Serre’s 70-acre grounds with breathtaking scenery, rustic meets modern barn that accommodates up to 200 guests, covered patio seating, custom-built farmhouse tables, luxurious décor, outdoor bar, fire pit, and wedding coordinator to help plan it all will make sure your loved ones are not only comfortable; they’ll feel like it’s their special day, too. The luxurious bridal suite, hiking trails, outdoor yoga, fishing, wine by the firepit, and day-of bridal party brunch, our amenities, and extra touches are going to make you feel on top of the world. (And on top of the mountain.)

Lavonia Crest has become one of the most popular destinations for a mountain outdoor wedding. We have simple and customized packages available to help make your dream wedding come true. When you book your wedding with us you will have complete access to the property all weekend. Choose one of many locations on the property to hold the ceremony and then feast your way to the pavilion for a reception you will never forget!

A fairytale setting, Smithmore Castle offers majestic architecture and breathtaking views. The venue's grand ballrooms and lush gardens provide an opulent backdrop, while the dedicated staff ensures a seamless and memorable wedding experience for couples seeking a regal celebration.

Come together at The Lodge, a multi-home property that includes the impressive Lodge House along with two adjoining, newer homes, Lodge Barn and Lodge Cottage. Located less than a mile from Mars Hill town center, The Lodge stretches over 14 acres of forest and rolling pasture. Enjoy our multiple locations and allow us to create the perfect experience for you!

We specialize in affordable Mountain River Weddings. Located in the heart of Southern Appalachia, USA Raft Adventure Resort has been host to many happy families and couples for decades. Now, our guests have the option of enjoying their special day, and a lifetime of memories, right here in the mountains of East Tennessee. Nestled deep inside the heart of the Southern Appalachian Highlands, USARAR's 7 acre property runs the banks alongside the Nolichucky River in Erwin, Tennessee. The wild and scenic Nolichucky River, along with the dedicated staff at USARAR, offers guests a truly unique, and one of kind experience, secluded in nature, surrounded by the romance of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Your adventure wedding awaits!

Special events at Springmaid Mountain Resort, a secluded 400-acre retreat located on the North Toe River, offer a peaceful, natural retreat to create a memorable occasion for you and your guests. Located just miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway, our resort provides a perfect backdrop for your wedding and more!

The Fields, on 21 rolling acres, awaits you at the end of Reems Creek Valley. With breathtaking views of the Blueridge Mountains. We are minutes from, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and downtown Asheville, NC.​ The Barn is a 3,200 square foot converted stable, a unique rustic barn with the elegance of 21 chandeliers, 2000 square foot Patio draped with Tuscan lights. The Barn is the perfect setting for a relaxing and comfortable celebration, whether it’s a rustic elegant wedding for 50 or 500 guest. The Lodge is a 5,000 square foot Conference Center. The Great room has 20 foot vaulted ceilings. The Boardroom will seat 14 people at a conference table. There are 2 additional dressing rooms upstairs. The largest of the dressing rooms is known as the Brides Room, providing a relaxing and calming feel, with large vaulted ceilings, and views of the mountains.

Creating the deepest joy for couples, families and guests on our 33 acre historical family farm. Only 12 minutes from downtown Asheville. Welcome up to 175 guests to our captivating mountain views. Half day, full day & weekend packages available with overnight stays in the modern 3 BR/ 3 bath farmhouse + camping options. The perfect setting for your "one of a kind" event. Event spaces are adaptable to a wide variety of styles: elegant to simple and everything in between!

Triple J Farm is a beautiful setting for all events. We have an indoor barn or outdoor wedding facility by the creek with benches. The barn has heat or can be cooled with indoor ceiling fans and AC units in dressing rooms. Next to the barn is an outdoor saloon/drink station with a large propane events grill as well as a pizza oven. Chairs, tables, linens, dishware, utensils, glasses, serving dishes are included in the price. There is a kitchen with 3 ovens, stove top, microwave, 3 refrigerators for use during your event. There are separate bride and groom dressing rooms as well as 2 bathrooms. The beautiful property has views of Roan Mountain and backs up to the state park. Bordered by a creek, a pond with a waterfall, large outdoor fire pit area with family fun area. There is a large parking area and lots of outdoor space. The farm would be perfect for your wedding ceremony/reception, family reunion, and birthday parties! Please come see us before booking any mountain/barn venue.

The historic Monte Vista Hotel is a key component to Black Mountain’s storied past. Originally home to the Cherokee people, this valley became an early pathway west for traders, explorers and people seeking a new life beyond the eastern mountains. The town of Black Mountain grew rapidly after the railroad was completed in the late 19th century, and this new “railroad town” needed more lodging. Lucien and Rosalie Phillips opened the Monte Vista in 1919, repurposing a former school building. In 1937, the current brick building was constructed, further cementing the Monte Vista Hotel as a central piece of Black Mountain’s civic and social life. The Annex, a separate structure located behind the original, was added in 1975. Though the hotel has since undergone complete renovations and new ownership, many of the original elements have been preserved, and the new decorative touches complement the look and feel of the original structure.

A Place Where Families and Community Become One. Weaver House has been carefully crafted for wedding ceremonies, musical events, private dinners, educational seminars, and unique alternatives to corporate meetings and retreats. The setting is welcoming and open, providing a beautiful backdrop to create lasting memories. The grounds feature private Japanese gardens, creating an elegant and tranquil space for your guests. Our team will seamlessly host your event with care. Our planning and coordination specialist will weave together the details, creating a one-of-a-kind experience. The Weaver House prides itself on being a leader in sustainable practices among Western North Carolina event spaces and businesses. Let us bring your vision to life.

At Something Blue Mountain Venue we strive to make everyone feel welcome and celebrated! Our mission is to make your wedding day feel as memorable and beautiful as your love and the Blue Ridge Mts. If you are looking for a totally private place to wed that has vast one-of-a kind views of the Pisgah National Forest ridgelines, over 100 named peaks, New Old World style Indoor Spaces, Intimate setting and owner that value your business then Something Blue Mountain Venue may just be for you. We specialize in Intimate Weddings tailored for Couples Only and up to 34 seated guests for a formal meal Indoors. Gorgeous Indoor Bridal Suite with private entrance, Gathering room, stone fireplace, large windows, covered patio. NEW Indoor spaces, TOTAL PRIVACY - 50 private acres with gated access. 8-minute drive off I-40 / exit 81 360* views. Large Solid Surface Open Patios - no stairs to climb. Ample parking space. Views of Clingman's Peak, Shortoff & Table Rock Mountain, Hawksbill Mountain & more

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Country Club of Asheville is one of the premier venues in Western North Carolina! We will do our best to accommodate every request, whether it is creating customized food and bar menus, allowing for room set up earlier than the typical two hours prior, and allowing you to use vendors of your choosing. Our goal is to exceed your expectations at every opportunity.

Nestled in the rolling foothills of Western North Carolina, this historic farm is located just 9.5 miles from downtown Asheville. We have honored the land and our community by restoring 3,000 feet of a French Broad River tributary, creating a program to support new farmers, and establishing a space for environmental education. Our focus here is on Conservation, Education, and YOUR Celebration. Envision yourself and your memories becoming a part of this place. Imagine quiet and peace during your outdoor ceremony, followed by laughter and music at night among the fireflies… Views of Mt. Pisgah and the Newfound Mountains frame the scene. Wildflowers fill the fields in summer, and surrounding mountains burst with maroon and orange hues in the fall. -Savor stunning 360-degree rolling pasture and mountain views -Enjoy the company of friends and family on the reception patio and deck -Refresh and relax in the beautifully updated farmhouse

Appalachian View provides stunning eastern and western views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the south side of Sugar Mountain. As natives to North Carolina and these mountains, Cathy and Dale Buchanan have enjoyed this area for years - a cabin, time with family and friends, hiking the Appalachian Trail... Here we have hosted weddings for special people in our lives. Consequently, we decided to build on these 75 acres a venue to be able to share this beautiful location with others. We think this is the quintessential place to start your lives together, and are very excited to be able host your wedding ceremony and precious memories.

At Olivette, every element of an unforgettable event is already here. You and your guests will be surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature: the rushing river, the birds, the breeze in the gently swaying trees; while at the same time enjoying the rustic comfort of our outdoor pavilion and fireplace, fire pit amphitheater, private island, and beautiful wedding circle. Your guest will enjoy the property as they cross the wide suspended bridge, enjoy a cocktail, and mingle. The natural and diverse scenery around Olivette provides perfect and varied locations for your event. Olivette is managed by Shay Brown Events Management Group and we are committed to making your event a low-stress affair. We are here to guide you seamlessly through the event planning experience, ensuring that your special day and making certain that your guests return home from your event with the memory of a magical event that will hold a place in their hearts for many years to come.

Catalpa Grove Events is a 64-acre family-owned farm and event venue located in beautiful North Carolina, just 20 minutes from downtown Asheville. We believe your event should be as unique as you are and our flexible spaces allow you to bring your vision to life against the beautiful backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Set amongst softly rolling hay fields, romantic glades, quiet forests, and mountains silhouetted in the distance, our venue is ideal for weddings, receptions, micro weddings, elopements, retreats, reunions, and more. Catalpa Grove Events is a venue for all and we are proud to provide a welcoming and inclusive space for joyful gatherings of all kinds.

Homewood, a special event venue in Asheville, NC, is an ideal destination for rehearsal dinners, weddings, receptions, and gatherings. Homewood is a beautifully restored 1920s stone manor located in Asheville's post-Victorian historic district of Montford. The elegant castle was originally built as a private home. The elegance of the 1920s luminesces from original wrought iron chandeliers and alabaster sconces, casting graceful lighting from the 20-foot ceilings of the Great Room to the original hardwood floors, cherry walls, and grand Appalachian stone fireplaces. Conveniently located within a mile of downtown Asheville, Homewood offers 200 free, designated parking spaces, and is located in a neighborhood setting. The Great Room seats 110 people for dinner, or up to 150 with cocktail seating, with space for dance floor and DJ or band. Homewood is fully handicap-accessible. The beautiful and lush surrounding grounds provide additional outdoor space, including our garden ceremony site.

Asheville's first craft brewery boasts two unique venues with polished, industrial chic vibes beckoning you to host your friends and family for an unforgettable event. For up to 200 guests, invite them to our Rooftop with gorgeous mountain views for your ceremony. Linger with your guests and enjoy the scenery during cocktail hour. Venture downstairs and enjoy your reception in our Event Center. For up to 100 guests, our Barrel Room is the perfect, intimate space for your ceremony and reception with live hanging greenery from skylights, a barrel stave bar and a front porch to enjoy drinks with friends.

Amid the storied streets of Asheville, where art and adventure intertwine, Zelda Dearest awaits—a haven where your most cherished moments come to life. Composed of three exquisitely restored Victorian homes saved from time's embrace, our hotel is more than a destination; it's a delightful escape inspired by the indomitable spirit of Zelda Fitzgerald. Here, every event becomes a vibrant tapestry woven with passion, creativity, and a touch of the unexpected. Tucked away from the city's hustle yet mere steps from its lively heartbeat, our venue offers a harmonious blend of seclusion and accessibility. Every event is a chapter in life's grand novel, deserving of its own flair and flourish. Our dedicated team is passionate about bringing your vision to life with an attentive touch and an eye for the extraordinary. From the first spark of an idea to the final, joyous farewell, we're here to ensure your celebration is nothing short of enchanting.

Wicked Weed's Funkatorium is the East Coast’s first sour beer dedicated taproom. Enjoy your large group event or intimate gathering in one of our onsite venues for your wedding, rehearsal dinner, or special event. We have the event space you are looking for from a large chic and industrial space to small intimate funky dining room. Each of our unique event venues include a bar area in the event space featuring an array of on-site beers, wine and liquor your guests can converse and sample a wide range of delicious drinks. The Funkatorium's Barrelhouse is an expansive area featuring stone flooring, high ceilings, bright lights, floral installations and stacks of wooden barrels. Cultura's dining room offers seating for 65, along with décor features of natural elements, including a large selection of greenery and living plants, edible mushrooms, herbs, and wooden foeder barrel booths paired with vintage touches in glassware and silverware.

Double Creek Ranch is an outdoor wedding venue located on a private farm 15 minutes East of Asheville, In a peaceful country setting surrounded by lush greenery and stunning mountain views. We offer Venue Only rental, planning services, and a selection of decor items. Ceremony cites include the creek side area shaded by tall sycamore trees, or facing the breathtaking sunset against the Blue Ridge Mountains. We have a fire pit and yard games available for your event and use of the house for the bridal parties to get ready before the wedding.

Nestled in a beautifully renovated barn, Mountain Shadow Events smoothly combines timeless farm charm with modern elegance. The venue's uniquely charming atmosphere is enhanced by inviting white shiplap walls-a pristine canvas for your dream wedding. Set against the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, natural beauty creates a captivating backdrop. With a 125 guest capacity, the venue ensures an intimate, cozy experience, fostering close-knit connections. Mountain Shadow Events exudes a warm, inviting and elegant vibe. Farm charm and modern sophistication merge seamlessly. Located at the Blue Ridge Mountains' base, the venue offers tranquility and scenic beauty-an ideal choice for couples seeking a stunning backdrop. Welcome to a place where rustic meets modern allure -a setting crafted for unforgettable moments!

The Emerald Woods is a beautiful historic venue in Western North Carolina hosting weddings, small personal retreats and private gatherings. Imagine getting married surrounded by forest on all sides, deer hidden in the woods and with the backdrop of a historic house that is hidden from view from the rest of the world. Your host, Lilly Bakken, purchased the property in August of 2020 and since then has renovated every room within the house and is now continuing to add to the landscaping with an abundance of flowering trees, hydrangea, dahlias and other perennials. Many outside seating areas have been added to the property, quiet little nooks for conversation and for guests to connect with each other.

The Villa is a spacious estate home that can be used to celebrate your big day. Its spacious lawn and gardens can host events for groups up to 75 people. Rental of the Villa for an event includes the use of its outdoor spaces, plus numerous photo locations on the 85-acre property. We also include lodging in the five-bedroom Villa for up to 12 people, ceremony and reception furnishings, and day-of services. (We are there to support you through every step of your day!) We also have additional lodgings on the property in our treehouse cabins that can be rented as lodging. We love the opportunity to host family groups who use the whole property. It sets a totally different tone for the weekend when you have the extra time and space to be together for more than just the ceremony. This is the kind of experience that we specialize in. Let’s plan a weekend that has been personalized for your and your closest friends and family that everyone will remember for years to come.

Located a half mile from the Biltmore Estate, just up the road from their South Slope Specialty Brewery in Asheville, NC, Hi-Wire Brewing has added The Event Space to their Big Top Production Brewery location. The Event Space is perfect for weddings, private events, corporate meetings, or a variety of gatherings. This large, industrial-feeling space features access to a beer garden, and is within walking distance to many hotels, restaurants, and historic Biltmore Village.

Welcome to Haiku. We aren’t your typical venue. Haiku is art… a feeling… a moment… that is unforgettable. Gather with your loved ones at the most memorable venue in Asheville. Allow our setting to be the foundation of your perfect wedding or event. We'll take care of the details with the grace of a perfect Haiku. Haiku is located minutes from Downtown Asheville in the beautiful Biltmore Village. Enter through the circle gate and leave the city behind. Our whimsical Zen Garden, stunning chapel, and ample indoor/outdoor spaces create the perfect setting for your wedding or special event, accommodating up to 150 guests. More than just a wedding venue, Haiku is a space for all types of life events. Birthdays, engagements, anniversaries, product launches, memorials — you name it!

The Biltmore Village Inn is a charming hilltop bed & breakfast offering views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and Swannanoa River Valley. We are the closest bed & breakfast to the historic Biltmore Estate and our property shares many special ties with the Estate beyond just our name. Located in a beautiful Queen Anne home built in 1892, our bed & breakfast was once the home of Samuel Reed, George Vanderbilt’s private attorney. We strive to preserve the unique history of the property while offering each guest the finest in modern luxuries. With its views, unbeatable location, and rich history, the Biltmore Village Inn is truly a hidden gem of Asheville and a the perfect setting for an elopement or intimate wedding.

We offer flexible indoor and outdoor spaces and a beautiful courtyard for whatever wedding activity you are planning. From wedding ceremonies to farewell brunches to receptions and wedding showers, we have spaces for you to make your gathering memorable.

Hickory Nut Gap has a rich legacy of food, family, and community on a fifth-generation family farm that has been in the same family since 1916. Today, HNGF helps cultivate a new Appalachian movement that combines the richness of our unique Appalachian terroir with the historic craft-maker culture of the region. We can host your group, big or small in one of our venue spots: The History Barn or Big Barn. Guests can enjoy the beauty of the Farm while making lasting memories with friends and family.

Sugar Hollow Retreat is your premier inclusive Tennessee Mountain wedding destination. We truly believe that the best weddings are ones where you can spend quality time with your family and friends, creating connections and memories along the way. At Sugar Hollow, we give you an entire mountain all to yourself for your wedding week or weekend. You and your guests will have a unique experience jam-packed with relaxation, hiking, patio games, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and more. We have have multi-day packages (weekdays: 3 day event / weekends: 4 day event), with semi-inclusive and all-inclusive options for up to 250 guests. Lodging for up to 68 (100 by Spring 2023) is included in all of our packages. To make your wedding planning experience easier, we also include a Wedding Manager in all weekend packages. To book a tour, please go to our website and hit "schedule your visit"

Nestled in a valley in western North Carolina with beautiful views of Bear Wallow Mountain, Twisty Maple offers a home away from home with a personal touch. With the owners combined experience of 15 years in weddings and events, we are here to help you customize your day to fit you!

Located in Banner Elk, North Carolina, The White Crow is a family-owned-and-operated venue that hosts weddings and other special events. Husband-and-wife owners Blake and Kelli Crymes offer years of hospitality industry experience to enhance the celebrations of each of their couples. At an elevation of 4,200 feet, The White Crow offers both majestic mountain views and privacy for your special day. This beautiful 37-acre property offers multiple scenic spaces to conduct your wedding celebrations, whether a small, intimate gathering or a large, gala event. Your wedding weekend can begin with you preparing and relaxing in one of the well-furnished polishing rooms. Up to 300 guests can enjoy our farm tables and cross back seating for your ceremony. Our built in bar is the perfect spot to gather for a toast. You and your loved ones won’t feel rushed with a full 48 hours of exclusive venue booking. The White Crow is the backdrop your wedding day deserves.

Celebrate love by planning your complete destination wedding in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Our East Tennessee Chapel offers the perfect harmony of casual elegance and rustic simplicity with panoramic vistas of the Nolichuckey River and surrounding mountains. For the happy couple and guests, our Bed & Breakfast experience features private amenity-filled cabins, delicious home cooked breakfasts, and a wonderful family-centered atmosphere all nestled in the natural beauty of East Tennessee and the historic town of Greeneville.

Spend the weekend or the week celebrating with your closest family and friends on the rivers edges of Wilson Creek gorge. Find yourself completely unplugged, sitting by the fire, eating s'mores, or tubing down the river or just spending quality time in an engaging and meaningful conversation with a loved one. Brown Mountain Beach Resort is a timeless combination of rugged beauty and elegance for those who desire a unique wedding experience. With riverfront cottages and yurts that sleep up to 80 guests on site, you can let the sunset over the gorge and the gentle sound of Wilson Creek provide the most captivating setting for your big day and truly let time and nature rejuvenate your mind body and spirit.

Our historic farm which was established in 1890 has since been transformed into a tranquil venue to create lasting memories. Our open-air pavilion with exposed beams and exquisite handmade chandeliers makes for great reception area. The wooden arch overlooking the Carolina mountains is just a short walk across the lawn creating the perfect ceremony location.

Our Lake Lure event hall can hold up to 85 people comfortably for weddings, business meetings, social events, as well as outdoor campouts. We offer a large property with a playground and spacious covered pavillion for outdoor events. The location is private, quiet, and off the main road, with an abundance of free parking.

Envision your special day at Paint Rock Farm: the ambiance of the golden light streaming from the setting sun, the gentle babble of the French Broad River, the backdrop of majestic mountains, the scent of wildflowers and fresh grass. Join with your love in the most unforgettable setting of natural, breath-taking beauty surrounded by those who mean the most. Curating a tranquil intimate space to formally declare your union is our priority. We want wedding days at the farm to be easy; to be filled with serene, quiet moments and deeply personal memories. We pride ourselves on not being a traditional wedding venue, offering instead a natural canvas without the fuss of a grand formal production.

Oak Meadows Farm & Venue is a family owned and operated wedding and event venue in East Tennessee. With access to over fifteen of our nearly 70 acres, you and up to 150 of your guests can enjoy the privacy of this beautiful property including the industrial event barn, pavilion, groom’s cabin, field parking, terraced ceremony seating, our spring-fed pond with a large dock, and rolling meadows.

House Boheme is an artist-designed destination for creatives, lovers and trailblazers. Nestled in the foothills of Appalachia, lies an oasis in the valley of mountains. With 22 acres of lush landscapes, House Boheme can accommodate intimate ceremonies as well as 150+ person outdoor weddings and celebrations. For more information on how we can help you design and plan your dream wedding, please visit our website.

The Farm is a relaxed, warm, gathering place for weddings, receptions, corporate team building, family celebrations and romantic getaways. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Farm is just outside of vibrant and artistic Asheville, NC. Originally a family farm, it has grown into a unique, flexible and award winning full-service events venue. The Event Center is a chameleon of sorts – equally suited for an elegant wedding as it is for a southern BBQ. Come saunter along the drive, rock on the porch and enjoy the peace and beauty of our farm as the sun sets behind the mountains. Afterwards, you’ll understand why we call The Farm – A Gathering Place.

If you are looking for a space to host a modern wedding and add your own unique flair, The Warehouse is the ideal venue. Our “blank canvas” interiors can be transformed into a space that completely reflects your personality and the industrial details are oh-so on trend. The elegant, understated beauty of the space allows you to dress it up as little or as much as you like.

The Mast Farm Inn is the perfect destination for your dream wedding. Our historic cabins, farmhouse and barn serve as a beautiful and unique backdrop for your big day. With six acres of river front with a mountain view property, we will find your perfect setting. Whether partying with a hundred guests or an intimate affair for two, we will always offer you our best and customize to suit your love.

Nestled in Boone, North Carolina, the Inn at Crestwood offers a wedding venue amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains. With its rustic charm and modern elegance, it provides a picturesque setting for couples seeking a romantic celebration. Say "I do" against the backdrop of mountain views, followed by a reception in one of the Inn's charming event spaces. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand affair, you'll find a wedding day filled with love, beauty, and cherished memories against the backdrop of mountain views.

The Inn, originally named Engadine by its builder, Civil War Captain John Keais Hoyt, is an 1885 Queen Anne-style Victorian home. Engadine is on the National Register of Historic Places and has been restored and decorated to maintain its Victorian character and charm. It was converted to an inn in 1994 and has operated as one ever since.

Boasting breathtaking panoramic mountain views, The Laurel Room at High Vista offers the perfect setting for your indoor or outdoor wedding, bridal or baby shower, corporate meeting or retreat, or any other special event! From events big to small, we are happy to help! Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of Mills River, North Carolina, The Laurel Room at High Vista is conveniently located between Asheville and Hendersonville - minutes from the Asheville Regional Airport, I-26 and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Chetola Resort is a cozy venue tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains. At our Haven of Rest, we have a number of venue spaces for any kind of occasion. Not only can we help you host the event of your dreams, but we have plenty of lodging accommodations on site for you and your guests.

Welcome to Serenity Ridge, where love finds its home amidst the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. Our Wedding & Events Venue, set for up to 125 guests, offers a place where your love story unfolds naturally. Imagine exchanging vows in our lush gardens, with your nearest and dearest witnessing your promises. After, savor the moment with cocktails and sunset mountain views. As night falls, step into our Event Pavilion, aglow with a chandelier, ready to host your unique love story. Love is also in the details. Our Chef crafts a tailored menu, making each bite a memory. Stay the weekend with us in our on-site accommodations for up to 36 guests, from charming cabins to Yurt to our Hilltop House. Our property invites you to explore love in every corner. Unwind in private hot tubs, gather around the Fire Pavilion, or find quiet moments under pergolas. At Serenity Ridge, we're here to create a genuine and heartfelt setting for your love story, a place where your love shines brightest.