THE LOCATION AND COUPLE
We couldn’t have asked for a more joyous occasion to celebrate our first wedding at The Parker Mill. Mallory and Justin were fun loving high school sweethearts who have been through a lot together in the years they have been a couple.
This tremendous new venue is just minutes from Sylva. Described as rustic-meets-elegant, the owners Alexis and Brock have thought of every detail to highlight not just the historic nature of The Parker Mill but to make the venue comfortable for every wedding party.
When they bought this abandoned 1930’s sawmill in Whittier in the summer of 2018, they were drawn to its oversized barn doors, gorgeous timber-frame ceilings and hardwood floors. Over the last two years they have renovated the entire space and much of the land accompanying it. The renovations are incredible and it’s even more incredible when you hear about how much of the work they have completed themselves. They are quite the team, where Alexis has a vision, Brock is able to put it into action.
Check out their website for the full history of The Parker Mill: https://www.theparkermill.com/venue/
The Parker Mill includes two beautiful spaces for getting ready. The upstairs is a comfortable and fun space for the guys while the downstairs is airy and bright for the bridal party.
With plenty of space to spread out while staying tucked away from one another Justin and Mallory were surrounded by their closest friends as they prepared for the moment where they would become husband and wife.
EVERYTHING IN ITS PLACE
It was wonderful to see familiar faces like, Julie Faulkenberry of Salon 1718, taking care of the bridal party’s make-up and Kristi from Stargazers Designs providing the most stunning floral arrangements.
The Parker Mill team also includes top-notch wedding planner Ashley Taylor of Taylor Wedding Company. Ashley has an eye for detail, a calm demeanor, and her impeccable planning ensured everything was in place for Justin and Mallory throughout the day.
It was a bright and beautiful early fall day and the bride shone equally bright. Mallory’s easy-going and joyful nature ensured that the time we spent making pictures of her and her bridal party was full of laughter and smiles.
THE CEREMONY
When the couple moved outside to the beautiful pavilion ceremony area, they were greeted by guests thrilled to be a part of their special occasion. Mallory came down the aisle as Justin took in his bride for the first time that day. In a meaningful and loving ceremony, Justin and Mallory exchanged vows.
THE MOUNTAIN TOP
As their guests enjoyed refreshments and the beautiful spaces within The Parker Mill, we took the opportunity to make portraits of the newlywed couple. We quickly found out the only thing that tops the new spaces Alexis and Brock have created at their venue are the gorgeous mountain views. The bumpy ride was worth it to reach the pinnacle of The Parker Mill!
CELEBRATING TOGETHER
With spaces for cocktails, formal dining, dancing and much more, The Parker Mill has a layout that can comfortably accommodate 200 guests indoors with additional room for 50 guests under the covered patio. Justin and Mallory were able to celebrate with their friends and family as they danced, ate, and laughed the night away. We know their day was perfect and so was our first experience at The Parker Mill!
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Norton! Cheers to a lifetime of happiness!
THE VENDORS
Venue: The Parker Mill
Planner: Avail Weddings/Taylor Wedding Co.
Catering: High Country Catering
Make-up: Julie Faulkenberry from Salon 1718
Hair: Jenna Caldwell
Florist: Stargazers Design
Cake: Farm to Cake Bakery