Meditation Bridge at RiverMist

Although we have already had a few weddings on the bridge we are still putting on the finishing touches.

We finally had enough dry days so the stain could be applied. Now we're ready to install the lights and do a little landscaping. The forecast is for temps to be above 100 degrees. Not too much outside work going on today. Except for watering the flowers and the wedding at Lake Norman later this evening.

I do like to remind prospective couples that we are a retreat center and not 'wedding venue'. In my opinion this has many advantages.Weddings are relaxed and not rushed.

Looking to the future.

Here comes the Bride! And the Groom. This will give you an idea of the size of the bridge. Guests normally stand during the ceremony but we do have informal outdoor seating available.

 

 First Dance

 Happily Married!

 

 The meditation bridge is used for individual and small group retreats but easily converts into a 'Wedding' Bridge.

 You may have just found the perfect place for your elopement or small family wedding.

Pet Friendly Wedding Venue in North Carolina

If you're looking for a pet-friendly location for your wedding, your search might be over!

I had the pleasure of traveling to Barkwell's, a dog lover's vacation retreat, a few weeks ago. What a perfect way to include 4 legged family members. Located near Asheville, your canine family is free to run, swim and play on 8 acres of fenced meadows.

And this was the very reason Julie and Brendan chose Barkwells for their family wedding. They simply could not get married without their dogs present. Many of their guests had traveled with their pets as well so it was a fun time for all.

Julie and Brendan wanted a small wedding surrounded by their family and closest friends. The ceremony was originally planned to take place by the pond but because of the walking distance, they decided the cabin deck would be more suitable.

What a smile on Brendan's face when he saw his bride for the first time.

And The Kiss! Oh how they had waited for this. Finally married.

The waiting was over.

 Now they get to live the promises of their wedding day.

"I choose now to stay this path with you,
wherever it leads, whatever the outcome;
to travel with you through the adventures of life,
loving you at my side; in all that we will find,
I pledge my friendship, my faith and my love."

 

Mountain Wedding at Blowing Rock, NC

This is one of the reasons so many couples come to North Carolina to get married. We have it all here mountains, beaches and everything in between!

The weather was perfect for Jennifer and Ori's private wedding at Gideon Ridge Inn in Blowing Rock.

What a love story these two have. And for them, Lyle Lovett sang the words of their heart. We were able to incorporate a few of the lyrics in the wedding ceremony.

   If you love me, say I love you
   If you love me, take my hand

And you can say I love you
And you can have my hand

Although I don't have photos of the ceremony here are a few of their mini-reception. The cake toppers came from Etsy. And, I understand the cake was delicious!

 Jenifer and Ori were quite happy to have a taste.

Marriage license, signed, sealed and delivered.... and in the words of Lyle 

"I pronounce you 99 to life. Son she's no lady she's your wife."

Lauren and Josh are Engaged!

So.... do you want to see a sweet, sweet proposal? Check out this youtube. Lauren is friends with my youngest daughter.

Wedding at The Farm - A Gathering Place

Since I am a traveling minister, I have the opportunity to visit many wedding venues through North Carolina. I'm always excited to add another place to 'my' list of perfect choices.

The Farm, A Gathering Place , near Asheville, has rustic charm, hardwood floors, a huge fireplace and wrap around porches which makes this venue perfect year round. Many couples choose the Farm because of the natural charm, convenience to the city, and the peaceful relaxed atmosphere.

I arrived a little early so I wandered around and took a few photos with my trusty iPhone. The wedding arch is very creative.

Jen and Matthew wanted a ceremony that reflected their personalities and their special love. They chose a reading by Mark Twain that expressed their thoughts on marriage.

 A marriage makes of two fractional lives a whole;
It gives to two purposeless lives a work
And doubles the strength of each to perform it
It gives to two questioning natures a reason for living,
And something to live for;
It will give a new gladness to the sunshine,
A new fragrance to the flowers,
A new beauty to the earth,
And a new mystery to life

Thanks to Galen McGee at Two Ring Studios for providing the following photos.

 This day I marry my best friend. 

The one I laugh with, live for, love and adore. 

I place this ring on your finger and my heart in your hands. 

I choose you. Today, tomorrow, always.

I received a sweet note along with the photos.

Thank you so much! The ceremony ended up being our favorite part of the entire wedding, and the part we both remember best. You did an excellent job!

I truly love what I do......