates to event centerpieces as well. Wilson described a recent event with a very vintage feel. The centerpieces were all different vintage objects, each under a cloche. The continued use of the cloche tied the theme together and unified the room.
ARE CLOCHE CENTERPIECES RIGHT FOR EVERY EVENT?
SHOWN HERE Above: Cloche over birds nest centerpiece, Photography by Jeff Roffman Photography; Right: Floral Cloche designed by The Savage Garden, Photography by Ben Vigil Photographers
Both Bolger and Wilson agree that the cloche is not right for every event. “Anyone trying to use or exemplify a vintage or collective look, they’re perfect for that,” said Wilson. “It’s not appropriate for a contemporary event,” he continued. Wilson explained that cloches come in a variety of shapes, though most are commonly bell-shaped. “If you choose clear and not bell-shaped, you might be able to transition it to a slightly more contemporary event,” he said, though he noted that the best match for the look is a vintage theme. For example, for a bride who loves a historically charming look, this is a good fit. It would work well in a historic venue and garden setting. Whatever the setting, the number one recommendation is: get creative with your cloches and experiment with trinkets, figurines and flowers that show off your personality.
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EVENT ELEMENT • ENTERTAINMENT
MAGNIFICENT MAGICIANS By: Leanna Adams
When was the last time you were mesmerized at a party, and not because you’d had one too many Long Island Iced Teas? Watching Joe M. Turner of TURNER MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT perform, you are at first captivated by the story he tells and subsequently astounded by the impossible finale. And then you know: Magicians aren’t just for kids anymore. Wondermakers like Turner are debonair entertainers that deliver a message or tell a story that meshes neatly with the event at hand. So, why should you use a magician at your next event?
THE UNEXPECTED. Watching a magic act or meeting a magician at a party is something most people won’t expect, but the act can be customized so that it is appreciated in the right setting. Think about it – they can make an engagement ring appear before your very eyes! Or make cash materialize at a fundraiser! The possibilities for a miraculous tie-in are endless.
THE ATTENTION There is an element of surprise that goes along with these sophisticated tricks. It can make a big difference in how people pay attention at an event or to an important message.
THE ADULTS The work of magicians like Turner isn’t designed for kids. These elegant illusionists focus on telling a story for adults, but in a way that kids and families will enjoy, too. They can stroll around a reception for two hours going group to group or table to table. THE CROWD Some people never dance when a band or DJ is the planned entertainment. Adding a magician offers something interesting that guests can enjoy and talk about long after the event is over.
THE MAGIC A talented magician can create a completely customized
SHOWN HERE Joe Turner of Turner Magic demonstrates a magic trick at one of his recent weddings.
act. They can mingle at a party or plan a longer more extravagant parlor performance. The show could include two items or people coming together with cards, a ring or another physical symbol of the occasion (that later becomes a custom keepsake!). A lot of what an audience will enjoy is a magician as a storyteller and performer, but the real magic is the mesmerizing experience the audience has.
THE BOTTOM LINE In Turner’s own words, “A magic act is like any theatrical production – you can do it on a shoestring and it can be very memorable or you can invest a lot in the production value and create something spectacular for your audience.” Search YouTube using “Joe Turner Magic” and see firsthand clips of his repertoire. And before you can say “Alakazam,” I bet you’ll be hooked on magicians, too.
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EVENT ELEMENT • STATIONERY
OVER-THE-TOP ENVELOPES By: Kristin Devoto
Though an amazing invitation sets the tone for a fabulous event, there is no reason for envelopes to take second stage. With some creative design, an invitation’s envelope can become over-thetop incredible, signaling guests that the event is one not to be missed! Christine Eberle, of full service design studio EBERLE INVITATIONS, attributes the recent surge in envelope creativity to a desire to make the right impression on guests from the moment they gather their mail. “The envelope is the first, first impression,” she said. “With embellishments, it’s not your cookie cutter invitation and it really stands out in the mail.”
GO OVER THE TOP WITH A CUSTOM DESIGNER Embellishments range from simple to intricate. Eberle often suggests simply using a colored envelope that corresponds to a layer of the invitation to make an impact. Envelope address bands, aka belly bands, are another option that adds flair. For those after a truly custom look, Eberle embellishes envelopes with the graphics or motifs designed for the invitation. Recent designs have included a charming monogram featuring a couples’ names and silhouettes of two small birds on a return address, an elegant, willowy tree leaning over the address on a modified address band, and a starfish motif on both front and back of an envelope for a destination wedding. Working with a custom designer, the options are endless, making it easy to craft an over the top envelope that commands immediate attention.
ENHANCING PURCHASED ENVELOPES
SHOWN HERE Envelopes designed by Luxe Expressions
Just because envelopes may have been purchased with invitations doesn’t mean they can’t be embellished. Susan Ross Hammer, owner of FONTASTIC, specializes in computerized calligraphy. Her clients often bring in invitations and ask her to match the address calligraphy to the invitation. “There are so many great fonts, and designers are making them more and more affordable,” Hammer explained. Graphics are also an option. Though Hammer suggests avoiding graphics with classic wedding invitations that have already been designed, graphics work well to enhance envelopes for other events like birthdays, showers and rehearsal dinners. For a child’s birthday, she explained, she might add a cute cupcake next to the address, and print “Abigail’s Turning One!” above the return address.
EMBELLISHMENT OPTIONS ABOUND There’s no reason to house stunning invitations in boring envelopes ever again. Colored stock, addresses framed in delicate swishes and coordinating graphics are only a few ideas. Let your imagination run wild to inspire truly over the top envelopes for your next event.
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770.587.9117
www.adivineevent.com
imagine an occasion where heaven arrives on a plate, arousing devilish cravings. Meet A Divine Event. For more than a decade, a passionate love affair with food has inspired our rise to the top. One sinfully sensational bite says it all. Inspired by our one true love, food is our focus served with a side of delectable decor, smooth organization and flawless service. If it all can't be temptingly tasty and mischievously mouth-watering, what's the point?
w ickedly delic iou s
EVENT ELEMENT • CATERING
FOOD TRUCK CATERING CRAZE By: Leanna Adams
The latest craze in catering is motorized. Famous chefs are jumping on food trucks, and people are flocking to them. Just go to Atlantic Station on a Friday and you’ll see what all the fuss is about. WHY CHOOSE A TRUCK INSTEAD OF TRADITIONAL CATERING? They’re fun and they’re different. They smell good because people are cooking delicious food inside. It’s gourmet food being prepared right there in front of you. People walk up and there’s a chef on board. The food is made to order - it’s gourmet food served quickly. The truck will come to your house! It will pull up in your driveway! It’s a lot to eat. Best of all, your order can be very reasonable per person.
WHAT TRUCKS ARE OUT THERE? There are tasty trucks taking to the road all over Atlanta and surely more to come. The craze started with YUMBII, which was Atlanta’s first food truck, blending Asian and Mexican flavors into mouth-watering bites that have folks lining up outside the truck with the giant octopus on it to order things like Asian Rib-Eye Beef Tacos and Sesame Fries. “People like coming up and ordering,” said Rebecca Young, mother of Carson Young, owner of Yumbii, which, as this article is being written, is expanding to a second truck. “We do a lot of events, engagement parties and rehearsal dinners and we’ve done several weddings. We can customize any catering menu. Then the truck pulls up.”
HOW DO TRUCKS CATER A SPECIAL OCCASION?
SHOWN HERE Above: Yumbii Food Truck owner, Carson Young. Right: Yumbii’s Barbeque Sliders
It depends on the size of your party. “A couple hundred can come up to the truck,” said Rebecca Young, “more than two hundred, and we’ll set up tables with servers. We do good-sized meals for groups and office gatherings and we’ve even catered a lunch for Turner Broadcasting for 1200 people.” Young also said that when catering with a truck like Yumbii it’s nice to also order a dessert truck. How about Yum Yum Cupcake Truck? With a hot pink truck called “Pinkie” and creamy cupcakes, you can’t go wrong. Or, who can forget King of Pops? Delicious, fresh, all-natural, frozen pops with unique tongue-tastic flavors like Blackberry Bellini, Raspberry Lime and, my favorite, Coconut Lemongrass. Getting gourmet bites out of a truck is a phenomenon that’s here to stay because it’s fresh, it’s fast and it moves! Find the food trucks of Atlanta by checking their websites and Twitter.
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OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 29
EVENT ELEMENT • CATERING
ICE CREAM COUTURE By: Leanna Adams
Would you let a stranger pick out your flavor at the ice cream parlor? Then why let them pick for you and all of your guests at an event? When you think about it that way, it just seems wrong. Well, now you can choose for yourself because there’s HIGH ROAD CRAFT ICE CREAM & SORBET. Founder and CEO, Chef Keith Schroeder, started High Road as a food service company creating luxury ice cream for chefs in the Atlanta community. They have stellar signatures like Caffeine & Cacao (the Flavor of Georgia award winner), but they also do seasonal flavors, sorbets, and even straightforward favorites (like Chocolate Chunk and Peanut Butter), spiced ice cream (like Saffron!), gelato, global flavors (like Salted Cajeta), and classic cocktail sorbets (like Mai Tai). Over time, High Road found out that many people outside of the food business had professional-level awareness about what they eat. Now High Road offers custom flavors of beautiful, hand-dipped ice cream for individuals and groups.
WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE CUSTOM ICE CREAM?
Because High Road makes premium, mostly organic and local, all flavorcentric ice cream, they will work with you to create a customized creation that is unique to you and your event. “We recently had a bride work with our kitchen staff,” said Schroeder. “We scheduled a time for her to come in and work with us, and she made this gorgeous espresso-based ice cream with a fudge ribbon and hazelnuts swirled in. It combined the three things she and her husband love to eat and drink.”
WHO CAN CHOOSE TO GO CUSTOM?
Anyone doing a large gathering or wedding can choose to customize their ice cream. High Road does a lot of work through caterers and restaurants, but with a special event, you could order a large enough amount. Keep in mind that the smallest order would be (4) 2.5L pans. Schroeder described the ideal custom client by saying, “If they’re enthusiastic people and food is an important part of their lives, then we would love to extend that experience to them.”
SMALL CROWD SIDENOTE SHOWN HERE High Road Craft Ice Cream & Sorbet
High Road does their classic cocktail sorbets in smaller amounts and will offer custom pairings like a Red Berry Prosecco sorbet with champagne. Yum! And on Saturdays their factory store (that the public can tour) also sells pints. The choices available are usually specialty flavors that they have leftover from a larger run.
WHAT ELSE IS THERE?
The other thing High Road offers is an ice cream alternative to groom’s cake. Schroeder has met many men who prefer ice cream to cake, so he creates man-centric flavors for the rehearsal dinner party - a groom’s ice cream instead of a groom’s cake for those non-cake eaters out there. “’Cake is for girls’ is our big joke now,” said Schroeder. Their bourbonburnt sugar was created specifically with men in mind, but, I can tell you now, this dreamy ice cream is gender neutral.
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OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 31
www.dhcphoto.com 866.977.5556
STYLE SPARK Inspiration for Every Occasion
INSPIRATION ON LOCATION SHOP THE SHOOT PALETTE PERSPECTIVES
What do you get when you take three brilliant event designers, give them a fabulous fall color palette and let them loose to create? Our new PALETTE PERSPECTIVES feature. We’re giving you three times the ideas as our design extraordinaires show you how they’d interpret our cover color scheme.
Plus, you’ll find endless image galleries full of inspiration and ideas online, too! OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 33
STYLE SPARK
Inspiration ON LOCATION FOXHALL RESORT AND SPORTING CLUB
JUST TWENTY MINUTES FROM ATLANTA HARTSFIELD-JACKSON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LIES A HIDDEN GEM IN OUR FAIR STATE’S CROWN. FOXHALL RESORT AND SPORTING CLUB IS THAT PROVERBIAL PIECE OF SERENITY AND BREATHTAKING SCENERY WE ALL LONG TO ESCAPE TO. AND WHETHER YOUR ESCAPE IS AN INTIMATE PARTY OF FIVE OR FIFTY THOUSAND, THE EXPANSIVE EQUESTRIAN PROPERTY HOLDS THE SAME AMOUNT OF MAGIC. IT WAS THE VERY MAGIC OF THIS PROPERTY PAIRED WITH THE UNDENIABLE MAGIC OF AUTUMN THAT INSPIRED OUR OWN BIRTHDAY PARTY TALE & INSPIRATION ON THE GROUNDS.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEN VIGIL PHOTOGRAPHERS
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STYLE SPARK • INSPIRATION ON LOCATION
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A FOXHALL AFFAIR With over 1,100 acres on the western bank of the Chattahoochee River, there is certainly more than one place to start your party at Foxhall. We chose the brand new Grand Pavillion. With it’s clean, simple layout and stunning great room opening onto a sprawling lush event lawn, it is the perfect first impression you could hope to make with guests. While dinner gets cooking in the full sized, state- of- the art kitchen, take a stroll with me across the rocking chair laden front porch and join the rest of our birthday party for a cocktail.
DETAILS Natural rich stone and timber cover every square inch of this architectural beauty, including the two story stacked stone fireplace that is the centerpiece of the outdoor patio. We envisioned our birthday girl to be something of a glitterati who also happens to enjoy fly fishing. BOLD AMERICAN EVENTS helped us satisfy her distinct taste with flower arrangements that were a regal, deep aubergine and lavender, accented with dustings of champagne and bronze. We cleverly DIY-ed the candlesticks by spray gluing the sticks and covering them with ultra fine glitter. A sparkling CELEBRATE banner also hung from the mantle, made from shimmering paper cutouts and strung together with purple twine.
Editors Note
Brand new to Atlanta, we were thrilled to be the first to use these beautiful Tuscan Cafe chairs from CLASSIC PARTY RENTALS in a photo shoot. A breath of fresh rental-chair air, these brown beauties are a happy departure from the chiavari chair. Adding the right amount of rustic authenticity and vintage charm, we’re confident that these chairs are here to stay.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 37
STYLE SPARK • INSPIRATION ON LOCATION
THE INVITATIONS
With a grounds history steeped in equestrian legacy, of course all things equine would inspire our celebration. Each lavender letter-pressed invitation suite from SANDI SPELLS DESIGNS perfectly pronounced the fun in store for the day. Don’t forget to BYOS -- bring your own saddle!
THE EXTRAS
When you are celebrating someone’s big day -- especially their 30th birthday, making the guest of honor feel extra special is of utmost importance. We did this for our gal in two ways: 1. Upon driving through the entrance onto the tree-lined driveway, giant white balloons from BALLOONACY gathered together with hand calligraphed CELEBRATE! ribbons from DREAMWEAVER CALLIGRAPHY hung from the welcome gates. 2. At the dinner table, our lady was seated by request in the center of the action with a garland of festive sparkling cutouts that mirrored the cocktail hour stone fireplace setting. Where is the dining room table you ask? Oh you’ll see the whole pretty pergola soon, but how about those polo fields? Wouldn’t mind sitting a spell there, either.
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STYLE SPARK • INSPIRATION ON LOCATION
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DESSERT BAR Dessert bars are hot, hot, hot for several reasons. Not only are they adorable visually, but they serve as another form of entertainment for your guests. Almost any dessert can be made into a dessert bar. Create one that is assembly style, like these s’mores or just grab n’ go like a cookie bar. The key to a dessert bar is to stick with your theme, whether it be color or product, and to make sure you have plenty of treat selections at the ready for your guests!
S’MORES
Glitter, glam and rustic charm followed us down the lawn to the covered pergola where we feasted on the most delicate of delicacies, S’MORES! Ok, so they’re more fun than fanciful, but that doesn’t mean we couldn’t dress them up for the night. We created a s’mores bar that not only allowed our friends to make their own versions of the classic treats with purple and chocolate marshmallows and balls of glittered chocolate from TASTY PASTRY; they were also able to dive into s’mores flavored cupcakes and baked s’mores served in festive mason jars. But as you very well may have guessed, all of that chocolately goodness can make one very thirsty. We remedied the problem with ice cold milk served out of miniature milk jugs from FOUR INCH FOLD, tied with chocolate brown ribbon and sipped with a purple striped straw. Divine!
Editors Note
Don’t let your eyes deceive you, this cupcake from GIGI’S CUPCAKES in Sandy Springs isn’t just flavored like s’mores on the inside. The topping you see isn’t icing, but rather a delicious whipped marshmallow topping, complete with graham cracker crumbs!
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 41
STYLE SPARK • INSPIRATION ON LOCATION
GLAM S'MORE STICKS
We created these too cute s’mores skewers using $1 extendable forks from Target. To hide the handles that were less than chic, we covered them using inexpensive burlap and color coordinating glitter ribbon to match the setting. Voila! Custom, creative and so-much-better-than-a-stick s’mores skewers! Birthday girl approved.
FIRESIDE FINALE For the grand finale, we sent our birthday girl out in style with a beautiful dinner on the Foxhall pergola. An inside-meets-great-outdoors estate table allowed us to seat our guests in a comfortable but elegant way. Of course, the setting had to be fairly dramatic. We chose more deep purple linens from CONNIE DUGLIN LINENS, delicate stemware from EVENT RENTALS UNLIMITED and lush, natural centerpieces to complete the look. With a view of the polo fields and her close friends, this last stop was the best yet. There is nothing like celebrating the special occasions in our lives with the people that we love the most, in an environment that is as lovely as the very moment you’re making memories of. Foxhall is, without a doubt, just that place. As we sit down to this beautiful table to enjoy the birthday of a special friend, we’re so glad you joined us, and we’re honored to call you one more.
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STYLE SPARK • SHOP THE SHOOT
SHOP THE SHOOT
Editors Note
We literally jumped up and down when BOLD AMERICAN EVENTS brought out the pergola centerpieces. Curious what they used? The loose and romantic arrangement in shades of dusty lavender, burgundy and purple were accented with guinea feathers and glittered pinecones in a reclaimed wood bowl featuring protea, antique hydrangea, poms, asclepias, carnations, and camellia foliage. Or, what we like to call fierce florals!
1 6
3
5 4 2
Get it Here
1- Letterpress Invitation Suite and Drink Tags: SPELL PRESS by Sandi Spells Design 2 - Grape Satin and Copper Crinkle Taffeta Linen: CONNIE DUGLIN LINENS 3- Tuscan Cafe Chairs: CLASSIC PARTY RENTALS 4 - Purple Stripe Straws: SHOP SWEET LULU 5 - Glass Copper Charger, Ivory China and Glassware: EVENT RENTALS UNLIMITED 6 - S’mores Cupcakes: GIGI’S CUPCAKES SANDY SPRINGS
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STYLE SPARK • PALETTE PERSPECTIVES
ERICA PREWETT • A BIG TO DO EVENT Photographed by David Christensen Photography IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT DETAILS HAVE YOU INCLUDED THAT TRULY MAKE YOUR DESIGN UNIQUE? I definitely think the old farm table and mismatched antique chairs along with the beautiful backdrop are a part of what make this design unique. However I think it’s our ability to see and use regular home products in an upside down sort of way that makes this table supremely unique. For example, the centerpiece was comprised of a pillar candle holder (similar to what you would see on your mantle at home) turned upside down with a gold bowl on top which held the centerpiece. Another unique thing we did to tie in the color scheme was to use the under side of the napkin and wrap the dinner plate.
RUSTIC GLAM HERITAGE WHAT WOULD WE BE THE MOST SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESIGN? You might be surprised to know that all of the gold candle holders and gold goblets were purchased at Goodwill. You may also be surprised to know that the table inspiration stemmed from a trip to Home Depot where I found the succulents. Also the design would not have been complete without the perfect backdrop, so to achieve that I found the barn I wanted in the shot, drove up to the homeowners door, knocked and asked to use their property. They were happy to showcase the family barn the patriarch built in 1942.
STYLE SOURCE Concept and Design: A BIG TO DO EVENT; Photography: DAVID CHRISTENSEN PHOTOGRAPHY; Floral: AESTHETIC FLORAL AND EVENT ARTISTRY; Stationery: FOGLIO PRESS; Tables and Chairs: SOMETHING BORROWED VINTAGE RENTALS; China: EVENT RENTALS UNLIMITED; Linens: CHAIR COVERS AND LINENS; Glassware: FINEST EVENT RENTALS
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STYLE SPARK • PALETTE PERSPECTIVES
KATIE LOYD • BOUKATES Photographed by Christine Gallagher Photography IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT DETAILS HAVE YOU INCLUDED THAT TRULY MAKE YOUR DESIGN UNIQUE? The eye-catching purple chiavari chairs that we spray painted for the shoot, the fanciful linens, and the eclectic floral centerpiece with wild blackberries and champagne grapes make this a one-of-a-kind table that I would love to sit down to.
ELEGANT APPROACHABLE FUN WHAT WOULD WE BE THE MOST SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESIGN? Even with a particular color scheme, a good deal of what I used to set the table I already had at home. The crystal, the flatware, the bronze vessel for the centerpiece, and some of the flora and fauna for the arrangements. New uses for old things are what gives any occasion a personal touch. Sometimes you just have to think outside the vase.
STYLE SOURCE Concept and Floral Design: BOUKATES; Photography: CHRISTINE GALLAGHER PHOTOGRAPHY; Linens: I DO LINENS; Cake: LUSH CAKERY; Chair Pads: EVENT RENTALS UNLIMITED; Menus: Custom Design by ASHLEY LOYD
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Photo by Project Duo Photography The go-to-place for
wedding design ideas and
planning advice.
1000 Marietta Street NW, Suite 124 | Atlanta, Georgia 30318 404.879.0074 | www.studiowed.net/atlanta | michelle@studiowed.net atlanta • asheville • nashville • denver
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STYLE SPARK • PALETTE PERSPECTIVE
STEFANIE DUNN• THE WEDDING BOX Photographed by Kristy Dickerson Photography IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT DETAILS HAVE YOU INCLUDED THAT TRULY MAKE YOUR DESIGN UNIQUE? To make our vintage table unique, we starting by covering our chair backs in moss instead of traditional linens, tied them with strips of burlap and accented them with natural foliage. At each place setting napkins were wrapped in coordinating fabric bands and vintage cameos that furthered the romantic, vintage feel. As for the table decoration, antique medicine bottles contained miniature floral arrangements and brass candle sticks lit up the table. An organic and plush use of vegetable and flora in the centerpieces was fun and is an unexpected touch. Lastly, orchids and hydrangeas created a soft (and fragrant!) ambiance hanging from the lanterns overhead.
ROMANTIC ENGAGING FRESH WHAT WOULD WE BE THE MOST SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESIGN? We mixed in elegant vintage finds, as well items from our own personal collections to create a distinctive experience for guests. Using things that are meaningful to you and representative of your style, gives your guests a glimpse into more of who you are and creates a special ambiance only you can provide.
STYLE SOURCE Concept and Design: THE WEDDING BOX EVENTS; Photography: KRISTY DICKERSON PHOTOGRAPHY; Floral Design: EDGE DESIGN; Stationery: YELLOW BRICK GRAPHICS; Napkins: GRACEFUL TABLES; Farm Table: LOUNGE ART RENTALS, Rentals: EVENT RENTALS UNLIMITED; Wedding Cake: SWEET SENSATIONS, Location: BARNSLEY GARDENS
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VENUE GUIDE What type of Occasion do you Envision?
IN THE FOLLOWING PAGES YOU’LL DISCOVER 30+ OF ATLANTA’S MOST SOUGHT AFTER SPECIAL EVENT VENUES
Designed to help you get even more out of our Venue Guide, we’re introducing eight new VENUE TYPE ICONS that will help you easily identify and navigate your way through the many venues we’re dying to show you. Hotel, Mansion, Art Museum, Country Club and more, you want it and we’ve got it. Take a look!
Plus you can narrow your search by type and specialties and find several more properties online OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 53
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
GETTING STARTED
WHAT TYPE OF OCCASION DO YOU ENVISION? IT ALL STARTS WITH YOUR VENUE. In a city like Atlanta, the options are limitless. There are appropriate facilities for parties of all sizes, but when you’re choosing the perfect spot for your next event, all of those options can be overwhelming. The size of the crowd will narrow down your choices, but then there are still numerous types of venues to consider. Whatever your particular tastes, when the time comes to throw your special occasion, make sure you know what to look for in a venue before you book.
CONFERENCE CENTERS & FUNCTION FACILITIES What makes them so special? A banquet hall, conference center or function facility is often an excellent choice for an event because this venue type offers cost-efficient and hassle-free packages. They were designed with big occasions in mind, so they will have workable layouts, which will translate into easy food and beverage flow. They are also likely to already have tons of wedding and special event experience, making their site coordinators invaluable resources at your disposal.
COBB GALLERIA CENTRE
Things to remember: Function facilities may host multiple events per day, affecting your starting and ending times. Make sure you and your planner work out your timeline and don’t feel crunched. Often you can book a large block of time (say 10 hours) to avoid feeling squeezed in by another event. Another thing to think about is that a function facility’s ambiance may allow for more accoutrements/florals/imagination to make it your own. Consider it a blank canvas that you can mold into your own personal masterpiece.
PLUS :: These type of venues are designed with big occasions in mind, so they will have workable layouts.
FUNCTION FACILITY
COUNTRY CLUBS What makes them so special? Country clubs can be excellent venues because of the extra activities they may offer, like golf and tennis. Country clubs also host events frequently and have experienced staff members who are accustomed to dealing with large groups. The interiors of country clubs will vary, but the grounds will be beautiful and may include lakes, golf courses, gardens or marinas. ST IVES COUNTRY CLUB
PLUS :: These type of venues can be excellent venues because of the extra activities they may offer.
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Things to remember: Facilities at a country club are not completely private for your event (members will most likely still be on site), and your food options may be more limited than at a restaurant. That said, the food that is offered will be of high quality. Because country clubs regularly accommodate small to large events, they are adept at catering to a crowd. Also keep in mind that you may have to be sponsored by a member to host your event at a country club.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE HOTELS & RESORTS What makes them so special? Hotels and resorts can be fabulous for events because they have onsite accommodations and added amenities like shuttles, spas, restaurants, concierge service, etc. You can choose a hotel for its close proximity to an airport and/or particular destination. Also, hotels may have low or no rental fees for venue space if you book a block of guest rooms. Things to remember: Hotels and resorts often host multiple events at once. Remember to talk to the on-site events manager about how they separate, staff and manage each event. Will you be right next to one another? Will you be able to hear another party’s music? How does the hotel catering handle multiple events at once? Venues like this are experienced in this area and should have knowledgeable responses to all of your inquiries. Also note that should more than one event be taking place at a hotel or resort there will be a high rate of guest room reservations. Make sure that your secure a block of hotel rooms early and let your guests know how and when to take advantage of the group rate.
W ATLANTA - BUCKHEAD
PLUS :: Providing everything you could possibly need in one location, these venues make things super easy for you and your guests.
HISTORIC & ANTEBELLUM MANSIONS What makes them so special? Mansions, antebellum homes and historic houses have impressive architecture, historical significance and manicured grounds, providing distinctive (and memorable) settings. Things to remember: One thing to consider at these venues is space. If there is no large ballroom, parties may have to be split into smaller rooms or take place outside. There may be special restrictions to ensure the care of these sacred spots. These venues are often in gorgeous but secluded locations, so consider transportation, accommodation and ease of access by your guests.
PLUS :: These venues tend to host one event at a time, giving you maximum privacy.
THE HAZLEHURST HOUSE
URBAN SETTINGS What makes them so special? Whether you choose an old warehouse or a spanking new rooftop space overlooking downtown, entertaining in the city is made fresh again when you carve an occasion out of a distinctive urban setting. Elegantly aged train depots, wall-to-wall glass venues, city views and clubs perched atop skyscrapers can serve as your perfect event space, offering an original citified backdrop. Things to remember: Research your setting thoroughly. Consider any traffic issues that might arise from the location or specific date because large sporting events, markets or festivals can cause significant traffic challenges. Know where guests can park and make sure it’s easy for them to get from parking to venue and back again.
SUMMEROUR
PLUS :: At urban venues, the place itself is visually intriguing and gives guests something to gush about.
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VENUE GUIDE MUSEUMS & THE ARTS What makes them so special? Libraries and museums have distinctive architecture and cultural ambiance. They may even have exhibitions on display that can add another element of entertainment to your event. Things to remember: Libraries and museums are open to the public, which means they potentially have particular rules and hours of operation. Know the red tape before choosing this type of venue, and remember that less coordination assistance may be at your disposal at libraries and museums than at other venues. Your guests won’t soon forget these settings, but you will want to hire a professional planner to help with the details.
PLUS :: These type of venues have distinctive architecture and cultural ambiance.
THE SWAN HOUSE AT ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
PUBLIC PARKS & GARDENS What makes them so special? Events at public parks, gardens and beaches solve decorating dilemmas by allowing the manicured landscape and Mother Nature do the work. A natural setting like one of these can be a lovely complement to a relaxed event.
THE ATRIUM
Things to remember: Required permits and other restrictions may apply at these venues. Along with Mother Nature’s wonderful touch come outdoor obstacles like insects, temperature, noises, allergens, dirt and mud. A backup plan including lighting, music, seating, space, etc. will be a must in case of inclement weather. We’re talking about the great outdoors, so remember that everything will likely have to be rented – from tables and chairs to portable restrooms and dance floors.
PLUS :: Outdoor locations often solve decorating dilemmas by allowing the manicured landscape and Mother Nature do the work.
BALLROOMS What makes them special? Ideal for an elegant sit-down gala, benefit, awards ceremony, or for live entertainment, ballrooms were created for bashes. They are specifically designed to run smoothly while a large crowd is gathered. Things to remember: Where there are ballrooms, there may be other ballrooms, which could mean that it’s important to book blocks of hotel rooms sooner rather than later to ensure your guests have a place to stay. Ballrooms tend to be one-stop entertaining shops, but with an all-inclusive package and experienced staff may come a budgetary premium.
PLUS :: They also come staffed with experienced planners, caterers and servers who know what they’re doing, do it often and on a large scale.
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103 WEST
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
making sense of the
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
VENUE GUIDE
BUCK BUCKheAD
ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
We make finding venues easy-breezy. There are many details to consider when choosing an event venue. To simplify the search for a party location, we’ve compiled a directory of our venue partners and have outlined the very details you’ll need to decide which venue is right for you.
FEATURES
Centrally located on 33 acres in the beautiful neighborhood of Buckhead, the Atlanta History Center features historic houses, gardens, event spaces, and award-winning exhibitions. With venues for small daytime corporate meetings to intimate weddings, to 500-person galas, the Atlanta History Center offers the widest variety of special event options at one location. The Grand Overlook’s simple elegance makes it one of the most sought after venues in Atlanta. Featuring a barrel vaulted ceiling, Brazilian cherry-wood floors and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the magnificent wooded Quarry Garden, the Grand Overlook is as versatile as it is breathtaking. Let beauty and serenity set the scene for your event in the glorious Swan House Gardens. Outdoor gatherings at this iconic 1928 mansion with stately columns rise to unforgettable heights on a private lawn with majestic cascading fountains and the beautiful boxwood garden. For a one-of-a-kind experience, host your event in the Atlanta History Museum where guests can explore history through our permanent award-winning and intriguing changing exhibitions. McElreath Hall is one of our most versatile spaces, containing a 400-person auditorium for seminars, a sky-lit atrium for pre-event functions and a boutique ballroom overlooking beautiful wooded gardens. Woodruff Auditorium and Members Room are rented separately during the day or can be combined with the adjoining atrium for an entertaining evening function. For down-home country appeal, the Tullie Smith Farm is unrivaled. Our 1860s farmhouse, outbuildings and period gardens give your event a remarkably rustic and charming allure in the heart of bustling Buckhead.
details you’ll need to know...
Part of town ‘At A Glance’ section outlines details like catering options, parking, amenities and special features
CONTACT 130 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 814-4090 www.aTlanTahiSTorycenTer.com www.a www.aT lanTahi T Tahi STorycenTer.com
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# oF even evenT SpaceS: capaciTy:
Approved catering list Limited tables & chairs, event manager and security parking: Limited free parking Special FeaTureS: Lush gardens and majestic woodlands surround the ultimate unique Atlanta venue that includes the renowned Swan House lawns and Grand Overlook Ballroom located in the heart of Buckhead. caTering: includeS:
SCAN here FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
SpecialevenTS@aT @a lanTahi @aT T Tahi STorycenTer.com SpecialevenTS@aTlanTahiSTorycenTer.com
Contact info, website, email, PLUS quick access to more pictures, video, reviews and inquiry forms with the QR code.
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Rockdale
oll
c Clayton Coweta
Fayette
x i k
Newton Henry
Jasper
Butts Spalding FIND A VENUE NEAR YOU. The Occasions Magazine venue guide is designed to make
u VENUE MAP
finding your event venue the easiest part of your journey. In the following pages you’ll find country clubs, function facilities, hotels, historic homes and more locations. Keep an eye out for the icons to help you identify the venue type you’re looking for.
Troup
Meriwether
58 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
Pike
Lamar
Jon
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
u 103 West
1
u Forsyth Conference Center 22
u 1420 Room
2
u Foundry at Puritan Mill
23
u Alpharetta Athletic Club
3
u Georgian Terrace
24
u Atlanta History Center
4
u The Gardens at
u Atlanta National
5
Kennesaw Mountain
25
u Gateway Marriott
26
u Hazlehurst House
27
u Little Gardens
28
u Marriott Marquis
29
u Mason Murer
30
10
u Merle Manders
31
u The Buckhead Club
11
u The Morrow Center
32
u The Buckhead Theatre
12
u Biltmore Ballrooms
13
u The Atrium u Atlanta Botanical Garden
6 7
u Bear’s Best
8
u Berkeley Hills
9
u Bradford House
& Gardens
u Olde Towne Athletic Club 33 u Peachtree Club
34
u Piedmont Room
35
14
u Primrose Cottage
36
15
u Ravinia Club
37
u Country Club of the South 16
u Renaissance Midtown
38
u Eagles Landing
u Renaissance Waverly
39
u Summerour
40
u Cobb Galleria Centre/Cobb
Energy Centre u The Commerce Club
Country Club
17
u Fernbank Museum
of Natural History
18
u St. Ives Country Club
41
u Flint Hill
19
u Vecoma
42
u Foxhall Resort
20
u Ventanas
43
u The Fox Theatre
21
u W Buckhead
44
u REHEARSAL DINNER and private dining locations too!
Beginning on page 108 you’ll find venues of a small, yet mighty kind. Perfect for intimate occasions and dinner parties too.
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
JOHNS CREEK
COUNTRY CLUB OF THE SOUTH
Once I stepped foot into the Traditions Ballroom at Country Club of the South, I knew ‘this is it.’ Not only the overall appearance of the club met my expectations, but the staff was very professional and went above and beyond.
- Kylie Roger
Quietly nestled among lush pines, rolling hills, and sparkling streams lies perhaps the most beautiful wedding site in all of Georgia, The Country Club of the South. The three level stone and cedar clubhouse sets the stage for an unmatched experience of warmth and genuine southern hospitality. With the clubs magnificent ballroom, beautiful patio overlooking the 18th green, and a four-bedroom guest villa it’s no wonder that The Country Club of the South is the new favorite choice of couples in search of the perfect wedding. From an elegant seated dinner to a grilled feast on the terrace, you will experience award-winning cuisine under the close supervision of the Club’s acclaimed chef. You can also plan your rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or engagement party in one of the club’s five elegant private dining rooms. In addition to the world–class cuisine and beautiful lodge-like surroundings, you will also experience the ultimate in service-attention paid to your every need. Whether your style is traditional or unique, The Club’s professionals will bring your dream to life. From the first planning consultation to the creation of your one-of–a-kind wedding, you will have a team of talented personal “assistants” at your side every step of the way.
CONTACT 4100 Old Alabama Road Johns Creek, GA 30022
(678) 297-5951 WWW.THECOUNTRYCLUBOFTHESOUTH.COM BRITNEY.MILAM@OURCLUB.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
55,000 10 10 - 500
Onsite catering provided by award winning chef, custom designed menus including organic and vegan INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, glassware, silverware, setup & breakdown, service staff PARKING: Complimentary Parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Outdoor and indoor ceremony sites, exquisite lodge style clubhouse with stone fireplace, golf course view, onsite 4 bedroom, 4 and a half bath, villa for fine lodging, outside terrace for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres CATERING:
COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
Photography by Duane Store, Kristen Alexander Photographer, and Allen Gunn Studios
All the guests had a wonderful time and are still admiring the delicious food and an amazing staff who made it all happen.
- Anna Meehan
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
SOUTH ATLANTA
MERLE MANDERS CONFERENCE CENTER
“Merle Manders Conference Center was the perfect place for our wedding. The staff was very helpful and did everything they could to make our day as special as we hoped it would be. The fireplace is beautiful and was a great focal point for our winter wedding.”
- Cheryl Barker
Looking for the perfect meeting or event venue comfortably south of Atlanta? Merle Manders Conference Center is classy and sophisticated enough for a formal affair, yet cozy and relaxed enough for a fun, laid back type of atmosphere. Whether you host your corporate meeting, conference, wedding, reception or special event at MMCC, you can be rest assured that it will be a special event to remember. The impressive conference center is adjacent to the beautiful and serene Clark Park, which is a city park that has a flowing creek, over 2 miles of walking trails and 2 pavilions. The center has over 14,000 square feet of meeting space, with a 6,000 square-foot fully carpeted ballroom complete with a huge stone fireplace, 30 foot peaked wood ceiling, beautiful chandeliers with several lighting options and a variety of setup options. There are also 5 additional meeting rooms on the lower level that are used for corporate and private functions. A large, usable balcony overlooks the park from the ballroom, while a large patio area provides additional outdoor space on the lower level. The center also has a private bride’s room and ample free parking. We provide competitive pricing for both corporate meetings and private events. We can make your planning easy by either offering complete meeting, event and bridal packages or we can allow you to pick and choose from our item menu and/or let you handle your own items to save on your budget. Merle Manders Conference Center also manages the 2,000 square feet of meeting space at the new Stockbridge Community Center.
CONTACT 111 Davis Road Stockbridge, GA 30281
(770) 389-5982 WWW.MMCCEVENTS.COM MROBERTS@CITYOFSTOCKBRIDGE-GA.GOV
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VENUE GUIDE
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
16,000 6 20 - 300
Choose from preferred caterers INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, bridal suite PARKING: Complimentary free parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Beautiful nature like setting viewed from our large covered veranda. Large windows allow natural light for daytime events and spectacular chandeliers for an evening glow. Stone fireplace from floor to ceiling. Only 20 minutes south of the airport and easily accessible from I-75, I-285 and I-675. CATERING:
Photography by Randall Granier Photography (www.randallgranier..com) Linens by Sit’n Pretty Chairs Covers & Linens (www.sitnprettychairs.com) Floral by Eagles Landing Floral Design (www.eagleslandingfloral.com)
“Everything was so perfect and beautiful, I almost cried when I saw my bride walking down the aisle.” FUNCTION FACILITY
BALLROO M
–Andy Lassiter
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
BUCKHEAD
103 WEST
Main photo by Wittmayer Photography
No address in prestigious Buckhead is more synonymous with unforgettable events than 103 West. Newly renovated, the elegant, classically modern venue is Atlanta’s premier event space. Big enough for a gala of 400 but intimate enough for a small gathering of 20, 103 West offers sophisticated warmth ideal for any occasion. Featuring exceptional Continental cuisine from worldclass chefs, 103 West excels in creating a dining experience that reflects your personal style in ways that will leave you and your guests with lasting memories. Each of the main spaces at 103 West is connected by pre-function areas that wow guests from the first glimpse to the last goodbye with elegant lounge furniture, draped walls and chic accents. The Club Room, which welcomes guests with white floor-to-ceiling wainscoting accented by antique mirrors, is perfect for bridal luncheons or corporate events for up to 40 guests. The Buckhead Ballroom is bright and contemporary, with three elaborate crystal chandeliers, neutral fabric covered walls and four architectural columns. The Buckhead Ballroom can accommodate 150 seated guests around the custom black and white checkered dance floor or up to 250 guest reception style. At 4,500 square feet, the Grand Ballroom is the largest event space at 103 West, featuring a 15-foot vaulted ceiling in the entry way, mirrored ceilings, arched windows and six magnificent crystal chandeliers. The Grand Ballroom’s white tufted walls are the perfect backdrop for a party of up to 250 guests for dinner and dancing on the custom dance floor. For larger events, the entire facility can be used to create a grand event offering a variety of guest experiences.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
103 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30305
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 233-5993 WWW.103WEST.COM ASK103WEST@BUCKHEADRESTAURANTS.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY
8,000 5 400
Onsite Catering & Pastry Chef INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linen, glassware, china, silverware, floral bud vases, votives, accent mirrors, house cocktail music and Baby Grand Pianos. Courtesy guest wireless and coat check. PARKING: Valet SPECIAL FEATURES: Newly renovated, stylish sophisticated decor. Located in Atlanta’s most prestigous neighborhood. Preferred guest rates available for Buckhead’s finest hotels. Part of the award-winning Buckhead Life Restaurant Group. CATERING:
FUNCTION FACILITY
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DUNWOODY
VENUE GUIDE
1420 ROOM
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
6,000 2 350
Onsite award winning catering company, A Divine Event Catering, serving locally inspired and internationally influenced cuisine. INCLUDES: Dance floor, staging, chairs, tables, in-house audio and video and bridal changing suite PARKING: Onsite complimentary parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Bridal suite, lounge with Brazilian hardwood floors, granite bar, crystal chandeliers, Corinthian columns, convenient to Perimeter Mall and major highways. CATERING:
Located in the heart of Dunwoody, this prestigious venue offers a grand 4,000 square foot ballroom setting complete with an impressive colonnade of Corinthian columns gracing the perimeter walls, crystal chandeliers, dance floor, staging, and state of the art audio/visual technology with a dropdown screen. Along with the ballroom, guests also have access to a 2,000 square foot Lounge area with its long, sleek bar, Brazilian hardwood floors, plasma screen television, black leather sectional offering a cozy nook for intimate conversations, and an outside garden patio for al fresco dining. The outside garden patio offers another private area for guests to gather and still feel connected to the event. Smaller groups may opt to use the Lounge and patio area only – perfect for networking events or rehearsal dinners. The 1420 ROOM has an easy flow and warm ambiance that can be transformed to accommodate a range of styles and events. Enjoy the club-like environment of the space or create your own utilizing the different rooms offering a variety of backdrops for theme development. The 1420 Room also presents a unique option for brides seeking a more urban experience. From the festive entrance guests gather in the Lounge and Garden Patio until the appointed time. As the double doors open, a softly lit, beautifully set ballroom is revealed. After the ceremony, guests are invited to enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres in the lounge area while the ballroom is quickly reset for the reception.
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FUNCTION FACILITY
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CONTACT 1420 Dunwoody Village Parkway Dunwoody, GA 30338
(770) 587-9117 WWW.1420ROOM.COM SALES@1420ROOM.COM
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
ALPHARETTA
ALPHARETTA ATHLETIC CLUB
Large photo by Photo Synthesis Studio; Two small photos by The Decisive Moment.
Located in Alpharetta, minutes away from GA 400, sits the magnificent Tudor-style clubhouse of Alpharetta Athletic Club. This private country club is available for outside events and provides superb service and catering. Alpharetta Athletic Club’s East Course clubhouse features rooms beautifully appointed for a wedding ceremony, reception or private event. Guests arrive through a grand foyer complete with a baby grand piano, large southern staircase, cathedral ceiling and impressive chandelier. Proceeding to the charming bar and grille area which features stunning custom hand painted designs, guests make their way to the club’s true feature, the grand ballroom with a large stone fireplace and designer finishes including flowing drapery and Venetian plaster. This exquisite room offers a comfortable and impressive venue for events of all types. The space at AAC can stand on its own, but when you add the expansive outdoor patio overlooking the golf course, a wedding or event at Alpharetta Athletic Club is sure to impress your guests and create cherished memories for years to come. Alpharetta Athletic Club offers an on-staff experienced event coordinator that will help plan event details, as well as, be on site the day of your event. Packages and customizable catering options are available for budgets of all types. Alpharetta Athletic Club also offers golfing options, board room space including AV equipment and luncheon options for event guests.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
3430 Highway Nine North Alpharetta, GA 30004
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(770) 475-2300 X 104 WWW.ALPHARETTAAC.COM EVENTS@ALPHARETTAAC.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
28,000 2 5-250
Onsite catering INCLUDES: Dance Floor, Chairs, Tables, Linens, Glassware, Flatware, Plates, Cake Cutting Fee, Servers, Bartenders, Set up and Breakdown PARKING: 250 parking spaces, Valet available SPECIAL FEATURES: Indoor and Outdoor Space, Golf Course View, Close to hotels, restaurants and mall CATERING:
COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
VENUE GUIDE
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
10,000 14 10 - 500
Select from the best in Atlanta with our approved caterers. INCLUDES: Guests admission and use of the Garden, on-site maintenence and security. PARKING: Parking facility managed by Lanier Parking. Pre-paid and valet available. SPECIAL FEATURES: Indoor and outdoor event capabilities, beautiful gardens, conservatory housing the country’s foremost permanent orchid collection, spectacular 600 foot long Canopy walk through the trees CATERING:
Imagine sweeping beds of fragrant flowers, the panorama of the Midtown skyline and a world-class orchid center as the backdrop for your special day. Renowned plant collections, beautiful displays, continually changing seasons and spectacular exhibitions make the Atlanta Botanical Garden the most beautiful place in town to host your event. An urban oasis in Midtown, the Garden includes 30 acres of outdoor gardens, an award-winning children’s garden, the serene Storza Woods with its unique Canopy Walk, and the new innovative Edible Garden and Outdoor Kitchen. Its “gardens under glass” include the Fuqua Conservatory, an organic biosphere and home to important collections of tropical palms and conifers; and the Fuqua Orchid Center, with the foremost collection of species orchids in the United States. The staff’s conservation work includes wetland preservation and carnivorous plant bogs across the Southeast as well as endangered species of amphibians from around the world. Rental fees directly support the Garden’s mission to develop and maintain plant collections for display, education, research, conservation and enjoyment. Newly renovated Day Hall, the Garden’s premier event facility boasts a fresh color palette of soft blues and white for a tone of elegance and sophistication. Original free-form sculpted floral pendants designed by Fire Farm add a romantic glow. To be a part of this rich Atlanta history, visit www.gardenevents.org or call 404-591-1585 to schedule a consultation.
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OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 1345 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 591-1585 WWW.GARDENEVENTS.ORG MVICTORIO@ATLANTABOTANICALGARDEN.ORG
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VENUE GUIDE
BUCKHEAD
ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
Centrally located on 33 acres in the beautiful neighborhood of Buckhead, the Atlanta History Center features historic houses, gardens, event spaces, and award-winning exhibitions. With venues for small daytime corporate meetings to intimate weddings, to 500-person galas, the Atlanta History Center offers the widest variety of special event options at one location. The Grand Overlook’s simple elegance makes it one of the most sought after venues in Atlanta. Featuring a barrel vaulted ceiling, Brazilian cherry-wood floors and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the magnificent wooded Quarry Garden, the Grand Overlook is as versatile as it is breathtaking. Let beauty and serenity set the scene for your event in the glorious Swan House Gardens. Outdoor gatherings at this iconic 1928 mansion with stately columns rise to unforgettable heights on a private lawn with majestic cascading fountains and the beautiful boxwood garden. For a one-of-a-kind experience, host your event in the Atlanta History Museum where guests can explore history through our permanent award-winning and intriguing changing exhibitions. McElreath Hall is one of our most versatile spaces, containing a 400-person auditorium for seminars, a sky-lit atrium for pre-event functions and a boutique ballroom overlooking beautiful wooded gardens. Woodruff Auditorium and Members Room are rented separately during the day or can be combined with the adjoining atrium for an entertaining evening function. For down-home country appeal, the Tullie Smith Farm is unrivaled. Our 1860s farmhouse, outbuildings and period gardens give your event a remarkably rustic and charming allure in the heart of bustling Buckhead.
CONTACT 130 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 814-4090 WWW.ATLANTAHISTORYCENTER.COM/EVENTS
# OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
Approved catering list INCLUDES: Limited tables & chairs, event manager and security PARKING: Limited free parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Lush gardens and majestic woodlands surround the ultimate unique Atlanta venue that includes the renowned Swan House lawns and Grand Overlook Ballroom located in the heart of Buckhead. CATERING:
SCAN HERE FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
SPECIALEVENTS@ATLANTAHISTORYCENTER.COM
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10,000 7 10 - 2,000
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE:
OUTDOOR
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MILTON
VENUE GUIDE
ATLANTA NATIONAL GOLF CLUB
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
15,000 4 10 - 300
Onsite catering INCLUDES: Dance floor, cake cutting, chairs, white or ivory linens, wedding arbor, white folding chairs, champagne toast, tasting for booked weddings PARKING: Limited free parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Front lawn ceremony, rehearsal dinner space available, outdoor party space available, close to area hotels, view of golf course CATERING:
We invite you to consider Atlanta National Golf Club in the planning and hosting of your wedding, reception, or rehearsal dinner. Atlanta National is the perfect setting, nestled among the rolling hills of Alpharetta in North Fulton County; we offer a clubhouse overlooking a magnificient golf course and splendidly landscaped grounds. Traditional interior decor provides an elegant atmosphere for a grand reception or an intimate rehearsal dinner. Whether you are planning a small or large wedding, we can accomodate up to 300 people for your reception, rehearsal dinner, bridal luncheon or engagement party. The experienced staff at Atlanta National will coordinate everything from creating the perfect menu to cutting the cake. Whether you choose one of our wedding packages or design the menu to reflect your own taste, we will be honored to assist you in the planning of all the details. Our Executive Chef, David Guilford, will prepare dazzling culinary delights that your guests will remember long after the reception has ended. Looking for a facility for your wedding ceremony as well as the reception? Imagine exchanging vows overlooking the impressively designed golf course or outside among our beautifully landscaped grounds. Please call us at 770-442-8801 x13 to schedule an appointment for the grand tour. We look forward to working with you to plan the wedding of your dreams!
SCAN HERE FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
CONTACT 350 Tournament Players Drive Milton, GA 30004
(770) 442-8801 X13 WWW.ATLANTANATIONALGOLFCLUB.COM KKLIMKO@HERITAGEGOLFGROUP.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
NORCROSS
THE ATRIUM
Located in historic Norcross, Georgia, The Atrium is a stunning two-story glass ballroom which provides a unique backdrop for your special event. Neoclassical in style, The Atrium is a modern version of an ancient Greek temple hidden in a lush garden. The soaring columns punctuated by panels of glass allude to the grand space inside while the glass walls allow a visual connection to the outside. Inside, an intimate mezzanine level overlooks the great hall providing a private retreat with overstuffed sofas, chairs and additional guest tables. Downstairs, a larger dance floor dominates the center of the open ballroom. Imposing ornate iron chandeliers add a sense of grandeur suspended from the two story ceiling. Surrounded by views of the garden outside, two courtyards add structure to the landscape design. In the center of the upper courtyard, a three tier fountain provides an enticing focal point. Many brides choose to add floral sprays to the splashing fountain creating an unexpected outdoor centerpiece. A rose-covered arbor shelters a garden bench providing a cozy nook ideal for photographs. Stepping stones placed in a graceful curve lead to the lower courtyard designed for outdoor ceremonies. At the end of the path, a stunning Italian stone gazebo topped with an iron filigree dome wait for the bride and groom. It is here among the azaleas, hydrangeas, daylilies, gardenias, rambling vines, hostas, antique roses and wisteria that promises are made and vows are taken. In this beautiful park-like setting, even our corporate clients can’t help but stop and smell the roses.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
139 North Norcross-Tucker Road Norcross, GA 30071
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(770) 840-9821 WWW.THE-ATRIUM.COM ALISON.JOHNSON@FLINTHILL.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
4,000 1 170
CATERING: Onsite award-winning catering company, A Divine Event, serving locally inspired and internationally influed cuisine INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, flatware, dance floor, professional event planner PARKING: Complimentary parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Two-story glass ballroom, balcony overlooking the ballroom gives guests a private retreat but with visual access to the celebrations below, nestled in a lush garden, gazebo, a romantic threetiered fountain and grassy courtyards
OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
GWINNETT
VENUE GUIDE
BEAR’S BEST
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
3,175 3 175
Onsite caterer or licensed vendor INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, glassware, setup/breakdown fees, wedgewood china PARKING: Ample free parking, valet available SPECIAL FEATURES: Golf course view, located in gated community with security, located 35 minutes from Atlanta CATERING:
Located in the upscale gated community of Edinburgh, Bear’s Best is a high-end daily fee course focused on corporate entertaining, golf outings, and providing the experience of a luxurious private club at a public facility. Jack Nicklaus selected 18 holes from his more than 200 course designs worldwide and put them into one extraordinary round of golf at Bear’s Best Atlanta. Bear’s Best Atlanta creates the perfect atmosphere for golf outings, weddings, meetings and banquets. Our contemporary style banquet room features a double-sided granite buffet and a terrace with rocking chairs overlooking the golf range and offering awe-inspiring views of the sunset. Our Star Certified Servers and award winning culinary staff will meet and exceed any expectations that you or your guests may have, and provide you with the latest in menu selections and presentations. Weddings on the golf course are available for intimate events, although certain fees and restrictions do apply. We would be delighted to alleviate a great deal of stress from your hands to ensure your event goes according to plan. Our wedding packages include a variety of menu selections and may be customized to accommodate your specific needs and budget. The package also includes set-up and breakdown, skirted tables, linens, service-ware, flatware, glassware & basic centerpieces. Other options are available at an additional cost to rent. Combining quality, design, and unparalleled services, Bear’s Best Atlanta is sure to become your favorite getaway for all of your corporate and leisure gatherings.
SCAN HERE FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
CONTACT 5342 Aldeburgh Drive Suwanee, GA 30024
(678) 714-2582 WWW.BEARBEST.COM MIKE.SELK@OURCLUB.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
DULUTH
BERKELEY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
Founded in 1964, Berkeley Hills is proud of the friendly and relaxed, yet refined and comfortably elegant country club it provides its clients. The club décor is rich and warm featuring one of a kind furnishings that lend to its unique charm. The club quarters feature three private event rooms that may be used separately or combined for your private luncheon, dinner, wedding reception, or rehearsal dinner. All three rooms provide access to our covered terrace that overlook our manicured Golf Course. Enjoy your corporate golf outing on a course that was designed into a natural topography of rolling hills and natural ravines and the course’s Bermuda grass fairways that rise and fall through forests of hardwood and pine while bright white bunkers protect what are arguably the best Champion Ultradwarf Bermuda grass greens in North Georgia. Berkeley Hills is committed to providing the finest culinary experience. Our professional staff boasts both an executive chef and executive sous chef along with a professional event planner to help execute your event down to the very last detail.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
2300 Pond Road Duluth, GA 30096
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(770) 448-8353 WWW.BERKELEYHILLSCC.ORG AHOWARD@BERKELEYHILLSCC.ORG
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
6,000 3 10 - 300
Onsite catering Tables, chairs, linens, china, silverware, glassware, dancefloor PARKING: Ample free parking, valet available for additional fee SPECIAL FEATURES: Golf Course views, outdoor terrace seating, outdoor and indoor ceremony site CATERING: INCLUDES:
COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
VENUE GUIDE
BILTMORE BALLROOMS
Main image by www.drewnewman.us, Top left image by Critsey Rowe Photography, bottom left image by Wittmayer Photographers
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
17,000 2 2,000
CATERING: Preferred catering list, but outside caterers permitted with approval, on site bar service available INCLUDES: Tables, banquet chairs, stage, security, event manager PARKING: Parking garage on site, valet available SPECIAL FEATURES: Discounted Friday and Sunday rates, hardwood floors, beautifully landscaped courtyard, covered outdoor terraces, original handcrafted plaster ceilings, restored crystal chandeliers, Palladian windows, and Tennessee marble floors.
Built in 1924, The Biltmore Hotel was the focal point of Atlanta’s business and social life for almost sixty years. Once publicized as “The South’s Supreme Hotel”, The Biltmore closed its doors in 1982, following changes in ownership and years of steady decline. After sixteen years of neglect and abandonment, The Biltmore underwent a total renovation in 1999. With the renovation of The Georgian and Imperial Ballrooms, and now listed on The National Register of Historic Places, The Biltmore quickly recaptured its standing as one of the social and business epicenters of Atlanta. Featuring original handcrafted plaster relief ceilings, restored crystal chandeliers, Palladian windows, hardwood floors, and Tennessee marble floors, the special event spaces can accommodate groups from 50 to 2,000 guests.
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BALLROO M
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 817 West Peachtree Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30308
(404) 962-8704 WWW.NOVAREEVENTS.COM CHOPSON@NOVAREEVENTS.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
NORTHEAST ATLANTA
BRADFORD HOUSE & GARDENS
This charming Southern Plantation style home, nestled at the back of 7 acres of natural Georgian beauty, is the ultimate destination for your intimate, yet elegant Wedding celebration. Beautiful French doors, on either side of the fireplace, open to a covered porch, where the party can overflow to our picturesque garden. The second floor houses the bride’s and groom’s suites where they and their attendants can dress and relax while waiting for the Big Event. The house is bright and airy and the garden’s outdoor “rooms” provide serene sitting areas with a beautiful, lighted gazebo. A winding landscaped walkway leads to the 1800-square-foot covered Gazebo which will accommodate up to 200 guests. Photo opportunities abound at Bradford House and Gardens. Our award-winning venue is noted for its excellent cuisine and exemplary service. Bradford House and Gardens specializes in creating a worry-free atmosphere for the bride, ensuring she will truly enjoy her wedding day. We do this by offering a wide range of flexible packages that include a team of some of the industry’s best vendors. We also provide “a la carte” catering and services to meet any budget. We are located approximately 40 minutes from Downtown Atlanta. Just three minutes away from Atlanta’s popular Lake Resort, Lake Lanier Islands, your guests can enjoy all of the amenities this beautiful Resort has to offer, from boating to golf to family fun at the water park. The Mall of Georgia, another popular Atlanta attraction, is a mere 8 miles from our facility with over 225 of the most exciting stores in the Southeast.
CONTACT
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6648 McEver Road Flowery Branch, GA 30542
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(770) 967-7821 WWW.BRADFORDHOUSEANDGARDENS.COM DKNIGHT@BRADFORDHOUSEANDGARDENS.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
4,200 1 200
CATERING: On-site catering. Off-site caterers allowed under certain circumstances INCLUDES: Use of entire facility, chairs, tables, linens, wedding director PARKING: Complimentary paved parking for approximately 100 vehicles SPECIAL FEATURES: Indoor and outdoor weddings, covered outdoor gazebo accommodates 200 guests, all-inclusive packages, secluded, yet located 5 minutes from I-985
OUTDOOR
MANSION
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BUCKHEAD
VENUE GUIDE
THE BUCKHEAD CLUB
Main and top left images by Bob Butler, bottom left image by Sean Randall
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
7,442 9 400
Onsite catering by award winning chef. Customed designed menus with regional and global flavors INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, dance floor, glassware/silverware, votives, cake riser, AV equipment, service staff PARKING: Valet or Self on property SPECIAL FEATURES: Located on the 26th floor with unparalleled panoramic views. Surrounded by Buckhead hotels and shopping. CATERING:
Ideally located in the heart of Buckhead atop the stunning Sovereign Building at 3344 Peachtree, the Buckhead Club offers a rare blend of gourmet cuisine, impeccable service, luxurious settings and spectacular views of Buckhead and skyline of Atlanta. Our Private Event Department is here to assist you with every aspect of your planning adventure. We are a full service catering facility, offering bar service, a variety of amenity packages, and partnerships with surrounding hotels and other ClubCorp Clubs. We can assist in custom menu creation, decor arrangements, entertainment and complete theme production. The entire Club is available for your exclusive use on Saturday daytime or Sundays. Host your event in a private club setting with breathtaking views and exquisite cuisine. Reference this ad to receive a complimentary champagne toast with your event.
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URBAN
CONTACT 3344 Peachtree Rd NE, 26th Floor Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 262-2262 WWW.BUCKHEAD-CLUB.COM CONTACTUS@BUCKHEAD-CLUB.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
BUCKHEAD
THE BUCKHEAD THEATRE
Main and top right image by www.drewnewman.us, bottorm right image by Wittmayer Photographers
8,000 3 2,000
Central to Buckhead nightlife for more than 80 years, The Buckhead Theatre is steeped in the lively spirit of its history, yet fully modernized to accommodate today’s multifaceted forms of entertainment and special events. The restored Spanish-Baroque architecture of the original 1930’s movie house jewel is a seamless historical counterpoint to the updated state of the art lighting and sound system, modern catering kitchen, event space and other amenities.
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE:
Beyond the theatre’s 10-foot LED marquee, original Art Deco doorways lead from the lobby and bar lounge into the 8,000 square foot main theatre and orchestra and loge spaces. The Buckhead Theatre’s revitalized interior plan increases flexibility for a variety of events from intimate dinners and meetings to large receptions.
CATERING: Preferred List of Caterers INCLUDES: 20 - 6’ tables, 20 60” round tables, 20 - highboys or 36” round tables, 600 chairs Access to the Marquee Flat Screen Tevelvisions PARKING: Valet or Self Park Available SPECIAL FEATURES: 10’ LED marquee, green room with 3 dressing rooms and 1 bathroom, 2 loading docks, balcony seating, built in bars, flat screen TV’s
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
3110 Roswell Road Atlanta, GA 30305
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 891-6170 WWW.NOVAREEVENTS.COM KZIMMER@NOVAREEVENTS.COM
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# OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
THE ART S
FUNCTION FACILITY
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
NORTHWEST ATLANTA
VENUE GUIDE
COBB GALLERIA CENTRE & COBB ENERGY CENTRE
320,000 27 11 - 11,000
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
Exclusive, in-house catering; Kosher-style, organic and vegan cuisine are available. INCLUDES: Dance floor, tables, chairs, china, glasses, silverware, linens PARKING: 2,000 complimentary spaces at Cobb Galleria Centre, 1,000 spaces at Cobb Energy Centre SPECIAL FEATURES: Cobb Energy Centre stage, lobby and terrace available for special events; ballroom LED lights located within ceiling soffits are programmable to emit the glow of 64 different colors. CATERING:
Cobb Galleria Centre and Energy Performing Arts Centre offer a large portfolio of event spaces to suit your needs. May we suggest the John A. Williams Ballroom, a classic, elegant setting for your event, located one level above the Cobb Galleria Centre Grand Rotunda. The beautifully decorated reception area features floor-to-ceiling windows with an open-air terrace, 24-foot-high ceilings and a separate dressing room. The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre’s Kessel D. Stelling Jr. Ballroom is one of metropolitan Atlanta’s most prestigious venues for social events. Uniting to create an ambiance of radiance and warmth are the Ballroom’s rich wood finishes, embellished wall coverings and nine shimmering custom chandeliers. Nothing bespeaks “special occasion” like the majestic Cobb Energy Centre Lobby, with two grand staircases, specially designed Murano-glass chandeliers, and walls of Venetian plaster. The Lobby’s three levels can accommodate cocktail receptions and feature a view of the downtown skyline. For a truly theatrical event, consider the John A. Williams Theatre stage or the Centre’s 3,100-square-foot outdoor Terrace. For the intimate celebration, The Gallery just might be the perfect fit. With its finely appointed décor, inlaid tile floor and dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, The Gallery invites you to indulge your romantic flair in radiant, cozy surroundings. Nothing helps you set the mood and distinguish the occasion like an accomplished catering partner. Supported by state-of-the-art kitchens, the artistry of experienced culinary maestros, and the services of a crisp-and-polished wait staff, plan your special event supremely confident that the Cobb Galleria Centre and Cobb Energy Centre will be an extension of your creativity and good taste.
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FUNCTION FACILITY
BALLROO M
CONTACT Two Galleria Parkway Atlanta, Georgia 30339
(770) 955-8000 WWW.ATLANTAGALLERIAMEETINGS.COM EVENTS@COBBGALLERIA.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
DOWNTOWN ATLANTA
THE COMMERCE CLUB
The Commerce Club provides its guests with a distinguished setting conducive to business and social entertaining. The Club is located in the vibrant core of Atlanta’s downtown area in the most prestigious address in metropolitan Atlanta – the award winning One Ninety One Peachtree Tower, with sweeping views of the Atlanta Metro area. The Commerce Club has committed itself to providing the finest dining experience and most impeccable service. Whether you are planning a weekly business meeting, a special Board of Directors dinner, a large cocktail reception or even a wedding reception, the staff will assist you in every detail in planning the perfect event. While our professional Chef has created a menu of gourmet selections that highlight American and Continental regional specialties, please keep in mind that we gladly customize menus to fit your personal tastes and desires. Host a fabulous event and enjoy the fruits of your labor along with your guests. Our private event directors help with everything from food to decorations to entertainment, and our staff makes sure your event is truly memorable. No matter what the event, we’ll create the appropriate mood and take the stress out of hosting.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
191 Peachtree Street, 49th Floor Atlanta, GA 30303
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 222-0191 WWW.COMMERCECLUBATLANTA.COM CONTACTUS@COMMERCECLUBATLANTA.COM
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3,560 8 Up to 500
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
CATERING: Onsite food and beverage INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, and house linens PARKING: Ample free parking, valet available SPECIAL FEATURES: Ballroom located on the 49th floor, Incredible views of Metro Atlanta, luxurious atmosphere, crystal chandeliers, large and small private banquet space, wine room
URBAN
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
STOCKBRIDGE
VENUE GUIDE
EAGLE’S LANDING COUNTRY CLUB
Images by Belletti Photography
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY: CATERING: Onsite
10,000 6 600
caterer INCLUDES: All hardware, tables, chairs. linens, service staff, etc. PARKING: Complimentary SPECIAL FEATURES: Lakeside view of the golf course. Outdoor terrace seating. Outdoor and indoor ceremony sites. Beautiful Plantation Style Club House with interior circular staircase
Eagle’s Landing Country Club is an estately clubhouse specializing in wedding receptions, social occasions, and private events located on the southern crescent of Atlanta in the exclusive Eagle’s Landing Community. The architecture exemplifies Georgian charm and savoir-faire from its warm brick exterior and welcoming verandas to a crowning cupola that looks down on some of the most beautiful scenery and wildlife in the state. Downtown Atlanta may only be a 20-minute drive away, but the serenity of Eagle’s Landing feels like a world apart. Our Grand Ballroom can accommodate a seated affair of up to 350 guests, and an hors d’oeuvres-style reception of up to 500. The Landing will accommodate a more intimate gathering. The croquet lawn in front of our magnificent clubhouse is the perfect setting for your wedding ceremony. The challenging 27-hole championship course, designed by Tom Fazio, is the centerpiece of the Club’s outstanding facilities and provides the perfect landscape for golf outings, tournaments and group events. Our staff is committed to providing the finest food and catering service to be found in any private club. Let us create a perfect experience for a perfect day. We will set the stage for your anniversary, birthday, or graduation party as well as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, rehearsal dinners, business and holiday functions. What better way to relax and enjoy your guest’s company while you feel the genuine warmth of the South’s famous hospitality? Located 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta and close to Hartsfield International Airport, this is the perfect location to host important corporate clients and associates.
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BALLROO M
CONTACT 100 Eagle’s Landing Way Stockbridge, GA 30281
(770) 389-2000 WWW.EAGLESLANDINGCC.COM STEPHANIE.HOLDER@OURCLUB.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
ATLANTA
FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATIONAL HISTORY
True love can be hard to find, but it’s easy to fall for Fernbank Museum’s elegance, charm and unique qualities when planning your rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony or reception. Located just minutes from midtown Atlanta, Fernbank Museum of Natural History is nestled among the rolling estates and scenic landscapes of historic Druid Hills. The grand elegance of the museum’s brick facade is highlighted by the softly lit drive, illuminated pillars and enchanting dinosaur fountain. Inside, Fernbank’s neutral palette of limestone floors, light brick archways and white columns add dramatic sophistication while allowing you to personalize your decor. Meaningful personal touches, like wedding photos on the grand spiral staircase, private rehearsal dinners, and adjacent indoor and outdoor spaces on your big day, mean there’s plenty to love about Fernbank.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
767 Clifton Road Atlanta, GA 30307
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 929-6300 WWW.FERNBANKMUSEUM.ORG SPECIALEVENTS@FERNBANKMUSEUM.ORG
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
8,400 5 500
Approved caterers list INCLUDES: Access to the Dinosaur Entrance Plaza and Lobby and the Forest Terrace are included with any rental, professional event planner PARKING: Onsite complimentary parking; valet can be arranged SPECIAL FEATURES: Exclusive rentals on Saturday and Sunday evenings; Have your ceremony and reception at the same location CATERING:
FUNCTION FACILITY
THE ART S
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
HISTORIC NORCROSS
VENUE GUIDE
FLINT HILL
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
5,000 1 350
Onsite award-winning catering company, A Divine Event, serving locally inspired and internationally influed cuisine INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, flatware, dance floor, professional event planner PARKING: Onsite complimentary parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Grand Ballroom and outdoor garden rooms with ceremony locations both inside and out, exclusive use of the entire facility, grounds and gardens, along with graciously appointed bridal suite CATERING:
Flint Hill is a beautifully restored mansion located in historic Norcross, Georgia. Gracious and stately, beautifully decorated and furnished, Flint Hill embodies the warmth and intimacy of the South’s most romantic era. This 175-year old home is a unique blend of old southern charm and modern function. Built in 1835, the mansion captures the antebellum era yet is only minutes from the cosmopolitan, fast-paced city of Atlanta. Sitting atop a tree-covered hill, Flint Hill offers a breathtaking view of the ever-changing landscape. Inside, rooms flow from one to the next with cozy conversation areas tucked throughout. A spectacular large ballroom overlooking the gardens is encased by glass french doors which create walls that open to a secluded courtyard and patio. Anyone who visits Flint Hill senses that weddings are our first love. From the well appointed venue to the enchanting gardens, all are designed for the bride seeking a romantic setting to showcase her style. Although designed with the bride in mind, Flint Hill also appeals to the corporate client seeking a relaxed retreat. Amid ancient oaks, lush gardens, outdoor rooms and terraces, entertain clients or business associates in a style reminiscent of a private, home setting. Enjoy this charming scenario or, for the more adventurous, allow our award-winning team to personalize your experience with a themed event inspired by the venue itself.
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OUTDOOR
MANSION
CONTACT 539 South Peachtree Street Norcross, GA 30071
(770) 263-7669 WWW.FLINTHILL.COM ALISON.JOHNSON@FLINTHILL.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
WEST MIDTOWN
THE FOUNDRY AT PURITAN MILL
Main image by www.drewnewman.us, bottorm right image by Wittmayer Photographers, top right image by 6 of Four
The Foundry is an historic warehouse event space which was owned and operated by the Puritan Soap Company from 1921 to 1996. It has since been restored and is now a premiere venue in Atlanta for hosting both large and small events. The Foundry at Puritan Mill has a metropolitan tone with extraordinary window walls on three sides, tall original pine ceilings and exposed brick walls which can be the perfect backdrop for your event. The Foundry has the flexibility to seat up to 800 guests or can be transformed to accommodate smaller groups. Another benefit is our separate pre-function gallery space. We have an uninterrupted floor plan that can create an open environment or can easily be divided by our airy, sheer ivory curtains. Another bonus of The Foundry is our 250 parking spaces for you to use during evening events or we can bring in valet services.
CONTACT
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916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd, NW Atlanta, GA 30318
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 962-8702 WWW.NOVAREEVENTS.COM KSTHILAIRE@NOVAREEVENTS.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
12,000 2 800
List of preferred caterers INCLUDES: Seating for up to 250 guests, 160’ of cream sheer drape, 250 parking spaces, security guard and event manager PARKING: Complimentary for up to 250 cars SPECIAL FEATURES: Original wood ceilings and concrete floors that have been lovingly restored along with brick walls, windows and cream drape to soften the room CATERING:
FUNCTION FACILITY
URBAN
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
NORTH ATLANTA
VENUE GUIDE
FORSYTH CONFERENCE CENTER
Photos by Jill’s Family Photography
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
14,000 10 750
Approved caterers list available INCLUDES: Tables & chairs, setup & breakdown, standard linen, AV options, wifi, event manager PARKING: Ample free parking available SPECIAL FEATURES: Two story foyer with Italian tile and natural wood accents. Neutral colors to match any event decor. State of the art AV system available. CATERING:
The Forsyth Conference Center is the perfect location for all events north of Atlanta. Newly opened in 2010, The Forsyth Conference Center offers a versatile floor plan to host corporate meetings, expos, conferences, special events and weddings ceremonies and receptions. Located just 30 miles north of Atlanta off of GA 400, the Forsyth Conference Center is a great alternative to downtown Atlanta. Upon entry, the lobby provides an open atrium with comfortable seating areas to host cocktail receptions and receive your guests. The ballroom offers 14,000 square feet that can be divided into as many as eight separate rooms or can be customized to fit your event. An executive boardroom with an attached catering kitchen and additional classrooms offer even more space for corporate events or conferences. Our professional event management team is ready to help assist you in creating a perfect event. Our meeting planners will provide guidance in planning your event and the resources to create your custom look. We provide state of the art audio visual equipment with personnel on-site to assist with your multimedia event needs. A warming kitchen is available for approved caterers to provide you with appetizers, buffets or plated dinners. The Forsyth Conference Center provides a flexible and versatile venue to decorate, cater and customize to make it your perfect event.
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BALLROO M
CONTACT 7745 Majors Road Cumming, GA 30041
(770) 781-6974 WWW.FORSYTHCONFERENCECENTER.COM FORSYTHCONFERENCECENTER@LANIERTECH.EDU
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VENUE GUIDE
CHATTAHOOCHEE HILL COUNTRY
FOXHALL RESORT & SPORTING CLUB
Located just 35 minutes from downtown Atlanta and 20 minutes west of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Foxhall Resort & Sporting Club is an 1,100 acre sanctuary situated majestically along 2 miles of the Chattahoochee River and includes 16 lakes, over 15 miles of riding and hiking trails, a 20-stall stone stable and world-class equestrian and sporting club facilities. Wedding and special event opportunities abound on the property, including a 4,800 square foot ballroom in the Legacy Lookout Club, with sweeping views of Legacy Lake, polo fields and the river, and event lawns for another 500 guests; a 2,000 square foot glass-enclosed Grand Pavilion with full kitchen; stacked stone fireplace and patio; multiple event lawns; additional event pavilions, as well as the Boat House and Clubhouse on Lunker Lake. For intimate gatherings of just a few, to large weddings and parties for thousands, Foxhall provides a variety of views and venues to create the ideal setting for any special event. Our Wedding and Event Specialists are here to assist and serve you with the planning and details of your gathering. Choose from a variety of wedding and special event packages, or allow us to work with you to craft your own personalized menus and plans. Foxhall provides on-site culinary operations, or you may select your own caterer from our Preferred Partners. Please contact our Events Team at 770.489.4380 or via email at info@foxhallresort.com. Your most memorable event can be created at Foxhall Resort & Sporting Club.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
8000 Capps Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30135
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(770) 489-4380 WWW.FOXHALLSPORTINGCLUB.COM INFO@FOXHALLRESORT.COM
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10,000 12 5 - 50,000
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
On-site or preferred catering partners available, custom menus INCLUDES: White folding chairs for wedding ceremonies; tables and chairs for banquet functions PARKING: Unlimited complimentary parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Event lawns, lake views, polo fields and river views; lawn games; rehearsal dinners; bridesmaid and groomsman activities; ballrooms and intimate gathering areas. Close proximity to airport and area hotels. CATERING:
OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
VENUE GUIDE
THE FOX THEATRE
Top left photo by Picture This! Photography, bottom left and main photo by Drew Newman Photographers
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
11,462 3 25 - 1,100
Properly licensed and insured caterers are welcome. Discounts available with use of our preferred or featured caterer. INCLUDES: Support staff for nine consecutive hours, a uniformed police officer for the event, tables, chairs, risers, dance floor and cleaning. PARKING: Reserved parking can be arranged, payable in advance, based on availability. SPECIAL FEATURES: Historic Landmark, Marquee, Outdoor Terrace, Close to Hotels, Pictures in Theatre CATERING:
Combined with the Fox Theatre’s renowned customer service, the Landmarks Lounge will be the perfect pre- and post-show destination for that very special client. The plush environment will also accommodate private receptions for an entire evening, such as intimate dinners, wine-tastings, or any other “Arabian Night” your imagination can provide. Step back in time to the opulent splendor of the Egyptian Pharaohs or into the mystique of a Middle Eastern palace. The Egyptian Ballroom and the Grand Salon are lavishly decorated with sweeping columns and ornamentation creating the perfect setting for wedding and receptions, corporate events and association functions. From a luncheon or dinner for 50 guests, to a pre-show cocktail party, or a post-show dessert extravaganza for 1,100 guests, we have set the stage with elegance and fantasy. The Theatre, Egyptian Ballroom, Grand Salon, and Terrace have been completely renovated to their original grandeur. The Fox provides complete beverage service, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and we can suggest musicians, caterers, and other supporting cast. The Grand Salon includes the use of a beautiful outdoor terrace. Romantically lit and always enjoying a lovely breeze, the terrace provides your guests with both indoor and outdoor areas during your event. The Landmark Lounge, a 30-person hospitality suite, will provide guests with the ultimate 1929 movie palace experience. Red velvet banquets, Moroccan tiled floors and walls, gold leaf, and mosaics all envelop your guests the moment they enter.
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BALLROO M
THE ART S
CONTACT 660 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30308
(404) 881-2100 WWW.FOXTHEATRE.ORG JENNIFER@FOXTHEATRE.ORG
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VENUE GUIDE
AIRPORT
ATLANTA AIRPORT GATEWAY MARRIOTT
Host a celebration to remember at Atlanta Airport Marriott® Gateway, the event destination that connects you with everything you need to create an unforgettable experience for your guests. Whether you’re planning an elegant wedding, intimate get-together, family reunion or the social event of the year, our selection of versatile function space makes it all possible. Set the stage for a magical evening with the sparkling chandeliers and textured walls in our 12,000 square-foot Gateway Ballroom, the largest hotel ballroom in the airport area. Hold your pre- and post-event functions in our Gateway Ballroom Foyer, an ideal place to mix and mingle. Or host an event that reflects your unique sense of style with over 21,000 square-feet of flexible event space at your disposal. Allow our professional event planners to handle every detail as they help you execute the perfect themed party, banquet or family gathering. Satisfy even the most discerning palates with customized menus of exquisite cuisine from our full-service culinary team. Our Certified Wedding Planners and catering staff’s superior level of expertise and flexibility provides plenty of event options to work within your budget. Put your guests in the mood to celebrate with our accessible airport location and complimentary ATL SkyTrain transportation from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Thanks to our special group rates and packages, it’s convenient and affordable for everybody to get together. And with 403 high-tech, soundproof guest rooms; including 18 suites, there’s room for everyone on your guest list. It’s all designed to make planning easy for you, while providing an experience they won’t forget.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
2020 Convention Center Concourse Atlanta, GA 30337
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 763-1544
ATLANTAAIRPORTMARRIOTTGATEWAY.COM CASSANDRA.PIERCE@MARRIOTT.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
22,000 6 10 - 800
CATERING: Onsite catering available with customized menus, offsite catering approved for specialty events INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, dancefloor, in-house staging, white silk floral centerpieces PARKING: Valet or Self Park Available SPECIAL FEATURES: Connected to Atlanta Airport via 2 minute free ride on the ATL Skytrain, LEED certified, spacious suites, beautiful event space
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HOTEL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MARIETTA
VENUE GUIDE
GARDENS AT KENNESAW MOUNTAIN
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
3,600 5 200 - 500
Onsite: Parsley’s Catering, a certified Two Star Green Restaurant® featuring local & organic cuisine INCLUDES: Six hour use of the entire venue, garden ceremony, chiavari chairs, ivory linen, uniformed staff, soft bar PARKING: Complimentary Parking / Valet Available SPECIAL FEATURES: Nestled at the base of Historic Kennesaw Mountain, very private, beautiful garden, covered pavilion, spacious banquet hall, local and organic catering options available CATERING:
The Gardens at Kennesaw Mountain is North Atlanta’s premier wedding and event facility. Located on four idyllic acres, the venue is a unique and intimate setting perfect for your wedding reception and ceremony. Between our impeccably manicured gardens, outdoor covered pavilion and indoor ballroom, your options are endless! Sophisticated and Stylish, the Grand Ballroom is the perfect location for your wedding reception. The Grand Ballroom features: window lined walls, modern sconces, brilliant chandeliers, a large parquet dance floor and is enveloped by two manicured gardens. The Garden and Gazebo area is where we host wedding ceremonies amongst seasonal flowers and under the shade of large trees. The pavilion offers a peaceful and serene setting for any outdoor celebration, cocktail reception or quiet reflection with family and friends. The Hunt House is a charming and rustic tabby style home reminiscent of graceful old Savannah, or Charleston. Built in the late 19th century, it boasts original windows and panes, a double-hung front door, heart-of-pine flooring and two wood-burning fireplaces. The Hunt House is ideal for Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal Parties, Wine Tastings or any intimate gathering. At the Gardens, we offer wedding packages and a la carte services that can be customized for your special occasion. Please call today to see how we can make your wedding Naturally Elegant!
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OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 1127 White Cir NW Marietta , GA 30060
(770) 396-5361 WWW.GARDENSATKENNESAW.COM LAURA@PARSLEYS.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
MIDTOWN
GEORGIAN TERRACE HOTEL
Atlanta’s Modern Classic located in the heart of the city’s business and cultural district, The Georgian Terrace Hotel is a midtown icon familiar to anyone who knows Atlanta. The Georgian Terrace delivers a brand of service rarely found, even in the south. We don’t just fulfill, we anticipate needs, and with a host of new and improved amenities we aim to exceed our guest’s expectations. Once you take a look at all we have to offer, from our three classic ballrooms to our spacious penthouse suites to our award-winning catering, you’ll start to relax. A midtown icon located across the street from the Fox Theatre and minutes from public transportation and the airport, The Georgian Terrace has been the site of Atlanta celebrations since 1911. In fact, the hotel hosted one of the city’s most memorable events, the premier gala for Gone With the Wind. A modern hotel with a grand history, The Georgian Terrace is accommodating and romantic. We’re also home to Livingston Restaurant + Bar, a one-of-a-kind venue for private and semi-private dining with a kitchen admired for its fresh, innovative American cooking. Romantic, historic, artistic and fun, with wonderful architectural elements, practical amenities and bend-over-backwards service, The Georgian Terrace Hotel has it all. Planning to stay in Atlanta for your celebration or wedding? Our spacious penthouse suites are modern oases, beautifully appointed and offering great cityscapes.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
659 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 897-1991 WWW.THEGEORGIANTERRACE.COM DKICKLIGHTER@THEGEORGIANTERRACE.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
9,000 3 10 - 750
Onsite custom designed menus including organic and vegan INCLUDES: Chairs, tables, dance floors, staging PARKING: Valet or self on property SPECIAL FEATURES: Historic property, crystal chandeliers, classic charm, floor to ceiling windows, onsite rehearsal dinner venue: Livingston Restaurant CATERING:
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HOTEL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MCDONOUGH
VENUE GUIDE
THE HAZLEHURST HOUSE
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
16,000 4 50 - 250
Onsite caterer with organic and vegan options. Full alcohol license INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, chaircovers, sashes, inhouse decor, sound system PARKING: Attendant provided and valet available SPECIAL FEATURES: Beautiful courtyard and gardens, elegant ballroom, turn of century veranda, bridal and groom suite, 20 minutes from airport, convenient lodging, boutique feel CATERING:
The Hazlehurst House has found its niche in the Atlanta market by taking a historic landmark and turning it into a boutique venue perfect for any celebration! Combine the location with award winning cuisine and trademark Southern hospitality and your guests will remember your event for years to come. Set on three acres of land, abundant with magnolia, oak, and cedar trees, the historic property also includes beautiful gardens, a majestic ballroom and stately verandas that comfortably accommodate up to 250 guests. Marrying history and sophistication with modern luxury, this boutique venue makes the premier location for your next business meeting. The unique space makes for a comfortable setting, while providing all of the latest technology needed to keep your meeting flowing smoothly and professionally. The Hazlehurst House prides itself on more than a decade of satisfied customers. The award winning team of culinary, design and planning professionals behind this establishment set them apart from many. The Hazlehurst House preferred vendor list includes only the finest professionals in the business who are skilled and experienced working with our venue. Rest easy knowing you have the benefit of Atlanta’s premiere boutique venue, but you also have the benefit of an incredible team of professionals behind the scenes of your event. This makes for an excellent recipe for success!! The Hazlehurst House: where elegance meets excellence.
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OUTDOOR
MANSION
CONTACT 77 Sloan Street McDonough, GA 30253
(770) 898-0776 WWW.HAZLEHURSTHOUSE.NET FELICIA@HAZLEHURSTHOUSE.NET
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
BUCKHEAD
JW MARRIOTT ATLANTA BUCKHEAD
Indulge your guests with unparalleled luxury in the uniquely elegant setting and newly refined spaces at JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead. Inside the exclusive Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, we’ve carefully crafted a sophisticated environment, perfect for your most important occasion. From our incredible surroundings and magnificent event spaces to the breathtaking results of our $10 Million modernization and seamless, personalized service, we are singularly focused on providing everything you need for a memorable event. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, allow our professional event specialists to create an elegant banquet for up to 500 guests in our breathtaking 9,000 square-foot Phoenix Ballroom. Hold an unforgettable banquet while our innovative culinary team prepares a delectable menu tailored to your tastes. Or plan for memories that last a lifetime in our Grand Foyer with our picture-perfect Grand Staircase, a striking backdrop for a fabulous cocktail party or reception. And with award-winning service from our highly attentive staff and innovative event designs from our certified decorating experts, we ensure a flawlessly orchestrated experience, with every detail fine-tuned. Then immerse yourself in modern luxury and comfort in our 371 newly refreshed guest rooms and suites. With state-of-the-art amenities, luxurious linens, plush terry bathrobes and exquisite spaces to relax and unwind, we are confident that even the most discerning guests will find it to be a truly welcoming environment.
CONTACT
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3300 Lenox Rd. NE Atlanta, GA 30326
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 262-3344 WWW.JWMARRIOTTBUCKHEAD.COM MEGHAN.RUGER@MARRIOTT.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
18,000 5 10 - 500
Onsite catering available with customized menus, offsite catering approved for specialty events INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, dancefloor, in-house staging PARKING: Valet or self parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Luxury full service with private event space, world class shopping in walking distance, full fitness center with steam and sauna rooms, close proximity to MARTA transit system CATERING:
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HOTEL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
LAWRENCEVILLE
VENUE GUIDE
LITTLE GARDENS
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
4,500 1 300
Onsite award-winning catering company, A Divine Event, serving locally inspired and internationally influed cuisine INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, flatware, dancefloor, professional event planner PARKING: Complimentary parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Colonial style estate featuring beautifully manicured gardens, a stunning waterfall in the outdoor ceremony site, private ballroom facilities, terrace patio, and a deluxe bridal suite along with a separate groom’s suite complete with a flat screen television. CATERING:
The newest venue owned and operated by Magic Moments, Little Gardens is a colonial style home nestled in the midst of a 3-acre estate located in Lawrenceville, Georgia. Events at Little Gardens lend you exclusive use of house and grounds including serene waterfall gardens and koi pond, a spectacular ballroom for indoor receptions encased by glass doors that open to a secluded and lush garden, beautifully appointed buffets with a soft halo of light from beneath, adorned with magnificent custom floral displays, and professionally designed and impeccably manicured “garden rooms” for both grand and intimate events. Upstairs, a large bridal suite filled with overstuffed couches, a private restroom and dressing area, floor-to-ceiling-mirror, and fireplace welcomes the bride. Across the hall a groom’s room with a bar, flat screen television, and personal restroom provides the perfect retreat for the groom and his groomsmen. For the ultimate experience in at-home entertaining, Magic Moments offers customized catered events at Little Gardens allowing every client the freedom to play the gracious host. Corporate clients especially appreciate the atmosphere that Little Gardens provides. Guests are able to enjoy the warm ambiance of the house during the cocktail hour and then come together as a group in the ballroom. Because the house and grounds are so varied, the venue adapts beautifully to themed events, allowing corporate clients the flexibility to brand their events for added value. In addition, the professionally trained event planners, floral designers, and uniformed tuxedoed wait staff assures a warm and inviting experience for each guest.
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OUTDOOR
MANSION
CONTACT 3571 Lawrenceville Highway NW Lawrenceville, GA 30044
(770) 923-3434 WWW.LITTLEGARDENS.COM KRISTIN.MINTZ@LITTLEGARDENS.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
BUCKHEAD
MASON MURER
Mason Murer Fine Art is a gallery and special event space located near Midtown and Buckhead in Atlanta, Georgia, representing emerging and established artists from around the United States and the world. In May 2004, Atlanta art entrepreneur Mark Mason Karlson and real estate developer Glenn Murer joined forces to form Mason Murer Fine Art, Inc. Situated in a 24,000 square foot AIA Award winning space, Mason Murer Fine Art offers a variety of high quality contemporary art from regional, national and international artists. An art destination, Mason Murer can offer a number of distinct art experiences in a single visit. Mason Murer is Atlanta’s largest Art Gallery space and is also a leading venue for special events, corporate parties, social gatherings, charity galas and weddings. Mason Murer Fine Art allows for outside alcohol to be provided by you or a caterer of your choice. The main gallery space can comfortably seat 350 people with a stage and dance floor but is capable of maintaining an intimate feel for smaller groups as well. The entire use of the gallery has a capacity of 1,000 mingling. Gallery parking spaces are available, as is street parking. Nestled conveniently between Buckhead and Midtown, Mason Murer Fine Art is the only contemporary Atlanta art gallery of its kind and is a unique space for your upcoming event. Our sleek, expansive gallery space makes us ideal for weddings, corporate gatherings, galas, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, auctions, fashion shows and holiday parties. Come in and visit us today!
CONTACT
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199 Armour Drive Atlanta, GA 30321
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 879-1500 WWW.MASONMURER.COM ASHLEY@MASONMURER.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
24,000 1 300 - 800
CATERING: Client chosen licensed caterer INCLUDES: Most tables and chairs (please see website for inventory), security and cleaning PARKING: Ample free parking, valet available for additional fee SPECIAL FEATURES: Elegant, chic contemporary Fine Art Gallery in the heart of Atlanta. Client’s own alcohol permitted with a licensed server. Separate spaces for a wedding and a subsequent reception. Perfect lay out for a Bar/Bat Mitzvah
FUNCTION FACILITY
THE ART S
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DOWNTOWN
VENUE GUIDE
ATLANTA MARRIOTT MARQUIS
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
160,000 10 2,500
CATERING: Catering onsite, custom designed menus INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, flatware, china, stemware, votive candles, dance floor, staging PARKING: Valet parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Three beautiful ballrooms, 50 story breathtaking atrium, The Spa, 24 hour Fitness Center, indoor/outdoor pool and terrace, amazing skyline views
Make your next occasion truly special, and give your guests an experience they won’t forget at the stylish Atlanta Marriott® Marquis. With flexible, customizable spaces to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect backdrop, no matter what your event. From weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, fundraisers, social events and more, our event areas provide options and intimacy. Three elegant ballrooms, each offer a unique design, gorgeous décor and flexible pre-function spaces to add to the experience. The breathtaking Marquis atrium is marked by the 50-foot color changing sail of Pulse, a classically cool cocktail lounge and centerpiece of the hotel. Dining reaches new heights at Sear specializing in fire-inspired steak, seafood and even desserts. Sear private dining rooms are also available. High Velocity, the next generation Sports Bar offers a semi private media room and glass enclosed Sweetwater lounge. If you’re looking for a unique event, Pulse Loft provides spectacular views of the hotel atrium. The 10th floor Skyline level boasts amazing skyline and atrium views. The outside poolside terrace complete with cabana and bar is another great option. Make a day of pampering and blissful indulgences part of the event with our full-service Spa. And don’t forget the guest rooms and suites, which offer incredible views and plenty of space for out-oftown guests, smaller gatherings or a place to get some rest after a day or evening socializing. It’s everything you need for a memorable and flawless event, in the heart of Atlanta, at the Atlanta Marriott® Marquis.
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HOTEL
CONTACT 265 Peachtree Center Avenue Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 586-6079 WWW.ATLANTAMARQUIS.COM LAUREN.M.SIMMONS@MARRIOTT.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
MORROW
THE MORROW CENTER
The Morrow Center is Georgia’s newest conference center. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta and 10 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, The Morrow Center is poised to create your event with affordable elegance. The Morrow Center’s 28,000 sq ft of flexible event space is built to the International Association of Conference Center and Marriott standards to accommodate every social and business need. We will provide complete concierge service throughout your entire event and we have the flexibility to work within your budget without compromising your imagination. Event planning options range from the guest supplying their own amenities to a total care package coordinated fully by our team. Guests of The Morrow Center enjoy a host of event amenities including 4,700 sq. ft. ballroommultiple floor plans, hardwood stage for ceremony & dance, state-of-the-art audio sound system, full 120” screen & LCD presentations, movable hardwood dance floor, 18” high ceilings, 2 large (2,000+ sq. ft.) reception areas, rehearsal dining built-in induction buffet, complimentary wi-fi and 500+ parking spaces, coat room and main desk concierge, wedding planner on staff, and full bar options. Such a variety of planning options make the Morrow Center a smart choice for any budget. The Morrow Center appreciates the importance of quality and service and understands that food and beverage selections can greatly impact the success of any event. You will find only the highest quality and finest selections for food and beverage through the Morrow Center’s preferred list of caterers. We are conveniently located 1 mile off of I-75 (exit 233) next to Southlake Mall.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
1180 Southlake Circle, Ste. 100 Morrow, GA 30260
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(678) 489-5161 WWW.MORROWCENTER.COM SSULLIVAN@CITYOFMORROW.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
28,000 8 600
CATERING: Choose from our preferred caterers list INCLUDES: Tables, Chairs, inhouse sound system, Built in 334 sq. ft. Hardwood Stage, Wi-Fi, Coat Room & Concierge Service PARKING: Onsite complimentary parking, valet parking optional SPECIAL FEATURES: Dining Lounge with built in Induction Buffet, Designer Axminster Belgium Carpet, Built in 120” Drop down Screen and LCD Projector, Brazilian Firewood Marble
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MARIETTA
VENUE GUIDE
OLDE TOWNE ATHLETIC CLUB
Main photo by Andrea Taylor Studio
6,000 1 Up to 500
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE:
Celebrate the most important day in your life at Olde Towne Athletic Club!
# OF EVENT SPACES:
The highlight of any reception is a memorable dining experience for all of your guests. Let our experienced catering staff guide you through all the planning details of your event, from the food and beverages to the hotels, flowers, music or other local vendors. Executive Chef Scott Murtha, a Culinary Institute of America graduate in Hyde Park, New York, along with our in-house culinary staff is here to provide you with a custom menu that will make your reception a first class success.
CAPACITY:
Onsite INCLUDES: Dance floor, china, glassware, and house linens PARKING: Onsite complimentary parking, valet parking optional SPECIAL FEATURES: Indoor and outdoor ceremony space, large gazebo CATERING:
We will help take the worry out of planning so you can relax and enjoy your very special event. Special Event Director Bob Cooper, who brings over 25 years of experience, will assist you in planning every detail of your wedding reception and will provide suggestions to help make your wedding day absolutely flawless. From the elegant Grand Ballroom with an outside terrace to the oversized gazebo for outdoor garden ceremonies, Olde Towne Athletic Club is truly a MUST SEE before making your venue decision. Olde Towne Athletic Club would love to have the opportunity to serve you and your guests. We will offer you the detailed attention your event deserves. Please call upon us for a tour of our facility, and the chance to make your event spectacular!
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CONTACT 4950 Olde Towne Parkway Marietta, GA 30068
(770) 578-9901 WWW.OTAC.NET BCOOPER@OTAC.NET
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VENUE GUIDE
MIDTOWN
PIEDMONT ROOM AND GARDEN TENT
Image by Jessica Horwitz
In the heart of Midtown Atlanta, with Piedmont Park as the backdrop, the Piedmont Room and Piedmont Garden Tent offer two distinctly different settings for memorable occasions. The Piedmont Garden Tent’s flowing white silk ceiling frames spectacular views of Atlanta’s Midtown skyline and Piedmont Park. Crystal chandeliers, Chinese lanterns and hundreds of flickering tea candles provide soft romantic lighting throughout the evening while a classic checkered dance floor invites guests to dance the night away. In the private Meadow reserved exclusively for Garden Tent events, the lush willow trees provide a naturally gorgeous backdrop to a ceremony or intimate cocktail reception. Located on the second floor of the building, the Piedmont Room features soaring thirty-foot ceilings and twelve foot windows overlooking the city’s largest park as well as skyline. With a backdrop alive with color both day and night, the Piedmont Room lends an air of sophistication and glamour to any event. Guests will feast on a menu designed for your event, whether it’s a southern-inspired meal featuring Shrimp & Grits Martinis and Fried Green Tomatoes or a formal, multi-course seated dinner. The choice is yours and our Executive Chef is pleased to tailor our menus to your tastes.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
500 10th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 249-0001 WWW.PIEDMONTROOM.COM LAUREN@PIEDMONTROOM.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
10,000 2 300
CATERING: Onsite, custom designed menus INCLUDES: Gold chavari chairs, variety of tables, ivory linens, tea candles, dance floor, optional staging PARKING: Complimentary self- parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Two distinct venues for outdoor and indoor events, breathtaking views and truly unique setting, convenient location with proximity to shopping, dining, and accomodations
OUTDOOR
URBAN
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
VENUE GUIDE
THE PEACHTREE CLUB
Main photo by Nadia D Photo
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
7,000 1 200
CATERING: Award winning onsite catering INCLUDES: Use of entire facility, chiavari chairs, tables, ivory linens, glassware/silverware, votives, cake riser, service staff PARKING: Self parking in secure deck SPECIAL FEATURES: Panoramic views of Midtown, Piedmont Park and Buckhead, 1700 square feet of outdoor event space, retractable awnings provide shade and relief from light rain, highest outdoor venue in the Southeast
Imagine yourself 28 stories above the heart of Midtown, outside and surrounded by the amazing Atlanta Skyline. The Peachtree Club and 28th Floor Skyline Terrace is the only rooftop venue of its kind in Atlanta. Ceremonies under the stars and receptions among the clouds create the perfect rooftop wedding and the most unique events in the city. Panoramic views from Kennesaw Mountain to Stone Mountain, spectacular sunsets, twinkling lights and cool Georgia breezes combine to create an elegant and romantic atmosphere for you and your guests. With the Club’s six private dining rooms, the main dining room, European Bar and Skyline Terrace, the event possibilities are endless. From intimate dinner parties to receptions for up to 200, The Peachtree Club is available to meet a variety of special event needs. It is a perfect location to show off Atlanta to out-of-town friends and family. The Peachtree Club event specialist can work with you in every aspect of planning and execution of your gathering to ensure everything will be as you envisioned. In addition, the Chef and his staff are highly qualified to meet your every culinary need. Sample menus are available upon request, or Chef will be pleased to tailor make your menu to create an unforgettable event. The Peachtree Club is one of Atlanta’s premier private event facilities. It is one of the few venues in the City with a skyline view of Atlanta, and the only one with outside access at skyline level. Located in the midst of many hotels, just a few blocks from Piedmont Park, and easy access to MARTA, the location could not be more ideal. The attention to detail, exceptional service and award winning cuisine sets The Peachtree Club in a class by itself.
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URBAN
BALLROO M
CONTACT 999 Peachtree Street, NE/ 28th Floor Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 817-0999 WWW.ATLANTAROOFTOPWEDDINGS.COM WCOLLINS@PEACHTREECLUB.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
HISTORIC ROSWELL
PRIMROSE COTTAGE
Primrose Cottage is a captivating antebellum mansion nestled in the heart of the historic district in Roswell, Georgia. With the addition of the new Overlook Ballroom, complete with floor to ceiling glass walls and a commanding view of terraced gardens, Primrose Cottage offers an incomparable venue for special events. In such a serene setting among ancient oaks and terraced gardens, it is hard to believe that Primrose Cottage is just minutes away from Atlanta’s major thoroughfares and international airport making Primrose easily accessible. During an event, guests enjoy the antebellum mansion exclusively including three acres of alluring gardens accentuated with subtle lighting, brick terraces, charming fountains, and arbors. Inside the three level home with a delightful double veranda overlooking the back courtyard, gracious sitting rooms entice guests to linger and savor the moment. The latest addition to Primrose Cottage, the Overlook Ballroom offers 2800 square feet of event space complimented with hardwood floors, a grand view of the ever-changing gardens, specialty mood lighting, and a custom designed ceremony niche for indoor weddings. Inside the house, the large, open connecting rooms featuring crystal chandeliers and heart-of-pine floors allow an easy flow not found in many historic homes. The charm of this historic home makes Primrose Cottage a gracious and memorable location for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners, corporate events, dinners and holiday celebrations. For the bride, Primrose Cottage captures the essence of an elegant athome wedding that places you at the center of attention.
CONTACT
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674 Mimosa Boulevard Roswell, GA 30075
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(770) 594-2299 WWW.PRIMROSECOTTAGE.COM TERI.CRATON@PRIMROSECOTTAGE.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
6,000 1 350
CATERING: Onsite award-winning catering company, A Divine Event, serving locally inspired and internationally influed cuisine INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, flatware, dancefloor, professional event planner PARKING: Onsite complimentary parking SPECIAL FEATURES: A captivating antebellum mansion nestled in the heart of the historic district in Roswell featuring the Overlook Ballroom with floor to ceiling glass walls and a commanding view of terraced gardens.
MANSION
OUTDOOR
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
VENUE GUIDE
RENAISSANCE ATLANTA MIDTOWN
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
15,000 5 375
CATERING: Onsite and ethnic catering INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, dance floor and audio visual PARKING: Valet SPECIAL FEATURES: Warm, inviting lobby complete with fireplace, stylish atmosphere, original artwork by local artists, pet-friendly policy, evening wine reception, and coffee and tea service each morning.
Give your guests the chance to experience the distinctive blend of Southern hospitality, chic sophistication and modern design at Renaissance® Atlanta Midtown Hotel. Whether you’re planning a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah, fundraiser or any social function, discover the perfect venue among our incredible indoor and outdoor spaces. Plan an intimate get-together in our stylish 570 squarefoot Alliance Room where you and your guests can step out on the gorgeous terrace for a breath of fresh air, or photos. Or invite up to 375 guests to a seated banquet in our luxuriously elegant 4,455 square-foot High Ballroom. Wherever you choose to hold your event, our creative team of event specialists will work with you to design and execute every detail. Our expert culinary staff will create personalized menus of inspiring cuisine to satisfy even the most particular taste buds. Awaken your senses with an event at Rooftop 866, our rooftop terrace bar and lounge. Featuring handcrafted cocktails and Southern-inspired dishes served in a garden-like atmosphere complete with the scent of the surrounding peach trees, private cabana seating and dramatic fire pits, this gorgeous outdoor space is a top pick among the local crowds. Or celebrate as you savor Southern inspired cooking and innovative farm-to-table cuisine at Briza, our signature restaurant featuring famed chef Janine Falvo. Perfectly located minutes from Piedmont Park, our AAA 4-Diamond rated hotel in vibrant Midtown has everything you need to make your guest list feel right at home in one of our 304 uniquely designed guest rooms and suites. It’s Southern Hospitality at its finest, in a prime location steps from the best attractions, dining and nightlife in Atlanta.
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HOTEL
CONTACT 866 West Peachtree Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30309
(678) 412-2400 RENAISSANCEATLANTAMIDTOWN.COM ERIC.WALDRON@RENAISSANCEHOTELS.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
DUNWOODY
RAVINIA CLUB AND GARDENS
Established in 1987, the Ravinia Club is an exclusive private club set in Dunwoody’s prestigious Ravinia complex with an ambiance that is conducive to both business ventures and family togetherness alike. Native American for “Magical Gardens,” Ravinia is not just our name, it’s a concept that is carried throughout the Club in its decor - from the sedate wildlife etchings in the glass to the Italian marble foyer and lovely floral artwork. Additionally, the Club is set aside the award-winning Ravinia gardens . . . A beautiful sanctuary for weddings, social and corporate events. The Club’s experienced professional catering team handles any size occasion with grace and elegance. Whether menu options, floral arrangements, music or photography, the staff can assist with any or all aspects to ensure a flawless and memorable event. The Ravinia Club’s meeting facilities are, in a word, perfect. Whether the event is an intimate lunch or a gathering of several hundred, it becomes the flawless occasion that you expect. When business is in order, technology-savvy meeting rooms are equipped with the necessary electronics. The Ravinia Club is a traditionally appointed City Club with a cascading spiral staircase and hand painted ceilings. The Gardens at Ravinia provide a tranquil setting for ceremonies of up to 200 guests. Lush wooded areas with two lakes and a stream that runs past an outdoor pagoda. We can accommodate 200 guests in our stately Main Dining Room alone and up to 350 guests by including other private rooms.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
Two Ravinia Drive Suite 100 Atlanta , Georgia 30346
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(770) 392-7328 WWW.RAVINIACLUB.COM LAURAPOTTS@RAVINIACLUB.COM
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6,000 3 Up to 650
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
Onsite catering with award winning chef. Offsite catering permitted if minimums are met INCLUDES: Marble dance floor, chateau chairs, standard linens, AV equipment PARKING: Free parking, valet optional SPECIAL FEATURES: Garden setting with lake, 10 story atrium with water features, city club setting, garden views, on-premise day spa, close to hotels, boutique planning services, onsite floral design CATERING:
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
ATLANTA GALLERIA
VENUE GUIDE
RENAISSANCE ATLANTA WAVERLY HOTEL
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
60,000 5 10 - 1,000
CATERING: Catering onsite, offsite allowed for specialized events PARKING: Self Parking is complimentary; Valet parking available SPECIAL FEATURES: 14 story atrium lobby, access to Galleria Gardens, spa services available, full fitness center, steam and sauna
With a 28 year tradition of hospitality and special event excellence in Atlanta, the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel has just the team and space to create your most memorable event. Our 14 story sun-drenched atrium lobby offers a unique sense of arrival, and the perfect location for wedding photos, a cocktail reception or just spending time with colleagues, family or friends. Beyond our atrium you’ll discover 3 beautiful ballrooms, all with individual sound, climate controls and lighting. Our Kennesaw room, complete with contemporary chandeliers and warm décor accented by shades of ivory and browns, offers 5,200 square feet of ballroom space, perfect for dinners, dancing and celebrating of all kinds. Earth tones accented by greens, reds and gold bring the Habersham Ballroom to life. 5,900 square feet of space, accented by airy 19 foot ceilings, offers a distinctive space for any type of event. For maximum impact, our 16,000 square foot Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 1,000 guests for plated dinners. Air wall flexibility allows creative space design for receptions, dinners and many types of unique sets and décor. Both the Habersham and Grand Ballrooms adjoin the spacious Garden Court pre-function area. With high ceilings, natural light and marble columns, the Garden Court is a lovely setting for cocktail receptions or after dinner dessert and coffee gatherings. Compliment the perfect special event with overnight stays in one of our 521 spacious guest rooms and suites. For the ultimate in special treatment, SpaWaverly offers soothing, personalized treatments, or relax in our complimentary Fitness Center, steam and sauna, and indoor salt water swimming pool.
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HOTEL
CONTACT 2450 Galleria Parkway SE Atlanta, GA 30339
(770) 953-4500 WWW.RENAISSANCEWAVERLY.COM ATLRB.LEADS@RENAISSANCEHOTELS.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
JOHNS CREEK
ST IVES COUNTRY CLUB
Sitting majestically atop one of the highest points in North Fulton County is St Ives Country Club’s crowning jewel, a 45,000 square foot stone encased clubhouse. Once inside, you experience the feeling of an 18th Century country English Manor. Full height mahogany paneling, crystal chandeliers, woven carpets handmade in the Far East, and silk wall coverings are just some of the spectacular appointments. Whether entertaining honored guests, hosting a small private party, throwing a large holiday event or coordinating an executive golf outing, St Ives Country Club provides the perfect combination of private elegance and impeccable service to make your event the talk of the town. Enjoy our culinary artists’ finest creations whether it is one of our menus or a menu that will reflect your own personal style. Our executive chef can help you select the perfect enhancements to make a lasting impression. St Ives Country Club offers deluxe bar services which include a large selection of award winning wines. Let us assist you in teaming the perfect wines with your meal. We would also be pleased to assist in directing you towards some of the finest wedding vendors in the Atlanta area. Let us help you create a special occasion for all to enjoy!
CONTACT
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1 St Ives Country Club Drive Johns Creek, Georgia 30097
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(770) 623-1239 WWW.STIVESCOUNTRYCLUB.ORG HSHELL@STIVESCOUNTRYCLUB.ORG
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
3,500 3 25 - 250
CATERING: Onsite caterer with custom menus, vegetarian available INCLUDES: Tables, chairs, linens, glassware, silverware, setup/ breakdown, centerpieces PARKING: Complimentary self parking available, valet service available SPECIAL FEATURES: Golf course view, outdoor ceremony site, close to hotels, board room and private banquet rooms
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BALLROO M
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MIDTOWN
VENUE GUIDE
SUMMEROUR
Lower left image by Wittmayer Photography
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
8,500 1 400
CATERING: Preferred caterer list provided INCLUDES: Our inventory of tables and chairs that include 200 gold chiavari chairs and dark wood farm tables, security guard and event manager. PARKING: Free self parking, optional valet available SPECIAL FEATURES: Fabulous outdoor courtyard, amazing city views, original wood floors and ceiling, great lighting and ambiance, bring your own alcohol
Summerour Studio is an old world refurbished factory overlooking Atlantic Station and Atlanta with a great skyline view! Summerour blends the past and present perfectly. This wonderful building is the main studio and office for Summerour & Associates architecture firm. The over 8,000 square feet of space is wide open with great windows to capture the view. As you arrive to Summerour you enter through arches into a beautiful cobblestone courtyard that rivals the villas of Tuscany. The main event space has many wonderful details that reinforce the architectural background of this great building, such as the original wood barrel vaulted ceiling and a hand carved Michelangelo replica staircase. Convenient to Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Atlantic Station and the interstate, this is the perfect setting for both social and corporate events. Consider Summerour Studio for your wedding ceremony and receptions, rehearsal dinners, Bar and Bat Mitzvah’s, corporate events, auctions and fundraisers as well as holiday parties. Summerour can easily accommodate groups of 50 up to 425 guests.
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URBAN
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 409 Bishop Street NW Atlanta , GA 30318
(404) 962-8708 WWW.NOVAREEVENTS.COM MZANGER@NOVAREEVENTS.COM
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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
DOWNTOWN
VENTANAS
Right image by Alecia Lauren Photography
Ventanas, the Spanish word for windows, is where you’ll find the only sweeping view of the Atlanta skyline that soars from Stone Mountain to Kennesaw Mountain. Perched atop the 14th and 15th stories of the Park Pavilion building in the city’s Luckie Marietta District, Ventanas offers 9,547 inspiring square feet of premier indoor and outdoor rooftop space and a helipad across the street from Centennial Olympic Park, The Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. The space is one block from the CNN Center, Philips Arena, Georgia World Congress Center, the Georgia Dome, American Cancer Society and AmericasMart. Take in breathtaking views of the city high above Downtown Atlanta with our magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows. From the 14th floor terrace level, step out onto the rooftop patio that features three fire pits and soft seating to enjoy a breath of fresh air or make your grand entrance via our unique spiral staircase that joins the 14th and 15th floors. While you’re enjoying sipping on a cocktail of your choice listen to your favorite band or DJ with clear and crisp sound amidst our oversized acoustical floating ceiling panels. And, you’ll be the talk of the town—when you and your guests make a dramatic entrance and exit by helicopter to Atlanta’s only event space and helipad. For an event that’s as close as possible to heaven, this is the place. From decadent hors d’oeuvres served against the backdrop of Atlanta’s evening skyline by Atlanta’s finest caterers paired with immaculate service, to a corporate lunch high above the daytime rush of the business capital of the south, our numerous food and beverage options can make your signature event unforgettable, whether for 50 people – or 500.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
275 Baker Street Atlanta, GA 30313
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 766-3867 WWW.VENTANASATLANTA.COM DHM@LEGACYPROPERTY.COM
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TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
9,547 3 50-500
Choose from a preferred catering list of Atlanta’s finest caterers INCLUDES: Visit our website for a complete list of our inventory PARKING: Valet and self parking available SPECIAL FEATURES: Rooftop venue, breathtaking view of the Downtown, Midtown and Buckhead skyline, indoor and outdoor space available, walking distance to the GWCC, helipad, outdoor patio and firepits CATERING:
URBAN
FUNCTION FACILITY
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DEKALB, GWINNETT
VENUE GUIDE
VECOMA AT THE YELLOW RIVER
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
3,500 3 50 - 330
CATERING: Onsite
catering with organic, vegan options, full alcohol license INCLUDES : Chairs, tables, dance floor, centerpieces, decorations, dinnerware PARKING: Ample free onsite parking SPECIAL FEATURES: Riverside, 70 acre forest oasis in a metropolis with total privacy, fireplace in a lovely lodge, indoor/outdoor events, huge lawn available for outdoor activities, large covered veranda, family owned since 1920’s.
Vecoma is Atlanta’s most secluded, charming and distinctive special events venue. Guests enjoy PRIVATE use of the lovely romantic lodge hidden in a 70 acre forest oasis. Included on the RIVERSIDE property is a huge back lawn perfect for large gatherings, ceremonies or games. Vecoma is a family owned business which specializes in the personal touch. History of Vecoma....As early as 900 B.C. this land formed part of the extensive native American southern trading route. Later it became the place of countless baptisms as well as a bivouac point for both Confederate and Union forces during 1864 and 1865. In 1927 Venie and Cotton Mather completed a 6-sided cabin made entirely of stone and wood taken from the property. The lodge was named Vecoma, combining the first two letters of each of their names. The foundation and chimney of this family relic still remain next to the new reception hall built in 1996. The large deck on the back of the hall overlooks the woods, lawn and river. Many couples have chosen this site for their wedding and reception. It is rich in history and natural beauty. Today, the family of Venie and Cotton Mather invite you to enjoy Vecoma as you celebrate your own historic and special event. As you walk the grounds, you can see the foundations of the old farm, the Yellow River; and you might even get a glimpse of deer and other wildlife that inhabit the densely wooded land.
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OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 4400 Vecoma Lane Snellville, GA 30039
(770) 972-6540 WWW.VECOMA1.COM VECOMA@MINDSPRING.COM
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VENUE GUIDE
MIDTOWN
W ATLANTA - MIDTOWN
30,000 7 1,500
Where else can you be steps away from so much to do and see but at W Atlanta - Midtown? This cool oasis in the middle of Atlanta’s hottest and hippest neighborhood is sure to amplify the joy in your commitment ceremony, the rhythm in your reception, and the wow in your vows. Offering access to an endless array of wonderful dining options, world-class culture, and picturesque Piedmont Park, W Atlanta – Midtown is the perfect pick for your wedding or event.
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE:
Looking for views that Wow? Visit Altitude, our 27th floor event space with floor-to-ceiling windows that will surround your guests with panoramic views of Piedmont Park and the sparkling Atlanta skyline. Or, celebrate in our 10,000 square foot Great Room – the largest ballroom of any W Hotel worldwide – accommodating up to 500 guests for a reception.
Vegan, Vegetarian, Custom Menu Creations, Onsite, Organic INCLUDES: Dance floor, linens, china, silverware, stemware, votive candles, lounge furniture PARKING: Valet and self parking SPECIAL FEATURES: W Signature Wow Vows, Altitude – 27th floor event space, Spice Market by Jean-Georges, Bliss Spa, Rande Gerber’s Whiskey Park, WET deck with private cabanas, proximity to Piedmont Park, the Midtown Mile, the arts and public transit.
When you choose W Hotels, you’ll enjoy W Signature stylings and exclusive Whatever/Whenever® Service, so your experience is exactly how you always imagined. Plus, enjoy the perks of our renowned on-site partners like Bliss® Spa, Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Spice Market, and nightlife maven Rande Gerber’s Whiskey Park.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
188 14th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30361
FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
(404) 892-6000 WWW.WATLANTAMIDTOWN.COM GAYLENE.MOLDT@WHOTELS.COM
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# OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
CATERING:
BALLROO M
HOTEL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BUCKHEAD
VENUE GUIDE
W ATLANTA - BUCKHEAD
Above photo by Picture This! Photography (www.sandraandgreg.com)
TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE: # OF EVENT SPACES: CAPACITY:
9,000 4 300
Vegan, vegetarian, custom menu creations, onsite, organic INCLUDES: Dance floor, risers, linens, china, silverware, stemware, votive candles, DJ and cake tables PARKING: Valet SPECIAL FEATURES: W Signature Wow Vows and W Signature Stylings, celebrity Chef JeanGeorges’ MARKET restaurant, Rande Gerber’s Whiskey Blue rooftop bar, private event spaces, WET deck with individual cabanas, proximity to world-class shopping and over 1400 unique retailers. CATERING:
Celebrate in style at W Atlanta – Buckhead, the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and modern chic. Maintaining the grand traditions of the south, we provide a stylish environment infused with the historical references that define the rich tradition of Buckhead. And sensationally styled spaces are just the beginning. When you choose W Hotels, you’ll get to enjoy exclusive Whatever/Whenever® services so your experience is exactly how you always imagined. Wishing for the intimate wedding of your dreams? W Atlanta – Buckhead’s event spaces are arranged to make a guest feel as if no one else is around. Beginning with our not-your-ordinary Living Room (that’s lobby in W-speak), you’ll be immersed in W’s signature style. Enjoy the countryclub cool feel of our Thom Filicia-designed spaces and rooms that awaken the senses with rich, dramatic hues and sultriness. With renowned on-site partners like celebrity Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s MARKET restaurant to nightlife maven Rande Gerber’s Whiskey Blue rooftop bar, we’ve got you covered. Whatever/Whenever® your event needs may be, allow our team to grant your every wish.
SCAN HERE FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
BALLROO M
HOTEL
CONTACT 3377 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326
(678) 500-3128 WWW.WATLANTABUCKHEAD.COM KAREN.DONATELLI@WHOTELS.COM
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REHEARSAL DINNER & PRIVATE DINING GUIDE
The ins and outs of
REHEARSAL DINNERS
and private dining parties A private dinner is a chance for people to gather and get to know each other better and have a shared experience. Whether it’s a rehearsal dinner, a birthday party or a corporate function, if you have a certain look and price point in mind, chances are you can find a restaurant that will suit your needs. Most have experience hosting small to large functions, so planning is relatively painless. Hosting a dinner at a restaurant ensures that your guests will enjoy excellent fare, since good food is their specialty. Plus, they are already fully decorated, allowing for added pizzazz that may be lacking in another venue type’s more basic décor. If you’re foodies, a restaurant can be a place that is as adventurous with its cuisine as you are. These days your personality or that of your business can be reflected in the setting. However, keep in mind that with restaurants, the good food can come with space limitations. Remember that if your group size doesn’t warrant renting the entire place, you may be seated close to regular patrons, which can mean less privacy. Semi-private dining – or dining that is not closed off – can mean that noise and passersby will be out of your control. “At a baseline, you want a restaurant with enough space for your guests to feel comfortable,” said Jennifer Boozer, Director of Marketing for Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, which owns twelve restaurants and private event spaces. Private dinners are the first time a lot of people get to meet each other,” said Boozer. “You want an easy environment for people to talk with each other. So, be sure to ask if the space will be quiet.” If needed, make sure that the establishment you choose is equipped with AV gear that can support slideshows, speeches, toasting,
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roasting and/or announcements so that your entire crowd can easily see and hear. If they do not have the necessary equipment, confirm that they will allow you to bring in your own and that the electrical outlets can support the equipment you bring in.
SEAR at ATLANTA MARRIOTT MARQUIS
Depending on the size of your dinner, it may be helpful to set a pre-determined menu. If you have a smaller group, you could work with the restaurant to provide more choices for your guests. And don’t forget the little touches that make every event unique. Although private dinners tend to be smaller in size, you can still incorporate little details with big impact like centerpieces, tags on gift items, custom napkins and even place cards. Escort cards are often used at large events because they let guests know where they will be seated. In the same way, place cards are an excellent detail for smaller dinners. There are so many opportunities to make a private restaurant experience your own unique creation. Determining your particular needs will enable you to find the perfect place to throw your next party. Whether you choose a quaint bistro or a larger eatery for your event, remember that throwing a private dinner is your chance to make a meal into a memorable experience.
TIP :: Don’t forget the details. Place cards are an excellent detail for smaller dinner parties.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
REHEARSAL DINNER & PRIVATE DINING GUIDE
SEAR at Atlanta Marriott Marquis 265 Peachtree Center Ave Atlanta, GA 30303 SEATS: 10 to 100 CUISINE: Fire-Inspired American The Sear Private Dining room is conveniently located within the Atlanta Marriott Marquis’ signature restaurant, Sear, also the cooking style of choice at this fire-inspired American restaurant, specializes in searing steaks, seafood and, yes, desserts. The Private Dining room, divisible into 2 rooms for 50 or one room with seating for up to 100 guests, is an ideal setting for intimate and private dining. Allow our Event Specialist to handle all the details and our culinary team to customize menus to satisfy the most discriminating taste. Leave everything to us and enjoy your memorable event within the breathtaking Atlanta Marriott Marquis.
SE A R AT LA NTA. C OM • 4 0 4 - 5 8 6 - 6 0 7 9
•
LAU R EN.M.SIMMO NS@ MA R R IOT T.CO M
ATLANTA FISH MARKET 265 Pharr Road Atlanta, GA 30305 SEATS: Up to 160 Guests CUISINE: Seafood Southern charm and the Southeast’s widest selection of fresh fish and seafood take center stage at this everpopular Buckhead landmark. With gracious service and a comfortable, neighborhood atmosphere, it is a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of Buckhead. Atlanta Fish Market has something for everyone, and is ideal for luncheons, dinners, business or speaker meetings, and receptions. A Savannah-casual atmosphere for casual to dressy affairs and specialty linens, florals, and decorations allow you to customize your event. With private dining rooms on the restaurant level and on the mezzanine overlooking the restaurant, you can’t go wrong with Atlanta Fish Market for your next private dining experience. B UC K H E A D R E S TA U RA NT S .COM • ( 404) 601- 1333
•
MWO LLA STO N@ BU CKHEA DR ESTAURAN TS. C OM
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One Day, One Place, One Show
He proposed!
Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta
Let the planning begin!
Sunday | January 29, 2012 1pm - 5pm 200 Peachtree Special Event & Conference Center In the heart of downtown Atlanta
Here’s what you’ll experience: · Atlanta’s Best Wedding Professionals. · Exciting couture fashion shows. · Tasty treats and wedding cake. · Discover the perfect venue, flowers, photographers, honeymoon,and more. · Creative ideas and designs. · Chance to win romantic honeymoons and thousands in door prizes! © nadia d photography
Named Best Wedding Show in the USA!! featuring
SPECTACULAR WEDDING GALLERIES Including Wedding Cake, Floral & Photography Showcases
For more info & to pre-register www.BridalExtravaganzaofAtlanta.com
Tickets available online
$10 advance | $15 day of show
cash only
Use promo code BEAOM for $5.00 off advanced tickets.
Brides Hotline 678-439-9334
REAL EVENTS Real Event Inspiration
WEDDINGS, MITZVAHS, BABY SHOWERS AND BIRTHDAY PARTIES TOO.
From photo booths to invitation suites and even ceremony decor, the quirky mustache trend is taking the wedding industry by storm! We love the playful way that featured bride Miranda used temporary mustache tattoos in her wedding. Personality AND style? Oh yes, we can get behind a trend like that!
Plus expanded features of each and everyone of these events online OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 111
112 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
KIM ZOLCIAK + KROY BIERMANN
real baby shower
F
or the Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Kim Zolciak, nothing less than an over the top celebration would do for her spring baby shower. Along with her Atlanta Falcons beau Kroy Biermann and the event extraordinaires at WEDDING SOIREE, the couple gathered with friends and family to welcome the upcoming arrival of their baby boy in style. With a keen sense of fashion that mixes traditional elegance and modern flair, Kim asked that the shower be built around the three G’s: Glam, Glitz and Glitter.
Held at 200 PEACHTREE, the ballroom was a champagne dream. Round tables covered in sparkling baby blue, champagne and gold linens were topped with giant, lush topiary centerpieces. The white hydrangeas -- one of Kim’s favorite colors that also inspired the decor-- complemented the grandeur of the room and brought an element of softness that complimented the reason for the day. Custom made letterpress stationery pieces were used throughout the various elaborate tablescapes, on menus, place cards and more. PROOF OF THE PUDDING disappointed no one with the culinary spread provided, which included heavy appetizers of such specialties like roasted tomatoes on goat cheese croutons, crispy chicken lollipops, miniature spinach and Gruyere cheese quiches, and spicy Thai meatballs to name only a few. DIY met Diva at the dessert tables
Flowers
PERFECT CREATIONS AND DESIGN
created the breathtaking flower arrangements that filled the ballroom. “We wanted to reflect Kim’s elegant style,” said Alisa Smalls, “something that was traditional with a modern twist.” To create the two signature arrangements, Smalls used catteleya orchids, vendetta roses, and aspidistra leaves. She also used hurricane vases and gold accent pieces like tassels and ribbons to make sure that each piece was glam, glittering and glitzy!
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Cake
Taking center stage at the shower was the towering five-tier cake from CLASSIC CHEESECAKES & CAKES. The giant treat featured five delicious flavors: chocolate pound cake, vanilla pound cake, lemon pound cake, raspberry pound cake and Bailey’s pound cake, each with their own unique filling. The outside of the cake was inspired by Kim’s circus theme and was covered in blue, chocolate brown and gold icing.
Editors Note
Impressed with the elaborate design by WEDDING SOIREE? We’re willing to bet you’d be pretty darn surprised to learn that the whole shower was pulled off in a matter of weeks! I know, we couldn’t believe it either.
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Color Story
Baby blue, soft cream, white and regal gold accents were the colors of choice for Kim and Kroy’s baby shower. Though beautifully carried out through elements like the cake and invitations, it was the subtle placement of the colors around the ballroom that truly brought the design together; there were gold tassels hanging from each tall centerpiece, and fine blue filigree outlined guest cards. Stunning family and friends was Kim’s inclusion of the colors into her beautiful champagne gown, complete with cascading blue sash.
Gift Table
Playing up the festive air of the party, upon guests arrival to the ballroom they were met by a full nursery suite. The nursery was complete with a gold gilded rocking chair, white furry rug, baby dresser and crib, which cleverly doubled as the party’s gift table.
where Kim and Kroy spared no treat for their guests. The two tables were “glam” and “circus” themed respectively and featured their shared favorites from multiple confectioners. Gold glittering bonbons, vanilla meringue cookies, chocolate covered baby Oreo’s, animal cupcake fondant toppers and circus toys wowed guests and sent everyone into a sugar frenzy! White favor boxes were filled with fine chocolates and candy, wrapped with black and gold glittering ribbons and topped with white Marabou embellishments for guests to take home. A five-tier cake was the star of the dessert table alongside mini vanilla and red velvet cupcakes. Remembering the day for both Kim, Kroy and their guests was made possible by a Mother Goose nursery rhymes book that served as the guest book, as well as the OMG PHOTO BOOTH. The booth and it’s pictures were nursery themed and provided many memorable pictures for the couple and guests alike, while photographer DAVID CHRISTENSEN captured the rest of the day’s emotional and celebratory images.
Style Source PHOTOGRAPHY: David Christensen Photography EVENT PLANNER: Wedding Soiree VENUE: 200 Peachtree CATERING: Proof of the Pudding LIGHTING: Active Production and Design LINENS: Table Toppers RENTALS: Event Rentals Unlimited MUSIC: Party Over Here FLORAL: Perfect Creations and Design STATIONERY: Paper Parfait CALLIGRAPHY: MM Ink Calligraphy CAKE: Classic Cheesecakes and Cakes PHOTOBOOTH: OMG Booth DESSERT TABLE: Cookie Covers, Bedazzle My Bonbons, Sweeties by Kim, Icing Cake Design
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COURTNEY + EVAN
real wedding
I
t could be said that in the case of Courtney and Evan, the great outdoors is the third person in their relationship. Having spent much of their time hiking, biking and exploring together (Evan even proposed on the beach), it was no surprise that this couple would want to celebrate the happiest day of their lives outside. With a mutual love for the fall, they chose an October wedding at the scenic BARNSLEY GARDENS, selecting a color palette of chocolate brown and warm oranges, golds and reds to reflect the season. For this couple though, the celebration started way before their Saturday ceremony. Guests arriving in from out of town were welcomed Thursday with a barbecue in Barnsley’s beer garden. Friday morning, Evan hosted a golf tournament for his groomsmen while Courtney shared in a very special bridesmaids luncheon at the Rice House, also on the Barnsley Gardens property. After rehearsing for the big day, dinner at the historic onsite ruins was held for friends and family where heartfelt toasts were made, a sentimental slide show of the couple played, and family friends took their turn at entertaining the crowd with various live music performances.
Dress
Courtney wore a fit to flare MONIQUE LHUILLIER gown that featured intricate lace detailing and a delicate ribbon around the waist. She also wore a matching chapel length veil by the same designer. Of her dream dress, Courtney says, “It was love at first sight! The dress fit me like a glove and was the most comfortable thing I have ever worn.”
On October 23, 2010, friends and family of Courtney and Evan gathered for the rustic southern affair. Following handmade antique wooden signs to the wedding, guests enjoyed traditional sweet
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Details
Courtney handmade the simple wooden signs placed throughout the Barnsley Gardens property to direct guests to the ceremony and reception, lending itself to the weekend’s southern charm. She also crafted individual wooden chip place cards for each guest, a natural element that continued into the rest of the reception decor.
Tent
PEACHTREE TENTS AND EVENTS provided a stunning clear tent that allowed
the beauty of nature that Courtney and Evan love to be a continued element at their reception. The softly lit tea-lights both enhanced the setting and set the ambiance for the intimate but festive celebration.
tea and lemonade while waiting for the ceremony to begin. Clad in a breathtaking lace Monique Lhuillier gown, Courtney and her father entered the ceremony by horse drawn carriage; it was a moment that for Courtney, was one of the day’s most memorable. Courtney and Evan celebrated their I do’s with family and friends under the stars, enjoying a clear tent that allowed the beauty of their surroundings to shine through. Delicately strung tea-lights completed the ambiance, offering a warm amber glow. Guests dined on what Courtney appropriately deemed a “Southern Feast,” catered by Barnsley Gardens. Paying homage to the groom, an Oregon Ducks groom’s cake rounded out the many tantalizing treats. Lawn games like cornhole and ladderball were also set out to enjoy, with a fire pit close by to take a load off and roast a s’more! Before the night ended, the newlyweds snuck out of the tent to savor an outside view of the celebration. “It was so neat to step back and take that private moment,” said Courtney. “We truly felt so loved and blessed that night.” After spending their first night as husband and wife at the St. Regis hotel, Courtney and Evan relaxed for a week seaside in sunny Watercolor, Florida. 120 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
Style Source VENUE AND CATERING: Barnsley Gardens CAKE: Frosted Pumpkin PHOTOGRAPHER: The Decisive Moment STATIONERY Paper Affair and Bumblebee Press DECOR Parties to Die For MUSIC: The Dickens and Arms Akimbo RENTALS: Peachtree Tents and Events CEREMONY MUSIC: Poulenc String Quartet HAIR & MAKEUP: Jamison Shaw Hairdressers HORSE AND CARRIAGE: Back In Time DAY OF PLANNER: Emily Roselli
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ELLIE CRITZ
real birthday party
J
ay and Amy Harrison wanted to throw their daughter a birthday party to remember. Teaming up with POSH TOT EVENTS helped them to do just that. Inspired by 3- year- old birthday girl Ellie Critz’s favorite song “Zippity-Doo-Dah,” the decor was playful and full of whimsy, centered around images of bluebirds, colorful pinwheels and festive patterns. Ellie Critz’s reaction to her awe-inspiring party set-up? “OOH! It’s SO PRETTY!” From event designer Jennifer Shields: “This was the third party we did for little Ellie Critz. Having clients come back year after year with new ideas for themes, challenges us to come up with something bigger and better every year. Amy loves classic fairy tales and themes and always strives to wow her guests with something spectacular and unique. This year was no exception.” After finding a cheerful flower print in a summery color palette, Jennifer knew that she had -- along with the song inspiration -- found the second design cornerstone she needed. The Posh Tots team then incorporated it into everything from the table runner to the hand wrapped bubble containers that guests took home as favors; all of which served as a tie in with the entertainment and added to the whimsical feel.
Cake
MISS MAMIE’S CUPCAKES took
the invitation to the birthday party along with a small fabric sample and created a custom cake that truly brought the party theme to life. A twotier strawberry lemonade cake was certainly a highlight of the celebration!
Balloons
To create the larger than life balloon canopy, BALLOONACY used a combination of 16-20” custom balloons in the peppy bright blue, lime green and yellow color scheme.
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Favors
For a chance at their own bubble magic, guests took home customized tins of their own special bubble juice from THE GEORGIA BUBBLEMAN.
Blue Birds
Taking a cue from the classic “Zippity-Doo-Dah” animated characters, a pair of bluebirds appeared on everything from the birthday cake, to the drink stand, and even on the party girl’s festive frock.
“We loved the opportunity to create a party around something like a classic song and not the usual ‘Princess’ or ‘Pirate’ type themes,” said Jennifer. “It gave us a change to flex our creative muscles and really build a beautiful event with unexpected details.” Pint-size guests celebrated outdoors under a colorful canopy sky of giant green, yellow and blue balloons from BALLOONACY ATLANTA. All of the meticulous attention to coordinating the detailed design resulted in a celebratory atmosphere enhanced only by the day’s entertainment. MISS GAIL MUSIC gave an interactive performance for the children, singing and playing instruments that everyone could love. Once the jumping and dancing subsided, The GEORGIA BUBBLEMAN was up to bat. Ready to refresh guests post-show was the delicious “Lemonade Stand.” Not only was the traditional treat served, but strawberry lemonade and lemon-slice cookies to boot! Guests went really wild though, for an adorable cupcake cake designed by MISS MAMIE’S CUPCAKES. Seamlessly incorporating the days’ design elements, the confection was truly the icing on top of a perfect day.
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHER: Lauren Nicole Studios VENUE: Private Home STYLING & COORDINATION: Posh Tot Events BALLOONS: Balloonacy Atlanta ENTERTAINMENT: Miss Gail Music and The Georgia Bubbleman STATIONERY: Posh Tot Events CAKE: Miss Mamie’s Cupcakes HAND PAINTED COOKIES: Whimsical Originals
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KATIE + MATTHEW
real wedding
R
omantic. Intimate.Timeless. Those were the words Katie and Matthew Brooks hoped to inspire guests with at their classic spring wedding. Having originally vied for a more bold color scheme, Katie eventually settled on a palette of ivory, blush and platinum, recognizing the simple elegance that matched her vision of the day. With Matthew being a Georgia Tech Alum, and the couple having met and dated in Atlanta, there were no doubts that a wedding in the city was right for them. THE PIEDMONT ROOM AT PARK TAVERN served as the backdrop to both the ceremony and the reception, keeping in line with an intimate ambiance that also celebrated the best of the Midtown Skyline. As the late afternoon light poured through the windows of The Piedmont Room on April 23, 2011, all the months of planning finally came together as Katie’s father walked her down the aisle, and Matthew laid eyes on his bride for the first time. “We both agreed that the first time we would see each other would be when I was walking down the aisle,” said Katie, wearing an ivory silk stain Essence of Australia gown. “It was a special moment for us.”
Photography
“Brittany and Nick, with BRITA PHOTOGRAPHY were awesome,” said Katie. “Brittany’s sincerity in wanting to capture great pictures for us was evident from the very first meeting at our engagement photo session. We were relieved not to have to worry about our photos. We knew they’d turn out exceptional, and they definitely were.”
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Bridesmaid's Dresses
Katie chose platinum, one shoulder knee length bridesmaids dresses by Jasmine from the B2 collection that would compliment the soft pinks and creams in the lush bouquets they carried.
Flowers
All of the flowers by BLOSSOMS ATLANTA were said to be “vintage chic.” Each bouquet was made of pale blush stock, fluffy white hydrangeas, crisp white ranunculus, petal pink miniature majolica spray roses, and warm pink David Austin garden roses with a deep green lemon leaf- cuff accented by sage seeded eucalyptus.
Immediately following the ceremony, the 130 guests in attendance were led to a lively cocktail hour while the ballroom was transformed from ceremony to reception. Guests were met upon re-entry to the room with the romantic glow of candlelit tables and the sweet fragrance of garden roses, ranunculus and hydrangeas from the table centerpieces created by BLOSSOMS ATLANTA. A delicious buffet of smoked gouda risotto, whole baked salmon, prime rib and so much more fueled guests for the fun night ahead. Created by APRON STRINGS CAKERY, the delicious wedding cake featured two flavors: butter with lemon filling and strawberry with buttercream. “We spent a good amount of time finding a cake vendor we liked,” says Katie, “It was worth it!” It was likely the sugar rush that led guests to the dance floor, but it was Matt Callahan from EVENTS TO REMEMBER that kept them dancing all night long, mixing songs and making each track as unique as the newlywed couple. Katie and Matthew spent their first week as husband and wife soaking up the sun at the SANDALS ROYAL CARIBBEAN in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHER: Brita Photography VENUE AND CATERING: The Piedmont Room FLORAL: Blossoms Atlanta DJ: Events to Remember MUSICIANS: Trio Elegant COORDINATOR: Cindy Swafford STATIONERY: Paper Source CAKE: Apron Strings Cakery WEDDING GOWN & BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Charme Bridal VIDEOGRAPHER: Video Solutions Atlanta FAVORS: Candy Warehouse OFFICIANT: Larry Daniel
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JESSICA ALEXANDER
real baby shower
J
essica Alexander has always loved giraffes, a not-so-secret-infatuation that inspired her modern,whimsical baby shower. Hosted by Jessica’s sisters-in-law, Kim and Kristen, the warm and sunny celebration was whimsical and unique in every way.
“Ever since I was a young teenager I’ve loved giraffes,” said Jessica. “My sister-in-law Kim has known this, and had been secretly collecting anything giraffe for years! She used the shower to finally gift the stockpile of stuffed-animal giraffes, giraffe frames, giraffe books, and giraffe children’s toys.” FOXGLOVES AND IVY created a not-so-literal jungle filled with organic flower arrangements in subtle shades of yellow, red and green. Set at the heart of the party was an almond pound cake flavored, giraffe-shaped cake that was a hit with the mama-to-be. Yellow striped straws, personalized with each guests’ name were both playful and functional, allowing guests to keep tabs on their all natural dry sodas in flavors like rhubarb, lavender and lemongrass. Of course, each soda was adorned with a hand-sewn felt giraffe, furthering the fanciful vibe of the shower. Playful lemon and lime colored pom-poms hung from the ceiling with the joyful reminder
Color Story
Though giraffes certainly ruled the decor, pops of bright yellow roses, straws and signage also made for a gender-neutral and sunny shower atmosphere.
Cake
Can you believe that giant giraffe is actually an almond pound cake!? The geniuses at CLASSIC CHEESECAKES AND CAKES truly outdid themselves with this interpretation of Jessica’s most beloved animal. And did you happen to notice the pacifier in it’s mouth?
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for everyone to “CELEBRATE!” the special day. With perfectly sunny weather guests lounged on a scenic outdoor patio and ate healthful fare like hummus, veggies and petite sandwiches. Served on adorable giraffe plates, and set at tables with mochaswirl linens, the display suited the day perfectly. Wanting to keep their brother and dad-to-be involved in the celebration, the hostesses made his (and now Jessica’s) favorite almond sugar cookies topped with marzipan. As party favors, EMILY G’S homemade jam in Mango Tango or Pear Honey made the day’s end extra sweet. So how do you pull of an event like this? Hostess Kristen Alexander gives this advice for planning a shower that will dazzle: “Start early, and get help. Collaboration brings out great ideas that will make sure every aspect of the day is thoughtful and personal.”
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHER: Kristen Alexander Photography VENUE: Private Home FLORAL: Foxgloves and Ivy LINENS: Chair Covers and Linens CAKE: Classic Cheesecakes and Cakes FAVORS: Emily G’s Jam
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MIRANDA + BEN
real wedding
Y
ou know that old adage that “everyone knows everyone in a small town?” Well, that simply wasn’t the case for Miranda and Ben. Both hailing from the sleepy southern town of Rome, Georgia, it was years after college that the two finally met and fell in love. On an “impromptu” weekend trip to New York City, Ben proposed in Central Park with an heirloom ring as sparkling as the city lights around them. Miranda happily accepted his proposal, and the two soon embarked on planning their spring wedding. Set on a sprawling 200 acres complete with a fishing pond and picturesque mountain range backdrop, the bride’s childhood home was exactly what the couple envisioned for their intimate, traditional and quintessentially southern wedding. To bring the feeling of a wedding chapel outdoors, an antique arched cathedral window was set at the altar, while candles glowed from wooden and tin lanterns hung in the trees. Guests received programs made by the bride that featured a watercolor painting of the ceremony location; a wedding gift to the couple. A surprise bagpiper piped the Bride and her father down the aisle, as a tribute to her Scottish/Irish heritage. And by way of celebrating in true southern style, a large mouth bass hit top water as the pastor closed the service in prayer. Amen!
Colors
Miranda chose a color palette of muted natural shades of blush, caramel and soft greens that wouldn’t compete with the scenic outdoor setting. She hoped that the colors and decor were a frame of reference only to the beauty of the day and not the decade.
For Fun
Keeping the mood of the day jovial and light the bride, groom and bridesmaids all wore temporary mustache tattoos on their fingers providing tons of amusing photos!
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Cake
Deemed the crowd favorite by Miranda, the cake consisted of two flavors: “Black & Jack:” smashed whole blackberries and Jack Daniels icing on lemon pound cake, and “Blueberries & Brandy:” a similar style of crushed blueberries and brandy icing over lemon pound cake.
For the Boys
It’s not every wedding that the groom and groomsmen blow off dayof steam at the ceremony site, but that’s exactly what Ben and his friends did. Enjoying the great outdoors, they fished all morning at the bass-filled lake turned ceremony chapel.
Guests soon made their way to the reception tent where more than one surprise had been planned. Miranda and Ben had their first dance to a song that Ben had written and recorded in Nashville as a wedding gift to Miranda. Though Miranda had designed Chinese take out boxes for leftover cake that read, “This takes the cake,” the five-tier confection was so popular that there were only two pieces left! THE ENTICE BAND kept the party going, while guests got in on the action by showcasing their best moves. From the “jump rope”, “speed skater” and “the worm,” to the “shuffleboarder,” a few friends even tried their talents on stage with the band! When the night had come to an end, Ben and Miranda left for their Grecian honeymoon in a vintage Mercedes convertible. As they drove away, friends and family released 200 Chinese paper wish lanterns -- a sure sign of the love and happiness ahead for the new Mr. and Mrs. Bagley.
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHY: Bamber Photography EVENT PLANNER: Tommy Lam, Mary Sib Banks VENUE: Private Home CATERING: Two Can Do FLORAL: Paula Fuller CAKE: Crickette’s Cakes MUSIC: Entice RENTALS: A1 Tent and Party Rentals STATIONERY: Cynthia Howell HAIR: Wiyanna’s Salon MAKEUP: Stella Blu
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ZOE BYRD CARTER
real birthday party
P
arty planner Melanie Hernquist of Lucky and Lovely decided that for birthday girl Zoe Byrd Carter, a summer camp theme would be the perfect way to celebrate her active lifestyle and love of the outdoors. Zoe’s only request? That the party was f-u-n!
As promised, that fun started as soon as guests received their custom invitations. Along with miniature flashlights, guests were invited to celebrate at “Camp Zoe,” the birthday girl’s very own magical campsite held at THE SCOUT LODGE in Hapeville, GA. Once at the party, guests were decked out in matching hot pink and lime green “Camp Zoe” t-shirts and bandannas. An exciting nature trail hunt complete with custom loot bags kept partygoers entertained, as did the hilarious photo booth where Zoe and her friends used props like over-sized glasses and fake mustaches to create memorable snapshots. Of course, these fantastic party props and prizes didn’t just fall out of the sky. With the ingenuity of LUCKY AND LOVELY, each t-shirt was handmade, each pennant flag stitched and the photo
Cake
MADE FRESH DAILY CAKES played
up the summer camp theme by creating a birthday cake with a lifelike tree stump base, on top of which was a miniature Camp Zoe site: tent, official flag and a real burning campfire!
Colors
Zoe’s favorite colors were the inspiration behind everything from the invitations to the photo booth props. Bright green, pink and turquoise painted the party and made everything distinctively Zoe!
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booth backdrop hand dyed. Do-It-Yourself-Fabulously was the theme of the decor. Each personalized, coordinated touch distinctively was Zoe. The food catered by SHERI DAVIS CATERING featured some of Zoe’s favorite dishes like shrimp, grilled cheese sandwiches and chicken fingers, rounded out by a sweet cookie buffet from DANDY DELIGHTS, piled high with frosted treats in the pink and green signature party colors. But what campsite would be complete without s’mores? Stocked with flavored marshmallows, graham crackers and plenty of delicious chocolate, a s’mores bar made absolutely certain that every last guest left a very happy camper. As is the case with every birthday party hit out of the park, Zoe’s only critique was that the day could have lasted longer. And as for that fun requirement she’d asked for? We think it’s safe to say, mission accomplished.
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHY: Aregreyline Weddings PLANNING, INVITATIONS & DECOR: Lucky and Lovely VENUE: The Scout Lodge CATERER: Sheri Davis Catering CAKE: Made FRESH Daily Cakes COOKIES: Dandy Delights
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VICTORIA + MAXWELL
real wedding
T
he best weddings are always those that reflect the heart and soul of the couple. As bride Victoria explained, “Our goal was to personalize every aspect of the wedding so that our guests walked away feeling as if they knew more about us as a couple than they had before.” With that sentiment in mind, Victoria and fiance Maxwell designed an intimate, laid-back wedding that was as sunny and southern as the September day they were married. Since spending two years renovating and adding their own personal touches to their 1920’s Atlanta bungalow, the couple chose a contemporary palette of gray and yellow to match. Surrounded by 140 of their closest friends and family, Victoria and Maxwell held their ceremony at THE TROLLEY BARN, not too far from their own home. The wedding party gave a lively ceremony entrance, walking down the aisle to instrumental renditions of new and old rap songs. Everyone was in the mood to celebrate! The Bride dazzled her groom in a strapless, silk chiffon Reverie by MELISSA SWEET gown with silk roses at the bust and beautiful draping at the waist. The picture of a Greek goddess, Victoria met her groom, and the two exchanged vows in a ceremony led by a close collegiate friend of Maxwell’s. Plenty of great food and drink were of utmost importance to this couple. And with
Flowers
Victoria’s bouquet was a combination of Eskimo roses, calla lilies and double tulips. Using dusty miller and Teddy Bear sunflowers in the bridesmaid’s bouquets added fluffy playfulness to the roses, freesia, and Berzellia berries which were also used.
Cake
Victoria’s grandmother not only made the delicious wedding cake, but also the groom’s cake and the cake favors.
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most guests hailing from either New York or Connecticut, Maxwell and Victoria had a reception planned that would showcase the very best of southern hospitality. Immediately after the ceremony, guests feasted on drinks and hors d’oeuvres like fried green tomatoes, barbecue beef brisket, macaroni and cheese, refreshing Arnold Palmers and other deep south specialties. The wedding cake was a three tier yellow cake with lemon and chocolate buttercream icing. What really stole the show was the rum cake, made by the bride’s grandmother and a traditional Jamaican wedding staple. Guests took home individual slices in boxes with customized “Grandma Molly’s Homemade Cake” labels, a delicious favor for everyone. For brides planning their own weddings, Victoria relays the piece of advice that meant the most to her: To not worry about traditions and the opinions of others; do what’s right for you as a couple and the rest will fall into place.
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHER: My Life Photography VENUE: The Trolley Barn CATERER: Badda Bing Catering EVENT PLANNER: Sylvia Wayfer Clark FLORAL: Juli Vaughn Designs DRAPERY: Geri Sims Productions RENTALS: Classic Party Rentals A/V: Atlanta Audio Visual DJ: DJ Extreme STATIONERY: Blush Paperie TRANSPORTATION: Superior Limousine HAIR: Angela Knight of Today’s Salon MAKEUP: Alicia Brown DANCE LESSONS: Ballroom Dance Clubs of Atlanta WEDDING DRESS: Priscilla of Boston BRIDAL PARTY ATTIRE: Bridals by Lori
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BRYCE & SUMTER
real birthday party
N
othing says “carnival” quite like a clown. That’s why when guests made their way into Bryce and Sumter’s fall carnival birthday party, they were greeted by one standing nine feet tall! Though the greeting was certainly special, it was just the beginning of a party that offered plenty of fun for every guest.
A face painter created colorful works of art for each child, while a petting zoo complete with bunnies, chickens and ducks showcased some of their favorite animals. Party-goers could then stop by the Fair Hair booth to have their locks crafted into some of the craziest hairstyles ever seen! After becoming certifiably circus-ready, guests created art of their own with the Spin Art station, and likewise spun their own cotton candy. But the real show stealer? The giant bounce house and Monkey Bounce Bungee Jump. The team from AMUSEMENT MASTERS made sure the kids had a blast while flipping and jumping through the air. “There was so much going on,” event planner Holland Muscio of PARTIES THAT POP said. “From the minute the children walked in the door they had so many things to do. Ironically, even with all of the
Colors
Taking a cue from the circuses of yester-year, vibrant red and yellow were the party’s signature colors, appearing everywhere from the invitations, to the tablecloths, to the grosgrain ribbons tied on each take-home candy jar.
Entertainment
Ribbons, glitter, (washable) spray paint, and plastic toys were only a few of the wacky items FAIR HAIR used in creating the jaw-dropping hairstyles seen party wide.
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brought-in entertainment, many of the children still enjoyed playing on the jungle gym!”
Style Source
For this fall festival, the emphasis was on fun, and not as much on extravagant eats. The hostesses kept things simple with a kid friendly menu of cotton candy, vanilla cupcakes from HENRI’S BAKERY, Mayfield ice cream cups and fresh cotton candy!
PHOTOGRAPHY: Shari Zellers EVENT PLANNER: Parties That Pop BALLOONS: Balloonacy Atlanta MONKEY BOUNCE: Amusement Masters HAIR & FACE PAINTING: Fair Hair and Miss Zooey ENTERTAIMENT: Jumptastic PETTING ZOO: Party Ponies FAVOR TAGS: Ink Spot Workshop DESSERT: Henri’s Bakery
When the time came to wish the birthday boys Happy Birthday, BALLOONACY transformed the garage into an authentic circus big top, with columns and swags of balloons in classic red and yellow. After cake and ice cream was devoured and the last present opened, guests received a customized candy jar full of treats to remember the unforgettable day.
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embrace E
mbrace your moment. Henry County offers affordable and unforgettable weddings that will create memories to last a lifetime. Choose from historic homes, elegant conference centers and hotels and magical outdoor venues —
Comfortably South of Atlanta.
www.visithenrycountygeorgia.com
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DEVEN + CLIFF
real wedding
I
n September of 2007, single dad Cliff took his daughter with him to make a deposit at his local bank. It was there that he met Deven, a Spelman student, who was waiting in line behind them and commented on Cliff’s hair style that he’d done for daughter Jasmine. That casual remark led to a discussion of common interests, and the two soon began dating. Cliff had recently been diagnosed with renal failure and was to start dialysis a month later, but Deven’s instant attraction to Cliff kept her by his side as he began a series of life altering events. Though Cliff’s illness changed many parts of their lives, there was no doubt in their minds; they knew that they were meant to be together. Financial concerns aside, Cliff asked Deven to marry him, and once she accepted, he began praying for a way to give her the wedding of her dreams. In November 2010, with the help of WISH UPON A WEDDING ATLANTA and LEMIGA EVENTS, the pair were granted their breathtaking day, simply themed: “Fall in love.” The sweet sentiment inspired warm hues of tangerine, cream, gold and brown, from the bridesmaids dresses, to the bouquets, to the delectable four tiered-cake provided by SWEET SENSATIONS.
Cake
SWEET SENSATIONS created a
four tier cake modeled after the wedding invitation and inspired by the fall season. Tangerine colored sugar-mums and black scrolling font detailing made the delicious cake extra appetizing.
Flowers
Using a multitude of dendrobium orchids, vendela roses, tulips and other seasonally inspired blossoms, PERFECT CREATIONS AND DESIGN provided the dramatic arrangements that impressed Deven, Cliff and guests alike.
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Both the ceremony and reception were held at the beautiful W BUCKHEAD, the hotel walls draped in rich fabric exuding the intimate atmosphere both Deven and Cliff had hoped to create for their guests. At the end of their monogrammed aisle runner, the couple said “I do” in front of 50 of their closest friends and family. As the couple cherished their first dance together as husband and wife, a video of the two recalling how they first met played throughout the ballroom. Guests dined on unique appetizers and a savory dinner creation by MARKET at the W Hotel Buckhead. Cliff and Deven then cut their wedding cake, and by doing so officially declaring the party started! After a night of laughter, fun and a whole lot of dancing, Deven and Cliff escaped to Hilton Head, South Carolina, to enjoy a relaxing honeymoon together as newlyweds. Wish upon a Wedding is the world’s first non-profit organization granting wedding and vow renewal wishes to couples facing life threatening illnesses and life altering circumstances regardless of sexual orientation.
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHY: Janet Howard Studio VENUE AND CATERING: W Buckhead FLORAL: Perfect Creations and Design PLANNER: Lemiga Events DRAPERY: Event Drapery VIDEO: Three Ring Weddings LIGHTING: MAGNUM Companies STATIONERY: Luxe Expressions RENTALS: Event Rentals Unlimited CAKE: Sweet Sensations GELATO DESSERT: Dreamy Gelato DJ: Lethal Rhythms LINENS: I Do Linens MAKEUP: The Moore Agency WEDDING GOWN: Belles and Beaus BRIDE’S JEWELRY: Stella & Dot TUX: King Tuxedo Rental TRANSPORTATION: Cooper Atlanta
MELINDA + BEN
real wedding
F
or bride Melinda, life had always been well choreographed. Growing up a gymnast and eventually cheering for The University of Georgia, she was definitely one to appreciate a well executed plan. That’s why in April of 2009, when then-boyfriend Ben surprised her by proposing on the football field of UGA’s Sanford Stadium -- their entire families present -- she knew he’d be a keeper. Interested in a wedding that celebrated their shared Chinese heritage as well as western wedding traditions, the pair married at the Peachtree Christian Church with an elegant reception at THE GEORGIAN TERRACE HOTEL. Sushi boats and other traditional Chinese food from HSU’S GOURMET AND PACIFIC RIM BISTRO welcomed guests into the reception ballroom where the bride and groom had one more performance up their sleeve. Minutes into their first dance, the two broke out into an elaborately choreographed foxtrot to the Mary J. Blige hit “Just Fine,” thrilling guests and kicking the evening off with an undeniable bang! When asked if she could change one thing about her wedding, Melinda’s reply is simple: “My only wish is that the wedding could have lasted longer than one day!” But with no rewind button available to make her request a reality, Ben and Melinda settled for spending eight dreamlike days honeymooning on the beautiful islands of Maui and Kaui.
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHY: Esther JuLee Photography EVENT PLANNER: Peachtree Weddings & Events VENUE: The Georgian Terrace CATERING: Hsu’s Gourmet & Pacific Rim Bistro DECOR: Blossoms Atlanta VIDOEGRAPHER: Everything Wedding MUSIC: Ches Eaton FAVORS: Krispy Kreme STATIONERY: Paper Affair CAKE: Sweet N’ Sinful
MEREDITH + HAROLD
real wedding
A
s a little girl spending summers swimming at the CAPITAL CITY CLUB, Meredith Dieterie always envisioned herself marrying at the historic property. After moving to New York city, where she fell in love with and became engaged to her Long Island beau Harold, she was able to make her childhood dream a reality. “It was a fantastic opportunity for my husband, from New York, and me to show his family and friends my roots,” said Meredith, “to give them an old -fashioned dose of southern hospitality.” Following a traditional ceremony at the historic Peachtree Christian Church, guests were invited to an southern, dapper reception at the Capital City Club. Never the type to take themselves too seriously, the couple offered a signature cocktail dubbed “The Merold;” the moniker was a nickname given to them by a close friend. Acknowledging both the bride and groom’s upbringing, there was a build your own grits station as well as a raw seafood bar. RUPERT’S ORCHESTRA provided the soundtrack to the evening, playing Motown favorites that kept guests (including Harold’s grandmother!) on the floor all night long. Though the night was undoubtedly sophisticated, Meredith declared that “there was nothing stuffy about the bogeying that took place!” In lieu of wedding cake, a KRISPY KREME donut cake was served, offering guests a fresh take on the traditional dessert. It was a hit! The night was merry and memorable, just as the bride and groom had hoped. 156 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
Style Source PHOTOGRAPHY: Kristen Alexander Photography VENUE AND CATERING: Capital City Country Club FLORAL: Darryl Wiseman Flowers DJ: Atlanta Sound and Fury RENTALS: Creative Tables by Valerie Levin COORDINATOR AND STATIONERY: Creative Events by Susan Pando VIDEOGRAPHER: Bryan Wetzel Videographer BAND: Rupert’s Orchestra MAKEUP: The Moore Agency TRANSPORTATION: Historic Marietta Trolley, American Coach, AA Limo
SARAH RACHEL LEISS
real bat mitzvah
E
ven though Sarah Rachel Leiss is only thirteen, she’s already learned one of the keys to throwing a wonderful event: make it unique, and make it your own. Celebrating her Bat Mitzvah at the beautiful BUCKHEAD CLUB, Sarah infused her personality into every detail. After guests enjoyed a simultaneous cocktail and “kids only” dance floor hour, everyone took their seats for dinner at tables designed and decorated by Sarah herself. Inspiring the ballroom’s decor was Sarah’s love for all things equestrian. Each table was named for a horse special to Sarah. Tables held centerpieces of hand painted horseshoes, competition ribbons and a custom logo designed by Sarah’s brother. An extravagant four course kosher dinner soon followed, and guests quickly found themselves on the dance floor grooving to sounds provided by VIBE ENTERTAINMENT. A giant ice cream sundae buffet with more than thirty toppings was the big finish of the night, satisfying every last sweet tooth. Sarah’s mother Elizabeth Leiss sums up the success of the night best. “Sarah had a fabulous time. It was great seeing her among her friends and family with a constant smile on her face.”
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Style Source PHOTOGRAPHY: Mitzvah Man Photo VENUE AND CATERING: The Buckhead Club DECOR: Balloonacy Atlanta PHOTO BOOTH: Button It Up STATIONERY: Roberta Greenspon ENTERTAINMENT: Get Airbrushed MUSIC: Vibe Entertainment
PARTING FAVORITES
Photos by Kristen Alexander Photography
SPREAD THE LOVE
O
h, hello! It looks like you’ve made it to our last -- very special -- page. Our last new feature of our better- than- ever- issue is what we’re calling “Parting Favorites.” It’s a place where we will showcase the best party favors and thank you’s around. Crafty, modern, vintage or boutique, we’ve got it all here, and we’re dying to share them with you. Shall we? For our premiere installment, we proudly present the -lick- your- lips deliciousness that is EMILY G’S JAM OF LOVE. That’s a serious name for a serious jam. But what do you expect when two moms, both with a mean culinary background, team up to create dazzling spreads in flavors like Tipsy Onion and Garlic, Rhubarb Marmalade, Mango Tango and Apple Pie? Emily G’s is handcrafted right here in Atlanta and we’re willing to bet your guests will be as crazy about them as we are. Perfect party favor? Check. Available in multiple sizes and complete with personalized gift tags to boot, this southern treasure has crowd favorite written all over it. Visit www.emilygs.com for more information on how to order!
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