Planning for a wedding in Auburn, Alabama? After checking out destination venues as well as locations in Atlanta, we decided to use the best of bridal resources right here in Auburn for my daughter's wedding on August 29th. We discovered some wonderful vendors when we attended Auburn's BRIDAL EXPO last January, which included where to host the event, where to buy a dress, a harpist and a caterer, plus tons of inspiration for details. 

We couldn't have been more pleased with the event, which was elegant with personally tailored undertones. It took place just before sunset, with a light, brief, misty rain, a cooling breeze, and two rainbows behind the gathered guests.

Here is an illustrated list of highly recommended resources for a beautiful AUBURN WEDDING or any other special event that might have you celebrating in Auburn, AL! 

Venue by FOUNTAINVIEW MANSION, a luxurious and elegant location on 18 acres in Auburn.  The mansion itself is situated on the summit of one of the highest vantage points in the area, providing stunning, panoramic views of the countryside, in addition to the beautiful gardens, fountains, and old-world interior. There are wonderful rooms to use for dining, a great kitchen staff, serving from the caterer of your choice. They also offer beautiful guest accommodations. 

Dress by AUBURN BRIDAL & TUX which opened this past year. Owner, Sara Buck has been in the bridal business for 15+ years and was the previous owner of a bridal shop in Montgomery. We loved her special care of the bride, and her expert eye for matching the perfect style with the particular imaginings of the bride. Lois Taylor, a part-time assistant at the bridal shop and also a fellow REALTOR colleague, provided us with wonderful assistance, right up to the last minute!   

Catering by CHRISTINE'S GOURMET. Everyone raved about the delicious & artistically presented buffet by Christine Healey, one of Auburn's top caterers. The setup was well-designed and didn't keep anyone waiting, although you wouldn't mind at all in the elegant dining room, which also had plush seating arrangements. There were plenty of set tables, both indoors & out on the balcony & patios, and it was easy to mingle. 

Cake by SONSHINE CAKES. Local resident & owner, Robin Fowler did a superb job. We initially met her at her home, where she had a customized "cake kitchen" added on. After sampling different cakes, we (the bride & groom & myself), looked through pages of gorgeous cakes she'd made, gathering inspiration & customizing the selection, then were given a tour of the wonderful kitchen. The cake was truly amazing!

Flowers by BOUQUETS, owned & operated by local resident, Cathy Wayman. Our initial meeting was at her breakfast room table, where you immediately felt like you were in the page of a magazine. Her artistry & inspirational designs are evident throughout her home and gardens. We were very impressed with the organization & crew in her shop/studio, which was a makeover of a garage.  Having her on board was a huge blessing, as she continued to adjust to our budget and needs with the best of care, calm manner & confidence.  Contact Cathy at 334.887.5145.

Ring Bearer Pillow, handcrafted by Rebecca Kenney (sister of the bride & mother of ring-bearer). A native & resident of California, her artistic vision, felted & graphic art designs are sewfull and sweet. For personalized gifts that turn thoughtfullness into the sweetest treasures, you can contact by email.

 [Above photo by father-of-the-bride, JIM HAWKS ]

Photography by Josh Moates of Kim Box Photography, Josh and his partner, Kim, serve primarily central Alabama, including Prattville, Montgomery,Troy,and Birmingham. They are widely sought after for their photojournalistic wedding photography and are available for travel and commercial work. The phenomenal job he did on the wedding day, completely non-intrusive & keeping his subjects relaxed & bathed in natural lighting, will give the newlyweds a stunning story to remember, when his photos arrive later this month. Contact Josh at 334.491.0409.

Hair by DIMENSIONS STUDIO did a fantastic job of hairstyling for the bride & bridesmaids. The girls had a table of mimosas, chocolate-dipped strawberries & mini quiches to sustain them for the 2 hours that they spent there. I loved how Lyndsey & Joy listened to the vision of the bride & did a superb job. Everyone was thrilled with their work, and it was also a lot of fun (and the price was nice, too!) Contact Lyndsey or Joy at 334.821.6798. 

Music for ceremony by harpist, MELANEY JONES. A comprehensive list of her repetoires, along with samples of her beautiful music, can be found on her website. Or contact Melaney at 334.502.7224.

DeeJay was HEATH TRUITT, friend of the bride & groom, and co-owner of local restaurant, The Independent.

Nails by NAIL LOVE at 300 N Dean Road in Auburn. The mother of the groom hosted a pedicure party here for the bride & bridesmaids on Thursday evening, complete with wine & a buffet table of goodies. It was a lot of fun! For your own private party, contact Kim at 334-826-3511.

Doves by JIM ARMSTRONG. The white doves, 'representing promise to those whose hearts are open to the miracle of love,' were trained, white homing pigeons. When released, they circled around several times before returning to their home in Auburn. Contact Jim at 334.821.5894

 [Above photo by father-of-the-bride, JIM HAWKS ]

Bridal Party gifts by THE VILLAGER art and gifts in Auburn. See related post: Auburn Alabama Area Real Estate Living: Auburn Alabama Shopping - THE VILLAGER, art & gifts

Related post on BRIDAL EXPO:2009 BRIDAL EXPO in Auburn, AL

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Active in Alabama, Mara Hawks, REALTOR with FIRST REALTY of Auburn, AL, #1 Real Estate Team in Lee County, THE LEADER in professional real estate services in Auburn, Opelika & Lee County for over 3 decades! Committed to INTEGRITY, KNOWLEDGE & SERVICE.

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