In an earlier installment of the blog series, ‘Say I Do to Reynolds,’ we met Mollie Dunn and Jerry Applegate as they were preparing for their May nuptials at The Sandy Creek Barn. Now, happily married and home from their honeymoon, we caught up with the new Mrs. Mollie Applegate as she reflects on an unforgettable day.
First, congratulations on getting married! Now that the special day has happened and you have a chance to reflect, can you share some of your favorite moments of your wedding?
It’s so difficult to choose a favorite moment when it comes to our wedding because we had such an amazing experience all-around! One favorite part was when my ladies and I got ready at my mom and stepdad’s house in the Reynolds Lake Oconee community. We relaxed, sipped mimosas, and had our hair and makeup done by a wonderful crew (Renee Locher Makeup and Hair). Another favorite moment was our first look. Jerry and I did our first look at the boathouse [located next to The Barn] away from everyone and we were able to share a special moment that we’ll treasure forever.
Following your ceremony, I’m sure you were looking forward to sharing the joy of the day with your family and friends. How much fun did everyone have at your reception?
Our reception was a blast. The barn is beautiful without any added embellishments, but then with flowers and string lights hanging from the beams, it was really such a special space for our celebration. Our band had everyone dancing the entire night (Nationwide Coverage out of Birmingham), and our guests were able to play cornhole and mingle with each other while overlooking the water on the back porch. It was a beautiful summer evening.
When we spoke before, you mentioned that you were really looking forward to the whole experience of the weekend at Reynolds Lake Oconee. What activities were you and your family and friends able to enjoy?
The weekend did not disappoint! Jerry and his groomsmen enjoyed a round of golf at The National and everyone commented on how great the conditions of the course were. We wanted our guests who have never visited Reynolds before to experience the lake, so we held our rehearsal dinner at The Linger Longer Pavilion. It was the perfect setting to “kickoff” the weekend with all of our friends and family that traveled to be with us. I also loved that Jerry and his groomsmen got to do some clay shooting at The Sandy Creek Sporting Grounds the morning of our wedding day.
Are you pleased with your decision to have your wedding at Reynolds? If so, why?
We couldn’t imagine having our wedding anywhere other than The Sandy Creek Barn. Aside from the venue being the perfect fit for Jerry and I, having our wedding at Reynolds offered our guests a lot of convenience with the same beautiful location for both the ceremony and reception. Many told us afterward, it was like a destination wedding without the expense.
Lastly, since you have now gone through the experience, what advice would you give to another bride planning their wedding?
It may sound cliché, but try to be in the moment. I truly understand why people told me that over and over because the day - and weekend - seemed to go by in the blink of an eye!
'Say I Do to Reynolds' is a blog series dedicated to what Reynolds has to offer a couple searching for the perfect place to host their wedding. Find the series here:
Say "I Do" to Reynolds: A Happy DaySay "I Do" to Reynolds: A Happy Day
Say “I Do” to Reynolds: It Starts with a YesSay “I Do” to Reynolds: It Starts with a Yes
Say “I Do” to Reynolds: A Happy CoupleSay “I Do” to Reynolds: A Happy Couple
Say "I Do" to Reynolds: Meet Reynolds Lake OconeeSay "I Do" to Reynolds: Meet Reynolds Lake Oconee
