Reception Locations

Brides

hen the bride’s mother is one of the region’s leading floral designers, expect to see beautiful, dramatic decorations. Wendy Wright of A Beautiful Event brought an original twist to seasonal themes for her daughter’s December wedding reception in the coastal community of Sneads Ferry, N.C.

Heidi prepares to enter the clubhouse for her reception, escorted by her father, Elmer Hudler.

Lighting effects provided by DJ Professionals and Video included "wall washes" in warm red tones, and the "signature light." This can project the couple's names and initial on a wall or the floor.

Candles shine on the tables when the lights are dimmed for a slow dance by the bride and groom.

Wendy's table decorations included white and silver branches, icy light-catching crystal accents, lots and lots of brilliant red roses and a seasonal treat: gingerbread men.

Mom helps Heidi with her jewelry and elegant black formal gown. Jamie Marston did her makeup.

he bride’s family lives in Sneads Ferry, the coastal fishing village on the New River, right next to Camp Lejeune. Following a civil ceremony, newlyweds Brandon and Heidi received their guests at the Escoba Bay Club House in Sneads Ferry.
    Brandon Longo is a firefighter with the fire departments of nearby Camp Lejeune and the town of Holly Ridge. His career was reflected in a unique Groom’s Cake, and in special ride for him and his bride.

Brandon with his mother Barbara Longo.

Cake artist Taylor Ross created this groom's cake in honor of Brandon's vocation. He's a firefighter and emergency medical technician with Camp Lejeune and the Holly Ridge Fire Department.

Calligrapher and custom stationery designer Jennifer Borkowski lettered the place cards.

er professional connections with other wedding vendors helped the mother of the bride design the perfect reception. Wendy arranged to trade services with Brian McArtan of DJ Professionals & Video, who provided the sound system, music, lighting and videography.
    In turn, A Beautiful Event supplied the flowers and decorating service for Brian’s Feb. 21, 2009 wedding to TinaMarie Goesswein.

    For more on Brian & TinaMarie's Wedding,
SEE DJ's Wedding.
    Wendy turned the plantation-style clubhouse into a “winter wonderland,” decorating its balconies and stairways with seasonal garlands and lights. Heidi selected Christmas decor in honor of her favorite time of year. The event was held on the long Thanksgiving weekend so members of both families would all be able to attend.

Guitarist Aaron Longo performed for the guests.

Reception site: Escoba Bay Club House,
     Sneads Ferry
Flowers & Decorating: Wendy Wright,
     A Beautiful Event
Coordinator: Melissa Bucci Fallis
Photography: Matt McGraw Photography
Groom's Cake: Taylor Ross, Sweet T's Cakes

Videography: DJ Professionals & Video
Music, audio & lighting effects:
    DJ Professionals & Video
Invitations, menu & programs:
    Jennifer Borkowski Designs
Musicians: Aaron Longo, guitar;
    Stacy Wells, vocals

Sparklers lit the couple's way out
of the clubhouse to meet their ride.

They departed in a fire engine
from Holly Ridge Fire Department