Styled Wedding at a Family Home Turned Stunning North Carolina Event Venue
By Leah Berry | Styled by Amy Plant-Perdue
European aesthetics and grandeur set the stage for an unforgettable celebration at Britton Manor in La Grange, North Carolina. This English-inspired estate, situated on 80 acres of lush gardens and picturesque landscapes, opened to the public as a premier event venue in 2023. The circa-1990 family home, which is owned by Stephen Hill, exudes old-world charm and sophistication, offering a stunning backdrop for weddings.
“Britton Manor isn’t just a venue, it was someone’s home, making [it] a desired space to come and retreat with family and friends while experiencing one of the most important days of one’s life,” says Britton Manor Executive Director and Lead Designer Kandis Harvey. “We don’t want guests to feel like they have to rush [through their wedding]; we want each couple to feel the magic and charm that this private estate has to offer.”
Versatile Event Spaces at Britton Manor
This styled showcase, designed by Heart of NC Weddings Editorial Shoot Creative Director Amy Plant-Perdue, highlights the manor’s striking architecture and sprawling grounds.
“The property is expansive, and there are so many unique spaces that lend themselves to a number of different uses,” Amy says. “There are multiple areas that could function for your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception … you can have a lot of fun with it, and your wedding can look completely different from anyone else’s.”
Bright Berry Wedding Design with Pops of Romantic Red
The color scheme, featuring dazzling berry and pink tones, complements the venue’s landscape and is reflected beautifully in the Knock Out rose bushes that dot the property. Lavish arrangements by David Zelaya of Dazel Florals command attention in this romantic setting and further enhance the lush design.
“I knew this was a color palette that would work well here,” Amy says. “The space, especially the Glasshouse and the open lawn, is neutral enough to allow for decor in almost any hue.” This dynamic scene was captured by Colby Chase and Whitney Chase, the husband-and-wife photography and videography team behind The Chase Collective.
Amy’s design philosophy centers on working with the venue’s natural aesthetic. “I never go against a venue’s looks,” she says. “… I like to lean into its vibe. Britton Manor is luxurious, maximalist and meticulously manicured in terms of the lawn and the landscaping. So, I designed an event that would go along with that … one that felt opulent and maybe a little bit over the top, while incorporating current wedding trends.”
Elegant Alfresco Ceremony at Britton Manor’s Garden
Amy utilized David’s Garden for an alfresco ceremony setup facing the pergola and organized a lavish reception featuring cascading florals and a late-summer menu crafted by Funky Fresh Catering inside the venue’s glass-enclosed greenhouse. Delicate china, linens and glassware from Best Tents & Events in neutral tones allowed the bold blooms to take center stage.
Beau Papiere also contributed to the polished sensibility. Owner and lead designer Terry Smedley provided a unique escort card display that was carefully mounted on one of the garden’s statues, creating an eye-catching focal point.
“Our goal was to create a cohesive look that would be striking, yet refined, and still reflect the timeless aesthetic our brand is known for,” Terry says. “The vibrant pink and red tones offered a chance to embrace current trends while ensuring that the stationery remained sophisticated and well- suited to the overall vision of the photo shoot. The invitation suite in dusty blue added a soft element in contrast to the bright colors, creating an overall harmonious feel.”
Beau Papiere’s bar signs encourage guests to sample cocktails by Brewmasters Mobile – a cherry gin and tonic and a Tom Collins, specifically – and incorporate illustrations plus a floral crest with elegant white ink on a pale blue background, echoing the look of the invitation suite.
On-Trend Lace from Lazaro
Of course, a wedding celebration is mostly defined by the people it honors. Edwin Barnes and I took on that role for this editorial, donning stylish looks fitting for the dashing affair.
Bernard’s Formalwear supplied a white tuxedo, and White Bridal Boutiques showcased two breathtaking dresses – a Lazaro gown with romantic, laser-cut lace and a matching cathedral veil, and a Stella York organza ballgown with chic, puffy sleeves fit for a princess.
“When I look at [the Lazaro], it screams Victorian meets modern to me,” says White Bridal owner Heather DiMasi. “It’s romantic, it’s timeless, it’s elegant. It’s also got a little diva thrown in there.”
Hair and makeup by Reign Beauty’s Marissa Davis was tailored to the enduring style of the event.
A sleek bun brings focus to the Lazaro gown’s high neckline (and, Marissa says, is ideal for the unpredictable weather of a fall or winter wedding), while a bold red lip that aligns with the color scheme offers a classic, yet dramatic, look perfect for any season.
A Berry Twist on a Champagne Tower
The day’s resplendent flair certainly set the bar high for my and Edwin’s own 2025 wedding. We might even borrow the Champagne tower concept – which overflowed with berry-infused sparkling rose, a delightful twist on the traditional bubbly – for ourselves.
Get the Scoop
Want even more drool-worthy wedding inspo? Stay in the know as we continue to share content from our newly released 2025 issue! Sign up for our e-newsletters to have inspiration, real weddings, upcoming events and more delivered to your inbox each week.
