Given the potential stress of wedding planning, many couples opt for an easier way to get married. We talked with Jackie Fogarty, an expert wedding planner, to learn more about all-inclusive weddings, The Venues at Langtree, and insight from her experience planning weddings in North Carolina.

What are all-inclusive weddings?

All-inclusive weddings simplify the planning process because you can choose a basic wedding package at a venue and pay a flat per-person rate, often saving you money. This option is attractive to couples who may not have the time to invest in planning a major event or may not be focused on the details. All-inclusive venues often partner with specific vendors familiar with their event planning process and location. This saves the work of interviewing potential vendors, diving into the details for each aspect of the event, and paying multiple bills. The couple gets to choose how involved they want to be in the planning process, which is convenient.

Is The Venues at Langtree an all-inclusive wedding venue?

Langtree is the best of both worlds, as you can make it as inclusive as you want it to be. While you get all these luxury services, you can customize them and be creative if you want to. The Venues at Langtree provide a suggested vendor list, and you choose how to create the wedding of your dreams.

What exactly does Langtree simplify?

The Venues at Langtree offer tables and chairs for free because they come with the venue (substantial cost savings). Speaking of chairs, if you want to enjoy the variety of spaces on the property, the venue offers two sets of chairs, so moving them from the ceremony to the reception is not necessary. You won’t need to research and interview caterers because the venues offer exclusive catering through Bouk Catering, which is all done for you with excellence. If you’re looking for a luxury bridal suite, you’ll be impressed by the glam and charming character of the Mott House, where you can get ready for the big day. The Mott House also has a separate space for grooms to gather on the wedding day. The Mott House is included in the cost of the venue and saves couples from paying for hotel rooms and estates to get ready for the day. The Langtree Trolly is practical and unique, serving as guest transportation and a prop for unforgettable photos. The venue offers the trolly at half the cost of any other trolly and a quarter of the price of a party bus. Overall, I’d estimate you’re cutting the planning work by a third by booking at The Venues at Langtree.  

How would you advise brides and grooms looking for the perfect wedding package?

Honestly, I would talk with them about making the process simple yet elegant and custom and finding a venue to match. In my experience, it is rare to find a location like Langtree that provides many venues on a single estate at an excellent price. Additionally, guests can enjoy Lake Norman, Charlotte, and the Davidson areas during their stay. Hotels are nearby, and you find the convenience of being near the city on a wide-open property in a beautiful location.

How do you know if a venue is high-end or luxury?

I would look at the price for the value, the customer service, and the stories of couples who chose that venue for their wedding. I think Langtree is a high-end luxury venue, and I like that you can seat 300 people easily. It is well priced because of the all-inclusive add-ins, so you get a fantastic value and a luxury experience for your guests. Also, when you book at Langtree, you work a single contact person saving on emails, phone calls, and stress. The Venues also offers a rain plan where you don’t need to rent a tent because you have access to all the venues on the estate and can move your guest into an indoor space.

Finally, what other aspects of wedding planning should couples consider when choosing a wedding venue?

Another detail couples may not consider is that The Venues at Langtree provides the property for a full day instead of a few hours like other event venues, simplifying setup and eliminating the need to rush to different locations. Everything is on a single property. At Langtree, couples receive all the positives of an all-inclusive venue with the guidance of a vetted vendor list, so you know these vendors are top-notch. At Langtree, you can access an easy load-in for vendors, making your vendors smile. Unlike venues in the Uptown area of Charlotte, there are no elevators, parking fees, or load-in restrictions at Langtree.

What do couples value most about hosting their wedding at The Venues at Langtree?

The scenery at The Venues at Langtree is stunning, and wedding photos are flawless. Many couples rave about multiple scenic locations for photographers to use. The grounds are immaculately maintained, and the details of the estate add southern charm.

Anything else before we sign off?

The pavilion is like a blank canvas with upgrades built in through the elegant chairs and tables. Couples can create their ideal experience while saving money on rentals and not paying for upgrades. I’ve planned weddings at various venues in Charlotte, while other locations are rigid for valid reasons (city restrictions, security requirements, transportation issues, etc.) Langtree is focused on the couple and providing expertise where it is needed most. I think that is important to consider from a planning perspective. Also, I want to say, “have fun planning your wedding!” Sometimes people forget that the planning process can be whimsical or as structured as you want it to be. Wedding planning is about you, your relationship, and your special day.