Destination weddings have been the craze for many years now and the Carolinas are no stranger to this concept. Historic, brick laden districts, river towns, sandy beaches and rolling mountains place both North and South Carolina in the destination wedding cataory with locations such as Jamaca, Mexico and the Adorondacks. Born and raised in coastal North Carolina, I have a special place in my heart for couples that choose to hold their big day in "my neck of the woods". As a wedding planner by trade but a life planner by nature, it is a great joy to offer more than just wedding services to my brides. As a native of the Carolina lifestyle I enjoy letting couples in on the secrets of where to get the best shrimp and grits, which area boasts the most stunning sunsets, where to get the "poshest" service, etc, etc... The Carolinas hold hundreds of perfect destination wedding locations and over the next few weeks we will spend time getting to know some of the areas that are perfect for the occasion. We begin our tour with the small, friendly, relaxing beach town of Kure Beach, NC...Situated just 20 minutes south of Wilmington, NC, Kure Beach is one of several beach towns located on Pleasure Island. It is also seated just before the historic and picturesque area of Fort Fisher. Bathed in rustic and homey southern charm, Kure Beach is a gem burried in the sand. Known to fishermen worldwide for its pier and fishing, Kure Beach is also well equipped to handle small to medium sized weddings on the sand, at a lovely and colorful ocean front home or at many other locations. Dinning choices range from the seafood cafe, to the steak and seafood house to the option of having your event catered with elegant cuisine. Atlantic Avenue boasts the beach's best views with its wooden walkways and gentle breezes. Couples have the ultimate setting with the golden sand, froathly ocean waves and green sea grasses. Ceremony decore can range from the simple arbor to the even more simple but powerful statement of letting nature speak for itself and be the main decore.
Locals enjoy the opportunity to share their piece of paradise so when visiting be sure to inquire about the area's offerings in terms of food, lodging and activities. In nearby Fort Fisher, the NC Aquariuam at Fort Fisher is a beautiful option for the reception or rehearsal dinner. Dine in front of the shark tank and relax as twinkle lights glow from the railings above. Palm laiden outdoor spaces are available as well as elegant indoor areas. Sting rays, turtles, jelly fish and other aquatic life add to the party as they glide effortlessly in tanks around the Aqarium. The sea horse tank is a special treat and the perfect place for a gift station. Events coordinator Terry Bryant and assistant coordinator Emily Bullock are available Mon-Fri to help plan the wedding of your dreams. Rent the Aquarium's crystal fish for an amazing centerpiece or utilize a local florist to tie in your theme. Visit their website at http://www.ncaquariums.com/fort-fisher to learn more about this stunning venue.
Be sure to take advantage of the unique grove trees that grow along the Fort Fisher shore; the shady groves are perfecy for memorable pictures and romantic strolls. Sitting between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Fear River gives Fort Fisher water views from almost every angle and affords the history buff a plethora of sites to see and information to gather. Families and couples alike can rent a small beach cottage of stay at on of the inns located on the island. For more information on this quaint beach town, visit the Pleasure Island Chamber of commerce at http://www.pleasureislandnc.org/ and be sure to check the section dedicated to wedding regulations and rules.
Photo left & center courtesy of Gary & NC Aquarium at Ft Fisher
