We knew right away we wanted a rustic wedding, speaking to both our childhoods. With my family from…read moreVirginia, my groom's family from Alabama, and our love of North Georgia, we zeroed in on several properties throughout this area. After visiting over five properties, all were either too rustic or too cookie cutter perfect. On our final site visit, we knew we had found THE place at Mountain Laurel Farm.
The farm is located just inside the Chattahoochee National Forest which provides so many scenic views. Driving up, you're just taken away by the tranquil peace of the property. The barn itself is quite rustic, but it's so charming and still provides the basic necessities (restrooms, electricity). Although there is no climate control, we had no issue with the heat on our wedding date after opening all the doors and windows and adding a few household fans. I do wish there had been more resources in the catering room; I'm hoping Melody can make some upgrades there in the future (running water/industrial sink, ice machine, larger fridge/freezer). However, our caterer had no issues with making the catering area work for them.
Melody, the property owner/manager, was incredibly easy to work with. She was so patient throughout the process, quickly answering all my questions and concerns. She has so much décor and so many props and furniture available at the barn, along with her linen rentals, you really only need to show up with your food and beverage. She had lots of good ideas about how to set-up the barn so that it would maximize space for our guests.
We loved having access to the farmhouse for the wedding day. Although no one lodged there, it was a welcome place for me and my bridesmaids to finish getting ready, as well as a cool spot for our wedding party and us to rest after the ceremony and before photos. It was fun to look out onto the ceremony space before the ceremony and after and see all of our family and friends gathering for our special day.
The property is located a short distance from a major interstate, and just off a main highway, with close access to resources (grocery store, entertainment and cultural activities, department chain stores). This was helpful to our friends and families, all traveling in from out of town. Most of our guests made a weekend of the trip, visiting Helen, wineries, water activities, and all the other things the area has to offer. There are many rental cabins close-by and we also held a block of hotel rooms in Helen which was convenient for our guests.
If you are looking for a charming rustic location with wonderful amenities and breathtaking views, I highly recommend Mountain Laurel Farm for any wedding or social occasion!