The Best of the Best: Our top picks of what North
Georgia has to offer brides
Appalachian Country wants to help you get your marriage off to the right start! We searched all over north Georgia and found romantic venues, mouth-watering food, dreamy dresses and more. We hope this list helps you get started on your plans. Congratulations and best wishes!
Blue Ridge, Ga.
Wrapsody in Blue
Wrapsody in Blue stands out from other interior décor stores because of their attention to detail and a close watch on ever-changing trends. They carry lamps, furniture, window dressings picture frames, eclectic and unusual items like items made out of barrels, such as wall sconces and trays. They offer in-home consultations for decorating and custom orders for specialty items.
Wrapsody in Blue specializes in Vietri dishes, Beatriz Ball and Arthur Court handmade silver dishes, which are food, oven and dishwasher safe. Also, they offer quality furniture. They are open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 6 p.m. and 11:30 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Visit them at 652 East Main Street in Blue Ridge. Check them out online at www.wrapsodyinblueridge.com
Reverend Gena Vandewalker
Now that you've found a venue for the wedding, food for the reception, honeymoon location and furniture for your future home, you're only missing the minister for the ceremony! Reverend Gena Vandewalker can help you out! She is a licensed non-denominational minister that will create a personalized ceremony based on your wants and needs. Her background as a motivational speaker makes her perfect to help you start your lives together. Reverend Vandewalker travels to any location within eighty miles of Blue Ridge to perform ceremonies and even offers her own European-style coffee shop and art/entertainment village for a ceremony.
She performs several different kinds of ceremonies including civil ceremonies, intercultural and interracial ceremonies, commitment ceremonies, holy unions and renewal of vows. She has and will perform Sand Ceremonies, Unity Candle Ceremonies, Jumping the Broom, Rose and Wine Ceremonies, and finds ways to include children and parents in the ceremony. For more information about her wedding options, check out www.weddings.lillypadcoffee.com or www.lilypadvillage.com. Reverend Gena Vandewalker can be contacted at 706-534-1317.
Ellijay, Ga.
Interiors
Interiors and the Christmas House in Ellijay is a business that can furnish and beautify your future home. They carry the perfect accessories for every room: lamps, clocks, tables, candles and candle holders, serving pieces, even flowers. The owner, Elaine Westmoreland, searches for long hours to find great gift items and interior accessories for her customers. The store windows are wonderfully decorated to suggest ways to fit the items into their customers' homes. Interiors wants to make the decorating process as easy and pain-free as possible. Your home can be the showplace you've always imagined it could be. Don't forget that there are rooms filled with just Christmas decor!
New brides can register for gifts with Interiors and they will even deliver to local showers. How amazing to do all your shopping and have it delivered! They also have a baby shower registry available and have a new nursery room full of color with great items for both brides and new mothers. Come by and visit them at 98 River Street Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or call (706) 276-7000.
Party Shop Paradise
Party Shop Paradise can help you plan your entire event in one stop! They've got everything from tableware, invitations, party favors, candles, centerpieces, wall and hanging decorations, balloons and much more. The owner Angie Watts has been in business for over five years and she knows how to treat a customer right. Party Shop Paradise specializes in customer service with a smile. They plan everything from small gatherings to large corporate events and supply everything, even for theme weddings! If you're wedding theme is unusual or you're looking for some dramatic appeal to your wedding, Party Shop Paradise is the place for you!
Every wedding is special, but yours can be truly memorable with Party Shop Paradise. For details, call (706) 276-1877 or visit www.partyshopparadise.com. To discover what they can do for your wedding, visit them at 500 Highland Crossing, Suite 110 in East Ellijay.
Jasper, Ga.
Trouts Beverages
If your reception plans include alcohol, Trout Beverages is a full service package store that provides a vast selection of wine, beer and spirits. They have a full staff to assist in your party planning. With one of the most capable wine experts in north Georgia, Weldon Hooley, on staff, Trouts Beverages can provide wine knowledge and assistance. Gary Lowe, the beer manager, can help with selection and party planning. There's someone to help with everything! Being able to choose from the widest selection around means your event is bound to be a hit! Everyone will be happy to find their favorite drink at your reception.
Trouts Beverages has two locations for your convenience. One store is at the intersection of Hwy. 53 and 515 and the other location is just south of Hwy.108 and 515. Beer kegs are available at both locations and large coolers, keg coolers, wine glasses and a frozen drink machine are available for parties. For details call (706) 253-2950 or (706) 253-2900.
House of Dreams
If you're in the Jasper area and are planning your wedding, House of Dreams is the perfect place to start. They sell wedding and formal dresses as well as flowers, accessories and alterations. They even cater events. It is truly a one-stop shop! The owner, Aime Farrell, says, “We've been doing weddings for fifteen years. We don't subcontract anything out; we actually do everything and help the bride from beginning to the end.” House of Dreams specializes in personalized service and are located at 268 Old Federal Rd. right off Main Street. Call (770) 262-3980 to get started on your dream!
Unique Kitchens
Every home has a kitchen. What every homeowner wants is to have that kitchen leave a great impression on those that enter their home. At Unique Kitchens you'll find everything you'll ever need for a fantastic and one-of-a-kind kitchen. They carry anything a person could want in a kitchen from candles, wall trivets, plate holders, and centerpieces to cookware and appliances.
Unique Kitchen carries Fortessa China, stemware and flatware as well as Park Design dinnerware and accessories, which gives you the ability to mix and match colors. If you want green tea cups and yellow saucers to create an individualized set of china, you can do that. It's possible to have a set of china that is unlike anyone else's! Park Design pieces are of heirloom quality, yet durable enough for everyday use. Unique Kitchens carries several lines of cookware including Bonjour stainless cookware, Circular cookware, and Paula Deen Cookware. They also offer Cuisinart appliances like coffee makers, grinders, wine chillers, waffle makers and many others.
This is a business that aims to please. Unique Kitchens can meet with the bride to discuss her wants and needs in a kitchen and they work to make that happen, even if it means after hours appointments. Brides can register at Unique Kitchens and they'll even deliver the gift to the shower! Unique Kitchens is open 9-6 on Monday through Friday and 9-3 on Saturday in the Village Shoppes at 268 Old Federal Road.
The Chimneys at Big Canoe
The Chimneys at Big Canoe invites you to discover a venue that will help you create a wedding event of truly memorable distinction close to home. The Chimneys is in the mountain resort of Big Canoe (located just one hour north of Atlanta), a beautiful setting perfect for your ceremony. Couples can choose to get married either outside or inside. It features an outdoor stone patio sheltered by Chinese cherry trees overlooking Lake Sconti. Imagine how amazed your guests will be when they are watching their loved ones get married in such great beauty! The actual facility is just as beautiful. The Chimneys building features rich woodwork and rustic fireplaces. All three meeting rooms at The Chimneys Conference Center are connected with doorways and can be used for a flowing reception format. The Ivy and Laurel rooms open up nicely for business meetings or breakout rooms. Guests are able to find accommodations, golf, swimming, hiking and a spa within easy distance.
The Chimneys at Big Canoe is managed by Talk of the Town, Inc. and provides a full service event planning and catering company that's been in business since 1995. For the past three years they have been named Atlanta's Best Caterer by Consumer Choice Awards. They have a variety of choices depending on your taste and budget. If you plan to have alcohol served at your event, you are allowed to purchase your own and bring it into the facility. For a full list of wedding services call (770) 329-0009 or e-mail info@talkofthetownatlanta.com or check out their website at www.bigcanoe.com.
Lakota Cove
For a bit of rustic elegance, try Lakota Cove. Specializing in rustic home décor, Lakota Cove can add an individual flair to your home. As a customer enters Lakota Cove, they are immediately struck by the size of the inventory. There is literally something everywhere you look, and it's all breathtaking. Large leather chairs perfect for curling up next to the fire with your favorite book are nestled into a corner. Hand-hewn log beds invite you to climb up and rest for a while. Such sweet dreams could be dreamt while in such huge and comfortable beds. They'd be perfect for a new bride and her husband! All of the items found at Lakota Cove stay true to the tradition of the American craftsman and the work put into each piece.
Lakota Cove recently introduced a wedding registry to their store. New brides can register for Vietri china, various types of tableware, stemware, flatware, linens, bedding and all sorts of furniture. The owner of Lakota Cove Linda Magness says, “We carry all rustic furnishings and things that young couples can start their lives with and can be passed down for generations. These pieces will last lifetimes.” Lakota Cove is now carrying a new line of cowboy-themed wedding items. The Two Trails line features cake accessories, serving pieces, centerpieces, and other items.
Lakota Cove has recently opened its' doors to wedding showers. Featuring a full kitchen, the dining area is perfect for a bridal shower and can be catered by Lakota Cove or you can bring in your own caterer. There's also a bridal shower discount if a new bride is registered at Lakota Cove. The warm cozy atmosphere would make your event unforgettable. For details and prices, call Lakota Cove at (770) 893-3495. They are located at 230 Old Mill White Road in Jasper.
The Woodbridge Inn
If you're looking for a great rehearsal dinner space, look at the Woodbridge Inn. They have eighteen guest rooms for people looking for a cozier environment than a roadside motel to accommodate their guests. Candle holders and flower vases made of sculptured marble used as centerpieces on the tables can also be purchased as wedding gifts. Handmade by Jasper native (and the former owner of the Woodbridge Inn) Joe Rueffert, the sculptures last a lifetime and will be a family heirloom for generations. Give them a call at 706-253-6293 or visit www.woodbridgeinn.net.
Dahlonega, Ga.
Forrest Hills Resort
Forrest Hills Resort is another great place to host a wedding or reception. In business for thirty-one years, Forrest Hills Resort is a 140 acre resort that features overnight guest accommodations, honeymoon cabins, restaurant, riding stables, fitness room, walking trails, massage therapy and more! Your guests will love riding horses and getting massages! The memories made at your wedding will be about more than just about the ceremony. Thankfully, the bride and groom can relax and enjoy the time spent at Forrest Hills too because they have a full time wedding coordinator to assist in all the details. To better prepare future brides, they are having a Wedding Extravaganza scheduled for February 28.
Forrest Hills is a picturesque setting for an affordable, all-inclusive ceremony and reception site. With two outdoor wedding gardens, they offer variety for every couple. There is also a chapel if the weather doesn't cooperate and there are three reception halls to fit a variety of sizes between 25 and 200 guests. Plus, the luxury cabins have a large hot tub, fireplace, king-sized beds, and more! What a way to begin a marriage. With a hot tub and breakfast in bed, it would be hard to find a more relaxing atmosphere. Honeymoon packages are available which includes candlelight dinners, breakfast in bed, massages, horseback riding, champagne and other amenities. Forrest Hills Resort will exceed your expectations. To find more information check out www.forresthillsresort.com or call 706-864-6456.
Canton, Ga.
Once Upon a Time
Once upon a time, there was a girl who dreamed of a perfect wedding. When that little girl grew up, she called Once Upon a Time. You can't beat Once Upon a Time for wedding planning and coordination. They offer full and partial planning packages as well as consultation and budget planning services. In business since 1999, Once Upon a Time specializes in taking a bride's dream and making a reality. They also offer custom gift baskets for the event guests, creating unique party favors. For the brides that don't want someone to intrude, Once Upon a Time acts like an assistant to the bride, keeping her on track and within budget. For the bride that needs a more hands-on consultant, they offer full service planning. In that situation, all the bride and groom have to do is show up!
They are based in Canton but serve the entire Metro Atlanta area and all of north Georgia. They even travel to Savannah, Tybee, St. Simons and Jekyll Island for their clients. It sounds like it could be pricey, but Amy MacNeill assures the brides that it is affordable. “Most brides seem to think that the planner charges an exorbitant price and then takes over…while some of them might do that, I'm not one of them. I really spend time listening to the brides thoughts and ideas. I want them to have the wedding they want no matter the budget.” Call Amy at 678-662-1275 or visit www.onceuponatimeweddings.biz to start planning!
Chamberhouse
For the new brides with a love for antiques, Chamberhouse is the perfect stop! In business for 35 years, Chamberhouse has been in its current location for 25 years. They carry a wide range of fine gifts, home décor and antiques. A bride could find her “something old and something new” right in this store. Chamberhouse is warm with a family atmosphere that other stores lack because it has been family owned for two generations. Chamberhouse is a large store that specializes in making the customer feel as if the store was put there just for them. A friendly smile is free of charge for all customers! The Chamberhouse also offers complimentary gift-wrapping, personal shopping and layaway for their customers. If a customer can't find what they're looking for at the store, they try and find it for them.
It won't be a problem finding what you're searching for at The Chamberhouse. They carry a large variety of items including the beautiful Pandora jewelry line and European Antique pieces. Imagine starting your new life in your new home surrounded by such beautiful antiques with a rich history! They also have unique items that can be personalized such as acrylic glassware, towels, frames and blankets. The Chamberhouse is located in historic downtown Canton at 145 West Main Street, so stop by and see them!
Jill's Cakes & Bakes
At the ceremony, everyone looks at the bride. At the reception, everyone looks at the cake; it had better be good! For six years, Jill's Cakes and Bakes has been creating delicious works of art. Jill Brown designs custom wedding and groom's cakes as well as other tasty treats. She strives for unique and creative designs in even the simplest sheet cake! A bride would not be disappointed by her creations.
Jill says, “At Jill's Cakes and Bakes each cake is custom designed to exceed your expectations of a cake that is not only beautiful and elegant but delicious too. Guests have been known to sneak a second piece of these amazing cakes. Let us help you create a one-of-a-kind centerpiece that will make your event unforgettable!” You can contact them by phone (678) 493-7277, online at www.jillscakesnbakes.com or on Facebook. Stop by and see Jill at 1558 Marietta Hwy, Suite 120 next to Williamson Bros. BBQ.
The Rock Barn
For an ageless wedding theme, look no further than the Rock Barn in Canton.
Built in 1906 by Augustus Lee Coggins, the worn rocks (from the banks of the Etowah River) and the brightly lit interior make classic photographs that will quickly become treasures. The Rock Barn is owned by the Cherokee County Historical Society dedicated to historic preservation and education. Built in 1906, the Rock Barn is the only existing rock barn left in Georgia. It is part of the original Crescent Farm, a 400-acre cotton and horse farm. The exterior remains the same while the interior has been charmingly modernized while maintaining the architectural integrity of a race horse barn. Amenities include: central heat/air-conditioning, a fully-equipped catering kitchen, restrooms, handicap access, a historic marble pulpit, an 8' x 8'projection screen and integrated sound system.
A reasonably priced venue, the building has a maximum occupancy of 180 and tents may be set up outside on the lawn to extend the facility. The Rock Barn easily accommodates Business Meetings, Family Reunions, Wedding Receptions, and all types of parties. The Cherokee County Historical Society provides twenty tables and forty-five chairs and a sound system for the event. Call (770) 345-3288 for more information.
Downtown Kitchen
Need great food and excellent service at your reception? Call Downtown Kitchen Full Service Catering! They have recently won its very first reader's choice award for Best Caterer of 2009 from Around Canton, so they are highly recommended. The business sprang from customer request for their culinary skills at a special event. Every event catered by Downtown Kitchen Full Service Catering is a reflection of the Downtown Kitchen restaurant.
Chef Zach Kell knows this and knows what he's doing when it comes to food. He holds a bachelor's degree from the Johnson Whales University of Rhode Island and has fifteen years restaurant management and catering experience. He and his staff strive for perfection in every meal. They ensure that everything is prepared fresh and exactly how the customer requested. Using top quality ingredients, their mouth-watering entrees are a huge hit at every event! Chef Kell constantly creates new and exciting recipes for the ever-changing north Georgia market. He along with his talented and highly trained staff bring big city sophistication to an event without the big city prices. Plump shrimp and seafood dishes, Mexican dishes, juicy steaks, mouth-watering pasta, and specialty drinks are just a small amount of food offered by the Downtown Kitchen.
Kim Russo, the event coordinator and catering manager, handles every aspect of the client's events from menu planning, event coordination, and vendor assistance. With thirteen years experience in restaurant service, catering, corporate event planning, and corporate promotions, she has been a valuable asset for Downtown Kitchen for four years. She works hard to maintain a stress-free, well-organized, greater than expected event.
Downtown Kitchen Full Service Catering is a preferred caterer for the state of the art facility at The Northside Hospital Conference Center. The center coordinator, Lorrie Keener, works directly with Kim to ensure that every detail of their clients desires are fulfilled beyond their expectations.
If you appreciate great food, impeccable service, and first class event organization then you're the perfect customer for Downtown Kitchen Full Service Catering. Together the Downtown Kitchen and The Northside Hospital Conference Center is eager to have north Georgia brides come to Canton where they will experience the ultimate wedding event. They can be reached at (678) 386-9593.
Woodstock, Ga.
Canyons Burgers
When most people think of wedding receptions, they envision hors d'oeuvres and champagne, but Canyons in Woodstock has a different view. They bring their special restaurant style to rehearsal dinners and receptions alike. Thick, juicy burgers, loaded with your favorite burger additions make Canyons a good fit for outdoor weddings. Imagine a barbecue of your closest family, complete with a wide selection of chicken and burgers. It would be easy to envision and just as easy to see happen. Canyons takes care of the set up, the preparation and the cleanup so all you have to do is enjoy the party!
They're celebrating their two year anniversary this month, so they are a young and vibrant company that encourages people to get active and “get outside!” They would fit in with a young or a young-at-heart crowd. For the pickier eaters, Canyons offers a wide selection of specialty sandwiches like freshly grilled turkey burgers, veggie burgers or the popular grilled portabella sandwich. Plus, they have grilled or fried chicken salads with house made dressings, and fresh hand battered tenders with Canyons dipping sauce. While your mouth is watering, try some sweet potato fries! For more information, call (678) 494-8868 or (404) 841-9933.
Kara Christian Salon
One thing that is an absolute must-have for a woman's wedding day is a terrific hairstyle. It will be in your photos forever, so you have to make it look good. There's no better money spent than going to someone who knows what they're doing. We found Kara Christian Salon in Woodstock. Based on the belief that customers' needs are of the utmost importance, the entire team of stylists at Kara Christian Styling Studio is committed to meeting those needs. As a result, a high percentage of their business is from repeat customers and referrals.
Their goal is to pamper the clients and bring out their individual, natural beauty. The experienced and talented staff members at Kara Christian Styling Studio are among the most qualified in the industry providing color, a completely new hairstyle or formal up-do, highlights and haircuts.
Located on East Main Street in Woodstock, they are within easy driving distance for most events. But for brides, wedding hair and makeup is provided for the bridal party on and off-site. Haircuts and styles are also available for men and children. They are an exclusive Bumble and Bumble Salon and offer only Bumble and Bumble products.
To receive some of the best service for your hair on your special day, you can schedule an appointment at 678-445-2658, online at www.kcstylingstudio.com or e-mail them at kara@kcstylingstudio.com.
Powder Springs, Ga.
The Sullivan House
The Sullivan House in Powder Springs is an antebellum style house on eight acres of lawns and gardens featuring two Gazebos for ceremonies and a 30' x 60' covered pavilion for receptions with room for additional tenting. There's also a separate bridal room perfect for those intimate memories made during your last moments as a single woman. For fourteen years, the Sullivan House has been a full service venue with caterers, a florist, DJs, photographers, videographer, and event coordinator to make your special day perfect in every way.
The Sullivan House is perfect for a garden wedding and reception. The pavilion shines with thousands of lights making it the perfect setting for a nighttime wedding and reception. The grounds are ideal for a large family style wedding. The Sullivan House has graciously opened its doors and grounds to the public to share and enjoy its southern charm. Call (770) 439-6600 and visit www.sullivanhouse.com for details.