Elizabeth Manor

Mr. & Mrs. Burton Beasley, III

2011-05-23T14:10:00.001-04:00

Elizabeth Manor would like to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Burton Beasley, III. They were united in the Great Hall of Elizabeth Manor Saturday May21, 2011. The ceremony began at 6:00 in the evening. The custom designed alter was decorated with beautiful arrangements chosen by the bride in colors of purples, lavenders, pinks, and shades of white accented by black draping.

The bride made her appearance dressed in a beautiful strapless white gown accented by delicate pink flowers. The groom and groomsmen and the brides attendants were dressed in black.

The bride and groom’s guests were entertained during a cocktail hour followed by the reception.

A special thanks to the vendors that played a very important role in this event. The food and cake were provided by Catering by Janet. The flowers were provided by Do A Little Floral.

Thank you Burton and Renee for allowing us to be a part of such a beautiful and special day and we wish you both the best of luck!

The Staff of Elizabeth Manor

Budgeting 101

2011-04-22T16:32:00.002-04:00

One of the most interesting things I have come across is the reaction I receive when I ask a potential client what their budget is. Most of the time there is dead silence. Then comes the famous words…”well we don’t have one”. What???? Are you kidding me? You do not have a budget? This is the first step in planning any event! That is like going to buy a house and telling the real estate agent...well I don’t have a budget. I can promise you the next question from the agent is have you been pre-qualified and for what amount. There is a huge difference between a $100,000.00 property and a $1,000,000.00 property. Without any indication as to what you can spend on a property the agent is not going to be able to help you efficiently.

I have had this same conversation with many vendors and they have all shared the same reaction with me based on their experiences. If you are the client and are planning an event, please keep in mind…without the proper information the vendor is NOT going to be able to assist you properly. There is nothing worse than a client telling me “we have no budget…the sky is the limit” and we begin discussing the cost of a “the sky is the limit” event and they realize they cannot afford it! They end up disappointed and embarrassed because they have put themselves in a very compromising situation.

Potential clients please know that we (the vendors) are professionals and you have to be willing to share certain information with us so we can help you accordingly. Without this information the consultation is fruitless. I know from my own personal experience that if I feel the client does not trust me enough to share their potential budget with me, I recommend they find another venue. I automatically begin to shut down if I hear these famous words.

I have had many clients come in and share with me their budgets right up front. With this vital information I am able to discuss with them what we as a venue can do for them. Most of the time, because of the fact they have been honest with me and felt they can trust me, I have offered more then what the particular package may include just due to the fact they are honest with me…. but most importantly they trust me as a professional. Most vendors are not in the habit of trying to squeeze as much money out of one client as possible. I know for a fact the vendors we associate with are trying to give our clients the best their budget will afford so that we will receive referrals from that client! Word of mouth and referrals are the BEST advertising!

So take it from me…all of you potential clients please set a budget and be willing to share that information with your vendors! If you don’t…you will be wasting your time! Until next time…take care!

Tamesha Holland & Chad Surratt Wedding

2010-10-07T10:01:00.003-04:00

Tamesha Schrane Holland & Chad Ellery Surratt joined in holy matrimony on Saturday August 21, 2010. Their wedding took place in the Great Hall of Elizabeth Manor at six o'clock in the evening. After the ceremony, family and friends were greeted with refreshments & light snacks on the Main Floor Gathering Area of Elizabeth Manor. A plated dinner followed in the Banquet Facility provided by Catering by Janet. DJ Duane Blue set the mood and provided music for the celebration.

The Staff and Owners of Elizabeth Manor want to wish Tamesha & Chad the very best in the new life together. May all their dreams and wishes be fulfilled. Congratulations!

Food for Thought

2010-09-15T13:19:00.003-04:00

Hello All,

Ok… so here is the situation. I am meeting with the bride and the mother of the bride along with the mother of the groom. So, can you guess where we are going on this adventure? I am standing in front of three ladies and all of them are heading in different directions. I will admit, it is a little unusual for the mother of the groom to be involved but in this situation the families are very close and the children have grown up together and now have decided to marry.

Each one of these ladies has a completely different idea of what is appropriate for this event. SO… as I stand there listening to these ladies strongly express their obvious different opinions, I am watching the face of the bride become less and less interested in this entire process. I have seen less pain on the face of a woman giving birth naturally. The mother of the bride made the one statement that makes my blood curdle "Well I am paying for the wedding so I want it this way". I have many brides tell me that have chosen to do things a certain way based on the fact the parents are paying for the wedding and if she goes against the grain, they may not pay for the wedding. In my personal opinion that is a very distasteful thing to say. So is the mother bribing the daughter or just trying every last thing she can to remain in control of her child until the wedding. Things should be given in love, not for a gain or obligation. It became so uncomfortable that I finally had to stop them from speaking for a moment. The conversation went as follows…

I looked at them all and told them "They all had wonderful ideas about the wedding. However, this day was about the bride and groom and no one else". Well the blood drained from the parents faces. Unfortunately, this happens quite often but it is the truth. Many parents try to relive their life through their children. I can understand this because often I try to encourage my nieces to do better and make the correct choices in life so they will not have to experience any negative repercussions from making the wrong choices. Despite the effort that is put forth, I do believe that people learn from mistakes and these mistakes help shape a person. Back to the subject at hand. I explained to these ladies the bride needs to be the one that is happy at the end of the day. I asked each of them to write down their ideas and share them with me. I also asked each of them to promise not to discuss the wedding until I had the opportunity to work on the event and meet with them again. After reviewing each ones ideas I began to work on a plan. I began to develop a road map for the event that would include ideas from each one based on proper etiquette and so forth.

I called the bride and we had a separate meeting about the wedding. I shared my ideas with her and there were a few minor things she wanted tweaked. She told me before she left how she appreciated the fact I had took control of the situation and became the mediator for them. I simply explained to her that was what I was supposed to do and I promised her we would get through this and the most important thing was that she be happy. At the next meeting I explained I had taken each ones ideas into consideration and this is what I came up with. I passed the itinerary to each of them and waited. Believe it or not there was very little resistance. Once again there was a small amount of discussion but the overall outcome is they agreed with what had been presented to them.

The moral of the story is “The bride was very happy”. Based on this experience I learned that sometime one has to be a mediator. The most important factor for a successful event is that the bride is happy with all of the decisions made. I completely understand how most mothers want what they may have not had for their own wedding, but with the changing of the times certain trends change. Ideas that may have been in vogue twenty years ago may not apply today. Compromises have to be made every day in life and in planning a wedding there will surely have to be compromise. Brides, be respectful and listen to your mother s advice and suggestions. Mothers listen to your daughter’s ideas for their perfect wedding and work together as a team. It will take a team effort to make this special day a complete success! Best of luck to all you brides during this wonderful and beautiful adventure.

Until next time!

Remember Your Gifts

2010-08-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

When planning your wedding celebration, remember to take into consideration the fact that you will receive many gifts from family & friends that will assist in offsetting the total cost of your wedding. Gifts can come in several forms: cash, checks or merchandise. Many of the gifts will come from the guests that confirm and attend your celebration. However, you must remember that, quite often, even those guests that have to regretfully decline attending your wedding will most likely forward some form of gift for the newly married couple. These gifts can quite often equal a value between 50% - 80% of your wedding celebration expense. While we never advocate "counting your chickens before they hatch", you will recoup some of your wedding celebration expenses. Do not overextend your budget, but also, do not try to cut costs. You only get married once and you want your celebration to me as memorable and satisfying as possible.

Food For Thought

2010-08-13T15:00:00.000-04:00

Don’t be left holding the bag…an “empty” one at that!

When selecting a venue for your wedding please make sure to ask the right questions and educate yourself on what services the venue will supply for your event and, most importantly, which ones they will not that will ultimately end up as additional charges for your event. If the venue provides an event director or coordinator, make sure you will have unlimited access to this person. Keep in mind that you will be working very closely with this person, so it is a must that your personalities do not clash. If a venue allows limited access to the director/coordinator, you may want to rethink your decision to use this venue. There are going to be many questions that you need answers to and many conversations you are going to have.

If the coordinator/director is hired outside of the venue, you need to make sure you have unlimited access to this person. You have to remember, this person is the professional and you will be depending on them for planning your event. The director/coordinator should be the one doing all of the “grunt work” for you such as finding the correct vendors (i.e.: a florist, caterer, photographer, etc).

Yes, there have been potential clients that have toured Elizabeth Manor and I suggested they find another venue based on the fact I could not see us working together in harmony. For whatever reason, I felt these particular clients and I would not be able to work closely without issue, and I would not compromise such an important day for any fee. I have not regretted that decision and still feel it was best for both the client and Elizabeth Manor.

Be wary of venues that only allow you to use certain vendors. In many cases these venues receive kick backs from their “preferred vendors”. So not only are they receiving their rental fee from you, but also usually a percentage of the money you are paying the vendors supplying other services and products for your event. I hear horror stories on a weekly bases from new clients who have put down their deposit (and lost it) because they have decided the “perfect venue” was no longer what it seemed. Once the money exchanged hands, phone calls stopped and communication was lost. For a first time bride especially, this is a very stressful and agonizing place to be. To feel abandoned during one of the most important times in their life.

There are many reputable venues in the area that are willing to go the extra mile for their clients! I strongly advise you to do your home work and educate yourself before making a final decision. It is your event, your money and you have the RIGHT to ask as many questions as necessary to make yourself comfortable with such an expensive investment.

Until next time….Dwayne

Food for Thought Educational Series

2010-08-06T15:28:00.000-04:00

Dwayne Johnson, the Director of Special Events for Elizabeth Manor, will begin a new series of postings entitled "Food For Thought". This series will encompass informative & educational ideas and practices for planning the perfect event. Watch for these postings to begin Friday, August 13, 2010.

Holiday Celebration

2010-08-05T09:56:00.000-04:00

The holiday season is just around the corner. Whether it be a family gathering or a business function, planning for a holiday celebration can be a daunting challenge. There are so many items to take into consideration such as: food, entertainment, decorations, invitations, etc. Let the staff at Elizabeth Manor remove much of the anxiety by organizing your celebration. Our professionals are very experienced in planning holiday celebrations like: New Years Eve, Halloween (for adults as well as children), Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah. We can even theme your wedding to match the holiday. Call us today to schedule you personal consultation and let our staff put the "celebration" back in to your holiday.

Elizabeth Manor Opens Outdoor Veranda

2010-07-13T09:51:00.000-04:00

Elizabeth Manor opened its new outdoor Veranda area in June 2010. It has already won accolades from many couples, allowing their guests to enjoy the great outdoors as a retreat and social area during their special event.

The Veranda was designed by Dwayne Johnson and completed by Mason Landscape. Dwayne wanted an area where guests could be outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather while still being close to the party. The Veranda is a covered raised area that includes six (6) ceiling fans to constantly move the air and maintain a comfort level for the guests. Being adjacent to the Courtyard, the Veranda offers seating for an outdoor wedding ceremony or additional seating with tables for social hour/social area during the reception.

Be sure to stop by and see this new addition to Elizabeth Manor and imagine the possibilities for your Special Event.

Stanley's Celebrate 40 Years of Marriage

2010-07-09T10:36:00.000-04:00

Richard and Patricia (Ann) Stanley were married on June 29, 1970. This chosen day was also Richard's 30th birthday as he was born on June 29, 1940.

On Friday, June 25th, their daughter Anne organized a surprise 40th Wedding Anniversary/70th Birthday celebration for her parents. Friends and family joined to offer their congratulations and enjoy all the festivities.

A Blue Grass Band (that the Stanely's were once part of) traveled all the way from Brunswick, Georgia to entertain the guests with lively music and light hearted fun. Great food, fantastic music and wonderful family/friends made this evening very special.

The Staff at Elizabeth Manor would like to wish Richard & Patricia 40 more years of wedded bliss & happiness. Congratulations to both of you on your love and dedication to each other.

Choosing the Right Hairstyle

2010-07-06T11:51:00.000-04:00

On your wedding day, hundreds of eyes will be on you, and thousands of photographs will memorialize your day forever. Your chosen bridal hairstyle can either complete the picture or detract from it. That is why it is so important to choose the perfect formal hairstyle well in advance of the big day so that your stylist can get it right and make any custom additions to your fabulous wedding style. Visit with your hair stylist in advance and let them try different styles that will enhanced your natural features and compliment the dress style you have chosen. Have your makeup artist present so that the two professionals can work together to create a complete look that combine to enhance your natural beauty.

(Posting compliments of POZA Salon. POZA has an array of trendy bridal hairstyles for 2010. Please visit their website http://www.pozasalon.com/index.php/site/features/bridal_hairstyles_2010/ for additional information)

Gaston County Democratic Women Hold Annual Fund Raiser at Elizabeth Manor

2010-06-14T13:04:00.000-04:00

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

2010-06-11T18:10:00.000-04:00

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"

2010-06-09T07:34:00.000-04:00

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

2010-06-04T12:20:00.000-04:00

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

2010-06-01T10:18:00.000-04:00

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.

Where do you want to get married? In a church, outdoors or at a wedding facility?
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:

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.
What additional service charges will be added?
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.

Building Dedication opens Elizabeth Manor

2010-05-26T21:26:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, March 6, 2010 we dedicated Elizabeth Manor to Ms. Elizabeth Brazell. Ms. Elizabeth originally operated a wedding dress alteration & banquet facility at our location before retiring in 2006. After our seeing all the building renovations & new services offered at Elizabeth Manor, Ms. Elizabeth decided to come out of retirement and join our team as Director of Weddings. With this culmination of the building dedication, we are now open for business and accepting bookings for any type of special event (i.e.: wedding, birthday, anniversary, vowel renewal, bridal & baby showers, rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, socials and even civil unions.

Stop in or call for your own personal tour and see how we provide services not offered by other facility providers.