Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Okay, so you’re searching for the perfect venue. And you’ve been to all types of weddings at all the typical locations: the ballroom, the church gym, the neighbor’s backyard and the destination wedding in the sand. Fortunately for you, we’re in the South. We can choose from some of the biggest antebellum-style mansions to the most charming Victorian-style houses. Here are some stand-outs if you are looking outside-the-box for your wedding celebration.
Picture by McCoy Made
Front Porch Farms
Address: 1188 Ben Collier Road, Charlotte, TN 37036
Telephone: (615) 394-1838 (Ask for Kathy)
Website: FrontPorchFarmsTN.com
Capactiy: up to 250 (outdoor)
I’ve gushed a bit about Front Porch Farms before – from their beautiful landscaping to their main house and 3400 square foot pavilion. I went back to their website and drooled over some of the pictures in their wedding galleries – they’re just a special “something”, a little extra oomph, a little extra sparkle that gives this venue a cozy, family-feeling. Not to mention, for a southern belle who desires the quintessential southern wedding this house is the perfect place to be.
Cedarwood
Telephone: 615-876-9999
Address: 3831 Whites Creek Pike, Nashville, Tennessee 37207
Website: CedarwoodWeddings.com
Capacity: 175
Although I’ve never myself had the opportunity to visit Cedarwood, it’s got to be one of my favorite venues just from the pictures. The 1830’s home is as beautiful as the surrounding land. And okay, so we’ve all seen The Notebook, can’t you picture Allie and Noah getting married there? Don’t forget that Cedarwood offers all-inclusive packages to keep brides’ stress to a minimum.
The Red House
Telephone: 615-435-3503
Address: 138 Third Avenue North , Franklin, TN 37064
Contact: Heidi Tucker, Event Coordinator
Website: OurRedHouse.com
Capacity: 150 guests
The Red House is 130 years old packed with that “special” feeling. It may be a historic house but the inside is filled with modern, trendy décor. Outside, you can have your sweet, southern ceremony and on the inside you can have your slick, chic party. And let’s not forget the rock’n’roll memorabilia on display throughout the house for those with an edgier appeal.
Lillie Belle’s
Telephone: 615-595-9557
Address: 132 3rd Avenue South, Franklin, TN 37064
Website: LillieBelles.net
Capacity: 200 guests
Pictures by Lillie Belles
Lillie Belle’s is a historic, Victorian style house with a drop of fairy-tale charm. It reminds me of the dollhouse every little girl always wanted, but instead of your Barbie dolls marrying Ken, you can have your own real-life, enchanted wedding here. There are several different packages to choose from to suit brides with all different needs.
Spring Haven Mansion
Telephone: 615-826-9702
Address: 545 East Main Street, Hendersonville, Tennessee 37075
Website: SpringHavenMansion.com/History.htm
Capacity: 200+ guests
Getting married at Spring Haven would be like getting the chance to be Scarlett O’Hara for a day. It’s a plantation home with a pre-civil war history and they also offer an array of packages to fit all brides’ needs. And their suggestion, of using the on-site cabin as an overnight retreat for you and your bridesmaids the night before the wedding was the dealmaker for me.
Ambrose House
Telephone: (615) 228-7649
Address: 122 South 12th Street, Nashville, TN 37206
Website: EventsNashville.net/ambrose/
Capacity: 60-85
This house looks like it was plucked straight from a Charlotte Bronte novel. It’s one of those houses that exudes warmth and affection. Whether you want to use the house for a rehearsal dinner, engagement party or for the “I dos”, it’s not a problem. The house was designed by the Ryman Auditorium’s architect, Hugh Cathcart and is the absolute essence of a Victorian-style inspired wedding.
The Baber House at Kennesaw Farms
Telephone: 615-452-8484
Address: 1000 Kennesaw Boulevard, Gallatin, TN 37066
Website: KennesawFarms.com/getdoc/666f15a1-504b-4033-a3a0-fc817fcc6a9e/Weddings
Picture from the Baber House online
Elegance, sophistication and flawlessness. Those are just three of the words I would use to describe The Baber House. Its history of once being a thoroughbred horse farm just adds to its charisma. With its original floors and every sleek, clean and historic touch, it’s a perfect place for an everlasting memory.
Riverwood Mansion
Address: 1833 Welcome Lane, Nashville, TN 37216
Telephone: 615-228-8892
Website: RiverwoodMansion.com
Capactiy: 250 maximum
Riverwood is one of middle Tennessee’s “grand” mansions. Its eight-acre grounds are filled with lush gardens and they have a wide variety of rental items on-site. It’s another great place for a one-stop shop, with their professionally-trained staff and Nashville’s only tented pavilion.
CJs off the Square
Address: 218 3rd Ave. North, Franklin, TN 37064
Telephone: (615) 216-7576
Website: CJsOffTheSquare.com/
Capacity: up to 135
Picture by Gray Photography
What I love about CJs is although it’s known for its summery-spring garden weddings – they have a beautiful historic home AND can accommodate winter/fall brides as well. They’re very much into personalization and attention to detail – just go read some of their client reviews, you’ll be more than impresses. One word that you’ll see over and over again is “intimate”. Could there be a more perfect word to describe the most romantic day of your life?
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Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Obviously, garden venues are perfect for spring and summer, but what else? Well, when I think gardens I think beautiful evening strolls, Alice in Wonderland inspiration and fairy tale touches. There are so many themes to choose from or come up with when you have such a pure surrounding of flowers, greenery and the sun. So, I did a little digging and found some of Nashville’s greatest garden wedding venues.
Image by Shots by Cheyenne
Front Porch Farms
Telephone: (615) 394-1838 (Ask for Kathy)
Website: FrontPorchFarmsTN.com
Image by Kristyn Hogan
How does 32 acres of green pastures sound? The perfect backdrop to a garden-inspired wedding would be the scenery Front Porch Farms offers. The property includes the main house, guest house, fishing pond, pool, barn and a 3400 square foot pavillion. They pretty much have anything your heart could desire; and an outdoor wedding can accommodate up to 250 guests. Double plus – go to their website and read some of their “Love Stories”, they are super sweet and will get you super pumped for your big day.
CJ’s Off the Square
Telephone: (615) 216-7576
Website: CJsoffTheSquare.com
Images by The Collection
Not only does CJ’s use your personality to bring your wedding to life, it’s simply beautiful. For brides who want to feel close and intimate to your groom and your guests. Request a brochure on their website and add them to your list of possibilities. Their home and garden area can accommodate up to 135 people and complete wedding packages start at $6995. But don’t assume CJ’s is for strictly spring/summer weddings, they can put on a warm, whimsical winter wedding if that’s your fancy.
Southall Eden Farm
Telephone: 615-775-4080
Website: SouthallEden.com
This is the perfect venue for a touch of nature with a little bit of your country roots to kick it up a notch. And maybe you just want to take your pictures outside? Well, they have a barn loft where you can exchange your vows if that’s your preference. It has enough down-home flavor to feel comfortable but it has enough beauty to remind everyone that it’s your special day.
Southall Eden images by The Photographix
Cheekwood
Address: 1200 Forrest Park Drive Nashville Tennessee 37205
Telephone: 615-354-6377
Website: Cheekwood.org/Private_Events/Weddings.aspx
Image by Donald Yeager
Yes, I’ve bragged about Cheekwood in a previous post but it’s not only a great choice for a venue it's also one of Nashville’s gems. And they have an array of facilities for any type of bride or party size. I’ve mentioned before that the Reflection Pool was one of my favorite areas so this time I’ll show some love to the Herb Garden. It can seat around 125 people and it’s just so pretty!
Sunken Garden at Centennial Park
Address: 511 Oman Street, Nashville, TN 37203
Telephone: 615-862-8400
Website: Nashville.gov/parks/newsevents/planning_events.asp
Image courtesy of Chip Curley on pBase.com
Most people think Centennial Park + Looking for a wedding venue = Parthenon. Which, in my opinion is a super, cool place to be wed but they have more options! For example, their sunken garden is filled with beautiful flowers for a bride who always wanted an outdoor wedding sponsored by Mother Earth. And their fees are more than reasonable. Just in case you’re scared of rain on your wedding day (don’t sweat it because it’s supposed to be a sign of good luck) couples can also reserve the Pavilion.
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Tuesday, April 5, 2011
One advantage to having your wedding at a hotel is the convenience of having an on-site coordinator and a lot of items on your list included in their packages. Each hotel has their own list of services and if your style and preferences can be achieved within the ballroom atmosphere and you are seeking a less tedious planning process, hotels may just be the way to go for your big day!
Images courtesy of Doubletree Hotel Nashville
Doubletree Hotel
Telephone: 615-244-8200, 615-747-4800 (Maggie Moran – wedding manager)
Address: 315 4th Avenue North, Nashville, Tennessee
Email: maggie.moran2 at hilton dot com
Website: doubletree1.hilton.com
Images courtesy of Doubletree Hotel Nashville
If you’re a bride that wants a contemporary setting, Doubletree may be in the running. The location is great; it neighbors with the same theatre that’s hosted some of the greatest plays and musical guests. So here’s an idea, get the in-laws some tickets to TPAC. They can rest easy at the hotel and walk over to see a show. Whoever said buttering up to the new family extension was a bad idea?
Hilton Garden Inn Vanderbilt
Telephone: 615-369-5900
Address: 1715 Broadway, Nashville, Tennessee 37203
Email: BNANV-SALESADM at hilton dot com
Website: hiltongardeninn.hilton.com
Images courtesy of Hilton Garden Inn Nashville
What’s great about Hilton Garden is their view. Their terrace has the perfect view of the Nashville skyline that's great for a cocktail hour. Hilton offers banquet catering services AND audio visual equipment. And let’s not forget their honeymoon suite overlooking Music Row.
Embassy Suites – Cool Springs
Telephone: 615-515-5151
Address: 820 Crescent Centre Drive, Franklin, Tennessee 37067
Email: stacey.baker at jqh dot com
Website: embassysuites1.hilton.com
Images courtesy of Embassy Suites Cool Springs
Embassy Suites are known for their lovely atriums, so they’ve got the relaxed vibe in the bag. Even if you just want to have your rehearsal dinner at Embassy, they’ll do it for you. They have a catering specialist to help you with your menu and an entire staff devoted to lessening the pressure of the big day. And just a little plus – the bride and groom gets chocolate covered strawberries and champagne in their rooms afterwards.
View Part 1 for more great hotels in Nashville for your wedding day.
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Thursday, March 31, 2011
While urban spaces and farms are often showcased on wedding blogs as personable wedding venues, hotels are still a popular choice for Nashville weddings. For one, hotels are convenient, especially for those out-of-towners or your friends who may end up crashing there when they’re too tuckered out to drive home after the reception. Second, hotels have experience. They’re used to hosting events and you’ll be able to trust logistics. And third, but not last, hotels have a broad range of relationships, from photographers to florists. They may even have suggestions you didn’t know about. So, if you’re looking for the perfect spot for your wedding celebration, here’s a list of some of Nashville’s finest.
Hutton Hotel
Telephone: 615-340-9333
Address: 1808 West End Ave Nashville Tennessee 37203
Website: huttonhotel.com
Nashville’s West End has a reputation. And that reputation includes words like fashionable, lively and full of flair. If you want your wedding to be described in the same way, why not plan for your nuptial home to be at the Hutton? The hotel is just plain hip, with no better words to describe it. Their Grand Ballroom even includes 14-foot windows overlooking downtown Nashville. And let’s not forget their private spa rooms, where you can rest easy before the big day.
Renaissance Nashville Hotel
Telephone: 615-255-8400
615-493-4149
Address: 611 Commerce Street Nashville, TN 37203
Website: renaissancenashville.com
Image by Renaissance Hotel Nashville
Okay, so I will admit my biased opinion of Renaissance Hotel before going any further. My dad is the general manager there, so my whole life it’s been my go-to for a Nashville night. Not to mention, when my sister got married in 2007, she had her reception there. Obviously, this hotel has a bit of a hold on my heartstrings but they really do offer some great options. The location is great, right in the heart of downtown Nashville, connected to the convention center and right around the corner from the Ryman, Bridgestone arena and short walking distance to all the best clubs and restaurants. And I’ve never had a bad meal there. So, when you get the opportunity to use the on-sight catering team, take it! You’ll even be able to customize the menu. And they’re private banquet rooms can host from 25 to 1,500 guests.
Gaylord/Opryland Hotel
Telephone: 615-458-2152
Address: 2800 Opryland Drive, Nashville, TN 37214
E-mail: weddings at gaylordhotels dot com
Website: GaylordHotels.com
Image by Cala Bridal
I’ve already gushed about Gaylord in a previous post, but what the heck, I’ll do it again. It really represents a balance. It’s the ultimate outdoor wedding, with climate control! And you still don’t even have to get married in the Delta Pavilion or Delta Landing, you can use these areas for pictures and have your ceremony/reception in one of their ballrooms.
Hermitage Hotel
Telephone: 615-458-2152
Address: 231 Sixth Avenue North Nashville, Tennessee
Website: thehermitagehotel.com
Image courtesy of DivineImages.net
Image courtesy of the Hermitage Hotel
So, your vision is to have a vintage-inspired, southern classic wedding. You want convenience, good food and a tradition. Well, Hermitage Hotel has all of that. Just go to their website and take a tour of their hotel through past weddings, maybe you’ll even grab some inspiration. Pay close attention to their ballroom, it’s gorgeous and perfect for those brides that want a little piece of the past. And a little extra FYI, it’s the only 5-diamond hotel in the state of Tennessee.
Sheraton Hotel
Telephone: 615-259-2000
Address: 623 Union Street, Nashville, TN 37219
Website: starwoodhotels.com
Image by PhindyStudios.com
Three words are all you need to know: Newly Renovated Ballroom. And check this out - on their site they’re announcing, “Share your wedding day with Sheraton and your honeymoon is on us.” Worth looking into don’t ya think? Also, they’ll work with your vision to create just what you want, including a menu dedicated to your taste buds.
Loews Vanderbilt Hotel
Contact: Erin WIlkinson
Telephone: 615-321-1930
Email: [email protected]
Website: LoewsHotels.com
Image by Krista Lee Photography
Normally associated with business travelers, the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel is a great place for weddings with its huge ballroom and impecable service. As promised on their website, their staff is there to help you through every detail of your wedding "from choosing the right engraver to dressing your table with exquisite bouquets."
Image by Divine Images Photography
I'll have more great hotel reception sites next week with Part 2 of my favorite Nashville wedding hotels so do remember to check back. If you decide any of these venues is perfect for you, be sure to let them know you heard about them on Ashley's Bride Guide!
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Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Sometimes the most overlooked part of a wedding is how you’re getting to your event! After a little research, we came up with a list of great choices for transportation on your big day. From traditional limos, whimsical carriages to rustic wagons, here's a starting point as you research.
(Service: At Your Service; Image courtesy of Jonathon Campbell Photography)
At Your Service-Chauffeuring
Contact: Reggie Slaughter
Telephone: 615-977-2210
E-mail: reggie at nashvilleweddingcars dot com
Website: At Your Service
Rate: $250-$1200, Call for details
Image by AngelaDisrudPhotography.com
Reggie Slaughter, the CEO and president of At Your Service, started the company two years ago. He acts as “Chauffeur to the stars” and brides. Options include riding in his family’s 1939 black Packard or a 1949 black Cadillac. Whether your wedding is a chic, classy affair or has a vintage vibe, it’s hard to go wrong with these antique beauties. We've heard nothing but great things about his service!
Matchless Limos
Telephone: 615-620-LIMO (5466)
E-mail: sales at matchlesstransportation dot com
Website: MatchlessLimos.com
Rate: Call for details
Service: Matchless; Vintage Jaguar (Image courtesy of McCoy Made Photography)
London Taxi
Limos are synonymous with wedding transportation, so I asked around and Matchless Limos had a lot of great reviews. Of course they have the classic stretch limos, but they have some other, exceptional choices to fit a variety of brides. Some of my favorites include the vintage blue Jaguar, London taxi and the Ford Flex.
Grand Avenue Chauffered Transportation
Contact: Melissa McBride
Telephone: 615-375-3031
E-mail: info at grandavenuelimo dot com
Website: GrandAvenueLimo.com
This Rolls actually belonged to Bing Crosby! (Image courtesy of Alex Bee Photography)
Travel to and from your wedding venues in Grand Avenue's range of vehicles suited to your needs and style. Go regal in the 1965 Rolls Royce (pictured above), grab your girls for a night around town in the Barbie pink stretch Hummer limo, or transport your wedding party or family in the Lincoln limousine.
Sugar Creek Carriages
Contact: Johnny Smit
Telephone: 931-729-7107 , 615-983-2303
E-mail: info at sugarcreekcarriages dot com
Website: SugarCreekCarriages.com
Rate: $400-500 first hour
$100-150 for every additional hour. Call or visit website for details.
The great thing about Sugar Creek Carriages is they offer not only the “Cinderella” style, also known as the Royal Vis –a- Vie carriage, for princess brides. They offer a variety of fun choices like a western-style covered wagon and an original stagecoach for brides who want to add a little country-flavor to their wedding.
F.A.D.D.S Party Bus
Telephone: 615-754-2221
E-mail: faddspartybus at comcast dot net
Website: NashvillePartyBus.com
Rate: Call for details
F.A.D.D.S is a family-owned business that offers a variety of party buses and trolleys for “day of” or even the “night before” for the bachelorette party. We picked out our favorites to show but they offer several different buses, each with their own theme. My personal favorites are the two trolleys. It’s serves as a little piece of retro-metro flair.
Image courtesty of Kate Crafton Photography
Helistar Aviation
Contact: Aaron DeVogel
Telephone: 615-350-1122
E-mail: info at lyhelistar dot com
Website: FlyHelistar.com
Rate: $285-$1250 per hour, billing begins when the engine starts
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(Image courtesy of F.A.D.D.S)
If you want a unique entrance or departure from your wedding, and you’re not afraid of heights, Helistar Aviation is the way to go. They offer four different helicopters depending on your need for seating and budget. Their largest is the Long Ranger, which holds up to 6 people.
Bell Long Ranger 206 L1 (Image Courtesy of Flyhellstar.com)
Tennessee Golf Carts
Telephone: 866-599-2198
E-mail: tgolfcar at bellsouth dot net
Website: TNgolfcartsinc.com
Rate: Call for details
Source: Dove Wedding Photography / Cedarwood Weddings
TNgolfcartsinc.com
Granted golf carts don’t have to be limited to outdoor weddings, everyone has their own special ideas, but they’re perfect for those relaxed afternoon celebrations. Tennessee Golf Carts rents out club cars that seat anywhere from two to six people and also offer a utility size.
East Rider Motorcycle Rental
Telephone: 1 (888) 900-9901
E-mail: rent at eaglerider dot com
Website: EagleRider.com
Rate: Call for details
Vespa GTS 250cc
Eagle Rider Motorcycle Rentals have some of the coolest options when it comes to transportation. They rent out motorcycles, ATV’s, dirt bikes and, my much loved, scooters. They have everything from the Harley Davidson Night Rod to super cute Vespas. Of course renting motorcycles have restrictions, like being 21 years-old and having a valid license. But if you qualify and meet the restrictions, leaving the party in a Harley Davidson Road King could be the icing on the cake for you and your groom.
Harley Davidson Road King
Harley Davidson Night Rod (Vespa/Harley Davidson images courtesy of EagleRider.com)
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