Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Eat, Drink, and Be Married!...in Abilene!

Each week, Torey (our exec director) writes a "Chamber Connection" column for the Abilene Reflector-Chronicle.  This goes in the opinion section of Wednesday's paper, and will be posted on the blog every Wednesday as well.  This column also inspired the name of our blog. enjoy!

This coming Saturday, I get to see one of my dear friends Sarah tie the knot in Kansas City.  She and I have shared many a workday together both in high school and when we were in college working at a doctor’s office, and I’m so excited to see her marry the man of her dreams.  For years, I’ve loved the idea of weddings, and since my emphasis in college study was event planning, wedding planning became not only a hobby, but a career passion. Since my senior year in high school, I’ve even helped my uncle with The Big 94.5 Country Bridal Fair.  Coming to Abilene as the Chamber Director, I didn’t think wedding planning would be involved in my position, but boy was I glad to be proven wrong.

Abilene is an absolute “diamond in the rough” when it comes to weddings.  Being at the same office as the CVB, we get many calls about renting the Abilene Civic Center, many of which are for wedding rehearsals, receptions, and the wedding itself.  That is just one of many venues in Abilene that can be used for weddings.  Couples can say “I Do” under the gazebo at the Eisenhower Park Rose Garden, in front of the scenic Seelye Mansion, at the Great Plains Theatre, or even aboard the Abilene Smoky Valley Railroad.

After the vows have been said, and the rings are on, newlyweds can celebrate with a reception at the Abilene Civic Center, St. Andrew’s Parish Hall, Sterl Hall, or many others as well.  They can have their meal catered by Applemint Catering & Events, West’s Plaza Country Mart, Mr. K’s Farmhouse, or more, as well as the cake they cut into made by Amanda’s Bakery and Bistro, plus other options.   

There are some other things involved with wedding planning that I haven’t mentioned.  For the dress (as well as other wedding attire for the whole wedding party), which for most brides is the most exciting part of the planning process, there is Abilene Bridal & Formalwear to find that perfect dress.  You can register for gifts at Cypress Bridge, and get your photos taken by Keller Photography & Design.  Many salons can do your hair, nails, and makeup, and even Rivendell Bookstore can help you with the planning process before it all starts.

See what I mean about being a diamond in the rough?  There are so many great opportunities to have a wedding here in Abilene.  With wedding season just starting, I’m looking forward to seeing pictures of people taking advantage of getting married in this wonderful town.  PS – Congratulations to Sarah and Ben!


You can always contact the Chamber at 785-263-1770, or at chamber@abileneks.net.  

A wedding at the Seelye Mansion with photography
by Keller Photography & Design 


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