If you have ever been a wedding guest, you know that every venue is different and so is every couple. There are so many unknowns when it comes to attending an event. You have to decide what shoes to wear, where you will park, how to get to the location, hotels, etc. We are here to clear some things up before you attend a wedding here at The Barn. Here are 7 tips you should know as a wedding guest at the barn.
1. Our Location Can Be Deceiving
We’ve had some hiccups with Google Maps and it often takes guests to a different location. We have tried relentlessly to change the address but we are just not able to at the moment. That being said, if you end up in a residential neighborhood, try using 112 Bamboo Lane Jacksonville, NC 28540 instead. And if you have a connection with Google, let us know.
If you are coming from US-17, you would take Western Blvd. towards Half Moon. You then take a right on Gum Branch Road and our entrance is about 2 miles down on the left. When you enter at that address, you follow that road until you see the Rustic Barn gate.
2. Parking Options
Parking can be a hassle at large weddings and you may have to park far away from the venue. Here at The Barn, we tried to accommodate all sizes of events by offering close parking.
We have a paved lot and an overflow lot that are only about 50 yards from the entrance of The Barn. We also offer specified handicapped spaces that are directly next to the building making everything else easily accessible.
3. Ceremony Locations
We let the bride and groom decide where on the property they want to have their ceremony. They can either choose our rolling grass lawns, an indoor ceremony, or the front of The Barn.
All of these locations will most likely involve walking in the grass. Walking in the grass is inevitable because most ceremonies here happen outdoors. We suggest comfortable shoes, such as a wedge or flats. As a wedding guest, heels are not ideal. They might sink into the ground and end up being removed by the end of the event.
4. Cash & Cost Bar
Depending on what the couple chooses, they can add the bar to their wedding package. They then will either have an open bar or a cash/cost bar. With an open bar, guests do not have to pay for drinks while attending the event.
A common misconception by guests is that we only accept cash. This is not the case and we are able to accept cash AND cards. With cash becoming less common, we made sure to accept credit/debit cards as well.
If the bride and groom do not specify which type of bar they will be having, we recommend bringing your card or cash just in case! We DO NOT allow any outside alcohol on the property so you have to purchase all drinks from the bar.
5. Patio Information
Our patio is about 2000 square feet with a great view of the pond and rolling grass. It is ideal for capturing that perfect Instagram moment! We offer a mobile bar for a cocktail hour and plenty of seating that includes outdoor couches and high top tables. We have a designated smoking area out on the patio as well.
6. Main Hall Information
Our main hall is 10,000 square feet surrounded by Cypress wood from top to bottom. There will be plenty of room to dance the night away! Our pride and joy is the large crystal chandelier that creates a balance between rustic and glamorous. We have a stationary full size bar inside that can be used as well.
8. When to Arrive
As a venue, we see how different weddings are run and what makes the ceremony go smoothly, therefore we see what works and what doesn’t. Ceremonies seem to run the smoothest when guests come early and take their seats.
We usually see guests arriving 15-30 minutes before the ceremony is supposed to take place. By coming early, you will have time to make your way to the venue in case your GPS takes you to the wrong address.
It also works out best if you come and immediately take your seats. This lets the coordinator see how many people have arrived and if they need to adjust their timeline.
We hope you now feel more prepared when coming to a wedding here at The Barn. All of these tips should help you navigate the event as a guest and make sure you are informed on all the little things. We have accounts on Facebook and Instagram.
ELJ Farms Facebook & Instagram
Rustic Barn Facebook & Instagram
Photo taken by Lace & Vine Weddings LLC.