“We were one of the many couples who had our plans shifted due to COVID-19. Our original date was in October 2020, but due to multiple changes, my husband and I opted to downsize to a mini ceremony and family dinner. We planned to have a one year anniversary party to include the loved ones we couldn't during 2020. After so much stress in the original planning, we were overjoyed to find out that we were chosen as the couple to receive The Dottie's grand opening anniversary party. From the first phone call with Krista and Kingslea at The Dottie, I knew we had picked the right planning team for our belated reception! Even with it being a giveaway, I never once felt like we were a secondary client. Brides, you know it's a big risk to choose someone as your wedding planner, so let me reassure you, this is THE TEAM for you. Originally I thought could do it all myself, but I didn't know how much I needed a planner until I had a planner. Each step of the way, their team coordinated everything with our vendors so we could actually just be excited about the event. Our planner was attentive to special family dynamics and made our day-of event so much easier. I had full confidence that once I told her something, it would be handled with excellence. I can confidently say they are worth the investment! As for the venue, it is the best wedding venue I've seen. Having been in multiple weddings, including my own (before our anniversary party here), I know that the details matter. The culture of hospitality radiates from the structure of the venue itself to the attitude of the team members. I felt so welcomed and like they thought ahead about how to maximize our experience. Getting ready: The bride and groom suites are tailored for the needs of each group. For the bridal party they have a suite with: 1) lots of mirrors with natural daylight for making sure you feel 100% as you get ready; 2) a lounge with a mini kitchen (ex: perfect for a charcuterie station) for enjoying the down time; 3) a private bathroom that's just for the bride/bridal party including a shower. The suite was full of thoughtful details like an emergency sewing kit that saved us when we had a dress mishap 5 minutes before pictures. For the groom's suite they have a space with: 1) a lounge with large flatscreen TV for catching whichever big game is on during down time; 2) a mini kitchen for the groom's favorite snacks; 3) private bathroom (also with shower) just for the groom's party. There is an additional room where family can have their own space while getting ready or in down time between events. The big event: The main room is beautiful and a perfect blank canvas for your dream day! It holds up to 500 people and has very tall ceilings (over two stories tall). With our 125 guests, we felt very spaced out. The external walls have huge garage doors that can open for fresh air circulation (great for an event during any time, especially a hot GA summer day or a pandemic). The space is versatile and could easily be used for a ceremony and rearranged for the reception. The outdoor patio surrounding the space was great for pretty photos. We opted to have a live band which made it the ultimate fun party space with loved ones. All in all, I’d give 10/10 for this venue and their all star team. I will definitely look for ways to partner with them again in the future!”