GETTING IN THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

The leaves are turning and the weather is changing.  The stores are already displaying holiday decor and gifts.  So, is it too early to start planning your holiday party?  Whether you are planning an office party, a company wide party or thinking about a party in your home to celebrate the holiday season, NOW is the time to start doing it.  In my years of running restaurants and banquets, by the end of September we always had limited dates available for parties.  

It's hard to start thinking of snow and lights and Christmas trees when the days are still warm.  Getting a head start will ensure your party will be where you want and when you want.  Today I have some ideas for entertaining your coworkers and your friends.  And, some tips on things to think about while deciding what kind of event you want to have.

Choosing a venue is the first thing you want to do.  If you already have a date in mind, the earlier the better.  Remember, this is still wedding season, as well as the time when everyone is vying for the best venues.  So, choose your date and book it.  

Is this going to be an adults only, evening affair or a Sunday afternoon with children?  If you want an elegant affair to appreciate the hard work of your employees, make it an evening party, but don't leave out the whimsy.  Cocoa, candy canes and lots of candles keep the festive atmosphere, but also make it grown up.

If you want to share the holiday spirit with all of the families that make your company great, You may want to have some kid friendly decor and plan something for the kids to do- Santa Claus, gingerbread houses to make, a holiday photo booth for everyone to get involved with.  Having a cocoa station or a s'mores station will make everyone smile.  These ideas are fun, yet not too childlike.  Put a candy cane in the children's stocking and a Christmas bonus in the adults stocking.  Everyone will be happy and entertained.

Don't forget to include all the holidays!  Diversity is so important to your employees.  Please don't leave anyone out.  Make the decor fit a winter theme or just use gold and silver to make the room shimmer like snow.  Lighting gives the room an ambiance.  This is a time to share the love and friendship, the hard work of a year of growth and the promise of a new year to continue working together.  Make it for everyone.  Everyone likes to use the holidays as an excuse to have a party at home.  What better time than when the house is all decked out in holiday splendor?!  This is a good time to hire the help.  There are companies that will provide the bartenders and waitstaff to serve what you have created in your own kitchen.  You have done the work, now let someone else serve it while you enjoy your guests.  Or, take all the pressure off and hire a caterer.  You can decide on just cocktails and light bites for an open house, or have a seated dinner for a select group.  Just don't forget dessert.

  However you decide to celebrate your holiday spirit, make it festive, make it fun and HIRE help.  This is your time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor.  Leave the work to the pros.  Happy Holidays!

DAYDREAMING

Today, I just want to share some inspiration.  Whatever your wedding vision, I can help you find your dream.  Contact me today to set up a free consultation.  ENJOY!

                                                                 Whimsical Southern Charm

                                                                   Into The Woods












                                                                                                  

 Secret Gardens                               



































                                                    
                                                      

Gothic Beauty










                                                          Romantic Dream

                                                    

Earthy Industrial Chic

Sophisticated Art Deco 

BRIDAL MARKET

Its almost October and that means its time for bridal market.  What's trending for 2020, you ask?  Taking a queue from Meghan Markle, the clean, minimalist long sleeve is definitely at the top of the list.  And, for the bride who doesn't want the traditional gown- jumpsuits, pants and a blouse and satin cargo pants will be donning the runways.  Everything is lighter, from crinolines to corsets to embroidery, as brides don't want to be weighted by their bridal attire.  Feathers, whimsical bustles, headbands instead of veils and the decline of the "naked dress" giving way to a more covered up look, without being too modest are all en vouge.  Other trends include big, sheer sleeves, two piece dresses and the little white dress for your party.  With all these choices, it will be easy for every bride to find her style.  
Now that you know what to shop for, lets talk about where to shop in the Philadelphia area for some of the top designers.  I have chosen four salons, two on the Main Line and two in Center City. Plus I am going to tell you about a concept store in the city that may be right up your alley. Lets start with shopping on the Main Line of Philadelphia, for the more traditional, upscale bride.  There are other shops, I have been to them all with my clients over the years.  However, for the ultimate shopping experience and the most choices, these two fit the bill.

Elizabeth Johns is in Ardmore, in the Shops at Suburban Square.  When you walk into the bright and beautiful surroundings of this salon, you will be instantly greeted for your appointment.  The selection here includes dresses for the bride, bridesmaids, moms and flower girls.  Some of the top designers are featured here.  For the bride, I have chosen six designers, but there are more.  These designers are timeless, enduring and always beautiful. From top left and clockwise- Reem Acra, Inbal Dror, Anne Barge, Amsale, Mira Zwillinger and Carolina Herrara.  

Bridesmaids selections include, Elizabeth Johns exclusives, Dessy and Amsale.  The newest trends and a rainbow of colors will make shopping for your maids a piece of cake.  Evening attire, perfect for the moms includes Frascara, John Paul Ataker,Wayne Clark Janique and Teresa Ripoli.  I have seen, first hand how attentive they are and how beautiful and plentiful their selection is.  so, make your appointment today.
Elizabeth Johns
46 St James Place
Ardmore, Pa 19003
610-649-8100 
  
                                                                                  Travel down Lancaster Avenue into Chester County and you will find Van Cleve Wedding Pavilion.  Think PINK when you walk into this salon.  Its a girly dream come true.  From the pink paint, to the crystal chandeliers to the flower wall, not to mention all the gorgeous dresses.  The bridal team here is top notch and very savvy.  And, Deborah, the owner is a fixture on the Main Line.  Some of the bridal designers featured here, From top left clockwise-  are Hayley Paige, Ysa Makino, Sareh Nouri, Pronovias, Stephen Yearick and Romona Keveza.  Bridesmaids include Hayley Paige, Watters and Jenny Yoo.  And, for those special moms selections include Rina di Montella, Rene Ruiz and Alex Teih.  While you are here, you can also shop for veils, jewelry and the perfect dress for the littlest of your wedding party.  I just know this will be a wonderful bridal experience for you.  So, make your appointment soon.  
Wedding Pavilion
1604 E. Lancaster Avenue
Paoli, Pa 19301
610-647-5055


If you are a city girl, these next two salons are perfect!  The Philadelphia Bridal Company is a tiny boutique in Center City.  If you are interested in Tara Keely or Atelier Pronovias, this is the place for you.  Ashley keeps things very limited, so that she can provide the best service to a specific bride. You are modern, think outside the box and have a flair for fashion.  There are no traditional gowns here.  You must have at least a $2000 budget to make an appointment.  Once there, you will have a very personal experience.  You can even feel free to bring some white wine or champagne to celebrate!  Ashley and her team are so much fun.  It will be like buying your gown in your own living room.   This salon is by appointment only. So, make yours today.                                                        

Philadelphia Bridal Company
1218 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19107
267-239-5443

The Wedding Factor is in the funky, fun part of the city.  Located on south Street in Head House Square, this upscale salon caters to the modern bride.  If you are looking for couture bridal, this is the place.  Designers here include Elizabeth Fillmore, Yolancris, Justin Alexander, and the exclusive carrier of Berta Bridal.  They also carry Stella York and Stella York Plus Size.  Just look at these gowns!  On the cutting edge of bridal.  Make your appointment here.

The Wedding Factor
125 South Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19147
267-861-0409

I told you at the beginning of this that I was going to tell you about another concept salon.  Lovely Bride is a new idea in bridal.  For the bride who has vision, or at least an idea of what she wants, this salon is perfect.  The concept for this idea started with the idea that bridal shopping could be "cool".  This "chain" of salons across the country has a unique process for selecting your gown.  Go on the web site and select the type of dresses you like and want to try on.  Add them to your wishlist.  Then, make an appointment to go try on.  The staff will be ready for you with your choices and others that may fit your style.  How cool is that!  There is nothing stuffy or judgmental here.  Just fun and a relaxed atmosphere.  The designers- Watters, Jenny Yoo and more from BHLDN.  I love this idea.   You will love the experience.  
Lovely Bride
237 Market Street
Philadelphia, Pa 19106
215-627-1800


Now, before I go, here are some general tips for wedding gown shopping.  

1. Make and appointment.  Most salons require it and you will get much more personal service.

2. Wear the proper undergarments.  Please wear panties and not a thong.   If you have a strapless bra- great.  And, no flashy colors or crazy prints.

3. Do your hair and make up.  You want to get a picture of what you will look like and going shopping looking a mess won't help.

4. DO NOT take a lot of people.  Most salons are not equipped for large groups and too many opinions are confusing.  Most salons do not allow anyone to pull gowns without the help of a salesperson.  So, the bigger the group, the harder it is for the staff to manage the crowd.

5. Remember whose wedding this is!!!  Everyone has a style- but, this is YOUR DAY.  Don't listen to anyone who says they don't like the dress.  If you feel like a bride- ITS YOUR DAY!!!  

Finally, don't buy a wedding on line.  Gowns that are advertised on line from anonymous sites for crazy low prices are not for real.  You will be sorry.  Go to a reputable salon where you can see the dress and have all the services of a salon experience.  HAPPY SHOPPING!! 

PHILADELPHIA AND NEW JERSEY WEDDINGS

Well, we have circled the country and stopped along the way at some beautiful and unique venues for your perfect wedding.  And, today I end this journey with a look at some of the local beauties from my home town of Philadelphia and neighboring New Jersey.  I chose some magical venues in New Jersey and scattered them from north central New Jersey to the beaches of south Jersey.  So, lets start at the top. 

Pleasantdale Chateau is a glorious, fairy tale location with a rich history.  Located in West Orange, it was once a Dutch farm.  The chateau, a stately Norman structure was built in 1912.  However, the farm remains today and is used to provide produce, herbs and honey for the chateau kitchens.  With 30 guest rooms on the property, you and your guests can spend the weekend enjoying the beautiful lawns and gardens or taking a jaunt into NYC for a day of sightseeing.  

Once through the gatehouse, your wedding backdrop of lush gardens, ponds and little bridges begins.  Your guests will be wowed by the 17th century floor tiles, the limestone columns and the crystal chandelier.  From the Music Room to the Ballroom, every detail of your wedding will be a magical experience.  And, my friend, Santiago and his team will see your every need.  this is truly a dream come true venue.  Your childhood dreams of a fairy tale wedding will surely come true here.

A little further south is the idyllic Ashford Estate.  Travel down a country road, over an antique steel bridge and onto the property, guarded by lions at the iron gates.  Surrounded by old pines, stone ruins, lush gardens, fountains and a gazebo stands the estate.  Included in this vision are a perfectly restored barn chapel, carriage house and ballroom.  There is a charming suite for you to prepare and a place for the groom and his men to relax and get ready.  Your ceremony in the barn chapel or on the grounds leads to cocktails on the terrace and a night of delicious food and beautiful surroundings in the ballroom.  And, after the party is over, you and your guests can retire to the beautifully appointed guests rooms.   You won't be disappointed by anything when you plan your wedding in this luxury venue.

Another luxurious venue in central Jersey is Natirar.  Raritan spelled backwards, this ivy covered, Tudor mansion sits on 90 acres of green lawns.  Once a private home for a wealthy NY family, it is now a perfect destination for your dream wedding.  Weddings for as many as 225 guests can take place here.  Plan a small, intimate affair in the carriage house and outdoors or a more elegant affair for 225 in the conservatory and ballroom.  This is a countryside estate and a trip back in time for you and your guests.  A lovely location for your big day.

Now, lets head to the beach.  The Reeds at Shelter Haven in Stone Harbor is a beautiful waterfront venue.  Capture the moment of your first look on the docks or the beach.  Cocktails on the terrace overlooking the water. And, dinner and dancing in the Grass Roots Ballrooom, surrounded by windows overlooking the bay and spilling out onto the terrace.  Dessert is served under the stars and then spend the night remembering every special moment as you luxuriate in your suite.  If you are a beach bum at heart, you need to see this venue.  

Another beach resort that deserves mention is Bonnet Island on Long Beach Island.  I had to tell you about this beautiful place because LBI is my happy place and I want it to be yours.  Weddings on Long Beach Island are so amazing and intimate.  And, Bonnet Island is no exception.  This waterfront plantation style estate will welcome you with open arms and sea air.  


Begin your day in the bridal parlor being pampered and sipping champagne, while your groom is lounging in the groom's private hideaway.  When its time, say your I Do's in the darling boathouse chapel.  I love it!!  Then, its off to the veranda overlooking the marshes and the bay for cocktails.  When its time for dinner and dancing, its off to the majestic ballroom with its cathedral ceiling, resembling the inverted hull of a sailing ship.   This is a beach-goer's dream destination and a beautiful place for your nuptials.  

Over the bridge and back in Philadelphia.  I can't stay within the city limits here, as some of my very favorite places are on the outskirts.  But, rest assured, the city and its history are evident in all of my choices.  The first four venues are in the city.  Combined with some of the best and most fun hotels in the city, these venues will cater to whatever your wedding vision.  

PAFA- Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, an art gallery of epic beauty.  Situated on Broad Street overlooking City Hall, this landmark building has two venues to choose from.  The Landmark Building, a Victorian Gothic masterpiece, opened in 1876 as a fine art museum, complete with its majestic marble stairs and bronze and mahogany railings, it makes the most breathtaking backdrop for your ceremony.  After you are pronounced husband and wife, head up the stairs to the gallery for cocktails.  Dinner is in the main hall and your guests are surrounded by art from 1760 to the present.  
Or, opt for the more modern Hamilton Building.  Once an automobile showroom, this glass building is on two levels with a second floor wall of windows, overlooking Broad Street, for your cocktail hour.  Dinner is in the gallery.  This is a must see for any city bride.  And, its one of my favorite to work in.  

Just a few blocks away, is the Free Library of Philadelphia.  Spanning an entire block, this historic building has a beautiful grand lobby and the best rooftop in the city.  Opened in 1927, this massive and grand building is a wonderful place to combine history and the modern skyline of Philadelphia.  Your ceremony happens in the lobby, with the grand staircase as the backdrop.  Imagine coming down these stairs to your groom.  After your I Do's its up to the roof for cocktails and dinner.  You can have it tented, in case of weather or just take your chances with the weather gods and enjoy the glorious view of the city.  You can also have your entire wedding in the lobby.  Take a look and see for yourself.

Our next stop is in Fairmount Park and one of the most famous buildings in Philadelphia.  The Please Touch Museum, a children's museum in Memorial Hall, a looming building that was the hub of the 1876 centennial celebration.   Beautifully restored, it is a whimsical venue with many possibilities for your wedding celebration.  The South Foyer can accommodate 250 guests. Hamilton Hall 550.  The Carousel House- complete with a real 1908 carousel, is perfect for a group of 200 or your cocktail hour.   There are several other galleries for larger groups and Brulee Catering will make sure your guests are well fed and happy all night.

From the bustle of the city to the peaceful beauty of the main line of Philadelphia.  We are going to Appleford in Villanova.  If I had to pick a venue to be married, this may be it.  You enter down a stone drive and over a bridge to the house.  It looks like a country manor house.  Once the home of a prominent main line family, it is now a place for you to begin your married life.  Marry under the willow tree or in the rose garden.  Cocktails can be in the house or in the garden.  Dinner and dancing under the stars on the beautiful tented patio.  If a garden wedding is what you want, Appleford is the place.  If I could work there every weekend, I would.  Its that special.  

From the main line to Bucks County we go.  The Inn at Barley Sheaf, another country manor house, this one with a restored barn, has been entertaining guests for a long time.  A quaint bed and breakfast, just outside New Hope, it sits on land that once belonged to the Lenni Lenape Indians.  The manor house was built in 1740, from a land grant from William Penn.  The barn was built in the 1800's.  The home was once owned by the the playwright George Kaufman and most of the rooms are named after his works.  Today, it is a place to enjoy a wedding weekend with family and friends.  Stay in the inn, dine with the chef, plan your wedding day meal and walk the grounds- its beautiful!  Your wedding and cocktail hour take place in the gazebo and on the terrace.  The beautiful barn is for dinner and dancing.  You can have a bonfire by the big old oak tree and continue to enjoy your day even after the guests are gone.  I don't have a photo, but we even did a Chinese lantern launch at one of my weddings, in the field beside the barn.  The owners are very accommodating and treat you like you were visiting their home.  You will feel very comfortable here.  I highly recommend it. 

So ends our cross country site visit.  I hope you enjoyed it.  If you have questions or want more information, please contact me.  I do travel and will be glad to assist you in planning your wedding anywhere in the USA.  As always, HAPPY PLANNING!

MORE VENUES- MARYLAND AND DELAWARE

We are getting closer to home.  And, after a few days of rest, we are now on the last leg of the journey to find the best venue for your wedding.  Today we travel from Maryland to Delaware.  These two states have everything- from beaches to castles to industrial chic.  

Maryland is a great state to find a unique venue.  I am going to show you six, but there are so many more!  So, lets get going.  We have a lot of road to travel today.

Corradetti Glassblowing Studio is a place I know.  Its nestled in the center of a restored industrial corner of Baltimore.  And, its a perfect spot for you artsy couples.  Originally built, in 1789, as a cotton mill to weave cotton duck into sails for clipper ships, it is now a glassblowing studio that creates beautiful art pieces.  You will be surrounded by the beautiful art pieces that are made here, while enjoying the warm and cozy setting of the studio- kilns and all.  There is a stage for the ceremony or the sweetheart table.  There is a built in bar and you won't need much in the way of decor- its all around you.  After the reception, you can all spill out into the courtyard or next door to the  Woodbury Kitchen to keep the party going.  The food and the atmosphere are amazing.  My couple got fabulous pictures in the courtyard.  A definite "must see" for a Baltimore wedding.

Staying in Baltimore and with the industrial chic, The Mt Washington Mill Dye House is another beautiful venue.  Authentic wood beams, exposed brick, multi-pane windows and distressed concrete floors make this a dream location for the modern couple.  There are indoor and outdoor spaces for up to 200 guests.  And, your wedding photos will be amazing.

Moving to a much grander environment, the George Peabody Library, on the grounds of Johns Hopkins University, couldn't be much grander.  Opening its doors in 1878, it is called the Cathedral of Books.  Your wedding will take place surrounded by the six tiers of cast iron columns and ornate railings, decorated in gold leaf and the vast collections and exhibits, giving your guests an opportunity to meander during the evening.  The library comfortably holds up to 200 guests.  This is a great venue for history buffs or alumni of the university.  It is a WOW!

Ever dream of being in a real life fairy tale?  Well, here is your chance.  the Castle at Maryvale is just that, a castle!  Fashioned after Warwick Castle in England, this medieval recreation was completed in 1912 as a private estate.  It is now the home of a private, parochial prep school.  But, it could be your Cinderella castle for the day.  You will make a grand entrance from the winding stair and spend the evening in all the splendor of a medieval castle.  Antiques abound and arched windows, huge fireplaces and perfectly manicured gardens are everywhere.  There is a solarium, a wedding chapel, plenty of terraces to capture your photos on and much more. If you have always dreamed of being a princess on your wedding day, The Castle at Maryvale is the venue of your dreams.  


The Engineer's Club, actually the largest townhouse in Baltimore, this turn of the century mansion is the pride of the Golden Age.  Elegance and opulence abound here.  Gilded mirrors, huge fireplaces, ornate ceilings and all the trappings of the wealthiest of society at the time, will surround you and your guests.  Take your wedding back to a time of lush parties and grand living.   

Lets go to the beach.  Chesapeake Bay Beach Club is our final stop in Maryland before we travel north to Delaware.  Weddings here are a vacation for you and your guests.  The inn has beautifully appointed rooms and plenty of dining choices.  And, from your waterfront ceremony to your reception in one of the four ballrooms, there is something for everyone.  The Eastern Shore is a relaxing and beautiful destination.  And, who doesn't like a wedding at the shore.  North to Delaware and the Brandywine Valley.  this takes us mostly from Wilmington to the border with Pennsylvania.  

The Hotel DuPont, a stately and elegant landmark in the center of Wilmington is a step back into the Gilded Age.  From the jaw-dropping lobby with its ornate brass railing on the stairs, marble floors and ornate ceiling to the two gorgeous ballrooms, your wedding will be the talk of the town.  This venue I have worked 
and I can tell you, you will be treated like royalty.  The staff is professional and the service and food are impeccable.  

The dramatic Gold Ballroom with its glittering chandeliers and gilded rosettes is a splendid room for your large wedding of up to 500.  The du Barry Ballroom is a Federal style room with white pillars, parquet floors and a magnificent chandelier in the center of the room.  

Since 1913, the Hotel Dupont has been lavishing attention to detail on its guests.  And, you will not be any different.  You will absolutely be thrilled with the choice to host your wedding in this landmark setting.

As this area of Delaware is home to the DuPont family for generations, what better than to make our next stop the Winterthur Estate.  Set amid the forests and rolling hills of Wilmington, this 1837 Greek Revival home is now home to a wonderful museum and wedding venue.  If your vision is one of the Gatsby Era or Art Deco, this is the place for you.  Its one of my favorite venues, visually.  But, one word of advice- hire a planner.  You will need someone to navigate the property and your guests.  This elegant old home is sure to please the history buff.

I have to add this charming little Inn, as it is the perfect spot to stay if you are getting married in the Brandywine Valley.  My last Winterthur bride used the Inn at Montchanin as her base and everyone had a wonderful time.  If you are planning a small wedding of 60 guests or less, you can also be married in this quaint and charming hideaway.  The rooms are all unique and beautifully furnished.  There is dining on site- its delicious.  The photo ops are unlimited- even in the snow.  There is a spa on site.  There is a common area that can be used for greeting your out of town guests- just like you were gathering in your living room.  This is a historic property, dating back to 1799 and the DuPonts ( this was once part of Winterthur).  It is a charming little village.  

Over the border into Pa are two venues that need mention.  The first is The Gables at Chadds Ford.  This charming spot in the heart of the Brandywine Valley boasts incredible cuisine, beautiful gardens and the 1897 bank barn for your special day.  There is a beautiful terrace for your ceremony and cocktail hour and you will love the open and bright barn for dinner and dancing.  

Terrain is a magical place.  Located in Glen Mills, this horticultural landmark, with farm to table menus and in house floral design makes a beautiful and intimate place for you to say your I Do's.  There is a Garden Shed, a Mushroom House- used for the bride and her maids to dress and a restored barn.  There is also a wedding temple for your ceremony.  This may also be a great place to host your rehearsal dinner, if your wedding is in a nearby venue.  

Two states and 11 venues- only a scratch of the surface.  There are others.  These are just some of my favorites.  Hope you can make one of them your favorite too.

DESTINATION ATLANTA

Beyond these tall modern buildings lies some of the richest history of the south.  We are going to explore some of that history today, while we check out some of the best places to get married.  

An imposing blue door is the center of Swan House.  The gardens are beautiful and surround the 1928 home of the Inman family.  Your ceremony happens in the gardens or at the bottom of the stone steps that lead up to the house.  Then, its a short walk over the bridge to the Grand Ballroom.  This impressive bit of history has many possibilities for your wedding celebration.  

The Foundry at Puritan Mill is a versatile venue.  Once the home of the Puritan Chemical Company, making and storing soap and cleaning products, this space has been transformed into a dramatic place to host your wedding.  With its pine beams, skylights and concrete floors, your vision of a modern, chic wedding in a historical setting can be realized.  

How about a wedding on a farm?!  The 1840's  Smith Family Farm survived the Civil War, and remains the oldest in Atlanta.  Once a Pig farm, this historical farm is now open to host your wedding.  A rustic feel, beautiful trees and gardens all come together at this charming destination.  Your guests can explore the house and gardens.  Dine in the garden, under the trees.  The space holds up to 200 guests and is a perfect spot for a wedding.  

I promised you a plantation and here it is.  Flint Hill is the perfect antebellum mansion for an elegant affair.  Original floors and mantles, lush gardens, a gazebo and the ballroom, encased in glass, overlooking the courtyard.  Perfect for spring or summer weddings.  

While we are on the subject of stately, elegant venues, I would be remiss if I didn't tell you about The Biltmore Ballroom.  Built in 1924, the Biltmore Hotel was a hub for business and social occasions.  Today, after a massive renovation, it has been transformed into a premier event space for your big day.  Two ballrooms, The Georgian and the Imperial, have been restored with original handcrafted ceilings, marble floors, Palladian windows and crystal chandeliers.  You will feel like royalty in this opulent setting.


Of course, there are plenty of modern, industrial raw spaces to be had in this city.  The Cotton Gin is one not to be missed.  This early 1900's cotton gin boasts cedar walls, crystal chandeliers, vaulted ceilings and two centuries old water wheels.  There are two ceremony spots, both indoor and outdoor.  The groom and his men will enjoy a great "man cave" experience while getting ready and the bride and her maids will relax in the beautiful bridal suite.  This is really a wonderful choice for the modern couple looking for a bit of old world charm and great amenities.

The Engine Room is another funky and fun industrial place to hold your wedding.  It once held the engines that ran the cotton mills in this 1895 building.  Original wood flooring, weathered paint, pine columns, exposed brick and iron bars on the windows make this vintage beauty one to see.  There is an outdoor patio and plenty of photo ops.  Its a great place for a larger wedding, as it can hold 400 guests for a seated meal.  

Last stop on this tour is a real gem.  The Cloister Garden is like a magical place out of a fairy tale.  From the tiny moss covered chapel with stained glass windows and pine pews, to the garden with its magnificent canopy of grand oaks and the ballroom with its decorative ceiling and ornate chandeliers, you will feel like a fairy tale princess on your wedding day.  Located on Sea Island, on the southeastern shore, its not Atlanta, but its worth the ride.  There is something for every couple in this history drenched city and beyond.  So, happy hunting for your piece of history.