I always envisioned myself walking down the aisle in a very southern-style chapel. I pictured wood paneling, big open windows, white pews, and rustic charm. I love Chantilly lace and antique beauty, and I wanted a venue with that same timeless feel. The winter wonderland theme fit the mold seamlessly with all its organic, woody elements, and I couldn’t wait to bring it all together.

Being that a majority of our guest list is local, we decided to keep our search within the Dallas area. We then narrowed the hunt down even more with our preference for a separate ceremony site and reception area on the same property. Flipping a single venue has become a more common trend in recent years, but we didn’t want our guests to have to endure the chilly January temperatures during the swap. I also loved the design opportunity of having two distinct spaces for everyone to experience.

Aside from the aesthetics, what set the venues we toured apart for us was their attentiveness to the wedding party on the big day. Not only is this a special day for us, but for our loved ones as well, and we wanted everyone to feel pampered. We looked for luxurious groom and bridal suites, day-of coordinators, trusted vendors, and clean-up crews to help wrap things up. We appreciated all the little details that helped ensure a stress-free day. In the end, we chose the venue that made us feel like family.

My old, white chapel dream was reimagined as a Texas-style country mansion set on 20 acres of gorgeous land. I was smitten by a tree-canopy gravel driveway, floor-to-ceiling chapel windows and a curtain-draped ceiling. It was actually only the second venue we visited—I learned early on in the wedding planning process that once you’ve found the one, you have to stop looking. I found the same to be true with my gown.

In the next blog, follow me as I say yes to the dress!