A Hidden Treasure

One of my favorite things is when two people you love become engaged!  I don't think anyone would disagree.  Hearing this news is one of the most exciting conversations you have with your friends and family.  According to my FI, I perhaps become too excited when I hear "I'm engaged". Case in point: on the season finale of the The Office before Jim narrowly missed the opportunity to propose to Pam (dang it Andy!) my heart rate was through the roof with nervous excitement.  Umm...they aren't really people!?!  

So, you can imagine my excitement when people I just adore (in real life) get engaged! 

Meet Mimi and Blake:

Ok, don't lie...they are two of the cutest people you've ever seen right?!  Well I certainly think so!  Blake is in school with my FI and Mimi will be an elementary school teacher very soon.  Not only do we feel like we have a ton in common but I don't think we could get along any better.  I love them both so much.  

Imagine my excitement when last month, Blake got down on one knee and asked Mimi to marry him!   YAY!  They waited to tell us in person, at a restaurant where I'm pretty sure I screamed very loudly and jumped up and down.  Since the engagement, they have set a date and begun planning. 

Of course, it's not smooth sailing though.  With busy schedules and year around optometry school they were really confined to one weekend in May 2009 to get married.  

Church: Check

Minister: Check

Reception Venue: Come to find out it, also happens to be a weekend during which Knoxville will be invaded by some conference of some sort.  So, I searched and searched for ideas trying to help Mims find a place.  One after another were booked or not large enough to hold more than 150 guests.  What's a girl to do?  

Persevere, that's what she does!  My advice to other brides is to do what Mimi did:  Ask local vendors in the wedding business for help and suggestions.  Mimi asked a local photographer for suggestions and look what she found: 

Hunter Valley Farm

Look at the view!

They told Mimi that in the fall they will be enclosing the space with glass where all the opening areas are and installing air conditioning and heat to make it a year around venue.  Also, they will be putting in a dock where tables can be set up and beautiful photographs will be taken!  Awesome find Mims!  I can't wait till May 2009. 

Hunter Valley Farm

9111 Hunter Valley Lane

Knoxville, Tennessee 37922

(865) 691-8225