Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Husband and wife team, Brian and Kathy are co-owners and residents of Front Porch Farms. Kathy's grandparents were married 54 years and managed a variety of businesses, inventions, and projects. Her grandfather taught her to always give people more than they expect and believe me, she brings that philosophy to engaged Nashville couples with whom I've spoken. The venue is gorgeous but the service and dedication is also what makes brides teary when they speak of their experience with Front Porch Farms.
I admire their dedication to making their already incredible venue even better. Here are a few additions that will make your 2012 or 2013 wedding even more stunning, enjoyable for your guests and easier to plan!
Photo by Phindy Studios
Photo by Front Porch Farms
What's New at Front Porch Farms by Kathy Best
The outdoor fireplace is great for wedding day s'mores!
"Last summer, we added the outdoor fireplace. We keep the fireplace burning during the entire reception for an inviting hang, warmth on a cool night or a fun time roasting marshmallows and eating s'mores. In the warmer months, decorated with candles, flowers and string lights, it’s the perfect backdrop for a romantic nook, dessert and coffee display or cigar bar. It’s also a great kids area where parents can enjoy the reception while keeping an eye on the little ones nearby."
Photo by Jonathon Campbell Photography
Photo by Jonathon Campbell Photography
Space and parking makes it easier for guests and vendors
This winter, we extended our catering kitchen area, added more space for mingling around the pool during cocktails, built a privacy fence around the parking area, upgraded electricity, and built a new barn for the props, décor and rentals.
More delightful details
We stained the concrete a beautiful rich brown tone, completely remodeled the guest house, added more gorgeous landscaping, built benches, re-finished our church pews, and created some really cool props and DIY decor. Whew!
And there's more! Couples can choose from a professional lighting package, provided by Nashville Audio & Visual.
ABG Notes: Beautiful lanterns and lighting elements add an intimate feel to an open space. (Photo by Front Porch Farms)
Photo by Front Porch Farms
Photo by Front Porch Farms
Full Service - They'll take care of everything for you
Couples can enjoy roundtrip shuttle service from Nashville for their guests or any number of services to make their experience as memorable as possible – even skylanterns or fireworks! And did I mention the staff? We've got a great crew who set up, break down, clean up and all jobs in between. They have talent and experience and they love seeing guests enjoy the results of their hard work.
ABG Notes: Front Porch Farms' staff make sure everything is perfect just for you! Even if it means escorting you with umbrellas! (Photos by Red Letter Days)
Couples who get married at our home follow in our own foot steps and I'm proud of what we have created for them. Not only is it the perfect backdrop for a wedding but it’s a wonderful life full of love for our family. MORE than I could have ever dreamed of or planned for. I think my grandparents would be proud.
Picture by Front Porch Farms
If you would like to see more beautiful pictures from around Front Porch Farms of weddings and shoots they've done, visit FrontPorchFarmsTN.com. When you contact Kathy, please do not hesitate to let her know you heard about her on Ashley's Bride Guide!
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Wedding Venues and Locations
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Thursday, April 12, 2012
Remember when you were little, and to commemorate just how BFF you and your friend were you'd hop into a photo booth and risk your eyesight for a strip of four black and white pictures that you'd tape to your locker or mirror? Now you can commemorate your wedding day with your new BFF (aka new hubby) thanks to an updated version of that old clunky photo booth machine. And this time around, all of your wedding guests will partake in the nostalgia and take home a memorable favor from your special day!
Meet Photo Booth Nashville: A Modern Fun Twist on a Childhood Favorite
Photo: Gray Photography
A guestbook using Nashville Photo Booth pics! Photo: Dove Wedding Photography
About Photo Booth Nashville
Main Contact: Amy Lysyczyn
Website: www.photoboothnashville.com
Phone Number: 615-340-0882
Email Address: sales{at}photoboothnashville{dot}com
Follow them on Twitter: @PhotoBoothTN
Become a Facebook fan: facebook.com/photoboothnashville
How many years have you been in business?
5 years
How did you get started in weddings?
When I got married in 2006, I really wanted a photo booth at our wedding. One of my friends in another state had one and it was a huge hit. My husband met the inventor of the patented Model 12 photo booth at a promotional event and we made the decision to bring them to middle Tennessee, where we remain the exclusive vendor with these patented booths to this day.
Photo: Evin Photography
What do you like most about weddings?
Photo booths at weddings bring people of all ages together from grandparents, who are reminded of the old “dip-and-dunk” photo booths of their childhoods, all the way down to the smallest of kids. At wedding receptions, photo booths not only provide brides and grooms with lasting memories of the fun their guests had, they also allow guests to celebrate together in the most unique way.
What’s your favorite wedding photo and why?
This photo is very special to us for more reason than one. This bride is a cousin of our family. They got married in 2010 at The Parthenon here in Nashville. Tragically, the groom passed away just two days later while they were on their honeymoon. Whenever I look at this photo, it reminds me how lucky we are to be a part of our clients’ most special day, and it punctuates the importance of getting it right and making it special for them. It drives our entire customer service philosophy.
The bride and groom, Casey and Terry, on the left and the bride with her father on the right.
What is your service philosophy?
We did a lot of research before deciding which equipment to purchase when we opened our business in 2007. There’s no question that we offer the BEST photo booths available. The way we’ve developed the reputation as the photo booth company, that all our competitors measure themselves against, is by carefully selecting and training our employees. We make sure the experience we provide is first class and even better than we promise, and we focus on maintaining our relationships with fellow vendors.
We’re on time, we’re professional, our attendants treat our clients’ guests like royalty, and we’re worth every penny of hard-earned money our clients pay to give us the privilege of serving them.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category?
Besides what we said above, NO ONE in middle Tennessee has the equipment to provide as many sittings per hour as we do, and no one else uses dye sublimation printing to produce photos that are of the same quality you’d get at a professional photofinisher.
What attracts brides to your service/company?
The lion’s share of our business comes from referrals, either from people that have experienced our booths at a wedding they have attended, or from a vendor that they’ve hired.
What would previous couples say was the main reason they selected your company?
Most of our previous clients will tell you that their wedding day is no time to settle for cheap imitations. Our spotless reputation as the most trusted photo booth company in middle Tennessee ensures them that once they book us, they won’t have to give it another thought and they can focus on all the other important aspects of their day…like the weather.
Couple got engaged in booth with the help of Nashville Photo Booth
Describe the bride/couple that is most attracted to your service/company?
We cater to clients that want the best. Occasionally we’ll get a call from a potential client that asks us to drop our price to what some of the “open air” or “pipe and drape” companies charge. These aren’t our ideal clients. These “booths” are fine for a child’s birthday party, but our ideal client isn’t interested in having a toy at their elegant affair. I can assure you that you’re not going to convince your caterer to provide your guests with the quality food you insist upon at the same price you’d get take-out pizza for. It’s exactly the same thing.
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors – helpfulness, professionalism, style?
Angela Proffitt – Planner Angela and her team have it together, plain and simple. We have worked with them so many times that they know exactly what we need and what rentals with us involve so it makes it so easy to work together.
StudioWed Nashville – We know it’s not a vendor, but they provide awesome services for not only brides, but to vendors in helping to connect us all and support us.
Designs in Paper – Donette and Steve are so incredibly creative with anything and everything to do with paper! We still can’t get over all the things they can come up with. Most importantly, they are wonderful people that go above and beyond for every single person they work with!
JD’s Music – JD himself just always makes us laugh and is a wonderful person! His talent and reputation speak for themselves. He always thinks of others and is great in the world of referrals for other vendors.
Our favorite venue – This is a difficult question. We’ve been really fortunate to have worked regularly at all the finest venues in town including Belle Meade Plantation, Lowe’s, Gaylord Opryland, Bridgestone Arena, Riverwood Mansion, Country Music Hall of Fame and many more. It’s impossible to choose on this one. I guess we’re really lucky to have so many that have been so good to us.
Does your company do anything special that a green, eco-conscious bride might want to know?
I suppose we’re a pretty eco-friendly vendor. We use a little bit of electricity and there’s no waste by-product to our service. We literally take only pictures and leave only memories!
Photo: Mary Claire Crow Photography
Contact Amy at Photo Booth Nashville for your photo booth and tell her that you heard of her on ABG!
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Reception Entertainment, Photo Booths
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Monday, March 26, 2012
Rhonda Patton continually amazes us with the work she does to transform weddings to meet the bride's vision. Sometimes, photos do not speak enough for the person behind the work. Who is Rhonda? Why does she love to work with wedding design? How has she developed her skill? We asked her all of these questions, but really... her work does speak for itself, the words just explain what isn't seen in the picture.
Her style really speaks to the stylish, modern bride who wants a fresh look - especially if it's something unique! Read on to find out more about Rhonda Patton Weddings and Events; the woman that drives the company and the beautifully transforming work that could make your wedding a dream come true.
About Rhonda Patton Weddings & Events
Main Contact: Rhonda Patton
Blog: rhondapattonweddings.typepad.com
Phone Number: 615-727-4429
Email Address: rpattondesigns{at}gmail{dot}com
Follow on Twitter: @RhondaPatton
Become a Facebook Fan: Rhonda Patton Weddings & Events
Photo by The Collection
How many years have you been in business?
10 years
How did you get started in weddings?
First, I began designing interiors for homes and offices. I branched off into fresh floral design and event design beginning with my first wedding in 2003.
Photos by Townsend Photographers
Photo by The Collection
What do you like most about weddings?
Transformation! I simply love to transform. Weddings are all about transformation.
What’s your favorite wedding photo/video? Why?
I personally do not have a favorite wedding photo or video. I love all of my weddings! I ensure my weddings are not too “contrived” and really strive to help the bride think outside of the box.
Photos by The Collection
What is your service philosophy?
I’m quality driven and believe great customer service is the platform for any business.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? Why should a bride hire you?
I am not your standard retail florist. As an event designer, I’m capable of ensuring the bride focuses on the total ambiance of her wedding. I custom order Grade A flowers and quality products for each client. I ensure the bride has a signature wedding of her own.
Photo on left by Townsend Photographers; photo on right by Phindy Studios.
What attracts brides to your service/company?
My clients have molded me into the designer I am today! My brides have an affinity for modern design. They like fresh, innovate, contemporary concepts. My brides are stylish and super chic and hire me for my modern style.
What would previous couples say was the main reason they selected your company?
I’ve heard so many times before that I am different. I bring fresh ideas to the table. I try to shy away from contrived “flowers in a vase” look. Every bride is not for me. but for sophisticated, truly modern brides, I am a top contender.
Photo by Kristyn Hogan
Describe the bride/couple that is most attracted to your service/company?
The bride that is most attracted to my company is a real modern bride who wants nothing normal. They like a little tradition but they mainly want fresh, innovative concepts. They want something new and look to me for creativity. I propose unique ideas, concepts and decorative pieces. My inventory is modern and stylish. I’ve been told that my style reminds them of Atlanta, Chicago, California, or New York.
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors – helpfulness, professionalism, style?
Unlike others, I personally do not have favorite vendors. I think vendor selection is based on an array of criteria for that particular bride (personality, budget, style, competency, customer service, cultural competency, reputation, experience, etc.).
Photo by Derek Wayne Lee Photography.
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Details, Design & Florals, Luxury Nashville Wedding Finds
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Monday, March 19, 2012
Introducing...Our new vendor, Joon Powell Photography! Joon is a professional, experienced photojournalist that began to document weddings five years ago. She prides herself in capturing the moments that everyone will want to remember, the highlights of the day, and the real emotions as they break through. She has a fun personality that is sure to set a bride at ease and be a joy to work with.
Read on to find out more about her experience and why she loves shooting weddings as much as she love capturing front page news.
About Joon Powell Photography
Main Contact: Joon Powell
Website: http://www.joonpowell.com/weddings
Phone Number: 252-333-8982
Email Address: joon.powell{at}gmail{dot}com
Become a Facebook fan: Wedding Photography By Joon Powell
How many years have you been in business?
5 years
How did you get started in weddings?
I have been a photojournalist for well over a decade, so shooting weddings in the documentary style was a natural choice for me. I started out assisting wedding photographers.
What do you like most about weddings?
I love learning about traditions that are woven into the ceremony which make it unique to that couple. I love being close to families during such a special time.
What’s your favorite wedding photo and why?
Of course my favorite photo changes all the time but this one has some permanence for me. The bride (Anice) was surrounded by her friends and family in the hours before the ceremony. They formed a circle and prayed together. I thought it was very sweet how that moment not only celebrated her big day but all the people who helped her get there.
Joon's favorite photo.
What is your service philosophy?
Let moments unfold organically. Nothing is more beautiful than life’s real events. Look. Listen. Pay attention.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? Why should a bride hire you?
As a documentary photographer, I can seamlessly fit into most any situation. I have an eye for those special moments which might otherwise be lost.
What attracts brides to your service/company?
I am easy to work with and I make beautiful photographs which can be enjoyed for generations.
What would previous couples say was the main reason they selected your company?
They wanted someone unobtrusive who would capture candid moments.
Describe the bride/couple that is most attracted to your service/company?
DIY, multi-cultural, sentimental
Who are your favorite Nashville wedding vendors – helpfulness, professionalism, style?
Make-up Artist | Jenelle Adams
Planner | DandyLion Events - dandylionevents.com
Invites | Hatch Show Print - countrymusichalloffame.org/our-work
Traditional Invites | Buchanan Ink - buchananink.com
Cake | Sweet 16th Bakery - sweet16th.com
Cake | Whole Foods - wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/nashville
Hair Stylist | Carmen Allison at Platinum Salon East - platinumsaloneast.com
Custom-made Clothing or Alterations | Jessica Maros - wearsleeveless.com
All photos by Joon Powell Photography.
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Photography
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Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Food is an important part of every wedding reception. It helps keep your guests happy and can also help set the tone and feeling of your event. Down South Delights can help you achieve whatever menu you want for your big day. If you are searching for a Nashville wedding caterer, take a few minutes to learn more about Down South Delights via our interview below.
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About Down South Delights, LLC:
Main Contact: Rita Rowland
Phone Number: (615) 513-9147
Email Address: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Visit their website: DownSouthDelightsCatering.com
Become a Facebook fan: Down South Delights
How many years have you been in business?
8 years
How did you get started in weddings?
When I completed culinary school I noticed that there just were not a lot of opportunities in my area for female chefs at the time. This has changed since, but back then women in the kitchen were assigned to baking/pastry work or prep, rarely as an executive chef.
I loved weddings and creating beautiful food so I decided that catering was the route for me. Previously, while working on my bachelors degree in International Business, I had worked as a catering assistant and pastry chef so I had experience in the catering industry. I opened Down South Delights in 2003 and catered one wedding that year. I had only one employee other than myself and now I employ around 25 people. Eight years later and we catered around 150 weddings in 2011!
It has been so amazing that I would not trade it for any other culinary job in the world.
What do you like most about weddings?
My favorite aspect of weddings is the joy and excitement of the day. It is a special time for the couple, their families, and the guests who come to partake in their special moment. Each wedding is unique and I love the special touches couples create for their weddings.
What’s your favorite wedding picture and why?
Wow, having to choose just one is really tough! If I have to choose one, it is of a sushi display that we created several years ago. I love when clients choose items that are not our normal, daily menu items, as the challenge is always fun. A friend of mine created the display pieces for the table and I love making sushi.
What is your service philosophy?
Our service philosophy is, "Your day, your way!". We want the clients wedding to be about their personal style and to reflect them as a couple. So we do not place limitations or discourage their ideas. I do offer suggestions if I see something that will be logistically difficult or if an idea can further personalize their experience.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? Why should a bride hire you?
A bride should hire Down South Delights for a variety of reasons: DSD's primary focus is on weddings so we have the knowledge and experience that it takes to properly execute a reception. I also offer our clients a level of personal attention that is second to none. We like to get to know each couple and develop a relationship with them as this will be the most important day of their lives. I am always here to answer their wedding related questions even if they are not food related.
Over 90% of our catering is wedding receptions, so this gives us a huge advantage over other companies that may have a full scale restaurant or have many other catering engagements. I think one of our biggest strengths is the fact that we are constantly evolving as a company. My staff is full of young ladies who are up-to-date on current styles and trends, which we incorporate into our displays and menus.
Our staff has such a wide range of food knowledge that we can create anything that a couple envisions or requests. A large number of local chefs and caterers from upscale establishments have called upon us to handle their receptions because of the endless selections we can offer our clients. I've had couples that want to integrate both of their cultures into the menus and we've created a complimenting menu that showcases dishes without clashing or seeming mismatched.
While our name implies that we specialize in southern cuisine we really do not have a particular specialty. We try to make everyday favorites pop and add exciting elements. Whether you are looking for an old fashioned, southern inspired menu or very modern, haute cuisine we can definitely accommodate.
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors – helpfulness, professionalism, style?
Liberty Party Rentals (http://libertypartyrental.com/) ~ They are very professional and always there for any last minute orders. They are super helpful to all of our brides and very informative about assisting with sizes, room layouts, and the setup team is amazing!
Details by Margaret (http://www.detailsbymargaret.com/) ~ She is a personal friend and I just love working with her. She has this bubbly personality that just makes you smile and she is super organized. We worked together on a dozen or more weddings this year and she has great, innovative details for her clients. For example, at a reception this September she had a real tree at the entrance with photos and such, instead of the typical framed pictures on a table.
Scoobie's Photographic Images (http://www.scoobiephoto.com/) ~ I've worked with them on many occasions and he always bring a great team with him. All of my clients are super pleased and the prices are great. I can say, that I will hire him for my own wedding images.
Houston Station (http://www.eventsnashville.net/houston/) ~ This is one of my favorite venues in the Nashville area. The staff here are so helpful and they really make it simple for us to handle our tasks. The value is amazing and they are very accommodating to all of our clients. While other venues put so many stipulations on the client that it dampers their fun with planning, Houston Station is there to assist with all their needs.
Rhonda Patton (http://www.rhondapattonweddings.com/#) ~ I've worked many events with Rhonda including her sister's wedding a few years ago. Her style and attention to detail is fabulous. The colors and designs that she uses in all of her floral design are really inspiring. Her bouquets are my favorite and when you take a look at her site or blog you will definitely agree! She has a true flair for modern design and ingenious creations for the luxe bride.
What advice would you give to brides on the wedding planning process in general?
I tell all of our clients to enjoy choosing your vendors - this is one of the most exciting elements of the planning process, so have a great time doing it and do not stress if it takes time to find the perfect fit for a particular vendor. I know that is point is said a lot, but make sure you connect with your vendors. You will be working with these people for at least several months so you need to make sure that it will be an enjoyable experience!
Another thing I like to remind our clients: Do not let other people dictate your choices. It is great for friends and family to offer advice or suggestions, but this is your wedding. Make sure that you are happy with every element of your day as you, the couple, are getting married!
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What would be doing if you did not work in weddings?
If I was not in the wedding industry, I would own a confectionery (candy) company. I've always wanted a large factory that makes all kinds of chic, gourmet candies. I make candy as a hobby and a friend who works for the CEO of Louis Vuitton, Yves Carcelle, let him sample some of my candies. When he personally called me to let me know how great they were, I almost died! So if I ever retire from weddings, making yummy confections will be my next endeavor for sure.
Contact Down South Delights today for all of your wedding and event catering needs! And just for our ABG readers - receive a complimentary menu tasting (a $100 value)!
All images courtesy of Down South Delights.
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Posted by Newlywed Sara |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Cakes & Food
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