速
WINTER 2012
$5.99
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
Country Club Weddings
“
by Canongate
From the landscape, to the food, to the service – everything was perfect...
”
- Mariel & Daniel Leyton
Whitewater Creek, Fayetteville
S even F abulouS l ocationS Cateechee, Hartwell | 500 Guests This one-of-a-kind golf club is a visual masterpiece blending artistic details with soothing natural elements located in the scenic foothills of Northeast Georgia. Flat Creek, Peachtree City | 250 Guests With floor to ceiling windows and wood-beamed ceilings, your guests will enjoy unobtrusive views of the spectacular golf course in an intimate atmosphere. Flat Creek, Peachtree City
Windermere, Cumming
Hamilton Mill, Dacula | 250 Guests From the rehearsal dinner to a wedding on the alluring verandah, and finally a reception in the Grand Hall Hamilton Mill is a suitable setting for all occasions. Healy Point, Macon | 300 Guests The “lodge-like” clubhouse combines country club elegance with warm richness that is perfect for your special event. Smoke Rise, Smoke Rise | 400 Guests This colonial style two-story 25,000 square foot clubhouse offers breathtaking views from both the grand ballroom and the expansive verandah. Whitewater Creek, Fayetteville | 200 Guests The Antebellum-style clubhouse offers a spiral staircase and crystal chandeliers that are reminiscent of true Southern charm and hospitality. Windermere, Cumming | 250 Guests Featuring picturesque views of the Davis Love designed courses from the elegantly decorated clubhouse, Windermere is the ideal location for wedding receptions and is the perfect location for lakeside ceremonies.
www.canongateoccasions.com Healy Point, Macon
Smoke Rise, Smoke Rise
Cateechee, Hartwell
xxyxx Happily ever after begins at the clubs of Canongate. Each club offers a unique wedding venue style. From the lodge-like feel of Healy Point to the antebellum charm of Whitewater Creek and everything in between, Canongate
truly
offers
the
perfect wedding venue for any Photography by: LAPIDphotography.com
Hamilton Mill, Dacula
event in the Atlanta area. Let us make your special day everything you have dreamed of and more.
xxyxx www . canongateoccaSionS . com
866.824.9215
Flat Creek, Peachtree City
LIGHT LOVE LAUGHTER PHOTOGRAPHY
Chris & Beth Ready CHASTAIN HORSE PARK
6 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
FROM THE
EDITORS
LABOR OF LOVE
Image By Christine Gallagher Photography
If there is one thing we know for sure, it’s that the pursuit of excellence is a labor of love. Emphasis on the labor. As much as we’d like to pretend that these pages effortlessly come together over a few boardroom meetings, spiced lattes and beyond glamorous photo shoots, that couldn’t be further from the truth. The magazine you hold in your hands is the result of countless hours laboring over the questions that we’re continually asking: “Is this helpful to our reader?” “Does this make sense?” and more than anything else: “Is this our BEST?” Then comes the task of making sure the content comes to life as spectacularly as we’ve imagined it. More laboring. Are you seeing a pattern? Ours isn’t a burden to be pitied, though. Because like any great love, its worth far outweighs any trouble that comes along to try and snatch the beauty of it. And oh, this issue is so beautiful. The newly renamed For Every Occasion features more of the tips, trends and around town happenings that we’re currently crazy for. And this time, Inspiration on Location takes you to the Livingston Restaurant where we hosted a lovely, glittering, 25th Anniversary party full of DIY ideas and the most incredible handcrafted corsage (which helped to inspire the whole shoot). When it comes to our Real Event features, the mark of loving dedication vendors painstakingly put into each event is plain to see. And to our advertisers, we’d be remiss to not extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for allowing us to continue doing what we love in creating this magazine.
SAVE
We hope inspiration abounds as you read through this issue, and hope that you find great satisfaction in bringing your dreams to life! The labor is worth it. Of that, we are sure.
T H E D AT E
Heather Vreeland Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Callie Rogers Associate Editor
PARTY MARKET MAY 2012 sneak peek on PAGE 17
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 7
IN THIS ISSUE • WINTER 2012
IN EVERY ISSUE EVERY OCCASION 13 FOR No matter the occasion you have on your
calendar, you’re going to need the same stuff. Here you’ll find party planning pointers for every occasion.
38
STYLE SpARK Our feature section of inspiring images shot on location at Livingston Restaurant at the Georgian Terrace. Loved what you saw on the cover? Then flip to this page first!
57
VENUE GUIDE The most thorough guide to event venues you’ll find in Atlanta! Over 40 venues ranging from hotels, country clubs, mansions and outdoor locations.
113 160
Uncap your gratitude with this bottle opening favor idea...
160
33
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS Our favorite real events hand selected for their style, attention to detail and gorgeous photography.
pARTING FAVORITES Thanks for reading! Here’s a featured favor we think your guests will love!
47
PRIVATE DINING & REHEARSAL DINNER LOCATIONS
SEARCHING FOR A VENUE?
FUNCTION FACILITY
8 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
110
Keep an eye out for these icons that help you easily identify the features and unique traits of each venue - pAGE 57
pALETTE pERSpECTIVES
“In the language of flowers, a bouquet of ranunculus means ‘I’m dazzled by your charms’.......” - pAGE 42 DON’T MISS THESE DETAILS FROM ACTUAL EVENTS
Three local event designers give us their take on our Style Spark Color Combination
pAGE 50
ARTICLES OF INTEREST WHAT TO WALK ON • 26 The foundation of your event starts with what your guests will walk on. Get the skinny on the flooring lingo you’ll need when working with big deal rental companies...
A wedding full of whimsical details including pinwheels and send off ribbons
113
Get creative with farm animal table names and escort guests with cow bells
138
UNCOMMON CAKE FLAVORS • 28 Get creative and opt for more creative cake flavors. Today’s confectioners take the cake for cake when it comes to mixing flavors and pleasing multiple palettes... MODERN DAY MOVIE MAKERS • 30 Wedding and event videos get a modern day makeover from today’s talented Cinematographers. See what’s changed and why... GREAT MENUS ON A GRAND SCALE • 34 Guest lists in the triple digits can turn into a feeding frenzy. Give your guests something good to chomp on..... pRINT INSpIRATION • 32 Paisley, ikat, damask, chevron, toile oh my! Today’s events are getting their inspiration from the runway to the showroom.....
The campus of Berry College makes for a gorgeous wedding venue
156
Themed caked pops take this confection to a whole other level of cuteness
126
“I’ve thought it myself when planning an event, ‘What kind of cake will everyone like?’ The answer: none....” - pAGE 28
pApER ALTERNATIVES • 36 Today, paper isn’t your only option for stationery. Modern day hostesses are sending their invites on many other materials.....
20
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 9
OCCASIONS
MAGAZINE
HEATHER VREELAND
ANDREW VREELAND
Heather@occasionsonline.com | @HeatherVreeland
Andrew@occasionsonline.com | @AndrewVreeland
Entrepreneurial Extraordinaire, Marketing Maven, Queen. Will work for Starbucks and closet stand-in for Bon Qui Qui (google it). Signature style: jeans and heels. Sucker for pretty packaging and an absolute font freak.
Aviation expert, surfer, and all around risk taker. Believes there’s no detail too small or insignificant to make better. The steak and potatoes kind, and world’s greatest estimator. Saved by grace through faith.
LISA ALEXANDER
CALLIE ROGERS
ASSOCIATE pUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Callie@occasionsonline.com | @EditorCallie
Lisa@occasionsonline.com | @Lisa_Alexander
Both office DJ and walking thesaurus, Callie relies on Jesus, her exquisite interns and a steady supply of caffeine to do great work. Closet Broadway star and the frick to Heather’s frack. Bona-fide Texan.
ALTA Tennis champ, #1 office cheerleader, and believes no drink should ever be served from a mason jar. positive that in life there’s nothing that can’t be fixed with a curling iron and glass of wine.
CHERYL ISAACS
JENNIFER TAYLOR
Cheryl@occasionsonline.com
Jennifer@occasionsonline.com | @OccasionsMagJen
SENIOR ADVERTISING MANAGER
RELATIONSHIp MANAGER
Sales Diva, Mother of three, Cheryl’s never met a stranger. Loves seeking refuge in her N. GA mountain cabin and traveling the world with her husband phil.
EDITORIAL INTERNS Lisa Olson Staley Mcllwain Christine Shieh Ally Lopez
Facebook.com/OccasionsMagazine
Brain bank and purveyor of mindless knowledge, FSU fan, stickler for grammar and self declared food snob. Jen loves blue nail polish and a comfy hoodie. Closet shoe freak.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Leanna Adams Kristin Devoto
CAROLYN OYLER
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Carolyn@occasionsonline.com
Loves co-conspiring with Lisa and playing with her dogs. An avid traveler and sour apple martini connoisseur, Carolyn believes more is more when it comes to accessories and gives the Energizer Bunny a run for its money.
Twitter.com/OccasionsMag
COVER pHOTOGRApHY BY David Christensen Photography
www.OccasionsOnline.com
SUBSCRIBE
ADVERTISE
GET FEATURED
In-the-know readers turn to Occasions Magazine for all things wedding & party planning. So, if you’ve got an upcoming occasion on the calendar, subscribe to Occasions Magazine to get all this goodness, delivered right to your doorstep for just $16.95.
Occasions Magazine offers several print and online advertising opportunities to connect local businesses to our readers. We love playing matchmaker. For information and a media kit visit
We are looking for remarkable weddings, mitzvahs, parties and events to feature. If you have an event that you’d like for us to consider, please review the event submission procedures on
www.OccasionsOnline.com/subscribe
www.OccasionsOnline.com/advertising
www.OccasionsOnline.com/submissions
2030 AvALON PARKWAY, SUITE 405 MCDONOUGH, GA 30253 (888) 262-8881
| INFO@OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
Occasions Magazine is published tri-annually. Copyright 2012. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written consent of Occasions Magazine, Inc. is strictly prohibited. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information in Occasions Magazine, no responsibility can be accepted for the quality of goods and services provided by advertisers or printer’s errors. All advertisements are accepted and published on the representation that advertisers are properly authorized to publish the entire contents and subject matter thereof. All editorial images not specifically credited to a photographer are courtesy of the respective company and used with their permission. Published and printed in the USA.
10 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
All images (except Andrew & Carolyn’s) by Ben Vigil Photographers
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & pUBLISHER
11 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
www.dhcphoto.com 866.977.5556
FOR EVERY OCCASION
FOR EVERY
OCCASION
SNAPSHOTS FROM THIS SECTION
Party prepping just got easier with this new-to-town “blow dry” only hair salon
14
Get creative with farm animal table names and escort guests with cow bells
24
Cover your pool with acrylic flooring to get more square footage for outdoor events
26
Cinematography is the new wedding video. Think high quality, HD memories
30
PARTY PLANNING POINTERS FOR EvERY OCCASION Everyone knows that the secret to a beautiful event is thoughtful and creative details. In For Every Occasion we’re giving you all the scoop: the inspiration, trends and ideas to pull off an amazing event. From color story spreads, to articles chronicling interesting new wedding trends, to reporting the pulse of the Atlanta special events scene in, For Every Occasion is our effort to put nothing short of magic into your hands!
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 13
FOR EVERY OCCASION
DRYBAR OPENS
SHOWN HERE Inside Atlanta’s newest destination for special event prep: Drybar
ADD TO YOUR AGENDA It’s time to break out your new 2012 calendars and pen in some very important dates! In the next few months event planning expos galore are coming to Atlanta, helping you pick everything from photographer to baker to venue and so much more. Take advantage of the opportunity to meet potential vendors face to face, ask them questions and find the perfect match! Trust us, whether you’ve just started planning, or your looking for last minute help, the following shows are just what you need:
GEORGIA BRIDAL SHOW
jANUARY 22ND AT COBB GALLERIA WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IT: Live entertainment
and a professional fashion show will get you in the wedding planning spirit at this show, not to mention all registered brides are entered to win a free allinclusive honeymoon trip. And a little secret? Many of the vendors offer show specials, so attending is a surefire way to save some time and money!
BRIDAL EXTRAVAGANZA OF ATLANTA jANUARY 29TH AT 200 pEACHTREE WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IT: With celeb style
There is rarely an exception: wedding day hair is always gorgeous. But what about all of the other pre-wedding festivities where you’ll surely be needing to sport a fabulous mane? (read: engagement pictures, engagement parties, bridesmaids luncheon, rehearsal dinner...) Fear not, your lackluster hair woes are over. Opening a brand new location in the heart of Buckhead, DRYBAR is here to rescue us all from droopy layers and aching arms. Offering five amazing blow out options (with names like The Mai Tai and Southern Comfort) for a flat fee of $35, you can go by yourself or take your bridesmaids with you -- just get there. And while your stylist makes certain that your groom is smitten with your new ‘do, relax in the chic salon outfitted with iPhone docking stations, energy boosting gourmet snacks, and flat screens with everyone’s favorite chick flicks on rotation. Oh yes, martial bliss indeed. DryBar appointments can be booked online at www.thedrybar.com or by calling 404-382-5310.
swag bags for those who register as VIP’s, five -yep, that’s right -- FIVE designer gown giveaways, and over the top table designs inspired by color trends straight from the runway, this show has bridal. style. written all over it.
BAR & BAT MITZVAH EXpO
FEBRUARY 12 AT ALpHARETTA MARRIOTT WHY YOU SHOULDN’T MISS IT: Sometimes it’s
hard to bridge the style gap between tween guest-of-honor and (you) the parents footing that mitzvah bill. Get everyone on the same page at this interactive mitzvah show. Proven to be an invaluable resource for planners, find vendors and get ideas at this show that will make everyone happy.
14 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
SHOWN HERE Savvi Formalwear display at the Bridal Extravaganza of Atlanta. Image by NJM Photography
Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who is the boldest one of all?
Your party is a direct reflection on you. That’s why when you choose Bold American Events, you’ll feel like a princess with our modern menus, award-winning design and limitless choice of venues. Contact us today and let’s create a magical occasion you and your guests will remember ever after.
404.815.1178 | boldamerican.com | boldamericandesign.com | @BoldEventsATL | facebook.com/boldamerican | boldamericanevents.wordpress.com
15 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
FOR EVERY OCCASION
VINTAGE RENTALS Let’s face it. Traipsing all over Atlanta for the perfect vintage accessories for your next event -- i.e. church pews, furniture, milk bottles, an old typewriter -- sounds dreamy and so Anthropologie of you...in theory. In reality though, it’s precious time you could be spending paying attention to the millions of other details going into your big day. So what’s a girl (or guy) to do? Enter Mao Thao of FOUR INCH NCH FOLD, an affordable vintage rental resource to brides, stylists, photographers, hostesses and anyone else hoping to make a big splash at their next party. On a local, national, or worldwide level, Four Inch Fold has a rich history in furniture & design that appeals to a wide variety of styles. Translation? Whether your look is rustic country or art-deco glam, they’ll hunt down just what your heart desires (free of charge), or have it custom built! Sourced, sealed and delivered to your party (they’ll even help design your event). Now that’s a find. Visit Four Inch Fold: Ambient + Studio at 585 Wells St., Atlanta, GA 30312
SHOWN HERE Just a hint of the vintage furniture inventory Four Inch Fold has in stock.
DESSERT DELIVERY Move over Pizza Hut, there’s a new delivery service in town. And it’s sweeter! SIFT! DESSERT BOUTIQUE is the dessert delivery service dishing up sinful sweets like chocolate caramel
pecan cheesecake, gingerbread brownies, banana rum pie, orange cinnamon creme macaroons and oh, oh so much more, friends. Hosting a last minute dinner party? Has the number of your party guests grown? Need a dessert table or heck, do you and your bridesmaids just need a few slices of pie to calm those day-of-nerves? Consider Sift! and owner Tristen Patriz your knight in whipped meringue armour. Give the team 24-48 hours notice and consider your sweet tooth satisfied! Can’t find what you’re looking for on the menu? Sift! is happy to accommodate one of a kind treats. Visit www.siftatlanta.com and get to ordering!
NEW BRIDAL GOWN SALON Wouldn’t it be fun if, when shopping for your wedding gown, you and your entourage had the whole boutique to yourself for hours? If the person pulling your gown choices was a stylist? And if said stylist actually took time to get acquainted with what you really wanted in a gown? While were at it, let’s imagine that this salon has one of a kind dress designers, too! And this doting and oh-so-talented staff served you cookies!? Brace yourselves brides, this is not a test. With the grand opening of THE WEDDING EDDING GOWN SALON in Midtown, Randi Lawrence Moore and her team of bridal consultants are redefining how you find the dress of your dreams. Unparalleled in their individualized attention to each bride, The Wedding Gown Salon is your new go-to for the closed door, personal shopping experience formerly only available to royalty and celebs. Upon entering your private appointment, a personal stylist will meet with you to discuss what exactly you’re looking for. While she hand picks choices for you -- though you’re free to try on every dress in the store -- enjoy a few sweet treats with your entourage on the house. Once you’ve found the one, have a keepsake picture taken with your family and friends while Randi’s team takes care of the purchasing details. Then it’s so long until your first fitting! Luckily, you’ve got your complimentary bridal swag bag to keep you busy. To find out more about The Wedding Gown Salon or to make your VIP appointment, visit www.theweddinggownsalon.com
16 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
SHOWN HERE Lace bodice ball gown by Adele Fabiano available at The Wedding Gown Salon
FOR EVERY OCCASION
DO YOUR GUESTS A FAVOR What we’re about to say may scare you, but don’t be afraid: vegetable cookies. We’ll confess, we were a tiny bit skeptical when these bite sized pretties with flavors like almond beet and vanilla parsnip came across our desk, but boy oh boy do we stand corrected! COOkIES UNDERGROUND NDERGROUND is a grass roots (pun intended) baking company that’s making it fun and delicious to eat your vegetables. Sprouting from the idea that putting vegetables in a cookie seems to make the vegetable more approachable, and one seriously abundant harvest, these cookies are making their foray into farmer’s markets and yep, you guessed it -- special events. Whether one giant cookie cake or a goodie bag full, we can’t wait for you to try these glazed sweet (and healthy!) treats. Your party pants will thank us.
SHOWN HERE Cookies Underground
NEW VENUE
SHOWN HERE LED dance floor by Amusement Masters. Image by David Christensen Photography
JUST DANCE Photobooths, desserts bars and a host of other fun trends have made their respective debuts on the party planning scene. It’s time now though, to usher in the next craze. May we -- and AMUSEMENT MASTERS -- enthusiastically present to you the LED dance floor. Your ears did not deceive you! We are talking one completely shape shifting, brightly lit disco queen’s dream. The LED dance floor offers guests the thrill of an ever changing floor color that can even morph to accompany the beat of the music playing (thanks to a DMX soundboard and on site technician)! A complete HIT at the 80’s themed events that seem to be increasing in frequency, these floors are just as commonly used at wedding receptions, mitzvahs and birthday parties alike! They can accommodate both indoor and outdoor events, and generally range in size from 16 x 16 to 28 x 28, though custom sizing is available. To learn more about this wonder-floor and how you can wow guests at your next event visit www.amusementmasters.com.
18 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
When it comes to choosing where to celebrate in style this winter, you can add a brand spankin’ new venue to your list of options. 56 EAST has put down roots in the Andrews District; a long time dining, entertainment and nightlife hot spot for young and old alike located in the heart of Buckhead at the corner of E. Andrews Drive and Cains Hill Place. The newly constructed 3,800 square foot venue boasts an “unparalleled” event experience with first class amenities and state-of-the-art visual and sound systems. 56 East has two distinct spaces, the pre-function room and the gallery, (think cocktail hour and reception) that can hold up to 350 people, and can be altered to fit the needs of a wedding or corporate event. “Whether you are looking for an intimate reception site or an exclusive venue to view your team’s next sporting event, 56 East provides a space that is as equally tasteful as it is functional” said Stephen de Haan, president of Andrews District. “This event facility provides all of the tools to impress your guests in a chic and modern way without the hassle.” #Winning SHOWN HERE 56 East Grand Opening Party.
3210 Roswell Road Suite F Atlanta, GA 30305 678.528.2987 ChelseaFloralDesigns.com 19 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
FOR EVERY OCCASION
36-
1-
-7 -4
-5 2-
-8
MAGENTA MADNESS We love magenta for its sophisticated vibrance. Making just about everything it touches more lively, like our blackberry gelato or either of the gorgeous cocktail dresses above, magenta made our 2012 colors hot list. Somewhere in between hot pink and cranberry, this color is as fierce as it is playful. (And we imagine, so is the hostess who chooses it!) SHOWN ABOVE 1 - Orchid, Gold, & Grape Brocade Party Dress: THEIA, 2 - Orchid Satin Chiffon T Backed Gown: THEIA, 3 - Garbo Shoes: ANN ROTH, 4 - Invitations: INVITATION CREATIONS, LLC,, 5 - Mixed Flower Bouquet: Catherine Taylor of WOODLAND FIELDS pHOTOGRApHY, 6 - Blackberry Gelato: HONEYSUCkLE GELATO (photo via NJM Photography), 7 - Magenta Agate Slice on Gold Chain Necklace: BELLA BEADS, 8 - Pink “Peppy Toppers” Cupcake Topper: pOTTER + BUTLER
20 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
FOR EVERY OCCASION
2-
5-
1-
-6
3-
4-
7-
CHARCOAL COOL Think of this rich shade of gray as black’s edgier cousin. It adds mystery to neutrals and is just as easily paired with electric blue or coral for something more quirky. A mysterious and unexpected twist to most color palettes, charcoal is quickly becoming the go to hue for instant party chic. SHOWN ABOVE 1 - Charcoal Dress with Bow Detail: AMSALE, 2 - Hand Blown Glass Tumblers: TEROFORMA, 3 - Drink flags: DILL pICkLE pICNIC, 4 - “Three Bows Are Better Than One” Bow earrings: SORA ORA DESIGNS, 5 - Platinum Circles Charcoal Table Linen : I DO LINENS, 6 - “victoria” Invitations: TICkLED INk, 7 Drink Flags: DILL pICkLE pICNIC
22 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
23 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
FOR EVERY OCCASION
62-
57-
1-
3-
3.
4-
4. 8-
TEAL ME ABOUT IT Per recent travels to the Caribbean, we were inspired by the Caribbean sea and its absolutely sublime teal color. A rich, decorative jewel tone that’s undergone a sparkling transformation since the 1980’s, this new shade is bold and interesting. Having gone relatively unused in event design until now, we’re hoping that this is the year for teal! SHOWN ABOVE 1 - Strapless Teal Organza Dress: THEIA,, 2 - Just Married Photo Booth Sign: CRAFTY EARTH, 3 - Sea Sponge Turquoise Charger: BBJ LINENS, 4 - Sweet Confections Tags (Teal): AMARETTO,, 5 - Cake: SUGAR kNEADS CAkERY, 6 - Camille Ring Pillow: MAIHAR DESIGN, 7 - “Antique Lace” Invitation: TICkLED INk,, 8 - Will you be my bridesmaid? Letterpressed Card : DRIppY INk
24 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
25 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
FOR EVERY OCCASION
WHAT TO WALK ON by Kristin Devoto
Outdoor events are a fabulous way to take advantage of Atlanta’s temperate Spring and Fall. While nature provides the beautiful weather, keeping guests comfortable is up to the host. Rental flooring is key to a successful outdoor event, and provides a smooth, sturdy platform for any party. Unless guests are expected to arrive in flip-flops, there’s no reason their heels should sink into grass or spend the event balanced on their toes.
Dan Nolan of TENTS UNLIMITED, explains “the goal is usually to make the floor and ceiling of an outdoor event disappear, which only happens when guests are comfortable.” In some cases, though, the flooring can become a stunning focal point of the event. When it comes to communicating with special event industry professionals, it’s nice to know what your looking for and how to ask for it. Check out our handy translations for rental flooring below...
OUTDOOR CEREMONY ASK FOR: LAYDOWN WOOD
Don’t leave guests craning their necks to see you say I do. Laydown wood flooring is raised slightly off the ground and assembled with a classic stained wood. (Runners available, too!)
WHY IT WORKS:
COCKTAILS ON THE LAWN ASK FOR: SEMI-LEVELED
All of those cocktails call for sturdy ground to walk on. Semi-leveled flooring offers comfort guests are looking for, using board planks and minor shimming.
WHY IT WORKS:
pOOLSIDE RECEpTION ASK FOR: ACRYLIC
WHY IT WORKS: Popularity for acrylic flooring has recently surged. Lay this modern option over your pool for a dramatic dance floor.
BACKYARD BBQ
ASK FOR: GROUND COVER
SHOWN ABOVE Large: A Big To Do Event orchestrated a beautiful wedding at a private residence complete with custom pool covering by Holt & Holt. Image by David Murray Weddings. Small: Tent and Flooring set up by Tents Unlimited
26 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
WHY IT WORKS: A quick and relatively inexpensive way to protect your lawn from too much foot -- or high heeled --traffic! A simple layer of plastic covered by carpet, laid directly on the ground.
Keep in mind rental flooring isn’t one size fits all. Talk with a professional in depth about your event to ensure that you’re getting the option that’s right for you. Says Dan of the flooring opportunities at Tents Unlimited: “We can cover floors with everything from indoor/outdoor green turf to $25/sq. ft. hardwood flooring, If it’s made to cover a floor, we can put it down. Linoleum, tile, plywood, stain, paint, the [options] are endless.” Utilizing special event flooring can do more than just provide solid ground for your big day.
FOR EVERY OCCASION
UNCOMMON CAKE FLAVORS by Kristin Devoto
I’ve thought it myself when planning an event, “What kind of cake will everyone like?” The answer: None. Not even good old vanilla or chocolate will satisfy all of your guests. You can’t please everyone, as the song goes, so you might as well please yourself. And if you’re going for self-satisfaction, why not go with delicious?
THINK OUTSIDE THE [CAKE] BOX
These days you can go to bakeries like CRICkETTE’S CAkES and get a more unusual creation like Maple Walnut Cream Cake or Sour Pound Cake. Or, you can go waaay out of the ordinary and order flavors like Red Bull and Vodka or Baked Cinnamon Apple with White Chocolate Dipped Bacon. Sara Williams, owner of Crickette’s Cakes, says, “I always tell my clients, especially with the groom’s cake, if his favorite thing is apples, don’t settle on one thing. Do caramel apple pies and then a carrot and cheddar cupcake with baked cinnamon apples on top. Or do candied apples and sprinkle them with fresh ginger.” Williams suggests that if someone likes chocolate and spicy food, they add habanero to a chocolate cake. Or that they do a blackberry guacamole if guac is a food favorite.
STAY TRUE TO YOURSELF
Tara Tomlinson, owner of SUGAR kNEADS CAkERY, says, “We encourage our clients to choose something that reflects who they are, something that inspires them and that they as an individual or a couple will enjoy. Like a Chocolate Stout Cake or a Long Island Iced Tea Cake. We’ve done one that even looked like a glass of Long Island Iced Tea.” Tomlinson says she gets a lot of unusual requests. She recommends clients come in for a consultation. Before clients arrive, she and her staff will go into the kitchen and play with flavors, liquor and non-alcoholic mixes and prepare a sample that’s a good representation of what a client has requested.
KEEp IT IN THE FAMILY
SHOWN ABOVE Large, right: Chocolate Caramel Cheesecake, Small left: Salted Caramel Mini Cakes. Both confections by Sift! Dessert Boutique
28 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
The benefit of going to a specialty shop is that they like to do new and different things. But remember that if you want to have a cake rooted in family history or a particular culture, you may want to provide a recipe so the bakery will have a point of reference to come up with a taste that is reminiscent of what you expect.
HAVE FUN!
No matter what the confection, Williams says, “It’s got to be pretty. It’s got to be pleasing to the eye with a wow factor and it’s got to taste good in the end or you’ve blown it altogether. But it doesn’t have to be sweet to be fabulous.” Crickette’s Cakes has even done Turkey and Dressing Cupcakes with a ham cream cheese rosette on top! Self-satisfaction never sounded so good.
You dream it. We print it. Brand new location at Brookwood Place.
Visit us at 1745 Peachtree St. NW Atlanta, GA 30309 T: 404.352.7200 Â
w w w. s a m f l a x s o u t h . c o m
FOR EVERY OCCASION
MODERN DAY MOVIE MAKERS
by Kristin Devoto
Videography has come a long way since the burgeoning popularity of wedding videos in the 1980’s. In fact, many videographers now refer to themselves as cinematographers in order to escape that very association. If party planners don’t do their research in this category, they’re sure to miss out on what might have been one of their favorite ways to remember their event.
FROM ROM VIDEOGRApHY V TO CINEMATOGRApHY
So what’s all the fuss about? Is cinematography just a fancy name for a home video? Not according to Ryan Rodinis of RODINIS FILMS. According to Ryan, the difference is -- simply put -- that the end product “is a cinematic experience. A wedding video can be really boring. We create a film that people want to watch again and again.” Dustin Blake of INDY pRODUCTIONS agrees. “If you watch a wedding video and feel like you need to fast forward it,” he said, “that’s probably videography.”
SO, O,, WHAT’S WHAT REALLY CHANGED? NEW EW CAMERAS: Cameras
used today are much more advanced, allowing for a higher quality of footage. “Most cinematographers shoot with DSLRs,” said Blake, “and it has such a different look. It’s a much cleaner product and it’s changed the whole game.”
Extensive knowledge, composition, training and artistic style set today’s cinematographers apart from the reels of yester-year.
COMpOSITION OMpOSITION & STYLE:
Editing by a cinematographer is much more extensive. Rodinis Films usually distills a wedding film down to 20 minutes plus trailer. Reliving every second of the day would take, well, 24 hours. And frankly, that’s not the point. “It’s being able to tell a story,” said Rodinis.
EDITING: DITING:
SOUNDS OUNDS GREAT, GREAT BUT WHAT ABOUT MY BUDGET? SHOWN ABOVE Left: Dustin Blake of Indy Productions shooting footage of a wedding reception. Right: Ryan Rodinis of Rodinis Films captures the detail in a bride’s dress.
Remember, the number of hours of footage will affect the bottom line so share your budget with your cinematographer and work together on a package that will accommodate everyone. Rodinis recognizes that people have different priorities for events, but still feels that cinematography should be included whenever possible. “You can spend a lot of money making things memorable, but you also want to remember it yourself,” he said. When it comes to pulling the trigger on the right cinematographer, we suggest you look no further than the computer screen. With the advent of youtube, vimeo and other media sharing sites, seeing what cinematographers and their work is all about is easier than ever.
30 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
FOR EVERY OCCASION
PRINT INSPIRATION by Leanna Adams
From Navajo-inspired prints to rich African mud cloths, to Japanese Shibori dye techniques, at this year’s Spring 2012 Fashion Week in New York, there were loads of sartorial inspiration strutting down the runway in the form of bold geometric patterns, animal prints and florals. What does that mean for your event décor? It means it’s time for printspiration!
SHOWN ABOVE Large: Toile dress by Lynn Lugo available at Lily & Iris, Salt Lake City, Utah; Small: Paisley linen pattern by I Do Linens
32 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
These days, there’s no bigger trend than awakening all the senses of your guests through tastes, smells, touch and exciting visuals. This does not mean you have to go crazy and try to use every print you ever liked, but it does mean that a tasteful use of pattern, print and florals alone or mixed together can add that extra visual interest to your event.
GO BOLD
Embrace this new wave of fashion forward design for your next special occasion. Instead of just going with two colors, consider Proenza Schouler’s ode to Native American tribal patterns, screen prints, versatile fabrics and a whole lotta gorgeous!
SUBTLE ACCENTS
An easy way to add interest to a room or your entire event’s décor is to add decorative accents. Incorporate your chosen prints through the use of pillows, napkins, placemats, table runners, and even backdrops. Or consider specifically draping fabric on a table, under the centerpiece, or over pieces of furniture.
RULES FROM THE RUNWAY
Dress your party like you dress yourself. A well-considered outfit using tasteful mixology will always be in style. And the same goes for your event’s décor. Choose your favorite pattern ideas and work with your event planner to create something unique and sophisticated. A geometric pattern can be combined with another pattern or a floral with complimentary shades, but proceed with caution when combining florals and contrasting tones. A designer or event planner can steer you in the right direction. Ikat is huge right now. And why not? Even though it’s one of the oldest forms of textile decoration, within ikat there are multitudes of different patterns and color combos. There are ways to do big splashy bits of printed structure at an event and maintain haute sophistication. Consider geometric linens, or Liberty floral invitations. Take colors that you love and find a pattern that displays them in a new and interesting way. Each element of your event could use a bit of print-spiration, but be sure not to overdo it. And when you’re unsure, seek expert help.
FOR EVERY OCCASION
GREAT MENUS ON A GRAND SCALE by Kristin Devoto
Planning a unique menu for a large group of guests can be tricky, but a little bit of research and creativity can go a long way. Say goodbye to yesterday’s rubber chicken. Today, innovative chefs can craft amazing, high quality dishes for crowds of 500, 1000, or more, as they deliver boutique style taste on a massive scale.
“When I think of boutique, I think of simple flavors, of being conscious of what quality you’re using,” said COBB GALLERIA CENTRE Executive Chef Nick Walker. “For us, a boutique meal is making each guest at a 1,000 person event feel like you care about what is served on each individual plate.” A meal is more than just food, it’s a shared experience -- and often a lasting memory, particularly at weddings. Boutique taste can be boiled down to this: quality and creativity. But that boutique dining experience shouldn’t be limited to a table for two. To make sure that your guests -- no matter how many -- have a fabulous meal, consider these tips for a crowd pleasing, boutique taste menu.
pICK A THEME
In the same way that your reception is rustic-barn-chic, consider serving a menu that refects the party decor and atmosphere. Communicate that vision to your caterer. “Initially, I take the ideas they give me and try to match the food to it,” explained Walker, who says he spends a significant amount of time researching the theme to make authentic menu suggestions.
LOOK FOR FLEXIBLE VENUES
A themed event will have limited success if you’re limited to a menu. Instead, search out venues with chefs that like to work outside the box. Every event “is a clean slate,” said Walker. “There’s no menu I have to go back to and look at, it’s all from my head.” At a recent carnival themed event, standout menu items Walker created were firecracker peppercorn steak and cotton candy flavored cupcakes!
SOURCE LOCAL AND REGIONAL FOODS SHOWN ABOVE Delectable desserts for the opening night party of the Southeastern Flower Show. The event was themed on music - Opera, Broadway, New Orleans Jazz, Memphis Blues and Detroit Rock City. Chef Walker designed his menu around this theme, including the opera-themed desserts. Images by Edward Zeltser Photography.
34 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
For a farm-to-table experience, ensure that the venue and chef like to source local or regional products. Georgia and the Southeast offer a rich selection of local purveyors of everything from produce to grits to ice cream. Choosing a menu that’s regionally and seasonally selected not only tastes delicious, but it’s a great way for out of town guests to -- quite literally -- sample your city! Well-thought-out planning paired with the right chef in the kitchen, an event of any size can offer guests an unforgettable menu bursting with boutique taste.
FOR EVERY OCCASION
PAPER ALTERNATIVES by Leanna Adams
When it comes to invitations, if you want something that makes a bold, sensory statement about your event, consider alternative materials like wood, silk, metal or acrylic…the options are almost endless and the results make a HUGE impact.
BE DIFFERENT
Vivian Foster, creator of CHERRY BLOSSOM CREATIONS, says when you go into a store and see a great material like feathers or fur it gives you an extra jolt of excitement. Similarly, her clients want something to stick out for their guests and give them a distinct sense of the coming event. “Clients come to me and want something special,” says Foster. “Using original materials stimulates all your guests’ faculties. The grit of the wood. The coldness of the metal. It engages the senses and allows someone to envision your event.”
DETERMINE YOUR STYLE
According to Patricia May, owner of INVITATION CREATIONS, LLC, the best thing about alternative materials is that, “ No two pieces of wood and no two hand-painted works are alike. People are wanting [and getting] something they’ve never seen before.” May says about 75% of her clients know what they want in the sense that they want ultra modern with clean lines, fonts and colors. This helps in determining the right invitation. Maybe they want an invite with weight, and looks impressive -- acrylic may be up their alley, and so on. “I always ask my clients to define their personal style in three words,” says May. “They will want their unique style reflected in the invite, which is an essence of them going out in the mail.”
THE FINE pRINT
SHOWN ABOVE Left: Metal Invitation by Invitation Creations, LLC; Right: Copper Invitation book by Cherry Blossom Creations
36 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
The alternative materials and custom process will take a little longer than other kinds of invitations. Out of the ordinary requests should not pose a problem for artisans, but more time is often required for complex designs. For wedding invites, stationers will prefer four to six months lead-time. This gives them leeway to develop the idea with client input. For a nice baby shower, three months before the event and two months before they go out should suffice. Whether it’s crafted with silk, suede, patina copper, feathers, mahogany or wax seals, if you can imagine it, there are artisans out there that can make it. And if you can’t imagine it, but still want to be innovative, they are more than happy to wow you with their creativity. First impressions last. Let the first thing your guests receive create a tactile vision in their minds of the coming event. The effort will speak volumes about you.
photo by coreykopischke.com
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 37
STYLE SPARK
38 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
Inspiration ON LOCATION LIVINGSTON RESTAURANT AT THE GEORGIAN TERRACE
Balancing history and tradition with our ever evolving city can be a real challenge. there is at least one place in atlanta who is doing both. Nestled square in the heart of midtown and directly across the tree lined street from the (fabulous) fox theatre is the georgian terrace. More specifically, the livingston bar & restaurant. It is the home of quintessential, collected cool. The sort of place that admires the past and embraces the what’s to come. As the hotel celebrates is centennial anniversary this year, we found ourselves inspired by a different kind of anniversary party: an intimate 25th wedding anniversary fête. In the next few pages, we’ll be taking a stroll down memory lane, and toasting to the next 25! We do hope you’ll join us.
IMAGES BY DAVID CHRISTENSEN PHOTOGRAPHY
STYLE SPARK • INSPIRATION ON LOCATION
40 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
LIVINGSTON RESTAURANT The spirit of LIVINGSTON RESTAURANT AND BAR is deep seeded in rich hospitality. The restaurant currently sits where former Atlanta Mayor Livingston Mills resided in 1879. Known for being a consummate host and generous toward everyone he came into contact with, his legacy lives on at this midtown treasure. It is the same spirit of warmth and passionate living that greets each guest daily as they take their seats in the dining room. Struck by the expansive windows and romantic light they allow in the private dining space on Livingston’s second floor, it’s there that the night’s esteemed couple is hosting their intimate celebration.
CENTERPIECES When designing their anniversary party, Stacy and Suzy’s aim was to celebrate the many moments that made up their own history of love. We asked them to send us pictures taken throughout their marriage for a special centerpiece project we had up our sleeve. Using contact paper, a photocopier and a little bit of elbow grease, we transferred their images onto glass cylinders varying in size, and illuminated them for a unique, lovely, and very sentimental centerpiece. Casting a similarly warm glow was the metallic confetti that littered the navy linens by WILDFLOWER LINEN. We used oversized individual hole punches with copper foil and sparkling sterling paper to get the festive look. EDITOR’S NOTE: Our centerpiece idea was sparked by a post on how to create photo transfers from the INSpIRED IDEAS blog. To get a behind the scenes look at how the votives came to life and to find a more creative DIY projects from Inspired Ideas, click the QR code below.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 41
STYLE SPARK • INSPIRATION ON LOCATION
THE INVITATIONS
It goes without saying that a 25 year marriage yields more memories than a picture album could hold. We wanted to capture the very first moment though, and showcase it throughout such a happy evening. Shot as the new Mr. and Mrs. made their getaway, the sweet photo (opposite) became the inspiration for the night’s invitation suite. Part picture frame, part memory lane and part invitation, SANDI SpELLS DESIGN knocked this nostalgic number out of the park!
WHAT TO WEAR
Inspired by the EE Cumming’s poem “I carry your heart with me,” we cleverly created a boutonniere that exemplified the sentiment. First, we shrunk two of the couple’s most treasured photos to fit the dainty lockets -which we spray painted rose gold to go along with our color scheme. Navy blue ribbon fastened the two together (in an eternity knot) and kept our miniature bouquet intact. In the language of flowers, a bouquet of ranunculus means “I’m dazzled by your charms.” In our case, both literally and figuratively. Nothing says party like sequins, are we right? This navy blue dazzler from BLOOMINGDALES was the perfect party frock for the big night. And how about that corsage? There’s much more where that came from, flip the page for the dish on that pretty little thing. We couldn’t think of a more classic and contemporary brand than BURBERRY to outfit our guy for this oh so special occasion. Sterling silver cufflinks and a crisp navy tie were the icing on the cake.
42 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
43 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLE SPARK • INSPIRATION ON LOCATION
44 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
COCKTAIL HOUR Our intimate affair began in the Livingston bar. At once cozy and grand, the room was filled with early evening light and the warm glow of candles, making it the perfect spot for celebratory cocktails and plenty of toasts! Drinks were mixed with signature liquors served from mod decanters from BLOOMINGDALES. Adding a touch of femininity, we outfitted the decanters with custom name tags, strung with our signature navy ribbon and accented with more of the couple’s signature photo charms.
DETAILS
As always, coming up with a color scheme, or event inspiration board can help you with the continuity of your big event. We were inspired by the masculine architecture of Livingston and the soft gray, lavender and white paint and upholstery. Battle of the sexes? No, just the perfect spot for an anniversary party! We chose navy and rosegold decor, while incorporating as many black and white pictures of Stacey and Suzy as we could. You’ll see how both elements played an important role in making the night special. EDITOR’S TIp: Think about hiring a stationer for more than just invitations. The always divine SANDI SpELLS DESIGN helped us to not only craft the perfect invitation, but each paper piece you see on this page. Taking a cue from the invitations are our picture frame inspired, wine glass coasters. The “whiskey” and “bourbon” tags were another Sandi Spells creation, with coordinating text to match the coasters, invitations and cigar favor wraps. A celebratory gesture for an oh-so-festive occasion.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 45 OCCASIONS
STYLE SPARK • INSPIRATION ON LOCATION
TIERS OF JOY
Of course, what would an anniversary party be without cake? TASTY pASTRY exceeded our bride and groom’s expectations with this towering five tier confection. Like the one they first cut into, the cake was vanilla flavored -- but far from bland! An uncanny replica of the night’s signature bloom and corsage was handcrafted to adorn this special treat. Dusted with fine glitter and trimmed in navy ribbon, the cake was a complete show stopper, don’t you agree?
HAUTE CORSAGE If there is a lesson to be learned from this so-lucky-in-love couple, it’s that when you find something -- or someone -- special, you’ve got to snatch it up right then and there! We couldn’t have felt the same way more when it came to the positively exquisite work by Mary Louise High of LITTLE BLUE STUDIO. We came across her artisan, hand crafted corsages months ago and they immediately sparked our imagination and inspiration for one such anniversary fête. The perfect modern twist on a time honored tradition.
46 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
47 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLE SPARK • SHOP THE SHOOT
5-
1-
2-
43-
6-
SHOP THE SHOOT Love the look of our dark, navy chiavari chairs? There a personal favorite of ours, too. When planning for our shoot we had a stroke of genius and decided that dark navy blue chairs to match the navy WILDFLOWER LINEN table linens would be just the dramatic touch we’d been looking for. WE RENT ATLANTA was our knight in shining armour; providing the rental chairs we needed, as well as painting the chairs our signature shade. We Rent Atlanta is the only rental company in the city that can customize chivari chairs like this -- what a find! SHOWN ABOVE
1 - Painted Chiavari Chairs: WE RENT ATLANTA, 2 - Navy and copper confetti: supplies found at HOBBY LOBBY, 3 - Iridescent Taffeta Cotton Candy Linen & Matte Satin Navy Linens by WILDFLOWER LINENS, 4 - Five Tier Cake: TASTY pASTRY, p pASTRY , 5 - Custom Stationery, coasters and cigar wraps: SANDI SpELLS DESIGN, 6 - Custom flower corsage: LITTLE BLUE STUDIO
48 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
SPECTACULAR WEDDING GALLERIES featuring
Wedding Cake, Floral & Photography Showcases
12pm - 5pm
announcing The International Wedding Pavilion
Come BE A BRIDE! Here’s what you’ll experience... · Atlanta’s Best Wedding Professionals. · Exciting couture fashion shows. · Tasty treats and wedding cake. · Discover the perfect venue, flowers, photographers, honeymoon, & much more! · Creative ideas and designs. · Win a romantic honeymoon or thousands in door prizes! 49 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
© nadia d photography
For more info & to pre-register BeABride.co
Tickets available online
$10 advance | $15 day of show cash only
Use promo code: OMBride for $5.00 off advanced tickets.
Brides Hotline 678-439-9334
pALETTE pERSpECTIVES ABOUT THE DESIGNER
CHRISTOPHER CONFERO chrIsTopher confero desIgn
Christopher Confero approaches every design with new and fresh ideas. His knowledge of floral design, lighting, graphics, space planning and decor allows him to offer full event development from concept to execution. His signature style, modern luxury, combines modern style with traditional elements -- but insist they have meaning for today. “It’s thrilling for me to take on the challenge of integrating your style in combination with my design aesthetic, and give birth to an amazing production.”
CONCEPT
When we assigned Chris to “Dapper,” we wanted him to think effortless cool. It’s the sort of design that was marked by neat, trim decor and the classically styled details that eventually inspired the original dapper Dan. A dapper party is incredibly smart, sexy and always stylish.
MY TAKE
“I am currently in LOvE with navy & gold so I was ecstatic when Heather assigned me this color scheme. To top it all off with a ‘dapper’ twist, it couldn’t have been any more Confero than if I’d selected it all myself. I wanted everything to be reflective of my aesthetic but still be relatable to a bride. I used a dynamic & bold graphic, paired it with shimmering metallics and voilà - a perfect pallette.” In my wildest dreams... Jacqueline and John F. Kennedy would most likely be spotted celebrating at this table.
SHOWN HERE We know what you’re thinking, this place setting is exquisite! Designed by the legendary luxury brand Hermès, it has an exquisite price tag to match: $2,000 per set!
CREATIVE TEAM Concept and Design CHRISTOpHER CONFERO DESIGN, Photography ARDEN pHOTOGRApHY, Stationery MARIÉE AMI, China and Glassware BROMBERG’S, Linens I DO LINENS
50 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
51 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
pALETTE pERSpECTIVES ABOUT THE DESIGNER
RANDI MOORE The WeddIng goWn salon
Randi Lawrence Moore is one of the industry’s most experienced wedding planners and special event designers who creates organized, elegant, and astonishing events. In 2010, Randi Lawrence Moore took the lifelong dream of owning and operating a Bridal Salon into full swing. She is the proud owner of The Wedding Gown Salon in Atlanta, GA with exclusive designers such as Rina di Montella and Adele Fabiano.
CONCEPT
There is a certain feminine sensibility we hear with the word “whimsical.” Playfully quaint and fanciful, whimsy is the chance to accent the beauty and wonder of a special day or event. Sometimes thought of as fairy-like, we prefer practical magic: a bewitching combination of elegance and charm.
MY TAKE
“The most exciting part of the wedding planning process is the wedding gown shopping, so why not have brunch in the bridal salon and share this experience with family and friends! With design it’s all about the inspiration of the location and with beautiful ruffled wedding gowns around me the inspiration poured out with ease. Ruffles around coral chargers, lace around the vase of beautiful flowers and food to entice the appetite. In my wildest dreams... Princess Kate, Pippa Middleton and the Queen herself would be the ones celebrating at this table!”
SHOWN HERE Do those rose chargers look familiar? We chose the same piece in teal for our Teal Me About It feature. Great minds think alike!
CREATIVE TEAM Concept and Floral Design RANDI LAWRENCE MOORE of THE WEDDING GOWN SALON, Photography WORLEY ARTS pHOTOGRApHY, Linens and Chargers BBJ LINENS, Stationery SANDI SpELLS DESIGN, Catering RFA FAMILY AFFAIR CATERING, Location THE WEDDING GOWN SALON
52 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
pALETTE pERSpECTIVES ABOUT THE DESIGNER
JPATRICK MCCANN jpaTrIck desIgns for se evenTs
Jpatrick is the signature force behind Jpatrick Designs, a full-service event planning company that has built a solid reputation on creating dazzling, dramatic parties for a broad spectrum of clients with varied tastes, creative requirements, and budgetary allocations. Jpatrick manifests dream events on every scale—from supremely elegant corporate functions to smoldering theme parties infused with theatrical spectacle, to whimsical holiday parties and lavish receptions, as well as timeless, romantic weddings and anniversary celebrations, among others.
CONCEPT
Avant Garde is meant to push the boundaries of the status quo. Perfect for the host who wants to keep guests buzzing, avant garde is THE design trend. Experimental and innovative, avant garde isn’t for the faint of heart. Taking risks and playing with fantasy is what this style is all about.
MY TAKE
“I love live classical music and that influenced my storyline for this table. I thought it would be wonderful to create a formal table befitting a dinner for patrons of the symphony. I designed the additional lighting in blue and gold and placed it behind the chandelier to give the effect of fireworks emanating from the fixture and illuminating the harpist. It would be my dream to feature a different musical artist at every table: each artist would have a solo and then all would play in unison. In my wildest dreams... Yo-Yo Ma & Zubin Mehta would most likely be spotted celebrating at this table.” SHOWN BELOW Live music isn’t just for big receptions. Consider hiring a string trio or harpist to set the tone for your dinner party or intimate gathering.
CREATIVE TEAM Concept and Design JpATRICk MCCANN, Photography DIANNE HUDSON, Harpist DANIA LANE, Stationery DECO MARJ, Rentals EVENT RENTALS UNLIMITED, Cupcakes CARYN’S CAkES, Location LE FAIS DO DO, Linens CONNIE DUGLIN LINENS
54 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
55 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
VENUE
GUIDE
SNAPSHOTS FROM THIS SECTION
A beautiful reception setting at an even more gorgeous college campus setting...
Traditional, ornate, glitz and glam... all words to describe this iconic Atlanta venue...
71
77
Give guests something to gush about at a venue with killer views like this....
82
Escape to the countryside and acres of fun at this new South Atlanta property...
86
WHAT TYPE OF OCCASION DO YOU ENvISION? You’re thinking about invitations, dresses and wedding bands, but do you know where you’re actually getting married? Having the reception? Fear not, we’ve put together this handy venue guide to help you navigate those very (sometimes treacherous) waters! With features like a neighborhood navigator, QR codes and At A Glance -- not to mention the largest showcase of venues in Atlanta -- we’ve streamlined your search in a major way. Piece of cake!
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 57
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
GETTING STARTED
WHAT TYPE OF OCCASION DO YOU ENVISION? IT ALL STARTS WITH YOUR vENUE. In a city like Atlanta, the options are limitless. There are appropriate facilities for parties of all sizes, but when you’re choosing the perfect spot for your next event, all of those options can be overwhelming. The size of the crowd will narrow down your choices, but then there are still numerous types of venues to consider. Whatever your particular tastes, when the time comes to throw your special occasion, make sure you know what to look for in a venue before you book.
CONFERENCE CENTERS & FUNCTION FACILITIES What makes them so special? A banquet hall, conference center or function facility is often an excellent choice for an event because this venue type offers cost-efficient and hassle-free packages. They were designed with big occasions in mind, so they will have workable layouts, which will translate into easy food and beverage flow. They are also likely to already have tons of wedding and special event experience, making their site coordinators invaluable resources at your disposal.
COBB GALLERIA CENTRE
Things to remember: Function facilities may host multiple events per day, affecting your starting and ending times. Make sure you and your planner work out your timeline and don’t feel crunched. Often you can book a large block of time (say 10 hours) to avoid feeling squeezed in by another event. Another thing to think about is that a function facility’s ambiance may allow for more accoutrements/florals/imagination to make it your own. Consider it a blank canvas that you can mold into your own personal masterpiece.
plus :: These type of venues are designed with big occasions in mind, so they will have workable layouts.
FUNCTION FACILITY
COUNTRY CLUBS What makes them so special? Country clubs can be excellent venues because of the extra activities they may offer, like golf and tennis. Country clubs also host events frequently and have experienced staff members who are accustomed to dealing with large groups. The interiors of country clubs will vary, but the grounds will be beautiful and may include lakes, golf courses, gardens or marinas. ST IVES COUNTRY CLUB
plus :: These type of venues can be excellent venues because of the extra activities they may offer.
58 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
Things to remember: Facilities at a country club are not completely private for your event (members will most likely still be on site), and your food options may be more limited than at a restaurant. That said, the food that is offered will be of high quality. Because country clubs regularly accommodate small to large events, they are adept at catering to a crowd. Also keep in mind that you may have to be sponsored by a member to host your event at a country club.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde HOTELS & RESORTS What makes them so special? Hotels and resorts can be fabulous for events because they have onsite accommodations and added amenities like shuttles, spas, restaurants, concierge service, etc. You can choose a hotel for its close proximity to an airport and/or particular destination. Also, hotels may have low or no rental fees for venue space if you book a block of guest rooms.
W ATLANTA - BUCKHEAD
plus :: providing everything you could possibly need in one location, these venues make things super easy for you and your guests.
Things to remember: Hotels and resorts often host multiple events at once. Remember to talk to the on-site events manager about how they separate, staff and manage each event. Will you be right next to one another? Will you be able to hear another party’s music? How does the hotel catering handle multiple events at once? Venues like this are experienced in this area and should have knowledgeable responses to all of your inquiries. Also note that should more than one event be taking place at a hotel or resort there will be a high rate of guest room reservations. Make sure that your secure a block of hotel rooms early and let your guests know how and when to take advantage of the group rate.
HISTORIC & ANTEBELLUM MANSIONS What makes them so special? Mansions, antebellum homes and historic houses have impressive architecture, historical significance and manicured grounds, providing distinctive (and memorable) settings. Things to remember: One thing to consider at these venues is space. If there is no large ballroom, parties may have to be split into smaller rooms or take place outside. There may be special restrictions to ensure the care of these sacred spots. These venues are often in gorgeous but secluded locations, so consider transportation, accommodation and ease of access by your guests.
plus :: These venues tend to host one event at a time, giving you maximum privacy.
THE HAZLEHURST HOUSE
URBAN SETTINGS What makes them so special? Whether you choose an old warehouse or a spanking new rooftop space overlooking downtown, entertaining in the city is made fresh again when you carve an occasion out of a distinctive urban setting. Elegantly aged train depots, wall-to-wall glass venues, city views and clubs perched atop skyscrapers can serve as your perfect event space, offering an original citified backdrop. Things to remember: Research your setting thoroughly. Consider any traffic issues that might arise from the location or specific date because large sporting events, markets or festivals can cause significant traffic challenges. Know where guests can park and make sure it’s easy for them to get from parking to venue and back again.
SUMMEROUR
plus :: at urban venues, the place itself is visually intriguing and gives guests something to gush about.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 59
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde MUSEUMS & THE ARTS What makes them so special? Libraries and museums have distinctive architecture and cultural ambiance. They may even have exhibitions on display that can add another element of entertainment to your event. Things to remember: Libraries and museums are open to the public, which means they potentially have particular rules and hours of operation. Know the red tape before choosing this type of venue, and remember that less coordination assistance may be at your disposal at libraries and museums than at other venues. Your guests won’t soon forget these settings, but you will want to hire a professional planner to help with the details.
plus :: These type of venues have distinctive architecture and cultural ambiance.
THE SWAN HOUSE AT ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
PUBLIC PARKS & GARDENS What makes them so special? Events at public parks, gardens and beaches solve decorating dilemmas by allowing the manicured landscape and Mother Nature do the work. A natural setting like one of these can be a lovely complement to a relaxed event.
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN
Things to remember: Required permits and other restrictions may apply at these venues. Along with Mother Nature’s wonderful touch come outdoor obstacles like insects, temperature, noises, allergens, dirt and mud. A backup plan including lighting, music, seating, space, etc. will be a must in case of inclement weather. We’re talking about the great outdoors, so remember that everything will likely have to be rented – from tables and chairs to portable restrooms and dance floors.
plus :: outdoor locations often solve decorating dilemmas by allowing the manicured landscape and mother nature do the work.
BALLROOMS What makes them special? Ideal for an elegant sit-down gala, benefit, awards ceremony, or for live entertainment, ballrooms were created for bashes. They are specifically designed to run smoothly while a large crowd is gathered. Things to remember: Where there are ballrooms, there may be other ballrooms, which could mean that it’s important to book blocks of hotel rooms sooner rather than later to ensure your guests have a place to stay. Ballrooms tend to be one-stop entertaining shops, but with an all-inclusive package and experienced staff may come a budgetary premium.
plus :: They also come staffed with experienced planners, caterers and servers who know what they’re doing, do it often and on a large scale.
60 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
103 WEST
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
making sense of the
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
VENUE GUIDE
VENUE GUIDE
BUCK BUCKheAD
ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
We make finding venues easy-breezy. There are many details to consider when choosing an event venue. To simplify the search for a party location, we’ve compiled a directory of our venue partners and have outlined the very details you’ll need to decide which venue is right for you.
uuFEATURES
Centrally located on 33 acres in the beautiful neighborhood of Buckhead, the Atlanta History Center features historic houses, gardens, event spaces, and award-winning exhibitions. With venues for small daytime corporate meetings to intimate weddings, to 500-person galas, the Atlanta History Center offers the widest variety of special event options at one location. The Grand Overlook’s simple elegance makes it one of the most sought after venues in Atlanta. Featuring a barrel vaulted ceiling, Brazilian cherry-wood floors and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the magnificent wooded Quarry Garden, the Grand Overlook is as versatile as it is breathtaking. Let beauty and serenity set the scene for your event in the glorious Swan House Gardens. Outdoor gatherings at this iconic 1928 mansion with stately columns rise to unforgettable heights on a private lawn with majestic cascading fountains and the beautiful boxwood garden. For a one-of-a-kind experience, host your event in the Atlanta History Museum where guests can explore history through our permanent award-winning and intriguing changing exhibitions. McElreath Hall is one of our most versatile spaces, containing a 400-person auditorium for seminars, a sky-lit atrium for pre-event functions and a boutique ballroom overlooking beautiful wooded gardens. Woodruff Auditorium and Members Room are rented separately during the day or can be combined with the adjoining atrium for an entertaining evening function. For down-home country appeal, the Tullie Smith Farm is unrivaled. Our 1860s farmhouse, outbuildings and period gardens give your event a remarkably rustic and charming allure in the heart of bustling Buckhead.
details you’ll need to know...
part of town ‘at a glance’ section outlines details like catering options, parking, amenities and special features
CONTACT 130 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 814-4090 www.aTlanTahiSTorycenTer.com www.a www.aT lanTahi T Tahi STorycenTer.com
uuQR CODES Want immediate info on a venue that catches your eye? Take that smart phone of yours and download a QR app and scan away. Seriously, you can’t get quicker access to more info any other way. You’ll find direct access to... •
SEE MORE PICTURES OF EACH VENUE
•
READ REVIEWS
•
SEND A QUICK INQUIRY
•
FIND OUT MORE INFORMATION
# oF even evenT SpaceS: capaciTy:
Approved catering list Limited tables & chairs, event manager and security parking: Limited free parking Special FeaTureS: Lush gardens and majestic woodlands surround the ultimate unique Atlanta venue that includes the renowned Swan House lawns and Grand Overlook Ballroom located in the heart of Buckhead. caTering: includeS:
SCAN here FOR MORE PICTURES, VIDEO, REVIEWS & INFORMATION
SpecialevenTS@aT @a lanTahi @aT T Tahi STorycenTer.com SpecialevenTS@aTlanTahiSTorycenTer.com
contact info, website, email, plus quick access to more pictures, video, reviews and inquiry forms with the qr code.
10,000 7 10 - 2,000
ToTal al Square FooTage: Foo
OUTDOOr
BALLrOO M
68 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
STEP 1
Head to your smart phone app store and download a
free qr code scanner
STEP 2 Using your new QR code scanner app, hover over the bar code image until your phone recognizes the code.
STEP 3
Peruse our mobile enabled venue profiles and get educated on the venues of your choice!
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 61 OCCASIONSONLINE
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Dawson
GETTING STARTED
venue guIde
Bartow
Cherokee
Forsyth
3
q Hall
h 7
; ,
Barro
y / Paulding
Cobb
s
6 b
x
8
iE 1wg f 5e .k vo c 4 jnR9 2 Wt d
Gwinnett
m r
Q DeKalb
Walton
Douglas
a
p Fulton
Rockdale
oll
z Clayton Coweta
Fayette
u venue map
Troup
Meriwether
Newton
u
Spalding
fInd a venue near you. The occasions magazine venue guide is designed to make finding your event venue the easiest part of your journey. In the following pages you’ll find country clubs, function facilities, hotels, historic homes and more locations. keep an eye out for the icons to help you identify the venue type you’re looking for. 62 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
l
Pike
Henry
onlIne u plus more Butts
Jasper
The goodness doesn’t stop here. online at occasionsonline.com you’ll be able to...find a larger selection of venues, see more pictures and video of all venues, locate more venues on the map, search by venue type
Lamar
Jon
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
u WanT To see
u 103 West
1
u grand hyatt atlanta
23
u agnes scott college
2
u jW marriott
24
some of These venues In person?
u alpharetta athletic club
3
u The manor golf &
u atlanta Botanical gardens
4
25
join us for the studioWed venue Tours!
u atlanta history center
5
u atlanta perimeter hotel
& suites
6
u Bear’s Best
7
u Berkeley hills
8
u Biltmore Ballrooms
9
u marriott marquis
26
u mason murer
27
u merle manders
28
u The metropolitan club
29
u The morrow center
30
u olde Towne athletic club 31
u Bradford house
fEbRuARy 26:
City Chic Tour Ballrooms & rooftop venues APRIL 1:
10
u peachtree club
32
u The Buckhead club
11
u piedmont room
33
u The Buckhead Theatre
12
u cobb galleria
13
u The commerce club
14
u ravinia club
34
u renaissance midtown
35
u renaissance Waverly
36
u st. Ives country club
37
16
u summerour
38
u foundry at puritan mill
17
u The gardens at
u The fox Theatre
18
u foxhall resort
19
u gateway marriott
u country club of the south 15 u eagles landing
country club
The StudioWed Atlanta venue tour series gives engaged couples the chance to see multiple wedding venues in one day with transportation provided. The venues roll out the red carpet for our couples with festive cocktails and bites. The tour starts with registration at 10am at StudioWed and lasts until 5pm. Tickets are $25 per person, or $40 per couple. Ticket includes transportation, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and StudioWed gift bag.
kennesaw mountain
39
u vecoma
40
20
u ventanas
41
u The georgia club
21
u W Buckhead
42
u georgian Terrace
22
u W midtown
43
Southern Charm Tour
Historic & outdoor venues
view venue lineup and register to attend at studiowedvenue.eventbrite.com
- BROUGHT TO YOU BY -
magaZIne
& gardens
country club
TM
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 63
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
BUCKHEAD
ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER
our reception went so smoothly and we had an amazing evening of fun and dancing. When we first got a sneak peek at the ballroom-we fell in love with the room, and we’re so glad to have had our wedding reception there. It was such a pleasure working with you.
- The McArthurs
Centrally located on 33 acres in the beautiful neighborhood of Buckhead, the Atlanta History Center features historic houses, gardens, event spaces, and award-winning exhibitions. With venues for small daytime corporate meetings to intimate weddings, to 500-person galas, the Atlanta History Center offers the widest variety of special event options at one location. The Grand Overlook’s simple elegance makes it one of the most sought after venues in Atlanta. Featuring a barrel vaulted ceiling, Brazilian cherry-wood floors and floor to ceiling windows overlooking the magnificent wooded Quarry Garden, the Grand Overlook is as versatile as it is breathtaking. Let beauty and serenity set the scene for your event in the glorious Swan House Gardens. Outdoor gatherings at this iconic 1928 mansion with stately columns rise to unforgettable heights on a private lawn with majestic cascading fountains and the beautiful boxwood garden. For a one-of-a-kind experience, host your event in the Atlanta History Museum where guests can explore history through our permanent award-winning and intriguing changing exhibitions. McElreath Hall is one of our most versatile spaces, containing a 400-person auditorium for seminars, a sky-lit atrium for pre-event functions and a boutique ballroom overlooking beautiful wooded gardens. Woodruff Auditorium and Members Room are rented separately during the day or can be combined with the adjoining atrium for an entertaining evening function. For down-home country appeal, the Smith Family Farm is unrivaled. Our 1860s farmhouse, outbuildings and period gardens give your event a remarkably rustic and charming allure in the heart of bustling Buckhead.
CONTACT 130 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 814-4090 www.ATLANTAHISTORyCENTER.COm/EVENTS SPECIALEVENTS@ATLANTAHISTORyCENTER.COm
64 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
16,000 8 10 - 1,250
approved catering list INCLuDES: limited tables & chairs, event manager and security PARkING: complimentary parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: lush gardens and majestic woodlands surround the ultimate unique atlanta venue that includes the renowned swan house lawns and grand overlook Ballroom located in the heart of Buckhead. CATERING:
OUTDOOR
our guests are still raving about the party.... thank you so much for making this special occasion a true “Wow!”
- Margaret Glenn
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 65
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
JOHNS CREEK
COUNTRY CLUB OF THE SOUTH
once I stepped foot into the Traditions Ballroom at country club of the south, I knew ‘this is it.’ not only the overall appearance of the club met my expectations, but the staff was very professional and went above and beyond.
- Kylie Roger
Quietly nestled among lush pines, rolling hills, and sparkling streams lies perhaps the most beautiful wedding site in all of Georgia, The Country Club of the South. The three level stone and cedar clubhouse sets the stage for an unmatched experience of warmth and genuine southern hospitality. With the clubs magnificent ballroom, beautiful patio overlooking the 18th green, and a four-bedroom guest villa it’s no wonder that The Country Club of the South is the new favorite choice of couples in search of the perfect wedding. From an elegant seated dinner to a grilled feast on the terrace, you will experience award-winning cuisine under the close supervision of the Club’s acclaimed chef. You can also plan your rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or engagement party in one of the club’s five elegant private dining rooms. In addition to the world–class cuisine and beautiful lodge-like surroundings, you will also experience the ultimate in service-attention paid to your every need. Whether your style is traditional or unique, The Club’s professionals will bring your dream to life. From the first planning consultation to the creation of your one-of–a-kind wedding, you will have a team of talented personal “assistants” at your side every step of the way.
CONTACT 4100 Old Alabama Road Johns Creek, GA 30022
(678) 297-5951 www.THECOuNTRyCLubOfTHESOuTH.COm bRITNEy.mILAm@OuRCLub.COm
66 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
55,000 10 10 - 500
onsite catering provided by award winning chef, custom designed menus including organic and vegan INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, glassware, silverware, setup & breakdown, service staff PARkING: complimentary parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: outdoor and indoor ceremony sites, exquisite lodge style clubhouse with stone fireplace, golf course view, onsite 4 bedroom, 4 and a half bath, villa for fine lodging, outside terrace for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres CATERING:
COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
photography by duane store, kristen alexander photographer, and allen gunn studios
all the guests had a wonderful time and are still admiring the delicious food and an amazing staff who made it all happen.
- Anna Meehan
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 67
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
SOUTH ATLANTA
MERLE MANDERS CONFERENCE CENTER
“merle manders conference center was the perfect place for our wedding. The staff was very helpful and did everything they could to make our day as special as we hoped it would be. The fireplace is beautiful and was a great focal point for our winter wedding.”
- Cheryl Barker
Looking for the perfect meeting or event venue comfortably south of Atlanta? Merle Manders Conference Center is classy and sophisticated enough for a formal affair, yet cozy and relaxed enough for a fun, laid back type of atmosphere. Whether you host your corporate meeting, conference, wedding, reception or special event at MMCC, you can be rest assured that it will be a special event to remember. The impressive conference center is adjacent to the beautiful and serene Clark Park, which is a city park that has a flowing creek, over 2 miles of walking trails and 2 pavilions. The center has over 14,000 square feet of meeting space, with a 6,000 square-foot fully carpeted ballroom complete with a huge stone fireplace, 30 foot peaked wood ceiling, beautiful chandeliers with several lighting options and a variety of setup options. There are also 5 additional meeting rooms on the lower level that are used for corporate and private functions. A large, usable balcony overlooks the park from the ballroom, while a large patio area provides additional outdoor space on the lower level. The center also has a private bride’s room and ample free parking. We provide competitive pricing for both corporate meetings and private events. We can make your planning easy by either offering complete meeting, event and bridal packages or we can allow you to pick and choose from our item menu and/or let you handle your own items to save on your budget. Merle Manders Conference Center also manages the 2,000 square feet of meeting space at the new Stockbridge Community Center.
CONTACT 111 Davis Road Stockbridge, GA 30281
(770) 389-5982 www.mmCCEVENTS.COm mRObERTS@CITyOfSTOCkbRIDGE-GA.GOV
68 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
16,000 6 20 - 300
choose from preferred caterers INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, bridal suite PARkING: complimentary free parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: Beautiful nature like setting viewed from our large covered veranda. large windows allow natural light for daytime events and spectacular chandeliers for an evening glow. stone fireplace from floor to ceiling. only 20 minutes south of the airport and easily accessible from I-75, I-285 and I-675. CATERING:
photography by randall granier photography (www.randallgranier..com) linens by sit’n pretty chairs covers & linens (www.sitnprettychairs.com) floral by eagles landing floral design (www.eagleslandingfloral.com)
“everything was so perfect and beautiful, I almost cried when I saw my bride walking down the aisle.” FUNCTION FACILITY
BALLROO M
–Andy Lassiter
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 69
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
BUCKHEAD
103 WEST
main photo by Wittmayer photography
No address in prestigious Buckhead is more synonymous with unforgettable events than 103 West. Newly renovated, the elegant, classically modern venue is Atlanta’s premier event space. Big enough for a gala of 400 but intimate enough for a small gathering of 20, 103 West offers sophisticated warmth ideal for any occasion. Featuring exceptional Continental cuisine from worldclass chefs, 103 West excels in creating a dining experience that reflects your personal style in ways that will leave you and your guests with lasting memories. Each of the main spaces at 103 West is connected by pre-function areas that wow guests from the first glimpse to the last goodbye with elegant lounge furniture, draped walls and chic accents. The Club Room, which welcomes guests with white floor-to-ceiling wainscoting accented by antique mirrors, is perfect for bridal luncheons or corporate events for up to 40 guests. The Buckhead Ballroom is bright and contemporary, with three elaborate crystal chandeliers, neutral fabric covered walls and four architectural columns. The Buckhead Ballroom can accommodate 150 seated guests around the custom black and white checkered dance floor or up to 250 guest reception style. At 4,500 square feet, the Grand Ballroom is the largest event space at 103 West, featuring a 15-foot vaulted ceiling in the entry way, mirrored ceilings, arched windows and six magnificent crystal chandeliers. The Grand Ballroom’s white tufted walls are the perfect backdrop for a party of up to 250 guests for dinner and dancing on the custom dance floor. For larger events, the entire facility can be used to create a grand event offering a variety of guest experiences.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
103 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30305
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 233-5993 www.103wEST.COm ASk103wEST@buCkHEADRESTAuRANTS.COm
70 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy
8,000 5 400
onsite catering & pastry chef INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linen, glassware, china, silverware, floral bud vases, votives, accent mirrors, house cocktail music and Baby grand pianos. courtesy guest wireless and coat check. PARkING: valet SPECIAL fEATuRES: newly renovated, stylish sophisticated decor. located in atlanta’s most prestigous neighborhood. preferred guest rates available for Buckhead’s finest hotels. part of the award-winning Buckhead life restaurant group. CATERING:
FUNCTION FACILITY
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DECATUR
venue guIde
AGNES SCOTT COLLEGE
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
42,000 6 350
catering on site, custom designed menus INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, china and bar wares PARkING: ample free parking, valet SPECIAL fEATuRES: historic site, picturesque campus, event lawns, garden, hardwood floors, close proximity to downtown decatur CATERING:
Your fairytale begins here … whether you’re planning a wedding, reception, rehearsal dinner or bridal shower, you and your guests will be captivated by the lure of the historic ambiance and breathtaking collegiate and contemporary Gothic architecture of Agnes Scott College. The Julia Thompson Smith Chapel is available for your special day. Your ceremony can take place in our stunning yet intimate Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired chapel, designed to allow its natural setting to enhance special occasions. The chapel is approximately 1100 square feet with seating for up to 140 people. Multiple indoor and outdoor event facilities that seat up to 350 guests are available for your special occasion. For an unparalleled celebration filled with charm, beauty and modern conveniences, reserve your date today with Agnes Scott College in historic Decatur.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 141 East College Avenue Decatur, GA 30809
(404) 471-6700 www.AGNESSCOTT.EDu HRObINSON@AGNESSCOTT.EDu
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 71
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
ALPHARETTA
ALPHARETTA ATHLETIC CLUB
large photo by photo synthesis studio; Two small photos by The decisive moment.
Located in Alpharetta, minutes away from GA 400, sits the magnificent Tudor-style clubhouse of Alpharetta Athletic Club. This private country club is available for outside events and provides superb service and catering. Alpharetta Athletic Club’s East Course clubhouse features rooms beautifully appointed for a wedding ceremony, reception or private event. Guests arrive through a grand foyer complete with a baby grand piano, large southern staircase, cathedral ceiling and impressive chandelier. Proceeding to the charming bar and grille area which features stunning custom hand painted designs, guests make their way to the club’s true feature, the grand ballroom with a large stone fireplace and designer finishes including flowing drapery and Venetian plaster. This exquisite room offers a comfortable and impressive venue for events of all types. The space at AAC can stand on its own, but when you add the expansive outdoor patio overlooking the golf course, a wedding or event at Alpharetta Athletic Club is sure to impress your guests and create cherished memories for years to come. Alpharetta Athletic Club offers an on-staff experienced event coordinator that will help plan event details, as well as, be on site the day of your event. Packages and customizable catering options are available for budgets of all types. Alpharetta Athletic Club also offers golfing options, board room space including AV equipment and luncheon options for event guests.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
3430 Highway Nine North Alpharetta, GA 30004
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(770) 475-2300 x 104 www.ALPHARETTAAC.COm EVENTS@ALPHARETTAAC.COm
72 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
28,000 2 5-250
onsite catering INCLuDES: dance floor, chairs, Tables, linens, glassware, flatware, plates, cake cutting fee, servers, Bartenders, set up and Breakdown PARkING: 250 parking spaces, valet available SPECIAL fEATuRES: Indoor and outdoor space, golf course view, close to hotels, restaurants and mall CATERING:
COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
venue guIde
ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
10,000 14 10 - 500
select from the best in atlanta with our approved caterers. INCLuDES: guests admission and use of the garden, on-site maintenence and security. PARkING: parking facility managed by lanier parking. pre-paid and valet available. SPECIAL fEATuRES: Indoor and outdoor event capabilities, beautiful gardens, conservatory housing the country’s foremost permanent orchid collection, spectacular 600 foot long canopy walk through the trees CATERING:
Imagine sweeping beds of fragrant flowers, the panorama of the Midtown skyline and a world-class orchid center as the backdrop for your special day. Renowned plant collections, beautiful displays, continually changing seasons and spectacular exhibitions make the Atlanta Botanical Garden the most beautiful place in town to host your event. An urban oasis in Midtown, the Garden includes 30 acres of outdoor gardens, an award-winning children’s garden, the serene Storza Woods with its unique Canopy Walk, and the new innovative Edible Garden and Outdoor Kitchen. Its “gardens under glass” include the Fuqua Conservatory, an organic biosphere and home to important collections of tropical palms and conifers; and the Fuqua Orchid Center, with the foremost collection of species orchids in the United States. The staff’s conservation work includes wetland preservation and carnivorous plant bogs across the Southeast as well as endangered species of amphibians from around the world. Rental fees directly support the Garden’s mission to develop and maintain plant collections for display, education, research, conservation and enjoyment. The Garden shines bright each Holiday season with Garden Lights, Holiday Nights! Hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights illuminate spectacular displays throughout the Garden. Book early for holiday celebrations. To be a part of this rich Atlanta history, visit www.gardenevents.org or call 404-591-1585 to schedule a consultation.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 1345 Piedmont Avenue Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 591-1585 www.GARDENEVENTS.ORG mVICTORIO@ATLANTAbOTANICALGARDEN.ORG
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 73
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
DUNWOODY
ATLANTA PERIMETER HOTEL & SUITES
Atlanta Perimeter Hotel & Suites is a residential-style boutique hotel conveniently located in an upscale commerce and shopping district. Adjacent to Perimeter Mall and surrounded by mature dogwood trees, we’re just minutes from downtown Atlanta. A Boutique style of venue, specializing in receptions of 30 to 200 guests. With our newly renovated Ballroom and upscale accommodation, the surroundings compliment your big day. The spacious, well-lit foyer exemplifies the stylish clean lines throughout the hotel. Gather with others for fine meals and Southern hospitality at the FGT Bar|Café, or find tranquility under the Georgian sun at the large pool and soothing hot tub. Every guest room has a private balcony—a refreshing addition when you’re away from home—and wireless High Speed Internet Access. Drift away to sleep on a featherbed mattress with crisp white 350-threadcount sheets, a down duvet, and plump pillows. When you are planning a celebration, Atlanta Perimeter Hotel & Suites makes the process seamless, stylish and stress-free. Whether it’s a Wedding, Birthday Party, Bar mitzvah, Bat mitzvah, Family & Class Reunion, Fundraisers, Commitment Ceremonies or you just want to have a Party, we can help you plan the perfect event. Our dedicated Director of Celebration will ensure every detail of your dream comes true.
CONTACT 111 Perimeter Center West Atlanta, GA 30346
(770) 396-6800 ATLANTAPERImETERHOTELANDSuITES.COm
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
CATERING: sumptous meals are designed by our executive chef, stacey vande Wetering. INCLuDES: private reception area, a room for Bride & groom, specal discount rates for family & friends, Table linens. PARkING: ample complimentary self parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: contemporary and modern surroundings with lanscaped gardens for beautiful photographs.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
GmAPHS@STARwOODHOTELS.COm
74 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
3,600 12 300
HOTEL
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
GWINNETT
venue guIde
BEAR’S BEST
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
3,175 3 175
onsite caterer or licensed vendor INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, glassware, setup/breakdown fees, wedgewood china PARkING: ample free parking, valet available SPECIAL fEATuRES: golf course view, located in gated community with security, located 35 minutes from atlanta CATERING:
Located in the upscale gated community of Edinburgh, Bear’s Best is a high-end daily fee course focused on corporate entertaining, golf outings, and providing the experience of a luxurious private club at a public facility. Jack Nicklaus selected 18 holes from his more than 200 course designs worldwide and put them into one extraordinary round of golf at Bear’s Best Atlanta. Bear’s Best Atlanta creates the perfect atmosphere for golf outings, weddings, meetings and banquets. Our contemporary style banquet room features a double-sided granite buffet and a terrace with rocking chairs overlooking the golf range and offering awe-inspiring views of the sunset. Our Star Certified Servers and award winning culinary staff will meet and exceed any expectations that you or your guests may have, and provide you with the latest in menu selections and presentations. Weddings on the golf course are available for intimate events, although certain fees and restrictions do apply. We would be delighted to alleviate a great deal of stress from your hands to ensure your event goes according to plan. Our wedding packages include a variety of menu selections and may be customized to accommodate your specific needs and budget. The package also includes set-up and breakdown, skirted tables, linens, service-ware, flatware, glassware & basic centerpieces. Other options are available at an additional cost to rent. Combining quality, design, and unparalleled services, Bear’s Best Atlanta is sure to become your favorite getaway for all of your corporate and leisure gatherings.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
CONTACT 5342 Aldeburgh Drive Suwanee, GA 30024
(678) 714-2582 www.bEARbEST.COm mIkE.SELk@OuRCLub.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 75
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
DULUTH
BERKELEY HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
Founded in 1964, Berkeley Hills is proud of the friendly and relaxed, yet refined and comfortably elegant country club it provides its clients. The club décor is rich and warm featuring one of a kind furnishings that lend to its unique charm. The club quarters feature three private event rooms that may be used separately or combined for your private luncheon, dinner, wedding reception, or rehearsal dinner. All three rooms provide access to our covered terrace that overlook our manicured Golf Course. Enjoy your corporate golf outing on a course that was designed into a natural topography of rolling hills and natural ravines and the course’s Bermuda grass fairways that rise and fall through forests of hardwood and pine while bright white bunkers protect what are arguably the best Champion Ultradwarf Bermuda grass greens in North Georgia. Berkeley Hills is committed to providing the finest culinary experience. Our professional staff boasts both an executive chef and executive sous chef along with a professional event planner to help execute your event down to the very last detail.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
2300 Pond Road Duluth, GA 30096
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(770) 448-8353 www.bERkELEyHILLSCC.ORG AHOwARD@bERkELEyHILLSCC.ORG
76 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
6,000 3 10 - 300
onsite catering Tables, chairs, linens, china, silverware, glassware, dancefloor PARkING: ample free parking, valet available for additional fee SPECIAL fEATuRES: golf course views, outdoor terrace seating, outdoor and indoor ceremony site CATERING: INCLuDES:
COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
venue guIde
BILTMORE BALLROOMS
main image by www.drewnewman.us, Top left image by critsey rowe photography, bottom left image by Wittmayer photographers
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
17,000 2 2,000
preferred catering list, but outside caterers permitted with approval, on site bar service available INCLuDES: Tables, banquet chairs, stage, security, event manager PARkING: parking garage on site, valet available SPECIAL fEATuRES: discounted friday and sunday rates, hardwood floors, beautifully landscaped courtyard, covered outdoor terraces, original handcrafted plaster ceilings, restored crystal chandeliers, palladian windows, and Tennessee marble floors. CATERING:
Built in 1924, The Biltmore Hotel was the focal point of Atlanta’s business and social life for almost sixty years. Once publicized as “The South’s Supreme Hotel”, The Biltmore closed its doors in 1982, following changes in ownership and years of steady decline. After sixteen years of neglect and abandonment, The Biltmore underwent a total renovation in 1999. With the renovation of The Georgian and Imperial Ballrooms, and now listed on The National Register of Historic Places, The Biltmore quickly recaptured its standing as one of the social and business epicenters of Atlanta. Featuring original handcrafted plaster relief ceilings, restored crystal chandeliers, Palladian windows, hardwood floors, and Tennessee marble floors, the special event spaces can accommodate groups from 50 to 2,000 guests.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
BALLROO M
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 817 West Peachtree Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30308
(404) 962-8704 www.NOVAREEVENTS.COm CHOPSON@NOVAREEVENTS.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 77
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
NORTHEAST ATLANTA
BRADFORD HOUSE & GARDENS
This charming Southern Plantation style home, nestled at the back of 7 acres of natural Georgian beauty, is the ultimate destination for your intimate, yet elegant Wedding celebration. Beautiful French doors, on either side of the fireplace, open to a covered porch, where the party can overflow to our picturesque garden. The second floor houses the bride’s and groom’s suites where they and their attendants can dress and relax while waiting for the Big Event. The house is bright and airy and the garden’s outdoor “rooms” provide serene sitting areas with a beautiful, lighted gazebo. A winding landscaped walkway leads to the 1800-square-foot covered Gazebo which will accommodate up to 200 guests. Photo opportunities abound at Bradford House and Gardens. Our award-winning venue is noted for its excellent cuisine and exemplary service. Bradford House and Gardens specializes in creating a worry-free atmosphere for the bride, ensuring she will truly enjoy her wedding day. We do this by offering a wide range of flexible packages that include a team of some of the industry’s best vendors. We also provide “a la carte” catering and services to meet any budget. We are located approximately 40 minutes from Downtown Atlanta. Just three minutes away from Atlanta’s popular Lake Resort, Lake Lanier Islands, your guests can enjoy all of the amenities this beautiful Resort has to offer, from boating to golf to family fun at the water park. The Mall of Georgia, another popular Atlanta attraction, is a mere 8 miles from our facility with over 225 of the most exciting stores in the Southeast.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
6648 McEver Road Flowery Branch, GA 30542
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(770) 967-7821 www.bRADfORDHOuSEANDGARDENS.COm DkNIGHT@bRADfORDHOuSEANDGARDENS.COm
78 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
4,200 1 200
CATERING: on-site catering. off-site caterers allowed under certain circumstances INCLuDES: use of entire facility, chairs, tables, linens, wedding director PARkING: complimentary paved parking for approximately 100 vehicles SPECIAL fEATuRES: Indoor and outdoor weddings, covered outdoor gazebo accommodates 200 guests, all-inclusive packages, secluded, yet located 5 minutes from I-985
OUTDOOR
MANSION
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BUCKHEAD
venue guIde
THE BUCKHEAD CLUB
main and top left images by Bob Butler, bottom left image by sean randall
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
7,442 9 300
exclusive, onsite catering by our award-Winning chef, custom designed menus INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, dance floor, votive candles, cake riser, audio visual equipment, full service staff PARkING: valet or self, on property SPECIAL fEATuRES: located on the 26th floor of sovereign Building with unparalleled panoramic views. surrounded by Buckhead hotels and shopping. entire club is available for exclusive use on saturday daytime and sundays. CATERING:
Ideally located in the heart of Buckhead, adorning the top of the Sovereign Building at 3344 Peachtree, the Buckhead Club offers a unique blend of gourmet cuisine, impeccable service, and spectacular views of both Buckhead and the Atlanta skyline. Whether it is a wedding reception or a corporate function, the Private Events Department is prepared to assist you with every aspect of the planning process. The Buckhead Club is a full service catering facility that offers exceptional bar and cocktail service, in addition to a variety of social and corporate amenity packages. Our partnerships with surrounding hotels and other ClubCorp properties provide you with a multitude of options for your guests. The Private Events Department is also available to assist with custom menu creation, decor arrangements, and cohesive theme production. The Buckhead Club is the ideal venue for corporate events, wedding rehearsal dinners and intimate weddings. We invite you to host your event in our private club setting, surrounded by stateof-the-art facilities and breathtaking views of Atlanta! Reference this ad to receive a complimentary champagne toast with your event.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
BALLROO M
URBAN
CONTACT 3344 Peachtree Rd NE, 26th Floor Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 262-2262 www.buCkHEAD-CLub.COm CONTACTuS@buCkHEAD-CLub.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 79
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
BUCKHEAD
THE BUCKHEAD THEATRE
main and top right image by www.drewnewman.us, bottorm right image by Wittmayer photographers
8,000 3 2,000
Central to Buckhead nightlife for more than 80 years, The Buckhead Theatre is steeped in the lively spirit of its history, yet fully modernized to accommodate today’s multifaceted forms of entertainment and special events. The restored Spanish-Baroque architecture of the original 1930’s movie house jewel is a seamless historical counterpoint to the updated state of the art lighting and sound system, modern catering kitchen, event space and other amenities.
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE:
Beyond the theatre’s 10-foot LED marquee, original Art Deco doorways lead from the lobby and bar lounge into the 8,000 square foot main theatre and orchestra and loge spaces. The Buckhead Theatre’s revitalized interior plan increases flexibility for a variety of events from intimate dinners and meetings to large receptions.
CATERING: preferred list of caterers INCLuDES: 20 - 6’ tables, 20 60” round tables, 20 - highboys or 36” round tables, 600 chairs access to the marquee flat screen Tevelvisions PARkING: valet or self park available SPECIAL fEATuRES: 10’ led marquee, green room with 3 dressing rooms and 1 bathroom, 2 loading docks, balcony seating, built in bars, flat screen Tv’s
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
3110 Roswell Road Atlanta, GA 30305
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 891-6170 www.NOVAREEVENTS.COm kzImmER@NOVAREEVENTS.COm
80 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
# Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
THE ART S
FUNCTION FACILITY
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
NORTHWEST ATLANTA
venue guIde
COBB GALLERIA CENTRE & COBB ENERGY CENTRE
320,000 27 11 - 11,000
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
exclusive, in-house catering; kosher-style, organic and vegan cuisine are available. INCLuDES: dance floor, tables, chairs, china, glasses, silverware, linens PARkING: 2,000 complimentary spaces at cobb galleria centre, 1,000 spaces at cobb energy centre SPECIAL fEATuRES: cobb energy centre stage, lobby and terrace available for special events; ballroom led lights located within ceiling soffits are programmable to emit the glow of 64 different colors. CATERING:
Cobb Galleria Centre and Energy Performing Arts Centre offer a large portfolio of event spaces to suit your needs. May we suggest the John A. Williams Ballroom, a classic, elegant setting for your event, located one level above the Cobb Galleria Centre Grand Rotunda. The beautifully decorated reception area features floor-to-ceiling windows with an open-air terrace, 24-foot-high ceilings and a separate dressing room. The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre’s Kessel D. Stelling Jr. Ballroom is one of metropolitan Atlanta’s most prestigious venues for social events. Uniting to create an ambiance of radiance and warmth are the Ballroom’s rich wood finishes, embellished wall coverings and nine shimmering custom chandeliers. Nothing bespeaks “special occasion” like the majestic Cobb Energy Centre Lobby, with two grand staircases, specially designed Murano-glass chandeliers, and walls of Venetian plaster. The Lobby’s three levels can accommodate cocktail receptions and feature a view of the downtown skyline. For a truly theatrical event, consider the John A. Williams Theatre stage or the Centre’s 3,100-square-foot outdoor Terrace. For the intimate celebration, The Gallery just might be the perfect fit. With its finely appointed décor, inlaid tile floor and dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, The Gallery invites you to indulge your romantic flair in radiant, cozy surroundings. Nothing helps you set the mood and distinguish the occasion like an accomplished catering partner. Supported by state-of-the-art kitchens, the artistry of experienced culinary maestros, and the services of a crisp-and-polished wait staff, plan your special event supremely confident that the Cobb Galleria Centre and Cobb Energy Centre will be an extension of your creativity and good taste.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
FUNCTION FACILITY
BALLROO M
CONTACT Two Galleria Parkway Atlanta, GA 30339
(770) 955-8000 www.ATLANTAGALLERIAmEETINGS.COm EVENTS@CObbGALLERIA.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 81
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
DOWNTOWN ATLANTA
THE COMMERCE CLUB
Images by Ben vigil photographers
The Commerce Club provides its guests with a distinguished setting conducive to business and social entertaining. The Club is located in the vibrant core of Atlanta’s downtown area in the most prestigious address in metropolitan Atlanta – the award winning One Ninety One Peachtree Tower, with sweeping views of the Atlanta Metro area. The Commerce Club has committed itself to providing the finest dining experience and most impeccable service. Whether you are planning a weekly business meeting, a special Board of Directors dinner, a large cocktail reception or even a wedding reception, the staff will assist you in every detail in planning the perfect event. While our professional Chef has created a menu of gourmet selections that highlight American and Continental regional specialties, please keep in mind that we gladly customize menus to fit your personal tastes and desires. Host a fabulous event and enjoy the fruits of your labor along with your guests. Our private event directors help with everything from food to decorations to entertainment, and our staff makes sure your event is truly memorable. No matter what the event, we’ll create the appropriate mood and take the stress out of hosting.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
191 Peachtree Street, 49th Floor Atlanta, GA 30303
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 222-0191 www.COmmERCECLubATLANTA.COm CONTACTuS@COmmERCECLubATLANTA.COm
82 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
3,560 8 up to 500
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
CATERING: onsite food and beverage INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, and house linens PARkING: ample parking, valet available SPECIAL fEATuRES: Ballroom located on the 49th floor, Incredible views of metro atlanta, luxurious atmosphere, crystal chandeliers, large and small private banquet space, wine room
URBAN
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
STOCKBRIDGE
venue guIde
EAGLE’S LANDING COUNTRY CLUB
Images by Belletti photography
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy: CATERING: onsite
10,000 6 600
caterer INCLuDES: all hardware, tables, chairs, linens, service staff, etc. PARkING: complimentary SPECIAL fEATuRES: lakeside view of the golf course. outdoor terrace seating. outdoor and indoor ceremony sites. Beautiful plantation style club house with interior circular staircase
Eagle’s Landing Country Club is an estately clubhouse specializing in wedding receptions, social occasions, and private events located on the southern crescent of Atlanta in the exclusive Eagle’s Landing Community. The architecture exemplifies Georgian charm and savoir-faire from its warm brick exterior and welcoming verandas to a crowning cupola that looks down on some of the most beautiful scenery and wildlife in the state. Downtown Atlanta may only be a 20-minute drive away, but the serenity of Eagle’s Landing feels like a world apart. Our Grand Ballroom can accommodate a seated affair of up to 350 guests, and an hors d’oeuvres-style reception of up to 500. The Landing will accommodate a more intimate gathering. The croquet lawn in front of our magnificent clubhouse is the perfect setting for your wedding ceremony. The challenging 27-hole championship course, designed by Tom Fazio, is the centerpiece of the Club’s outstanding facilities and provides the perfect landscape for golf outings, tournaments and group events. Our staff is committed to providing the finest food and catering service to be found in any private club. Let us create a perfect experience for a perfect day. We will set the stage for your anniversary, birthday, or graduation party as well as Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, rehearsal dinners, business and holiday functions. What better way to relax and enjoy your guest’s company while you feel the genuine warmth of the South’s famous hospitality? Located 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta and close to Hartsfield International Airport, this is the perfect location to host important corporate clients and associates.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
CONTACT 100 Eagle’s Landing Way Stockbridge, GA 30281
(770) 389-2000 www.EAGLESLANDINGCC.COm mICHELLE.CALDERON@OuRCLub.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 83
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
WEST MIDTOWN
THE FOUNDRY AT PURITAN MILL
main image by www.drewnewman.us, bottorm right image by Wittmayer photographers, top right image by 6 of four
The Foundry is an historic warehouse event space which was owned and operated by the Puritan Soap Company from 1921 to 1996. It has since been restored and is now a premiere venue in Atlanta for hosting both large and small events. The Foundry at Puritan Mill has a metropolitan tone with extraordinary window walls on three sides, tall original pine ceilings and exposed brick walls which can be the perfect backdrop for your event. The Foundry has the flexibility to seat up to 800 guests or can be transformed to accommodate smaller groups. Another benefit is our separate pre-function gallery space. We have an uninterrupted floor plan that can create an open environment or can easily be divided by our airy, sheer ivory curtains. Another bonus of The Foundry is our 250 parking spaces for you to use during evening events or we can bring in valet services.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd, NW Atlanta, GA 30318
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 962-8702 www.NOVAREEVENTS.COm kSTHILAIRE@NOVAREEVENTS.COm
84 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
12,000 2 800
list of preferred caterers INCLuDES: seating for up to 250 guests, 160’ of cream sheer drape, 250 parking spaces, security guard and event manager PARkING: complimentary for up to 250 cars SPECIAL fEATuRES: original wood ceilings and concrete floors that have been lovingly restored along with brick walls, windows and cream drape to soften the room CATERING:
FUNCTION FACILITY
URBAN
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
venue guIde
THE FOX THEATRE
Top left photo by picture This! photography, bottom left and main photo by drew newman photographers
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
11,462 3 25 - 1,100
properly licensed and insured caterers are welcome. discounts available with use of our preferred or featured caterer. INCLuDES: support staff for nine consecutive hours, a uniformed police officer for the event, tables, chairs, risers, dance floor and cleaning. PARkING: reserved parking can be arranged, payable in advance, based on availability. SPECIAL fEATuRES: historic landmark, marquee, outdoor Terrace, close to hotels, pictures in Theatre CATERING:
Combined with the Fox Theatre’s renowned customer service, the Landmarks Lounge will be the perfect pre- and post-show destination for that very special client. The plush environment will also accommodate private receptions for an entire evening, such as intimate dinners, wine-tastings, or any other “Arabian Night” your imagination can provide. Step back in time to the opulent splendor of the Egyptian Pharaohs or into the mystique of a Middle Eastern palace. The Egyptian Ballroom and the Grand Salon are lavishly decorated with sweeping columns and ornamentation creating the perfect setting for wedding and receptions, corporate events and association functions. From a luncheon or dinner for 50 guests, to a pre-show cocktail party, or a post-show dessert extravaganza for 1,100 guests, we have set the stage with elegance and fantasy. The Theatre, Egyptian Ballroom, Grand Salon, and Terrace have been completely renovated to their original grandeur. The Fox provides complete beverage service, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and we can suggest musicians, caterers, and other supporting cast. The Grand Salon includes the use of a beautiful outdoor terrace. Romantically lit and always enjoying a lovely breeze, the terrace provides your guests with both indoor and outdoor areas during your event. The Landmark Lounge, a 30-person hospitality suite, will provide guests with the ultimate 1929 movie palace experience. Red velvet banquets, Moroccan tiled floors and walls, gold leaf, and mosaics all envelop your guests the moment they enter.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
BALLROO M
THE ART S
CONTACT 660 Peachtree Street, NE Atlanta, GA 30308
(404) 881-2100 www.fOxTHEATRE.ORG jENNIfER@fOxTHEATRE.ORG
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 85
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
CHATTAHOOCHEE HILL COUNTRY
FOXHALL RESORT & SPORTING CLUB
Located just 35 minutes from downtown Atlanta and 20 minutes west of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Foxhall Resort & Sporting Club is an 1,100 acre sanctuary situated majestically along 2 miles of the Chattahoochee River and includes 16 lakes, over 15 miles of riding and hiking trails, a 20-stall stone stable and world-class equestrian and sporting club facilities. Wedding and special event opportunities abound on the property, including a 4,800 square foot ballroom in the Legacy Lookout Club, with sweeping views of Legacy Lake, polo fields and the river, and event lawns for another 500 guests; a 2,000 square foot glass-enclosed Grand Pavilion with full kitchen; stacked stone fireplace and patio; multiple event lawns; additional event pavilions, as well as the Boat House and Clubhouse on Lunker Lake. For intimate gatherings of just a few, to large weddings and parties for thousands, Foxhall provides a variety of views and venues to create the ideal setting for any special event. Our Wedding and Event Specialists are here to assist and serve you with the planning and details of your gathering. Choose from a variety of wedding and special event packages, or allow us to work with you to craft your own personalized menus and plans. Foxhall provides on-site culinary operations, or you may select your own caterer from our Preferred Partners. Please contact our Events Team at 770.489.4380 or via email at info@foxhallresort.com. Your most memorable event can be created at Foxhall Resort & Sporting Club.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
8000 Capps Ferry Road Atlanta, GA 30135
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(770) 489-4380 www.fOxHALLSPORTINGCLub.COm INfO@fOxHALLRESORT.COm
86 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
10,000 12 5 - 50,000
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
on-site or preferred catering partners available, custom menus INCLuDES: White folding chairs for wedding ceremonies; tables and chairs for banquet functions PARkING: unlimited complimentary parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: event lawns, lake views, polo fields and river views; lawn games; rehearsal dinners; bridesmaid and groomsman activities; ballrooms and intimate gathering areas. close proximity to airport and area hotels. CATERING:
OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MARIETTA
venue guIde
GARDENS AT KENNESAW MOUNTAIN
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
3,600 5 200 - 500
onsite: parsley’s catering, a certified Two star green restaurant® featuring local & organic cuisine INCLuDES: six hour use of the entire venue, garden ceremony, chiavari chairs, ivory linen, uniformed staff, soft bar PARkING: complimentary parking / valet available SPECIAL fEATuRES: nestled at the base of historic kennesaw mountain, very private, beautiful garden, covered pavilion, spacious banquet hall, local and organic catering options available CATERING:
The Gardens at Kennesaw Mountain is North Atlanta’s premier wedding and event facility. Located on four idyllic acres, the venue is a unique and intimate setting perfect for your wedding reception and ceremony. Between our impeccably manicured gardens, outdoor covered pavilion and indoor ballroom, your options are endless! Sophisticated and Stylish, the Grand Ballroom is the perfect location for your wedding reception. The Grand Ballroom features: window lined walls, modern sconces, brilliant chandeliers, a large parquet dance floor and is enveloped by two manicured gardens. The Garden and Gazebo area is where we host wedding ceremonies amongst seasonal flowers and under the shade of large trees. The pavilion offers a peaceful and serene setting for any outdoor celebration, cocktail reception or quiet reflection with family and friends. The Hunt House is a charming and rustic tabby style home reminiscent of graceful old Savannah, or Charleston. Built in the late 19th century, it boasts original windows and panes, a double-hung front door, heart-of-pine flooring and two wood-burning fireplaces. The Hunt House is ideal for Rehearsal Dinners, Bridal Parties, Wine Tastings or any intimate gathering. At the Gardens, we offer wedding packages and a la carte services that can be customized for your special occasion. Please call today to see how we can make your wedding Naturally Elegant!
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 1127 White Cir NW Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 396-5361 www.GARDENSATkENNESAw.COm LAuRA@PARSLEyS.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 87
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
AIRPORT
ATLANTA AIRPORT GATEWAY MARRIOTT
Host a celebration to remember at Atlanta Airport Marriott® Gateway, the event destination that connects you with everything you need to create an unforgettable experience for your guests. Whether you’re planning an elegant wedding, intimate get-together, family reunion or the social event of the year, our selection of versatile function space makes it all possible. Set the stage for a magical evening with the sparkling chandeliers and textured walls in our 12,000 square-foot Gateway Ballroom, the largest hotel ballroom in the airport area. Hold your pre- and post-event functions in our Gateway Ballroom Foyer, an ideal place to mix and mingle. Or host an event that reflects your unique sense of style with over 21,000 square-feet of flexible event space at your disposal. Allow our professional event planners to handle every detail as they help you execute the perfect themed party, banquet or family gathering. Satisfy even the most discerning palates with customized menus of exquisite cuisine from our full-service culinary team. Our Certified Wedding Planners and catering staff’s superior level of expertise and flexibility provides plenty of event options to work within your budget. Put your guests in the mood to celebrate with our accessible airport location and complimentary ATL SkyTrain transportation from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Thanks to our special group rates and packages, it’s convenient and affordable for everybody to get together. And with 403 high-tech, soundproof guest rooms; including 18 suites, there’s room for everyone on your guest list. It’s all designed to make planning easy for you, while providing an experience they won’t forget.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
2020 Convention Center Concourse Atlanta, GA 30337
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 763-1544 ATLANTAAIRPORTmARRIOTTGATEwAy.COm CASSANDRA.PIERCE2@mARRIOTT.COm
88 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
22,000 6 10 - 800
CATERING: onsite catering available with customized menus, offsite catering approved for specialty events INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, dancefloor, in-house staging, white silk floral centerpieces PARkING: valet or self park available SPECIAL fEATuRES: connected to atlanta airport via 2 minute free ride on the aTl skytrain, leed certified, spacious suites, beautiful event space
BALLROO M
HOTEL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
venue guIde
GEORGIAN TERRACE HOTEL
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
9,000 3 10 - 750
onsite custom designed menus including organic and vegan INCLuDES: chairs, tables, dance floors, staging PARkING: valet or self on property SPECIAL fEATuRES: historic property, crystal chandeliers, classic charm, floor to ceiling windows, onsite rehearsal dinner venue: livingston restaurant CATERING:
Atlanta’s Modern Classic located in the heart of the city’s business and cultural district, The Georgian Terrace Hotel is a midtown icon familiar to anyone who knows Atlanta. The Georgian Terrace delivers a brand of service rarely found, even in the south. We don’t just fulfill, we anticipate needs, and with a host of new and improved amenities we aim to exceed our guest’s expectations. Once you take a look at all we have to offer, from our three classic ballrooms to our spacious penthouse suites to our award-winning catering, you’ll start to relax. A midtown icon located across the street from the Fox Theatre and minutes from public transportation and the airport, The Georgian Terrace has been the site of Atlanta celebrations since 1911. In fact, the hotel hosted one of the city’s most memorable events, the premier gala for Gone With the Wind. A modern hotel with a grand history, The Georgian Terrace is accommodating and romantic. We’re also home to Livingston Restaurant + Bar, a one-of-a-kind venue for private and semi-private dining with a kitchen admired for its fresh, innovative American cooking. Romantic, historic, artistic and fun, with wonderful architectural elements, practical amenities and bend-over-backwards service, The Georgian Terrace Hotel has it all. Planning to stay in Atlanta for your celebration or wedding? Our spacious penthouse suites are modern oases, beautifully appointed and offering great cityscapes.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon BALLROO M
HOTEL
CONTACT 659 Peachtree Street NE Atlanta, GA 30308
(404) 897-1991 www.THEGEORGIANTERRACE.COm DkICkLIGHTER@THEGEORGIANTERRACE.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 89
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
ATHENS
THE GEORGIA CLUB
Bottorm right image by melissa Tuck photography
After you have answered his question, and before you say “I do”, let us join the excitement of planning your big day. The amenities and facilities at The Georgia Club create a beautiful intimate setting featuring so many unique options there is simply not another wedding venue like it! The Georgia Club offers a romantic two room suite that overlooks the club grounds. Imagine spending a restful morning of pampering, preparation, and joyful anticipation in the well-appointed VIP Suite, away from the hustle and bustle, and only yards from your ceremony. You will walk down the aisle through our beautiful wedding garden surrounded by your friends and family. Enveloped among a beautiful landscape you will proceed up to our wedding pavilion where your love awaits. A ceremony and reception at The Georgia Club is sure to create a memory to last a lifetime. Once you have said ‘I do’ it is time to dance the night away as you celebrate in our grand ballroom. Large enough to hold up to 300 guests, the ballroom allows for a customized floor plan especially for you. Designed with a beautiful elegance, our decor matches infinite color schemes and concepts. Choose delectable cuisine from our fantastic wedding packages that have been created by our experienced culinary team. If a smaller, intimate affair is more your taste, host your reception and ceremony at our classically designed Village Hall, complete with cathedral ceilings and offering its own unique ceremony lawn. We invite you to tour our property and meet our trained professional staff that will help you plan, host, and enjoy the day you have always imagined.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
1050 Chancellors Dr. Statham, GA 30666
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(770) 725-3112 www.THEGEORGIACLub.COm DTIbbLES@THEGEORGIACLub.COm
90 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
5,129 6 300
onsite catering, wedding packages available, custom menus upon request INCLuDES: rental fee includes set up and break down, linen, tables and seating, event staff, china, glassware and silverware PARkING: complimentary SPECIAL fEATuRES: Beautiful event lawns, gorgeous gardens and landscape; room layout can be customized for your group; two room vIp suite on property and several room and veranda options for events of all types CATERING:
BALLROO M
COUNTRY CLU B
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BUCKHEAD
venue guIde
GRAND HYATT ATLANTA
Images on left by mark silverstein
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
30,000 24 1,200
onsite catering with customized menus, offsite approved for specialty events, akc dedicated kosher kitchen INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, hotel linen, dance floor, staging, podium, tables numbers, stations, votive candles and a designated banquet captain…. PARkING: valet or self parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: newly renovated guest rooms and suites, japanese garden with cascading waterfalls and atlanta’s most elegant ballrooms CATERING:
Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead is set within the upscale uptown neighborhood of Buckhead. Experience Atlanta’s legendary Southern hospitality. Spacious, renovated guestrooms include irresistible Hyatt Grand BedsTM, state-of-the-art fiber-optic Internet and sleek flat screen HDTVs. Enjoy views of our Japanese Zen Garden at Onyx at the Grand, savor renowned Southern cuisine at Cassis or treat colleagues and guests to the culinary expertise of the outstanding catering staff. Grand Hyatt Atlanta is located in the city’s most exclusive neighborhood, Buckhead, and surrounded by popular area attractions, including the World of Coca-Cola Museum, the Georgia Aquarium, High Museum and Atlanta History Center. Many of these attractions are easily accessible using convenient MARTA transportation. We are walking distance to luxury shopping at Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza Malls. Travel to this elegant Buckhead hotel is seamless; Hartsfield Jackson International Airport is just 20 minutes away. Discover the best of everything within your reach at Grand Hyatt Atlanta. Whether you’re entertaining 400 or 20, Grand Hyatt Atlanta offers a beautiful wedding & special event venue with superior customer service. Grand Hyatt Atlanta’s Catering Manager Terry Saxe is prepared to assist with the arrangements and coordinate all the details with the hotels experienced staff. Executive Chef Thomas McKeown’s creativity, expertise and customized menu creations will elevate your guests culinary experience.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
BALLROO M
HOTEL
CONTACT 3300 Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30305
(404) 364-3843 www.GRANDATLANTA.HyATT.COm TERRy.SAxE@HyATT.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 91
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
BUCKHEAD
JW MARRIOTT ATLANTA BUCKHEAD
Indulge your guests with unparalleled luxury in the uniquely elegant setting and newly refined spaces at JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead. Inside the exclusive Buckhead neighborhood of Atlanta, we’ve carefully crafted a sophisticated environment, perfect for your most important occasion. From our incredible surroundings and magnificent event spaces to the breathtaking results of our $10 Million modernization and seamless, personalized service, we are singularly focused on providing everything you need for a memorable event. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, allow our professional event specialists to create an elegant banquet for up to 500 guests in our breathtaking 9,000 square-foot Phoenix Ballroom. Hold an unforgettable banquet while our innovative culinary team prepares a delectable menu tailored to your tastes. Or plan for memories that last a lifetime in our Grand Foyer with our picture-perfect Grand Staircase, a striking backdrop for a fabulous cocktail party or reception. And with award-winning service from our highly attentive staff and innovative event designs from our certified decorating experts, we ensure a flawlessly orchestrated experience, with every detail fine-tuned. Then immerse yourself in modern luxury and comfort in our 371 newly refreshed guest rooms and suites. With state-of-the-art amenities, luxurious linens, plush terry bathrobes and exquisite spaces to relax and unwind, we are confident that even the most discerning guests will find it to be a truly welcoming environment.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
3300 Lenox Rd. NE Atlanta, GA 30326
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 262-3344 www.jwmARRIOTTbuCkHEAD.COm mEGHAN.RuGER@mARRIOTT.COm
92 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
18,000 5 10 - 500
onsite catering available with customized menus, offsite catering approved for specialty events INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, dancefloor, in-house staging PARkING: valet or self parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: luxury full service with private event space, world class shopping in walking distance, full fitness center with steam and sauna rooms, close proximity to marTa transit system CATERING:
BALLROO M
HOTEL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
ALPHARETTA
venue guIde
MANOR GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
5,049 1 200
onsite catering, wedding packages, customized menus INCLuDES: rental includes room/ space, linen and glassware, set up and break down PARkING: complimentary SPECIAL fEATuRES: outdoor event lawn, several rooms options to fit the size of your group, beautiful outdoor views including golf course and north ga mountains. Beautiful stone work and decor CATERING:
Picture your guests driving up to an enchanted Clubhouse featuring amazing stone detail befitting of a European castle. As they arrive, they are greeted with a customized beverage and shown to their seat, where they take in the beautiful North Georgia Mountains. The time approaches and your husband-to-be takes center stage, surrounded by beautiful scenery and elaborate stone masonry. It is now time for you to walk down the aisle and say ‘I Do.’ The Clubhouse at The Manor Golf and Country Club is truly majestic, featuring, a scenic ceremony lawn. An event at The Manor Golf and Country Club will never be forgotten. Now that you have tied the knot, it is time to celebrate! Your guests will proceed into our lavishly designed Clubhouse, to dance the night away. The architecturally timeless European design of the Manor Clubhouse combines rich, old-world details, with modern-day comforts. Your guests will enjoy every cozy fireplace and large picture window as they help you celebrate this special moment. From picking out the perfect combination of design, drinks, and entrées, we will help you plan the celebration of your new life together. The Manor offers specialized packages and menus for receptions and special events that offer a wide variety of selection. Special requests are always welcomed by The Manor’s skilled culinary team whose years of training will make your ideas flourish. With several well-appointed rooms to suit the size of your event, we invite you to tour The Manor Golf and Country Club for your upcoming special day.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon BALLROO M
COUNTRY CLU B
CONTACT 15951 Manor Club Drive Alpharetta, GA 30004
(678) 366-3886 www.mANORGCC.COm RSAbAT@mANORGCC.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 93
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
BUCKHEAD
MASON MURER
Mason Murer Fine Art is a gallery and special event space located near Midtown and Buckhead in Atlanta, Georgia, representing emerging and established artists from around the United States and the world. In May 2004, Atlanta art entrepreneur Mark Mason Karlson and real estate developer Glenn Murer joined forces to form Mason Murer Fine Art, Inc. Situated in a 24,000 square foot AIA Award winning space, Mason Murer Fine Art offers a variety of high quality contemporary art from regional, national and international artists. An art destination, Mason Murer can offer a number of distinct art experiences in a single visit. Mason Murer is Atlanta’s largest Art Gallery space and is also a leading venue for special events, corporate parties, social gatherings, charity galas and weddings. Mason Murer Fine Art allows for outside alcohol to be provided by you or a caterer of your choice. The main gallery space can comfortably seat 350 people with a stage and dance floor but is capable of maintaining an intimate feel for smaller groups as well. The entire use of the gallery has a capacity of 1,000 mingling. Gallery parking spaces are available, as is street parking. Nestled conveniently between Buckhead and Midtown, Mason Murer Fine Art is the only contemporary Atlanta art gallery of its kind and is a unique space for your upcoming event. Our sleek, expansive gallery space makes us ideal for weddings, corporate gatherings, galas, Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, auctions, fashion shows and holiday parties. Come in and visit us today!
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
199 Armour Drive Atlanta, GA 30321
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 879-1500 www.mASONmuRER.COm ASHLEy@mASONmuRER.COm
94 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
24,000 1 300 - 800
CATERING: client chosen licensed caterer INCLuDES: most tables and chairs (please see website for inventory), security and cleaning PARkING: ample free parking, valet available for additional fee SPECIAL fEATuRES: elegant, chic contemporary fine art gallery in the heart of atlanta. client’s own alcohol permitted with a licensed server. separate spaces for a wedding and a subsequent reception. perfect lay out for a Bar/Bat mitzvah
FUNCTION FACILITY
THE ART S
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DOWNTOWN
venue guIde
ATLANTA MARRIOTT MARQUIS
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
160,000 10 2,500
CATERING: catering onsite, custom designed menus INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, flatware, china, stemware, votive candles, dance floor, staging PARkING: valet parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: Three beautiful ballrooms, 50 story breathtaking atrium, The spa, 24 hour fitness center, indoor/outdoor pool and terrace, amazing skyline views
Make your next occasion truly special, and give your guests an experience they won’t forget at the stylish Atlanta Marriott® Marquis. With flexible, customizable spaces to choose from, it’s easy to find the perfect backdrop, no matter what your event. From weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, fundraisers, social events and more, our event areas provide options and intimacy. Three elegant ballrooms, each offer a unique design, gorgeous décor and flexible pre-function spaces to add to the experience. The breathtaking Marquis atrium is marked by the 50-foot color changing sail of Pulse, a classically cool cocktail lounge and centerpiece of the hotel. Dining reaches new heights at Sear specializing in fire-inspired steak, seafood and even desserts. Sear private dining rooms are also available. High Velocity, the next generation Sports Bar offers a semi private media room and glass enclosed Sweetwater lounge. If you’re looking for a unique event, Pulse Loft provides spectacular views of the hotel atrium. The 10th floor Skyline level boasts amazing skyline and atrium views. The outside poolside terrace complete with cabana and bar is another great option. Make a day of pampering and blissful indulgences part of the event with our full-service Spa. And don’t forget the guest rooms and suites, which offer incredible views and plenty of space for out-oftown guests, smaller gatherings or a place to get some rest after a day or evening socializing. It’s everything you need for a memorable and flawless event, in the heart of Atlanta, at the Atlanta Marriott® Marquis.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon BALLROO M
HOTEL
CONTACT 265 Peachtree Center Avenue Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 586-6079 www.ATLANTAmARquIS.COm LAuREN.m.SImmONS@mARRIOTT.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 95
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
ALPHARETTA
THE METROPOLITAN CLUB
The adaptable aesthetic of the Metropolitan Club provides many style options for a memorable event. With nearly 50 years of combined experience, our staff of skilled professionals will walk you through every step of planning and coordinating your event… Flawlessly revealing a one-of-a-kind experience. Enjoy the luxury of enough room! The ballroom and living room offer exceptional spaces easily modified for varied experiences. Classic architectural symmetry and a soft color palette enhance a floor plan designed to encourage momentum. Versatile enough for parties ranging from 50 to 1,000, the ballroom can formally seat up to 400 guests with ample space for several lavish food stations and a dramatic granite dance floor. Outside, the club’s intimate garden presents a lush, comfortable setting for a ceremony for up to 200 guests or cocktail party before dinner. Tradition is a framework, a reference, let it guide you to your personal style. If a tradition pleases you, include it... if not, traditions can be revised! There is an inherent beauty in the evidence of personal details even on a grand scale. Decisions that reflect your individuality are what makes a wedding special. At The Metropolitan Club, our commitment to you will be very evident from the beginning to the bubbles.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
5895 Windward Pkwy. Alpharetta, GA 30005
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(678) 527-2000 www.THEmETROPOLITANCLub.NET SALES@THEmETROPOLITANCLub.NET
96 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
20,000 1 300
CATERING: onsite menus as unique as you are. offsite catering by special exception for ethnic events. INCLuDES: linens, decor, detailed event management and coordination, generous granite and marble dancefloor PARkING: easily accessible, well-lit, and complimentary SPECIAL fEATuRES: hosts only one event at a time, so you will always receive our staff’s full and undivided attention, outdoor patio for ceremonies
FUNCTION FACILITY
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MORROW
venue guIde
THE MORROW CENTER
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
28,000 8 600
CATERING: choose from our preferred caterers list INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, inhouse sound system, Built in 334 sq. ft. hardwood stage, Wi-fi, coat room & concierge service PARkING: onsite complimentary parking, valet parking optional SPECIAL fEATuRES: dining lounge with built in Induction Buffet, designer axminster Belgium carpet, Built in 120” drop down screen and lcd projector, Brazilian firewood marble
The Morrow Center is Georgia’s newest conference center. Located just 20 minutes from downtown Atlanta and 10 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, The Morrow Center is poised to create your event with affordable elegance. The Morrow Center’s 28,000 sq ft of flexible event space is built to the International Association of Conference Center and Marriott standards to accommodate every social and business need. We will provide complete concierge service throughout your entire event and we have the flexibility to work within your budget without compromising your imagination. Event planning options range from the guest supplying their own amenities to a total care package coordinated fully by our team. Guests of The Morrow Center enjoy a host of event amenities including 4,700 sq. ft. ballroommultiple floor plans, hardwood stage for ceremony & dance, state-of-the-art audio sound system, full 120” screen & LCD presentations, movable hardwood dance floor, 18” high ceilings, 2 large (2,000+ sq. ft.) reception areas, rehearsal dining built-in induction buffet, complimentary wi-fi and 500+ parking spaces, coat room and main desk concierge, wedding planner on staff, and full bar options. Such a variety of planning options make the Morrow Center a smart choice for any budget. The Morrow Center appreciates the importance of quality and service and understands that food and beverage selections can greatly impact the success of any event. You will find only the highest quality and finest selections for food and beverage through the Morrow Center’s preferred list of caterers. We are conveniently located 1 mile off of I-75 (exit 233) next to Southlake Mall.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
FUNCTION FACILITY
BALLROO M
CONTACT 1180 Southlake Circle, Ste. 100 Morrow, GA 30260
(678) 489-5161 www.mORROwCENTER.COm SSuLLIVAN@CITyOfmORROw.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 97
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
MARIETTA
OLDE TOWNE ATHLETIC CLUB
main photo by andrea Taylor studio
6,000 1 up to 500
Celebrate the most important day in your life at Olde Towne Athletic Club!
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE:
The highlight of any reception is a memorable dining experience for all of your guests. Let our experienced catering staff guide you through all the planning details of your event, from the food and beverages to the hotels, flowers, music or other local vendors. Executive Chef Scott Murtha, a Culinary Institute of America graduate in Hyde Park, New York, along with our in-house culinary staff is here to provide you with a custom menu that will make your reception a first class success.
# Of EVENT SPACES:
We will help take the worry out of planning so you can relax and enjoy your very special event. Special Event Director Bob Cooper, who brings over 25 years of experience, will assist you in planning every detail of your wedding reception and will provide suggestions to help make your wedding day absolutely flawless. From the elegant Grand Ballroom with an outside terrace to the oversized gazebo for outdoor garden ceremonies, Olde Towne Athletic Club is truly a MUST SEE before making your venue decision. Olde Towne Athletic Club would love to have the opportunity to serve you and your guests. We will offer you the detailed attention your event deserves. Please call upon us for a tour of our facility, and the chance to make your event spectacular!
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
4950 Olde Towne Parkway Marietta, GA 30068
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(770) 578-9901 www.OTAC.NET bCOOPER@OTAC.NET
98 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
CAPACITy:
onsite dance floor, china, glassware, and house linens PARkING: onsite complimentary parking, valet parking optional SPECIAL fEATuRES: Indoor and outdoor ceremony space, large gazebo CATERING: INCLuDES:
FUNCTION FACILITY
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
venue guIde
THE PEACHTREE CLUB
main photo by nadia d photo
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
7,000 1 200
CATERING: award winning onsite catering INCLuDES: use of entire facility, chiavari chairs, tables, ivory linens, glassware/silverware, votives, cake riser, service staff PARkING: self parking in secure deck SPECIAL fEATuRES: panoramic views of midtown, piedmont park and Buckhead, 1700 square feet of outdoor event space, retractable awnings provide shade and relief from light rain, highest outdoor venue in the southeast
Imagine yourself 28 stories above the heart of Midtown, outside and surrounded by the amazing Atlanta Skyline. The Peachtree Club and 28th Floor Skyline Terrace is the only rooftop venue of its kind in Atlanta. Ceremonies under the stars and receptions among the clouds create the perfect rooftop wedding and the most unique events in the city. Panoramic views from Kennesaw Mountain to Stone Mountain, spectacular sunsets, twinkling lights and cool Georgia breezes combine to create an elegant and romantic atmosphere for you and your guests. With the Club’s six private dining rooms, the main dining room, European Bar and Skyline Terrace, the event possibilities are endless. From intimate dinner parties to receptions for up to 200, The Peachtree Club is available to meet a variety of special event needs. It is a perfect location to show off Atlanta to out-of-town friends and family. The Peachtree Club event specialist can work with you in every aspect of planning and execution of your gathering to ensure everything will be as you envisioned. In addition, the Chef and his staff are highly qualified to meet your every culinary need. Sample menus are available upon request, or Chef will be pleased to tailor make your menu to create an unforgettable event. The Peachtree Club is one of Atlanta’s premier private event facilities. It is one of the few venues in the City with a skyline view of Atlanta, and the only one with outside access at skyline level. Located in the midst of many hotels, just a few blocks from Piedmont Park, and easy access to MARTA, the location could not be more ideal. The attention to detail, exceptional service and award winning cuisine sets The Peachtree Club in a class by itself.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
URBAN
BALLROO M
CONTACT 999 Peachtree Street, NE/ 28th Floor Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 817-0999 www.ATLANTAROOfTOPwEDDINGS.COm wCOLLINS@PEACHTREECLub.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 99
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
MIDTOWN
PIEDMONT ROOM AND GARDEN TENT
Image by jessica horwitz
In the heart of Midtown Atlanta, with Piedmont Park as the backdrop, the Piedmont Room and Piedmont Garden Tent offer two distinctly different settings for memorable occasions. The Piedmont Garden Tent’s flowing white silk ceiling frames spectacular views of Atlanta’s Midtown skyline and Piedmont Park. Crystal chandeliers, Chinese lanterns and hundreds of flickering tea candles provide soft romantic lighting throughout the evening while a classic checkered dance floor invites guests to dance the night away. In the private Meadow reserved exclusively for Garden Tent events, the lush willow trees provide a naturally gorgeous backdrop to a ceremony or intimate cocktail reception. Located on the second floor of the building, the Piedmont Room features soaring thirty-foot ceilings and twelve foot windows overlooking the city’s largest park as well as skyline. With a backdrop alive with color both day and night, the Piedmont Room lends an air of sophistication and glamour to any event. Guests will feast on a menu designed for your event, whether it’s a southern-inspired meal featuring Shrimp & Grits Martinis and Fried Green Tomatoes or a formal, multi-course seated dinner. The choice is yours and our Executive Chef is pleased to tailor our menus to your tastes.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
500 10th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30309
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 249-0001 www.PIEDmONTROOm.COm LAuREN@PIEDmONTROOm.COm
100 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
10,000 2 300
CATERING: onsite, custom designed menus INCLuDES: gold chavari chairs, variety of tables, ivory linens, tea candles, dance floor, optional staging PARkING: complimentary self- parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: Two distinct venues for outdoor and indoor events, breathtaking views and truly unique setting, convenient location with proximity to shopping, dining, and accomodations
OUTDOOR
URBAN
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DUNWOODY
venue guIde
RAvINIA CLUB AND GARDENS
6,000 3 up to 650
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
onsite catering with award winning chef. offsite catering permitted if minimums are met INCLuDES: marble dance floor, chateau chairs, standard linens, av equipment PARkING: free parking, valet optional SPECIAL fEATuRES: garden setting with lake, 10 story atrium with water features, city club setting, garden views, on-premise day spa, close to hotels, boutique planning services, onsite floral design CATERING:
Established in 1987, the Ravinia Club is an exclusive private club set in Dunwoody’s prestigious Ravinia complex with an ambiance that is conducive to both business ventures and family togetherness alike. Native American for “Magical Gardens,” Ravinia is not just our name, it’s a concept that is carried throughout the Club in its decor - from the sedate wildlife etchings in the glass to the Italian marble foyer and lovely floral artwork. Additionally, the Club is set aside the award-winning Ravinia gardens . . . A beautiful sanctuary for weddings, social and corporate events. The Club’s experienced professional catering team handles any size occasion with grace and elegance. Whether menu options, floral arrangements, music or photography, the staff can assist with any or all aspects to ensure a flawless and memorable event. The Ravinia Club’s meeting facilities are, in a word, perfect. Whether the event is an intimate lunch or a gathering of several hundred, it becomes the flawless occasion that you expect. When business is in order, technology-savvy meeting rooms are equipped with the necessary electronics. The Ravinia Club is a traditionally appointed City Club with a cascading spiral staircase and hand painted ceilings. The Gardens at Ravinia provide a tranquil setting for ceremonies of up to 200 guests. Lush wooded areas with two lakes and a stream that runs past an outdoor pagoda. We can accommodate 200 guests in our stately Main Dining Room alone and up to 350 guests by including other private rooms.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
BALLROO M
URBAN
CONTACT Two Ravinia Drive Suite 100 Atlanta, GA 30346
(770) 392-7328 www.RAVINIACLub.COm LAuRAPOTTS@RAVINIACLub.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 101
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
ATLANTA GALLERIA
RENAISSANCE ATLANTA WAvERLY HOTEL
With a 28 year tradition of hospitality and special event excellence in Atlanta, the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel has just the team and space to create your most memorable event. Our 14 story sun-drenched atrium lobby offers a unique sense of arrival, and the perfect location for wedding photos, a cocktail reception or just spending time with colleagues, family or friends. Beyond our atrium you’ll discover 3 beautiful ballrooms, all with individual sound, climate controls and lighting. Our Kennesaw room, complete with contemporary chandeliers and warm décor accented by shades of ivory and browns, offers 5,200 square feet of ballroom space, perfect for dinners, dancing and celebrating of all kinds. Earth tones accented by greens, reds and gold bring the Habersham Ballroom to life. 5,900 square feet of space, accented by airy 19 foot ceilings, offers a distinctive space for any type of event. For maximum impact, our 16,000 square foot Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 1,000 guests for plated dinners. Air wall flexibility allows creative space design for receptions, dinners and many types of unique sets and décor. Both the Habersham and Grand Ballrooms adjoin the spacious Garden Court pre-function area. With high ceilings, natural light and marble columns, the Garden Court is a lovely setting for cocktail receptions or after dinner dessert and coffee gatherings. Compliment the perfect special event with overnight stays in one of our 521 spacious guest rooms and suites. For the ultimate in special treatment, SpaWaverly offers soothing, personalized treatments, or relax in our complimentary Fitness Center, steam and sauna, and indoor salt water swimming pool.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
2450 Galleria Parkway SE Atlanta, GA 30339
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(770) 953-4500 www.RENAISSANCEwAVERLy.COm ATLRb.LEADS@RENAISSANCEHOTELS.COm
102 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
60,000 5 10 - 1,000
CATERING: catering onsite, offsite allowed for specialized events PARkING: self parking is complimentary; valet parking available SPECIAL fEATuRES: 14 story atrium lobby, access to galleria gardens, spa services available, full fitness center, steam and sauna
BALLROO M
HOTEL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
venue guIde
RENAISSANCE ATLANTA MIDTOWN
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
15,000 5 375
CATERING: onsite and ethnic catering INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, dance floor and audio visual PARkING: valet SPECIAL fEATuRES: Warm, inviting lobby complete with fireplace, stylish atmosphere, original artwork by local artists, pet-friendly policy, evening wine reception, and coffee and tea service each morning.
Give your guests the chance to discover the distinctive blend of Southern hospitality, chic sophistication and modern design at Renaissance® Atlanta Midtown Hotel. Whether you’re planning a wedding, bar/bat mitzvah, fundraiser or any social function, discover the perfect venue among our incredible indoor and outdoor spaces. Invite up to 375 guests to a seated banquet in our luxuriously elegant 4,455 square-foot High Ballroom. Plan an intimate get-together in our stylish 570 square-foot Alliance Room where you and your guests can step out on the gorgeous terrace for a breath of fresh air, or photos. Wherever you choose to hold your event, our creative team of event specialists will work with you to design and execute every detail. Our expert culinary staff will create personalized menus of inspiring cuisine to satisfy even the most particular taste buds. Awaken your senses with an event at Rooftop 866, our rooftop terrace bar and lounge. Featuring handcrafted cocktails and locally-inspired dishes served in a garden-like atmosphere complete with the scent of the surrounding peach trees, private cabana seating and dramatic fire pits, this gorgeous outdoor space is a top pick among the local crowds. Or celebrate as you savor cuisine created by a culinary team led by famed chef Janine Falvo, a James Beard Rising Star recipient - featuring a farm-to-fork concept. Perfectly located steps from Piedmont Park, our AAA 4-Diamond rated hotel in vibrant Midtown has everything you need to make your guest list feel right at home in one of our 304 uniquely designed guest rooms and suites. Discover what’s new, what’s now and what’s next where modern glam meets southern charm... when you’re in Midtown, you’re in the middle of it all.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon BALLROO M
HOTEL
CONTACT 866 West Peachtree Street, NW Atlanta, GA 30309
(678) 412-2400 RENAISSANCEATLANTAmIDTOwN.COm ERIC.wALDRON@RENAISSANCEHOTELS.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 103
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
JOHNS CREEK
ST IvES COUNTRY CLUB
Sitting majestically atop one of the highest points in North Fulton County is St Ives Country Club’s crowning jewel, a 45,000 square foot stone encased clubhouse. Once inside, you experience the feeling of an 18th Century country English Manor. Full height mahogany paneling, crystal chandeliers, woven carpets handmade in the Far East, and silk wall coverings are just some of the spectacular appointments. Whether entertaining honored guests, hosting a small private party, throwing a large holiday event or coordinating an executive golf outing, St Ives Country Club provides the perfect combination of private elegance and impeccable service to make your event the talk of the town. Enjoy our culinary artists’ finest creations whether it is one of our menus or a menu that will reflect your own personal style. Our executive chef can help you select the perfect enhancements to make a lasting impression. St Ives Country Club offers deluxe bar services which include a large selection of award winning wines. Let us assist you in teaming the perfect wines with your meal. We would also be pleased to assist in directing you towards some of the finest wedding vendors in the Atlanta area. Let us help you create a special occasion for all to enjoy!
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
1 St Ives Country Club Drive Johns Creek, Georgia 30097
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(770) 623-1239 www.STIVESCOuNTRyCLub.ORG HSHELL@STIVESCOuNTRyCLub.ORG
104 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
3,500 3 25 - 250
CATERING: onsite caterer with custom menus, vegetarian available INCLuDES: Tables, chairs, linens, glassware, silverware, setup/ breakdown, centerpieces PARkING: complimentary self parking available, valet service available SPECIAL fEATuRES: golf course view, outdoor ceremony site, close to hotels, board room and private banquet rooms
COUNTRY CLU B
BALLROO M
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
MIDTOWN
venue guIde
SUMMEROUR
lower left image by Wittmayer photography
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
8,500 1 400
preferred caterer list provided INCLuDES: our inventory of tables and chairs that include 200 gold chiavari chairs and dark wood farm tables, security guard and event manager. PARkING: free self parking, optional valet available SPECIAL fEATuRES: fabulous outdoor courtyard, amazing city views, original wood floors and ceiling, great lighting and ambiance, bring your own alcohol CATERING:
Summerour Studio is an old world refurbished factory overlooking Atlantic Station and Atlanta with a great skyline view! Summerour blends the past and present perfectly. This wonderful building is the main studio and office for Summerour & Associates architecture firm. The over 8,000 square feet of space is wide open with great windows to capture the view. As you arrive to Summerour you enter through arches into a beautiful cobblestone courtyard that rivals the villas of Tuscany. The main event space has many wonderful details that reinforce the architectural background of this great building, such as the original wood barrel vaulted ceiling and a hand carved Michelangelo replica staircase. Convenient to Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, Atlantic Station and the interstate, this is the perfect setting for both social and corporate events. Consider Summerour Studio for your wedding ceremony and receptions, rehearsal dinners, Bar and Bat Mitzvah’s, corporate events, auctions and fundraisers as well as holiday parties. Summerour can easily accommodate groups of 50 up to 425 guests.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
URBAN
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 409 Bishop Street NW Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 962-8708 www.NOVAREEVENTS.COm mzANGER@NOVAREEVENTS.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 105
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
DOWNTOWN
vENTANAS
Images by artstar photography
Ventanas, (Spanish for “windows”), is where you’ll find the only sweeping view of the Atlanta skyline that soars from Stone Mountain to Kennesaw Mountain. Perched atop the 14th and 15th stories of the Park Pavilion building in the city’s Luckie Marietta District, Ventanas offers 9,547 inspiring square feet of premier indoor and outdoor rooftop space, and a helipad, across the street from Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. The space is one block from the CNN Center, Philips Arena, Georgia World Congress Center, the Georgia Dome, American Cancer Society and AmericasMart. Take in breathtaking views of the city high above Downtown Atlanta with our magnificent floor-to-ceiling windows. From the 14th floor terrace level, step out onto the rooftop patio that features three fire pits and soft seating to enjoy a breath of fresh air or make your grand entrance via our unique spiral staircase that joins the 14th and 15th floors. While you’re enjoying a cocktail of your choice listen to your favorite band or DJ with clear and crisp sound amidst our oversized acoustical floating ceiling panels. And, you’ll be the talk of the town—when you and your guests make a dramatic entrance and exit by helicopter to Atlanta’s only event space and helipad. For an event that’s as close as possible to heaven, this is the place. From decadent hors d’oeuvres served against the backdrop of Atlanta’s evening skyline by Atlanta’s finest caterers paired with immaculate service, to a corporate lunch high above the daytime rush of the business capital of the south, our numerous food and beverage options can make your signature event unforgettable, whether for 50 people – or 500.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
275 Baker Street Atlanta, GA 30313
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
(404) 766-3867 www.VENTANASATLANTA.COm DHm@LEGACyPROPERTy.COm
106 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
9,547 3 50-500
choose from a preferred catering list of atlanta’s finest caterers INCLuDES: visit our website for a complete list of our inventory PARkING: valet and self parking available SPECIAL fEATuRES: rooftop venue, breathtaking view of the downtown, midtown and Buckhead skyline, indoor and outdoor space available, walking distance to the gWcc, helipad, outdoor patio and firepits CATERING:
URBAN
FUNCTION FACILITY
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
DEKALB, GWINNETT
venue guIde
vECOMA AT THE YELLOW RIvER
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
3,500 3 50 - 330
CATERING: onsite
catering with organic, vegan options, full alcohol license INCLuDES: chairs, tables, dance floor, centerpieces, decorations, dinnerware PARkING: ample free onsite parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: riverside, 70 acre forest oasis in a metropolis with total privacy, fireplace in a lovely lodge, indoor/outdoor events, huge lawn available for outdoor activities, large covered veranda, family owned since 1920’s.
Vecoma is Atlanta’s most secluded, charming and distinctive special events venue. Guests enjoy PRIVATE use of the lovely romantic lodge hidden in a 70 acre forest oasis. Included on the RIVERSIDE property is a huge back lawn perfect for large gatherings, ceremonies or games. Vecoma is a family owned business which specializes in the personal touch. History of Vecoma....As early as 900 B.C. this land formed part of the extensive native American southern trading route. Later it became the place of countless baptisms as well as a bivouac point for both Confederate and Union forces during 1864 and 1865. In 1927 Venie and Cotton Mather completed a 6-sided cabin made entirely of stone and wood taken from the property. The lodge was named Vecoma, combining the first two letters of each of their names. The foundation and chimney of this family relic still remain next to the new reception hall built in 1996. The large deck on the back of the hall overlooks the woods, lawn and river. Many couples have chosen this site for their wedding and reception. It is rich in history and natural beauty. Today, the family of Venie and Cotton Mather invite you to enjoy Vecoma as you celebrate your own historic and special event. As you walk the grounds, you can see the foundations of the old farm, the Yellow River; and you might even get a glimpse of deer and other wildlife that inhabit the densely wooded land.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
OUTDOOR
FUNCTION FACILITY
CONTACT 4400 Vecoma Lane Snellville, GA 30039
(770) 972-6540 www.VECOmA1.COm VECOmA@mINDSPRING.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 107
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
venue guIde
MIDTOWN
W ATLANTA - MIDTOWN
30,000 7 1,500
Join us at W Atlanta – Midtown, where custom details define an extraordinary experience. Whether it’s a commitment ceremony, wedding, or reception, the electric energy of our Midtown location is sure to light up your celebration. Offering access to an endless array of wonderful dining options, world‐class culture, and picturesque Piedmont Park, W Atlanta – Midtown is the perfect pick for your wedding or event.
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE:
Say “I do” to spectacular views in Altitude, our 27th floor event space with floor‐to‐ceiling windows that will surround your guests with panoramic views of the sparkling Atlanta skyline. Or, celebrate in our 10,000 square foot Great Room – the largest ballroom of any W Hotel worldwide – accommodating up to 500 guests for a reception.
vegan, vegetarian, custom menu creations, onsite, kosher and Indian INCLuDES: dance floor, linens, china, silverware, stemware, votive candles, lounge furniture PARkING: valet and self parking SPECIAL fEATuRES: W signature Wow vows, altitude – 27th floor event space, spice market by jean-georges, Bliss spa, rande gerber’s Whiskey park, WeT deck with private cabanas, proximity to piedmont park, the midtown mile, the arts and public transit.
Spoil your wedding party with customized treatments at Bliss Spa. Share a champagne toast during your rehearsal dinner at Jean‐Georges Vongerichten’s Spice Market. Lounge over post‐wedding cocktails with family and friends at Rande Gerber’s Whiskey Park. With our renowned partners all located within the hotel, we offer a destination that allows you to relax and stay awhile. When you choose W Hotels, you’ll enjoy W signature stylings and exclusive Whatever/Whenever® Service, so your experience is exactly how you always imagined.
CONTACT
SCAN HERE
188 14th Street NE Atlanta, GA 30361
for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
404-724-2588 www.wATLANTAmIDTOwN.COm GAyLENE.mOLDT@wHOTELS.COm
108 | MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
# Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
CATERING:
BALLROO M
HOTEL
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
BUCKHEAD
venue guIde
W ATLANTA - BUCKHEAD
above photo by picture This! photography (www.sandraandgreg.com)
TOTAL SquARE fOOTAGE: # Of EVENT SPACES: CAPACITy:
9,000 4 300
CATERING: vegan, vegetarian, custom menu creations, onsite, organic INCLuDES: dance floor, risers, linens, china, silverware, stemware, votive candles, dj and cake tables PARkING: valet SPECIAL fEATuRES: W signature Wow vows and W signature stylings, celebrity chef jeangeorges’ markeT restaurant, rande gerber’s Whiskey Blue rooftop bar, private event spaces, WeT deck with individual cabanas, proximity to world-class shopping and over 1400 unique retailers.
Get ready for your big day at W Atlanta – Buckhead, where you’ll unveil the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and modern chic. Maintaining the grand traditions of the south, we provide a stylish environment infused with the historical references that define the rich tradition of Buckhead. Our vibrantly‐styled spaces are just the beginning. When you choose W Hotels, you’ll get to enjoy exclusive Whatever/Whenever® services so your experience is exactly how you always imagined. Wishing for the intimate wedding of your dreams? W Atlanta – Buckhead’s event spaces are arranged to make a guest feel as if no one else is around. Beginning with our not‐your‐ordinary Living Room (that’s lobby in W‐speak), you’ll be immersed in W’s signature style. Enjoy the visionary aesthetic of our Thom Filicia‐designed spaces and rooms that awaken the senses with rich, dramatic hues and sultriness. With renowned on‐site partners like celebrity Chef Jean‐Georges Vongerichten’s MARKET restaurant to nightlife maven Rande Gerber’s Whiskey Blue rooftop bar, we’ve got you covered. Whatever/Whenever® your event needs may be, we invite you to settle in and stay awhile.
SCAN HERE for more pIcTures, vIdeo, revIeWs & InformaTIon
BALLROO M
HOTEL
CONTACT 3377 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30326
(678) 500-3128 www.wATLANTAbuCkHEAD.COm kAREN.DONATELLI@wHOTELS.COm
MORE ABOUT THIS LOCATION ONLINE AT OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 109
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
rehearsal dInner & prIvaTe dInIng guIde
The ins and outs of
REHEARSAL DINNERS
and private dining parties A private dinner is a chance for people to gather and get to know each other better and have a shared experience. Whether it’s a rehearsal dinner, a birthday party or a corporate function, if you have a certain look and price point in mind, chances are you can find a restaurant that will suit your needs. Most have experience hosting small to large functions, so planning is relatively painless. Hosting a dinner at a restaurant ensures that your guests will enjoy excellent fare, since good food is their specialty. Plus, they are already fully decorated, allowing for added pizzazz that may be lacking in another venue type’s more basic décor. If you’re foodies, a restaurant can be a place that is as adventurous with its cuisine as you are. These days your personality or that of your business can be reflected in the setting. However, keep in mind that with restaurants, the good food can come with space limitations. Remember that if your group size doesn’t warrant renting the entire place, you may be seated close to regular patrons, which can mean less privacy. Semi-private dining – or dining that is not closed off – can mean that noise and passersby will be out of your control. “At a baseline, you want a restaurant with enough space for your guests to feel comfortable,” said Jennifer Boozer, Director of Marketing for Buckhead Life Restaurant Group, which owns twelve restaurants and private event spaces. Private dinners are the first time a lot of people get to meet each other,” said Boozer. “You want an easy environment for people to talk with each other. So, be sure to ask if the space will be quiet.” If needed, make sure that the establishment you choose is equipped with AV gear that can support slideshows, speeches, toasting,
110 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
roasting and/or announcements so that your entire crowd can easily see and hear. If they do not have the necessary equipment, confirm that they will allow you to bring in your own and that the electrical outlets can support the equipment you bring in.
SEAR at ATLANTA MARRIOTT MARQUIS
Depending on the size of your dinner, it may be helpful to set a pre-determined menu. If you have a smaller group, you could work with the restaurant to provide more choices for your guests. And don’t forget the little touches that make every event unique. Although private dinners tend to be smaller in size, you can still incorporate little details with big impact like centerpieces, tags on gift items, custom napkins and even place cards. Escort cards are often used at large events because they let guests know where they will be seated. In the same way, place cards are an excellent detail for smaller dinners. There are so many opportunities to make a private restaurant experience your own unique creation. Determining your particular needs will enable you to find the perfect place to throw your next party. Whether you choose a quaint bistro or a larger eatery for your event, remember that throwing a private dinner is your chance to make a meal into a memorable experience.
TIp :: don’t forget the details. place cards are an excellent detail for smaller dinner parties.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
rehearsal dInner & prIvaTe dInIng guIde
SEAR at Atlanta Marriott Marquis 265 peachtree center ave atlanta, ga 30303 seaTs: 10 to 100 cuIsIne: fire-Inspired american The Sear Private Dining room is conveniently located within the Atlanta Marriott Marquis’ signature restaurant, Sear, also the cooking style of choice at this fire-inspired American restaurant, specializes in searing steaks, seafood and, yes, desserts. The Private Dining room, divisible into 2 rooms for 50 or one room with seating for up to 100 guests, is an ideal setting for intimate and private dining. Allow our Event Specialist to handle all the details and our culinary team to customize menus to satisfy the most discriminating taste. Leave everything to us and enjoy your memorable event within the breathtaking Atlanta Marriott Marquis.
se a r aT la n Ta .c om • 4 0 4 - 5 8 6 - 6 0 7 9
•
lau r en .m.sI mmo ns@ ma r r IoT T.co m
ATLANTA FISH MARKET 265 pharr road atlanta, ga 30305 seaTs: up to 160 guests cuIsIne: seafood Southern charm and the Southeast’s widest selection of fresh fish and seafood take center stage at this everpopular Buckhead landmark. With gracious service and a comfortable, neighborhood atmosphere, it is a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of Buckhead. Atlanta Fish Market has something for everyone, and is ideal for luncheons, dinners, business or speaker meetings, and receptions. A Savannah-casual atmosphere for casual to dressy affairs and specialty linens, florals, and decorations allow you to customize your event. With private dining rooms on the restaurant level and on the mezzanine overlooking the restaurant, you can’t go wrong with Atlanta Fish Market for your next private dining experience. B UC K H E A D R E S TA U RA NT S .COM • ( 404) 601- 1333
•
mWo lla s To n@ Bu ckhea dr es Tauran Ts. c om
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 111
Hudgens Center
Call Cricket!
Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center
Call or email Cricket to get your FREE guide to Gwinnett’s top special event facilities!
550 Trackside
Vecoma
Little Gardens
Gwinnett Convention and visitors Bureau Cricket Elliott-Leeper, Sales Manager - celeeper@gcvb.org, 770.814.6049 | www.visitgwinnettcounty.org Free Special Event Guide | Complimentary Visitor Bags (with accommodations) | Assistance Securing Group Accommodations
STYLISH
CELEBRATIONS
SNAPSHOTS FROM THIS SECTION
A wedding full of whimsical details including pinwheels and send off ribbons...
114
Color coordinated yarmulkes carry the hot pink hue throughout this Bat Mitzvah...
118
Frosted acrylic make regular ‘ole invitations pop! See more of Carly’s details....
134
Favorite cartoon characters make for great birthday party themes....
126
WEDDINGS, MITZvAHS, BABY SHOWERS AND BIRTHDAY PARTIES TOO. Here’s where the rubber meets the road. Where all of those beautiful details and inspiration boards meet talented teams of vendors and make special event magic happen. It’s the Real Events section! You want em’ and we’ve got em’: wow-inducing weddings, mitzvahs, baby showers and special events features you’re going to fall head over heels in l-o-v-e with. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 113
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
CASEY + THOMAS
S
IMAGES BY CHRISTINE GALLAGHER PHOTOGRAPHY
weet, southern, sentimental touches was the theme du jour for Casey and Thomas’ nuptials. And though Thomas popped the question in snowy Colorado, there was no trace of winter at this garden party inspired wedding. The reception site, the charming PRImROSE COTTAgE in historic Roswell, was the perfect place for Casey and Thomas to put her design background -- and their shared love of gardening and florals-- to work. The end result? One fine day. From the invitations to the cake, every aspect of the day incorporated the purple, pink, yellow and orange color scheme. After the couple were married at FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHuRCH OF mARIETTA, they hopped a trolley with friends and family for a sunny afternoon reception. Guests were able to follow family members’ photographs scattered throughout Primrose Cottage as they made their way toward delicious food and even more festivities! Though a delectable menu and fantastic music kept everyone in high spirits, it was a different moment that meant the most to Casey and Thomas. “If we had to pick just one [memorable moment] we agree that it would be our walk down the aisle after being pronounced husband and wife.” Made special not only because is was a major life milestone, but because it was a moment shared with family and friends.
114 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
ESCORT CARDS
For a unique take on seating arrangements, Casey and Thomas came up with the idea to name each table after flowers and creating a floral motif on the seating cards to match the corresponding table. “MOMENTAL DESIGNS did such a beautiful job crafting and hand painting each of these papers for our guests” said Casey. “This detail...really helped articulate the overall styling we had envisioned for our wedding.”
BRIDESMAID GIFTS
We loved these hankies that Casey gifted her bridesmaids. In fact, we’ve seen the sweet sentiment popping up as bridesmaids gifts, save the dates, wedding invitations and bouquet wraps! Practical, thoughtful and so very, very pretty. We hope it’s a design trend and gifting staple that’s around to stay.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 115
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
PINWHEELS
For the younger wedding attendees, Casey and Thomas made brightly colored pinwheels as take home favors. The reasoning was simple: “We wanted them to feel like they were just as much a part of our wedding day as the ‘grown ups,’” said Casey. “We thought it would be fun to send them home with a favor made especially for them!”
SEND OFF
Having been to plenty of weddings where bubbles and rose petals had been used to see the bride and groom off, Casey and Thomas were looking for something different. They decided to make send-off ribbons with long ribbon strands in the colors of their wedding for guests to wave as the two made their getaway.
Party Pros VENUE, CATERING, pLANNING AND DECOR Primrose Cottage, CEREMONY First Presbyterian Church of Marietta, pHOTOGRApHY Christine Gallagher Photography, CEREMONY FLORALS Boukates, WEDDING CAKE Celso’s Cakes, Dj Lethal Rhythms, FAVORS Emily G’s Jam, INVITATIONS Wedding Paper Divas, STATIONERY Momental Designs, TRANSpORTATION The Historic Marietta Trolley Co., MAKE Up Luxe Beauty Co
116 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
Your Happily Ever
After Starts Here. Polo Golf & Country Club is the perfect choice to host your upcoming celebration. This tranquil setting, located just north of Atlanta, offers a complete range of indoor and outdoor banquet amenities and services designed to accommodate intimate ceremonies of 20, or glorious receptions of over 300 guests. Schedule a consultation with Event Coordinator, Camile Fox by calling 770-406-4971 and begin planning your fairy tale beginning.
www.pologolfandcountryclub.com
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
DANIELLE’S BAT MITZVAH
C
IMAGES BY RIC MERSHON PHOTOGRAPHERS
elebrating a Bat Mitzvah is symbolic for many reasons, one of which being the transition from girl to young woman. When Danielle and her mom, Stacy began to plan her own Bat Mitzvah celebration, that notion was kept close. Balancing sophistication and fun were the top priority for the event decor and entertainment. Festivities began Friday evening, with a special dinner for out of town guests at MAGGIANO’S. Saturday morning Danielle and her family attended services at their synagogue, Gesher L’Torah, where Danielle became a Bat Mitzvah; followed by a catered kiddish luncheon. For the Saturday night party, Danielle, a true girly girl, went for a vibrant pink and orange color scheme for the GRAND HYATT ATLANTA ballroom. The design truly came to life with the help of Denise Rinsberg of LET’S CELEBRATE. Larger than life vases filled to the brim with hot pink plumes covered the room on tables with sequined linens. And if that didn’t spell glam, the all white “club” lounge for the younger party-goers certainly did! Though a dazzling night of decor, dancing and delicious treats, the undisputed highlight was the video montage of Danielle and her family, put together by BLUE ORCHID. “We all cried,” confessed mom, Stacy. Happy tears on an even happier day.
118 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
BRANDING
Creating a logo or emblem for your mitzvah or special event is a great way to unify your party decor. Design one yourself or enlist the help of a stationer or graphic designer who can lend their expertise. Once you’ve settled on a design, use it on everything from the napkins, to the stationery, to your very own marquis like Danielle’s!
CENTERPIECES
We loved these grand feather and rose centerpieces from LET’S CELEBRATE. The plumes and florals not only add a fun, dramatic elegance to the party -- their clear vases are practical too. We constantly hear complaints of partygoers unable to see their table guests through a flower arrangement. Use clear vases like these and problem solved!
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 119
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
COCKTAIL HOUR
Not only did the GRAND HYATT ATLANTA host Danielle’s big night, they were also the caterer. “Cocktail hour was amazing!” said mom, Stacy. “We had incredible sushi, passed hors d’ouvres, an Italian charcuterie station and a chef’s soup station with gazpacho shooters.” Yum! (Hostess tip: one-handed dishes like soup shooters are great for cocktail hour. Your guests will be able to eat and enjoy their mixed drink with ease.)
DESSERT
Cupcake delight! There was no shortage of this delectable treat at Danielle’s Bat Mitzvah. Flavors available for all sweet tooth’s present included creme brulee, mango and raspberry! Not your thing? Not to worry. Lemon sorbet, cheesecake and brownie lollipops from SCHOTT CHOCOLATE were also on hand for a late night sugar rush!
Party Pros VENUE The Grand Hyatt Atlanta, pHOTOGRApHY Ric Mershon Photographers, DECOR Let’s Celebrate, EVENT pLANNER The Party Connection, pROGRAMS Event Impressions, FAVORS Schott Chocolate & Party City, VIDEOGRApHER Blue Orchid Productions, STATIONERY Jenny’s Paper, Ink, SYNAGOGUE Gesher L’Torah, TRANSpORTATION Greene Classic Limousines
120 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
KATIE + JEFF
N
IMAGES BY ANNA AND SPENCER PHOTOGRAPHY
othing about Katie and Jeff is too traditional. Having met “the old fashioned way” on eHarmony, the pair knew that a ceremony and reception slightly off the beaten path would suit both their styles and personalities. The couple wed at pIEDMONT pARk, a practical location both close to their home and part of the landscape of their life together. Pulling design elements that were casual and a little bit funky, orange and green flower balls hung from a tree where Katie and Jeff recited their handwritten vows. A family style reception followed at MAGNOLIA HALL where guests were encouraged to rub elbows and get to know each other. BOLD AMERICAN prepared a crowd pleasing, southern feast of fried chicken, pole beans, fried green tomatoes and mac-n-cheese! THE FLOUR SHOppE made the wedding cakes that “reflected our personalities so well!” said Katie. A three tiered cake covered in tiny strawberry vines for her, and a tennis themed cake for the groom, although the sport is a shared hobby. After the festivities ended, the new Mr. and Mrs. met a pedi-cab on the edge of the park, and set off on a mid-town cruise. The perfect way -- according to Katie and Jeff -- to end the perfect day.
122 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
CAKE
Created by THE FLOUR SHOppE, the bride’s cake was just as fun as the two people cutting into it. The three tiered beauty was filled with colorful details; trimmed with red ric rac fondant and tiny summer strawberry vines. “Our wedding cakes reflected our personalities so well!” said Katie.
COLORS
Katie chose vibrant colors in shades of orange, rust and crimson paired with mossy greens to outfit her May wedding. DARRYL WISEMAN FLOWERS used mixed bouquets of roses, gerber daisies, ranunculus and other bold blooms to create the outdoor, Anthropologie-garden look Katie and Jeff were looking for.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 123
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
PHOTOBOOTH FUN
Photobooths are a great way to get guests out of their chairs and loosened up! Or maybe just take a break from the dance floor. Either way, the right props are a must! Katie and Jeff sourced this cute collection of glasses, lips and bowties from TARGET, RICHARD’S VARIETY STORE and Etsy vendor LITTLE RETREATS. The more creative your props, the more hilarious the pictures. Think outside the box and have fun with it!
DETAILS
We love the trend of moss and/ or flower covered initials for your wedding. Not only do they look great on ceremony doors, but they’ll transition right over to your reception! Perhaps on the back of the bride and groom’s dinner chairs? Some will even last until after the honeymoon. Have a friend hang them on your front door as a sweet reminder of your big day!
Party Pros VENUE Piedmont Park and Magnolia Hall, pHOTOGRApHER Anna & Spencer Photography, CATERER Bold American, FLORAL Darryl Wiseman Flowers, RENTAL EQUIpMENT Peachtree Tents and Events, MUSICIANS The Business, INVITATIONS Robyn Bennett, pROGRAM FANS & pLACE CARDS Fontastic, EVENT pLANNER Magnolia Events and Planning, TRANSpORTATION Cooper Limousine, CAKES The Flour Shoppe
124 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
MIA’S 6TH BIRTHDAY
F
IMAGES BY INIJE PHOTOGRAPHY
or Mia’s sixth birthday, event designer extraordinaire Lauren Weems of ADORNED EVENT DESIGN planned an event both Mia and Mom, Brynn could celebrate! It was Mia’s love for Hello Kitty paired with Brynn’s affinity for all things retro and vintage that inspired the day. After falling in love with a piece of purple and aqua patterned vintage fabric, the design fell into place with Lauren at the helm of handcrafting one fantastically creative detail after the next. “Hello Kitty is so popular right now,” said Lauren. “I wanted to find a way to do that concept as a party designer in a new and fresh way. I also didn’t want the party to feel too themed or overwhelmed with Hello Kitty.” Lauren began with a vision board that served as a style guide, and followed through with sketches of the table and other elements to make sure the party would be just as she envisioned. Establishing her modern-cartoon-meets-vintage-detail aesthetic, she began with a seriously cute hand stitched “Mia” banner, that translated into invitations, party hats, cupcake toppers and more!
126 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
GOODY BAGS
Ditching traditional cellophane bags, Lauren opted for a goody bag that was more in line with the look and feel of Mia’s big day. Each guest received a drawstring purple burlap bag that coincided with a scrumptious dessert bar. Filling their sacks to their hearts content, guests chose from a sugary spread of treats like giant marshmallows, gummy bears, grape taffy and vanilla meringues to name just a few!
CAKE POPS
Cupcakes were Mia’s “birthday cake” of choice, but Lauren Weems of ADORNED EVENT DESIGN had another special dessert surprise in store. Creating her own unique spin on the cake pop craze, she created custom Hello Kitty cake pops for the big day. Leaving no detail spared, she even color coordinated each bow in the party’s signature purple and aqua. They were an instant hit and crowd favorite!
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 127
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
CHALKBOARD SIGN
Sentimental moments can be hard to come by with kids running around, sweets being served and presents being opened. But thanks to a shabby chic chalkboard and some creativity on Lauren’s part -- Mia and her family have happy memories to look back on. After writing a birthday message or wish on the chalkboard, each party guest took turns snapping a picture with their kind words for the birthday girl. Says mom Brynn, “It was fun for the kids, made great thank you cards, and a wonderful memento for Mia.”
FABRIC
Finding the aqua and blue vintage floral fabric was the jumping off point for Lauren. Scanning it into her computer, she was then able to use the pattern and customize each design element. Our favorite? Those too-cute-for-words party hats! With the party’s “vintage” vibe, we love the throwback to a good ole party hat of yesteryear. The tufts of aqua and purple are an adorable touch. Such a fun and nostalgic idea!
Party Pros pARTY LOCATION AND ENTERTAINMENT Sensations, pHOTOGRApHY Inije Photography, BAKED GOODS AND SWEETS, STATIONERY, AND DECOR & STYLING Adorned Event Design
128 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
KASSANDRA + SCOTTY
T
IMAGES BY REICHMAN PHOTOGRAPHY
hey say that good things come to those who wait. For Scotty and Kassandra, they certainly did. Having dated one another for 10 years, the couple’s spring wedding was dreamy, romantic, and a vision of the love they’d cultivated throughout their relationship. Shortly after their engagement, the two chose Atlanta for their big-city wedding; seeing it as the perfect place to celebrate everyone who had shared in their love story. Shades of pink and rose illuminated everything from the ceremony chuppah, to Kassandra’s wedding gown, to the reception and dance floor. The two were married at THE TEMpLE in front of 250 of their closest friends and family. Hydrangeas, peonies and roses covered both the ceremony and the reception site, where guests continued to celebrate after Kassandra and Scotty said “I do.” Self confessed foodies, dinner was of utmost importance for these two. Enlisting the help of ENDIVE CATERING, they were able to prepare a menu that wowed! From the choreographed first dance, to the photobooth turned guest book, custom lounge and everything in between, it was a night -- and couple -- that truly dazzled!
130 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
FLOWERS
A self professed “girly girl,” flowers played an important role in making Kassandra’s romance-filled day a reality. Created by ARRANGEMENTS BY CATHERINE WALTHER, the luxurious, feminine blossoms ranged from peonies to hydrangeas and created dainty bridesmaids bouquets, dramatic table centerpieces and even accented the cake table.
THE DRESS
Befitting of Kassandra’s deep south affair, her two piece MONIQUE LHUILLIER wedding gown is named “Peaches and Cream.” A stunning combination of Chantilly lace and intricately hand beaded corset bodice and stunning pick-up ballgown skirt, Kassandra was every bit the blushing -- and beautiful -- bride.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 131
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
CAKE & DESSERT
Created by THE FLOUR SHOppE, the six tier wedding cake was a scrumptious duet of white almond sour cream cake and strawberry cake filled with cream cheese buttercream, iced in American buttercream. Of the celebratory confection Kassandra said, “Not only was it delicious, but it was presented beautifully!”
LOUNGE
As a surprise to Scotty and Kassandra, Scotty’s mom created a special lounge area at the reception. Designed to be relaxing and modern, the space was undeniably cool with its all white furniture and lucite accent tables. It served as the perfect place for guests to rest their tired feet!
Party Pros VENUE The Temple, CATERER Endive Catering, pHOTOGRApHER Reichman Photography, DECOR Arrangements by Catherine Walther, LIGHTING Magnum Co., RENTAL EQUIpMENT Peachtree Tents and Events, BAND U.S. Beat, INVITATIONS Paces Paper, EVENT pLANNER Magnolia Events and Planning, VIDEOGRApHER Reichman Photography, CAKES The Flour Shoppe, MAKE Up Mequilla Farrar
132 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
CARLY’S BAT MITZVAH
T
IMAGES BY RIC MERSHON PHOTOGRAPHERS
he vibrant pink, orange and blue color scheme that inspired Carly’s “Crazy for Carly” bat mitzvah were just as fun, festive and yes, CRAZY as the guest of honor herself! With her picture displayed on THE BUCkHEAD THEATRE marquee, Carly -- along with her family -- ushered her 200+ party guests into the theatre for a night to remember. Cocktail hour kicked off the evening, allowing guests to peek over the theatre balcony for a look inside the main party room. After a special video that Carly’s mom and dad put together for the big day (including well wishes from famed rapper Ludacris!) had played, the giant screen was lifted to reveal a kids only lounge on the theatre stage. From that point on, the party didn’t stop! At “Carly’s Counter” guests could take a seat at the diner style bar created by ADDED TOUCH CATERING and order up their custom Carly Sandwich from the placemat menus. Inside the main party room, chef attended stations were set up where guests could build their own custom burger creations. And of course, there were three different style fries to go along! Throw in FOUR surprise dessert bars, and there was plenty of fuel to keep the whole crowd rocking all night long; jamming to sounds by RHYTHM ENTERTAINMENT.
134 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
INVITATIONS
We love these acrylic invitations by JENNY’S pApER, INk. A youthful interpretation of the traditional paper version, they are the perfect way to set the tone for Carly’s energetic and celebratory weekend. (For more unconventional invitation ideas see our article on alternative stationery materials: page 36)
THEME
Playing off of Carly’s zest for life and the overall celebration of such a wonderful milestone, the “Crazy for Carly” theme for the party was born! In a perfect example of how to carry across a theme and/or color combination, Carly’s signature jumping silhouette and loud colors were everywhere: cookies, napkins, food stations, stage decorations, cocktail napkins -- even the dessert bar cookies!
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 135
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
ENTERTAINMENT
Carly made her grand entrance to the party via a choreographed hip hop routine, but it was another moment that had everyone on their feet! Seeing Carly lifted in her chair by close friends and family for her Hora was a special highlight for everyone to remember.
DESSERT
Toward the end of the party, Carly and guests were surprised when four larger than life boxes were lifted to reveal an unbelievable -- and vividly colored -- dessert bar! ADDED TOUCH CATERING had push pop-cake pops, s’mores, Crazy for Carly cookies and more for guests to feast on.
Party Pros VENUE The Buckhead Theatre, pHOTOGRApHY Ric Mershon Photographers, CATERER Added Touch Catering, DECOR Bold American Events, VIDEOGRApHER Dewitt-Smith video Productions, Party Favors Icebox, STATIONERY Jenny’s Paper, Ink, Dj Rhythm Entertainment, EVENT pLANNER It’s My Party
136 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
KAREN + MICHAEL
F
IMAGES BY PEACHTREE PHOTOGRAPHY
or Karen and Michael, the most important part of their wedding day wasn’t perfecting a theme or style, but rather surrounding themselves with family and friends as they committed their lives to one another. Surround themselves they did, inviting guests to spend the wedding weekend enjoying the natural serenity and unmistakable beauty that is found at THE INN AT SERENBE. Karen wanted the natural beauty of Serenbe to dictate the details, as evidenced in both the ceremony and reception sites, where warm yellow, ivory, light grey and navy abounded. Choosing the Inn for both the ceremony and reception locations was one way the pair hoped their celebration would more closely resemble “family camp: spirited, fun and full of lasting memories.” And with hay rides, bocce ball, relay races and more, it looks like plenty of memories were made. For the bride and groom though, it wasn’t only fun and games. “The weekend was playful, but the ceremony was reverent and worshipful,” said Karen. “Committing our lives to each other and exchanging our vows in front of our friends and family was truly the most memorable moment.”
138 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
THE DRESS
Much like meeting the man of your dreams, brides often have that gut feeling when it comes to their gowns. “I saw [my dress] at a WATTERS trunk show and it fit perfectly right off the rack,” said Karen. “This dress was made for me! In fact, I was the first person to buy the dress and even got to meet the designer.”
SIGNATURE STYLE
“While discussing different ideas we realized pretty quickly we wanted to create a weekend family camp. From there it was easy!” said Karen. “The fried chicken rehearsal dinner and welcome social, the relay races on Saturday, the outdoor ceremony and reception by the lake, and a bonfire and marshmallows under the full moon. It all just fell into place!”
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 139
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
FOOD AND CAKE
Karen and Michael put together a menu based on their favorite dining spots in Atlanta. Their focus was on fresh and local ingredients with added Southern flair. Sweet potato biscuits with shaved ham was a crowd favorite, but the real scene stealer was the cake. A buttermilk pound cake with praline frosting and amaretto filling. It was, according to Karen, “ridiculous!”
ESCORT CARDS
Upon arrival at the reception, each guest found a cowbell with his/her name and a farm animal on it. As a pseudo scavenger hunt, guests had to match their farm animal to the table with the corresponding picture! A great way to encourage mixing and mingling amongst your guests, and infuse even more personality into your party.
Party Pros VENUE The Inn at Serenbe, pHOTOGRApHY Peachtree Photography, CATERING & DECOR Gloriosa, MURALS AND CUSTOM pAINTING Mad Rose Studio, BAND Kingsized, WEDDING DRESS Bridals by Lori, HAIR & MAKEUp Ann Jacobs, BRIDESMAID DRESSES JCrew, CAKE TOppER Country Squirrels-R-US
140 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
Party Pros VENUE Private Residence, STATIONERY, pLANNING AND FAVORS Tim Duncan Events, GRApHIC DESIGN Britnei Nicole, DESSERTS Decadent Desserts by Debbie Williams
LADIES NIGHT PARTY
B
IMAGES BY PHOTOGRAPHS BY MARGARET A. LEMKE
ehind every great man, is a great woman. And behind that woman, is her tight knit group of best girlfriends! It was with this in mind that Shawn threw his wife Melissa a surprise, pre-eleventh anniversary cocktail party -- ladies only. The intimate group met at a private residence to toast Melissa... and celebrate the special surprise night ahead. TIM DUNCAN EVENTS designed the party, and transformed the home into a chic black, white and hot pink lounge. Servers welcomed guests with cotton candy martinis, pink sangria and champagne, but it was the expansive dessert display that had everyone’s attention. For the sweet loving crowd, Debbie Williams of DECADENT DESSERTS pulled out all of the stops: rock candy, white chocolate cake pops, chocolate covered strawberries, creme brulee shooters, whipped white chocolate mousse and more. And as if the night couldn’t be any sweeter, Shawn surprised Melissa with flowers, more guests and the announcement that the pre-party was part of an even bigger anniversary celebration!
142 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 143
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
MORGAN + ERIC
C
IMAGES BY JANET HOWARD STUDIO
hurch ceremony and THE BILTMORE BALLROOMS reception were every bit the tradition, class and old-world elegance that the couple had hoped for. Choosing a black and white color scheme accented by silver and gold, Morgan and Eric -- along with floral and event designer Britt Wood -- focused on designing details that would make their wedding weekend truly memorable. Following an intimate, traditional ceremony at pEACHTREE CHRISTIAN CHURCH, friends and family joined the happy couple at the Biltmore Ballrooms for an evening of -- as Morgan put it -- “the perfect cross between southern charm and sheer elegance.” May we add, old-world glamour? Hundreds of candles and romantic white flowers of all heights filled the baroque style ballroom with its crystal chandeliers and grand ceilings. Keeping in tradition with the reception venue’s historical charm, Morgan and Eric hired DJ Chris Hall to incorporate the original vibe of the Biltmore into the evening: A big band and jazz set during dinner, while subtly transitioning to more current favorites as the celebrating went on into the night. As the evening came to a close, Morgan and Eric got away in a 1942 Packard complete with a banner signed by friends and family. For their first week as husband and wife, the couple traveled to St. Thomas to snorkel, relax, and soak in the bliss of their beautiful wedding and new lives together.
144 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
CATERING
“We had the great fortune of being introduced to DENNIS DEAN CATERING and their incredible sales manager Shelby McMichael,” said Morgan. “Shelby was king, efficient and so helpful in planning our event. She was able to transform our selective tastes into a meal everyone could enjoy!”
THE VENUE
“Our reception [at] the BILTMORE BALLROOMS, which has been part of Atlanta’s social scene since 1924, was perfect for us,” said Morgan. “With it’s beautiful handcrafted ceilings, baroque style columns and crystal chandelier, the Georgian room was the perfect cross between southern charm and sheer elegance.”
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 145
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
FAVORS
In lieu of individual favors, Eric and Morgan decided to contribute to a cause that was near and dear to them. “Our pastor, Johnathan Golden, owns LAND OF A THOUSAND HILLS coffee company, who, along with many things, sponsors orphan children of the Rwandan genocide. We felt incredibly blessed to be able to give to this great need on behalf of our guests,” said Morgan.
CAKE
“One of my favorite details was our cake by CLASSIC CHEESECAkES AND CAkES,” said Morgan. “Mark Lotti’s unbelievable artistry created the perfect replication of my wedding gown. Not only was it beautiful to look at, but it was delicious to eat! Everyone complimented us on how beautiful and tasty the cake was. We were thrilled!”
Party Pros VENUE Biltmore Ballrooms, CHURCH Peachtree Christian Church, CATERER Dennis Dean Catering, pHOTOGRApHER Janet Howard Studio, FLORAL Britt Wood, Dj Absolute Entertainment, CEREMONY MUSICIANS Atlanta Symphony Players, STATIONERY Marguerite Peele Papers, EVENT pLANNER Elegant Weddings and Affairs, VIDEOGRApHER Evolution video, TRANSpORTATION Cooper Atlanta, CAKES Classic Cheesecakes and Cakes
146 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
presents
Details Make the Difference C o c k t a i l Pa r t i e s We d d i n g s Social Non-Profit Holiday Corporate
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
Party Pros VENUE Georgia Aquarium, EVENT pLANNER Helene and Company, Inc, pHOTOGRApHY Eric Bern Photography, FAVORS Button it Up, DECOR Let’s Celebrate, VIDEO Dewitt Smith video Productions
LYDIA’S BAT MITZVAH
I
IMAGES BY ERIC BERN STUDIO
n celebration of her bat mitzvah, Lydia and her family blew the momentous occasion out of the water...literally. Held at the larger than life GEORGIA AQUARIUM in downtown Atlanta, the party was a fantastical display of purple, pink and green. Cocktail hour was served in the Dolphin lobby, where guests mixed, mingled and congratulated Lydia before watching an exclusive dolphin show! The fun continued as party goers made their way into the ballroom where they were greeted by larger than life cartoon floral arrangements on each purple table. More pink and green accents showered the room, letting guests know that it was time to have fun! Catering to everyone’s specific tastes, there was both a kids buffet and a table buffet, but when it came to dessert, everyone could agree! Lydia offered guests an enormous dessert bar, the highlight of course, being the chocolate fountain! Taking to the dance floor, guests boogied down well into the night.
148 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
AYANA + MAXWELL
T
IMAGES BY SHAWNA HERRING PHOTOGRAPHY
he inspiration behind Maxwell and Ayana’s contemporary rooftop wedding came all the way from Los Angeles and those fabulous Hollywood Hills. It should come as no surprise then, that from the ceremony to the reception to the unbelievable getaway -- the affair was filled with glamour, drama and plenty of reasons to party! As guests arrived to the city-chic downtown Atlanta venue VENTANAS, they posed for a paparazzi style shot in front of the couple’s signature step and repeat. Once seated for the rooftop ceremony, Ayana made her grand entrance down a spiral staircase and joined her groom at the covered altar where they exchanged heartfelt vows together. Despite Maxwell and Ayana’s dramatic ceremony, the fun and excitement for guests had only just begun. For the bride and groom, their first dance together -- an Argentine tango -- was both one of their favorite moments and also the official kick off to an amazing night. The new Mr. and Mrs. Baker left their magical reception with as much flair as it began, taking their love to new heights in a helicopter sendoff! After their own private tour of the city lights, the couple spent their honeymoon exploring Athens, Greece and the Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini.
150 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
COLORS
This feature was such a perfect example of taking a color and running with it in your event design. Everything from her shoes, to the amazing florals from EDGE DESIGN GROUp, to the programs and place settings --magenta was front and center, creating a beautiful, memorable wedding and reception! Well done!
THE DRESS
When Ayana went looking for her wedding dress, she knew that she wanted a gown as customized and unique as the ceremony and reception she and her fiancee were planning. She found her dream dress at BRIDALS BY LORI: a strapless fit to flare number with a sweetheart neckline and slightly gathered waist. It was the addition of a simple beaded bust detail and handmade silk flowers that completed the look and made Ayana feel “like a supermodel!�
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 151
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
THE CAKE
BAkER’S MAN INC. went all out on the bride and groom’s signature cake, alternating layers of white chocolate cake with almond toffee chocolate ganache and almond cake with swiss raspberry buttercream. Holy sugar high! Modern square layers and bold magenta accent ribbons carried the day’s modern and chic vibe into the reception.
FAVORS
Both Maxwell and Ayana wanted to avoid sending their guests home with a favor that would end up being thrown away or living in a junk drawer so, they opted for a sweet treat instead. Individually packaged cupcakes from SWEET CHEATS were offered in the bride and groom’s favorite flavor.
Party Pros VENUE ventanas, CATERER A Divine Event, pHOTOGRApHY Shawna Herring, FLORAL AND DECOR Edge Design Group, RENTAL EQUIpMENT Classic Party Rentals, Dj Tre “TruSki” Peterson, VOCALIST Kyle Williams, STATIONERY Papered Wonders, EVENT pLANNER F&G Weddings, VIDEOGRApHER Three Ring Media, FAVORS Sweet Cheats, Kent’s Country Cookies, TRANSpORTATION Prestige Helicopter, CAKE Baker’s Man Inc., LINENS BBJ Linens
152 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
embrace E
mbrace your moment. Henry County offers affordable and unforgettable weddings that will create memories to last a lifetime. Choose from historic homes, elegant conference centers and hotels and magical outdoor venues —
Comfortably South of Atlanta.
www.visithenrycountygeorgia.com
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
Party Pros VENUE Private Home, PHOTOGRAPHY HA! Photography, CAKE The Cake Shoppe, LINENS Cover-Ups, FLOWERS Costco, TABLES The Rental Place, BEVERAGES Mr. Margarita, CATERING Mitties on Main
SARAH’S BRIDAL SHOWER
P
IMAGES BY HA! PHOTOGRAPHY
aris is without question, one of the most romantic places in the world. For bride to be Sarah, it was the most spectacular place she had ever visited. With those two sentiments in mind, there was no question that for her lingerie shower, the theme would be the epitome of Parisian chic as imagined by hostess and best friend, Lauren. French frills dominated the black, white and yellow color scheme. Glittering Eiffel Towers served as table centerpieces, while paper lanterns hung from the ceiling and bouquets of yellow roses were placed throughout the room. And of course, what would a French party be without a few delicious treats? THE CAkE SHOppE created the three tier vanilla and caramel confection, along with delectable petit fours. Oh la la! Guests also celebrated the upcoming wedding with a scrapbook station and sentimental “movie” put together by Lauren.
154 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
KENDAL + SWAYZE
F
IMAGES BY PARIS MOUNTAIN PHOTOGRAPHY
or bride-to-be Kendal, the wedding (and man!) of her dreams had always been a fairytale in the making. So after meeting and falling in love with half of that equation, Swayze Waters, it seemed only fitting that he propose in the most storybook location, Disney World! Her dreams continued to be realized though, when the couple began planning their spring wedding on the historic BERRY COLLEGE campus. The old world, romantic charm was just the atmosphere the couple were after. On a sunny day in April, Kendal and Swayze stood before 400 of their friends and family inside the Berry College chapel and said I do, but not before a tuxedo clad ring bearer happily chimed the hour! Ivory chiffon was draped throughout the chapel, while bouquets of white hydrangeas, roses and other soft blooms accented the intricate architecture. A vintage inspired reception followed soon after at Berry Ford Hall, where the bride and groom took center stage for their first dance. After a night filled with toasts, dancing, a towering five-tier cake and many memories made, Kendal and Swayze headed off for their honeymoon in the tropical oasis of St. Lucia.
156 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
THE DRESS
Kendal’s wedding dress was a real show stopper, and serves testament to the resurgence of more traditional gowns. The french lace, A-line gown featured a Victorian sweetheart neckline, delicate satin detail at the waist and a dramatic keyhole back. We loved her look paired with her bridesmaids dresses in one of our favorite colors of the moment: cappuccino. So romantic and modern.
THE VENUE
Founded in 1902 and boasting more than 26,000 acres, it’s easy to see why Kendal and Swayze chose BERRY COLLEGE for both their wedding and reception at Ford Dining Hall. Rich history and stunning architecture dominate both spaces. Originally used for student dining, Ford Hall’s sweeping windows and buttressed ceilings make for a stunning reception. Berry College is also home to Frost Chapel, another option for a scenic ceremony.
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM | 157
STYLISH CELEBRATIONS
GETAWAY CAR
A 1920 Ford Model A served as Kendal and Swayze’s car as they made their way from the church to the reception, and again as their getaway car. At the reception, friends and family signed and decorated a “Just Married Kendal & Swayze” magnet that stuck to the car’s rear bumper, with a trail of tin cans and pink hydrangeas following close behind.
FIRST LOOK
Choosing the most special moment of the day can be difficult for some brides, but not for Kendal! “I’ll never forget the look on Swayze’s face when the doors opened and we saw each other for the first time as my dad led me down the aisle,” she said. “We were both so excited and happy to know that in just moments we would be united as one!”
Party Pros VENUE Berry College, CATERING Two Can Do, pHOTOGRApHY Paris Mountain Photography, FLORAL Busseys of Rome, Dj Scott Productions, MUSICIAN Sam Hunt, VIDEOGRApHER Jody Caldwell, CAKE Honeymoon Bakery
158 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
pARTING FAVORITES
UNCAP YOUR GRATITUDE Around here, we love a practical party favor. Something that you just might use -- need we even list the utterly useless favors available out there? This issue, we’d like to present you with one such practical, totally customizable, crowd-pleasing-favor: CUSTOM OpENERS. They’re the bottle openers perfect for starting those celebratory toasts. THE MANY USES As the nature of this feature might indicate, we love these openers as party favors. Think wedding reception, backyard BBQ or even a birthday party. We’re sure guests wouldn’t mind a refreshing beverage and one of these inside their welcome bags, either. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional place cards, these openers could be just the thing you’re looking for. Attach a ribbon and name card to the openers and you’ve done double duty! A great way to kick off cocktail hour. We imagine that a custom opener and a six pack of choice would also be a welcome hostess gift, indeed.
pERSONALIZE THEM When contemplating what text to put on your custom bottle opener, may we suggest a classic monogram? Maybe your wedding or special event date? Well wishes and other sweet sentiments for guests to remember your big day by would be perfect, too. Choose from green, black, blue or red ink and any number of fonts to suit your personality.
pRICE pOINT You might be wondering, how much are these openers going to affect my budget? We’ll be honest with you, with a price point ranging from $18.95 - $23.95, they certainly aren’t right for a wedding of 400. Consider this favor for a smaller destination wedding, rehearsal dinner thank you or surprise birthday party memento. Your guests and your wallet will thank you. With five bottle opener styles available, we’re certain you’ll find one with your name all over it. However, if you want to gift them, one thing’s for sure -- you’re on your way to a gift that keeps on giving. Cheers! Visit www.customopeners.com for more information.
160 | THE MAGAZINE FOR CELEBRATING IN STYLE
THERE’S MORE TO THIS MAGAZINE THAN WHAT’S IN YOUR HAND....
FIND NEW CONTENT ONLINE, EVERYDAY. LOCAL SERVICES • MORE REAL EVENTS • PHOTO GALLERIES
OCCASIONSONLINE.COM
OCCASIONSMAGAZINE
OCCASIONSONLINE.com
WINTER 2012