Wednesday, December 22, 2010
As you begin to plan for your wedding, you're probably considering the pros and cons of doing a destination wedding vs. one that's here in town. Maybe you're looking for a more rustic, outdoorsy locale? If that's the case, definitely check out Cajun Lake Lodge. Forty minutes west of Nashville, Cajun Lake Lodge boasts sprawling grounds with a great view of a lake and tons of greenery. They have a huge pavillion in which you can have your reception and an area just outside of it that's perfect for a fire pit or, should you run out of room inside, a tent for more people! They also offer accommodation options for you and your wedding party so you could make a whole weekend out of it!
ABG Vendor Spotlight: Cajun Lake Lodge
The Bon Ton Pavillion at night.
Contact Info
Name: Cajun Lake Lodge
Address: 3135 Hwy 70 E, Burns, TN 37029
Area of Town: West of Nashville, approx 40 minutes
Main Contact: Paula Y Eleazar
Phone Number: 615-441-3973
Email Address: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Facebook fan page: Cajun Lake Lodge
Overview of Venue:
Cajun Lake Lodge is an outdoor event and wedding venue with charming lodging for your private celebration or getaway. Our 35-acre property is the perfect blend of rolling hills and secluded lakes. The rustic attributes and take-your-breath-away setting form a landscape that is perfect for your special day. We have two gorgeous lakes, a pristine pond, scenic nature trails, fast-running creek, charming lodge, romantic lake cabin, and a large indoor/outdoor pavilion
Your wedding may take place on any one of the picturesque spots on the property. The perfect backdrop is up to you. The bridal parties choose either the Cajun Lake Lodge or the Ragin Cajun Cabin to dress and relax on the day of the wedding. Receptions are held in the 2000 square foot Bon Ton Pavilion where you may decorate from country casual to formal elegance. We partner with you, bringing our lifetime of party planning and attention-to-detail style to your dream day.
A huge pool with a great view of the lake.
Website address: CajunLakeLodge.com
Year your business was established: 2010
Your motto/philosophy:
We help you to accomplish the three F's: FLAWLESS, FABULOUS, and FUN. We want you to "let the good times roll".
Payment options accepted:
Package pricing or a la carte.
What options does your venue offer?
~ Ceremony? yes
~ Reception? yes
~ Showers? yes
~ Parties? yes
~ Guest Accommodations? yes
The pavillion is filled with fun tzotchkes
A fully functional house with furnished rooms.
What type of room(s) is available?
Our Bon Ton Pavilion is 200 square feet and has garage door sides, making it the perfect indoor/outdoor venue. Our 4-bedroom spacious Lodge and our 1-bedroom secluded Cabin provide places for the bridal parties to separately dress or provide lodging for the evening before or night of the wedding.
How many people can you accommodate? The Bon Ton Pavilion houses 250, more can be accomodated by the additional use of a tent.
How many events do you take per day?
One wedding per weekend.
Do you provide catering? Are outside caterers allowed?
No, outside caterers are welcome
Is outside alcohol allowed?
Yes
Is an on-site event coordinator available?
Yes
How many people do you have on staff?
All staff are hired per event
What is your pricing model?
Bridal package pricing from $1,500 to $4,000
Room rental fee? Overnight accomodations are in addition to the event and special pricing is offered
Which bride budget do you serve? All
How far in advance should a bride book your venue?
We are new and relatively open for Spring and Fall weddings
Is there an online calendar to view available dates?
Yes
When is the initial deposit/final payment due?
Initial deposit required to hold the date; final payment is due 30 days prior to event.
What else should brides know about your venue?
We are the most flexible venue you will find and you are assured of our undivided attention.
What makes your venue so unique? What do you pride yourself on?
We couple our beautiful (you must see it to believe it) property with our lifetime Cajun flair for partying to bring you your dream day.
Last vacation? We have been all over the world for the last twelve years and we are excited to bring ideas from many different countries to our weddings.
What is your favorite thing about working with brides (or grooms)?
The brides and grooms we are seeing are vibrant, intelligent and budget saavy, making it an ever-challenging, but wonderful growth experience to provide the best for them....in the manner they desire. There is always a surprise in their particular needs and wants....we pride ourselves in being able to accomodate them.
Visit Cajun Lake Lodge online to view their pricing and to schedule an appointment with Paula. Be sure to let her know that we sent you!
Images courtesy of Cajun Lake Lodge and Ashley's Bride Guide.
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Wedding Venues and Locations
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Monday, December 20, 2010
Rarely do I think driving and standing outside in the frigid cold is worth it for anything but I am so glad I braved rush hour traffic on I-65 (as well as some really low temps) to head to the Southall Eden (Farm Wedding Venue) for their Holiday Open House. The barn loft and the new shed are SUPER romantic at night. Boy was I glad to see the Photographix gals because I could borrow their photos to share with you of this oh-so pretty wedding / rehearsal dinner venue!
The shed at Southall Eden is a cozy structure that they can fill with their almost Anthropologie/Restoration Hardware-inspired rental items. They had lamps set up with those beautiful vintage style bulbs that are better exposed than they are hidden by lamp shades.
The shed is perfect as a quiet room to which your guests can escape, or you could leave the door open and have the food set up inside. One of the great things about Southall Eden as a venue is how versatile it can be and how every area, indoors and out can be used in several ways.
The barn loft is something else! They had a mock dinner setting so you could get an idea of how it'll look. Every detail was thought of right down to the linens and flowers. It's perfect if you want a more rustic, country-chic wedding. Upstairs in the loft is great for a small ceremony or for cocktails.
We sipped on cocktails and wine in the loft and kept ourselves warm by noshing on hors d'oeuvres by Jo's Cakes & Catering (JosCakesandCatering.com). The candles and twinkly lights made it really romantic, and thank goodness for space heaters! Let's just say I could still feel my fingers at the end of the evening so that was good.
Shannon and Terri-Ann of Southall are SO good with the details and with the decor. I wanted to live in the shed!
Prior to the Open House, brides had sent in their applications to win $1,000 off a rehearsal dinner package at Southall Eden. The winner was announced that night and had to be present to win so congratulations Susan Wilson! We hope we get to see your rehearsal dinner pictures when the time comes. Susan and her fiance and family are in for a wonderful evening, here is what Southall Eden offers for rehearsal dinners.
Keep up with the events and updates at the Southall Eden website where you can see more pictures of the venue. When you give them a call, be sure to let Shannon or Terri-Ann know that you heard about them from Ashley's Bride Guide!
Pictures courtesy of Photographix
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Inspiration & Trends, Wedding Venues and Locations
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Tuesday, December 14, 2010
i know the importance of finding a great wedding venue. It's crucial and sets the tone for your entire wedding. So, I've asked around and created a list of Urban Wedding Venues in Nashville and Favorite Restaurants for Nashville Weddings. Today, I'm happy to provide ideas for the contemporary bride. Maybe you're modern but don't want to go completely urban/industrial. At the same time, you aren't interested in a hotel wedding but like the chic feel that hotels like the W afford.
I have some ideas just for you! My list below is based on feedback from places Ive visited and insight from our wonderful bridal friends on Twitter and Facebook. These venues are great if you are looking for a venue with many great bulit-in details, sophistication and personality.
Noah Liff Opera Center
Contact: Jessica Sneed
Telephone: 615-832-5242 x3568
E-Mail: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Website: NashvilleOperaCenter.com
Rate: $70 - 500 per hour based on room. Call for details
I have attend several events at Noah Liff Opera Center - from last year's Her Nashville Bridal Brunch to this year's Little Black Dress Revue. Look at how great the event always looks! It's definitely one of my faves.
Venue during day. Pictures courtesy of Kristyn Hogan lifestyle photographer
Venue at night. Pictures courtesy Gregory Byerline Photography
W.O. Smith Music School
Telephone: 615-255-8355
Website: WOSmith.com
Rate: Call for rental rates
The W.O. Smith music school is a place where children from lower income families have the opportunity to learn music for only 50 cents per lesson. The facility has been around since 1984, and now it has opened its doors to us all for our special events. Its auditorium has an open floor plan and a platform stage for you to use to your preference.
Picture courtesy of Lotus Blossom Photography
Durego
Contact: Brandon Thomas
Telephone: 615-259-7952
Website: GaryMusick.com
Rate: Call for rental rates
One of two event facilities run by Gary Musick Productions, the multi-purpose space called Durego is located in Brentwood. Free parking, a huge event space and an event staff that caters to the most luxe of tastes and styles, you'll be well taken care of should you decide you would like to have your wedding there.
Pictures courtesy of Meishach Moore Photographers
Red House
Contact: Laura Hill
Telephone: 615-453-3503 or 615-973-3503
Website: OurRedHouse.com
Rate: $2,500 for Saturday, $1,750 for Sunday
Franklin is full of hidden gems for venues, one of which is The Red House. On the outside, it looks like a cozy house with a quaint garden perfect for outdoor ceremonies but once you enter, it's a clean, modern space which makes the entire venue just wonderful for a wedding.
Pictures courtesy of Gray Photography
I hope this list as well as the others we've done give you a better idea of the various types of venues you can have, and that it helps just knowing that there are plenty of locations in Nashville that will suit your needs. We've got so many great resources at our disposal and we're glad that you're coming to us to find them all. Hope we see lots of pictures of your weddings in these venues soon!
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Wedding Venues and Locations
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Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Whenever someone mentions Buca di Beppo, my stomach starts doing happy little fliips - there's nothing more comforting than a family style meal in this fun, really eclectic Italian restaurant. We mentioned them in our "Favorite Nashville private party restaurants" list last week, and thought it fitting to elaborate a bit more on them today.
Buca di Beppo is a great option for your rehearsal dinner, bridal shower or just a fun night out with the girls (boys for you grooms). Don't forget to order the tiramisu (which Ashley + I love). You can thank us later.
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Contact: Buca di Beppo
Address: 1722 Galleria Blvd
City, State, Zip: Franklin, TN 37067
Area of Town: Cool Springs
Main Contact: Holly Curtiss
Phone Number: 615-778-1321
Email Address: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Website address: bucadibeppo.com
Facebook fan page: Buca di Beppo
Overview of Venue
We serve family-style Italian in an eclectic, vintage setting and offer exceptional group menus and banquet packages. Celebrate your upcoming wedding by holding your rehearsal dinner, shower or bachelorette party at Buca di Beppo. We can accommodate groups of 15-200.
Motto/philosophy: “TO BE THE FIRST CHOICE FOR CELEBRATORY DINING”
Payment options accepted: Visa, Mastercard, American Express & Discover due the date of the event.
What options does your venue offer? Rehearsal dinner, Bridal Shower’s or Bachelorette Parties
What type of room(s) is available? Semi-Private
How many people can you accommodate? Our largest room will accommodate 70 total but we do have capability to have groups of 200.
How many events do you take per day? Unlimited depending on schedule
What are the specialty menu items your establishment features for large events? We offer 7 specialty banquet menus with several options to fit any bride's budget.
Is outside alcohol allowed? Outside wine is allowed however there is a $15 corkage fee per bottle
Is an on-site event coordinator available? Yes
How many people do you have on staff? As needed
What is your pricing model? $23.95-$53.95 per person
Which bride budget do you serve? All
How far in advance should a bride book your venue? I would book as far out as possible to ensure availability.
When is the initial deposit/final payment due? Payment is due directly after event.
What makes your venue so unique? Our venue is unique in the fact that we create a fun environment with great service and food!
What do you pride yourself on? Customer Service
Be sure to let Holly know that you saw their spotlight on Ashley's Bride Guide when you call her about your upcoming dinner/party! See what else Buca di Beppo has to offer on their website.
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Bridal Showers, Luncheons, Parties, Cakes & Food, Wedding Venues and Locations
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Monday, November 29, 2010
Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! For those of you who got engaged over the holiday - Congratulations!!! You found our blog just in time to read our handy-dandy list of private dining venues for your bridal events.
Some brides are hotel brides, others urban loft brides. But regardless of where you choose for your wedding location, you will likely need a restaurant to host your many special occasions from your engagement party to your rehearsal dinner or even holiday parties!
Believe me, it's not easy to find a great restaurant that can accomodate private parties with a smile. But our list is a great start. What's even better is that many of these restaurants can accommodate your wedding reception (if thats of interest) or can cater your event if you choose another locale.
Here are some of our favorites and favorites suggested by Nashville wedding planners...
Mere Bulles
Contact: Carlin McQuiddy (Wedding Coordinator)
Telephone: 615-467-1945
E-Mail: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Website: MereBulles.com
I am a HUGE fan of Mere Bulles. They have A++++ service and go above and beyond to ensure that you enjoy your service as much as you enjoy their food. I went for a 12:30pm brunch at Mere Bulles last week and the atmosphere and staff were so great that I continued my meeting until their 6pm dinner! No kidding. I sat at the same table for about 8 hours. Their staff didnt kick us out. They were so hospitable and kept filling our water, asking if we needed anything. I expected to be asked to leave but they didnt, They kept serving us. And once they really closed, we continued our conversation in the parking lot for another 30 minutes. I noticed my waiter, Bill, coming towards me with my to-go bag! I was amazed that he was unfazed by us taking his table hostage all day and still brought my food outside. UNREAL service.
PLEASE add Mere Bulles to your list of private party venues to consider. You will not be disappointed. In fact, you will probably quickly become a fan just like me!
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Picture courtesy of MereBulles.com
Picture courtesy of Jonathon Campbell Photography
Buca Di Beppo
Contact: Holly Curtiss
E-mail:[email protected]
Website: Bucadibeppo.com
Buca di Beppo is, on a normal day, known for it's family-style Italian dining. Heaping portions of delicious appetizers and entrees, you know you'll leave completely satiated at the end of your meal. Specifically for rehearsal dinner, parties or showers only (no wedding receptions) they offer a semi-private room for your event and feature seven specialty banquet menus from which you can choose.
You'd be very surprised at how affordable their party options are. Think bridal shower, bridesmaid luncheon or rehearsal dinner. Good food, great location, awesome value! I'm a picky eater and even I loved their food:).
Pictures courtesy of Buca di Beppo
The Mad Platter Restaurant and Catering
Contact: Margo Brownson (Catering Director)
Telephone: 615-252-2563
Website: TheMadPlatterRestaurant.com
The Mad Platter is one of Tabitha's favorite restaurants. You all know she's a fan of good, quality food and she could NOT stop raving about how great every meal she's had at the Mad Platter has been and loves the fact that they are a very green-minded business. Located in Historic Germantown, The Mad Platter is a really romantic spot and the food will not disappoint.
Stoney River
Contact: Kristen Lee
Telephone: 615-340-9550
Website: StoneyRiver.com
Pictures courtesy of Jonathon Campbell Photography
We received rave reviews from some wedding vendors who were hired for a wedding at Stoney River. Great service, excellent food and everything was on time and efficient. Stoney River is an intimate, almost formal looking venue with the pressed linens, stoik wood tables and ambient lighting, perfect for smaller weddings or rehearsal dinners where you are surrounded by those nearest and dearest.
Who doesnt love Stoney River? Add it to your list!
Maggianno's of Little Italy
Contact: Rachael Paul (General Manager)
Telephone: 615-514-0280
Website: Maggianos.com
Hearty, authentic Italian-American fare, elegant rooms and a professional staff, Maggiano's of Italy is one of the lesser known options for celebrating special occasions. The restaurant offers a bar service as well, and has lower rates for children under a certain age. Choose either a seated, served dinner or buffet style.
Pictures courtesy of Maggianos.com
Jimmy Kelly's
Contact: Mike Kellly or Angie Smith
Telephone: 615-329-4349
Website: JimmyKellys.com/privateparties.htm
Pictures courtesy of JimmyKellys.com
Another Nashville institution, Jimmy Kelly's is a wonderful location for a rehearsal dinner or a more intimate gathering for your wedding dinner. They have a patio that can be tented for special events. The interior is like a charming old home with fireplaces and cozy rooms.
Merchant's Restaurant
Contact: Leah McDonald
Telephone: 615-254-1892
E-mail: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Website: MerchantsRestaurant.com
Since switching management this year, Merchant's Restaurant on Broadway in Downtown Nashville has taken on new life - from the same people who started the Patterson House, Merchant's Restaurant is now much more sophisticated in style and service and may just be the perfect spot for your event.
Pictures courtesy of MerchantsRestaurant.com
These are just a handful of restaurants in Nashville as suggested by brides and people in the wedding community. Contact their banquet/event coordinators for more details on having your event at their venue, and be sure to let them know that you saw them on Ashley's Bride Guide! Big thanks to Jonathon Campbell Photography, Hillary Capes-Smith and everyone else for sharing their favorite restaurants with us on Twitter and Facebook! Feedback from local wedding professionals is priceless and is hugely appreciated by us and our brides.
If you have a restaurant you love for weddings or parties that we didn't list, we'd love to hear from you so please don't hesitate to leave us a comment!
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Bridesmaids & Bridal Party, Wedding Venues and Locations
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