Gaston County Democratic Women Hold Annual Fund Raiser at Elizabeth Manor

The Gaston County Democratic Women held their 50th Anniversary fund raiser dinner at Elizabeth Manor on Friday, June 11, 2010. This annual event is promoted as the Katie Mae Oates Memorial Dinner. Katie Mae Oates was one of the veteran volunteers who didt't take "no" for an answer.

Secretary of State Elaine Marshall, the first female Secretary of State for North Carolina who is now seeking nomination for the Democratic U.S. Senate seat, was one of the honored guests in attendance. Marshall was joined other key Democratic Women such as Annette Carter, Beth Wood, Jennie Stultz and Gwynn Swinson to host a discussion panel on women in politics.

For a full review of the nights activities, follow this link to the article in the Gaston Gazette: http://www.gastongazette.com/news/women-48182-politics-state.html.

Determining Your Venue Budget

Determining a realistic budget for your venue can sometimes be a daunting and challenging task. There are so many items to be included with the venue itself, that quite often items are missed or overlooked. Some of the hidden costs to your venue include: tables, chairs, linens, dishes, glasses & stemware, flatware, flowers, hors d'oeuvres and servers (just to mention a few).

To assist you in establishing a fair and attainable budget, the staff at Elizabeth Manor suggests the following guide: $75 - $125 per guest for the average wedding. This range of pricing comprises 90% of the weddings that utilize buffet style dinners on the low end to plated basics on the higher side. If you desire more elegant meals (prime rib or filet mignon) or elaborate decor, you should budget between $150-$200 per guest. Keep in mind, this budget if for your venue & dinner only. Additional money will need to be budgeted for your wedding gown, tuxedos, ceremony flowers, photographer, musicians or DJ and ceremony officiant.

Elizabeth Manor packages a vast majority of the hidden costs into a single fee. Our pricing includes the Venue, (which includes the Ceremony Hall, Social Hour space & Banquet Facility), tables, chairs, linens, silk arrangements for the ceremony hall & banquet tables, china, glasses, stemware & flatware. There are no "hidden charges". We offer a list of preferred caterers whose per guest price includes your hors d'oeuvers, main meal and service staff. We strive to make budgeting for your spectacular wedding as smooth as possible.

Call today to schedule your personalized tour and private session with one of our Event Specialists.

Elizabeth Manor Opens "Courtyard"

Elizabeth Manor opened its newly constructed Courtyard in June 2010. The Courtyard is landscaped with grass & pavers to allow for small outdoor wedding ceremonies as well as gathering of guests during special events. Our custom water feature adds elegance & provides a naturally tranquil setting.

Final preparations are underway to complete the Veranda, which is directly adjacent to the Courtyard. The Veranda will offer outdoor seating for up to 80 guests under a protected canopy and is the perfect accoutrement for any event. The Veranda is scheduled to be completed by Mid-June 2010. Watch for more details to be released soon.

David & Robyn Ramsey Exchange Vows

David & Robyn Ramsey exchanged wedding vows on Saturday, May 29, 2010 at Stowe Botanical Gardens. The entire wedding then proceeded to Elizabeth Manor for a Social Hour & Dinner Banquet. Guests enjoyed the sophisticated decor of the Main Floor, with it's antiques and comfortable seating. Dinner was served in the lower level Banquet Facility and guests were invited to take advantage of the Outdoor Courtyard with it's custom designed water feature.

The Management & Staff of Elizabeth Manor extend our warmest wishes to David & Robyn for a beautiful start to their new life together. May they enjoy many years of happiness & prosperity together.

Selecting Your Wedding Venue

If you are engaged, or soon to be engaged, one of the most important steps in getting your wedding plans started is to select your venue.

1. Where do you want to get married? In a church, outdoors or at a wedding facility?
2. Where would you like your reception to be held? At a banquet facility, outdoors or at some other facility?

Selecting your venues is key to getting your wedding plans started. Many venues reserve dates 8-24 months in advance. Securing your venue as soon as possible protects against any price increases and guarantees the date you select will be available for your wedding. It also allows you to begin making sure your budget is achievable and allows you to make any necessary adjustments.

Ask many questions of the venue management:

1. What is included in the price? (i.e.: tables, chairs, linens, china, stemware, flatware, floral arrangements, wait staff, cake cutting, coffee service, etc). You can never ask too many questions.
2. What additional service charges will be added?
3. Is liquor provided or can you provide your own liquor?

Now your can begin to add up all the associated costs and compare each venue on it's merits and value. Be sure to consider all costs before making your decision.

Your wedding day is one of the most important events you will experience in your life. Choosing the right venue will make it an enjoyable and pleasant start to your new life.