Hickory Living April 2023

pages 18-19

Wedding pages

pages 21-31

Welcome to the April Issue!

By Kathy Wheeler

Spring is in full swing! It’s time to get outdoors and work in your flower beds––getting them cleaned up and ready for planting. You can spend April planning your flower gardens, but wait until May to plant annuals to avoid them potentially freezing.

Easter is Sunday, April 9. While you’re working in your flower beds, tidy up the yard in preparation for an Easter egg hunt with the kids!

After April 15th, the Hickory Farmer’s Market will be open Under the Sails Saturdays from 8am until 1pm and on Wednesdays from 10am until 2pm. It’s another opportunity to spend some

time outdoors and maybe take a stroll on the City Walk. Make plans to attend the 19th Annual Hickory Hops Craft Beer & Music Festival on Union Square, April 15th from 1pm until 6pm. Visit hickoryhops.com for tickets and more information.

Our cover story this month features Paws, Whiskers & Wags and Horsia Funeral Services. They are a pet-exclusive cremation service dedicated to offering your pet the same level of care and service given to humans. Their article begins on page 10.

Advanced Medical Care is our business spotlight. Offering urgent care, primary

care, and can manage chronic medical conditions, this practice is independently owned and operated. Read their article on page 16.

Check out pages 18 and 19 for our Summer Camp pages. Now is the time to register your children for summer fun!

Spring is the perfect time for weddings. If you are planning your nuptials, this issue is for you! Find advice and venues to help with the planning starting on page 21.

Thank you for reading the April issue of Hickory Living! We hope you enjoy all that April has to offer.

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A Passion for Compassion in Pet Cremation

By Kathy Wheeler | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

There is a reason why our pets have received the “Best Friend” title. They are so much more than just animals— they are loving members of our families—they hold a special place in our hearts. They are loyal and love us unconditionally. They listen when no one else is interested and bring comfort when we feel sad. The way we handle their end-oflife is our last act of love and kindness toward them. Paws, Whiskers & Wags and Horsia Funeral Services are here to walk you through the journey of pet cremation.

Founders Christine Hunsaker and Cindi Branch started Paws, Whiskers & Wags following the death of their beloved poodle, Casey, in 2005. They were disappointed in the lack

of options and respectful care available to pet owners and their furry friends. Both women had 20 years of experience in the human cremation and funeral industry. Christine’s father owned and operated a funeral home, and she later ran the largest human cremation company in North America. Cindi’s experience was working with the largest provider of funeral, cemetery, and crematory services in the world. Together, Christine and Cindi wanted to offer pet-owners the same level of care and service given to humans.

“Paws, Whiskers & Wags is the first of its kind as a petexclusive, full-service funeral home,” said Christine. Every employee is an animal lover with fur-babies of their own.

Most of them have previously used Paws, Whiskers & Wags’ cremation services for their own pets. They know that pets are just as important as any human family member and deserve the same respect and care that any other relative would receive at a funeral home. Their compassionate team provides pet owners with unparalleled service in their state-of-the-art facilities. PWW also operates under Veternity, a company founded in 1995 by a small group of veterinarians. Veternity’s primary goal is to improve animal welfare by connecting families with the best pet funeral services available.

Paws, Whiskers & Wags and Horsia have five locations across North Carolina and Georgia. The Hudson/Hickory campus is their newest facility. Conveniently located off Hickory Boulevard, they serve Catawba, Caldwell, Alexander, and Burke counties.

WHAT SETS THEM APART?

Your pet is cremated on-site at the Hickory location. PWW’s patented Pet Tracker 360 ensures that you receive only your pet’s remains with private cremation. How does it work? A small medical grade, stainless steel disc is attached to the foot of your pet to identify them. This disk never leaves your pet throughout transport and the cremation process. This level of care is required by law for human cremation but is unregulated for pets. “Regardless of regulation, our Pet Tracker 360 is a part of our process and the only way to guarantee that the ashes you receive are those of your pet and no one else’s,” said Jason Christenbury, manager of the Hickory location. Your pet’s ashes will be placed in a temporary container for you, and the process can usually be completed within 24 to 48 hours.

“We have an open-door policy and no appointments are needed. If you prefer, you can bring your pet directly to our facility after they pass away. One of our experienced client advocates will assist you to make final arrangements,” said Jason. “Our staff can also make house calls and carefully transport your pet from your home or the veterinarian’s office.” Paws, Whiskers & Wags strives to stay at the forefront of technology with an online portal for veterinary clients that utilize Pet Tracker 360 to provide a chain of custody for each pet.

Photos: On the cover–From left to right– Jason Christenbury, location manager, Erin Schmidt, marketing director, and Kevin Ledford, regional manager

Opposite page–Paws, Whiskers & Wags and Horsia Funeral Services is conveniently located on Hwy 321 in Hudson

Photos, top to bottom:

• The chapel is available to pet owners at no cost.

• One of three private rooms to accommodate families

• A variety of beautiful urns and keepsakes can be purchased for your pet’s ashes.

PERSONALIZING THE CREMATION

Everyone grieves differently. Some families prefer a larger, formal funeral gathering; some desire a smaller, intimate meeting; and others want to take no more than a quiet last moment with their pet. Whatever you prefer, Paws, Whiskers & Wags can accommodate you. Their Hudson location includes a beautiful chapel that families can use to host their pet’s funeral service. They also have three large, quiet family rooms where pet owners can have a final viewing/visitation with their loved one. One family room is equipped with a window where family and friends can witness the cremation process, if they so desire. There are no additional charges for use of the chapel, family rooms, or to witness the cremation.

COMMEMORATING YOUR PET

“We want to help families celebrate the life of their pet and provide ways of remembering the love they shared,” said Christine. Studies have shown that writing down memories of your loved one can be very beneficial. It pays tribute to the deceased, records their history, and can help you through the grieving process. Plus, it allows you to connect with a community of others going through similar loss. Paws, Whiskers & Wags offers online pet obituaries, a weekly Memorial Monday feature on social media, and yearly celebration-of-life videos.

PWW has an ever-expanding gallery of urns and memorials. These can be viewed at their facility or on their website, and many have personalization or engraving options available. They offer everything from locally-crafted wooden urns and contemporary styles to artisan, handblown glass jewelry…there’s a selection to suit everyone.

HELP WITH YOUR GRIEF

“Losing a pet is a traumatic experience for families, and we want to help support them through their grief,” said Cindi. She has developed many ways to assist families and compiled a wealth of information and resources on their website. Paws, Whiskers & Wags provides a way to connect through a virtual pet loss support group. You can register online for bi-monthly Zoom meetings. Cindi’s list of suggested books, articles, and other websites will help you and your children through the grieving process.

PLANNING AHEAD

Pre-planning arrangements can be made for your pet’s aftercare. This is a way to ensure that they are taken care of to your specifications in case something happens to you. There is a form online to help you prepare and estimate costs.

TESTIMONIALS

The level of care your pet receives and the compassion shown to their loved ones by the staff of Paws, Whiskers & Wags is best expressed through testimonials.

David M. said, “Making this call was the hardest thing I’ve ever done but the woman I spoke with on the phone was so kind and caring that it made the process so much easier. I had never cremated a pet before but was very happy I did. It allowed me to bring a level of respect to my dear cat that would not have been possible by leaving her with the vet to handle. They also made a paw imprint that has turned out to be much more meaningful to me than I would have thought. I am very happy with the caring and professionalism of this company and can highly recommend them.”

Dylan G. expressed, “When the love of my life, my dear Jasper, finally succumbed to cancer, the level of compassion and professionalism Paws, Whiskers and Wags exhibited was incomparable. To this day, I am so grateful for them and the way they handled my baby. When the time comes for my other girls to depart, they will be cremated by PW&W and them ONLY.”

HORSIA FUNERAL SERVICES

Equines can now also receive the same treatment as your smaller pets from Paws, Whiskers & Wags. Horsia Funeral Services can arrange dignified transport of your beloved horse, pony, or donkey and offers private, wholebody cremation, as well as hoofprint and hair keepsakes to give you a way to honor your companion.

When the time comes…and you need their services… Paws, Whiskers & Wags and Horsia Funeral Services will take care of you and your pet. They understand that the loss of your furry friend can be just as sensitive as human losses—your heart doesn’t discriminate. Their staff of compassionate animal lovers will help you through your journey of honoring your pet, preserving their memory, and offering support for your grief.

3546 Hickory Blvd • Hudson, NC 28638

(828) 212-0941

Mon – Fri: 9 am – 5 pm • Call for weekend services

www.pawswhiskersandwags.com

www.horsia.com

Photos, top to bottom:

• Pet owners can witness the cremation if they choose to do so for no additional charge.

• Transportation is available to and from your home or veterinary hospital.

• The latest technology and finely maintained equipment allow Paws Whiskers & Wags and Horsia Funeral Services to set the highest standard in the pet funeral industry.

More Than Urgent Care

By Kathy Wheeler | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

If you have a life-threatening illness or injury, a hospital emergency room is the place you need to go. However, if you’ve ever been to the ER for a minor condition, you know the wait can be excruciatingly long. With Advanced Medical Care in Newton, we now have a more convenient alternative. The practice is privately owned and operated by physicians and healthcare providers with many years of emergency medicine experience. They know what to do in an emergency, and in most non-life-threatening cases, they can keep patients out of a hospital environment.

Owners Dr. Keith Hughlett, Dr. Ivan Sanchez, and Chad Hensley, FNP-BC opened Advanced Medical Care to serve their community with exceptional urgent care. Dr. Hughlett completed his residency in emergency medicine at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan and has been an emergency physician in North Carolina for more than 25 years. Dr. Sanchez served as EMS medical director in Cleveland County for over 15 years and has been an emergency physician for more than 25 years. He’s bilingual in English and Spanish which helps the practice assist the Hispanic Latino community.

Chad has more than 16 years of nurse practitioner experience serving patients in emergency departments and other healthcare settings.

URGENT CARE, PRIMARY CARE, AND CHRONIC MEDICAL CONDITIONS

“Hospital emergency departments are a very stressful environment,” said Chad. “We wanted to take more time with patients, treating a lot of injuries and conditions that many people go to the ER for.” Their capabilities are extensive. For example, they can suture wounds, splint injuries, and treat minor burns.

Photos, Opposite page: Owners Dr. Ivan Sanchez, Chad Hensley, FNP-BC, and Dr. Keith Hughlett with Sandra Shifflet, office manager

Dr. Sanchez is shown examining a patient. He’s bilingual in English and Spanish which helps him assist the Hispanic/Latino patients.

Right–Dr. Hughlett in Advance Medical Care’s in-house lab.

Chad discussing up-coming appointments and staffing for the day.

They offer IV medications for migraines and fluids for dehydration. Maybe you have an illness or a chronic condition like high blood pressure, diabetes, or asthma, and can’t get a timely appointment with your physician. Advanced Medical Care’s providers can see you quickly, no appointment required, and help you manage those conditions. “We have many patients who see us regularly for their primary care needs,” Dr. Hughlett said. “So we aren’t just an urgent care.” Their team of health

care professionals can diagnose many issues quickly with their in-house lab providing timely treatment.

AFFORDABLE CARE

“Because we are independently owned, we can offer our medical services at an affordable price. We are an especially good solution for those with catastrophic, high-deductible insurance without a co-pay,” said Dr. Sanchez. “We offer transparent pricing for our services, and each patient will know and understand the cost of their care prior to treatment.”

Detailed invoices are provided for patients to file with their insurance to either be reimbursed or applied to their deductible.”

Advanced Medical Care’s dedicated staff of providers looks forward to helping you with all levels of care. For more information, visit their website or their office in Newton.

Advanced Medical Care

2180 Northwest Blvd, Newton, NC (828) 482-4740

Open Monday – Friday 9AM-6PM advancedmedicalcarenc.com

The Hickory area offers SUMMER CAMPS for kids of all ages and interests.

NOW’S THE TIME TO RESERVE THEIR PLACE IN CAMP!

2023 Wedding PAGES

When a couple gets married, it represents the beginning of their lives together, their love for each other, and their commitment. It is a day to be remembered and celebrated for years to come. The importance of the day requires it to be special and unique with plenty of personal touches.

The average couple hires 15 to 25 vendors for their wedding. The personal touches can get lost when handling so many moving parts. It is important to have professionals who can help organize your day, freeing you up to focus on those things that make it YOUR wedding! On the following pages, you will find articles with good advice and ideas, and venues that offer lots of amenities to make your wedding prep easier.

Featuring one of our Best of the Foothills Winners Hidden Hill Wedding & Event Venue voted 2022 Best Wedding Venue

Photos:

Above–top to bottom–Hidden Hill Venue

• Spectacular mountain views

• The Parker’s daughter, Ashley

• A covered patio ceremony

• Owners David and Terri Parker

It is not surprising that Hidden Hill Wedding & Event Venue was voted best wedding venue in Hickory Living’s 2022 Best of the Foothills. It is beautifully located on Burkemont Mountain in Morganton with gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is so stunning that David and Terri Parker purchased the property about a year ago after their daughter, Ashley, was married there. They fell in love with Hidden Hill and have since warmly welcomed guests celebrating their special day.

The venue features multiple areas to host weddings and receptions both indoors and out. With just the perfect combination of rustic elegance, the indoor, fully heated and air-conditioned facility can comfortably seat 200 guests and offers separate bride and groom suites. Nestled on 11 acres, there are several options for outdoor ceremonies and events, from a lovely, covered patio complete with a gas fireplace and outdoor lighting to a hilltop setting that overlooks the valley below and mountains beyond. With panoramic views from everywhere on the property, what more could you ask for?! Hidden Hill provides an experience that you, your family, and friends will always remember!

It’s important to know what is included in your rental. Amenities can offer couples tremendous savings. At Hidden Hill, you have use of the grounds from 9am until 11pm with five hours set aside for your event. This gives you time for photographs, ceremony, reception, setup, and cleanup. You have access to wooden farmhouse tables, folding rectangular and round tables. Mahogany Chivari chairs for your reception, white folding chairs for the ceremony, and antique furniture are all available for your use. On-site staff is there to help with your customized event layout, parking, cleanup, and trash removal. Hidden Hill also offers access to the venue prior to your wedding date for bridal portraits with your photographer, as well as great communication throughout your planning process! You not only get a beautiful location but a lot of extras with this venue!

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience on your wedding day, call Hidden Hill Wedding & Event Venue.

Olivia Taylor Photography

Reg & Kala Photography

Victoria Grace Photography

Hidden Hill is set on 11 acres of hillside on Burkemont Mountain with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This wedding venue offers the best in indoor/outdoor entertaining!

• Modern & elegant farmhouse venue

• Multiple ceremony site options

• Suites for both bride and groom

• Accommodates 200 indoors

Miranda Lee Photography

Olivia Taylor Photography

Reg & Kala Photography

Reg & Kala Photography

LIVINGHickory

2023 Wedding Trends

By Kathy Wheeler

Weddings have become less about tradition and more about the personalities, interests, and styles of the couple. This year, look for extensive guest lists with grand parties. Maximalism is back! Some couples are choosing large, formal weddings, while others are choosing more intimate ceremonies with extravagant receptions. From mid-day ceremonies and evening receptions to weekend itineraries starting with a welcome party, one major priority is guest experience.

RECEPTIONS

With the over-the-top weddings, you will see large floral displays and ceiling installations in venues and tents. Upscale table displays with fine china and fine dining experiences are perfect for the maximalist wedding. Mini dessert tables and extravagant wedding cakes with toppers are trending. Buttercream will be favored over fondant. Culinary artists are painting with buttercream just like an artist paints with oils.

One theme that works well with the maximalist wedding is the Barbiecore trend. Inspired by Mattel’s doll, Barbie, think pink and elaborate! Other popular themes this year are western, butterflies, and the 70s with disco balls everywhere!

Wedding reception entertainment is all about the guests. Bands are taking the stage and packing dance floors with dance contests and DJs for Karaoke. But think outside the box. Couples are planning things like Las Vegas casino tables, trivia, scavenger hunts, funny presentations…lots of creative, fun party ideas. Your theme and the age range of your guests should play a role.

Signage has become a normal part of weddings, and in 2023, look for custom neon signs. Photo booths, with strips of black and white photos, are a vintage alternative to the hashtag-era of digital photo booths taken with your phone. Look for speakeasy-style bars instead of signature drinks.

CEREMONY

This year, you may see fewer attendants in the bridal party. Oh, and the terms we use are now more inclusive. FYI, “wedding party” or “wedding attendants” are replacing “bridal party.” You may see attendants sitting during the ceremony instead of standing. Also, pets are becoming part of more ceremonies.

THE DRESS

In 2023, lace is back and long veils are trending! You will see gowns with long sleeves or long gloves as an accessory. White is the classic choice but some brides are choosing floral patterns or solid colors for their wedding gown.

New options for bridesmaids’ dresses are still trending. It’s a great idea. Not everyone looks good in the same color or style. Some brides are selecting a dress length but switching up the style and color palette, while others are sticking with one color and allowing bridesmaids to choose different styles. Terracotta has become a favorite color, especially for fall weddings.

RINGS

Mined diamonds are being replaced with more sustainable and affordable choices like lab-created diamonds and moissanite. If you were to compare costs for a 1-carat stone, a mined diamond would cost three times as much as a lab created diamond, and 10 times as much as a moissanite stone. Mined and lab created diamonds rate 10 on the hardness scale and moissanite rates 9.25. With a cost savings like that, you might want to buy a larger stone, or there are plenty of things you can spend the savings on!

Weddings have become very customized to each couple and their interests. At Hickory Living, we hope you enjoy the planning as much as the event itself. Here’s wishing you beautiful life together for many years to come.

©iStockphoto.com | Artem Zakharov

In a renovated 150-year-old historic Warehouse in downtown Hickory on the newly established city walk, Warehouse 18 is a perfect combination of rustic, vintage, and elegance. With its original wood beams, exposed brick, and chandeliers, it is 10,000 square feet of wedding planning bliss. Add in a customized catering package, two full-service, licensed bars, and a list of vendors to help you with the rest, and your wedding and reception are planned!

The Warehouse can accommodate from 50 to 500 people, with two spaces to choose from or combine.

One side is more formal and has chandeliers over the tables with elegant cushioned chairs, while the other side of the venue has farmhouse tables with two large chandeliers in the center. There is a beautiful bridal suite and groomsmen’s lounge equipped with a pool table and dartboard. In addition to the vast indoor space, there is an expansive outdoor patio and a charming hidden garden. The options are endless!

charges or surprises. Chairs and tables are included in the venue rental, and ample parking is available. You just have to add your personal touch!

When you are looking for comfort and convenience from a great wedding venue without sacrificing style, class, elegance, and price—Warehouse 18 is the first choice. For more information, visit them online and start your booking or schedule an on-site visit.

www.warehouse18venues.com

• Wedding Ceremony

• Reception

• Rehearsal Dinner

• Bridal Shower

• Bridal and Groomsmen Suites

• Catering

• Two Licensed Full-Service Bars

• Prime Downtown Location

• Adjacent Boutique Airbnb

Warehouse 18 Venues

18 2nd Street SE, Hickory, NC 1-828-320-0037

www.warehouse18venues.com

The staff at Warehouse 18 enjoy working with couples and within their budgets to get them the most for their money. They go over all the details with you so that there are no hidden

Help Planning Your Wedding

By Cheryl Grant

There are a lot of resources available to you when planning your wedding. Pinterest is a wonderful website for ideas early on but beware of spending time browsing its pages once you’ve established what you want to do. It can turn into a budget-breaker and consume your time with more details than you can afford or implement.

A good wedding planner can be worth their weight in gold. We typically view their role as providing help during the event to keep things running smoothly, allowing you and your family to enjoy yourselves with little responsibility. While that is a big part of what they do, hiring a planner early on in the process can save you a lot of research, leg work, and money. They have a list of businesses in the industry they have previously worked with and trust. From caterers and venues to entertainment suggestions and florists, it is their business to know who to call and what’s available within your budget. Coordinating all the pieces removes a lot of stress and frees you up to do more of the fun stuff, and wedding planners can

help with compromises when couples have a different vision of what their wedding should look like.

If you have a particular venue you want to use, check with them to see what is included. Don’t just look at the initial cost, but also what is available to you through your venue rental. Some provide a lot of amenities and services that you would otherwise have to pay for. For instance, if you are having an outdoor ceremony, do they have an indoor space you can use in case it rains? Do they provide tables and chairs? What staff will be there to help? Also, ask if they have a preferred list of vendors. They like working with people and businesses that are familiar with their policies and have experience with their facility. This is another time-saver and allows you to focus on the finer details that will make your wedding your own.

Use the skills of family and friends. Do you have relatives and friends who are craftsmen or have special talents? Those close to you would consider it a labor of love and be honored to help you with your wedding day. Work with

them to create exclusive items for your wedding. Always be willing to pay them for their labor and cost of materials. However, many times they will donate their time and maybe the materials as a wedding gift. When asking for these favors, always be considerate and give them ample time to produce their creation. You want it to be something that you love and they are proud of.

Do you have a friend who’s a talented graphic artist? Their skills can be used for invitations and signage. A family member who is a seamstress can help with custom table coverings or really any detail involving fabric. Wood craftsmen and metal artists can help with custom arbors or signage. Their love for you and their craft can create one-of-a-kind details that make your wedding one to remember. The possibilities are endless.

Just know that when planning your wedding, you don’t have to do it all yourself. Use the resources available to you and spend your time on the details you enjoy!

©iStockphoto.com | Goldenberg

Nestled beside the South Fork of the Catawba River between Hickory and Charlotte, just on the outskirts of Lincolnton, is The Laboratory Mill. The venue is beautiful inside and out with two event spaces. The upstairs is perfect for weddings and receptions, complete with large suites for the bridal party and one for the groom and his men. Downstairs, the Cardroom has a completely different look. It is cozy with brick walls and a speakeasy feel. Many choose the Cardroom for their rehearsal dinner. Add plenty of parking and a great staff, and you have an exceptional venue for all your wedding planning.

The Mill is a photographer’s dream! On the property are gorgeous views of the river, waterfalls, and even a beach—perfect locations for wedding photos!

ASK WHAT’S INCLUDED!

“Searching for venues can be like comparing apples and oranges,” said Cyndi Dellinger, owner of The Laboratory Mill with her hus-

band, John. “We provide upfront pricing, tax is included, and tips are always optional, so there are no surprises at the end of the day. The price also includes tables, chairs, and linens—no separate rentals needed,” Cyndi continued. We have golf carts to help guests get to and from their cars in the lower parking lots, if needed. And, most importantly, our staff concentrates on helping the wedding go as smoothly as possible. We have a dedicated concierge for the bridal party, staff who assist with parking, and a floor manager the day of the event. We always have staff on hand to answer questions or provide assistance.”

To help with your planning, The Laboratory Mill has a list of recommended wedding professionals, from florists and DJs to approved caterers. Their recommendations can take care of a lot of the work in creating your perfect day.

A RICH HISTORY

The Laboratory Mill was originally built in 1818 as a cotton

factory but burned during the Civil War. Since waterpower was still available, it was then used as a laboratory to turn locally grown, indigenous plants into medicine for the Confederate troops. After the war, the mill was rebuilt into its current footprint by D.E. Rhyne and was operational until the 1990s as a yarn manufacturing plant. After being boarded up for more than a decade, it was donated by the Rhyne family to Preservation North Carolina who then sold it to John and Cyndi Dellinger in 2007.

It took five and a half years to renovate. Among many other changes, floors were repaired, bricked up windows were restored, the roof was replaced, and a house-moving company even jacked up one end of the mill so supporting pillars could be built to fix settling from previous water damage. The Laboratory Mill opened for its first official wedding in August of 2013. Many people who live in the area have parents and grandparents who worked in the mill, and the Dellingers are proud to be a continuing part of the rich history of the Laboratory Community.

For more information, visit www.thelaboratorymill. com, and take a virtual tour of the facility and grounds or call 704-240-4718 to schedule an inperson tour. You will fall in love!

Photos: Left–The Cardroom is located downstairs at The Laboratory Mill. (Photo by Allison Lee Isley) Right–The large venue upstairs is perfect for weddings and receptions. (Photo Angel Kincaid Photography)

Photos:

• The Barn lit up at night

• Darrin and Rebecca Lackey

• Ceremony on the patio

Coming In May... A New Wedding Venue The Barn

est. 2023

WEDDING & EVENT VENUE

Located in the foothills of North Carolina, The Barn at Elk Shoal Creek is an event venue with beautiful sunsets and a calm and peaceful vibe. Owners Darrin and Rebecca Lackey have been renovating the property for over a year and their plans continue to grow. Darrin inherited the 55-acre farm from his family, and his great grandfather originally built the barn with lumber milled on the property in 1942. Rebecca, being the creative soul that she is, had always wanted a wedding venue and the barn, creek, and property are the perfect setting for her vision. She calls it, “My little slice of heaven.”

The barn has 3,000 square feet of indoor space that clients can use for their event. The downstairs hosts a kitchen and groomsmen suite and the upstairs seats 150 people comfortably. The lean-to on the side is an additional 600 square feet of covered outdoor space with doors leading into the barn downstairs. On the property, they have added a beautifully furnished bridal cottage with rest rooms, and a cocktail barn that is another 800 square feet of covered space. With multiple outdoor and indoor areas for ceremonies and receptions, you will love this venue and its versatility.

Elk Shoal Creek runs along the banks beside the barn and creates a gorgeous setting for photographers. Chandeliers and outdoor lighting add to the ambiance of the barn and bridal cottage. Round and rectangular tables, linens, and chairs are provided by this venue, so all you have to do is add the details!

To reserve your date or for a tour of the farm, contact Rebecca Lackey at elkshoalfarm@outlook.com

What’s Cooking?

Steakhouse Twice Baked Potatoes

If you like your potatoes fully loaded at the steakhouse, then you will love these Steakhouse Twice Baked Potatoes.

To make your stuffed spuds truly impressive, pile them high with filling. But my secret to making these spuds spectacular is a little package of Boursin cheese. This creamy French cheese is delicious spread on crackers or dolloped on top of a warm steak, making it the perfect addition to these potatoes.

With their plentiful filling, these potatoes make a lovely presentation for a dinner party, and they also make a perfect addition to your meal prep for the week. They can be refrigerated for two to three days after filling with the potato mixture. Simply reheat in a 400-degree oven for 20-25 minutes. Enjoy!

Steakhouse Twice Baked Potatoes

Servings: 4 • Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hours 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS

4 medium Russet potatoes

Olive oil cooking spray

4 Tbsp. unsalted butter — softened and cubed

1/4 cup sour cream

1 package of Boursin Cheese (we used Garlic & Herb flavor)

3/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. onion powder

3/4 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1-½ cups steamed broccoli — chopped (about ½ of a steamed bag)

½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

FOR GARNISH

3-4 pieces of cooked bacon — chopped into bits

Green onion — chopped

Sour cream

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Wash and dry the potatoes, then pierce each a few times with a fork. To ensure tasty crispy skin, mist the potatoes with olive oil spray, and season all over with salt. Place potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, or until soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 10 to 15 minutes.

When cool enough to handle, cut an oval into the top of each potato, remove and discard. Leaving about ½-inch of the skin around the edge of each potato, scoop out the inside of the potato and place it in a large bowl, leaving a thin layer in the inside of the skins. Return the skins to the baking sheet.

Add the butter, sour cream, Boursin and seasonings to the bowl of potato pulp. Use a hand mixer to blend until smooth. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the broccoli. Divide the filling evenly among the potato shells (I used a cookie scoop to refill the potatoes, and it helped me to pile them high). Finally, sprinkle each with cheddar cheese and bake again for about 15-20 minutes. Serve garnished with bacon, green onion, and a dollop of sour cream.

Kathy Dicken lives in Huntersville and is the author of the food blog, The Tasty Bits. For more meal ideas that are simple and delicious, you can follow her blog at www.thetastybits.com or on Instagram @thetastybits.