VIP WEDDING VENUE
S TO RY BY L I E S E L S C H M I DT P H OTO G R A P H Y C O U RT E SY O F C ATO C T I N C R E E K
The historic century-old building that now houses Catoctin Creek Distillery has taken many forms over the years. It was originally built as a car dealership in 1921 and called the “Case Building” for the Case family who owned it for more than four generations. The building went through several transformations and reinventions before it was ultimately purchased by Catoctin Creek owners, Scott and Becky Harris, in 2012. With so much history preserved in the building, which was renovated and restored to respect its Art Moderne style, Catoctin Creek’s home base is an incredible venue for events of all kinds—including weddings. Naturally, the whiskey is a huge draw. But the building is a love story in itself, being the passion project of a couple who founded their business on a commitment to each other and desire to create a legacy. “Couples want to have their weddings with us because, firstly, they love the whiskey,” Scott notes. “All of our wedding parties have been fans of the spirit, of course. Looking at it as an event space, our venue is a small, intimate setting that is also incredibly unique. Because of that, a wedding here is really special and unique.” 120 W MAIN ST, PURCELLVILLE, VA 20132 • (540) 751-8404 WWW.CATOCTINCREEKDISTILLING.COM
64 • VIP ALEXANDRIA MAGAZINE
Truly, the space itself is something to behold. “We have a beautiful Art Moderne tasting room, thoughtfully decorated consistent to its 1921 origins,” Scott explains. “The end-cut wood floor tiles, the huge horseshoe shaped bar, the original glass and doors—they all make for a really special rehearsal dinner or reception. And most of our weddings have taken place on the actual distillery production floor, a unique space encased in gleaming copper and stainless steel.” To create an event that is as stress-free as it is unforgettable, the team at Catoctin Creek works closely with each couple in planning their event. “We strive to understand their needs and desires and use that to craft an event that is special for their big day,” Scott says.