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Commonly asked questions
    These are some of the questions that brides-to-be have most frequently asked about weddings in Wilmington and the Cape Fear region. Click on the "Go" buttons to see the editors' answers.
Beach wedding basics: We are thinking about getting married on the beach. We are wondering how to coordinate this, whom we can contact, and the marriage requirements and documentation needed for the service. Any information you could provide would be wonderful.
The editors reply: Go

Downtown reception sites: We are having a church wedding in downtown Wilmington, so we wanted to have our reception downtown as well. I really need some suggestions on reception sites that aren't extremely expensive! Please provide any feedback that you have about good reception sites and if you have to have a caterer, etc.
The editors reply:

Casual, low-cost reception ideas: I am trying to do a casual wedding on a budget. I would love to have the wedding and reception at the same location. We would like to have a dance floor and would love a place that required minimal decorating. A lunch buffet reception would be great to save money. What restaurants can you recommend?
The editors reply: Go

Topsail Island reception halls: I am looking for options for a wedding reception on or near Topsail Island. We don't require a traditional reception site, but are looking for something close to the ocean (preferably with beach access or at least a view), maybe that will allow our guests to be both indoors and outdoors. We prefer a venue that will allow us to use outside caterers as well as a band.
The editors reply: Go
The brides's responsibilities for the shower: Does the bride have any responsibilities for the bridal shower? I feel like I should be doing something.
The editors reply:

Mansions and historic sites: My fiancee and I are looking to do our wedding in a beautiful plantation-style setting. We want a facility that allows both in-house and outside accommodations. Which of these locations would be worth visiting and do you have other suggestions?
The editors reply: Go

Places for an outdoor wedding: I am currently looking for outdoor sites to have my wedding. Any ideas or suggestions?
The editors reply: Go

Churches for mixed religious background: We have a mix of religions between our families so we would love to have a non-denominational church. What can you suggest?
The editors reply: Go
 
Bridal Forum
Dialogue about Cape Fear area weddings
 
Free classified ads | Beach weddings | Contact the editors

   Have a question you'd like to pose to other brides, to wedding vendors, or to the editors? Something on your mind you'd like to share? The Cape Fear Wedding Bridal Forum is an open discussion page, which anyone can read. To post on the forum, however, you must be a registered bride or groom. The editors may offer responses, or seek answers from Cape Fear area vendors.
Post comments
 Go to form
    We encourage free discussion of weddings, wedding locations, vendors, and related topics. The editors do monitor the forum, and reserve the right to delete any postings that are deemed abusive or libelous.
    SEE: Bridal registration page to be eligible to post on the page.
    NOTE: Postings are organized by category. The newest postings are at the top.
Quick index of current topics
A wedding on a budget
Beach weddings
Bridesmaids
 Destination weddings
Family conflicts
Historic sites
 In-law issues
Outdoor weddings
Reception sites
 Selecting a vendor
Wedding ceremony locations
Wedding planners

Postings from Brides & Grooms
A wedding on a budget Go back to list of topics
Posting: Ideas for a small budget
   "I'm on a small budget and want the wedding to be a big hit. Where would be the best place, and I need a hotel that doesnt charge an arm and leg cause everyone would be flying in and need a place to stay."
Posted by:  Cassia of jacksonville on Monday, November 26, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Beach weddings Go back to list of topics
Posting: Rental House Weddings
   "Does anyone have any recommendations for ocenfront rental homes in the Topsail area that would be appropriate wedding sites?"
Posted by:  Catherine  of Powell on Thursday, April 17, 2008   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Response to Ft Fisher
   "I'm getting married at Ft. Fisher in July. You can choose a location on the historic site. If you want to reserve the gazebos or the area under the oak trees it is $250. If you want to reserve the sand down on the recreation site (by the Aquarium) it is $30. Mine will be on the sand. Very easy to reserve. My reception is at the Beau Rivage. They are so friendly there and very reasonable prices! It is only a short drive from Ft Fisher. We are renting a trolley for our wedding party ($260 for one hour)."
Posted by:  Martha of Rougemont on Friday, May 25, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: A Time and Place for the ceremony
   "My fiance and I would like to get married on Wrightsville beach somewhere.. any suggestions on a specific area or time?"
Posted by:  Annmarie of Parma on Monday, May 21, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Any suggestions?
   "We live around the Charlotte area, but planning a wedding in Sept 07 in Wrightsville Beach. Do not have an "official planner". Trying to save some cost since we are paying for it ourselves. Does anyone have any ideas as far as reasonable vendors in the area or know of any particular spot for a ceremony. We are looking for a beach wedding. I am just not familiar with how a beach wedding works. Thanks!"
Posted by:  Shanna of Huntersville on Friday, March 09, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Beach Wedding
   "My fiance and I are getting married in October and we are deciding to get married on the beach at either Sunset Inn or the Ocean Isle Inn. I would really appreciate it if anyone knew anything about the two places. Thank you very much!"
Posted by:  Heather of Hope Mills on Thursday, March 01, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Sunday Wedding
   "I am in need of someone who can help me with my hair as I am getting married on the beach on a Sunday in May. I'm looking for a salon in the Wilmington area that can either send someone or can open for a few hours after 1:00pm on that Sunday. I am from out of town so I am needing some assistance!"
Posted by:  Erin of Cincinnati on Tuesday, February 06, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Fort Fisher feedback, anyone?
   "I'm planning a late April '08 wedding at Ft. Fisher and would love to hear from anyone who held their ceremony there. Also, any advice for a reception location close at Carolina Beach?"
Posted by:  Lindsey of Smithfield on Tuesday, January 02, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Bridesmaids Go back to list of topics
Posting: Bridesmaid pant suits
   "I am going non-traditional here and would LOVE to have pant suits for my bridesmaid. flowy pants and a stapless or halter type top and rainbows...i'm not finding this anywhere!! any help in the right direction would be appreciated, thanks!"
Posted by:  Wendy of Leland on Tuesday, June 19, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Do attendant numbers need to be equal?
   "Etiquette, can I also have honorary bridesmaids if I want more people in my wedding than my groom does?"
Posted by:  Kathy of Wilmington on Tuesday, January 02, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Destination weddings Go back to list of topics
Posting: Response to Reception site
   "If you do the Wilmington area, the Beau Rivage has a beautiful banquet room with seating for up to 250 and they have about 26 rooms there which are very reasonably priced for your guests."
Posted by:  Martha of Rougemont on Friday, May 25, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Family conflicts Go back to list of topics
  Sorry, we don't have any current postings under this topic.
Historic sites Go back to list of topics
  Sorry, we don't have any current postings under this topic.
In-law issues Go back to list of topics
  Sorry, we don't have any current postings under this topic.
Outdoor weddings Go back to list of topics
Posting: Bench Rentals
   "A Tent Event has white benches @t $25/per I believe... Jeff & Lavada are great to work with... (910)256-6404."
Posted by:  Melissa of Wilmington on Tuesday, May 13, 2008   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: White bench rentals
   "We're getting married on Wrightsville Beach and would love to have white benches as our seating. Does anyone rent these?"
Posted by:  Teresa of Carolina Beach on Thursday, April 24, 2008   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: RE; Airlie Worries
   "My personal opinion is that Airlie is way too expensive for what you get from them. I lived less than a mile from there for 20 years and yes, it does flood. Also, the parking is minimal, the restrictions are insane, and it cost's extra to have your wedding photos done there. I have known this not to be an issue until the day of the wedding which caused quite an uproar from the bride. The fact that Airlie is really one of a kind means that they (the owners) can do pretty much whatever they want.... and they do."
Posted by:  Amber of Jacksonville on Friday, November 02, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Airlie Worries
   "Has anything heard anything about problems with flooding and parking at Airlie Gardens? I booked the garden yesterday and today someone told me that when it rains there, everything floods and it becomes a muddy mess. He also told me that there wouldn't be enough parking for all of our guests (we are expecting close to 300). Any information would be greatly appreciated!"
Posted by:  Ericka of Leland on Friday, October 26, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Place
   "Could someone please help me :) I am new to the area and planning a wedding for no sooner than late August if not later and was wondering.. Where is a nice/safe/beautiful place for an outdoor wedding in the Wilmington area as well as a nice reception spot thats indoor with maybe a river or ocean or some sort of nice view?"
Posted by:  Christina of Wilmington  on Friday, April 27, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Location in case of rain
   "We are also planning a wedding out that way. I cannot help you out as far as info...sorry. But I was wondering if you found a place in case of rain (yuck). We are in the Charlotte area and I am clueless in this planning process."
Posted by:  Shanna of Huntersville on Friday, March 09, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Rain backup for beach wedding?
   "Planning on getting married at Wrightsville Beach Public Access 44... but we're lost on where to have a contingency for rain. Any ideas?"
Posted by:  Carie of Wilmington on Wednesday, January 24, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Reception sites Go back to list of topics
Posting: RE: rental houses
   "When I was originally looking for a beach house to rent in Topsail for a small reception, I found this realty: http://www.treasurerealty.com/rentals/100ovl/100ovl.htm"
Posted by:  Courtney of Wilmington on Wednesday, April 23, 2008   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Beau Rivage
   "Please don't panic over not getting Danielle on the phone. She is swamped, but is a professional and will return your call. The packages are a great deal with many advantages. You may need to be a bit more proactive than you planned (IE contact vendors directly if you can) This will ease your mind and help the process along. Congrats!"
Posted by:  Valerie of Wilmington on Saturday, February 09, 2008   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Beau Rivage reception--- any problems?
   "Hey there! I'm from Greensboro and we're planning our wedding at Beau Rivage. They offered an incredible deal and we put our deposit down, but now I can't seem to get in touch with the caterer/coordinator, Danielle. Is anyone else planning on having their reception at Beau Rivage? Is this common or should I be worried? THANKS!"
Posted by:  Jennifer of Greensboro on Wednesday, February 06, 2008   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: RE: Fort Fisher
   "I really don't know much about it, but you can have your wedding, reception, or both at the Aquarium now. I've only seen pictures but it looked beautiful. It's worth making the phone call. I have no idea what they charge though. Wish I could be more help."
Posted by:  Amber of Jacksonville on Friday, November 02, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: renting a beach house for a reception
   "We got married in Southport and rented a beach house in Oak Island. We had the rehearsal dinner there, through Better Beach Rentals. It worked out great, they require to have one person there to supervise and you pay by the hour. The lady that came was so nice, helped out and fit right in. Everyone thought she was a guest. Better Beach Rentals had all the information we needed (permits for bon fires etc.). We found them by going to the Cape Fear Bridal Expo. They had a booth. Hope it helps a little."
Posted by:  Christine of Winnabow on Tuesday, October 30, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: renting a beach house for a reception
   "Does anyone know how to go about renting a beach house for a reception? I am getting married at Fort Fisher and am interested in renting a beach house in Carolina or Kure Beach for a small reception, but all of the rental places I have spoke to do not allow any type of receptions. Any ideas??"
Posted by:  Courtney of Wilmington on Monday, October 29, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Fort Fisher
   "Can you hold a reception at Fort Fisher? Do you have any info?"
Posted by:  Jeanne of Raleigh on Tuesday, June 19, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Reception site at Wrightsville
   "I am getting married at Arlie Gardens in Sept. I want to have the reception outdoors and I need help finding a good place. I want to be by the ocean or sound. Does anyone have any leads?"
Posted by:  Jeanne of Raleigh on Tuesday, June 19, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Wedding reception at Bluewater
   "We are thinking about having our ceremony at Airlie Gardens and the reception at Bluewater or The Surf Club. Has anyone had a ceremony/reception at either place? Please let me know your thoughts/suggestions? I was kinda set on having "assigned" seating, but this cannot be possible at Bluewater. The ambiance may outweigh this? I would appreciate any thoughts ~ Thank You!!!"
Posted by:  Shelly of Wilmington on Tuesday, May 22, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Selecting a vendor Go back to list of topics
Posting: Cakes
   "I am looking for a great recommendation for cakes."
Posted by:  Ashley of Leland on Monday, April 14, 2008   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Salon Recommendation
   "I use Lavish Salon on Military Cutoff Road here in Wilmington they are great and not too overpriced."
Posted by:  Patricia of Wilmington on Sunday, April 06, 2008   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Warning to Wilmington Brides
   "I attended my cousin's most beautiful wedding this past Saturday in Wilmington. I am from out of town, as were a lot of her other guests. I would like to post this as a warning to all brides about a vendor that we used. We got our hair and make up done at Dynamic Images on Princess Street in Wilmington. Prior to our appts, the bride had confirmed pricing for all of our services. After we got our hair and make up done, some of us were shocked by the fact that they charged DOUBLE what they quoted on the phone. Myself, got my hair washed and blow dried, and they charged me $65, which was $40 more than what they told me AND the bride on the phone. I was not the only victim, the bride herself, her sister and another bridesmaid were also victims of this. I am planning a wedding myself, and I know how stressful choosing vendors can be, so please just take this as a warning to anyone looking to use this salon for services. They are dishonest and extremely unprofessional. Buyer beware!!"
Posted by:  Jill of Trinity on Monday, November 05, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Finding a caterer
   "You should have heard back by now. If you really are interested in this caterer, then try giving them a call. Otherwise, I say move on to the next caterer. We got married in Southport and used Pine Valley Market Catering for our reception. They were great and the food was excellent!!! I highly recommend checking them out. Ask for Christi. She helped "design" our menu of food. She is very good at what she does."
Posted by:  Christine of Winnabow on Tuesday, October 30, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Finding a caterer
   "What is a reasonable amount of time for a caterer to get back with you with a quote? I have been waiting for over two weeks now. Is this common practice? I am beginning to think maybe my business is not that important to them. I don't understand this is well known caterer in this area. Thanks, Becky"
Posted by:  Becky of Leland on Thursday, August 30, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Wedding ceremony locations Go back to list of topics
Posting: What to Get for Gift
   "You can never go wrong with gift cards from places like Bed Bath and Beyond or Target or JCPennys these are all good place and a gift card is alway perfect."
Posted by:  Chrissie of Wilmington on Wednesday, September 19, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: What to get for a wedding gift!!!
   "Hey, I have been invited to a wedding. The girl that is getting married is a daughter of my co-worker. What do I get for a wedding gift? I have met her daughter once and I don't really know her taste. I asked her mother and she just keeps saying, " Get her anything you like". Please help me with this one!!! Thank you! "
Posted by:  Chase of US on Monday, September 17, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Wedding site with an irish/scottish flare
   "I am looking for any place that might have some irish or scottish theme to it. we are both involved in our ancestry and want to incorporate that into our wedding. we are having a simple but elegant wedding with just family and few friends. Our wedding will have scottish and irish music and decorations. any help will be great. thank you"
Posted by:  karlene of Watha on Tuesday, June 05, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Wedding planning
   "I live in Charlotte, but would like to get married in Wilmington this fall. I was considering a wedding planner since I'm not familiar with the area. Does anyone have any experience with wedding planners in area? Also, I'm just starting the planning. Will I be able to find a wedding location this late in the year? Thanks!"
Posted by:  Erin  of Charlotte on Wednesday, March 28, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Need ideas for Topsail Island ceremony
   "I need a ceremony location on Topsail Island. I had planned on having it at the Catholic Pavilion on the island, but they have changed their mind (a year later). I want a semi-outside place for about 150 guests ... covered. A tent is a last resort. The wedding is March 31. (The reception is at the Assembly Building and I would rather not have the ceremony there...) Any ideas are so very welcome."
Posted by:  Darlene of Arlington, VA on Friday, January 19, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Wedding planners Go back to list of topics
Posting: Reply to Krystal of Jacksonville
   "Hi Krystal... I'm Amber. I also live in Jacksonville and am planning a Wilmington wedding in May 2008. I lived in Wilmington for 20 years (Most of my life, I'm only 25 lol) and know it like the back of my hand. If you need any help at all, I'd be happy to do whatever I can. I'm pretty much planning mine by myself so another persons opinion would probably do me some good as well! Drop me an email if you'd like to talk at KAYTIE72782@yahoo.com"
Posted by:  Amber of Jacksonville on Friday, November 02, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Wedding Coordinators?
   "Has anyone heard about good wedding coordinators in town? I've been interviewing several and I'd like to know if anyone has a recommendation."
Posted by:  Ericka of Leland on Friday, October 26, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: RE: Help with planning
   "Hey Sarah...my name is Victoria and I am trying to help my sister plan her May 08 wedding. We live in jacksonville and are lookin for info in having the wedding/recept in the wilmington area. really could use some help...thanks"
Posted by:  Krystal of Jacksonville on Monday, July 23, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Reply regarding cost of dresses designed by Amsale
   "Hi Shelly -- I found this listing on brides.com: "Silk zibeline and shimmer tulle dress, $3,700, by Amsale, amsale.com" I am guessing the dresses designed by her are in the range of $2000 to $5000, maybe more, maybe less. Hope this helps. Her style is really fabulous, isn't it?"
Posted by:  Roseann of Wilmington on Sunday, June 24, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: We are having a Commitment Ceremony 10-11.08
   "I am very uneasy I want everything to go perfect. I have a gown, and place for the ceremony, and the reception hall, Lions Gate. I want Angie's to cater, I think. Not a dinner just hot and cooled foods kinda heavy. We are getting married at 3:00p. I do not have a DJ. Or flowers, and decorations. We want a Disco reception colorful and exciting. Cake cutting and of course and garter. The service will be very traditional. I need favors, gifts for my wedding party. And wantevery else I need. We have been to gether for 27 years. Next year in January it will be 28. It is going to be my Farytail Wedding."
Posted by:  Sonia of Wilmington on Sunday, June 24, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Bridal gowns
   "I was wondering if anyone has an idea of how much a bridal gown designed by amsale costs. I love her style, but can't find any information about pricing. Thank you."
Posted by:  Shelly  of Wrightsville Beach on Monday, June 11, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: RE: Help with planning
   "Hey Brooke, I don't know if you've found any help with affordable Bridal Consulting yet or not, but I've found the best tool is the Cape Fear Wedding Planning book. As far as someone to help, I'm currently planning my own wedding for April 2008 and have everything pretty much lined up and ready to roll. I'm considering a career as a wedding planner since I have experience with planning parties and events. I would be more than happy to help you along the way for free! Just one future bride helping out another. I've already contacted a lot of the vendors and suppliers in Wilmington, and currently meeting with Florists so I'd be happy to share the information with you. Just let me know if you need any help, from one future bride to another!"
Posted by:  Sarah of Wilmington on Monday, March 12, 2007   Post a reply. Go
 
Posting: Help with planning
   "I don't have family close enough in town for help, what are my best options for help with planning that won't be pricey?"
Posted by:  Brooke of Wilmington on Tuesday, August 01, 2006   Post a reply. Go
 
 
 
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