Whew, it’s been hot! And of course, that has us thinking about the beautiful fall weddings that will be taking place in just a few months at Oakhaven. Even after peak leaf season, our premier Piedmont wedding venue still provides incredible background beauty with golden fields, blue skies, and our majestic oak tree.
The love story
Sheree Southern and Mark Jenkins have some wonderful history from childhood. They rode the same bus when all the county’s students were transported together. “He was the boy on the bus with cows,” recalls Sheree, “and I always thought that was pretty neat.” The two feel like they’ve always known one another and have always been in each other’s lives. Growing up, the slightly older Mark was even friends with Sheree’s cousins.
Golden light, late fall wedding ceremony splendor
Sheree and Mark married in the soft, late afternoon sunlight under the signature oak tree on November 23, 2024. Mother Nature honored the occasion with mild temperatures to keep everyone comfortable during the ceremony. Both fell in love with Oakhaven’s farm-like atmosphere and breathtaking scenery.
Says Sheree, “The old oak tree where we had the ceremony and the fall colors were absolutely beautiful. There was a windstorm earlier, and we weren’t uncertain how many leaves would be left on the trees. But as you can see from the photos, it was gorgeous.”
“Our ceremony was an absolute dream, from the old oak tree and the pews to that beautiful sky! We know with our whole hearts who painted it for us that special day.”
The wedding party made their processional through Oakhaven’s “outside doorway” still graced with vines from the summer. The aisle was lined with lanterns on wrought iron hangers. The couple also used Oakhaven’s wooden cross with simple draping in front of the oak.
Sheree walked down the grass aisle accompanied by her son dressed in his military service uniform. “We flew him in from Texas where he’s stationed with the Air Force. Since my father uses a walker, my son had the honor of giving me away,” reminisces the bride.
But before the ceremony, there were the details of getting ready in Oakhaven’s English Manor. From PJ time to finishing looks, the Manor provided spacious accommodations and lots of natural light (makeup artists love the space). Meanwhile, Mark and his men relaxed in the next-door Groom’s Lounge.
Crafted with love – decor with precious memories
Shree and Mark’s wedding incorporated an incredible number of personal touches and details without “bogging down” their decor. Each aspect reflected the couple’s tastes, vision, and homage to family.
Our November bride designed a beautifully simple white rose bouquet with baby’s breath that was also reflected in the bridesmaids’ florals and the groom’s boutonniere. Roses and baby’s breath were also part of the cake decor and guestbook table.
Whiskey barrels with lanterns with a touch of florals welcomed Sheree and Mark’s guests. By keeping it simple, Sheree was able to successfully DIY her floral decor.
The couple streamlined things to let Oakhaven’s countryside elegant barn shine. The ceiling was adorned with the venue’s signature draping, and the couple used a neon sign proclaiming “The Jenkins” as part of the greenery selfie wall. And along with a sweet and petite wedding cake, the couple also gave their guests a sugar fix with doughnuts.
But perhaps the most touching personal detail was Sheree’s handkerchief. Given by her “Maw Maw” it included a loving sentiment, and photos of cherished loved ones were pinned to it.
After the wedding feast and a night of dancing, Sheree and Mark departed Oakhaven with a sparkler sendoff from family and friends.
The vendors who helped make the wedding memories
The couple used Oakhaven’s Wedding Manager Jeanette Wagoner, aka The Wedding Day Lady, as their coordinator. Since Oakhaven’s requires couples to use a professional day-of wedding coordinator, why not hire someone who knows the property so intimately – not to mention the vendors who frequently work at Oakhaven. And Sheree and Mark took advantage of Oakhaven’s amazing Decor Room.
Here are the other vendors that made Sheree and Mark’s wedding dreams come true. Officiant: Doug Clark; Photographer: Natalea Kelly Photo; Catering: Holly Tate Fine Catering; Bar: Johnny’s Bartending Service; Bakery: Sam’s Club; Entertainment: Steven Edmonds of DJ Soopa.
Let this beautiful late fall NC wedding at Oakhaven inspire your own plans. Whatever the season, you’ll find a gorgeous venue and a welcoming staff ready to make your dreams come true. Contact us and schedule your tour today.
About the Author: Patience Ergish
