July 2024: From Best Friends to Forever

Jake and Emily’s love story began with the purest foundation: friendship. Meeting in middle school and growing closer in high school band, their bond only deepened as their shared group of friends evolved. Through cross-country road trips, backpacking adventures across eight European countries, and navigating life’s highs and lows, Jake and Emily remained steadfast best friends first and foremost. After years of friendship, a move to Colorado and a memorable hike to Mt. LeConte sparked a realization that there was something more between them—a love that had been quietly building all along.

Dreams of a Life Together

As best friends and now life partners, Jake and Emily share a vision of love, laughter, and travel. Recently, they accomplished a major milestone: buying their first home just three months before their wedding. Though juggling a new house and wedding planning wasn’t easy, it solidified their strength as a team. They now look forward to building a family, raising babies, and continuing to explore the world together, always grounded in their unshakable bond.

Choosing Nantahala

When it came time to plan their wedding, Nantahala was the perfect choice. They dreamed of a secluded, nature-filled venue where their closest friends, family, and beloved pug, Gracie, could gather and relax without distractions. The property’s on-site lodging and serene beauty immediately felt like home. “When I stumbled upon Nantahala online, I cried because I just knew this was the place for us,” Emily recalls. The venue’s warmth, paired with the incredible care and kindness of its hosts, Jody and Jess, sealed the deal.

A Celebration of Simplicity and Joy

Jake and Emily’s wedding embodied who they are as a couple: thoughtful, relaxed, and deeply connected. From a mashed potato bar during cocktail hour (a guest favorite!) to heartfelt DIY decorations using Nantahala’s extensive décor collection, every detail reflected their vision. They also prioritized moments of calm amidst the celebration, taking time to relax, laugh, and soak in the love of their family and friends.

Tips for Planning Your Dream Wedding

Emily’s advice to other couples is simple: “Be present. Get your planning done early, and once you arrive at the venue, let go of the stress. Hand over responsibilities to others and take time to enjoy your fiancé and loved ones.” She also recommends locking in key vendors, like caterers and bartenders, as early as possible and staying mindful of travel fees. Their favorite vendors included Brother’s at Willow Ranch for catering, whose mashed potato bar was a crowd-pleaser, and Little Big Events Planning Co., whose day-of coordination made everything run seamlessly.

Looking Forward

For Jake and Emily, the future is filled with love and adventure. Whether they’re raising a family, traveling the world, or simply enjoying quiet moments together in their new home, they remain grounded in the friendship that started it all. Their Nantahala wedding wasn’t just the start of their marriage—it was the culmination of a love story years in the making and a promise of everything still to come.