When it came to planning their destination wedding, Krista and Ian had a game plan: develop and combine unique details to create the experience of a lifetime for their guests.

A meeting with their wedding planner changed the course of this couple’s wedding destiny. “She sort of took us under her wing…she handled every last detail and didn’t miss a beat,” says the bride.

Located halfway between the couple’s hometowns, Cashiers, North Carolina gave these lovebirds the Blue Ridge Mountains setting they were after. Planned group activities for 135 guests included golf, zip lining and a welcome BBQ complete with a bluegrass band.

Come W-Day, the couple’s wedding was personalized from start-to-finish. “The ceremony was a mix of both of our religions – Jewish and Christian,” says Krista. “We built our ceremony…focused around the importance of family, friends and love.”

The reception was designed with guests in mind and was not only stunning, but practical. “A round, lobby-style bar kept the flow of the space open and interesting…there was no traditional drink line where guests were waiting for cocktails,” recalls the bride.

Without question, the flowers stole the show at this North Carolina bash. “The tables were overflowing with lush, colorful florals,” describes Krista. “The main table had a thick runner of flowers and fruits spanning the length of the entire table…it was mesmerizing.”

To complement the breathtaking décor, the couple also added unique touches like a guitar guests could sign as a guest book, charitable donations in lieu of favors, and an ice cream sundae and float bar. Creating an event which represented them as a couple was of the utmost importance to Krista and Ian.

“With Ian being in the entertainment industry and [my] experience in event coordinating, we knew that creating a genuine and unique experience for those we love most was paramount. Making memories is what life is all about and we wanted to leave a lasting impression and great memories with those we love.”

Vendors: Photographer: VUE Photography, Wedding Planner: Elizabeth Fletcher with I Do Events Atlanta, Ceremony/Reception Site: The Chattooga Club, Florist: Rooms in Bloom Atlanta, Stationery: Sage Sisters Press, Cake: Lydia’s Cakes, Ceremony Music: Allegro Music, Inc., Reception Band: U.S. Beat, Transportation: Stevens Transportation & Emma Bus Line, Videography: Rodinis Films, Event Rentals: Tents Unlimited, Lighting: AG Lighting, Wedding Party Accommodations: The Inn at Half Mile Farm, Hair: Tracy DeSimone of Heat Lounge Salon & Ian Hensley, Makeup: Kimberly Mack Beauty Studio, Gown Designer: Carolina Herrera, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Vera Wang, Bridesmaids’ Clothing Designer: WToo, Joanna August, Ivy & Aster (formerly Love Lane Collections) and Swoon Bridesmaids, Groosmens’ Clothing Designer: Vera Wang, Charitable Favor Donations: The Inspire Foundation

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Fall/Winter 2015 issue. You can order a copy here.