


There is no better place to celebrate a love that will last a lifetime than amidst the timeless mountains and lakes of Appalachia.
Nestled within expansive views and pastoral landscapes are rustic farms, intimate chapels, lodges, and resorts ideal for any gathering. No matter your taste or style, many of our destination venues offer all the conveniences of an indoor or outdoor affair with settings that promise an endless stream of filter-free photos to be shared and cherished for years to come.
Our community of warm and welcoming wedding planners works to ensure no detail, big or small, goes unnoticed. In their hands, you and your loved ones are free to enjoy the mountains’ magic as you make unforgettable memories.
We at Mountain and Lake Weddings share your excitement for all that lies ahead and are proud you have chosen our community to be a part of your planning process. n
Welcome to the Spring Edition of Mountain & Lake Weddings. This special magazine invites you to plan your special day in the beautiful communities of North Georgia, Western North Carolina, and surrounding areas. We will feature many articles to inspire and help you plan a spectacular and unique event. We invite you to explore our community of professionals in the pages of Mountain & Lake Weddings of planners, venues, photographers, florists, jewelers, and accessories in helping you plan your special day. Be sure to look throughout the magazine for articles and in the back of the book for checklists in preparing for your event. Visit our website www.MtnLakeWeddings.com or follow us on social media, for inspiring ideas, tips, and more about our wonderful area.
Many thanks to the most talented group of advertisers, this would not have been possible without all of your gracious help and enthusiasm. You are all brilliant inspiration in helping couples fulfill their dreams of the perfect day!!
Please be sure to inform each wedding professional you contact that you found them in the Mountain & Lake Weddings.
Blessings & Best Wishes for a Happy Life!!
Kathleen Painter Publisher
Weddings are no longer confined to traditional norms and rigid dress codes. The rise of aesthetic dress code weddings reflects a growing desire among couples to curate visually cohesive, memorable, and personalized celebrations. This trend moves beyond black-tie formalities, inviting guests to become part of an immersive experience where fashion plays a pivotal role in the wedding’s overall ambiance.
What Is an Aesthetic Dress Code?
An aesthetic dress code is a set of style guidelines designed to complement the wedding’s theme, color palette, and atmosphere. Instead of generic instructions like “formal” or “semi-formal,” couples now opt for creative directives such as “Vintage Glam,” “Boho Elegance,” or “Garden Party Whimsy.” These themes provide guests with a clear vision while allowing room for individual expression.
The Appeal of Aesthetic Dress Codes
• Visual Harmony: Coordinated attire enhances the wedding’s visual narrative, making photos more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing.
• Personalization: Couples can reflect their personalities and shared interests through curated styles, from retro-inspired looks to minimalist modern chic.
• Guest Engagement: Unique dress codes create excitement and encourage guests to be active participants in the celebration, fostering a deeper connection to the event.
• Ethereal Romance: Soft pastels, flowing fabrics, and delicate floral details evoke a dreamy, fairytale-like ambiance.
• Modern Minimalism: Sleek lines, monochromatic palettes, and understated elegance emphasize sophistication.
• Rustic Boho: Earthy tones, eclectic patterns, and relaxed silhouettes create a laid-back, nature-inspired vibe.
• Gatsby Glam: Art Deco influences, sequins, and luxurious fabrics transport guests to the opulence of the 1920s.
• Clear Communication: Include detailed style guides with visual references in invitations or wedding websites.
• Flexible Guidelines: Provide broad suggestions to accommodate varying body types, budgets, and personal styles.
• Inspiration Boards: Share mood boards with color schemes, fabric suggestions, and outfit examples to inspire guests.
• Consider Comfort: Ensure the dress code aligns with the venue, weather, and overall wedding vibe to keep guests comfortable.
Aesthetic dress code weddings are a celebration of style, creativity, and individuality. They transform traditional attire expectations into opportunities for artistic expression, ensuring that every guest contributes to the wedding’s unique tapestry. Whether it’s through vintage flair, modern elegance, or whimsical charm, these dress codes help craft unforgettable experiences that are as beautiful as they are meaningful.
• Access to Lake Nantahala & waterfalls.
• 6 suites, 2 kitchens, relaxing front porch, firepit areas, & hiking trails. 828-321-3249 • glenchogalodge.com • 50 Choga Lodge Road • Topton, NC
DAFFODIL The quintessential spring flower; perfect for outdoor weddings and simple, natural floral arrangements. February-May.
HYDRANGEA Add volume to any wedding arrangement with hydrangea. They come in a full range of colors and bloom from spring to fall!
PEONY Available in a variety of colors, peonies offer a romantic and charming touch to your wedding florals. April-June.
TULIP Another iconic spring flower. Not only do they come in a range of colors, but fringe tulips are on trend right now adding flair to the flower.
WISTERIA Cascading flowers everywhere! Use wisteria to brighten a table edge, wedding arch, or flowing bouquet. May.
POPPY Stunning, fragile blooms that are best alongside hardy flowers like ranunculus. Spring-Summer.
SNAPDRAGON Looking for long stems without the thorns? Snapdragons are dramatic and colorful ranging from red to orange and white to pink. Early spring.
Come Dressed & We Do The Rest
* Dressing Rooms for Bride & Groom * Minister and Exchange of Vows * Unity Candle * Music * Photos & DVD * Floral Decor * Reception with Food Get Married in the Beautiful North Georgia Mountains of Scenic Alpine Helen
Specializing in Elopement up to 40 Guests
Affordable Packages to Meet Your Budget
Call to Book Your Wedding Now 706-Tru-Love (878-5683) or 1-800-873-9351
91 Munich Strasse Helen, GA 30545
www.alpineweddingchapel.com info@alpineweddingchapel.com
GARDENIAS Big in size and in scent. These flowers are perfect for boutonnières and stunning bouquets.
ORCHIDS Available in a huge range of colors and varieties. Orchids are an elegant flower for the modern bride.
DAHLIAS Gorgeous blooms with intricate textures and multiple sizes. Available in a range of colors. July-August.
ROSES The classic wedding flower. Dressed up or down for your unique wedding theme. There’s no shortage of color options, either.
CARNATIONS More than just a filler flower! Carnations are simple and perfect for any sophisticated wedding arrangement.
SUNFLOWERS What flower screams summer more than a sunflower? Bright and happy, the perfect bloom for an outdoor, rustic wedding.
GERBERA DAISIES Bright, bold colors and sturdy stalks make daisies perfect for a summer wedding. Classic and charming, full of summer vibes.
When is the guest-of-honor’s birthday?
Who was their first kiss?
Where did they meet their partner?
What’s the their drink of choice?
What’s their middle name?
How many siblings do they have?
Where is the honeymoon?
Who is the partner’s celebrity crush?
What’s the last TV show they binge watched?
What was their first concert?
What’s their biggest pet peeve?
What’s their shoe size?
What was their high school mascot?
What’s the their dream job?
How did their fiancé propose?
What would your fiancé say is his most embarrassing moment?
Where was your favorite date?
When was the first time you said “I love you?”
What nicknames do you have for each other?
What is your fiancé’s worst habit?
What would they say is yours?
How many kids do you want?
Where was your first kiss with your partner?
Who hogs the bed covers?
What is the most memorable present your partner has given you?
What was your first impression of your partner?
When did you know you wanted to marry your partner?
3+ MONTHS OUT
o Choose party dates
o Finalize party location
o Invite all party guests
o Decide travel logistics
o Book your flight
o Remind your guests to book travel
3 MONTHS OUT
o Finalize your guest list
o Start your group chat
o Agree on a budget
o Customize your itinerary
o Vote on the party hashtag
o Reserve & share accommodations
o Create expenses plan
2 MONTHS OUT
o Book your group activity
o Order your custom swag
o Choose bachelorette games
o Create a packing list including any gifts or party needs
1 MONTH OUT
o Finalize your itinerary
o Book all dinner reservations
o Finalize party games
o Remind guests of the packing list
Big blooms spell big romance. Create a full garland of hydrangeas (white or colorful) to drape the length of a table and cascade to the floor for a lush and gorgeous centerpiece.
Who says you have to choose between centerpiece elements? Combine a full garland of your favorite flora with minimalist, sleek lanterns to create a glowing, romantic feel between your tables and guests.
Candles are always a beautiful touch to any table, but you may want consider smaller candles in oversized candelabras with tea lights. Surround the bottoms with your pick of flowers or greenery for an old-world feel.
Keep your wedding au naturale outside, or inside, with pinecones. These natural beauties are a perfect way to warm up a winter wedding reception with small votives and greenery. Scatter them loosely throughout, float them in large glass vases, or string them between larger table pieces like urns and candelabras.
It could be easy to go overboard with a nautical wedding theme, but there’s no reason to drop anchor just yet. A simple knot is a great centerpiece idea that can function as a table card holder, too! Pair your knot with other knot styles, anchors, and plenty of soft green and blue flora for that added “dinner with the captain” feel.
Clean. Simple. Minimal. Sticking to the idea of a floral vase but don’t want anything too wild and distracting? That’s okay! Opt for smaller vases of unique shapes and add minimal blooms. A sprig of pampas grass, a couple of roses, some wheat all add texture and color without becoming too much.
A Venue That Feels Like Home, nestled in the North Georgia Mountains on 23 acres, our semiopen-air, rustic-chic venue features stunning lake and wooded views, rough-sawn lumber from our property, and stained glass windows. Drapes and café lights engulf the space, adding the perfect touch of class and rustic charm.
We offer semi-all-inclusive packages that include décor, linens, plates, silverware, glassware, and three dedicated staff members—just to name a few! With lodging for up to 22 guests, it’s perfect for a fun wedding weekend.
Come see why we were voted Best Venue for 2025 by the Northeast Georgian Reader’s Choice Awards!
Weddings are no longer just traditional ceremonies—they’ve become deeply personal experiences that reflect a couple’s love story, values, and style. Personalized and branded weddings take this concept to the next level, transforming the event into a cohesive and immersive experience that represents the couple’s unique journey together. From the invitations to the décor, every element is carefully curated to align with a distinct aesthetic and emotional theme.
A branded wedding is more than just a stylish event; it’s a thoughtfully designed experience where every detail contributes to a unified theme. This includes a consistent color palette, monograms, and signature motifs that appear throughout the celebration. Whether it’s a rustic outdoor wedding with earthy tones or a glamorous black-tie affair with sleek gold accents, the branding creates a seamless and polished look.
We
One of the first steps in branding a wedding is defining the couple’s personal style. Some may opt for classic elegance with delicate florals and calligraphy, while others may prefer a boho-chic vibe with macramé and earthy tones. The key is to infuse the couple’s personality into every aspect of the wedding, ensuring that it feels authentic and meaningful.
A well-branded wedding incorporates visual and experiential elements that make the event feel cohesive and intentional. Some key elements include:
• Custom Wedding Logo & Monogram
• Signature Colors & Theme
• Personalized Invitations & Stationery
• Branded Wedding Website & Hashtags
• Custom Wedding Favors
• Unique Guest Experience
meaningful moment in a way that aligns with the couple’s vision. A photographer skilled in storytelling can highlight the subtle details that make the wedding unique—whether it’s a custom-embroidered veil, a monogrammed dance floor, or handwritten vows. High-quality visuals ensure that the carefully curated aesthetic is preserved long after the wedding day.
Executing a personalized and branded wedding requires collaboration with creative professionals such as wedding planners, graphic designers, and photographers. By working with experts, couples can ensure that their vision is flawlessly executed, resulting in a celebration that feels uniquely theirs.
Branded weddings rely on professional photography and videography to capture every
A branded wedding isn’t just about style—it’s about telling a love story through thoughtful details. By infusing personality into every element, couples can create an unforgettable event that reflects their journey together, leaving a lasting impact on both themselves and their guests.
Weddings
Branded Weddings
Eco-Sustainable Weddings
As couples become more conscious of their environmental impact, eco-friendly weddings are gaining popularity. A sustainable wedding focuses on reducing waste, supporting ethical vendors, and making mindful choices that minimize harm to the planet while still creating a beautiful and memorable celebration. With careful planning, couples can host a stunning wedding that reflects their values and love for nature without compromising on style or elegance.
One of the most impactful ways to reduce a wedding’s carbon footprint is by selecting an ecofriendly venue. Outdoor locations such as botanical gardens, vineyards, beaches, or forests embrace natural beauty, reducing the need for excessive decorations. Many eco-conscious venues prioritize sustainability by using solar power, composting waste, and sourcing food locally. Holding both the ceremony and reception at the same location can also cut down on transportation emissions for guests.
Paper waste is a significant contributor to weddingrelated environmental impact. Couples can opt for digital invitations, which eliminate paper waste while still offering elegant and customizable designs. For those who prefer physical invitations, choosing recycled paper, plantable seed paper, or soy-based inks can help reduce environmental harm.
Food waste and sourcing practices play a major role in a wedding’s sustainability. Choosing a farm-totable catering service ensures that ingredients are fresh, locally sourced, and organic. Plant-based or vegetarian menus can further reduce the carbon footprint, as meat production has a significant environmental impact. Additionally, couples can work with caterers to donate leftover food to local shelters or compost organic waste.
The fashion industry is known for its environmental impact, but couples can make ethical choices when selecting wedding attire. Sustainable options include:
• Wearing a second-hand or vintage wedding dress
• Renting formalwear instead of purchasing new
• Choosing brands that use organic, fair-trade, or recycled fabrics
• Supporting designers who prioritize ethical labor practices
Bridesmaids and groomsmen can also wear outfits that can be reused for future occasions, rather than single-use attire.
Décor plays a key role in wedding aesthetics, but many decorations are discarded after the event. To minimize waste, couples can:
• Rent decorations such as linens, tableware, and furniture instead of buying new
• Use potted plants or dried flowers instead of cut flowers, allowing guests to take them home or replant them
• Incorporate LED or solar-powered lighting
• Avoid plastic-based decorations and opt for biodegradable materials
For floral arrangements, working with local florists who use organic and pesticide-free flowers can help reduce environmental impact. Donating floral arrangements to hospitals or nursing homes after the wedding also extends their use.
Many wedding favors go unused or end up in landfills. Instead of traditional gifts, couples can offer sustainable favors such as:
• Seed packets for guests to plant at home
• Locally sourced honey, jams, or handmade soaps
• Reusable tote bags or bamboo utensils
Traditional send-offs often include rice, confetti, or balloons, which can harm wildlife and the environment. Alternatives include:
• Biodegradable confetti made from dried flower petals or leaves
• Eco-friendly bubbles
•Sparklers for a dazzling yet waste-free send-off
An eco-friendly wedding proves that sustainability and elegance can go hand in hand. By making mindful choices—from venue selection to catering and décor—couples can celebrate their love while protecting the planet. Thoughtful planning not only reduces waste but also creates a wedding experience that is meaningful, ethical, and inspiring for future generations.
o Tealight candles (if the hotel/resort permits them)
o Massage oils/essential oils
o Lingerie
o A honeymoon playlist with special songs
o Small gifts for each other
o A journal to write down your memories
CARRY-ON
o Passport/driver’s license
o Credit cards: Did you call your bank to say you’ll be traveling overseas?
o Cash
o Copies of all crucial travel documents
o Travel insurance documents
o Emergency contact information
o Prescription medications and a copy of the prescription
o At least one change of clothes
o Basic toiletries (face wash, toothbrush/ toothpaste, deodorant)
o Cell phone and charger
o E-reader and charger, or books and magazines
o A quality camera
o Wedding thank-you notes
For him:
o Button-down shirts
o Tie
o Blazer or sport coat
o One pair of dressy pants
o Dressy (but still comfortable) shoes
For her:
o At least one dressy outfit for dining with matching sweater/shawl
o At least one nice top
o Nice pants or capris
o One pair of heels or dressy flats
For you both:
o T-shirts
o Shorts
o 1-2 bathing suits
o Pajamas/sleepwear
o Socks
o Underwear
o At least one sweatshirt or light jacket
o Rain jacket
o Cold-weather outerwear, if needed
o One pair flip-flops or sandals
o One pair walking shoes
o Sunglasses
o Prescription or reading glasses
o Hat
GEAR, SAFETY, TOILETRIES
o Backpack or beach bag for excursions
o Power outlet adapter, if you’re traveling abroad
o Sunblock and sunburn treatment
o SPF 15 lip balm
o Insect repellent
o Face and body lotion
o Deodorant
o Perfume
o Ear plugs
o Comb and brush
o Hair products
o Shower cap
o Toothbrush & toothpaste
o Mouthwash
o Contact lenses & solution
o Makeup
o Sanitary pads or tampons
o Floss
o Razor
o Nail file and clippers
o Tweezers
o Small first aid kit with Band-Aids and antibiotic ointment
o Baby wipes for quick cleanup
o Travel packs of tissues
o Pain reliever
o Cold medication
o Anti-diarrhea/nausea medication
o Sleep aid
o Hand sanitizer
o Travel clothesline
o Small flashlight
o Pocketknife or multi-tool (stash this in your checked luggage)
DINNERWARE:
o Butter Dish
o Cake Plate
o Dinner Plates
o Salad Plates
o Bread Plates
o Soup Bowls
o Cereal Bowls
o Cup & Saucers
o Coffee Mugs
o Platters
o Serving Bowls
o Salt & Pepper
o Cream & Sugar
o Teapot
GLASSWARE:
o Water Goblets
o Red Wine Goblets
o White Wine Goblets
o Champagne Flutes
o HighBalls
o Cordials
o Ice Bucket/ Tongs
o Punch Bowl
FLATWARE:
o Knives
o Dinner Forks
o Salad Forks
o Soup Spoons
o Spoons
o Tea Spoons
CRYSTAL:
o Pitcher
o Bowl
o Candlesticks
o Vase
COOKWARE:
o Cookware Set
o Casserole
o Double Boiler
o Dutch Oven
o Fry/Omelet Pan
o 10” Skillet
o 12” Skillet
o Roasting Pan
o Saute Pan
o Stock Pot
o Tea Kettle
BAKEWARE:
o Angel Food Cake Pan
o Bowl Set
o Bundt Pan
o Casserole Dish
o Cookie Sheet
o Loaf Pans
o Open Roaster
o Measuring Cups
o Measuring Spoons
o Muffin Pan
o Pie Plate
o Pizza Pan
o Quiche Dish
o Spring Form Pan
o Tart Pan
CUTLERY:
o Boning Knife
o Bread Knife
o Butcher Knife
o Cleaver Knife
o Kitchen Shears
o Paring Knife
o Potato Peeler
o Steak Knife Set
KITCHEN APPLIANCES:
o Blender
o Bread Machine
o Can Opener
o Coffee Maker
o Coffee Mill
o Deep Fryer
o Food Processor
o Fondue
o Hand Mixer
o Iced Tea
o Microwave
o Popcorn Popper
o Rice Cooker
o Stand Mixer
o Toaster
o Toaster Oven
o Waffle Iron
KITCHEN EXTRAS:
o Bottle Opener
o Canister Set
o Can Opener
o Coasters
o Collander
o Cutting Board
o Flour Sifter
o Grater
o Meat Thermometer
o Pastry Brush
o Pizza Cutter
o Rolling Pin
o Spatulas
o Tongs
o Trivets
o Whisks
LAUNDRY:
o Iron & roning Board
o Laundry Basket
o Steamer
6-12 MONTHS AHEAD
o Announce your engagement
o Set the wedding date and send “Save the Date” cards
o Create a wedding budget
o Determine your wedding style - formal or informal, big or small
o Decide on the number of guests you will invite
o Have your family and the groom’s family prepare their invitation lists
o Hire a wedding consultant, if desired
o Decide who will perform the ceremony
o Choose a location for the ceremony and reception
o Choose your attendants
o Start shopping for your dress and accessories
o Start looking for a caterer, florist, DJ or band, photographer and videographer
o If you are getting married in a church or synagogue, meet with the officiant to discuss the ceremony and to arrange pre-marital counseling, if required.
4-6 MONTHS AHEAD
o Order the invitations, announcements, programs, and thank-you cards
o Book calligrapher for the invitations, if using one
o Select and order Bridesmaids’ dresses and shoes
o Urge your mother and future mother-in-law to shop for their dresses
o Decide what the groom and his attendants will wear
o Register for gifts
o Plan your honeymoon and make reservations
o Purchase wedding rings
o Buy stockings and special lingerie that your dress requires
o Choose reception favors
o Choose gifts for attendants and your groom
o Make a hotel reservation for your wedding night
o Make hotel reservations for your out of town guests
o Book hairstylist and makeup artist for your wedding
o Take dance lessons
2-4 MONTHS AHEAD
o Meet with caterer and decide menu
o Attend cake tasting and decide on wedding cake and groom’s cake
o Discuss service with the officiant
o Choose readings and music for ceremony
o Write your wedding vows, if you choose
o Schedule your rehearsal time and dinner
o Make arrangements for rehearsal dinner
o Have your first dress fitting
o Mail invitations
1-2 MONTHS AHEAD
o Write thank you notes as gifts arrive
o Make arrangements for transportation for the two of you from the wedding site to the reception
o Buy a guest book and select someone to preside over it at the reception
o Have programs printed
o Obtain marriage license and request certified copies
o If you intend to change your name, prepare the necessary documents
o Have trial run with hairstylist and makeup artist, with veil and accessories
o Set wedding day appointments with your stylist and manicurist
o Send change of address information to the post office, if necessary
o Have your final dress fitting with your alterations
o Send wedding announcement to the local newspaper
2-3 WEEKS AHEAD
o Have final dress fitting with accessories and lingerie
o Draw up seating plan for the reception and make card for the head table if necessary
o Notify caterer of guest count
o Write toasts for rehearsal dinner and wedding reception
o Address announcements
o Break in wedding shoes at home
o Confirm your honeymoon travel arrangements
o Designate someone to look after your home and pets while on your honeymoon
o Confirm accommodations for out of town guests.
1 WEEK AHEAD
o Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony and reception
o Go over final details with the reception site coordinator, florist, cake baker, DJ or band, photographer and videographer
o Be sure that the attendants have everything they need for the wedding such as jewelry, shoes, and stockings
o Finalize reception seating plan, if necessary
o Pick up wedding dress
o Confirm details with caterer
o Assign specific responsibilities, such as handing out corsages and boutonnieres, to members of your wedding party
o Pack for honeymoon
o Make sure that attendants know what time to be at the rehearsal and ceremony
1 DAY AHEAD
o Write checks to all vendors, put in envelope, and give to your Maid of Honor or Best Man to pass out
o Pack everything that you will need for the ceremony
o Give announcements to an attendant for mailing after the wedding
o Make arrangements with the Best Man to return all tuxedo rentals
o Have manicure and pedicure
o Rehearse ceremony
o Hold rehearsal dinner and give gifts to attendants and parents to show your appreciation for their support, if you desire
THE WEDDING DAY
o Eat something for breakfast - this will be a long day ahead
o Give your Maid of Honor and Best Man the wedding bands
o See your hair stylist and makeup artist for final preparations
o Gather your dress and accessories and head to the ceremony
o GET MARRIED!
6 MONTHS
o Decide division of financial obligations
o Set budget
o Set appointment with clergyman
o Prepare your guest list
o Choose your Best Man and ushers (one per every 50 guests)
o Plan your honeymoon
o Check passports and visas, if necessary
o Make reservations for rehearsal dinner
o Take dance lessons
4 MONTHS
o Select formal wear
o Find a new place to live, if necessary
o Make reservations for honeymoon
o Shop for honeymoon clothing
2 MONTHS
o Buy wedding bands and order engraving
o Set date with your fiancé to obtain marriage license (state laws vary as to the length a license is valid)
1 MONTH
o Select your bride’s gift and gifts for your groomsmen
o Review legal, medical, and church or synagogue documents
o Reserve limousine and/or arrange special transportation for bridal couple and wedding party
o Confirm honeymoon details and reservations
2 WEEKS
o Arrange to move your belongings into your new home, if necessary
o Have bachelor party or dinner
o Schedule hair appointment
1 WEEK
o Confirm time and place of wedding rehearsal and rehearsal dinner with all attendants
o Provide final guest count for rehearsal dinner to caterer or restaurant
o Pick up wedding bands
o Pick up formal wear
o Give best man the clergyman’s fee in sealed envelope for delivery
o Pack for honeymoon
o Relax and get ready to enjoy the most amazing day of your life!
NOTES
These are simply estimations of the cost distribution of a wedding. Decide what elements of the wedding are most important to you and start planning, beginning with the biggest expense and what is of the most importance.