Author: eldermannllc@gmail.com

Our Anniversary Party

In 2015, David and I got married right here at Overlook Barn. What started as a wild idea to “clean out the barn my grandfather built and get married in it” became so much more. We purchased the barn from my uncle, lovingly brought it back to life, and celebrated our own wedding here- my absolute favorite day ever. Since then, we’ve hosted more than 600 couples and their loved ones… truly more than we ever imagined would come from that wild idea.

I’m fully aware that 10-year anniversaries aren’t typically celebrated with a huge party. But after a decade of watching how meaningful it is when people gather, we’ve become big believers in celebrating whenever life gives you a chance. This milestone felt like the perfect excuse to throw a big anniversary party in a place that means so much to us.

More than anything, our goal for the evening was simple: create a celebration that felt festive, fun, heartfelt, and full of gratitude for the people who have supported us over the past decade.

Honoring Two Stories at Once: Us and Overlook Barn

One of the most interesting parts of planning this event was figuring out how much of it was Overlook Barn’s 10th birthday and how much was our 10th anniversary. At first, it felt like two separate celebrations. But the more we thought about it, the clearer it became that the stories are completely intertwined.

Overlook exists because we wanted a place to get married. We live in North Carolina because, once the venue took off, we needed to be closer. My career completely shifted because of Overlook’s growth. And our three boys have grown up running around this property, listening to me (attempt to) teach them the basics of business so they can take over someday (no pressure, of course).

So we embraced the truth that these celebrations are inseparable and decided to honor both. I also hoped that showing our kids how joyful it can be to host people would spark something in them for the future. In the end, we landed on throwing an almost-wedding: no ceremony, but a full cocktail hour, a reception, dancing, and maybe a few fun reveals along the way.

Our Design + Creative Team

We gave our vendors a ton of creative freedom—one of the perks of working with people we trust wholeheartedly. I knew I wanted “ten” incorporated somehow, and using an X (the Roman numeral for ten) felt like the perfect subtle nod. We also hoped to weave in touches from our own wedding (bright florals, mismatched china), honor our families (a coffee station for my late grandmother, family photos lining the stall openings), and keep the overall vibe celebratory, fun, and very us.

But honestly, I love a good surprise, and I didn’t have a super specific vision for how it all should look. So we encouraged our vendors to bring their own creativity forward and interpret the inspiration however they saw fit.

And wow. Did they deliver. Here are the vendors who brought this vision (or lack thereof!) to life:

A Thistle and a Twig

I’m truly blown away by Kahly’s talent. She easily handled my insightful questions like, “Aren’t fuchsia, magenta, and bright pink all the same?” (For the record, I still don’t know.) But I do know that our florals blew us away. Her team embraced the fun vibe completely and created an incredible X-shaped floral installation- with disco balls!- right in the center of the dance floor. She made Overlook and Cliffside feel joyful, elevated, and celebratory. And she nailed our big reveal moment too.

Mohr Fun Events

Every time I talked to Karl, it felt like he had another offering that could make the party even better. Yes, he’s a DJ, but he also has a photo booth with custom printouts, lighting, digital photo displays, dance-floor decals, and other things that kept the kids entertained all night (more on that in another post). He was so organized and on top of things that I knew every announcement and timeline detail was in great hands.

Olson Design Photography

A married photography duo with three boys? We kinda had to hire them. We’ve always loved their artistic eye when they’ve shot Overlook weddings, so we knew they’d be perfect for our own celebration. Whitney was incredibly helpful during planning, always up for my wild ideas (‘can we hold a styled photoshoot that day too?!’) and brainstorming ways to bring my ideas to life. They captured so many big and small moments- images we can’t wait to frame and hang on our wall.

A Bushel and a Peck Vintage Rentals

Kelly’s inventory is unmatched. Her multiple lounges, tablescapes, and gorgeous goblets added so much texture and warmth to our celebration. I trusted her completely to build out the design elements, and she delivered spaces that felt elevated and cozy all at once.

Raye and Co.

The only vendor on the team we hadn’t worked with before…and I’m so glad Taylar joined us. She created signage that set the tone for the evening and played a key role in our reveal moment. The planning process with her was genuinely fun: I’d give her a loose idea, and she’d turn it into something beautiful, always incorporating any tweaks I suggested.

Reid’s Catering

A well-oiled machine. Working with them gave me so much peace of mind leading up to our event. The planning process was easy and enjoyable, and the food was truly delicious- guests told us that all night long. We even wove in a few elevated nods to our wedding menu and family favorites to make the night feel like us.

Trinity Transport

A must-have for me; not only for safety, but because it makes guests feel fully taken care of. Chad coordinated pickup times for everyone and ran shuttles every 20 minutes at the end of the night. It worked perfectly and made the whole evening feel seamless.

Celebrating a decade of Overlook alongside the people who have helped build its reputation was incredibly meaningful…a reminder of how impactful a strong vendor team is, not just on the night of the event but throughout the entire planning process.

Adding Some Intrigue

One of my favorite things about weddings is seeing how couples personalize their day. Whether that’s a graphic-designer groom who designs all the signage, table numbers inspired by their travels, or a surfboard guestbook for an adventure-loving duo. I love celebrations that aren’t just Pinterest-worthy but deeply reflective of who people are.

For Overlook’s 10th birthday, I wanted David and me represented too, which brings me to our current obsession: tennis. We originally met on a flag-football team in DC and spent years playing sports together… until we had three kids under four, and hobbies basically evaporated. But in the past few years, as we’ve slowly emerged from the thick of early parenthood, playing sports together returned to us in the form of tennis… and we haven’t looked back!

So I thought it would be fun to create a Wimbledon-inspired “members only” lounge with a bourbon tasting bar (a nod to the bourbon bar I surprised David with at our wedding). That was the entire brief I gave the team: “Wimbledon-inspired members-only lounge with a bourbon bar and some Xs in it.” And when I tell you how incredible it turned out… I mean it.

The Pavilion didn’t exist when we got married, so getting to incorporate it into this celebration was especially fun. We kept it completely closed off with a sign that read “Members Only Opens at 7:30 PM.” When the time came, we gathered our guests and opened the door to reveal the space…seeing it for the first time right alongside everyone else. The lounge was a huge hit. It was playful and a little theatrical, but also deeply personal. Guests loved discovering a new space mid-evening, and for us, it was a way of saying, “We’re still very much us.”

Looking Ahead: Ten Years Down, Forever to Go

We’re so grateful: for our family, for our health, for our team, and for every person who has been part of Overlook’s story. Getting to celebrate 10 years of us and 10 years of this place we love so much was incredibly special.

And yes, I am already working on convincing David that a 15-year anniversary party is totally reasonable. (I feel pretty confident I’ll win that one.)

Here’s to the next decade of love, of growth, and of many, many more gatherings on this mountain.

Coming soon: another surprise we had in store for our guests that you may want to steal for your wedding, how we made a weekend of it, and how we incorporated kids in the celebration in a way that was fun for them (and let parents have a blast, too!).

Vendors:

• Florals: A Thistle and a Twig
• Vintage Rentals: A Bushel and a Peck Vintage Rentals
• Photography: Olson Design Photography
• Displays/Signage: Raye and Co.
• DJ: Mohr Fun Events
• Catering: Reid’s Catering
• Transportation: Trinity Transport

Wedding Tips Spotlight Series

Planning a wedding inevitably comes with financial considerations. A common question we often hear is, “How much do couples usually spend on their weddings?” The truth is, each couple and wedding is unique, and so are the budgets. Having hosted celebrations across a broad spectrum of budgets, we’ve gained insights into the delicate balance of splurging and saving when planning a wedding. While the decision of where to allocate your budget is entirely yours, we’re here with some practical tips to help you craft a day that’s exactly what you envision, whether you’re inclined to splurge or looking for smart ways to save.

Florals can add a breathtaking touch to your wedding, but they can also be a significant expense. One savvy way to make the most of your floral budget is to repurpose ceremony arrangements at the reception– we’ve seen them in the welcome area, at sweetheart tables, and even adorning the dance floor. Former Overlook Barn bride Jen Adams shared that her ceremony and cocktail hour arrangements seamlessly transitioned into the reception, saving on additional floral costs.

Savings Tip : Focus your flower budget where you’ll capture the most photos. Deck out your ceremony arbor or create a stunning head table, and opt for smaller arrangements elsewhere.

Choosing a non-peak wedding day can significantly impact your budget when booking a venue. Being flexible with your date, especially considering Fridays, Sundays, or weekdays, might get you the venue of your dreams at a fraction of the cost. At Overlook, we offer discounted rates for the beginning and end of our season (April, early May, and November). Booking during these times on a non-Saturday could mean substantial savings (like 50%!) without compromising access and amenities.

Managing alcohol expenses can be crucial, especially with an open bar. Creative approaches like limiting the selection to beer and wine or featuring a couple of signature drinks rather than a full open bar can help. Importantly, ask your venue if there are any alcohol minimums and consider bringing your own alcohol if your venue allows. At Overlook Barn, we permit couples to bring their own alcohol, allowing them to enjoy a fully stocked bar at a fraction of the cost.

Savings Tip : Bringing your own alcohol not only allows you to target what you know your guests love but can also be a significant cost-saving strategy.

If there’s one area where we recommend splurging, it’s on your photographer. Your wedding photos will be cherished long after the big day, serving as timeless reminders of the moments that made it special. Professional wedding photographers capture both the grand and subtle moments, ensuring every detail is preserved for years to come and it’s important that you really like your photographer’s style.

Savings Tip : Olson Design Photography suggests that if you’ve found your dream photographer but their price point is out of reach, inquire about a smaller package for the key moments of the day like ceremony, portraits, first dances, and toasts rather than a package that includes the entire reception and dancing portion of the night.

Decor and tablescapes vary widely in cost, but a simple tip to save in this category is to choose a venue you love even without elaborate decorations. If your venue has a natural appeal, you may feel less pressure to spend extensively on decor, knowing it will be beautiful without much embellishment. For example, we’ve had couples who loved the natural look of our custom-made farm tables, so they opt not to rent or buy linens and instead leave them uncovered. As you can see, they look great either way:

Savings Tip : Consider renting place settings and decor instead of buying. Professional assistance and guidance can help you curate the perfect tablescape without the hassle of purchasing and storing items.

While the gesture of wedding favors is sweet, it’s worth considering that they add an additional cost to your budget. More and more couples are opting to skip favors, and it’s absolutely okay! Your guests are there to celebrate your love, and many will appreciate the heartfelt moments and experiences of the day over a small token. If you’re looking to trim your budget, skipping favors can be a practical choice.

Savings Tip : Consider arranging a station where guests can create their own floral arrangements at the end of the night. Provide kraft paper, ribbon, and scissors, giving your guests something to take home while allowing your wedding florals to be cherished a little longer — a win-win!

No matter where you choose to splurge or save, trust that your wedding day will be special and unique to you as a couple. We’ve yet to host a wedding that wasn’t a beautiful celebration, regardless of the budget.

Photography Credit (in order):

• Floral Photos:Michelle Lyerly Photography
• Bar Photo: Brett and Jessica Photography
• Photography: Olson Design Photography
• Tablescape Photos: Megan Sheppard Photography & Mark Federighi
• Floral Station: Boonetown Story Photography

Amanda and WT Prove It! Draw Inspiration from their Elegant & Intimate Celebration

Intimate weddings have a certain charm that warms the heart, and Amanda and WT’s wedding serves as a beautiful reminder of the magic these gatherings can hold. With a clear vision in mind, they set out to create an unforgettable, close-knit affair, surrounded by loved ones and the breathtaking natural beauty of the mountains. Their dream wedding came together in less than four months, proving that a truly amazing wedding can be achieved without years of planning.

Amanda and WT wanted their love to resonate amidst the mountaintops, and their dream became a reality during their stunning August ceremony, adorned with jaw-dropping details. Flora & Fauna Designs transformed the outdoor space into a romantic haven, lining the aisle with delicate rose petals and creating a luxurious floral arbor in a classic, creamy color palette. To enhance the intimate atmosphere, vintage benches from Bushel and a Peck were arranged to face the couple, emphasizing closeness and togetherness. Against the backdrop of rolling mountains, Amanda and WT exchanged their vows in the presence of their eighteen closest family members and friends.

After the heartfelt outdoor ceremony, everyone gathered at Cliffside Barn for an elegantly intimate reception. The reception tables were thoughtfully arranged in a “U” shape, promoting a sense of togetherness and fostering easy conversation during the intimate dinner catered by Reid’s Catering . Warm candlelight, petite floral arrangements, and personalized dinner menus at each place setting adorned the beautiful tablescape. Capturing every cherished moment, Salt & Ivy Photography and Hightower Film were there to ensure that the day would be forever preserved in photos and film. Amanda and WT’s wedding was filled with touching moments and stunning details, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

If you’re currently planning your own wedding and feeling overwhelmed, take some sage advice from the bride herself on how to navigate your special day:

“Always prioritize what is best for you and your partner. This day is meant to celebrate your love and commitment. Don’t get caught up in trying to plan an extravagant event that causes unnecessary stress and detracts from the true meaning of a wedding. Weddings come in all shapes and sizes, so focus on how you and your partner want to celebrate your commitment to one another.”

Feeling inspired by Amanda and WT’s elegant and intimate wedding? Let their story guide you as you create your own magical celebration, tailored to your unique love story. Remember, the true essence of a wedding lies in the love shared between you and your partner.

Vendors:

• Venue: Overlook Barn
• Coordinator: Events by Elizabeth Ashley
• Florist: Flora and Fauna Designs
• Photographer: Salt & Ivy Photography
• Videographer: Hightower Film
• Rentals: A Bushel and A Peck Vintage Rentals
• Hair : Battleborn Beauty
• Caterer: Reid’s Catering
• Music: Craig Vaughn
• Makeup: Aesthetics by Hannah

Wedding Tips Spotlight Series

Perhaps one of the most common questions we get asked as a wedding venue is whether couples really need to hire a wedding coordinator. After years of weddings and experience in the industry, we can tell you that the answer to that question is absolutely yes, if you want a seamless and stress-free day. At Overlook, we go a step further by requiring couples to enlist a professional day-of coordinator. Why? Because we’ve witnessed firsthand how wedding days operate more effortlessly and joyfully with a coordinator by your side. But let’s delve into the question that often arises – what exactly does a coordinator do that I can’t manage myself? Whether you’re seeking assistance for day-of coordination or comprehensive planning support, here’s what you stand to gain:

Skillful Management of Logistics

Crafting the perfect timeline and configuring layouts for the various segments of your day can be an overwhelming task. It’s easy to overlook critical details or lose track of communications, whether it’s with your vendors or wedding party. This is precisely where a coordinator proves invaluable. Most coordinators will collaborate with you to construct a tailored timeline and layout (some even create it based on your discussions with them!), ensuring all your vendors are aligned for your big day. On the actual wedding day, they take charge of logistics – supervising vendor arrivals, orchestrating setups as per your vision, and ensuring a seamless flow according to your timeline. From safeguarding the safe passage of rings to orchestrating decor arrangements, gown bustles, and more, your coordinator handles it all. This means reduced stress for you and your loved ones throughout the event, as the coordinator manages any potential hiccups without your awareness.

Guest Guidance

Often overshadowed but equally pivotal, a wedding coordinator excels in guiding your guests. This becomes especially relevant if your wedding involves multiple events – ceremony, cocktail hour, toasts, dances, cake cutting, and more. Ensuring guests are in the right place at the right time is vital to prevent them from missing out on any cherished moments. This is where your coordinator takes the reins. They diplomatically direct your guests, allowing leeway for any latecomers and maintaining a punctual schedule. From escorting guests to their ceremony seats to coordinating their arrangement for your grand exit, your coordinator is your day’s steadfast guide.

Unhindered Enjoyment for You and Your Guests

A myriad of efforts goes into both setting up and dismantling your wedding space. While Overlook provides an adept team for arranging and dismantling our furnishings, a wedding coordinator offers an unparalleled advantage. They are typically the ones responsible for adorning your chosen decor in the morning and carefully packing it up after the festivities. You, along with your guests, can revel in the celebration without concerns about folding linens, tidying sparklers, assembling and disassembling candles, or any other decor elements vital to your vision. You can simply relish the moment, bask in the joy of the day, and leave the logistics in expert hands.

We understand the significance of selecting the right coordinator and assembling a remarkable vendor team to manifest your envisioned day. That’s why we equip each of our couples with a meticulously curated preferred vendor list, spanning every facet from coordinator to getaway car and everything in between. This comprehensive roster is consistently updated based on feedback from our couples and our team’s experiences with various vendors. This guarantees that we endorse only the best. Rest assured, utilizing our preferred vendor list, you can find a splendid coordinator (and more!) who aligns perfectly with your aspirations.

At Overlook Barn, your wedding journey is enhanced through the wisdom of an experienced coordinator, ensuring your day radiates flawlessness and magic in equal measure.

At Overlook Barn, we sincerely believe that weddings can be beautiful, rain or shine. Karen and Allison’s special day served as a testament to this belief, as they embraced the rainy weather and radiated joy throughout their celebration. Thistle & Twig Floral Design’s stunning orange and white blooms, citrus trees, and fresh greenery transported guests to the warm Tuscan countryside. Enhanced by the barn’s enchanting string lights, Cynthia Viola Photography skillfully captured the love and ambiance of the occasion. Join us as we delve into the delightful details of this remarkable wedding!

Karen and Allison infused their wedding day with personal touches that made it truly extraordinary. Among these was a heartfelt blessing stone ceremony, where family and friends shared handwritten notes, blessing their union. These messages, along with rose quartz stones symbolizing love and support, were carefully placed in a bag, signifying the beginning of their journey together.

The couple’s engagement in the picturesque mountains of North Carolina and their cherished memories of Beech Mountain made Overlook Barn the ideal venue for their nuptials. Serendipitously discovered during a weekend trip, it captured their hearts as the perfect place to say “I do.” To honor their connection to the High Country, Karen and Allison enlisted the services of local vendors. Blue Deer Cookies delighted guests with delectable treats, while Happy Trailers provided local craft brews that added to the festivities.

A remarkable aspect of this wedding was the intentional inclusion of LGBTQ-celebratory vendors. The lead singers of the wedding band, Courtney Lynn and Quinn, are happily married themselves. Moreover, Karen and Allison’s chosen officiant, along with her wife, played a significant role in the ceremony and celebration, amplifying the sense of unity and love.

Weather notwithstanding, these radiant brides exuded love and happiness. Surrounded by the warmth of their loved ones, the vibrant orange and cream floral arrangements, and the rustic elegance of the barn, their day was unforgettable. It was a true honor for us to host this exquisite celebration and bear witness to the profound love that Karen and Allison share.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Karen, Allison, and their families for choosing Overlook Barn as the backdrop for their magical day. It was an honor to share in their joy and celebrate their love.

Take notes from Christina and Kenny’s Eco-Chic Earth Day Wedding

One of our favorite parts of every wedding day (besides the love and joy we’re privileged to witness) is getting to see the special and unique touches each couple incorporates, showing us some of the things most important to them. Christina and Kenny’s beautiful Earth Day wedding was no exception— they had many beautiful touches that were both eco-friendly and reflective of them as a couple.

After intentionally choosing to be married on Earth Day amidst the beautiful long-range views and natural beauty of our property, Christina and Kenny wanted to hire their dream team of vendors (all from our preferred vendor list, FYI!) who they knew would nail their eco-friendly wedding vision. Joelle Parks Events Co. were the amazing planners and coordinators– sustainability is a core value of their business, so it was a match made in heaven! Thistle & Twig’s Floral Designs warm neutral spring blooms brought an classic, elevated feel to the natural wood tones and warm string lights of the Overlook Barn, which was complemented by Miss Match Rentals’ gorgeous rented place settings. Olson Design Photography and Flightless Bird captured the warm and inviting feeling of the room perfectly in photo and video. Take a look at some of the amazing, intentional details from this beautiful day and get inspired for your own sustainable wedding!

It was important to Christina and Kenny that there was as little waste as possible from their special day, so they made intentional decisions to eliminate waste where they could. Everything from the day, from the place settings to the decor, was either rented, reused or donated after the wedding. The couple opted to rent some gorgeous place settings that complemented their decor from Miss Match Rentals . In addition to the reduction of waste through renting, this business gives new life to beautiful vintage place settings– another special and sustainable touch that you can give to your own wedding.

Another thoughtful way the couple chose to prioritize sustainability was to arrange for their flowers to be donated to a nursing home following the event! Tip: this typically has to be pre-planned in advance and you can do so by checking with your florist and/or wedding coordinator in advance to see if this is an option for your own wedding flowers.

Transportation was also provided by High Country Transportation , which eliminated the need for multiple separate cars to be driven to the wedding (and allowed guests to truly relax and enjoy themselves since they had a safe ride home!)

Another really special touch Christina and Kennny incorporated into their day was treating their guests to a delicious, fully vegetarian menu. The couple is vegetarian themselves, and it was important that their wedding reflected that– something that Reid’s Catering executed flawlessly with a tasty latin-inspired menu.

In the spirit of supporting local business and also putting a unique twist on the traditional wedding dessert, the couple opted to treat guests to a cookie trailer from Blue Deer Cookies . The trailer, placed in the fire pit, gave guests the perfect opportunity to go outside and enjoy a tasty treat while watching the sun set and taking in the gorgeous view.

Everything about this amazing day, from the elimination of single-use items to the naming of the signature drinks after their beloved dogs, perfectly reflected Christina and Kenny and their eco-friendly values. It was a perfect day, and we were absolutely honored to host this beautiful Earth Day Wedding!

Vendors:

• Coordinator: Joelle Parks Events Co.
• Caterer: Reid’s Cafe & Catering
• Ceremony & Cocktail Music: Summit Strings
• Music: Bunn DJ
• Photographer: Olson Design Photography
• Videographer: Flightless Bird
• Transportation: High Country Transportation
• Desserts: Blue Deer Cookies
• Flowers: Thistle & Twig
• Rentals: Miss Match Rentals
• Hair: Battle Born Beauty
• Makeup: Sharla Bance

Wedding Tips Spotlight Series

You’ve found your loving partner (congratulations!), and now you’re searching for your ideal wedding venue. We know that choosing where you get married can be as overwhelming as it is exciting, so our team has used our combined years of wedding expertise to make this curated guide that can be used when you’re talking to and touring different venues. This guide includes things to look for while touring and communicating with venues, questions to ask the venue, and questions to ask yourself as you make your decision. Whether your dream venue is a barn or a ballroom, this guide will help you find the perfect one for your special day!

Prior to the tour, determine:
• What is your expected guest count (hint: typically approximately 75% of invited guests attend)
• What is the venue’s capacity and can your expected guest count fit comfortably?
• What is the venue’s pricing?
• What does that pricing include (are furnishings included)?
• Are there food or beverage minimums?
• What are others saying about the venue (hint: check Google, The Knot, and WeddingWire reviews at a minimum)

Questions to ask on your venue tour:
• What options do you have for where ceremonies are held? This is especially important for outdoor venues– you want to be sure there is an amazing alternate option in the case of inclement weather!
• What options do you have for the reception space? Are you allowed to have bands and/or DJs?
• How do couples find their vendors? Do you have a preferred vendor list? If so, how do you determine who is on it?
• Where do guests typically stay when weddings are held here?
• How long do we have access to the venue?
• Do you have places to get ready on-site, or would I need to arrange my own place to get ready the morning of the wedding?
• Who will be my point of contact during the planning process?
• What requirements (if any) do you have for your couples? Are there any costs associated with those?

Questions to ask yourslef:
• Can you picture yourself getting married here?
• Does it fit into your budget keeping in mind venue requirements and food and beverage minimums?
• Can you see yourself working with the venue team?
• Do the venue reviews fit with the experience you want for your special day?

We recommend visiting a few different venues so you have options to compare, leading you to the best fit. At Overlook Barn, we give completely free tours of the entire venue (offered both virtually and in person), with no obligation to book. We hope we get the honor to celebrate with you, but either way we hope this guide is helpful for you as you find your dream venue!

Wondering what wedding trends and styles to expect for weddings in 2023? Over the past eight years, our team has seen many different wedding trends take the event world by storm. We firmly believe that each couple’s wedding vision is unique to them, and is beautiful no matter how it aligns with the current ‘trends’– but we thought it would be fun to share what will and won’t be popular as we enter this new season! Here’s what we’ll be seeing more– and less– of in the 2023 wedding season:

What’s in for 2023?

Color

In recent years, we’ve seen neutral, minimalist aesthetics take over the industry. We have so much love for those color schemes and it never fails to amaze us when we see our barn transformed into a boho or modern minimalist dream. But, if Pantone’s 2023 Color is the Year is any indication, color will be making a comeback this wedding season! Kahly Antal, owner and lead designer at Thistle and a Twig Floral Design , shares that she is hearing more requests for good, saturated colors and large scale statement floral displays going into 2023. From bold and bright to light and whimsical, we’re excited to see how couples have fun with color in their wedding designs.

Sustainable practices

Joelle Parks, owner and event planner at Joelle Parks Events Co., says that over the past few years she’s seen many couples place an emphasis on intentionality and sustainability for their wedding day. They no longer want to do things just because it’s tradition or they feel like they ‘have to.’, That is a trend that is only going to grow going into 2023. We see this trend taking hold in many ways, but just to name a few: purchasing decor with the intention of using it in everyday life after the wedding (think vases, dried florals, etc), buying flowers grown locally, buying decor secondhand to give it a new life (there are Facebook groups and websites dedicated to this purpose for weddings!), and creating a station so guests can bundle and take flowers home with them as wedding favors. Eco-chic, eco-luxe, whatever you want to call it– sustainable weddings are in!

Vintage throwback decor

We will continue to swoon over amazing modern aesthetics this season, but in 2023 we’ll also start to see more traditional touches reminiscent of our parents’ wedding days. From vintage cakes with detailed piping, to pearl accessories, vintage attire, velvet accents, and larger-than-life floral displays, we’ll be seeing the throwback aesthetic everywhere this season. Randi, founder and lead designer at Sugar Euphoria , says that vintage style cakes have been making their way back into her couples’ mood boards ever since Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton’s show-stopping multi-tier wedding cake was shared.

Giving photographers artistic license

You’re familiar with the traditional ‘family portrait’ time on a wedding day, where all the family and wedding party gathers to take photos with the couple in different groupings. While this is a great way to ensure you have the photos you want with everyone, in the new season we’ll be seeing a shift towards couples prioritizing more natural, candid photos of moments with family and friends throughout the day. In the same vein, we are seeing couples trusting their photographers to make works of art so you can also expect to see more blur-motion photography, film photography, and artistic license in general! The result: beautiful and authentic photos to cherish for years to come.

Non-uniform wedding party attire

In the last couple of wedding seasons, we’ve been seeing an increase in mismatched wedding party attire, where the wedding party is given a color and chooses their own outfit cut and style based on that theme. We know it can be hard to find an outfit everyone is going to love and feel comfortable in, and mismatched cuts/styles in the same color has been the perfect solution. In 2023, more couples will go a step further with non-uniform color as well as style! Most couples have multiple colors associated with their wedding vision, and we’ll be seeing more of these colors reflected in the wedding party attire.

What’s out for 2023?

Guest favors

In the shift for couples to be more conscious of sustainability in their wedding planning, guest favors will be one of the first things to go. Historically, while favors can make for a cute photo, they are often left behind by guests and ultimately become waste after the wedding day comes to a close. In this new wedding season we’ll see more couples opt either for sustainable wedding favors such as thrifted mugs or cups, a treat, live plants, or no favor at all. After all, you’re already hosting an amazing evening of food, drink, and celebration for your guests and many are no longer expecting a favor! Tip: want to offer guests a favor and extend the life of your beautiful florals? Offer a bouquet bundling station complete with scissors, kraft paper, and ribbon at the end of your reception.

Firework Displays

Another example of a shift towards sustainability– couples are taking into consideration the environmental impact of fireworks. Instead, couples will come up with creative ways to close out their celebration like cold sparkler machines to light their path, colorful smoke bombs, or ribbon wands. Oh, and let’s not forget the last dance– a beautiful solo moment for the couple during the last song of the evening as guests are lining up for the exit.

Uncomfortable Footwear

We may still see a stiletto or shoe that gives more height, but more and more brides in 2023 will opt for both comfort and style by wearing a vintage ballet flat, pearl-accented low-heel mule, embroidered sneaker, or other cute flat-soled shoe. They can dance the night away without any pain, and have more occasions to re-wear the shoe after the wedding.

Our stunning property has been host to so many unique and beautiful celebrations, and Vishwa and Anuj’s wonderful traditional Indian wedding weekend was no exception! Leading up to their wedding, you could feel the excitement and anticipation from our team as we prepared for the multi-day celebration. Between our Overlook Barn, Cliffside Barn, Mary’s Meadow, and on-site house, the couple and their guests were able to enjoy each part of the three-day event all in one place. The weekend was filled with color, great food, perfect sunny weather, gorgeous views, and an abundance of joy for everyone involved. Guests came from all over the US, and some even flew from India to celebrate Anuj and Vishwa. This was truly a destination wedding for the couple and their guests, with the mountains providing the perfect backdrop throughout the weekend.

There were many beautiful traditions that took place throughout the weekend, each one filled with meaning and meant to usher the couple into a great marriage. On Friday, the Ganesh Puja was conducted to bless the couple with an obstacle-free wedding and a beautiful marriage. Following it was the Haldi ceremony in Cliffside Barn, where the families apply turmeric to the couple to mark a prosperous beginning of their new life together.

On Friday evening, Mary’s Meadow was transformed with warm lights and color for the Sangeet. Family and friends performed dances for the couple, and they continued dancing into the evening underneath the lights and stars. This was perhaps one of our team’s favorite and most memorable moments of the weekend with all the color, and the true joy emanating from the couple and guests as they danced.

For Saturday’s events, the couple opted for more minimalistic decor to showcase the natural beauty of the barns and mountains. The day kicked off with the Baraat, an exciting celebration where Anuj and his family danced down the driveway to the beat of drums and music–one last ‘party’ before Anuj entered into his life of marriage with Vishwa.

Following the Baraat was the wedding ceremony in Mary’s Meadow, where the couple exchanged garlands and tied their dupattas (scarves) together before beginning the mangal pheras. The couple held each other’s hands and completed 4 circles around the fire, giving a promise support each other throughout the four stages of life: dharma (to pursue life’s religious and moral duty), artha (to pursue prosperity), kama (to pursue earthly pleasures), and moksha (to pursue spiritual salvation). Anuj actually drew the design himself for what Vishwa wore during this ceremony, making it her most treasured outfit from this meaningful weekend.

Later that evening, everyone gathered for a reception in Overlook Barn, which had been decorated with elegant greens, blues, and classic florals. The night was filled with dancing and fun as guests celebrated the officially married couple. A send-off brunch the following morning capped off what had been a truly beautiful weekend of excitement and tradition.

By the end of the three days, our team felt we truly knew the couple and guests and were even more connected to the joy as a result. This was a group who knew how to have fun, and we were so honored to have been part of it.

Can’t get enough from this wonderful weekend celebration? Hear from Vishwa herself, and enjoy their wedding video using the link below! “We had our destination wedding at Overlook Barn in July 2022, and it was the wedding of our dreams. Our immediate families are from Illinois and Georgia; however, we had guests attending from North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, California, Texas and also all the way from India. Since most of them had not been to Beech Mountain, it brought us so much joy to see them enjoying our wedding as well as the destination. It was also really nice to have all our events in the same place as it allowed everyone to spend quality time together rather than worrying about getting to different venues for each event. We were the first ones in our families to have a destination wedding in the mountains so our guests could not stop complimenting us on how beautiful it was.

We’re truly blessed to have had the most magical and perfect wedding.”

Watch Vishwa and Anuj’s wedding video:

Vendors:

• Venue: Overlook Barn
• Coordinator: K. Scott Weddings
• Caterer: Maa Vimla Catering
• Music: Carolina Elite Events
• Photographer & Videographer: Pixel 6 Studio
• Decorator: Katen Shah Designs
• Rentals: Boone Parties Too
• Hair & Makeup: Fresh Aire Bridal
• Wedding Outfits: Aagman in Ahmedabad, India
• Reception Outfits: Asopalav in Ahmedabad, India
• Sangeet Outfit: Chamee and Palak

Each and every season on our property is truly filled with its own beauty, and summer is no exception. In fact, Overlook Barn was actually born in the midst of summer. Our owners Katie and David had the first wedding there in August 2015—so you know summertime holds a special place in our hearts here at Overlook. Whether you’ve been dreaming of a beautiful summer wedding in the North Carolina mountains, or you’re not quite sure what that looks like, consider this your guide to Overlook Barn weddings in the summertime.

Perfect Golden Hour Shots

With summer comes longer days and later sunsets, which means ample time to take photos in the warm, golden sunlight. The Overlook Barn property has no shortage of stunning locations for a photo op, with our 40-mile views and the beauty of nature surrounding you.

Comfortable Temperatures

While most places in the summer might be scorching, many people come to our fun mountain town to escape the heat. Being that we’re at an elevation of over 5,000 feet, we rarely have humidity or temperatures above 80 degrees on our property. Even in the middle of summer you and your loved ones will be comfortable outside in the fresh mountain air. We’ve even seen couples set up lawn games outdoors for their guests to play during cocktail hour, so they can continue to enjoy the breezy weather and views before the reception kicks off.

Guest Entertainment

We’re nestled on the top of Beech Mountain in the destination town of Banner Elk, NC. Guests will love to visit the area because summer in Banner Elk means tons of activities for them to not just visit, but vacation. Golf courses, restaurants, breweries and wineries, hiking trails, ziplining, and many other outdoor activities await them—all within just miles of the property! Your guests will love spending time in this amazing area no matter the season, but something about summer makes sipping a glass of wine or playing a round of golf while looking over the beautiful mountains feel even better.

Warm, bright, lush, and beautiful, there’s nothing quite like summer in the mountains. We can’t wait to see what magic our summer couples bring!