Things to do in the Fall - Charlotte, NC

Things to do for Couples in the Fall near Charlotte, NC

Fall in Charlotte, the foothills and mountains is truly a special time! At Redbird Ridge Estate, you can enjoy the vibrant colors of foliage on Barretts mountain while taking a hike, utilize the shooting range, archery target, or axe throwing targets, relax by the pond, or cuddle with your SO by the firepit. With onsite lodging in the cabin by the woods, couples can enjoy more than a day in the foothills to take in all the great things to do in the fall.

fall flowers on cross with mountain backdrop

As the temperatures cool and the trees burst into color, there’s a certain magic that fills the air. Whether you’re planning a couples adventure, a relaxing weekend with friends, or just looking for ways to enjoy the seasonal beauty of the area, Charlotte and surrounding areas are packed with activities that will help you make the most of the fall.

Couple pumpkin picking Carriage Farms things to do in the fall

Pumpkin Picking at Local Farms

Ready to start your fall with some classic fun? Head to one of Charlotte’s many pumpkin patches! Farms like Carrigan Farms are perfect for a day trip—they let you pick your own pumpkin and enjoy crisp, fresh air. While you’re there, don’t miss out on their charming apple orchards too! You’ll get the full fall experience—with apples, pumpkins, and plenty of great photo ops. Such a great thing to do in the fall for couples.

people standing in line at windy hill orchard

Apple Picking at Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery

If apples are more your style, Windy Hill Orchard & Cidery (just a short drive south to York, SC) is calling your name. Stroll the orchard, pick your own apples, and treat yourself to delicious apple-cider donuts or a refreshing tasting of hard cider. Wagon rides and tasty apple treats make this spot an autumn favorite for couples.

Scarecrow at Scarowinds things to do for couples in fall

Get Your Thrills at Scarowinds

Love a good scare? Carowinds transforms each fall into Scarowinds—a haunted theme park adventure with spooky mazes, scare zones, and costumed creepers. Open mid-September through October, Scarowinds is a can't-miss destination for thrill-seekers. Tip: buy tickets early and consider visiting on a weeknight for shorter lines and more chilling fun! For those that enjoy a scare, this is a great thing to do for couples in the fall.

Fall Festivals Around the City

Autumn in Charlotte means festival time! Whether you’re craving delicious food, arts and crafts, or lively music, there’s a celebration waiting for couples.

crowd of people at renaissance festival things to do for couples in the fall in Charlotte
  • Carolina Renaissance Festival: Head to Huntersville on weekends for jousting, medieval eats, and entertainment that will transport you and your crew back in time. Open Saturdays and Sundays, from October 4th through November 23rd, 2025.

  • Festival in the Park: From September 20-22, Freedom Park is the place to be for outdoor performances, local artistry, and fun for couples.

  • Apple Festival Extravaganza Check out the 35th annual Apple Festival in downtown Taylorsville in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains on October 18, 2025. The town transforms for the iconic Apple Festival. With hundreds of vendors, stages of live music, apple recipe contests, crafts, and carnival energy, it’s one of North Carolina’s most beloved autumn celebrations. The aroma of fresh apple pies and cider fills the air as locals and visitors mingle in true Southern spirit.

Taylorsville apple festival sign things to do for couples Charlotte
Blue Ridge Mountain bridge fall colors leaves things to do in fall

Marvel at Fall Foliage in the Blue Ridge Mountains

One of the best parts of living in Charlotte is how close you are to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Plan a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway for unforgettable leaf-peeping and breathtaking mountain views. Pack a picnic, hit a hiking trail, and enjoy the colors of fall in full splendor.

Musician on stage with lights and pyrotechnics at PNC Music Pavilion

Enjoy Outdoor Concerts

As autumn breezes in, Charlotte’s live music scene moves outdoors. Venues like PNC Music Pavilion host concerts throughout the season. Look for artists like Hootie and the Blowfish (September 19) or Post Malone (October 7) for an evening of fun under the stars. Check out more concerts on their site. Concerts are so enjoyable for couples to do in the fall.

couple holding beers at Oktoberfest things to do in fall Charlotte NC

Celebrate Oktoberfest

Charlotte’s breweries roll out the barrels for Oktoberfest celebrations—don’t miss Mecktoberfest at Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, where you can enjoy authentic food, beer, and lively music in a festive outdoor garden. They serve German fare like pretzels w/ bier cheese, sausage, schnitzel, and more. 

Mecktoberfest is spreading the excitement across FOUR weekends!

September 12-14: LoSo Location
September 19-21: LoSo Location
October 3-5: Ballantyne Location
October 10-12: Ballantyne Location

Hiking Adventures at Crowders Mountain State Park

For active autumn days, a hike at Crowders Mountain State Park (about 30-minutes from uptown) is hard to beat. Cooler temperatures make for perfect hiking weather, and the gorgeous fall foliage you’ll see from the summit is worth every step.

creepy coffin creek poster at 13th acre things to do in the fall

Haunted Walking Trail at The 13th Acre

Located in Monroe, just east of Charlotte, an eerily silent haunted trail captures the attention of many. Unknown creatures create chaos and mayhem in the area at night, but no one ever dares to enter it to know the truth. Are you brave enough to find out what lies in there? Feel as if you are walking right into your worst nightmare when you and your friends see how far you can go through The 13th Acre. This walking event is not for the faint of heart.

Hiddenite Arts Festival people on lawn things to do in the fall

Celebrate Hiddenite’s Arts & Heritage

On September 27, 2025, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, discover Appalachian creativity at Hiddenite’s Celebration of the Arts event. Enjoy artisans, live demonstrations, folk music, and many flavors of homemade food—all in a festive outdoor setting.

brushy mountain golf course things to do in the fall

Tee Off Amid Autumn Scenery

Golf in the foothills is spectacular in fall! Brushy Mountain Golf Club and Player’s Ridge offer sweeping fairways and the warmth of October sunshine.

Tour Lucas Mansion

If you like art and culture, step into history at the Hiddenite Arts & Heritage Center’s Lucas Mansion. The period rooms, art exhibits, and fall events invite you to savor a time gone by against a backdrop of autumn beauty.

lines mill and waterfall - things to do in the fall

Experience Linney’s Mill

Visit this historic, working grist mill to learn about local agricultural roots and enjoy picturesque fall surroundings—plus stone-ground cornmeal and grits. Linney’s Mill is a family business, one of the few fully operational and producing mills in existence in North Carolina. You can watch as it works, producing corn meal with water-wheel powered grinding stones. William’s father, W.L. Linney, built a dam and installed the waterwheel on Rocky Creek, north of Statesville, in 1937.

Gems in bowl at Emerald Hollow Mine things to do in the fall

Hunt for Gems at Emerald Hollow Mine

Emerald Hollow Mine is the only Emerald Mine in the world open to the public for prospecting. They are nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Brushy Mountains located in Hiddenite North Carolina. This is recognized as one of the most unique and interesting geological locations in North America. More than 60 different types of naturally occurring gems and minerals have been discovered here. Many of these are very rare and include emerald, aquamarine, sapphire, garnet, topaz, amethyst, citrine, rutile, and tourmaline. Hiddenite being the 4th rarest gemstone in the world, can only be found in this small town of hiddenite, North Carolina. Open 7 days a week, 8:30am-6:00pm.

Charlotte in autumn is a welcoming, festive place with so many things to do in the fall, whether you want pumpkin patch photos, spooky fun, crisp mountain hikes, or delicious festival food. So grab your coziest sweater, grab your SO, and celebrate the best of fall in and around Charlotte.

Bride, groom and bridesmaids at mountain side ceremony in the fall

Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 24 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.

Contact Us to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!

For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Redbird Ridge Estate:

If you liked this blog, then check out this one: Sorority Recruitment Guide to App State

Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this Wedding Venue Map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!

Read More

Engagement Party Favors for a Charlotte Wedding

Ideas for engagemeng party favors for a Charlotte wedding

Ideas for engagement party favors for a Charlotte wedding

I love a party! And even more than that, I love to share a personal party favor with guests before they leave. It tells them I care about them enough to share something thoughtful – a bit of a surprise for them. It reminds me of going to McDonald’s when I was a kid and getting a happy meal with a prize inside – always a delight! As a Charlotte wedding venue owner of Redbird Ridge Estate, I love to see the look on people’s faces when they get that party favor at the end of the event.

If you're searching for the best wedding venue in the Charlotte area or a versatile and accommodating event space in Alexander County, make sure you check out Redbird Ridge Estate.

Planning an engagement party in or around Charlotte, North Carolina? Make your celebration unforgettable with the perfect engagement party favors that reflect your style and delight your guests. Whether you’re looking for unique, personalized, or budget-friendly options, this guide covers the best engagement party favor ideas for Charlotte weddings.

Cupcake with diamond ring topper for engagement party favor

Why Engagement Party Favors Matter

Engagement party favors are a thoughtful way to thank your guests for celebrating your upcoming wedding. They also set the tone for your wedding theme, showcase your personality as a couple, and create lasting memories for everyone involved.

Trending Engagement Party Favor Ideas for Charlotte Weddings by theme

1. Personalized Engagement Party Favors

  • Custom matchboxes, wine carafes, and coasters featuring your names and engagement date (love these!) are always a hit. Personalized favors add a special touch and can double as decor for your Charlotte engagement party.

  • Popular options include personalized Hershey’s Kisses, custom shot glasses, and engraved bottle openers—perfect for any celebration.

Personalized coaster for engagement party favor

3. Practical & Fun Favors

  • Can coolers (koozies) with witty engagement slogans, hangover kits, and personalized playing cards are both practical and memorable.

  • Heart-shaped tea bags or mini succulents make charming take-home gifts, especially for garden or outdoor engagement parties in Charlotte.

mini succulent for engagement party favor

2. Edible Engagement Party Favors

  • Treat your guests to local flavors with mini honey jars, celebration sugar cookies, or bags of gourmet popcorn. Packaged individual cupcakes with a diamond ring topper is always a winner. Edible favors are universally loved and can be customized to match your wedding colors or theme.

  • For a Charlotte twist, consider engagement party favors featuring local honey or artisan chocolates from North Carolina.

4. Themed Engagement Party Favors

Match your favors to your engagement party theme. For a rustic Charlotte wedding, consider wildflower seed packets or handmade soaps as eco-friendly engagement party favors.

Below are some suggestions for some of the top engagement party themes:

Charcuterie & Champagne – custom foil bath bomb, packaged decadent chocolates or personalized gold foil Hershey kisses.

Bath bomb with gold foil for engagement party favor

Boozy Brunch – A champagne bottle party favor is super fun. Match your chosen colors with a candy of your choice to add to the bottle. How about with gummy bears?

Rustic – I love the vintage nature of these milk jars. Customize the label to fit your style.

Tying the Knot milk bottles for engagement party favor

Bonfire Bash – Try packaged smore’s as an engagement party favor with a label for friends and family to enjoy at home.

Italian Lovers – the flavors of Italy can be shared with your guests with an almond or chocolate biscotti cookie in cellophane bag with a personalized label. Bread and olive oil is also a great engagement party favor.

Italian Biscotti cookie for engagement party favor

Garden Party – Eucalyptus or lavender scented soap adds the perfect touch to a garden themed engagement party.

Beach/Pool/Tropical - Citrus luffa soap with an dried orange slice or personalized fans fit this engagement party theme.

Parisian Fete – Packaged mints have been used for years and is a classic engagement party favor. Personalize it with your names and “Mint to be”.

Packaged mints for engagement party favor

Movie Night – You cannot pass up on this appropriate engagement party favor - popcorn in a jar.

Taco Fiesta – An airplane bottle of tequila with a personalized label or cactus soap works well with this engagement party theme. A small succulent in a container with a label works great too!

English Tea Party – I love this theme and the engagement party favor of a personalized labeled glass test tube that contains real dried tea. It can be decorated with jute rope, bow and kraft tag paper that says, “Love is brewing”.

dried tea in a test tube for engagement party favor

Tips for Choosing the Best Engagement Party Favors in Charlotte

  • Consider your venue: Outdoor venues in Charlotte are perfect for garden-themed favors, while chic urban spaces pair well with modern, personalized gifts.

  • Match your wedding style: Let your engagement party favors reflect your wedding theme—rustic, elegant, boho, or classic Southern charm.

  • Personalize your favors: Customization makes your gifts more meaningful and memorable for your guests.

  • Support local: Incorporate Charlotte-made products or North Carolina specialties for a local touch.

Where to Buy Engagement Party Favors in Charlotte

  • Online retailers like Etsy, My Wedding Favors, Zazzle, and Kate Aspen offer a wide selection of engagement party favors, from personalized gifts to themed decor.

  • Local Charlotte boutiques and artisan markets are great places to find unique, locally sourced wedding favors.

Discover creative engagement party favor ideas perfect for a Charlotte wedding. Explore unique, personalized, and locally inspired favors to delight your guests and complement your celebration.

Choosing the right engagement party favors for your Charlotte wedding is about blending personal style, practicality, and a touch of Southern hospitality. By focusing on unique, personalized, and locally inspired favors, you’ll create an unforgettable celebration.

Make your engagement party one to remember with thoughtful favors that your guests will love and cherish!

Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 22 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.

Contact Us to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!

For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Redbird Ridge Estate:

Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this Wedding Venue Map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!

Read More
engaged, engagement, wedding, engagement party Alisa Dwyer engaged, engagement, wedding, engagement party Alisa Dwyer

Planning an Engagement Party

Planning an engagement party in Charlotte NC

The Complete Guide to Planning an Engagement Party in Charlotte for 2025

As someone with an intense love and passion for hospitality, planning an event is exciting – but let’s be honest – it can feel overwhelming! As a Charlotte wedding venue owner at Redbird Ridge Estate, I’ve learned having a plan and timeline is essential to a smooth planning process.

If you're searching for the best wedding venue in the Charlotte area or a versatile and accommodating event space in Alexander County, make sure you check out Redbird Ridge Estate.

Celebrating your engagement is the perfect way to kick off your wedding journey! In 2025, engagement parties are all about personalization, creativity, and making memories with your closest friends and family. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning an engagement party in Charlotte that is memorable that reflects your style and love story.

1. Decide Who Hosts

Traditionally, the bride’s family hosted the engagement party, but today, anyone can take the lead—parents, friends, or the couple themselves. Discuss early on who will host and what budget is available, as this will shape many other decisions.

2. Set the Date

Aim to host your engagement party within the first few months after your proposal, while the excitement is still fresh. Most couples pick a date about three months post-engagement, but there’s flexibility if you need more time or if guests will be traveling. Weekend evenings (Friday or Saturday) are popular, as they’re convenient for most guests.

3. Create the Guest List

Your engagement party guest list is typically smaller than your wedding guest list. Traditionally, only those invited to the wedding are invited to the engagement party. However, if you want to celebrate with a wider circle, just be clear if some guests won’t be at the wedding itself. Decide early to avoid confusion and awkwardness.

4. Choose a Venue

Pick a venue that fits your guest list, budget, and desired atmosphere. Options include:

  • Private homes (yours, a family member’s, or a friend’s)

  • Unique venues with stunning property where guests can roam

  • Restaurants or private dining rooms

  • Trendy bars or cocktail lounges

  • Gardens, parks, or backyards for a relaxed vibe

  • Unique spaces like art galleries, rooftops, or even a poolside

Consider the convenience for guests—choose a location central to most attendees or consider hosting separate events for different groups if needed.

5. Pick a Theme

Themes set the tone and help guide your decisions on décor, food, and attire. For 2025, popular engagement party themes include:

  • Charcuterie and Champagne

  • Boozy Brunch

  • BBQ

  • Bonfire Bash

  • Seafood Boil

  • Hot Cocoa Celebration (for winter engagements)

  • Pool Party (for summer)

  • Around the World (international cuisine and décor)

  • Wine and Cheese Night

  • Great Gatsby/Roaring ’20s

  • Pop culture themes (like Friends or meme parties)

Choose a theme that feels authentic to you as a couple and fits your venue.

6. Send Invitations

Once the date, venue, and guest list are set, send invitations about 4-6 weeks in advance. Digital invitations are popular and eco-friendly, but printed invites add a special touch. Include clear RSVP instructions and any notes about dress code or theme.

7. Plan the Menu

Your menu can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Options include:

  • Passed appetizers and cocktails

  • Buffet-style meals

  • Sit-down dinners

  • Themed food stations (taco bar, dessert bar, etc.)

  • Potluck (guests bring dishes to share)

Match the menu to your theme and consider dietary restrictions.

8. Decor and Ambiance

Decorations help set the mood. For 2025, trends include:

  • Candlelit ambiance for romance

  • Fairy light canopies

  • Neon signs with custom messages

  • Personalized banners, balloons, and photo displays

  • Themed tableware and centerpieces (think ring-shaped toppers or travel-inspired décor)

Don’t forget a playlist or live music to keep the energy up—choose tunes that encourage mingling and celebration.

9. Outfits and Photography

Select outfits that fit your theme and venue. Some couples opt for coordinated looks or colors. Hire a photographer or ask a friend to capture candid moments, or set up a DIY photo booth with props for guests to enjoy.

10. Favors and Thank You’s

Party favors are optional but appreciated. Consider small tokens like mini bottles of bubbly, custom cookies, or themed keepsakes. After the party, send thank you notes to guests and hosts to express your gratitude.

Sample Planning Timeline

1 Month After Engagement

  • Set budget and hosting arrangements

  • Decide on party style (formal, casual, etc.)

  • Draft guest list and gather contact info

  • Book venue and vendors

2 Months After Engagement

  • Send invitations

  • Plan décor and attire

  • Create a registry (if desired)

3 Months After Engagement

  • Confirm RSVPs

  • Finalize menu and playlist

  • Host the party and celebrate!

Final Tips for a Seamless Engagement Party

  • Personalize the event to reflect your relationship.

  • Delegate tasks to friends or family to reduce stress.

  • Focus on celebrating—don’t let perfectionism overshadow the joy.

With thoughtful planning, your engagement party will be a joyful, unforgettable start to your wedding celebrations in 2025!

 

Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 22 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.

Contact Us to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!

For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Redbird Ridge Estate:

Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this Wedding Venue Map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!

Read More
wedding, couples, engaged, wedding pricing Alisa Dwyer wedding, couples, engaged, wedding pricing Alisa Dwyer

The Top 5 Questions Couples Ask About Their Wedding

Top 5 Most Common Questions Couples Ask When Planning Their Wedding

I’ve had the privilege of helping countless couples navigate the often overwhelming process of planning their big day. Whether you're embarking on your wedding planning journey or already deep into the process, it’s essential to have clarity on the most common questions that arise. Today, I’m diving into the top 5 questions I get from couples and providing you with expert insights that will help you create the wedding of your dreams.

1. “Where do we even start?”

My Take:
The first steps are often the most overwhelming—but that’s where I come in. Start with your vision: the feeling you want guests to walk away with. Is it timeless elegance? A laid-back garden party? A glam city soirée? Once we anchor your aesthetic and priorities, everything else—venue, vendors, timeline—will follow with clarity. My planning framework breaks it down into phases to prevent overwhelm and ensure we stay ahead of every detail.

Pro Tip: Focus on your top 3 priorities first. For many, it’s venue, photography, and catering—but for others, it might be entertainment, floral design, or fashion. There’s no “right” order—just the right one for you.

2. “How do we stay within budget?”

My Take:
Budgeting isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about maximizing value. As a seasoned wedding professional, I help couples allocate funds wisely based on their priorities, guest count, and vision. Think of your budget as a strategic tool, not a constraint.

Pro Tip: Always build in a 10-15% contingency fund for unexpected expenses or dream upgrades you’ll fall in love with during the process (because let’s be honest—there will be a few!).

3. “How do we make our wedding feel like us?”

My Take:
Personalization is the secret sauce to an unforgettable wedding. From signature cocktails and customized vows to handpicked music and meaningful décor elements, every wedding should tell a unique love story—yours. My approach is to uncover the essence of your relationship and translate it into design and experience.

Pro Tip: Infuse your story into the little details—your invitation suite, escort cards, even your food choices. That’s what guests remember.

4. “How do we choose the right vendors?”

My Take:
Your vendor team is your wedding dream team—and hiring the right ones is crucial. I’ve cultivated relationships with the most talented and reliable creatives in the industry. I personally vet every vendor I recommend based on quality, professionalism, and alignment with your vision and budget.

Pro Tip: Choose vendors whose work you admire and whose personalities you vibe with. Chemistry is key—you’ll be working closely for months, sometimes years.

5. “What if something goes wrong on the big day?”

My Take:
Real talk: something small almost always goes off-script—but with a pro team (and a contingency plan), you’ll never know it happened. My job is to handle hiccups before they hit your radar so you stay present, peaceful, and fully immersed in the magic of your day.

Pro Tip: Trust your team. If you've hired professionals, you've already done the hardest part. Let go, be in the moment, and enjoy every second—you only get this day once.

Final Thoughts

Planning your wedding is a journey—but you don’t have to walk it alone. With the right guidance, it can be joyful, creative, and deeply personal. As a trusted leader in the wedding world, I’m here to make that vision real—seamlessly, beautifully, and stress-free.

Ready to take the next step? Let’s design the day you’ll remember forever.

As the owner of a Charlotte wedding venue, Redbird Ridge Estate, I have had the honor of guiding couples through one of the most meaningful journeys of their lives. Planning a wedding is exciting and fun, but having the right tools is key to making it a successful event.

If you're searching for the best wedding venue in the Charlotte area or a versatile and accommodating event space in Alexander County, make sure you check out Redbird Ridge Estate.

Whether you're newly engaged or deep in the planning process, here are the top five questions I hear from couples—and my advice to help you navigate them with confidence.

1. “Where do we even start?”

My Take:
The first steps are often the most overwhelming—but that’s where I come in. Start with your vision: the feeling you want guests to walk away with. Is it timeless elegance? A laid-back garden party? A glam city soirée? Once we anchor your aesthetic and priorities, everything else - the venue is first, then vendors, timeline, etc. will all follow and fall into place.

My planning framework below breaks it down into phases to prevent overwhelm and ensure we stay ahead of every detail.

Pro Tip: Focus on your top 3 priorities first. For many, it’s venue, photography, and catering—but for others, it might be entertainment, floral design, or fashion. There’s no “right” order—just the right one for you.

2. “How do we stay within budget?”

My Take:
Budgeting isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about maximizing value. As a seasoned wedding professional, I help couples allocate funds wisely based on their priorities, guest count, and vision. Think of your budget as a strategic tool, not a constraint.

Pro Tip: Always build in a 10-15% contingency fund for unexpected expenses or dream upgrades you’ll fall in love with during the process (because let’s be honest—there will be a few!).

3. “How do we make our wedding feel like us?”

My Take:
Personalization is the secret sauce to an unforgettable wedding. From signature cocktails and customized vows to handpicked music and meaningful décor elements, every wedding should tell a unique love story—yours. My approach is to uncover the essence of your relationship and translate it into design and experience.

Pro Tip: Infuse your story into the little details—your invitation suite, escort cards, even your food choices. That’s what guests remember.

4. “How do we choose the right vendors?”

My Take:
Your vendor team is crucial - this step should not be taken lightly as it is your wedding dream team—and hiring the right ones can make or break your day. I’ve cultivated relationships with the most talented and reliable creatives in the industry. I personally vet every vendor I recommend based on quality, professionalism, and alignment with your vision and budget.

Pro Tip: Choose vendors whose work you admire and whose personalities you vibe with. Chemistry is key—you’ll be working closely for months, sometimes years.

5. “What if something goes wrong on the big day?”

My Take:
Real talk: something small almost always goes off-script—but with a pro team (and a contingency plan), you’ll never know it happened. My job is to handle hiccups before they hit your radar so you stay present, peaceful, and fully immersed in the magic of your day.

Pro Tip: Trust your team. If you've hired professionals, you've already done the hardest part. Let go, be in the moment, and enjoy every second—you only get this day once.

Planning your wedding is a journey—but you don’t have to walk it alone. With the right guidance, it can be joyful, creative, and deeply personal. I’m here to make that vision real—seamlessly, beautifully, and stress-free.

Ready to take the next step? Let’s design the day you’ll remember forever.

Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 22 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.

Contact Us

to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!

For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Redbird Ridge Estate:

Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this Wedding Venue Map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!

Read More