Something Blue for Your Swan Manor Wedding

Celebrate your wedding in style at Swan Manor and enjoy the natural beauty that North Carolina has to offer. Our private, expansive estate is the ideal place to host your wedding and reception or any large gathering. Along with our beautiful grounds you will find luxury indoor appointments in our stately manor house and carriage house ballroom. We are the perfect venue for your nuptials any time of year.

Old, New, Borrowed & Blue

Let’s turn our attention to one of the most well-known wedding traditions: The bride wearing something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. Have you ever wondered why this is even a thing? If so, you’re in luck because we have the scoop right here:

Q: What is the meaning of “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue”?

A: This tradition comes from an Old English rhyme (“Something Olde, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, A Sixpence in your Shoe”), and the four objects that the bride adds to her wedding outfit or carries with her on the big day are just good luck charms. Don’t stress too much about them — they are the little tokens of love your mother, sister, other relatives, and attendants will give you at the eleventh hour (although you can give them to yourself, too). Something old represents continuity; something new offers optimism for the future; something borrowed symbolizes borrowed happiness; something blue stands for purity, love, and fidelity; and a sixpence in your shoe is a wish for good fortune and prosperity, although this remains largely a British custom. More details at The Knot

Incorporating Something Blue Can Be Fun and Unique

There are numerous ways you can add your “something blue” to your wedding. As one of the most popular colors for 2017, decor ranges from Robin’s egg blue to rich navy and covers every shade from cobalt to turquoise in between. Of course, flowers — including roses, hydrangeas and hyacinth — are simply stunning options. Some brides have utilized their fancy footwear to bring the tradition to life, while others use a sentimental blue piece of fabric to wrap their bouquets.

The Huffington Post has more info about making your special day a little bit blue.

Blue has been connected to weddings for centuries. In fact, in ancient Rome, brides wore blue to symbolize love, and fidelity.

For modern brides that want their something blue to pop on their big day, try pairing your gorgeous wedding gown with royal blue Louboutin pumps.

A new take on an old tradition: Use blue stitching to have your wedding date and initials monogrammed on the inside of your veil or dress. Additional info at Huffington Post

Delicious Blue Food Options

Blue foods can be a whimsical and tasty way to incorporate tradition into your special day. There are a plethora of edible flowers that look amazing on wedding cakes and desserts which can be fun to utilize. Fresh, organic blueberries and ice cream are sure to please your guests’ palates. If a candy bar is in your plans, it will be easy to add some blue peppermints, chocolates or delicious dessert items.

Add Some Blue Into Your Accessories

Make the  most of your photos by having some of them feature your fun, blue items. You can have blue sunglasses for the wedding party, blue makeup highlights such as eye shadow, nail polish or mascara, a family heirloom piece of blue jewelry incorporated into your bouquet or opt for a handmade floral crown to complete the look. Other fun and simple ways to maintain your traditional “purity and fidelity” vibe include:

Shoe Clips

Set on wearing white heels? Shoe clips add a splash of color, says planner Ana Skidmore of Two Foot Creative.

Ruffled Petticoat

“A blue ruffled petticoat looks darling under a wedding dress,” says planner Heather Balliet of Amorology.

Temporary Tattoo

“I had a bride tell me that she used our ‘Okay let’s do this’ temporary tattoo as her ‘something blue,'” says Tattly founder Tina Roth Eisenberg.

Nautical Rope Bracelet

According to event stylist Desiree Spinner, nothing says nautical like a navy rope bracelet. Read more at Brides.com

Have Fun Dealing With the Blues

Outdoor or indoor decor, including candles, signage or even lovely wind chimes, can easily add a touch of blue. Have fun with the process. Some of our Swan Manor couples use their gift favors as their “something blue.” The only thing limiting your options is your own imagination, so go for it. The main thing is to have a good time and never stress. This is your dream day so enjoy every moment of it.

Between our stately manor house, carriage house ballroom and manicured grounds, the indoor/outdoor wedding and reception of your dreams is possible on our estate. 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 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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