MORE THAN NUPTIALS

The Chateau at Shiloh by Crazy K Ranch offers both an elegant wedding venue option and much more.

BY KIMBERLY SHELTON

From rustic barn weddings to fun family gatherings, Crazy K Ranch is all about celebrations.

Home to numerous heads of black angus cattle (and even a few ducks), the sprawling 500-acre ranch has been the setting of countless memories since the fall of 2012.

“While we are known for our fabulous indoor and outdoor weddings, we want to showcase our many other offerings,” said Anthony Knight, event coordinator.

“I always tell people that we really are a destination rather than just a venue for nuptials and parties because you can do everything here.”

With numerous events and activities such as their Annual Cattle Sale, Boots and Buckle Dinner (by McNairy County Developmental Services), bridal show and corn maze, it is no wonder that thousands of visitors flock to Crazy K each year.

“Whether you are looking to plan your happily ever after, want to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a tranquil escape, we’ve got you covered,” said Becky Adkins who also serves as an event coordinator for the ranch.

“In addition to company picnics, reunions, anniversaries, birthdays and other gettogethers, we host approximately 100 weddings each year. I think one of the main draws for engaged couples is that you can have everything from the bridal shower and rehearsal to the ceremony and reception, all in one convenient location.”

“Our peak months for weddings are May, June, September, and October, but we have something going on here year-round,” she added. Held in the Big Event Center, Crazy K’s Annual Cattle Sale brings cattlemen, ranchers, and spectators in from around the globe.

“I always enjoy the cattle sale because it affords the opportunity to showcase the hard work of Charlie Adkins and the other guys who care for our livestock,” said Knight. “A great deal of pride goes into our work, so it is nice to be able to show it off and say, ‘We did that’.”

Knight also expressed his appreciation for the Annual Bridal Show.

“It is such a fun event and a great way to exhibit what we and others in the community have to offer,” he said.

Marrying fun and information, the show, co-hosted by Huffoto, brings together dozens of local and area vendors presenting the latest in photography, catering, and other special event services.

“The bridal show takes the pressure off [brides] by bringing together everything needed to plan the perfect wedding or other special occasion, all under one roof,” said Knight. “It is extremely well attended and our fashion show is always a favorite among guests.”

While weddings are the main attraction, Crazy K is constantly adding to its services.

“Two of our newest additions are our Cypress rooms and the Chateau at Shiloh,” said Knight.

“In addition to our nine fully-furnished cabin rentals that sleep anywhere from two to eight people, we now have six rooms which bring in a lot of out-of-town guests looking for a peaceful escape.”

Fishing, exploring and grilling is also allowed on the property.

Purchased in 2016, the Chateau at Shiloh is the perfect venue for those wishing for something a bit more polished.

“Our shabby-chic weddings are always popular, but our exquisite Stantonville chateau now offers couples an elegant option,” said Adkins.

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of tourists on approximately 1,200 acres, the charming stone mansion backs up to Shiloh National Military Park and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

“The chateau’s Carriage Room boasts wonderful Chiavari leatherback chairs and other lavish furnishings to add to the ambience,” said Knight as he described the romantic setting.

“There are two rooms on site for guests as well as rooms in the main house.”

With the cool, crisp winds of autumn on the near horizon, the staff at the Chateau at Shiloh is gearing up for their Second Annual Corn Maze.

Sure to have guests grinning from “ear-to-ear”, the maze is part of a quaint little town complete with a general store, concession stand and cotton candy machine.

“It is such a fun event because we get to involve the children from our local schools and churches,” said Knight as he painted a picture of the festivities.

“They have the opportunity to pick pumpkins from our pumpkin patch as well as play in our huge corn crib which is situated in the middle of our town.”

To add to the excitement, there is also a petting zoo with donkeys, horses and other animals as well as live music on the weekends.

Priced at just a couple bucks per person, the three-and-a-half acre corn maze is the perfect way to get lost in the spirit of the season.

According to Knight, there is no age limit to enter the maze and the trip can be a short journey or a long adventure depending on the path chosen.

“Our maze opens in September and will continue until Halloween,” he said. “We are also making preparations for our Santa on the Ranch Christmas event in December.”

Complete with cookies, cocoa, chili, and giveaways, children will have the opportunity to relate their wish-lists to jolly Ol’ St. Nick as they enjoy crafts, refreshments and fellowship.

(Owned by Sammy and Sherry Kiser, Crazy K Ranch is located at 833 North Prather Road in Michie. The Chateau at Shiloh is located at 11200 Hwy 142 in Stantonville. For more information, call 731-610-6109 or visit www. crazykranch.net.)