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
Congratulationsto the happy couple and welcome to the Fall 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
When it comes to choosing the perfect dress for your perfect day, not every trend promises to make you feel as beautiful as you deserve, especially when it comes to gown shape and silhouette. To make saying “yes” to your dress as easy as saying “yes” to your partner, start by finding a silhouette that makes you feel beautiful in your body, then consider gowns that incorporate some, if not all, of these show-stopping trends any bride can wear with confidence:
Tulle has long been a fabric preferred by wedding dress designers for the romantic, ethereal softness it adds to any dress, but this season designers are embracing tulle in big ways, making entire dresses out of the delicate and frothy fabric and pairing it with intricate beadwork and appliques to make dresses that move and feel like living dreams
Appliques are intriguing motifs that have long since been used to add intricacy and delicacy to even the most simple of gowns. This fall and winter, brides are utilizing the art of applique to transform their gowns into glittering bouquets. Expect to see floral appliques incorporated into veils, skirts, and bodices as beautiful reminders that love is always in bloom, no matter the season.
Body-hugging silhouettes have always been a way for brides to look effortlessly beautiful, but a bodice inspired by the elegant elements of a lady’s boudoir is sure to leave any bride feeling breathtaking. Details, like lace panels over nude fabrics or exposed boning, not only look impressive but offer practical support and shape to any bride. n
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and verdant landscapes of Appalachia lie an array of wedding venues, each boasting a unique blend of rustic charm and timeless allure. These picturesque settings have become the canvas for couples seeking a wedding that echoes simplicity, intimacy, and natural beauty, accented with the warmth of Southern hospitality and a touch of vintage elegance.
QUAINT BARNS become breathtaking spaces adorned with twinkling lights and delicate drapery. Their weathered exteriors tell stories of generations past, making them the ideal backdrop for capturing cherished memories.
RUSTIC WOODEN CHAPELS hidden amidst the trees offer a sense of seclusion, allowing couples to exchange vows surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. These venues effortlessly blend modern amenities with an organic ambiance, ensuring guests experience both comfort and a genuine connection.
PICTURESQUE GARDENS & WINERIES provide the perfect setting for outdoor ceremonies. Enjoy the breezy aisles of a vineyard or the fragrance of wildflowers as the sun casts a warm, golden glow upon the proceedings.
Beyond beauty, wedding venues in Appalachia embrace a sense of community. Local vendors collaborate to craft personalized experiences, from farm-to-table feasts highlighting the region’s culinary delights to handcrafted decor that embodies the spirit of craftsmanship cherished in these mountains. n
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My hope is that, as I document your special moments, you feel as if there is just another friend in the room. No pretense or acting...only real, authentic, shared moments as you move closer to your “happily ever after.”
678-425-7007
info@KristaBallington.com kristaballington.com
Brides aren’t the only ones who get to flaunt flowers in a fabulous way. Instead of pinning your groom and friends with a single blossom or tiny bouquet, consider covering their entire lapel in blooms or creating a floral pocket square for a Vogue-worthy look on this wedding day classic! n
Winter is coming... a chill in the air, crisp leaves, and a beautiful white and blue hue of the landscape. The season is perfect for a luxurious winter wedding full of romance and beauty and warmth in unexpected places.
Velvet isn’t just for jewelry bags anymore - Make a statement with a full bridal party in velvet. Jaw-dropping photography awaits with beautifully paired florals, shimmering jewels, and velvety fabric galore.
Black and white and formal all overRomance doesn’t always have to be red. Black and white help each other pop and makes candlelit receptions, photos, and ceremonies more intimate. It's a classic combination that is always in style.
Bolder is better - Color schemes for weddings don’t have to be dull or neutral. Use the power of winter to create bold colors in your wedding wear and
accessories. Lean into emerald greens, deep reds, and jewel tones to counter the chill of the season.
Baby, it’s cold outside, add some layers - Whether in the form of long-sleeved wedding gowns or faux fur jackets and capes, covering up has never been so luxurious or practical as during winter nuptials. This is not the time for cold shoulders.
Bring the outside in - Nature-inspired weddings are perfect for the crisp days of winter. Utilizing greenery, antlers, wood, and even snow in your wedding decor emphasizes the cool and loving feeling of winter in your “I do’s.”
If you want your wedding to be unforgettable for your guests, consider throwing a themed wedding! Themes have been encouraged by wedding planners for years as a way to help couples narrow down big choices like color palettes, venues, menus, and more. Traditionally, themes are broad concepts like “beachy,” “boho,” “modern,” or “fairytale,” but more couples are choosing less conventional themes to celebrate their love for one another through a shared hobby or interest, like literature, crafting, sports, or fandoms.
While themed weddings are loads of fun, couples can run the risk of hosting a celebration more akin to a
convention than a wedding, so how can couples navigate the balance? Here are some helpful tips:
1. CHOOSE A THEME CONNECTED TO YOUR LOVE STORY- If that particular place, activity, or interest consistently brings you together, strengthens your bond, and is a core part of your memories, it could be the perfect theme!
2. LOVE IN THE DETAILS- a theme doesn’t have to be plastered over every aspect to land, but it also doesn’t have to be limited to only the groom’s cake either. Think about natural ways your theme could weave its way into your celebration. If you’re both
hardcore Lord of The Ring fans, consider using iconic Tolkien script within your program, menus, or invitations. Both diehard sports fans? Let the colors of your favorite team, in muted or deepened tones, serve as the color pallet.
3. CONSIDER A VIBE- Strive to recreate the feeling your shared activity, place, or interest gives you both. Do you both love the serenity of being outdoors or the hush of a rainy evening in reading books? Opt for a venue that puts guests close to nature, or that has dim lighting and soft fabrics to recreate the vibes you love to share.
Wedding hair used to require the skills of a master sculptor. Today, brides agree a more natural look takes the cake. Loose curls go a long way toward elevating everyday cuts and styles, as does adding an unexpected pop of color (something blue?), dawning starry jewels, or accenting with braids. n
Even the smallest and most simple of receptions can leave a lasting impression on your wedding guests. Remembers memories are made through thoughtful details and unique experiences. Here are two ways you can set your wedding reception apart from all the other punch and cake receptions of the past:
1. PROVIDE A UNIQUE GUEST BOOKGuest’s books don’t only have to serve as a way to write thank you cards to your guests post-ceremony, they can also provide laughs and memories for you years to come! Consider having friends leave voice recordings of their well-wishes by utilizing a vintage, landline-style phone through a company that specializes in audio guest books. Notify guests ahead of time to bring their favorite family recipe, or provide recipe cards on guests can leave their best creations on or have friends and family draw doodled self-portraits of themselves on a frameable matte.
2. PROVIDE UNIQUE EXPERIENCES- Give guests something to talk about at the reception and for years after by bringing in unexpected entertainment. Consider hiring a painter to do a live painting of the reception space off to the side of the drink table or bar. Instead of a photo booth, opt for a caricature or silhouette artist to capture the likeness of your guests, or hire an improvisational musician who can create songs on the spot unique to your event.
3. MIX UP THE SCHEDULE- Weddings have a very formulaic and expected series of events that can make every wedding feel the same after you’ve been to a few. Try doing things out of the expected order to keep your event unique and memorable! Who says you can’t eat first, ceremony second, and dance party last? It’s your day, do things in an order that feels right to both of you, not just what’s expected. n
ROMANTIC EXTRAS
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
CLOTHING
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)
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
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.
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
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
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!
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.
