www.pixelsonpaper.biz • 704.641.1131
contents 12 22 31 52 66 75 79 86
Breathtaking Outdoor Venues Saving on Sunday Venue Guide A Switch to the High Country High Country Attire Honeymoon Booking Tips Rehearsal Dinner Options Vendor Directory
VISIT US ONLINE AT
www.highcountryweddingguide.com
Rachael Fugate Mills PUBLISHER/EDITOR/GRAPHIC DESIGN Heather Hutcheson ADVERTISING SALES/CONTRIBUTING WRITER Kim Rowland COPY EDITING/CONTRIBUTING WRITER Stacey Wilson CONTRIBUTING WRITER COVER
Charissa Clearman models an Anjolique gown from Did Someone Say Party located in downtown Boone. Hair and makeup by Outersanctum Salon in Boone. Photo shoot location, Eagles Nest in Banner Elk. Story on page 66. SPECIAL THANKS TO CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Matt Powell • Katie Langley • Jonathan Burton David Morrison • Visio Photography
High Country Wedding Guide • P.O. Box 513, Blowing Rock, NC 28605 • 828-773-2767 • highcountryweddingguide@gmail.com
Brian and Lindsey Brian and Lindsey (Yates) Tester of Blowing Rock, NC
Ju ne 20, 2009 Ceremony, First Baptist Church of Blowing Rock Reception, Blowing Rock Country Club Photography, Katie Langley Cake, Hallmark Cakes Reception Music, Laditude Flowers, Petals by Bonnie Coche Transportation, Carolina Carriage Videography, Tom Santay Stationery, Pleasant Papers
Brian and I grew up in the High Country and knew each other throughout high school. We began our relationship several years after graduating, when we became reacquainted through mutual friends. We quickly fell in love, and Brian proposed to me one year later at the Gamekeeper Restaurant. When we began planning, finding the perfect photographer was a priority on our list. We met with several photographers before choosing the fun and remarkable Katie Langley. She was everywhere, all the time, and she truly captured every special moment from the entire weekend! The Whitewater Bluegrass Company from Asheville, N.C. entertained our family and friends and we square danced to the music at Blowing Rock Country Club’s Lake House for our rehearsal dinner. The club served barbecue and old-fashioned bottled soda to over 100 of our family and friends. We had a large wedding party with all of our closest friends beside us. To Brian’s surprise, our ring bearer walked down the aisle, carrying our rings in Brian’s first baseball glove in honor of his love for baseball. After the ceremony, we rode in a horse-drawn carriage to our reception at Blowing Rock Country Club. We danced the night away to music by Laditude. We made our escape in a 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II to spend our wedding night at Gideon Ridge Inn. Out-of-town guests stayed at The Village Inns in Blowing Rock. We prepared gift bags of homemade goodies and other items that reflected the High Country. A bottle of wine for each gift bag was given in our honor from Wine to Water in Boone. The day flew by, but as we reflect on it now, it far surpassed anything we could have imagined. Time stood still, peace and love filled the air, and it was the most romantic day of our lives. It truly was our dream mountain wedding.
Vincent and Courtney Vincent and Courtney (Cutillo) Boccardy of Creston, NC
Ju l y 15, 2009 Venue, Glennon Manor in Blowing Rock Photography, Jamey Fletcher Flowers, Bless Your Heart Catering, Knights on Main Cake, Courtney Boccardy Music, Audan Parks Wedding Coordination, Events by Elizabeth Ashley
The story of Courtney and Vincent really starts with Courtney and Ed. I was married to the love of my life 10 years ago. We had 2 children, Isabella and Nickolas. Then, almost 4 years ago, my husband died from cancer. I was 29 and a widow with a 6 year old and an 18 month oldnot really what you picture happening. Never could I imagine falling in love again. However, Vincent and I met and fell for each other completely. When we decided to marry my children were beyond excited.
Isabella went with me to pick out our dresses. She and I made burlap runners with ribbon along the edges for the tables. She helped to create a candy station for our guests, with all green, brown, and white candies. As a family, we gathered Queen Anne’s lace and small daisies to be used as accent arrangements in old milk glasses. We were married at the Glennon Manor in Blowing Rock and our ceremony was under the apple trees overlooking a small pond. I made the 3-layer chocolate cake filled with Bailey’s Irish mousse and covered in a chocolate ganache, and Vincent made the locust log candle holders that were on the guest’s tables. My bouquet was complete with my late husband’s ring tied to it. We feel that he has been there all along helping Vincent and I find each other, and it was an important symbol of him as our family united. Vincent had rings made for the children like ours and had a special ring exchange with them to symbolize his love and commitment. Everything was like an outdoor fairy tale!
photo by Visio Photography
12 • highcountryweddingguide.com
The
Great Outdoors
by Heather Hutcheson
F
rom expansive mountain top vistas to lush pastoral valleys, North Carolina’s High Country has become one of the leading destination wedding
locations east of the Mississippi. There is something for every taste and every
budget. To give you an idea of where to look, we decided to profile some of the area’s most popular outdoor destination wedding venues. Each venue has its
own unique offering of mountain views, services, accommodations, and menu options. The sky’s the limit of what you may dream. We hope to ignite your imagination with these possibilities.
13 • highcountryweddingguide.com
Banner Elk Winery &Inn The Banner Elk Winery & Inn sits on top of a hill, overlooking an awardwinning winery on the backside of Beech Mountain in Banner Elk, N.C. It is a quaint wedding destination complete with ceremony and reception sites upscale accommodations on property. For an outdoor wedding ceremony, the lawn outside the inn has an arbor with a view looking over the blueberry vineyard. The lawn adjacent to the winery also features a dramatic
photo by Jonathan Burton
14 • highcountryweddingguide.com
backdrop for a sunset ceremony. For the reception, the winery serves as a unique venue where up to 100 guests can easily be served indoors by one of the local catering companies. The eight-suite inn, styled in Tuscan dĂŠcor, accommodates up to 16 people. The beautifully decorated inn features plush and luxurious furnishings and offers the comfort of your very own home. All guests receive breakfast and a complimentary wine tasting with their stay.
Chetola photos by Jonathan Burton
Chetola Resort
Chetola Resort’s long history as a premier vacation destination has become synonymous with a beautiful outdoor wedding venue. Its tranquil pond, home to families of white swans and Canadian geese, is the perfect backdrop for your outdoor wedding. The gazebo can accommodate up to 20 guests, while outside, is a wonderful stage for your ceremony and seating for up to 200 guests. Chetola has two locations for holding your outdoor reception under a big-top tent next to the pond or beside the Manor House, where long-range views of the estate can be enjoyed. If you host an indoor or winter wedding, Chetola now offers new banquet rooms, each with a gas fireplace for added ambience. Along with the on-site restaurant and bar, this venue offers many menu options.
Convenient overnight accommodations is one of 42 rooms at the Bob Timberlake Inn or the many one, two, three, or four bedroom condominiums that are within walking to downtown Blowing Rock. Chetola has great access off Highway 321 and is easy for guests to find. This luxury resort is a great destination wedding location that is convenient to so many High Country attractions. 15 • highcountryweddingguide.com
Westglow photos by Jonathan Burton
Westglow Resort & Spa For true mountain elegance paired with gracious hospitality and the comfort of home, look no further than Westglow Resort & Spa. The West Portico offers a stunning view of Grandfather Mountain and is a popular site for sunset ceremonies. Or, brides may opt for their wedding site to be on the other side of the historic mansion overlooking the vast Blue Ridge mountain-vista. For an intimate wedding of 150 guests or less, Westglow offers customizable wedding packages for all wedding events including the wedding site, rehearsal dinner, and wedding reception, as well as lodging and spa treatments. The resort can be reserved for the entire 16 • highcountryweddingguide.com
weekend so your special day becomes a weekend getaway for everyone. The world-class culinary team will work with you to create a special menu to wow your guests with eclectic cuisine. Your friends and family will not soon forget your celebration at this luxurious mountain-top resort and spa just minutes away from Blowing Rock and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Eagles Nest photos by David Morrison
Eagles Nest
Just outside Banner Elk, the Lodges at Eagles Nest offers a spectacular view of the High Country for the bride who wishes for a more casual, camp-like environment for her wedding.
Directly above the ceremony site is a unique outdoor barbecue pavilion, complete with grill, a grand fireplace, and bar. Nice weather along with outside catering will be necessary for this venue.
The outdoor Heart Rock Amphitheater is a wedding venue that will have your guests talking long after the wedding day is over. Whether your guests are seated at the foot of the amphitheater or around the outdoor fire pits, this venue offers breath-taking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from 5,500 feet above sea level. 17 • highcountryweddingguide.com
The Inn at Crestwood The Inn at Crestwood was originally the private summer home of Claus and Jean Moberg, who acquired the 30-acre estate in 1948. During the renovation process of transforming the home into a luxurious country inn in 2004, great care was taken to keep many of the original details of the house intact. Many of the Inn’s private suites, as well as the three dining rooms, look out over a breath-taking 180-degree view of Grandfather Mountain. A picturesque patio terrace with gazebo and lower lawn to facilitate your wedding ceremony come complete with an arbor, which is the perfect setting for your outdoor wedding. The Inn at Crestwood has all the ameni-
Eseeola Lodge
Eseeola Lodge has become one of the premier wedding locations in the High Country and has several options for holding outdoor weddings. Whether you choose the Eseeola Lodge lawn, the Eseeola Pavilion, or the Camp Yonahnoka with Grandfather Mountain as the backdrop, Eseeola can accommodate wedding events from 30 to 300 guests. Resort Food and Beverage Manager Barbara Pollygus has 12 years of experience attending to details of hundreds of wedding receptions throughout the years. Her expertise and vendor recommendations will ensure perfection on your special day.
18 • highcountryweddingguide.com
ties and services you need to complete your wedding weekend including a full service spa, on-site restaurant and bar, and accommodations ranging from cozy inn rooms, to luxurious suites, to private cottages and villas. You and your guests will be pampered and served by an experienced staff that specializes in weddings.
Convenient guest accommodations are available at the Eseeola Lodge. The premises also host golf, tennis and canoeing as well as superb dining. This inviting mountain resort could be the perfect setting for your most memorable day but needs to be booked well in advance.
Camp Yonahnoka at Eseeola Lodge.
Crestwood & Eseeola photos by Jonathan Burton
Matt and Ashley
Matthew and Ashley (Dawson) Wagoner of Boone, NC
May 16, 2009 Ceremony, First Baptist Church of Boone Reception, Meadowbrook Inn Photography, Liam Photography Flowers, Bless Your Heart Cake, Stick Boy Bread Company Music, Doug Kaufman Groom’s Attire, Did Someone Say Party? Wedding Coordination, Events by Details
After many reassurances that a proposal would have nothing to do with Christmas, Matt proposed to me on Christmas Day, 2008. I was delighted to say “Yes!” to my best friend! We knew immediately we wanted to get married in Boone because we had spent two years in the High Country getting to know each other as friends and becoming a couple. During the rehearsal dinner at Casa Rustica we were showered with advice for our marriage. My mom surprised me with wicker bells that were hand made for her wedding, and originally hung over the door at her mother’s house when she was married. She had them cleaned, filled with calla lilies, and hung on the mantle at Casa Rustica. The day of the wedding, I woke up with an inexpressible joy in my heart to be marrying my best friend. While getting ready at the church, Matt surprised me with a beautiful sapphire and diamond ring that he got at Unforgettable Jewelry for a wedding gift. Thanks to my amazing wedding planners, I didn’t feel like I had to worry about a thing that day! The weather was absolutely beautiful, and I was so excited to walk down the aisle! We recited vows to each other in front of 170 people, and took communion from a beautiful silver cup and platter that my mom had engraved as a gift for us. The communion elements sat next to a candelabra that had been my late grandmother’s. Matt surprised the audience by picking me up for our first kiss before we were joyfully presented as Mr. and Mrs. Matt Wagoner! We headed over to Meadowbrook Inn where we were officially announced as a couple.
Sunday Weddings
On The Rise A local bride shares why Sunday was the perfect day for her by Kim Rowland | Photos by Katie Langley
Ask any Mary, Jane or Sally the first thing that pops into her head when she hears the word ‘Sunday’ and her responses might include: church, rest, relaxation and…wedding? Indeed, Sunday wedding ceremonies are becoming increasingly popular, as more brides discover the economic advantages of hosting their special day on Sunday. Brides who marry on Sunday may even save themselves some stress during planning, as venues tend to have more availability. Vendors grateful for the business on an otherwise slow day may be willing to offer discounts, and there will be more time for the bride and groom to spend with friends and family. “Aaron and I had a fairly short engagement, so many of the vendors we wanted for our wedding were already booked for almost every Saturday of the summer. So, having our wedding on a Sunday 22 • highcountryweddingguide.com
really opened up a lot of opportunities to use the vendors we wanted,” said Amanda Lynn Billings, who exchanged vows with her husband on June 21, 2009 at The Inn at Crestwood in Boone. Event planner, Heather Hutcheson, owner of The Wedding Specialist in Boone, said she only books a couple of Sunday weddings a year, and is more likely to be available on a Sunday. Mandy Poplin, Crestwood’s general manager, said the venue booked about five Sunday weddings in 2009. “Because of a lower demand, brides should be able to negotiate deals with venues and have more choices in vendors,” said Katie Matthews of Events by Details. And according to Mandy, the spaces available at Crestwood for weddings and receptions are “considerably discounted” on Sundays. The discount offered to the Billings by The Inn at Crestwood certainly sweetened the panoramic, mountain view from
the Inn’s lawn for Amanda and Aaron on their wedding day.
guests even trumped the penny-pinching factor for the Billings.
“I think that many vendors don’t expect to make much money on Sundays anyway, so they are willing to drop prices,” Amanda said.
“My favorite thing about having my wedding on Sunday is that we had the whole weekend to spend with friends and family from out of town,” said Amanda.
Aside from the venue, the couple received discounts from photographer Katie Langley and floral designer Millefleurs. Heather appreciates Sunday weddings for another reason. She offers a variety of services, and said if she has an event on Friday or Saturday, she has time to finish and be available for a rehearsal on Saturday and wedding on Sunday. The extra weekend time that comes hand-in-hand with a Sunday wedding is a bonus factor for friends and family, as well. Savoring more time with their
24 • highcountryweddingguide.com
In lieu of the traditional ceremony rehearsal, Amanda and Aaron’s guests began arriving on Friday evening for the rehearsal scheduled Saturday morning. Friday night provided some quality time cooking-out with the wedding party. The ceremony rehearsal was finished early Saturday afternoon, freeing up the rest of the day for some fun. “Saturday was such a wonderful, relaxing day,” said Amanda. After the rehearsal, the women enjoyed a bridal luncheon at Bistro Roca, and the men headed for
some adventure at Scream Time Zipline just outside town. Amanda had the afternoon to pack for her honeymoon and bond with her bridesmaids. The wedding party reassembled that evening for a traditional rehearsal dinner at Chetola Resort’s Manor House Restaurant. By the time the actual event rolled around, “Everyone from the wedding party all knew each other pretty well. Everyone got along so well that you could just feel the sense of love and friendship in the room,” Amanda reminisced. Guests often benefit from Sunday weddings with discounted room rates on Sunday night bookings. Crestwood takes the opportunity to use its lower occupancy on Sundays to lavish more attention on the wedding couple and their guests.
25 • highcountryweddingguide.com
“We aren’t competing with dinner guests,” said Mandy, so the staff is able to focus more on assisting the wedding party and attendees, while savoring the business on a day normally considered slow in the hospitality industry. The camaraderie, along with the extra money in their pockets, can certainly bring smiles to guests’ faces, for wedding photographers to capture. Katie Langley, a wedding photographer based in Boone, said she books three to six Sunday weddings per year. “Planning a wedding on a Sunday is beneficial for a bride to be, because Sundays are not in as high demand as Saturdays. I am more likely to be availability on a Sunday rather than Saturday,” she said. As the icing on the cake of Sunday wedding advantages, brides can relish the money they may save by jetting off to
their honeymoon destinations on Monday rather than over the weekend. Many airlines offer cheaper tickets on weekdays, and there are more flights available to popular wedding destinations on Mondays, especially during the off-season. Brides pondering a Sunday wedding should take into consideration whether their florist and bakery will be able to deliver the flowers and cake on that day, or if additional planning will be required. In addition, brides should consider whether their guests will take Monday off to travel home, or if they will use some time on the night of the wedding for travel. As for the bride and groom, they will certainly savor the dollar deals garnered by hosting a Sunday wedding and a weekend to remember will be preserved in the minds of family and friends. •
THE VENDORS Venue, The Inn at Crestwood
Wedding Coordination, Events by Details Bridesmaid’s Luncheon, Bistro Roca
Rehearsal Dinner, The Manor House at Chetola Photography, Katie Langley Photography Flowers, Millefleurs
Ceremony Music, Eric Koontz & ASU School of Music Faculty Reception Music, Todd Wright Quartet Cake, Stick Boy Bread Company
Bride’s Attire, Amsale from Nitsa’s Bridesmaid’s Attire, J. Crew Groom’s Attire, Belk
Hair and Makeup, Outersanctum Salon 27 • highcountryweddingguide.com
Todd and Liz
Todd and Elizabeth (Gaither) Carter of San Francisco, CA
S e pte mber 6, 2009 Venue, Camp Yonahnoka at Eseeola Lodge Photography, Kristin Byrum Flowers, Bless Your Heart Food & Beverage, Executive Chef Patrick Maisonhaute of Eseeola Lodge Cake, Sugar Plum Fairies Music, Rubberband Wedding Coordination, Events by Elizabeth Ashley
While growing up in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, my family spent many winter and summer days in the High Country skiing, hiking, and picnicking along the Blue Ridge Parkway. When Todd and I decided to get married, it seemed like a natural way to share my home with Todd’s family and our friends from California, while having our wedding somewhere truly special to me and my family. Throughout the wedding weekend, it was fun to have family and friends experience the serenity of the area. There were tennis and golf tournaments, some bouldering, and of course, hiking up to Grandfather Mountain. As we chose the elements for our wedding day, Todd and I focused on our dear friends, the music, food, and places that we loved the most. My family always stayed in Linville when we visited and Eseeola Lodge became the obvious location. The guests signed a Southern Living cookbook as they arrived. Our ceremony incorporated close friends sharing their musical talents and two special readings by a friend that introduced us and another close friend from San Francisco. Todd’s oldest brother Greg was our officiate. He truly executed a beautiful ceremony that was very meaningful to us. After the ceremony, we joined our family and friends for an awesome show of dancing and singing. The seating arrangements were designated by restaurant names Todd and I have dined at together, or with family and friends over the years and across the country. This night could not have been more magical!
US 321
To Tennessee
Venue Locations
VALLE CR
Banner Elk Winery & Inn
19 E
US 194
BANNER ELK
Cornerstone Cabins US 194
US 184
LINVILLE
To Asheville
BL UE
RI
DG
E
PA RK
W AY
19 E
US 105
US 421/321
RUCIS
To Greensboro
Broyhill Inn & Conference Center
BOONE
US 421/221
US 105
Mast Farm Inn
US 321/221
FOSCOE The Inn at Crestwood
Appalachian Ski Mtn..
Chetola Resort Blowing Rock Conference Center
Westglow Resort & Spa
Meadowbrook Inn BLOWING ROCK
US 221
US 321
To Charlotte
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
Appalachian Ski Mtn. 940 Ski Mountain Road Blowing Rock, NC 28605 800-322-2373 www.apps kimtn.com
Un i q u e to wester n N o r th C arol i n a , o u r traditional Bavar ian-style l o d g e -a n d even a chair lift-can b e yo u rs, a long with an in timate m o u n t a i n setting and panoramic B l u e R i d g e views. We offer an excl u s ive, scenic choice for your r ece p ti o n , cer em ony o r rehears al d i n n er. Choose from four event sp a ces f or sm a ll or larg e g atheri n g s. O u r exce ptional culinar y sta f f wi l l help cr ea te an even t to r em em b er.
FAC ILITY TY P E S KI RES ORT EV EN TS AL L VE NU E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR FAC ILITY FE E $ 400 - $ 1,000 AC COMMOD ATION S YES
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
Banner Elk Winery & Inn 135 Deer Run Lane Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-260-1790 www.bannerelkwiner y.com
T h e B a nner E lk Winer y & In n o f f ers a unique a nd ro mantic s et ti n g f or nuptia ls in any s eas o n. E xch a ng e vows before a crackling f i re, or ste p outsi de to ou r g raci o u s por ch, ter r ace o r g arden fo r a cerem ony over lookin g ou r vin e ya rd s, r olling m ou n tain s, fields o f b l ueber r ies a nd private trou t pond.
FA C ILITY TY P E W I NERY & I NN EV E N TS AL L VE N U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR FA C ILITY FE E $ 1,800 AC C OMMOD ATION S YES
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
Blowing Rock Conference Center 1818 Gofor th Road Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828-295-7813 www.brccenter.org
T h e B l owing Rock C on ference C e n ter offers many options for wed d i ng venues, f r om the o u t d o o r s tone chapel, or intimate i n d o o r cha pel to several locatio ns fo r rece ptions a nd other wedding even ts tha t will f it in to any wedd i n g b udg et. Located in the hear t o f B l ow ing Rock, Blowin g Rock C o n f erence Center is an afforda b l e o ption com plete with mo u nta i n v i ews a nd our war m an d fri en d l y sta f f.
FA CILITY TY P E C ONFERENC E C TR E VE N TS AL L V EN U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR FA CILITY FE E $ 0-$ 250 A C C OMMOD ATION S YES
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
Broyhill Inn & Conference Center
FA C ILITY TY P E C ONFERENC E C TR
775 Bodenheimer Drive Boone, NC 28607 800-951-6048 www.broyhillinn.com
FA C ILITY FE E $ 0-$ 2,000
Fr o m wedding ceremonies on the b a ck l awn, to ela bo rate s it-down b a n q u e ts in one of our ballrooms, we a re the pr em ier weddin g des tin a ti o n in the Hig h Co u ntr y. With o u r tra i ned ba nquet s taff memb e r s, the ex quisite cuisine offered by o u r awa r d-winning cu lin ar y tea m , a nd our beautiful facility, we p r esent multiple options to m a ke your wedding personalized an d u n i que.
E VE N TS AL L V EN U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR
A CC OMMOD ATION S YES
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
Chetola Resort Nor th Main Street Blowing Rock, NC 28605 800-243-8652 www.chetola.com
W h eth er you are looking for an i n ti m a te winter wedding in our h i s to r i c estate home or a g ala s u m m er celebr ation by the lake, C h eto l a will take care of ever y d eta i l . O ur outsta nding cu linar y tea m , exce ptional a menities and va ri ety of lux ur ious acco mmodati o n s a re sure to satisfy you and yo u r g uests as you celebrate your wed d i n g in the bea u tifu l B lu e R i d g e M ounta ins.
FA CILITY TY P E RES ORT E VE N TS AL L V EN U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR FA CILITY FE E $ 265 - $ 6,750 A C C OMMOD ATION S YES
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
Cornerstone Cabins Highway 194 Banner Elk, NC 28604 828-898-3115 www. cor nerstonerentals.com
Ju s t off of Highway 194, two m i l es f r om Ba nner Elk , Co r ners to n e Cabins offers the perfect s etti ng f or your u pcomin g wedd i n g a nd a sm a ll v illag e environ m en t with f r iendly peop le who wi l l make you feel welcome from th e moment you ar rive. W hether yo u wish to reser ve the entire p ro p er ty f or your weddin g even ts o r a ccommodatio ns for your f a mi l y a nd f r iends, ou r s taff will wo rk ha r d to m eet you r n eeds.
FA C ILITY TY P E C ABI N EV E N TS AL L VE N U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR AC C OMMOD ATION S YES
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
The Inn at Crestwood 3236 Shulls Mill Road Boone, NC 28607 828-963-6646 www.crestwoodnc.co m
C r es twood is a tim eless fusion o f m o der n and traditional styles. Pr o u d l y featuring T he Inn, T he S p a , T he Ta ble a t C res twoo d r es ta u rant and T he Dawg Star B a r & G r ille, our uniq u e mo u nta i n r etreat is located in the hear t o f No r th Ca r olina ’s H igh Co u ntr y, b etween Boone and Blowing Ro ck , n ea r the Blue Ridg e Park way. We of f er a va riety of s tu n n i n g s etting s f or you r ideal mo u nta i n wedding.
FA C ILITY TY P E I NN & S PA E VE N TS AL L V EN U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR FA C ILITY FE E $ 350 - $ 6,250 A CC OMMOD ATION S YES
Photo by Marie Freeman
Mast Farm Inn 2543 Br oadstone Road Banner Elk, NC 28604 888-963-5857 www.mastfar minn.com
VENU E AT A GL ANCE FA CILITY TY P E RES ORT E VE N TS AL L V EN U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR FA CILITY FE E $ 500 - $ 2,400 A C C OMMOD ATION S YES
M a s t Fa r m Inn pr ov ides a h i s to ri c, r ustic settin g fo r an i n ti m a te wedding celeb ration . We ex ten d bridal par ties the same wa r m hospitality that makes T he M a s t Fa r m Inn a f avorite mo u nta i n g etaway f or cou ples, fami l y g r oups and bus iness retreats. T h e I nn’s seven guest rooms and s even private cottag es and cabins a re availa ble f or lodging for famil i es a nd wedding gu es ts.
Photos by George Gardner
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
Meadowbrook Inn 711 Main Street Blowing Rock, NC 28605 828-295 -4300 www.meadowbrook-inn.com
We f ea tur e outdoor ceremo ny and rece ption sites with mo re th a n 6 , 500 square feet of eleg ant m eeti n g and banquet space. Our sta f f p r ovides deta i l-oriented s erv i ce, cr eates stunning set-ups, and h e l p s couples relax so they can sp en d tim e with their gu es ts. We ca n a ccommodate small or larg e g r o u p s, and offer menus from p l a ted meals to buffet choices to m eet yo ur ta ste a nd bu dg et.
FA CILITY TY P E H OTEL E VE N TS AL L V EN U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR FA CILITY FE E $ 350 - $ 2,000 A C C OMMOD ATION S YES
VENU E AT A GL ANCE
Westglow Resort & Spa 224 Westglow Circle Blowing Rock, NC 28605 800-562-0807 www.westglow.com
W i th the entire proper ty and s ta f f a t your dispos al, Wes tglow Res o r t & Spa pr ov ides an eleg an t s etti n g while cr ea tin g an u n fo rg etta ble ex per ience. Ou r exclu s ive p ackag es include rehearsal d i n n ers, wedding and rece ption s i tes, lodg ing a nd s pa treatme n ts. We ta ke ca r e of the details s o yo u ca n enjoy ever y moment of your s p eci al day.
FAC ILITY TY P E RES ORT EV E N TS AL L VE N U E S OUTDOOR/I NDOOR FAC ILITY FE E $ 200 - $ 1,950 AC C OMMOD ATION S YES
Venue Guide Comparison
event type
banquet rooms
indoor venue capacity
outdoor venue
facility rental fee
Appalachian Ski Mtn. Boone, NC 800-322-2373 www.appskimtn.com
all
4
up to 350
yes
$400 to $1,000
Banner Elk Winery & Inn Banner Elk, NC 828-260-1790 www.bannerelkwinery.com
all
1
up to 150
yes
$1,800
Blowing Rock Conference Center Blowing Rock 828-295-7813 www.brccenter.org
all
3
up to 200
yes
$0 to $250
Broyhill Inn & Conference Center Boone, NC 828-951-6048 www.broyhillinn.com
all
20
up to 1000
yes
$0 to $2,000
Chetola Resort Blowing Rock, NC 800-243-8652 www.chetola.com
all
6
up to 200
yes, Lakeside Gazebo
$265 to $6,750
Cornerstone Cabins Banner Elk, NC 828-898-3115 www.cornerstonerentals.com
all
n/a
yes
yes
n/a
Meadowbrook Inn Blowing Rock, NC 800-456-5456 www.meadowbrook-inn.com
all
6
up to 300
yes, up to 125
$350 to $2,000
Mast Farm Inn Valle Crucis, NC 828-963-5857 www.mastfarminn.com
all
2 dining rooms
up to 50
yes, up to 150
$500 to $2,400
The Inn at Crestwood Blowing Rock, NC 828-963-6646 www.crestwoodnc.com
all
9
up to 150
yes
$350 to $6,250
Westglow Resort & Spa Blowing Rock, NC 800-562-0807 www.westglow.com
all
2
up to 150
yes
$200 to $1,950
seasonal rates
avg. price per person
outside catering
guest rooms
spa services
transportation available
valet parking
no
$25
no, cake only
4 slope-side chalets
no
no
upon request
yes
n/a
yes
8 guest rooms
no
no
no
yes
n/a
yes
51 guest rooms
no
no
no
yes, for lodging only
$25 to $30
no, cake only
83 guest rooms 7 suites
no
yes
yes
yes, for lodging only
$25 to $50
no, cake only
42 lodge rooms 8 B&B rooms 150+ condos
coming in 2009
no
varies upon request
yes
n/a
yes
3 cabins 1 cottage 1 lodge 1 suite
no
no
no
yes, lower rates Nov. through mid-May
n/a
no, cake only
61 guest rooms and suites
no
varies upon request
varies upon request
yes
$15 to $150
yes
7 guest rooms 7 cottages 42 guests
no
yes
no
yes
$40 to $150
no, cake only
29 guest rooms 5 suites 3 cottages
yes
no
varies upon request
no
$55 to $95
no, cake only
9 guest rooms
yes
no
yes
Jeff and Ally
Jeff and Ally (Cashion) Campanozzi of Ft. Worth, TX
May 16, 2009 Venue, Westglow Resort & Spa Photography, Jonathan Burton Photography Food and Beverage, Westglow Resort & Spa Flowers, Fushsia Moss, Westglow Resort & Spa Cake, Hallmark Cakes Music, Cabin Cove Music Transportation, Air Haven Limousine Wedding Coordination, Jennifer Williams, Westglow Resort & Spa
I chose to get married in the High Country because it is where my family and I spent most of our summers away from home in Ft. Worth, Texas. I have so many fond memories of my life in this area, and it has always been special to me. When I showed my husband the majestic beauty of the North Carolina mountains and we visited Westglow, we both agreed that having our wedding there would be perfect. Jeff and I had the most beautiful, enchanting wedding we could have ever asked for. It was absolutely perfect even though it rained and we had to have the ceremony in a tent rather than at the front of Westglow. The rain actually added a great ambience to the ceremony. Everything about the reception was also wonderful. From the dancing, to the catering and the champagne toast by our fathers, it was all like something from a story book. Our photographer, Jonathan Burton and his assistant Anna, did a fantastic job on everything, from the pre-wedding photographs, to the moment my father walked me down the isle-all precious memories. The rain didn’t change a thing. Our wedding experience was more than we planned for and this day was the best day of our lives!
Pace and Sarah Pace and Sarah (Minis) Cooper of Boone, NC
Ju ne 20, 2009 Venue, Private Property, Valle Crucis Photography, Sunshine Foss Catering and Cake, Reid’s Cafe Music, Forget- Me-Nots and Professors of Soul Flowers, Bless Your Heart Wedding Coordination, Events by Details
Pace and I are both river and mountain lovers, so we wanted to get married on the banks of the Watauga River where Pace proposed. We wanted all of our friends and family in attendance to experience not just our marriage, but the reason we live here in the High Country. We had two hours of thunder, lighting, and rain before the skies parted, just three minutes before our ceremony began. The sun came out, making the rain look like honey dripping from the surrounding trees as we got married under an arbor on the riverbank. A large tent in a nearby field was decorated with paper lanterns, violet silk pin-tuck tablecloths, and gorgeous flowers. We served heavy hors d’ouevres and a five-tiered cake. Each tier was wrapped in lady fingers and ribbon, and decorated with fresh flowers. It was a relaxed, mingling-style reception with great ‘boogiedown’ music. People spent time under the tent, walking in the field, and gazing over the banks of the river. At this point, the entire bridal party even got in the river for some great pictures!
Ha
Story by Rachael Mills | Photos by Matt Powell
and Hand in
How the creation of High Country Wedding Guide unexpectedly inspired my own wedding In the South, football trumps everything, even the most important day in one’s life. My cousin’s wedding several years ago was on the same day that rival teams Tennessee and Florida played. I noticed a few guests with headphones hidden in their suits so they wouldn’t miss a play. They quickly slipped away to the nearest television almost beating the newlyweds out the door. Last fall, I attended another wedding in Alabama with my fiancé on the same day as the Alabama-Arkansas game. No one danced. No one ate. And few watched the cake cutting or witnessed the toast. The reception ballroom looked dismal and only a handful of people were around to partake in the festivities that took the bride months to plan. All of the guests were in the adjacent bar, drinking beer and cheering on their beloved Crimson Tide as the team fought for a win in overtime. At that point, I made a mental note to avoid a game-day wedding at all cost. This all-consuming, past time has affected the wedding date selection of many southern brides, including my own.
Because I’m from Tennessee and my husband is from Alabama, we were faced with the dilemma of selecting a wedding date that wouldn’t conflict with either teams football schedule in order to appease our families and close friends. We chose August 23rd as the day for our Knoxville wedding by the Tennessee River, the last Saturday before football season. Everything was in motion for the perfect day when in early July, we had to postpone our wedding by a few months due to circumstances beyond our control. I’ve always dreamed of a fall wedding, but at this point, there was no way I could get the same venues during an off-football weekend in Knoxville. These dates fill up a year in advance. At the same time, I was working to produce the first issue of High Country Wedding Guide. Throughout the publishing process, I discovered phenomenal venues and met with many incredible vendors. That’s when I realized it was time to turn my thoughts to my new home as the perfect place for my dream wedding. High Country Wedding Guide, a much needed resource for brides planning a mountain
wedding, had already given me the research I needed to quickly switch gears in order to execute our wedding. Plus, I would likely be able to find availability on a weekend that wouldn’t conflict with football! The benefits for a High Country wedding became obvious. I had already developed many relationships with great vendors, so it would be easier to plan from my back yard rather than traveling to Knoxville on weekends. By having a wedding away from home, we were able to limit the number of guests, saving on cost per person. Right away, I knew my church in Banner Elk would be the most beautiful place for our ceremony venue. Banner Elk Christian Fellowship had just finished renovation, expanding its beautiful stone and wood structure and I knew little décor would be needed. The church was set, but I knew that selecting the reception venue would be the most important decision. Someone in my church suggested Grandfather Country 54 • highcountryweddingguide.com
Club, just a few miles from my church. Although I wasn’t a member, a sweet couple in my church who were members happily offered to sponsor my wedding. When I arrived on the property, it was love at first sight. With a beautiful lake to my left and Grandfather Mountain peering down from above, just driving to the clubhouse was
exhilarating. Next, it was time to start booking our vendors. My fiancé had only one request-to have a band that played soul and funk. I was referred to East Coast Entertainment, who recommended The Gastons. It was amazing to see how their broad-based repertoire of music brought young and old
Florist, Sheri Furman, owner of Bless Your Heart, was one of the first vendors I met when I began working on the magazine. I felt an immediate connection with her. When my wedding plans shifted, I knew I could trust her completely with our floral design. I told her a few color guidelines and gave her full creative rein on the floral concepts. Sheri poured her heart into every detail, from outdoor decor to unique centerpieces for every table, her creativity was limitless. Special moments were captured by the co-creator of the magazine, photographer Matt Powell. I love Matt’s style and we were thrilled with how he told our story with his lens. The weather was incredible, allowing us to take advantage of the natural light and scenery by the lake.
55 • highcountryweddingguide.com
We incorporated many personal touches into our wedding. For a guest book, I chose a log bench that had been built at Roger’s Outpost in Blowing Rock. We placed a marker on top and set the bench in the foyer of the church for our guests to sign. It is now a special reminder that sits in the hallway of our mountain home.
parents. On my right hand, I wore my paternal grandmother’s engagement ring. To honor my adopted grandmother, I gave apple butter homemade by her as a favor and then asked guests to take a specially wrapped shoe box and fill it for Operation Christmas Child, her favorite organization.
I wanted to honor my grandmothers in a special way. I wore a 75-year-old cameo that had been passed down and held pictures of my late maternal grand-
The club pastry chef created the most delicious cake I have ever tasted. I asked him to surprise me with a unique creation, and he delivered, knocking our socks off with a layered spice cake filled with Godiva cream and covered with an espresso infused butternut frosting. The menu was the most fun to create. We worked with an excellent, wildly creative culinary team at Grandfather Country Club to develop a menu that told our story. Our guests loved it! We designed food stations that reflected various stages in our relationship.
56 • highcountryweddingguide.com
The Vendors Ceremony, Banner Elk Christian Fellowship Reception, Grandfather Country Club Photography, Matt Powell Photography Flowers, Bless Your Heart Ceremony Music, Allegro Music Events Reception Music, The Gastons, East Coast Entertainment Ceremony Coordination, The Whole Shebang Wedding Day Transportation, Bel Air Chauffeur Bridal Attire, White Lace & Promises Groom’s Attire, Did Someone Say Party Bridal Party Jewelry, Lilly’s Bead Box Rehearsal Dinner, The Inn at Crestwood Rehearsal Transportation, Air Haven Limousine Groomsmen Fun, Scream Time Zipline Family Accommodation, Echota on the Ridge Guest Accommodation, Best Western Mountain Lodge Save the Date Postcards, Best Western Mountain Lodge Invitations & Programs, Printed by Precision Printing Bridesmaid Luncheon Invitations, Pleasant Papers Hair, Haircut 101 Bridal Massage, The Sanctuary
The first station reflected food from my years spent growing up in Tennessee and paid a tribute to my football-crazed family. Our guests enjoyed mini Kobe beef burgers with “Big Orange” sweet potato fries. Additional stations featured a taste of Alabama, the place where we spent most of our courtship, enjoying pecan crusted fried chicken; the Asian-inspired flavors of Vancouver, Canada, the location of our engagement; and our favorite foods from North Carolina--the place we would begin our new marriage. The Grandfather Country Club staff handled the evening effortlessly and truly exceeded all of our expectations for an unforgettable reception. Looking back, I can’t imagine having a more perfect day. I actually wish I could have incorporated more vendors because there were so many great ones to choose from. My High Country wedding was such an extraordinary experience that I wanted to share it with all my readers. I highly recommend entrusting the biggest day of your life to the professional vendors of the High Country. They can even trump a football game! •
58 • highcountryweddingguide.com
Michael and Kelsey Michael and Kelsey (Graf) Echerd of Hickory, NC
May 16, 2009
Venue, Hound Ears Club Photography, Rebecca D’Angelo Flowers, Bless Your Heart Food and Beverage, Hound Ears Club Wedding Coordination, Events by Details
Apart from rain and a lightning siren during our outdoor wedding ceremony, everything was perfect. I just love unpredictable High Country weather! We used excellent, and mostly local vendors. Our main goal was to use vendors who could think outside the box and go beyond a cookie-cutter wedding. We also wanted vendors who could communicate well via e-mail. Our wedding colors were light pink with sage green and dark brown accents. We incorporated lots of birds in our wedding theme, since it was spring in the mountains. Our flowers consisted mainly of peonies. Bless Your Heart incorporated sticks and bird nests into the arrangements to fit with the rest of the dĂŠcor. Reception accents included framed pictures of parents, grandparents, and other family weddings. Hound Ears was a great location. We had various food stations around the main level of the clubhouse and later moved the party downstairs for cake and dancing. It was our dream wedding.
Larry and Angela Larry and Angela (Nichols) Wolfe of Wilmington, NC
S e pte mber 19, 2009
Venue, The Mast Farm Inn Photography, Dan Bailey Photo Studios Food & Beverage, The Mast Farm Inn Flowers, Pearl Gardens Cake, Butter Cup Bakery Music, DJ Express
Larry asked me to marry him on a visit to Boone. We’ve been coming to the area for the past four years, and wanted our family and friends to experience the same affection we feel for the High Country. I cannot say enough about the family and staff of The Mast Farm Inn. From the moment we ate dinner there four years ago to the night Larry proposed, they have always treated us like family. Our wedding was a weekend event with our family and friends, and Danielle and Sandra made everyone feel at home. Planning a destination wedding was a challenge for me, however, Danielle of The Mast Farm Inn made it very easy from the homemade cookies in every guest’s room to the hugs we got from the staff, our wedding was absolutely breathtaking. It was perfect in every sense of the word, and I honestly could not ask for anything more.
Look No Further Than The
High Country For Your
Wedding Day A by Stacey Wilson photos by David Morrison
Something about the High Country is…enchanting. That’s one reason so many couples choose to set their weddings in the hazy blue hills of western North Carolina. Many brides, however, tend to look elsewhere when it comes to finding the perfect – and affordable – wedding gown. But stepping off the mountain may not be necessary, and brides may even miss out on part of a fairy tale experience they can find. Nestled in the heart of downtown Boone, Did Someone Say Party has gowns just as charming as the mountains that surrounded them. And not only are the store’s dresses beautiful, the staff is one that Cinderella’s fairy godmother might even applaud. Donna Cook, the store’s owner, has been adorning brides for nearly 20 years. Although Did Someone Say
Party boasts a large collection of prom and formal gowns, Donna realized in the store’s early years that assisting brides was her favorite task. “I loved working with a bride – preparing for her important day - helping, planning and making her dream come true,” she says. And for nearly two decades, this is exactly what Donna and her staff have done for many blushing brides searching for the dress of their dreams. Before visiting Did Someone Say Party, Ashe County resident Holly McIntyre thought finding her ideal wedding dress would be hopeless. A plus-size girl, Holly couldn’t shake the bad memories of shopping for both prom and bridesmaid dresses, and she was dreading the search for a wedding gown.
Attire
Veil & Anjolique Gown from Did Someone Say Party. Jewelry by Belk. Flowers by Log Cabin Florist.
Veil & Mia Solano Gown from Did Someone Say Party. Boots from Watsonatta. Full length on adjacent page.
sure I was beautiful on my special day.” It was this specialized attention from Donna and the staff at Did Someone Say Party that made all the difference for Holly. After the style of dress was decided, Donna even special-ordered a “practice” dress for Holly to try on so she knew she was making the right decision. A few months later, Holly was standing in her fairy tale wedding gown – just the right one for her. Donna said the staff at Did Someone Say Party prides itself on choosing gowns for a bride that will accentuate her particular body style, even if they are not always designs she imagined she would wear. “Like most little girls, I had always envisioned my wedding day to be magical,” she said. “Feeling like a princess in a beautiful gown was my vision. I knew being a larger girl would make it difficult to fulfill this vision I had in my head.” Knowing she had to start looking for a dress, Holly paid a visit to Donna’s store. Overwhelming anxiety soon set in. “After wandering around, looking at all of the beautiful gowns ranging in various sizes, I again was filled with feelings of hopelessness,” said Holly.
“It usually surprises the bride when she is stunning in a style that she would have never chosen on her own,” she said. “We give all of our brides the same specialized service – something that is not found in most bridal boutiques. We do not require appointments to come in and try on gowns, and we encourage the bride to take as many pictures as she likes.”
Donna was Holly’s modern-day fairy godmother. She listened as Holly explained her fear of shopping for a dress, wiped away Holly’s tears, then offered encouragement and a guarantee that she would, in fact, find the perfect gown. “I get teary-eyed thinking of how she took my horrible, scared feelings and turned them into something hopeful,” Holly said. “She made me feel that everything was going to be okay and that she would make
Holly McIntyre Roten at her Biltmore Estate wedding on Oct. 18.
69 • highcountryweddingguide.com
Tuxedo, Joli Bridal Gown, and accessories by Did Someone Say Party modeled by Kyle and Brittany Sargent.
With an inventory of hundreds of gowns, Did Someone Say Party has dresses to accommodate all budgets – from $75 selections in the third-floor sale section to custom-order gowns. Some of the most popular designers the store features include Maggie Sottero, Anjolique Bridal, Raylia Designs, Mia Solano and Joli Bridals. Did Someone Say Party will alter dresses purchased in the store within 24 hours of the event. This service is also offered for tuxedo rentals and can save the entire wedding party from going off the mountain, saving time and gas money. Priscilla Erwin, an event planner and owner of Orangerie Events, bought her wedding dress (gown featured on page 69) from Donna and used the store’s alteration service. For Priscilla, the expe-
rience was more than just a purchase for a special event. “Did Someone Say Party was a breath of fresh, mountain air,” she said. “Donna and her staff went above and beyond my expectations and were such a joy to work with. They not only helped me find and alter my perfect dress, but they also fitted my mother and entire wedding party. You can tell that Donna not only cares about the dresses, but the people wearing those gowns.” Part of the High Country’s enchantment comes from the people who work, play and live within its high hills. The staff at Did Someone Say Party offers this charm to brides as they start preparing for their magical day. Dress shopping at a full-service bridal salon with bluegrass music in the background – now that’s a mountain fairy tale beginning. •
Bob and Candace Bob and Candace (Hughes) Thomas of Raleigh, NC
May 30, 2009 Venue, Leatherwood Mountain Photography, Pixels on Paper Caterer, Gadabouts Cake, Stick Boy Bread Company Ceremony Music, Robert Hatley, Toni Whitley & Mike Wisniewski Reception Music, DJ Troy Wilson
Bob proposed to me on the summer solstice, June 21, 2008. We awakened in the Outer Banks to watch the sunrise, then drove west where he proposed at sunset at an overlook near Blowing Rock. It seemed only appropriate to return for a High Country wedding.
John Denver song while my sister and Bob’s brother, along with two adorable flower girls, stood at our sides. After taking pictures at all the picturesque Leatherwood locations, we walked a few feet to a beautiful, lighted tent for a wonderful reception.
We chose Leatherwood Mountain for many reasons. It is gorgeous, private, and we had lots of room for all of our crazy friends to enjoy themselves. Our wedding day was beautiful and we were married in front of 170 guests with the mountains as our backdrop.
We had a great DJ and yummy food. With cowboy hats on, Bob and I had our first dance to Waylon Jennings, “Good Hearted Woman.” Soon after, one dozen former Eastern Carolina University rugby players serenaded me in their purple blazers and knee socks. Everything was so perfect, I didn’t want our evening to end.
Our ceremony was perfect. My friend sang a
Dispelling Myths to an
Online Generation
Your wedding plans are in the works and now it’s time to book the honeymoon. Do you go online in hopes of saving a few dollars, or hand the task over to a skilled travel consultant?
SAVE MONEY WITH TRAVEL CONSULTANTS: • Strong relationships with suppliers and advanced booking technology allow consultants to get you the most value. • Consultants have rates not available to the general public, as well as bulk rates. • Honeymooners pay no extra money by using a travel consultant. Suppliers build costs into every vacation, including online. • Honeymoons booked with travel consultants get maximum facilities on reasonable rates. • Travel consultants often find better pricing and provide more personal service than any website. Suppliers are actively courting them and offering value priced promotions. • Market analysis by suppliers confirms that guests booking online are often dissatisfied with choice; therefore, suppliers invest in travel consultant training and site visits. Guests are happy with guidance agents provide and become repeat customers at the venue. TRAVEL CONSULTANTS ARE YOUR ADVOCATE: • They handle medical emergencies, missed flights, lost baggage during your honeymoon. • They provide passport, visa, immunization and location specific details • Insider information: What if your honeymoon turned out to be a family or mature traveler resort? What if you dreamed of a white sand beach, only to end up on a volcanic island? What if your online room booking misled you to think it was oceanfront, but was an obstructed view? • You don’t want to be a victim to a scammer. • Their recommendations are in the best interest of the client, not the supplier. RECEIVE FULL SERVICE FROM TRAVEL CONSULTANTS: • They personalize itineraries to meet every romantic whim. • They alleviate stress and reduce your checklist. • Agents receive education, training and resources to provide one-stop honeymoon planning that provides convenience, comfort, price and reliability beyond your expectations. • Travel consultants have knowledge about topics: where to eat, shop and what to pack. 75 • highcountryweddingguide.com
Brian and Allison Brian and Allison (O’Steen) Parker of Atlanta, GA
Ju l y 11, 2009
Ceremony, Banner Elk Christian Fellowship Reception, Camp Yonahnoka at Eseeola Lodge Photography, Necessary Photography Flowers, Bless Your Heart Cake, Hallmark Cakes Reception Music, Todd Wright Quartet Hair/Makeup, Westglow Resort & Spa
Brian and I met in 2001 on a mission trip in Jamaica. We quickly became friends and kept in touch after returning home, even though he lived in Texas and I lived in North Carolina. Our friendship eventually grew into something more, and after three years of being apart, Brian transferred to Appalachian State University where I was in school. Since it was the only place that was familiar to both of us, we decided to get married in the High Country at a sweet little mountain-top church, Banner Elk Christian Fellowship. Our first decision was choosing our florist. I had always loved Bless Your Heart, and was thrilled to discover that it was not only a gift shop, but a florist as well. I shared my vision of having a timeless and elegant wedding with Sheri, and I left her shop feeling as if I had known her for years, confident that she shared my vision. When choosing a photographer, I wanted someone who would capture the day in a cre-
ative fashion. We stumbled upon the blog of Rebecca Necessary, and were instantly drawn to her photos. She photographs in a documentary style, capturing authentic emotions and precious moments from an artistic perspective. Immediately following the ceremony, our guests enjoyed live jazz music, an incredible dinner prepared by Eseeola chefs, delicious strawberry cake, and a gorgeous view of Grandfather Mountain. Personal touches included decorating with wedding photos of our parents and grandparents, family silver pieces incorporated throughout, and the use of my grandparents’ wedding cake topper. As a wedding present surprise, a quilt with patches sewn by wedding guests and assembled by Brian’s aunt, was displayed at the reception We were amazed at how beautiful everything was! Thanks to the help of our vendors the wedding was even more than we imagined it could be.
six
Hot Spots R EH E A RS A L DI N N E R
by Heather Hutcheson
The evening before your wedding day has arrived. The time when you, your closest friends and family, and your fiancé come together and break bread in a pre-celebration. A time to reminisce, when tales will be shared. There are numerous options for having the best location and culinary delight to help make the eve of your upcoming event just as perfect as your wedding.
one
High Country Wedding Guide is frequently asked for rehearsal dinner recommendations. We have profiled a few of the most well-known venues in the area to fit all budgets and menu preferences. The owners and staff of these establishments have long histories in creating the perfect dining experience for rehearsal dinners, and all will work closely to see your event is exactly to your liking.
THE GAMEKEEPER
www.gamekeeper-nc.com Famous for seasonal comfort cuisine ranging from exotic meat-lover’s fare to creative vegetarian elegance and simplicity, The Gamekeeper is a tucked-away jewel, formerly the home of the Yonahlossee camp director. Navigating the winding and sharply-curving road to experience some of the best food in the High Country is worth the adventure. Rehearsal dinners are a regular occurrence at this rustic spot, and with a skillful, experienced staff, your special event will be a memorable one for you and your guests. Plated dinners are their specialty, and a customized menu for your group can be coordinated by owners Ken and Wendy. 79 • highcountryweddingguide.com
two
ROWLAND’S RESTAURANT
www.westglow.com
Located in a historic, Grecian-styled mansion just minutes from Blowing Rock, Rowland’s Restaurant at the Westglow Resort & Spa is customary to creating specialized menus for wedding events, including rehearsal dinners. Owners Bonnie and Jamie Shaefer intended for Rowland’s, named after Bonnie’s father who had a passion for fine food, to be one of the finest dining spots in the High Country. Indeed their menu creations will be sure to please beyond expectations. The staff will be delighted to assist you in creating a customized menu from Southern-comfort indulgences, to an organic menu for the health conscious. Depending on the time of year, your can choose for your dinner to be served in one of many elegantly appointed dining rooms or on the West Portico that hosts spectacular views of Grandfather Mountain.
three
CASA RUSTICA
www.casarustica1981.com
Located on N.C. Highway 105 in the heart of Boone, this Italian-style family restaurant has been serving the High Country since 1981. Second generation owner Richard Pedroni is no stranger to rehearsal dinners, and he takes a special interest in working with you to plan a customized plated dinner for your guests. The menu is pure Italian and Casa Rustica has a long history of presenting delicious food. Offpremises catering is available should your event take place at an outdoor mountain venue.
four
THE BEST CELLAR
www.bestcellar.com
Located at The Inn at Ragged Gardens in Blowing Rock, this fine High Country restaurant has been a local favorite for decades. The Best Cellar was founded over a bookstore in a rustic cabin overlooking the bypass. Since relocating to this historic inn, The Best Cellar has maintained the quality and reputation that has brought its loyal customers back year after year. The restaurant features continental cuisine, a wine cellar, freshly made breads and desserts that have been customer favorites for over 30 years. Private dining rooms are available for smaller groups and most overlook the well-manicured gardens. Let owners Rob and Lisa be your guides in creating a dinner menu that will please everyone.
80 • highcountryweddingguide.com
five
BROYHILL INN
www.broyhillinn.com Appalachian State University campus is home to the Broyhill Inn & Conference Center. From the main dining room’s exceptional tree-top view of a panoramic mountain vista, to the outdoor banquet facilities, the Broyhill Inn can accommodate from 20 to 300 guests. The banquet facilities offer numerous menu selections and are customized to your group’s preference for buffet or plated-style dining.
six
JACKALOPE’S VIEW
www.archerswayinn.com
Traveling up the winding mountain road to Beech Mountain, you may notice a sharp turn to the left where you will enter the world of Archer’s Inn and Jackalope’s View. This inn has been serving returning guests for decades, and one of its greatest features is the view from the restaurant’s dining room. Breath-taking vistas will add to the enticement of elegantly prepared entrees such as fresh mountain trout, wild game, or Angus beef. Jackalope’s has been a favored rehearsal dinner spot for years by local residents, and the expert staff is well-versed in attending to the details of your special event.
more
Rehearsal Dinner Options ARTISANAL Banner Elk, NC www.artisanalnc.com BISTRO ROCA Blowing Rock, NC www.bistroroca.com ESEEOLA LODGE Linville, NC www.eseeola.com GLIDEWELL’S Blowing Rock, NC www.glidewellsrestaurant.org PSSGHETTI’S Blowing Rock, NC www.pssghettis.com THE INN AT CRESTWOOD Boone, NC www.crestwoodnc.com THE MANOR HOUSE AT CHETOLA Blowing Rock, NC www.chetola.com STORIE STREET GRILLE Blowing Rock, NC www.storiestreetgrille.com VIDALIA Boone, NC www.vidaliaofboonenc.com VENUE ONLY APPLE BARN Valle Crucis, NC www.highsouth.com/vallecrucis BROYHILL PARK Blowing Rock, NC www.townofblowingrock.com
Kyle and Leah
Kyle and Leah (Lyman) Grove of Boone, NC
S e pte mber 19, 2009
Ceremony, Rumple Presbyterian Church of Blowing Rock Reception, Blowing Rock Country Club Photography, Karen Lehmann Catering and Cake, Blowing Rock Country Club Flowers, Tim Comer of Environments Reception Music, Envision Wedding Coordination, Heather Hutcheson, The Wedding Specialist
We met through mutual friends in September 2006 and felt an instant connection. Our decision to have a rustic and romantic mountain wedding was made without any hesitation. The rehearsal dinner, complete with outdoor fireplace, live jazz music and a showing of a video titled “Gettin’ Married” that Kyle produced for the occasion, was held in the Lake House at the Blowing Rock Country Club. We were married at the historic Rumple Memorial Presbyterian Church in Blowing Rock. Wearing my Monique Lhuillier gown, I was escorted down the aisle by my nervous, but excited, father. We were picked up in a classic 1948 F1 Ford pick-up that belongs to Kyle’s mom. Our fabulous photographer, Karen Lehmann, was thrilled to learn we had such a fun ‘prop’ to use in our photos! Everyone at Blowing Rock Country Club, especially Club Manager Lee Ann Myers, was professional, creative and kind. The buffet stations were a hit, as was the three-tier butter cream frosted cake, decorated with accents that echoed the bride’s dress. The dance floor was packed as soon as Envision, a five piece Motown & oldies band, took the stage.
No detail was left unnoticed, from the garter and ring bearer pillow made by my mother from pieces of her wedding dress, to the fudge favors from Kilwin’s. There were details we never would have remembered if we didn’t have Heather Hutcheson as our week-of, life-saver, go-to, remember-everything planner! We were truly blessed to have so many family and friends travel to be with us. Blowing Rock was the ideal setting for our unforgettable wedding weekend.
Nicholas and Robin Nicholas and Robin (Rector) Schroot of New Bern, NC
Ju ne 20, 2009 Venue, River Run Farms Photography, Pixels on Paper Catering and Flowers, Grouse Moor Catering Cake, Stick Boy Bread Company
Nick and I went to school at Appalachian State University in Boone. We fell in love with the mountains, and I wanted a place for our wedding that would showcase their beauty. I picked River Run Farms, which was down the road from where we used to live and teach. It rained in the morning; however, I had prepared myself for the weather especially since I insisted our wedding be outdoors at a horse farm! In the middle of the ceremony, the sun started shining and it turned into the most beautiful night. Our vendors were absolutely amazing. Buddy Fore, our caterer, took care of everything. He really listened to what Nick and I wanted and, worked hard to make sure we got it. Ryan and
Misty Case of Pixels on Paper were so much more than our photographers. Not only did they take amazing pictures, they helped with everything from pinning flowers, to fixing bustles. The horses, the people, and the stunning scenery of the mountains added to a night that was absolutely magical!
Vendor Directory ACCOMMODATIONS/ VENUES Appalachian Ski Mtn. (34) P.O. Box 106 Blowing Rock, NC www.appskimtn.com 828-295-7828 Best Western Mtn. Lodge (78) 1615 Tynecastle Hwy. Banner Elk, NC www.bestwesternbannerelk.com 828-898-4571 or 877-877-4553 Banner Elk Winery & Inn (30, 35) 135 Deer Run Ln. Banner Elk, NC www.bannerelkwinery.com 828-260-1790 Blowing Rock Conference Center (36) 1818 Goforth Rd. Blowing Rock, NC www.brccenter.org 828-295-7813 Broyhill Inn & Conference Center (37) 775 Bodenheimer Dr. Boone, NC www.broyhillinn.com 828-262-2204 Chetola Resort (38) North Main St. Blowing Rock, NC www.chetola.com 828-295-5520 Cornerstone Cabins (39) Hwy. 194 Banner Elk, NC www.cornerstonerentals.com 387-690-8400 Crippen’s (78) 239 Sunset Dr. Blowing Rock, NC www.crippens.com 828-295-3487
Foscoe Rentals (89) 133 Echota Pkwy. Boone, NC www.foscoerentals.com 800-723-7341 Longhope Retreat 665 William T. Calloway Rd. Todd, NC www.longhoperetreat.com 336-982-9072 Mast Farm Inn (41) 2543 Broadstone Rd. Valle Crucis, NC www.mastfarminn.com 828-963-5857 Meadowbrook Inn (2, 42) 711 Main St. Blowing Rock, NC www.meadowbrook-inn.com 828-295-4300/800-GoRomance The Gamekeeper (78) 3005 Shull’s Mill Rd. Boone, NC www.gamekeeper-nc.com 828-963-7400 The Inn at Crestwood (40) 3236 Shulls Mill Rd. Boone, NC www.crestwoodnc.com 828-963-6646/877-836-5046 The Inn at Little Pond Farm 208 Valle Cay Dr. Valle Crucis, NC www.ncinn.com 828-297-1011 Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery 450 Groce Rd. Ronda, NC www.raffaldini.com 336-835-9463 Westglow Resort & Spa (C, 43) 224 Westglow Circle Blowing Rock, NC 828-295-4463/800-562-0807 www.westglow.com
ATTIRE Did Someone Say Party? (71) 685 West King St. Boone, NC www.didsomeonesayparty.com 828-264-7307 South’s Specialty Clothiers Boone Mall 1180 Blowing Rock Rd. Boone, NC www.southsclothiers.com 828-264-8977 BRIDAL CONSULTANTS/ ASSOCIATIONS Association of Consultants & Event Services (8, 9) www.a-c-e-s.us 828-295-5148 Events by Details (63) www.eventsbydetails.net 828-773-3012 or 828-406-1392 Events by Elizabeth Ashley www.EventsbyElizabethAshley.com 828-773-8431 Pat Moser and Associates (62) www.eventsbypatmoser.com 828-414-9088 The Wedding Specialist (4) www.theweddingspecialistnc.com 828-262-0402 Weddings & Events by Carolyn Crippen (49) www.carolyncrippen.com 828-719-5142 Wilkes Bridal Association (74) www.wilkesbridal.org laura@fromtheheartevents.com CAKES Hallmark Cakes www.hallmarkcakes.com 828-295-3738
Vendor Directory Stick Boy Bread Co. (48) 345 Hardin St. Boone, NC www.stickboybread.com 828-268-9900 CATERING Crippen’s Catering (78) 239 Sunset Dr. Blowing Rock, NC www.crippens.com 828-295-3487 Reid’s Café & Catering (8) 142 S. Water St. Boone, NC www.reidscateringco.com 828-268-9600 CUSTOM JEWELRY Gems by Gemini (74) The Martin House on Main St. Blowing Rock, NC www.gemsbygemini.com 828-295-7700
Allegro Music Events (4) www.allegromusicevents.com 828-254-5456 Digital DJs Wedding DJs, MC & Lighting www.DigitalDJs.info 828-406-9015 Tater Hill Music (62) www.taterhillmusic.com 828-406-0897 Todd Wright Quartet (48) www.todd-wright.com 828-264-6860 PHOTOGRAPHY Jonathan Burton Photography www.SetToPop.com 828-266-9889 Katie Langley Photography www.katielangley.com 828-773-4063
FITNESS All Out Fitness Camp (88) www.alloutfitnesscamp.com 828-773-6482
Lynne Townsend Photography www.lynnetownsendphotography. com 336-877-3013
FLOWERS/DECOR Bless Your Heart (30) 5613 Hwy. 321 Blowing Rock, NC www.blessyourheartstore.com 828-295-4575
Pixels on Paper (1) www.pixelsonpaper.biz 704-641-1131
Millefleurs www.ncmountainflowers.com 828-963-4992 HONEYMOON/TRAVEL Gateway to Vacations (74) www.GatewayToVacations.com 828-719-6955 MUSIC/DJ A Party On The Move Mobile DJ & Karaoke (8) www.highcountrydj.com 336-620-1603
RENTALS Boone Rent-All & Parties Too (88) 1818 Hwy. 105/421 Bypass Boone, NC www.boonerent-all.com 828-264-5000 SALON Outersanctum (4) 215 Boone Heights Dr., Ste. 300 Boone, NC www.outersanctumsalon.com 828-264-8181 STATIONERY Pleasant Papers (48) 105 Village Shops S. Main St. Blowing Rock, NC 828-295-7236 Precision Printing (62) 1302 Blowing Rock Rd. Boone, NC www.precisionprintinggroup.com 828-265-0004 TRANSPORTATION Air Haven Limousine www.airhavenlimo.com 828-265-2504 Bel Air Chauffeur (63) 828-265-5005
Matt Powell Photography (5) www.mattpowellphotography.com 828-773-1311 Visio Photography www.visiophotography.com 828-659-7861 REGISTRY Belk - Boone Mall (90) 1180 Blowing Rock Rd. Boone, NC www.belk.com 828-264-3886
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think inside the box Create a wedding registry or shop for the happy couple in store or at belk.com