Swan Manor Celebrates 2017 Spring Wedding Trends

It may not seem like it at the moment, but spring is around the corner, and Swan Manor is the perfect setting for your spring nuptials. We cater to the individual needs of the couples we serve, taking great pride in the fact that we are flexible and accommodating. You can purchase a wedding package from us that will take care of your most important event details, or you can use your own vendors. You will enjoy having the best of both worlds at your disposal with the luxurious interior spaces in our manor house and carriage ballroom plus the beautiful grounds of our impressively manicured property. Needless to say, you will have plenty of room to eat, drink and be merry at your Swan Manor wedding.

With the arrival of spring comes the full return of wedding season and some hot trends are already shaping up for 2017. Bridal Guide has been discussing some of the most prevalent ones they’re observing based on a survey of Pinterest boards. Here’s what they’ve noticed:

Pure Romance

Another popular theme in your Pinterest boards was simple, pure romance. From candlelit ceremonies to receptions lit by crystal chandeliers, this beautiful trend will melt your heart.

Vintage

The vintage wedding trend is still going strong! It’s no surprise — there’s just something that feels so romantic about adding old-world items and antiques to your big day. Many couples opt to include family heirlooms within their décor, giving a personal touch to their vintage wedding.

Whimsical

We were blown away by all of the super creative themes we saw in your boards, from weddings inspired by the movie Up to a festive carnival. See more at Bridal Guide

Back To Nature & Relaxation

If you want to get married at the trendiest downtown hotel amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, go for it! However, many couples in 2017 plan to trade the concrete jungle for a more natural setting. Wedding locations and themes that connect with the outdoors are very big this year. If this is something that interests you, having your wedding and reception at Swan Manor is ideal. Here are some nature wedding theme ideas from Bridal Guide to get your creative juices flowing.

Butterflies & Birds

As the butterflies leave their cocoons and the birds return home, many couples opt to include nods to these fluttering creatures in their spring wedding décor — from bridesmaids dresses to cake toppers to centerpieces to place cards.

Embrace the Rainy Season

You know what they say — “April showers bring May flowers.” Be prepared for a rainy day, or add some creative touches to your décor, like upside-down umbrellas suspended from the ceiling.

Cherry Blossoms

One of the most anticipated times in our nation’s capital this season is when the cherry blossoms begin to bloom – and the blooming period only lasts up to 14 days. Incorporate these spectacular flowers in your décor, recreate them on your cake or, if you’re getting married in DC during the blooming period, be sure to take a few photos under the cherry blossoms!

Open-Air Transportation

Take advantage of the season’s warmth by riding from your ceremony to reception on a bike — either motorized or built for two. Keep reading at Bridal Guide

Come Visit Swan Manor Today

A picture can say a thousand words, but even that’s not enough to communicate the natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds. The spring wedding and reception of your dreams can be realized 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 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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