Why I LOVE what I do! - Wedding Ceremony Officiant - http://WeddingWoman.net

Why I LOVE what I do….©©©

  Today I found a moving wedding video on Facebook and shared it with ‘my fans’ http://www.brides.com/blogs/aisle-say/2011/02/wedding-video-couture-motion.html .   I prefaced it by saying that it was a great example of why I love weddings as much as I do…

I meet the nicest people, go to beautiful places and everyone is in a good mood because it is a celebration!  But, it is much more than that...

  I sometimes wish I had a wedding venue on Lake Hartwell.  There is a very real need for one.  Had I known 'back then’ that I was going to grow up to be "The WeddingWoman"  I would have one!   But, at this point in my life it would be too much work to maintain a venue and a large property so I am content.  I do love going to all of the venues and get excited when a couple ‘invites’ me to a new one I have not seen.  I tell myself that I would get bored doing the same thing over and over again in the same place… and perhaps that is true.

   But the very best part of what I do isn’t the place or the nice people at the wedding.  It’s the couple and my connection with them.  After I do the Opening  Remarks and Words of Welcome, I turn my attention to ‘my couple’ and I barely know the guests are ‘out there’.  It’s as if I’m speaking with only them …it’s ‘just the three of us’ and I think that for many,  that it is that way for them as well.

  I love to meet with my couples and interact with them as they move thru the process of planning their wedding.  I get quite close with some of the brides and in the past  felt a little ‘at a loss’ after the wedding was over and I didn’t hear from them any more.   

   Then I ‘discovered’ Facebook.I had been there with my personal page for quite awhile but rarely checked in.  After talking with a photographer buddy about how he kept in touch with his clients I decided to create a business page :  http://Facebook.com/BrendaOwenOfficiant

  I started connecting with my couples -  past, present and future and  I love it!     Some of my married couples are pregnant or have their first child.  Some are buying their first home, some pursuing careers.  I am very proud of all of them and on their wedding day this is exactly my hope and prayer for them…they they will always remain best friends and each other’s greatest love.  It reminds me of the song made famous by the Carpenters: “We've only just begun to live - White lace and promises - A kiss for luck and we're on our way - So much of life to live… We've only begun.    
   And so, what is the VERY best part of what I do?   The privilege to be the one to take 'my couple' from being 'two people in love' to 'husband and wife'!  In the seconds it takes to say "I declare that you are now husband and wife!"   Their eyes always light up and they smile at each other - priceless!  I love being able to not only a create a moment, but also a memory.
I  am honored and privileged to have the opportunity to serve them by writing and officiating their wedding ceremony. 
©©©

http://WeddingWoman.net 

Divorce Ritual / Ceremony - AKA -> A Healing & Transition Ceremony

  A nice lady named Jackie called me today.  She had picked up one of my business cards at the Christian book store. She told me that when she saw it she thought to herself that I was just what she has been looking for.  Jackie said she is engaged to be married but first she wants to have a 'divorce ceremony' with her ex-husband, their children, family and some close friends present.  She said that her friends think she's crazy for wanting to do such a thing and asked if I could help.  I responded that I never had, but that I was confident I could.   Immediately a scene from the movie "The Jerk" with Steve Martin and Bernadette Peters came into my mind...the part where he does the ritual and says, "  I break with thee, I break with thee, I break with thee!"   
  We spoke for a while and after we hung up I got to thinking...A couple that can come out of a marriage and remain friends especially when children are involved is a wonderful thing.  What if we can help our friends and family understand that they don't have to 'choose sides'...that we can all come out of this in a spirit of acceptance?  

   We have a ceremony for everything else why not divorce?   We have showers and ceremonies for the birth of a new child, graduation ceremonies, housewarmings for new homeowners, wedding ceremonies for couples that wish to be married, funerals for the dearly departed...why not a ceremony to bid a fond farewell and 'have a good life' to your ex and ‘that chapter’ of your life while looking forward to the next?  

   It seemed like a good idea to me.   Many divorced people have a difficult time realizing or accepting the fact that their relationship is dead.  The parties involved have nothing to lose and much to gain psychologically from such a ceremony.  

    Hopefully it will help ease some of the pain, devastation, guilt and failure that so often result from divorce; to create an awareness that can help mend...bless the past and move on with productive lives. 

   Think about it this way, by putting an end to your marriage you will give yourself a fresh start and give your life a sense of renewal. A divorce ceremony does not abandon the past; it reclaims it and should be a healing and transition ceremony that celebrates life.

   Perhaps, by participating in a divorce ceremony that recognizes the event of divorce with compassion and dignity, those who have experienced divorce personally or in the lives of their loved ones will recognize the importance of paying homage to this life transition.

   So, all this being said I now offer 'divorce ceremonies'...my mission is to create a ceremony that reflects your wishes, beliefs, cultural background and values - religious or non-religious to help couples celebrate their decision to separate. I believe that a ceremony of this kind with your friends and family gathered in the spirit of acceptance and love will welcome a new day with renewed commitments for growth and fulfillment.  
It can be done with 'just' the ex-wife  or ex-husband or both together.   More info at this NY Times article here

http://WeddingWoman.net 

Rehearsal - to Rehearse or not Rehearse - THAT is the question!!

In the not too distant past, I was getting ready to start the wedding ceremony processional (right on time, of course).   I asked the groom if he was going to seat his mother.  He replied, “Now, how does this work?”  I asked, “How did you do it at rehearsal last night?”  His reply...(drum roll please)... “We didn’t have one.”  {{crickets}}  Huh?!?   I talked briefly with the photographer (who was with the bride and bridesmaids) and together we managed to quickly put together a plan to have the grandparents and parents seated, the groom and groomsmen walk out with me and she sent the ‘ladies’ down, one by one..then the beautiful bride and her father - Whew!    Everyone walked too fast but the bride and groom were sort of unconventional so I expect the guests didn’t notice.

What is a wedding ceremony "rehearsal?"  It's when you get everyone together that is involved in the wedding for a walk-through of the ceremony. This should include all the Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Flower Girls, Ring Bearers, and of course the Bride and Groom!  It is optional to have the readers, musicians and/or soloists, parents and grandparents there.

 It is a "walk-through" of what will happen during the ceremony. It is not like a play where everyone has to practice all their singing, dancing and acting together. If you have readers or musicians, they do not need to take up everyone's time by practicing at the rehearsal.  And, you certainly don't want me reading over the  entire ceremony! It's better to keep that a "secret" from others so that it will be a pleasant surprise to everyone at the wedding.

Is a wedding ceremony "rehearsal" necessary?  If you have a large bridal party of many Bridesmaids & Groomsmen, etc., officiants expect you to have a rehearsal sometime before the wedding whether he/she is there or not. Most rehearsals take about 45 minutes to an hour.  Oftentimes, with smaller weddings you can do the wedding rehearsal yourself.  You just need to know is when everyone is to walk in, where to stand (or sit), and when to walk out. In summary, a wedding rehearsal is never a true rehearsal -- it's just a "walk-through." Its purpose is to show people where they fit in so they will hopefully feel a little less stress about their roles in the actual ceremony.

Please keep in mind that planning a rehearsal for a Friday evening or sometime Saturday may not be a good idea. That's because probably 99% of all weddings take place from Friday afternoon through Sunday evening. Your ceremony location and/or wedding officiant may have more than one event planned for the weekend you are getting married. It may not be possible to have your rehearsal and wedding ceremony during that "prime time." Instead, I recommend having your rehearsal sometime Wednesday or Thursday evening or Friday during the day. That way you can be reasonably sure that you will have both the ceremony location and your wedding officiant available for your rehearsal. Also, many couples make the mistake of checking everyone else's schedule to set the rehearsal, and then assume their wedding officiant will make it. Instead, you should check with the officiant first to find out when they are available, and then with everyone else. If you set the rehearsal without first checking with your officiant, and then find out your officiant has another commitment (such as a wedding) at the same time, you will be doing your rehearsal without them. If you have a wedding planner or consultant they may be able to walk you through the steps.

  When I am the director for rehearsal I always try and instruct the couple to get the best wedding photos.  I know that your wedding photography is a big investment and I want you to have great ones...especially of your ceremony.

Brenda M. Owen - Wedding Officiant & Minister  - http://WeddingWoman.net

How many people should be in the wedding party?

 How many in your wedding party?   One of the first things to consider when selecting your bridal party is how many guests you're planning to invite.   While bridal parties can range anywhere from a single maid/matron of honor to more than a dozen attendants, most wedding experts agree that a good "rule of thumb" is to have one groomsman and one corresponding bridesmaid for every 30 to 50 guests. (This doesn't mean, though, that you have to go ask a stranger to be in your wedding just because your fiance' has one more attendant than you do. Life will go on if you have uneven numbers of groomsmen and  bridesmaids!)  
  A large wedding party traditionally signifies a formal wedding. So if you're planning a small, intimate gathering, ten bridesmaids might be a bit too much. 
    For example, size and formality of your wedding determines the number of attendants you have... a formal wedding of 200-plus guests may have up to 12 attendants, plus a flower girl and ring bearer, and one usher for every 50 guests.
   A semi-formal wedding may have one to six attendants, with the option of a ring bearer and flower girl. An informal wedding will often have just a best man, maid or matron of honor.  They may also have one or two groomsmen and bridesmaids, and no flower girls or ring bearer.  But, traditions are meant to be broken! You can have as many attendants as you like. The important thing is to have the people closest to you in your wedding party, whether that means 5 or 15! 

Brenda M. Owen - Wedding Officiant,  Minister - http://WeddingWoman.net 

 

Selecting The Right Marriage Officiant For Your Wedding Ceremony

~ Selecting the person that will solemnize your marriage ~

After years in the wedding industry as an ordained minister and wedding officiant, one of the things that still amazes me is that so many brides and grooms spend countless hours planning every conceivable detail of their wedding, only to get to the very end of the process and realize almost as an afterthought, that they still haven’t found that special someone to actually perform or officiate the wedding ceremony itself!

Brides understandably spend a great deal of time and money on some or all of the following hoping to find just the right:


- Venue or Location for that idyllic setting for their wedding ceremony and reception
- Event planner to ensure everything runs smoothly and on time.
- Photographer/Videographer who’ll capture memorable pictures of all the family, friends & guests

- Florist who can provide beautiful bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres

- Limo or horse and buggy for that picturesque pre-ceremony arrival or post-wedding send-off

- Formal wear for that designer dress and fashionable gowns/tuxes for the bridesmaids and groomsmen
- Jeweler who can provide an elegant engagement ring and stylish wedding bands
- Singers and Musicians who can provide tasteful accompaniment during the ceremony

- DJ who can spin just the right tunes at the right times during the reception and party

- Rental company that can provide the right setups—including arbor and those white folding chairs

- Caterer who can provide the most delicious hors d’oeuvres, entrees, beverages and cakes
- Printer who can provide classic invitations, programs and thank-you notes
- Salon and Spa that can provide the hairstyle, manicure and pedicure to make you look your best
- Travel agency to help you book the perfect getaway for the most romantic honeymoon...  And on and on it goes.

While securing the right vendor for each of these tasks is certainly worthy of your attention, there are some who would rightly argue that all this attention focused on everything but the ceremony itself is almost like "majoring in the minor."

The truth is: the one main thing that you, as a couple, your wedding party, your parents and all your extended family, friends, and guests will remember MOST about your entire wedding day, is THE CEREMONY ITSELF!

But far too often, securing the right officiant to perform the right ceremony is left as an afterthought.  Unfortunately, far too many brides have found themselves standing at the altar, watching in disgust or in humiliation as an inexperienced, unprepared, notary-type clerk stands there in front of you, with a book in hand, more nervous than you are, reading word-for-word a few trite sentences. And, boom, after a few short minutes, your "Vegas-courthouse quickie" ceremony is over and the deed is done.

And there you are, dreading that you have to turn around, face the audience, and see the mortified look on the faces of your family and friends as you walk down the aisle after an extremely brief, abrupt ceremony that left everyone wishing for quite a bit more.


Honestly, what bride, especially one who has paid such close attention to so many other important details, would ever want to take a chance on what will be said at her wedding?  Clearly, the words that are spoken at your ceremony and the way they are delivered are extremely critical in determining how your overall wedding is perceived by the people you care about most. It cannot be overstated how important it is that you find the right officiant with the right experience who can perform the ceremony in just the right way.

Did you know that even the simplest of ceremonies contains over a dozen different critical components? For example, depending upon whether your ceremony will be conducted inside or outside, even a basic ceremony should include some or all of the following:


Processional
Family Blessing AKA "Giving Away the Bride"
Introductory Welcoming Remarks
Exchange of Vows
Exchange of Rings
Scripture or Special Readings from Family &/or Friends
Optional ceremony/tradition/custom
Final Blessings
Closing Remarks
Pronouncement as Husband and Wife
Invitation to Kiss the Bride
Congratulatory Remarks
Presentation of Bride and Groom to Audience
Recessional
Photo Instructions
Reception Announcement
Adjournment
 And what bride would want someone to officiate her ceremony that seems nervous, unprepared, or unable to project as a confident public speaker?


Some things to consider:

- How many years of experience does the officiant have in performing wedding ceremonies?
- Are they a public speaker or will he/she be more nervous than you are?
- Experience - How many ceremonies have they performed — a few, a dozen, a hundred - several hundred?
- Does they possess a nice smile and a warm disposition so that the audience feels welcomed and invited to be a part of the ceremony?
- Do they make good eye contact with the couple, the audience or do they  have to stare down at their book to read everything word-for-word?
- Do they offer a consultation up front so that you feel confident that they know you and how your ceremony will flow and unfold on your wedding day?
- Is the ceremony they write just the 'same ol' same ol' or is it romantic, meaningful and memorable...based on what YOU want?
- Do they provide you with a copy of your ceremony prior to your wedding day so that you do not have any 'unwanted surprises'?
- Do they they dress in a conservative, contemporary manner or will they show up in a bright, floral dress or in a sport coat with unshined shoes and a loud tie?
- Will they just be on time or will he arrive early to set your mind at ease?
- Do they have adequate voice projection so that they can be heard in the back rows of the audience without amplification?
- Do they really care about you as a couple?
- Do they truly enjoy officiating weddings or are you 'just a number'?


These are just some of the many things you should consider when conducting your search for the right wedding officiant.


I am confident that you will find all this and more in my service to you. The hundreds of couples who have gone before you confess that I have exceeded their expectations in every area of ceremony preparation and presentation.  See my website,  the Testimonials page for sample of some of their comments.  http://WeddingWoman.net

"The ceremony IS your wedding! -  The most important part of your day.
Let me help you make it Romantic, Meaningful and Memorable!"

Wedding Venues I Recommend! ~ http://WeddingWoman.net

Following is a list of wedding venues that I recommend. 

I have officiated weddings at these places and recommend them for different reasons. Some of those are: They are very beautiful, some are all inclusive (e.g. all you need to provide are your flowers, officiant, photographer), different styles e.g. Southern Mansion vs. Contemporary/Industrual look, inexpensive or no charge and, just a nice place to get married!  I have photographs  of most, let me know if you want me to send the pics or have questions. I serve 3 states; I am listing all.  I try to keep the list updated, please let me know if any information changes (event manager, email address etc).
Please tell any that you contact that you found them here/ I referred you.  Thank you, Brenda~ http://WeddingWoman.net

- South Carolina -

Twigs Tempietto Garden - Greenville - http://Twigs.net 

A lovely place for an intimate garden wedding. They cater and always do a great job. Tables, chairs, linens & more included in package pricing. From their website, click on Wedding Events.  Ask for Kris - event manager Email: SpecialEvents@Twigs.net

Augusta Manor - Sharon Wells, owner - http://AugustaManor.org - A Beautiful old Southern Mansion in downtown Greenville, SC - 864-271-1003 ask for Sharon or Charlene (event manager).

Chattooga Belle Farm - http://Chattoogabellefarm.com/ - Wonderful mountain vistas here!  Ed and Kitty Land, owners - Damascus Church Rd, Long Creek,SC 864-647-9768

Events at Sapphire Creek - Simpsonville, SC  - Event space, tables, chairs, linens & more included in package pricing. http://eventsatsapphirecreek.net - Karen Harnesberger - 864-238-9392 - sapphire.creek@yahoo.com

Table Rock Mountain Lodge - 2 floors, patio and a covered porch.  http://southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/state-park.aspx?ParkID=350 - (Pickens, SC) - Cindy Morris 864 878-9813 - email: tablerock@scprt.com


The Red Horse Inn - Landrum - Beautiful mountain views from the West Arbor or the beautiful stone veranda! Mary and Rogers Wolters. http://theredhorseinn.com/ - 864 895-4968 - Email: theredhorseinn@aol.com


Calyx Farms - Walhalla, SC  - http://CalyxFarms.com - Janet Neville, owner - 864-903-2840 - Janet@calyxfarms.com 

Larkin's on the River - Greenville - Lots of weddings held here! On the Reedy River downtown Greenville: http://LarkinsonTheRiver.com/ - Ofc 864 467-3020 


Symmes Chapel - "Pretty Place" -"Breathtaking" chapel on top of Standing Stone Mountain - Marietta, SC (Greenville county) - Contact: Diane Jacques,Chapel Coordinator. 864-836-3291 X-100 email: djacques@ymcagreenville.org - website: http://campgreenville.org/chapel


The Cliffs at Glassy Chapel - Awesome! Chapel on a mountain top - 98 Cliffs Parkway Landrum, SC 29356 - http://cliffscommunities.com/real-estate/cliffs/page/235/section/71/parent/232 -  photos here: http://www.weddingmapper.com/plan/vendor/sc/landrum/ceremony_venues/cliffs_at_glassy_chapel/119102 - Email: Meagan Brackett for info: - mbrackett@cliffscommunities.com


Mary's Restaurant at Falls Cottage - Falls Park -Greenville, SC - Lovely overlooking Falls Park. http://fallscottage.com/ Ask for Candy Inman -Event Coordinator -Candy@FallsCottage.com - Phone: 864 298-0005 or mobile: 864 207-0512


The Reserve on Lake Keowee - Beautiful! http://ReserveatLakeKeowee.com - Maria Stewart - Service Director - Maria@ReserveKeowee.com


Mariott Hotel - One Parkway East - Greenville - http://Marriott.com/gspap - Joelle Vance - Event Mgr - 864 297-0300 or 864 679-1106 Joelle.Vance@marriott.com


Embassy Suites Hotel - Greenville -670 Verdae Boulevard - See the large covered venue on the terrace on the photo - http://embassysuites1.hilton.com/en_US/es/hotel/GSPESES-Embassy-Suites-Greenville-Golf-Resort-Conference-Center-South-Carolina/index.do -  Ask for Stacey or Rob - 864-676-9090

ZEN - http://zengreenville.com/ - A contemporary venue - Rhonda Morris - 924 S Main Street Greenville, SC 29601 (864) 235-5770 - email: info@zengreenville.com

Song Hill Reserve - Landrum - http://www.SongHillReserve.com   Ask for Larsen Dunn - 864-457-4947

River Street Baptist Church Sanctuary located in Anderson, SC - The Sanctuary rents for $350. The Social/Fellowship house (next door) is $250 for all day and DOES include a rehearsal night before. You can have rehearsal and decorate the day before your wedding! This historic home is large enough for your ceremony and reception if you choose not to rent Sanctuary.  Contact me for details. 

The Luv Shack Barn on the Enoree River - Fountain Inn, SC - http://luvshackontheriver.com - Juanita Sanchez - owner - 864-616-3315


All Occasion Celebrations - Mauldin, SC - A new contemporary venue http://alloccasioncelebrations.com/ -  Krystal Donald and Eric Kruse, Owners - 108 N. Main St. Mauldin, SC 2966(864)284-6686

Victoria Valley Vineyards - http://victoriavalleyvineyards.com/ 2 miles from Tablerock Lodge (below)with wonderful mountain vistas. - Karen Law - Event Coordinator 864-414-6509 & 864-859-2780 KarenLaw@Charter.net


Gassaway Mansion - http://gassawaymansion.com/ - 106 Dupont Dr Greenville, SC 29607 - (864) 271-0188 Mark and Colleen Wheeler


Kilgore - Lewis House - http://kilgore-lewis.org/ - This is a beautiful southern mansion and home to the Council of Garden Clubs so beautiful flowers & plants all year with a pretty pond in back.560 North Academy Street, Greenville, SC  Contact Judy: (864) 232-3020 ‎ Email: judy@kilgore-lewis.org


Upstate History Museum - Greenville - http://upcountryhistory.org/rental.php - Kathy Barefoot, Rental Manager, at 864-467-3100 x128 or kathy@upcountryhistory.org.


The Lazy Goat Restaurant - Greenville - have the wedding outside on the patio by the Reedy river/fountain (they will set it up for you) and the reception inside the restaurant.  They also have a wonderful banquet room perfect for smaller weddings it overlooks the Reedy River & Wyche Pavilion -  http://TheLazyGoat.com/



Garden House B/B in Simpsonville, SC - http://GardenHouseBB.com/ - Roy and Frances Shelton, owners (they have a beautiful garden in back- perfect for your ceremony.)


TimbeRock  at the Historical Hopkins Farm - Simpsonville, SC - A Beautiful, 175 year old 'working farm' was called a "horticultural jewel" by South Carolina's ETV and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  http://timberockathopkinsfarm.com/ - Carol Hopkins (864) 243-4010 or 907-0529


Willow Creek Conservatory - Landrum - 864-498-2136 -         http://WillowCreekConservatory.com/ - sales@willowcreekconservatory.com


Sawmill at North Main - Greenville -(A Larkin's Venue)  http://www.thesawmillatnorthmain.com/
22 Graves Drive, Greenville SC  ask for Tammy


The Loom - http://theloomatcottonmillplace.com/ - Contemporary - Located in Cotton Mill Place - 300 South Street Simpsonville, SC 29681 Contact: Brandi Ward 864 449-1943 or Allison Bagwell - 864-449-8051 email: theloomatcmp@aol.com


Abstract Gallery in Fountain Inn,SC - Beautiful southern mansion. http://aabstractsgallery.com/


The Venue / The Renfrew - Traveler's Rest - http://www.2venues.com also: http://thevenue1.com/home.html - Joan Buchanan - 864-303-5184


Lake Lanier Tea House - Landrum, SC - http://LakeLanierTeaHouse.com
(864) 457-5423 - On a lake in the mountains - wonderful food and vistas!


Greenbrier Farms - http://GreenbrierFarms.com - just 15 minutes from Greenville in Easley - Amy Bishop - Amy@Greenbrierfarms.com 864-855-9782


Historic Ballenger House (Seneca Women's Club) Seneca SC. http://historicballengerhouse.com/ 212 East South Third St Seneca, SC


Rooftop Deck at Lilia Spa - Anderson, SC - A historic circa 1880 building with old world charm / new world feel. The view from the roof top deck is beautiful; overlooking downtown Anderson, enjoy the beautiful Urban skyline and sunsets!  Also a 2 Bedroom Loft Apartment  http://www.liliadayspa.com 864-226-0818 


Marshall Orr House Historic Home - Anderson, SC - Historic Southern Mansion - Very reasonably priced!!  You rent the entire mansion and grounds - It has a kitchen and plenty of on-site parking.  Ask for Elizabeth Simmons - http://marshallorrhouse.com/


Friends at the Cove - on Lake Hartwell - Anderson Restaurant with banquet facility http://friendsfoodwithaflair.com/ Click on the Catering link..."our place". Ask for Valerie or Katie. You can have the wedding on the deck overlooking the lake, reception inside.  Very reasonable, only $100 to rent the private banquet room (for 30 or more). They cater and the food is great.


Hilton Garden Inn - 115 Destination Blvd - Anderson, SC - Michelle Traynum - 864 328-0198 http://hiltongardeninn.com/en/gi/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=ANDGIGI

The Bleckley Inn  151 East Church St Anderson, SC  A beautiful, historic, rustic spacious venue - downtown Anderson   www.BleckleyInn.com  -  Shelby Clardy- manager- 864 225-7203 


The Loft Apartment above Soby's on the Side Restaurant - Greenville - Have the wedding on the rooftop deck, reception in large dining room, kitchen, bar area with a personal chef! 
http://www.greenvillecvb.com/meetingPlanner/member_detail.aspx?cli_number=15080


River Lodge and Old Mill Garden at Falls park on the Reedy River: http://greenvillesc.gov/ParksRec/CityParks.aspx- map - "Old Mill Ruins" located bottom right corner: http://www.fallspark.com/park_map.pdf


Rock Quarry Garden - 200 McDaniel St. Greenville : http://greenvilledailyphoto.com/index.php/category/places/rock-quarry/ -  Photos/fees here:  http://www.fallspark.com/GettingMarried.aspx - 
http://greenvillesc.gov/ParksRec/ShelterGuide/FallsOldMillGarden.htm


Legacy Park - Greenville: http://city-data.com/forum/greenville-spartanburg-area/180832-news-verdae-development-2..html


Byrum Place @ Anderson Country Club - 1800's Southern Mansion - reasonably priced (on a golf course - they cater) http://oldbyrumplace.com - Call Stephanie 864-376-4373 email - stephanie@oldbyrumplace.com


Occasions at Wedgefield - Central, SC - Cynthia Phillips owner - all you need to add is Me (officiant), Photographer, flowers & cake...they do the rest!  http://OccasionsAtWedgefield.com/ - email: info@occasionsatwedgefield.com


The Pond House - http://pondhousestarrsc.com/ - "gorgeous!" - Starr, SC - Owner - Jimmy Drake 864-352-3774 - more photos here: http://upstateweddingmall.com/pondhouse.htm - click on the 'photos' button - click on photo to enlarge. There is a farm house for bride to dress and an old school house on the property for the reception.


Lindsey Plantation - Taylors, SC - http://lindseyplantation.net/ - they have a 'stable' for your reception. Estela Lindsey, owner - 864-304-8664 - email: LindseyPlantation@gmail.com


Red Shutter B/B in Starr, SC - http://theredshutterbandb.com/ Michael Crump & David Sanders - Phone: (864) 352-6771 email: theredshutterbandb@yahoo.com They cater.


The Gray House -Starr, SC - http://www.TheGrayHouseSC.com
111 Stone's Throw Ave - Starr,SC (864) 352-6778 they cater.  Ask for Kathy - owner.


Sleepy Hollow B/B in Pendleton, SC - http://sleepyhollow.ws/ - (864) 207-1540


The Davenport Event Venue - http://EventsattheDavenport.com/ - Greer, SC - Ask for Tucker. 


The Depot - Walhalla, SC - http://walhallachamber.com/page.php?7 


The Old Depot - Belton - http://beltonsc.com/bamadepotrdcerem.htm - 100 North Main Street Belton, SC 29627 Phone: 338-7400


Biggerstaff Center on Lake Keowee - http://sclrc.com/biggerstaff.html- Seneca, SC also: http://www.stjohnswalhalla.org/BRIEFHISTORY.html scroll down to the bottom of the page - click on biggerstaff Retreat center- Contact: Ray Burroughs - 864-882-3337 biggerstaffctr@bellsouth.net - There is a pavilion for reception but no alcohol allowed on premise.  It you want to serve alcohol,  you can have reception at The Depot in Walhalla (above) not far away.


Maloney Family Lake House on Lake Keowee (for rent) - http://vrbo.com/127917 -
9 Bedrooms + Convertible bed(s), 6.5 Baths (Sleeps 26-32) - Have the ceremony on the deck or in the backyard by the lake with a dock and Gazebo!


Walnut Lane Inn (Historic Home - Lyman, SC) http://walnutlaneinn.com/ - 864 949-7230 - They cater (good food!). Owners- Hoyt or David


Woodburn Historic Home - Pendlelton- http://pendletonhistoricfoundatio.org/ - Jacqueline Reynolds, President Cell # 864 650-0003 email: historicfnd@earthlink.net - you will need a caterer and may want to to set up a tent ouside.


McFalls Landing on Broadway Lake  in Anderson County - VERY inexpensive with wonderful lake vistas!  Nice community center only $190. for eight hour rental - tables, chairs available. Call 864-231-7275 - email: snicometo@Andersoncountysc.org -  Photos here: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.238239882862078.65201.120405847978816&l=df974c9041&type=1 


Chau Ram Park - Westminster, SC Telephone: 864.647.9286 http://oconeesc.com/parks/index.html


Pendleton Village Green (park) - Pendleton, SC - http://discoversouthcarolina.com/products/2699.aspx


Legacy Park - Greenville - http://city-data.com/forum/greenville-spartanburg-area/180832-news-verdae-development-2.html


Cannon Chapel Amphitheater / Pavilion and Kresge Hall- Clemson (On Lake Hartwell): Call Janay at 646-7502 http://clemson.edu/centers-institutes/outdoor-lab/center/weddings.html


Botanical Gardens at Clemson:
http://clemson.edu/public/scbg/events/rentals/venues.html
http://clemson.edu/public/scbg/
http://discoversouthcarolina.com/products/2703.aspx


Madren Center at Clemson Owen Pavillion (on Lake Hartwell) http://clemson.edu/centers-institutes/madren/-

http://clemson.edu/centers-institutes/madren/conference/weddings/


Galley Restaurant and Banquet Facility on Lake Hartwell - Anderson - On Lake Hartwell -great lake vistas! http://PortmanMarina.com/ - click on The Galley Restaurant - They cater and have a Gazebo by the lake - upstairs banquet facility above the restaurant - ask for Dawn Falkowski - event manager 864 287-3215 -


Recreation areas on Lake Hartwell - most have covered pavillions that you can rent for the day for about $40. There are picnic tables, BBQ grills, bath houses, beaches for swimming, playgrounds with sand for children. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on 'recreation areas' - Some are in GA, some in SC so be sure you stay in SC if you have a SC license. http://lake-hartwell.com/ - no alcohol!


The Duncan Estate - http://duncanestate.com/ - 840 Union Street - Spartanburg, SC 29302 (864) 529-7287


Indigo Hall Event Venue - New, Beautiful, spacious contemporary venue. 90 Ezell St, Spartenburg, SC Call 864.253.8895 - www.IndigoHallEvents.com


Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve - Spartanburg, SC http://hatchergarden.org/ - 820 John B White Sr Blvd -(864) 574-7724

-Georgia-

Cateechee Golf Club - Hartwell GA - http://www.cateechee.com - click on Meetings and Events- Ask for Mimsy Barfoot - 706 856-2314 - Please tell her I referred you!


Kingwood Resort and Golf Club - N.Ga Mountains - Clayton, GA - http://kingwoodresort.com/ - Golf Club resort with restaurant & wedding gardens & reception areas - they cater. Ask for Sylvia Hicks - Wedding Co-Ordinator - (706) 212-4143


Splendor Mountain - http://splendormountain.com/ 195 New Gate Dr - Tigar GA - near Clayton, GA - (404) 218-7638


Trimbley Bald Resort Wedding Chapel - Toccoa, GA http://tremblybald.com/restaurant.htm (wedding chapel is at the bottom of the page) - Amanda - 706 886-9069 - TremblyChapel@Windstream.net


Walter McNeely Lakeside Pavilion - On Lake Russell - 2650 Russell State Park Rd, Elberton GA 30635 - http://gastateparks.org/info/richbruss/ Click on the "Group Shelter". Large cabin with BBQ pit, patio, full kitchen, restrooms, folding tables and chairs, fans and large grassy playing area. Located near waters edge, wonderful lake vistas! 706 213-2045


The Community House - Cornelia, GA - http://corneliageorgia..org/EventFacilities.aspx?CNID=449  - The recently renovated building has 2500 sq ft on each level and features a commerical kitchen and an elevator. The grounds are nicely landscaped and a large rock fountain graces the front lawn, making it a popular place for outdoor weddings.. The main hall is 60 X 40 and is spacious enough for indoor weddings, receptions or dancing.


Saghorn Chapel- Nicholson Ga 30565 - Contact: jackholder@aol.com http://tour.getmytour.com/public/vtour/display/655/slideshow

-North Carolina-

High Hampton Inn - Cashiers, NC - Beautiful venue in the mountains on a pond /golf course.  Reminds me of the summer hotel in the movie 'Dirty Dancing'.  http://HighHamptonInn.com -  Caroline Grogan event manager - 828-743-2411


1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa on Lake Lure, NC- beautiful and part of the movie "Dirty Dancing" was filmed here! - Contact Christopher Patrick Bryant -  http://LakeLure.com 

Serenity Chapel at Trillium: Cashiers, NC - http://www.TrilliumNC.com/ - 888 -464-3800 or 828-743-6161  email:  info@trilliumnc.com - a lake & golf community nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina — 

On The Varandah - Highlands, NC Beautiful Restaurant/deck overlooking lake - http://OnTheVerandah.com - 828-526-2338


Sunset Rock - Highlands, NC (call me on this one, no website)


Inn At Half Mile Farm - Highlands, NC http://www.innathalfmilefarm.com/ 828 526-8170


Log Cabin Restaurant - Highlands, NC - http://logcabin-restaurant.com - 828 526-3380
Wolfgang's Restaurant / Wine Bistro - http://www.highlandswedding.net/ 828 526-3380
Rumbling Bald on Lake Lure, NC - http://rumblingbald.com/ 828-694-3000 - info@rumblingbald.com

Thank you for stopping by, good luck and thank you.  Brenda~ http://WeddingWoman.net  ~