Stop by Ritchie Hill during the week and there's a good chance you'll spot a photo shoot in progress. It's a popular site for photographers throughout our region. We've hosted shoots for everything from clothing catalogues to yearbook photos - and of course engagement and bridal sessions as well. But it's the "styled shoots"  that we often walk away most inspired by. Whether the shoot is slated for publishing or just a photographer's portfolio, it's a time when creativity and staging meet the art of photography to create the perfect shot.

Shoots like the one above by Milk + Honey Photography make us re-imagine our space over and over again. It's a reminder about just how flexible a canvas Ritchie Hill makes for our clients' vision. 

From boho shoots around the fire pit, to catering shots of mouthwatering food, it's a time for vendors to display their work and design skills.

Roots Catering (featured below) is a local farm-to-table company that provides catering for all different types of events. Back in March, Roots came to us asking to have their very own styled shoot here, of course we said YES! They hired the oh so talented SMM Photography  to capture all of their locally sourced dishes. We specifically love the use of cast iron skillets!

If a bride or guest needs a little inspiration, a quick look through our styled shoots often helps get the ideas flowing. We've even had people choose Ritchie Hill just based on seeing photos from a particular shoot! Josh Deaton Photography, we're talking about your shoot below! 

We hear from photographers that they love our space because they have free reign over the venue and can get creative when styling and shooting. Avonné Photography is one of our well-known and loved photographers:

“I absolutely love Ritchie Hill and everything about it! I believe my favorite place in the whole venue is the Bridal suite and the checkered floors in the kitchen. I think Ritchie Hill has SO much character. It embodies such an old, quaint, vintage feel that makes it so easy to create there. Its not flashy, and not cookie cutter, which makes it so unique. I love that most of the fixtures are original and the curb appeal is LIFE. I recommend this place to everyone I know.” - Avonne Photography

Come on by and ask to see one of our styled shoots! We would love to brainstorm your next event on the Hill!

Venue, Ritchie Hill | Photography, Casey Hendrickson Photography, SMM Photography, Josh Deaton, Avonne Photography, Milk and Honey Photography

Written By Jillian Stackhouse, Intern

Events hosted on the Hill are always unique in their own special way. But when we met Beth (the soon-to-be-grandmama), we knew we were in for something extra special. Her creativity and attention to detail was second to none...which is probably why her beautiful daughter, Lainee, left it all up to her Mama. Here's why we believe this to be the ultimate baby shower!

                             Pineapple Salsa

                          Chicken Salad Sandwiches

                      Strawberry Shortcake Shooters

Let's start with the food. Seasoned Sisters Catering pulled out all of the stops with a custom menu. Seasoned Sisters was founded by two high school friends, Kelly Robinson and Susan Smith, who have gone through many seasons of life as sisters, as they said. Together, they have planned countless charity and work events, parties, showers, wedding receptions, and wedding anniversary parties. They can create custom menus for just about any occasion including the above finger foods above that look oh so delicious!

Let's move on to the dessert, which we know is the most important. Our dining room is the perfect place for set-ups like this Delectable Designs cake above. Not only did they have this beautiful cake display, cake pops were a major hit too! After seeing this, you can't say that your mouth isn't watering. Baby Luke probably still dreams about all of the food he had that day.

Details details details! The moment we've all been waiting for...

When we say that there wasn't one detail left untouched, we weren't kidding! From the three-tier diaper cake and mason jars with custom straws, to the CUTEST cookies for all of their guests: perfection. Lunch and dessert were hosted indoors, then the guests made their way to our 1,800 square foot grand porch for gift opening. (We think that much space was needed for all of Baby Luke's gifts!)

All throughout the year we are hosting private events just like Lainee & Michael's Baby Shower. From baby showers to rehearsal dinners to birthday parties, we do it all! If you're interested in hosting yours on the hill, head to the Inquiries page and send us over your details. We'd love to bring your vision to life! 

Congratulations Lainee & Michael on the birth of Luke. We wish you the very best on this new journey. We did want to mention that the RH team talked about it and we think that Beth should plan Luke's 1st Birthday here! Okay okay, we will slow down...

Photography, Andie Linn Photography | Catering, Seasoned Sisters Catering | Cake & Desserts, Delectable Deserts | Rentals, Elegant & Classy Events

Written by Elizabeth Coddington

There are many parts to Ritchie Hill that make it such a unique and special venue, from the antique architecture to the lush landscape and the amazing lighting that spills through every window. One of our favorite features, however, is a spot we so lovingly refer to as our "secret side porch."

Walk through the big wooden doors adjacent to our bridal suite and you'll discover and open-air oasis: a secluded sleeping porch with a breezy views over the entire estate. 

Ritchie Hill's second-story sleeping porch was built with the house in 1902 and quickly became a favorite spot for family members of all ages. This style porch was created in the mid-1800s as an escape from the stifling hot air inside homes without air conditioning. Before Ritchie Hill was a venue, the Ritchie family's children used the sleeping porch for just that: sleeping outside during the hot summer months. Now, however, it is used for so much more! 

From romantic first looks, private dinners for newlyweds, photoshoot settings, or a place just to kick back and relax, our secret side porch adds a special look and ambiance.

The sleeping porch is located on the second floor which is completely dedicated to our lovely brides and can be accessed from two different rooms. Each door was stained a rich maple color and are accented with the original black screen doors the Ritchie's used many years ago. Brides often times enjoy the view to catch a sneak peak as guests arrive and her ceremony and reception are set up. 

 Austin Taylor Photography | JJ Horton Photography | Boonetown Story | Avonné Photography | Anderson Shore Photography | Rob + Kristen Photography | Two Cents + Film | Josh Deaton Photography 

Written by Sydney Rhyne

Jade + May Co. recently introduced a mobile bar service that's a fresh new take on the bar scene. This adorable reconstructed 1970’s trailer will park wherever you wish to provide delicious custom cocktails! We had the opportunity to host them for a photo shoot recently and fell in love. We think Jade + May Co. is the perfect addition to weddings or private events on the Hill - and a detail that's sure to leave your guest talking.  The style of the unique vintage trailer meshed with our southern Victorian charm is just about perfect.

Owners Kaci and Renato came across a mobile bar company on Instagram and immediately fell in love with the concept.  They started researching mobile bars in North Carolina and discovered few local companies pursuing the concept despite it's popularity on the west coast. Kaci and Renato saw an opportunity to provide this unique service, taking advantage of the popularity of both outdoor weddings and petite, vintage campers. 

Jade + May Co. services include everything you need to give your party a unique style, sophistication, and brilliant charm. They provide a full-service bar with a custom drink menu, bartenders, glassware, mixers and garnishes, ice, yard games and more! You provide the alcohol and Jade + May Co. does the rest. Pricing is based on the number of hours you would like to serve alcohol and the number of guests attending.

The team purchased the 1970's Travelier trailer from a family friend and began the construction and renovation phase in early 2017. They completed construction in March 2017 and have been booking events since then. They both love to entertain friends and family so they both knew they wanted to offer a special atmosphere to their clients to ensure that everyone has a great time celebrating, whatever the event may be.  

Jade + May Co. customizes each menu to their clients' most loved cocktail. There is no limit to what they can make. They even love making mocktails, punches, and infused waters specific to your event and style. They pride themselves on making delicious cocktails with only the freshest ingredients. Some of Kaci and Renato's personal favorites are listed below.

The name Jade and May comes from a pretty significant time in Kaci and Renato's lives. They found out they were pregnant with their first child back in September of 2016. Due in May, they decided if they were having a girl, her middle name would be Jade; a color they have come to love and wanted to represent in the style of the company.

"We truly believe our bar will provide the perfect focal point for friends and family to gather and remember your special event for a long time."

- Kaci & Renato

Visit their website for a quote or to find out more about Jade & May Co.  

Photography | Avonné Photography

Written By Melissa Burris