Guest Blog by Lindsey Epperly, Owner of Vacations By Lindsey:
When brides-to-be think of destination weddings, they often think of tropical islands, warm breezes and a bright blue ocean. However, as destination wedding specialists, the Chancey Charm team and I know that there are so many destination options beyond the typical beach locations. One of my favorite venues is the Ritz Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation, located on beautiful Lake Oconee in Greensboro, GA. This amazing property, only an hour and a half drive from Atlanta, is where Carrie Underwood married hockey player husband Mike Fisher – if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us!
I was fortunate enough to spend a weekend here recently and fell in love with the hotel, the location, and the setting. With several breathtaking ceremony locations, from the ballroom to lakeside lawn, the hotel is perfect for indoor or outdoor weddings year round. Imagine the most charming Southern location, ideal for everyone attending your wedding weekend. Your guests can choose from the individual hotel rooms, or you can choose from a selection of homey cottages for a more intimate experience (complete with their own BBQ butlers – you’re not in the South until you’ve had a little BBQ and sweet tea!).
The groom and his friends can play on the world-renowned golf course, while you and your bridesmaids head to the spa, one of the top ten in the country. Families can take advantage of the Ritz Kids program, where your flower girl and ring bearer will learn about Native American history. In between these events, everyone will enjoy the lake activities, from kayaking to jet skiing. If you have a winter wedding, everyone will look forward to cozy nights with a cup of hot cocoa in the lodge and complimentary ice skating. Don’t forget about the hotel’s signature dessert which is perfect for any season: s’mores around the fire pit!
The night before your wedding if the weather is right treat your guests to a sunset cruise on the Spirit of Oconee, the Lodge’s two-story pontoon boat, for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before the rehearsal dinner. After seeing the property, I can’t think of a more unique place for your rehearsal dinner than the secluded forest, where I experienced firsthand the level of service and food quality that the Ritz Reynolds Plantation provides. From herbed chicken and fresh salmon to fontina mac ‘n cheese and sweet potato tarts, the dinner selections are almost too delicious for words, you’ll just have to try them all yourself!
For your wedding day, envision a picture-perfect setting under the arbor for your I Do’s, the sparkling Lake Oconee as the backdrop to your ceremony. After the vows, the Ritz staff will have an array of gorgeous white tables arranged on the lawn at a reception designed to meet your every need.
After my personal stay, I only had one complaint: two nights was just not enough time! I would highly recommend the property for your big day, and it makes an ideal honeymoon or anniversary location if you aren’t able to travel out of the country.
If the convenience and unique charm of the Ritz Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation has captured your attention, get in touch with us today to begin planning your dream destination wedding!
Best,
Lindsey Epperly
