Swan Manor Is Ideal for Outdoor Weddings

If natural beauty is one of your wedding venue musts, Swan Manor is the ideal place for your outdoor nuptials. Manicured grounds, beautiful trees and space to breathe are all part of our expansive property. You can dress up the campus for a glamorous affair or treat your guests to a rustic vibe. Whatever your vision, Swan Manor can provide the perfect setting for your dream wedding and reception. Our dedicated team will help you create the memories that will last a lifetime.

The major perks of an outdoor wedding include the limitlessly high ceilings at your reception and the naturally beautiful backdrops for your ceremony. The trick is to define that open space into areas that still feel intimate and inviting. A decorated gateway leading to the ceremony seating or twinkling bistro lights over the dinner tables break up the great outdoors into manageable areas for guests.

• Line your aisle with petals, potted plants or fabric.
• Elevate your ceremony altar.
• Hang unique decor in various sizes around your outdoor reception space (like dreamcatchers!) Read more at The Knot

Our Experience Works For You

One of the benefits of working with an established wedding venue such as Swan Manor is the advice we can offer when needed. We have been blessed to host a multitude of weddings and social events on our gorgeous property. This gives us valuable experience for working with you to create your perfect day. Our talented team can answer any questions and help transform your wedding wishes into reality. If you need direction on the best places to set up your serving stations or want the sunlight to fall on a particular spot at a particular time, we can tell you where to position everything. Creating the ideal setting for your wedding, reception, serving and dining areas, bar space, dance floor and more is simple and stress-free when you work with Swan Manor.

The Knot has collected some expert tips to help turn a large outdoor wedding into a more personal affair. Here are two suggestions, and you can see more by following the link.

• Ceremony Setting

“Create a more intimate outdoor ceremony by setting up a circle with your chairs around the chuppah to include all of your guests. It makes a 200-plus wedding seem much more intimate this way.” — Paige Hiller Photography

• Meal Mingling

“One way to make a large wedding feel intimate is through food stations. Guests will have an opportunity to interact with one another while selecting their food rather than staying seated through the entire reception.” — Andrea Leslie Weddings & Events Additional details at The Knot

Swan Manor: Charlotte’s Year-Round Wedding Venue

Our stately manor is available for your convenience every month of the year. If a white winter wedding speaks to you, let’s get busy planning. Springtime is always popular and summer or fall ceremonies are equally ideal. We invite you to bring in your own vendors or use one of our convenient packages. The perfect setting and a stress-free environment is what we offer here at Swan Manor. We are always happy to help you plan and stage your wedding, family reunion or social event. Call us today to check availability. We look forward to hosting your next memorable occasion.

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Wedding Fantasy Gets Real at Swan Manor Photo Shoot

Swan Manor was the backdrop for a recent fantasy photo shoot for wedding website Charlotte Brides. Life joyously imitated art at the fairytale-inspired session when the pictorial “groom” proposed to his pictorial “wife” for real.

The models are true-life couple Eric Robaina and Julia Staley. Eric used his perfect opportunity — surrounded by Swan Manor’s beautiful grounds, both dressed to the nines, a photographer on hand to document it all — to surprise his girlfriend with an engagement ring and an offer she couldn’t resist. Photographer Abbie Blair of Southernly Studios captured the dream-come-true moment beautifully, as seen in the accompanying photo.

Here’s a portion of what the pictorial essay, dubbed “Into the Secret Garden,” had to say about Swan Manor:

As you peruse the grounds of Swan Manor, it is impossible not to find respite in the abounding nooks, perfectly suited for stealing quiet moments with one another. Whether a vintage chaise lounge in the parlor or in the stillness of the wooded property, you will find space to relish your new titles as Mr. and Mrs. You will find just as many options for your first photographs as a married couple. The front porch, reminiscent of days gone by, is the backdrop that southern wedding dreams are made of. The allure of the manor is not lost on couples seeking serenity for their ceremony and reception. See more at Charlotte Brides

Between our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds, the wedding and reception of your dreams is possible at Swan Manor. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. Information about our wedding packages can also be found on our website. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Swan Manor Offers Southern Style for Weddings

Swan Manor has the Southern charm and hospitality you desire for your dream wedding or formal event. The stately manor house, carriage house and manicured grounds are the perfect site for an unforgettable occasion. Our flexible packages are ideal for couples who are seeking a stress-free event. However, couples who prefer to work with their own vendors are equally welcome to rent the estate. Our team has the passion and expertise to make your wedding the once-in-a-lifetime event you deserve.

We Bring Your Vision To Life

We will help you create the ambiance you desire. For example, if you want to maximize your space and utilize the outdoor grounds for roasting marshmallows and making s’mores around a warm fire, we will make that happen. Swan Manor has been privileged to accommodate a variety of weddings and gatherings in every month of the year. So, rest assured that our dedicated staff can help you prepare for any season. Bring us your unique wedding and reception ideas and let us help you create the event of your dreams.

Personalize Your Wedding

Don’t limit yourself to the cookie-cutter tried-and-true when it comes to planning your wedding. Opt for an affair that’s unique; one that says something about who you are as a couple. There are many ways to personalize your event. If you need some inspiration to get your imaginations fired up, The Knot has some good suggestions to start the ball rolling. We’ve excerpted one tip below, but click through for many more.

Make your guests feel like VIPs with welcome bags that go beyond a map and a few snacks. Stuff personalized tote bags with mini bottles of bubbly or a six-pack of a local microbrew, a gift certificate to your favorite local coffee shop and an individual “Welcome!” note from you. See more at The Knot

Delectable Cuisine

Our professional catering team will make sure that your guests are impressed with the food you serve. We can help you plan a menu of homemade delicacies and family recipes or work up a custom menu that showcases your personality. Tapas, appetizers, salads, a selection of meats, vegetarian options, pastas, fruit bouquets, dessert buffets and even the wedding cake can be provided. We will be happy to discuss your menu preferences during your consultation.

Fun Details for Your Reception

Look for opportunities to delight and engage your guests and make them truly feel part of the experience. Here’s a suggestion from Mon Cheri Bridals: Set up a station for your guests to write love notes, jokes or advice on slips of paper that are placed into a wedding piñata. Have a sign announcing that you will be opening this on your first anniversary. Ask your guests to be creative. The site has dozens more ideas. Here are three of them:

A live wedding painter to capture your ceremony/reception space and your guests

Make your ring bearer a ring security guard.

Make your own Instagram hashtag that your guests can use. Not only is it fun for them, but it also allows you to see all of the pictures your guests uploaded to Instagram in one search. More tips at Mon Cheri Bridals

Swan Manor Is The Venue for Your Needs

Reserve our expansive manor house, carriage house and glorious grounds for your upcoming wedding, vow renewal, anniversary party or social event. We will do everything in our power to ensure that your occasion is nothing short of spectacular.

Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. Information about our wedding packages can also be found on our website. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Swan Manor Is Your First-Look Photo Headquarters

First-look photos are all the rage for wedding couples across the globe. This exploding trend is a wonderful way to capture the raw expression and pure emotion associated with seeing each other for the very first time on your wedding day. While more traditional and/or superstitious brides and grooms may not want to see one another before the wedding, no one can dispute how unique these pictures are. And our guests who do opt to go for it tell us time and again how beautiful the experience was with just them and a photographer to capture this special moment. We are proud that our venue offers a multitude of ideal locations to help you create your own timeless keepsake.

They may not be traditional, but first-look wedding photos are becoming very popular. It’s still entirely up to you whether or not you want to uphold the tradition of the groom not seeing the bride until the ceremony, but if these photos are any indication, a first-look is a beautiful way to start off your married life.

The instant a bride and groom first lock eyes on their big day is incredibly romantic — whether or not it’s done in private before you say “I do” or as you make your grand entrance into the ceremony. If you’re concerned about the groom’s expression being any less excited when he sees you walking towards him to exchange vows, don’t be. Most guys will still get teary-eyed in the moments before they say their big moment. And since he’s already seen you in your wedding dress, he can appreciate the crystallizing realization that he’s about to become the luckiest guy in the world even more. Read more at Brides.com

 

Benefits of Pre-Wedding Photo Ops

How many weddings have you been to where the couple and the entire bridal party are gone for hours after the ceremony to complete their photos? Perhaps you went back to your hotel or met up awkwardly at some relatives’ house waiting for the newlyweds to arrive. Oftentimes, the reception is already in full cocktail hour before the couple shows up. More brides and grooms prefer to book at least a portion of their photos prior to the ceremony. This break with tradition will ensure that you have extra time to mingle with your guests and be involved with your own wedding.

You can experience one of the most romantic moments of your day in private.
“First-look photos give you a moment in your crazy day to tell each other how much you love each other in private,” explains Carleigh Babiak from Carleigh Babiak Photography in Manitoba. This alone time will allow you show your true emotions and maybe get some tears out before the ceremony.

You won’t miss cocktail hour.
Scheduling first-look photos before your ceremony saves valuable time that you can spend actually enjoying the party you spent so long planning. Schedule your family and wedding party shots directly after your first-look photos before the ceremony and then you’ll be able to proceed to cocktail hour with the rest of your guests! More details at Wedding Bells

Our Immaculate Grounds Provide Perfect Photo Ops

At Swan Manor we take great pride in our beautiful landscaping. Our grounds have a variety of spaces both indoors and out that will suit your first-look photos and all of your group shots. Come visit Swan Manor and let us escort you throughout the property so you can make note of the locations you love for pictures of you, your family and friends. Having some ideas in advance will help you maximize your time with your photographer.

Look through magazines and online and decide which poses and fun DIY ideas you want to incorporate into your photo shoot. Make a detailed idea list of photo options and have fun with your creative side. Thinking ahead will ensure that you create a wedding album to be proud of. Our experienced staff is always happy to make recommendations if you need some inspiration.

Check out the wedding packages on our website. Then, get in touch with us today to schedule a meeting and tour. We are here to help you have the most spectacular wedding possible. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Swan Manor: Your Vintage Fairytale Wedding Headquarters

Swan Manor is an excellent choice for your vintage inspired wedding. Our property has a variety of different areas and alcoves perfect for setting up period vignettes and showcasing your creativity. Enjoy the flexibility of hosting indoors, outside and all around the grounds as you see fit. Our staff works hard to ensure that all the details are taken care of so you can relax and enjoy.

Vintage Must-Haves

If you are looking for vintage inspiration, don’t forget a few of the following top ideas to incorporate:

Statement headpiece:

This is the ultimate in vintage statements for a bride; and it can really make the whole theme come together! Big and outrageous or dainty and elegant, a headpiece is one of the most memorable and striking items to include in your vintage wedding – a must have!

An authentic vintage wedding venue with some history:

Imagine the photos- sunset, flowing 1930s style dress and a gorgeous historic building or stately home as your backdrop- adding huge amounts of authenticity to your vintage

wedding and creating the perfect atmosphere. Having an aged building as your wedding venue puts the surroundings of the day instantly into a truly vintage perspective. Besides, true vintage is history!

Diamonds of the sea…

Pearls! These beautiful things always give a vintage twist in any setting, but put in the context of a luxurious wedding they would be stunning! Why not go all out glam with a pear necklace or drop earrings? Read more at Elmore Court

Vintage Decor Unites Your Theme

Enjoy adding some eye-catching props to adhere to your vintage theme. Wood cuts, wildflowers, herbs, mason jars, burlap, buttons, period furniture and old typewriters often immediately come to mind for vintage wedding and reception decor. The following pieces are great heirlooms to incorporate. These family treasures will honor the love lineage of your families.

Chandeliers

Chandeliers are absolutely gorgeous for a vintage-themed wedding. You can use real chandeliers for your affair or take advantage of chandelier-style candleholders.

Lace

Lace is a must-have for vintage weddings. Even if you don’t want the traditional-looking lace wedding dress, there are a lot of ways to incorporate it. Have a bouquet holder created from lace for a gorgeous look that isn’t too traditional.

Embellished Jewelry

Jewelry that is detailed and very embellished is perfect for a vintage wedding. Now is a great time to wear those heirloom earrings your grandmother gave you or the antique bangle from your great aunt. More details at eWedding

Vintage DIY Fun

Consider hand-making your centerpieces, guest favors and more for a very personalized touch. Incorporate natural woods and white candles in crystal, pewter or wrought iron candleholders for a good start. Plan your ideas well in advance to ensure that you have adequate time to complete each project. Enjoy the fun of crafting these items with your bridal party, family and friends to create lasting memories.

Black and White Photos

Every wedding and special event benefits from some black and white photos. Enjoy the play of light and shadows that only black and white film provides. Enjoy the depth and glamour in every picture. From iconic stairway pics indoors to outdoor shots among the trees, Swan Manor has a full range of pose-worthy spaces.

Between our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds, the wedding and reception of your dreams are possible at Swan Manor. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. Information about our wedding packages can also be found on our website. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Swan Manor: Affordable Elegance for Weddings

If simplicity and sensational are part of your wedding day dreams, look no further than Swan Manor. Our exquisite sprawling estate is perfect for your nuptials. We offer perfectly manicured grounds and a spectacular setting for your wedding ceremony and photos. Eager to please, our professional and friendly staff is completely organized and flexible. We are open to outside vendors or happy to recommend talented crews we have worked with before!

When shopping around for your intricate venue, there are numerous things to keep in mind. The following checklist from hitched.com gives you an idea of pertinent details to consider:

Questions to Ask Your Venue

1. Is your venue available on the required date?

2. Is your venue easy to find?

3. Is your venue licensed to carry out civil weddings?

4. If you do hold a licence for civil ceremonies, what authority do you come under and can you supply names and contact details for the registrar?

5. Will ours be the only wedding at your venue on our wedding day?

6. How many people can you accommodate?

7. How many car parking spaces are available?

8. Do you allow confetti to be thrown at the venue?

9. Do you allow candles to be lit in the reception room?

10. Do you have a noise limiter fitted or can we turn the music all the way up?

11. Are there any bedrooms over the dance floor?

12. Do you allow professional firework displays at your venue?

13. Do you have landing permission should we want a helicopter to whisk us away after the evening reception? More details at Hitched

Gazebo, Forest or Front Foyer: Endless Options

The best part about a venue that offers equally stunning interior and exterior options is that you never have to fret if Mother Nature decides to sprinkle or snow on your big day. We have a myriad of different locations on site that can easily transform into your cocktail, dining and photography sessions.

We Are Prepared When Nature Changes Plans

We celebrate love year round at Swan Manor. Regardless of the season, we have all options covered. Stay fresh from the blazing sun with our beautiful tree canopies along the property. If the rain clouds move in, our talented staff can easily move your set-up to our lovely indoor spaces. Leave the stress to us while you relax and enjoy your wedding day.

What an amazing wedding and reception we had at Swan Manor!! Dennis and Bart went above and beyond the call of duty. Throughout the entire process they were so attentive to our needs and our guest’s needs; during the planning process, the rehearsal, the ceremony and reception, they were flexible and patient with anything we asked of them.

Dennis and Bart worked alongside our caterer, DJ, cake artist, and director to make things run smoothly. They not only provided us with a beautiful venue, they helped decorate and offered some of their own flowers and plants to compliment our own.

From the valet parking to the bridal suite, it was an incredibly beautiful day and evening! We are so thankful to Dennis and Bart for their attention to detail and their desire to make our wedding day so special for us. They take so much pride in their venue and it shows! We would highly recommend Swan Manor to others for any special event!!

Tammie and Steve (Customer review from Wedding Wire)

Here are some additional questions we are happy to help you answer, compliments of www.confetti.co.uk.

• Does the venue suit your theme?

• Is it big enough to accommodate all your guests?

• Do they have an in‐house wedding co‐ordinator?

• Do they have equipment you can use or will you have to hire tables, chairs, linens, plates, glassware, etc?

• Do they have in‐house catering or must you hire your own?

• If you are bringing a caterer in, will they have access to a kitchen, power, running water, etc?

• Will you be having finger food, a buffet or a sit down meal?

• Will there be food for both the reception and the evening reception?

• If they’ll be supplying the food, are they flexible with their menu choices? Can you make suggestions?

• Is there a vegetarian alternative? Can they accommodate special dietary requirements?

• Do they have a license to consume alcohol?

• Can you supply your own alcohol? Is there a corkage fee?

• Will you have a free bar or will guests pay for their own beverages?

• Determine which drinks you would like served when. Until what time the bar will be open?

• Enquire about staff. How will they be dressed? How many will be required?

• Can you meet the manager beforehand to go over details?

• Is entertainment permitted? Is there a sufficient power supply for any entertainment/sound systems you may require?

• Does the venue have a public address system available for speeches?

• Are there noise level restrictions that must be adhered to?

• Visit your venue at the time of day your reception will take place. Is the lighting suitable?

• Are the tables/chairs/linens appropriate?

• Discuss where you would like flowers and other decorations placed.

• Is there a safe place for guests to store coats and personal belongings?

• Is there a safe place for gifts?

• If you are having outside staff or decorators in, what is the earliest they can have access?

• Does the venue have disabled access?

• Are there adequate parking facilities?

• Is there on‐site accommodation? If so, is there a discount available for your guests?

• Does the venue have public liability insurance?

• How far in advance are bookings required?

• What is the cancellation/postponement policy?

• How much is the deposit to secure the date and when is it due?

• How soon after the event is the balance due?

• Is VAT included in the final price?

• Confirm dates, times and details with a written contract.

• Get insurance.

Come and Check Us Out

Working with a reputable venue will ensure that your special day goes perfectly. Our stellar reputation keeps our booking calendar busy but we want to get you on it. We look forward to meeting with you and showing you our exquisite Swan Manor estate, the ultimate venue for your wedding and reception.

Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site to get in touch. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Timeless Tips for Your Wedding Photography

Getting the most of your wedding photos takes a bit of homework. Viewing potential photographers’ portfolios ahead of time can help you decide what kinds of shots you would like yourself. It is vital to peruse different photography styles, images and ideas well before your wedding day in order to ensure you are happy with your own package. Don’t simply hire based on the bottom line. While price is definitely an important factor to consider; it is best to go with someone whom you “click” with (pun intended).

Discover Your “Good” Side Ahead of Time

It is essential to have some clarity prior to your big day in order to encapsulate your very best for years to come. Have fun with your fiancé taking random pictures from a variety of angles to discover which side is your most flattering ahead of time. The following tips from The Knot are excellent to consider:

Schedule an Engagement Shoot

Once you hire a photographer, a prewedding photo shoot kills many birds with one stone: It’s a great opportunity to get comfortable with your photographer and with having your picture taken; you’ll have a built-in save-the-date photo; and you’ll be able to give your pro feedback on what photos you liked and didn’t before your wedding day.

Make a (Reasonable) Shot List

Don’t waste time trying to get every last combo of grandparents, siblings and cousins. Stick to a few important shots, and ask your maid of honor or another member of the wedding party to help orchestrate them on the day of. Include whether you want shots in black and white or color, and don’t forget to mention any particular décor items you want captured (for instance, the DIY napkin holders you got carpal tunnel syndrome from weaving). While you’re sending these notes, attach a few photos of yourself that you think you look amazing in, so he’ll know how you want to look on your wedding day. And include any side notes about the actual day, like your grandma has a bad hip and can’t stand too long. See more at The Knot

Fun Group Pics

Consider an aerial shot of you and yours standing in a heart formation. Perhaps you have made a myriad of DIY signs and wish to incorporate a photographic story. Maybe a men vs. women tug of war is more your style. Have fun with some exciting group images which can be sent out as part of your thank you cards in the future.

The Little Munchkins

Unpredictable, messy, adorable…your youngest guests are often among the most hilarious and photogenic. In order to capture the very best, consider the following advice from Brides.com:

Snap them first
Children get antsy fast, so schedule their formal family portraits early—preferably before the ceremony begins, says Hilda Burke of Chicago’s Angel Eyes Photography.

Don’t mess with a moment
“The worst is when you’re about to catch a child doing something incredible and funny, and a parent comes over and says, ‘Smile!'” says Schuster. More info at Brides.com

Go With the Flow

Try to remember that frown lines are not wanted in your timeless wedding photos. Even if everything goes crazy; simply take a deep breath and smile. While you may have analyzed your poses for months ahead of time, it is often the candid and unplanned shots that become the family favorites.

Swan Manor is the perfect venue to capture all of your cherished wedding photos. Between our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds, the wedding pictures of your dreams can be taken on our grounds. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Swan Manor: Offering Organized Simplicity for Weddings

Once your wedding venue is secure, you can start implementing the details that will make your day shine. Having an outline of how you and your future spouse see the day unfolding will help everyone stay on board. Going with the flow is definitely important; however, you might inadvertently miss out on some key items if you have no schedule to adhere to.

Communicate with Staff and Guests

DIY signs and banner inspiration are all over the internet. As is stationary vendors who are happy to take your order and deliver your goods. Announcing your intentions and time frames can help your reception stay on track and keep things more organized. Simple ways to let your guests help you by being able to help themselves are as follows:

• Washroom Signs
• Table Place Card Settings
• Photo-booth/Picture area
• Garden Signs
• Parking locations
• Smoking Terrace
• Bar and Food Service
• Gift Table
• Photo Opportunities

Contact each individual vendor – caterer, baker, florist, DJ or musicians, limo, party rentals — anybody providing a service or a product on your wedding day. From Sane Wedding Planner

Providing every member of your crew with a timeframe will help everything go smoothly. Many wedding planners recommend starting your ceremony starts 15 minutes earlier than it truly does to avoid individuals being late and trying to sneak down the aisle ahead of the wedding party.

There is nothing worse than allowing hours of time and attention to detail go to waste simply because there was no communication between guests. Setting up your soiree to be self-serve will allow family and friends to be free to mingle and help themselves. This increases the comfort level while still maintaining a formal atmosphere. Most of your guests can read; take advantage of that fact and let your creative flair help them determine where to be and when.

Menu Cards and Place Settings

If you have a specific menu selection, speech itinerary, or traditional garter ceremony to fit in before or after the first dance; utilize your table number setting to communicate your schedule. Alternatively, you could offer each place setting a detailed card that can become an additional keepsake or be part of your take home gifts. Having a general theme to adhere to will help guests manage bathroom and cigarette breaks and putting wee ones down to nap without missing any big photo opportunities.

Do keep in mind that you don’t have to plan every second of your guests’ stay – nor should you. They’re big boys and girls and likely want to take time to relax or explore on their own, rather than feel like they’re at a regimented work conference. So let them cherish the “down times” – after all, they’ll likely need them to charge up for dancing at your reception. From The Pink Bride

Wedding Weekend

Many venues are flexible for offering their grounds. Destination wedding couples are more commonly offering Friday to Sunday itineraries’. Telling your guests where activities will be held, what time the meet and greet BBQ will be held and deciding to have a 3 legged race and brunch instead of a formal gift opening on Sunday is all easier if your family and friends know what to expect.

Just Have Fun

Understand that no matter how thorough your wedding planning goes, there will be times when your ceremony and reception seems to have a mind of its’ own. Ensure that you stay positive by allowing yourself the freedom to sit back and relax no matter what happens.

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Things to consider when hiring a wedding caterer

When choosing a wedding caterer, there are several things you should keep in mind so you don’t end up with a disaster on your hands. You don’t need to be reminded that your wedding day is one of the most important times of your life. You certainly don’t want your special day to end up feeling like a story from one of those “wedding catastrophe” reality television shows.

The main reason for hiring a caterer is obviously to have them prepare the food you’ll be serving your guests. The key reason for hiring a the right caterer is to help reduce the amount of stress you’ll deal with in planning and staging your wedding and reception. If you are overly stressed, the months leading up to your wedding will almost make you yearn for an elopement. You want to be able to enjoy this special time of your life and not be completely overwhelmed and anxious.

Weddings are very detailed events, right down to who is seated next to whom at the reception tables. When you’re searching for a good caterer, in addition to the quality of their food preparation, look for someone who has extensive experience with weddings and events similar in size to yours. A professional caterer should know how much food to prepare based on the number of guests you are expecting. Portions should be generous and the food should be as memorable as the day itself. Also, keep an eye open for examples of your candidate’s project management skills. For example, are they well-prepared and organized for meetings? A very detail-oriented person who has successfully handled jobs of your size in the past will work well as your caterer.

Oftentimes, you’ll be better off if you choose someone whose taste and style is appropriate for your style of wedding. You want your caterer to be in synch with your theme and decor. You probably won’t want to hire a caterer who’s known for country cooking if your reception is chic and elegant. At the same time, you might rule out the fine dining specialist for your waterside picnic. One thing to be sure of is that the caterer you choose is clear about the details of your event and understands everything you expect of them. You will want to get all of these details in writing so there is no confusion regarding your expectations. Miscommunication is the primary cause of problems so avoid them with clarity.

One good way to get a headstart on locating the right caterer is to see what previous clients think about their work. Ask for written recommendations from other clients. If possible, try to speak with one or two of them so you can ask some specific questions about their experiences. You want to hire a caterer who comes with a stamp of approval. Be wary of working with anyone who is unwilling or even shows reluctance to help you with this request.

Lastly, here’s a bit of advice that has been proven time and time again: It is often unwise to let a family member or close friend act as your caterer. Too often there are differences of opinion, disagreements, and real or perceived slights that leave individuals with hurt feelings or even not speaking to one another. Hire a professional and treat your catering like you would any other service associated with your wedding day. Besides, you want your loved ones enjoying your special day with you, not laboring in the kitchen and missing everything.
At Swan Manor, we offer caterers a large kitchen for food and service preparation, plus additional space as needed. Contact us to set a time to show you and your caterer the ballroom in the carriage house for indoor dining or various spots around the grounds for al fresco meals. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Show your bridesmaids that you appreciate them

It’s vital to show your bridesmaids that you appreciate them. These ladies have decided to honor you and your groom by standing up for the both of you on your big day. They have made it to countless appointments, securing dresses, shoes, flowers, centerpieces and probably driven all over town on your behalf. Not to mention all of the time and effort they have put into planning you a spectacular bridal shower or Stagette. Take some time to come up with a thoughtful way to say thank you.

A token of your appreciation

A memorable gift for your maids is always a sweet surprise if it is in your budget. For example, consider purchasing the bridesmaid jewelry or offering each lady a special anklet. They will treasure this memento for years to come and will be touched that you went that extra step to show your thanks. Some great gift ideas include:

• A spa gift certificate (hair, manicure, pedicure, etc.)
• A pendant or chain
• Bangles, earrings or bracelet
• Bottle of wine or champagne
• Offer to pay a portion of the cost for their bridesmaid dress or shoes or hair and makeup
• Get some gift certificates from your wedding photographer and give your girls a coupon for a family session
• Dinner and a movie gift certificate

Handmade thoughtfulness

Sometimes the wedding taps out your entire budget. If anyone is going to understand besides your spouse, it will be your best girls. They have been accompanying you on your buying trips and booking appointments and probably picked up on the worried expression that has crossed your face from time to time. Fear not. Some simple handmade gestures can mean more than the costliest spending spree. Consider some of the following easy ideas:

• Hand-sewn heart sachets (fill with lavender or leave scent free)
• Plant some seedlings in a painted pot
• Make a crafty thank you card
• Stamp some stationary
• Etch or paint some wine glasses
• Frame a black and white photo of the two of you
• Make some homemade tin patio lanterns for her deck or balcony

Green brides

Plant a tree in your bridesmaid’s name and feel great about a gift that keeps on giving. Purchase some perennial plants for her garden or start a container garden for her. Many nurseries will offer a bulk discount if you are purchasing an abundant quantity. Give her a gift certificate or I.O.U. coupon for a future lunch and shopping date at her favorite thrift store. Buy some candle holders at a local swap meet or garage sale and upcycle them with her favorite paint colors. The possibilities are endless and easy to give her the extra thanks she deserves.

Personalize your thank yous

Of course, you can simply stop at your favorite restaurant or store and grab a mitt full of gift certificates or create your own on your computer. However, who says one size has to fit all? Each of your ladies has their own favorite color and activity preferences. Maybe one of your gals loves art and an adult coloring book and some new art supplies would make the perfect gift. Perhaps another of your friends is passionate about gardening and would love a nursery gift certificate or some thoughtfully selected seed packets.

The group thank you

If you prefer to make a day of it as opposed to individual gifts, consider some of the following:

• A trip to your local water park
• A spa day
• Horseback riding
• A round of golf
• A winery trip

Regardless of how you choose to show your bridesmaids you appreciate them, it will be remembered that you went the extra mile to show how important they are and how much help they have been to you.

While you’re figuring out the perfect gift for your bridesmaids, you can go ahead and settle another important issue: The wedding and reception venue. Swan Manor has you covered there. Between our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds, the special day of your dreams is possible on our grounds. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site to learn about our wedding packages. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Look for a wedding reception venue with indoor/outdoor spaces

Look for a wedding reception venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces to get the most out of your celebration. Having a myriad of places to mingle will enable every guest to find their ideal comfort zone, thus, enticing them to stay longer.

The downside of a club atmosphere

If your venue is one large space with thumping bass notes blaring and nothing but flashing lights everywhere, you actually might not end up partying into the wee hours as planned. Of course, much of this will depend on the age and interests of your guests. However, Great Aunt Edna and your grandparents might find this space extremely loud and leave early. It will also be difficult to mingle and chat with your guests above the noise.

Accentuate natural surroundings

Take notes when you visit your venue to discuss final details during the planning process. Highlight any natural indoor and outdoor photo ops that are on the grounds. Many venues have abundant spectacular beauty. Consider if any of the following are available for some stunning photo opportunities with your photographer and guests:

• Pond, water fountain, bridge, waterfall
• Trees, garden, forest
• Sculpture
• Rock wall
• Rustic barn
• Field of wildflowers
• Mountains
• Indoor art background
• Spiral staircase or architecturally intriguing stairwell

Free-range weddings

Outdoor receptions are lovely. Many couples cannot imagine getting married with a roof over their head and insist the entire event take place outside. This is a wonderful sentiment and can be thoroughly enjoyed if you have taken the appropriate measures into account. Having some fleece throws on hand for your guests to use on their shoulders or legs can be most welcome if you are celebrating late into the night or during chillier spring and fall months.

Making some no-sew fleece throws to match your wedding colors is simple. Simply get the wedding party together one night and cut some fringe on the edges of your square or rectangular blankets…and voila! Consider embroidering your initials for a special and practical guest favor.

Sun respite

The last thing you want for your pictures is a bunch of sunburned guests. Look for a wedding reception venue with indoor/outdoor spaces to accommodate everyone’s comfort level along with your own. Having some cooler, air-conditioned places available can be heavenly if you are getting married in the height of summer.

Varied seating options

While your teenage cousins might enjoy some high, fancy bar stool chairs, your older guests will appreciate not having to climb up and down. If your venue doesn’t have any loveseats or couches, consider creating your own perimeter lounge atmosphere in the foyer. Get creative — if covered hay bales suit your theme, then go for it. It is important to have some places for guests to catch up with one another and a spot to rest while they are waiting for the bathroom.

Smoking guests

If you have zero smokers on your guest list, that’s great. How wonderful to be surrounded by such a health conscious group of people. However, if you do have uncles that enjoy cigars and guests who still smoke cigarettes, fret not. Simply have the emcee announce where they can appropriately smoke. Set up extra outdoor seating and tables to provide a comfortable location. This will help prevent people from standing and smoking right outside of the doorways. Having extra ashtrays on hand is respectful for the cleanup crew and may help you prevent being saddled with additional cleaning fees.

By choosing a wedding venue that has equally exciting indoor and outdoor possibilities, both you and your guests will have your needs met. Taking photos will be extra fun when you don’t have to drive all over town to “get that shot” as well.

Between our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds, the indoor/outdoor wedding and reception of your dreams is waiting for you at Swan Manor. Contact us today to schedule a meeting and tour. Call 704-776-2530 or use the contact form here on the site. We look forward to hearing from you.

The post Look for a wedding reception venue with indoor/outdoor spaces appeared first on Swan Manor Wedding & Event Venue.

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