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Our Engagement

March 30, 2013

In early February 2013, I read an article on an outdoor blog entitled “12 Most Adventurous Wedding Proposals.” After loving Laura for 5 years, most of which were long-distance, the question was not if we would get married but when. I remember finishing the article and saying to myself, "Hell, I can do better than that."

Fast-forward a couple months…

Laura and I are finishing up a long climb on a private weekend in a remote part of the NC mountains. I'm taking way more time than usual to set up an anchor. Laura thinks she hears me talking to someone, but after 5 hours climbing in the sun she doesn't dwell on it. Soon after, she joins me on the ledge and I say something cheesy like "This is great rock isn't it? What do you think of this one?" AJ (our close friend), who earlier rappelled to an out-of-sight ledge, begins snapping pictures. Laura knows this is something more than a "private" weekend in the mountains.

After giving a few minutes for our heart rates to return to normal, we top out the climb and bushwhack out onto the summit of Table Rock. The rhododendron gives way to a rocky outcropping with over a dozen friends and family there to celebrate. We share a toast, then hike down to a cushy campsite stocked with growlers from the our favorite brewery. Everyone enjoyed cold beverages and warm reminiscing until the wee hours of the morning.

It was the best day ever.

After sharing the story with the writer of the list that inspired me, our engagement made it to the desk of the chief west coast editor for National Geographic Adventure, but not any further. Even though our story was not NatGeo worthy, I'm happy to share it with you and hope the Wedding Experience will rival the Engagement.

- Oakley

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Saturday

May 24, 2014


Start the weekend off with some fun in the highlands. Soar through the continent's oldest mountains via zipline, then join us back at the wedding venue Saturday evening for a casual night of barbecue, brews, and live music. Dinner will be provided free of charge and all proceeds from the cash bar will go to charity.


Zipline Adventure

High-flying canopy tour located just north of Asheville
The Zipline Adventure will start between 11am and noon on Saturday. Navitat Canopy Tours, located 30 minutes north of Asheville, will be facilitating the event. The Zipline Adventure will last ~2.5 hours and will involve 3 LONG zips and about 1 mile of hiking. The cost is $70 and will be due in advance. Full refunds will be offered In the event of severe weather. For more information, visit Navitat's website at the link below.
Navitat Canopy Tours Website | (828) 626-3700

Pig Pickin’

Join us for a 6pm supper at Brahma Ridge
We will be hosting casual dinner on Saturday for all guests. Barbeque from 12 Bones will be provided, along with Ice Cream sandwiches from Sunshine Sammies. There will be a cash bar with all proceeds benefiting the Carolina Climbers Coalition, a group who maintains access to climbing areas across the Carolinas. Their efforts have directly contributed to some of our most memorable times together.

The Townies (featuring Tyler Nail & Johnathan Loos)

Folk/Americana from Winston-Salem, NC
Alone, Tyler Nail and Jonathan Loos would both be highly regarded singer songwriters, even in the saturated market that is western NC. Together, these two feed off each other creating tight harmonies and improvisational guitar licks. When they add Quique Rodriquez-Pastor on Bass and Marshall Bjorling on Drums you get The Townies. The full band produces a sound reminiscent of the vinyl folk era, with a little southern twang added for good measure. Expect to hear original songs and The Townies interpretation of tunes from Old Crow Medicine Show, The Band, and Neil Young. Jonathan Loos is Oakley’s co-worker and says this blurb is total BS.

Sunday

May 25, 2014


Join us on the hilltop at Brahma Ridge at 5pm sharp for the most important moment of our lives! Drinks and snacks will be served immediately after the ceremony. Later on, local food trucks will be cooking up a made-to-order feast with live music carrying us into night. Food and drinks will be free of charge. Dress is casual and festive - All we ask is that you leave the jeans at home.


The Esteemed Colleagues

Bluegrass/string music from Louisville, KY
The Esteemed Colleagues will be playing the ceremony and dinner. They perform danceable string band music with a focus on instrumental prowess, vocal harmonies, and fun set lists ranging from classic bluegrass like Bill Monroe to The Beatles and other vintage pop classics. We met members of the Esteemed Colleagues at a house concert in Morganton two years ago and have kept in touch since. These guys are amazing and will not disappoint.

Gypsy Queen Cuisine

Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Food Truck
The Gypsy Queen, Suzy Phillips, can be credited with reviving the food truck movement 25 years ago by spearheading a movement to do away with antiquated city ordinances. More recently, her “Lebanese Street Food” has been voted best food truck in Asheville multiple years in a row and some say she makes the best falafel in the universe.

The Lowdown

Simple and Southern Food Truck
The Lowdown food truck is owned and operated by Asheville native Nate Kelly. He prides himself on creating simple sandwiches, like PB&Js or BLTs, but with a uniquely southern twist. Nate happens to be close friends with Suzy of the Gypsy Queen! They recently vacationed together in Mexico!

Signature Soundz

Funky, soulful dance music from Greensboro, NC
Our headlining act plays a funky blend of soul and R&B. Derrick Christopher Bartell, Jeffry Miles McLean and Larry Graves have played together off and on for several years with different bands. After playing a series of shows together in April 2005, they decided to join forces and formed Signature Soundz. The last six years have honed this group into one of Greensboro’s finest bands. We met Signature Soundz at a friend's wedding and they were our first choice for The Wedding Experience.

The Wedding Party

Laura Painter

Bride

Laura was born in Charlotte, NC to Kevin and Patty Painter. As a child, she wanted to be just like her brother, Michael, going as far as getting the same bowl cut. She gets her kindness from her mom and her pragmatism from her dad. When not poking strangers eyeballs (read: Optometrist), she likes being outside with her pup, Beta.

Oakley Cline

Groom

Oakley was born in Miami, FL to Buddy and Kathi Cline. His fondest childhood memories consist of climbing trees in the woods outside their home in Pinnacle, NC. Unable to shake the hunger for adventure, on most weekends he can be found scaling rocky cliffs in western NC. During the week, he helps companies design user-friendly apps and websites.

Patty Painter

Matron of Honor

Laura says: I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for this incredible woman. She is my biggest fan, my therapist, my nurse, my co-Beta-sitter, and my friend. My mom always puts others first, so it is her turn to be first in line to be next to me on this special day.

Scott Cline

Best Man

Oakley says: Scott is my uncle and best man. He’s the only person qualified to stand beside me on the big day other than my dad. He has a kind heart with a love for mountains and natural places. Scott is as laid back as they come - When I grow up, I want to be just like him.

Ilene Sheehy

Bridesmaid

Laura says: Ilene and I have been best friends since childhood. Our grown up lives may have brought physical distance to our relationship but whenever we reunite we pick up right where we left off. I will always consider Ilene to be a sister and part of the Painter family.

Chris Sartin

Groomsman

Oakley says: Chris lived across the hall from me freshman year at UNCW. We shared many nights doing what college kids do - and had a hell of a time. Chris has an understated sense of humor and never hesitates to help his friends out. He also happens to be the best at every video game. Ever.

Lauren McLean

Bridesmaid

Laura says: I am the luckiest person to have met Lauren my freshman year at UNCW. Our bond grew even more once we became roommates that made Lauren irreplaceable in my life. She has always given me strength and support in every aspect of my life with her kind words and grilled cheese sandwiches.

AJ Smith

Groomsman

Oakley says: AJ and I started working at Bellomy Research at the same time. It didn't take long to realize we had a lot in common. We own so many of the same books, albums, and outdoor gear it borders on creepy. AJ helped plan almost every aspect of the Wedding Experience and I couldn't be more grateful for his support.

Allison Higgins

Bridesmaid

Laura says: I met Allison during my junior year at Wilmington. Allison has a vibe that radiates happiness and positivity, which made it easy for us to become quick friends. I always look forward to our yearly tradition of music festivals and concerts. It's a privilege to have her in my life.

Jay Mitiguy

Groomsman

Oakley says: Jay and I met during our early years in Wilmington, NC. We were roommates, skimboarders and schemers throughout our college careers. Although Jay moved to Vermont after graduating, we have stayed close through vacations and a mutual interest in brewing good beer.

Christopher McDonald

Bridesman

Laura says: I have known Chris since childhood, but our friendship has grown with each year that I’ve known him. Chris has always made and gave the extra effort to see me when I would be visiting, which makes him stand out from the rest. His big heart and hilarious personality makes every outing an adventure and I can’t wait for the next one.

Jackie Johnson

Groomsmaid

Oakley says: Jackie and I were close friends in college and traveled to the UK together. Jackie has an unyielding positive attitude and is willing to try almost anything once. This makes her a great accomplice for a guy who likes to try everything. It also doesn't hurt that Jackie loves good beer, good music, and being outside. Unfortunately, she also likes cats. Gross.

The Venue

Brahma Ridge Farm & Events Center

Brahma Ridge was the first venue we visited when wedding planning started; we knew it was the place within 5 minutes of arriving. We went to one more venue in downtown Asheville, then canceled the rest of the afternoon appointments and went to the bar.

Brahma Ridge is a fully functioning farm and events center located outside of Asheville, NC. The site is simple and natural and boasts a locally-crafted circus-style tent, which will be the center of events at the Wedding Experience. The site is managed and maintained by Rob and Holly Denton, who were the first to marry at Brahma Ridge in 2006.

brahmaridgeeventcenter.com | (828) 665-4404
84 Brahma Ridge Candler, NC 28715 | View in Google Maps

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Brahma Ridge:

  • The roads around the venue can be confusing, even with a GPS. Follow The Wedding Experience signs once you see them.
  • On-site parking is easy to find and only a short walk from the event tent and ceremony; there will be a golf cart shuttle for those with mobility issues.
  • Ladies: If it has rained recently, the ground will be wet. While we're sure Rob and Holly would appreciate their site being aerated, you might get a little tired of it. Leave the heels at home and follow suit with the wedding party; we’re wearing Chacos.
  • If you’re consuming adult beverages at the Wedding Experience, please plan your return transportation accordingly. We expect everyone leaving the event in the driver’s seat to be sober.
  • Last, but certainly not least, Brahma Ridge is DOG FRIENDLY. Well-behaved children are also welcome, but we may ask that they are kept on a leash. Sorry for being so mean.

Asheville

Oakley's Guide to the Land of the Sky

Welcome to Asheville. Home to countless showerless dreadlocked vegans and my favorite town in the great state of North Carolina. Below you will find several recommendations to make your Wedding Experience weekend more enjoyable. If Asheville sounds out of your element, I’ve included a “Hip-o-meter” rating for each suggestion. The Hip-o-meter measures from 1 to 10; I hope it helps with your decision!

Click here for a printable version of this Guide

Strictly Beer:

The Bywater: Like a riverside cookout, but with 18 taps!
The Bywater is a recent Asheville discovery; it’s located a little north of downtown on the French Broad river. The atmosphere is that of a backyard cookout. Bring your own food and cook it up on their grills outside. They have several disk golf baskets and other lawn games like horseshoes and corn hole. Expect a rowdier, collegier crowd on the weekends.

Get wet. Wear a swimsuit and cool off in one of the oldest rivers in the world. Better yet, bring a tube and enjoy your cold beverage whilst floating.

Hip-o-meter: 5

bywaterbar.com

Highland Brewing: The largest craft beer producer in North Carolina
Highland’s founder, Oscar Wong, was born in Jamaica to Chinese parents. He immigrated to the United States to go to Notre Dame and started brewing German-style beers in western NC in 1994. It does not get more Asheville than that. Highland has since grown to be one of the largest craft production facilities in the southeast and ships its brews internationally. Tours are free and happen at 4pm everyday except Sunday.

Get a St. Teresa’s Pale if you want something smooth and balanced. Get an Oatmeal Porter if you’re looking for a beer with a little more sweetness, and alcohol.

Hip-o-meter: 3

highlandbrewing.com

The Thirsty Monk: A Belgian beer specialist that tapped almost 2,000 unique beers last year
If I visit one place in Asheville, it’s the Thirsty Monk. Pick up their draft list and you’ll understand why the internet recently voted Thirsty Monk the “best beer bar in the southeast.” Their basement boasts the best variety of Belgian brews outside of, well, Belgium. Head downstairs, find a seat, and spending a few hours expanding your palate.

Get a beer style you’ve never tried before. Gueze, Tripel, Berliner Weisse. With a 10 page beer list, your bartender can surely help you choose better than I could.

Hip-o-meter: 8

monkpub.com

Breakfast:

Tupelo Honey Cafe: Traditional southern breakfast, but with an Asheville flair
Tupelo is the most traditional breakfast joint on the list and also one of Asheville’s most popular. They’re famous for their biscuits (topped with tupelo honey), goat cheese grits, and sweet potato pancakes. Get there early for a shorter wait.

Get the goat cheese grits. Good god get the grits.

Hip-o-meter: 4

tupelohoneycafe.com

The Green Sage: A quick stop for coffee and simple sandwiches
No time to sit down for breakfast? Drop by the Greensage for a breakfast sandwich and coffee. The line may look long but it moves quickly.

Get the Laura Painter special. Turkey sausage, egg and cheese on a croissant with a dirty chai to drink.

Hip-o-meter: 7

thegreensage.net

Over Easy Cafe: My favorite place to go during the AM in Asheville
Over Easy was the first breakfast establishment I went to in Asheville and it remains my resounding favorite. Everything here is top notch. Yogurt and granola, French toast, or one of their many Latin-inspired dishes. They’re all awesome.

Get some fresh squeezed juice. I prefer the Waking Up, but after a long night of libations you can’t go wrong the Hydration.

Hip-o-meter: 8

overeasyasheville.com

Lunch:

Asheville Brewing: Beer and pizza. What more do you need?
Asheville Pizza and Brewing has a great selection of house-made beer and food for sharing. They have a very laid back atmosphere and a large covered patio with lawn games galore. A good place for large groups to enjoy a warm afternoon.

Get a Moon Pie (Asheville’s take on the classic Mellow Mushroom “Magical Mystery Tour”) and a Shiva IPA or Ninja Porter. Or both.

Hip-o-meter: 6

ashevillebrewing.com

Jack of the Wood: Ye Olde Pub with traditional Celtic food and live music
Jack of the Wood is my uncle and Best Man’s favorite place to stop when visiting Asheville. It has the atmosphere of an English pub with traditional dishes like fish and chips and shepherd's pie. Jack of the Wood also makes a great late night stop as they have some of the best live music playing Thursdays through Sundays.

Get Scott’s favorite, the Green Man Porter. A smooth dark ale that was originally made in-house until the brewery moved to a larger production facility down the road. It seems that everyone else liked their beer too.

Hip-o-meter: 4

jackofthewood.com

Salsas: Tex-mex, Asheville style
Salsas is Chris’ (my Groomsman) favorite restaurant in Asheville. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating and a fresh selection of tex-mex dishes and killer sangria. It should also be added that Chris hates hippies, so Salsas is a good choice for someone wanting to avoid Asheville’s more… interesting... demographics. Make sure to plan your visit around their afternoon siesta; they don’t seat anyone between 3-5pm.

Get the Molcajete - It comes highly recommended by Chris.

Hip-o-meter: 3

salsas-asheville.com

Dinner:

Wicked Weed: Arguably the most up-and-coming craft brewpub in the country
Wicked Weed opened its doors just over a year ago to instantaneous fanfare. During their short existence they have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Southern Living, and Garden & Gun. The credit is due and you should pay them a visit. They have a wide variety of styles on tap at all times, but they specialize in Belgian ales.

Get a Sir Ryan the Pounder if you want something to, well, pound. A Freak IPA if you want hoppy. One of their numbered saisons (I want to say they are on XXV) if you want something fruity and a little stronger. Ask for something funky (beer nerd for “sour”) if you’re feeling adventurous.

Hip-o-meter: 7

wickedweedbrewing.com

Laughing Seed: Vegetarian for meat lovers
The Laughing Seed is my favorite vegetarian restaurant. The have a wonderful selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes that appeal to everyone, even carnivores like Laura and I. They have a well-appointed but casual atmosphere and a good drink selection. Their Thai/Indian dishes, like the Harmony Bowl, are always a solid choice.

Get their Market Plate as an appetizer.

Hip-o-meter: 8

Curate: Upscale tapas bar recognized by James Beard
Curate is Asheville’s premier tapas bar. It is the only establishment on this list I have never been to, and therefore, can’t recommend any items in particular. I know there is always a line, and it is always hard to get a table. The internet has all sorts of things to say about this place and I doubt it would disappoint.

Get a table in advance. Seriously.

Hip-o-meter: 6

curatetapasbar.com

Shopping:

Grove Arcade: Historic market in the heart of downtown
The Grove Arcade opened in 1929 and was the most frequented market in western NC up through WWII. It was closed soon after and fell into disrepair until a renovation in the late 90’s brought back it’s former glory. Re-opening in 2002, the current Grove features art, books, music, and all sorts of other wares.

Get some crazy freaky fossils from Enter the Earth.

Hip-o-meter: 3

grovearcade.com

That store that smells like patchouli
On every other street corner in Asheville you will find a retailer who specializes in tie-dyed afghans, incense, and Grateful Dead memorabilia. Sure they have different names, but I’m convinced they’re all connected via an underground network of communes. Bring home some crappy fair trade jewelry for mom!

Get nothing. But you should probably walk into every store and browse like you’re going to buy something.

Hip-o-meter: 9

A website? C'mon bro, and let the corporations track our lives!?

Moss vendor at Battery Park
Meet Tristan, the Bob Ross of moss and Asheville’s most popular purveyor of self-sustaining ecosystems. Tristan mans his booth outside the Grove Arcade on Battery Park Dr. Don’t think a terrarium is for you? You’re about to be convinced otherwise!

“Pick up the jar. Is it hot or cold? How much does it weigh? Tell me about yourself in 30 seconds and I’ll tell you which terrarium matches your personality.”

Tristan is the moss master and will make certain you leave with more than plants in a jar, you will leave with a new friend.

Get the only thing he sells - Moss and happiness

Hip-o-meter: 11

treesanart.wix.com/tristanhertz

Click here for a printable version of this Guide

Registry

We are fortunate enough to have about everything we need. Instead of gifts, we would love for our friends and family to help fund a honeymoon adventure to the Pacific Northwest. Follow the link below to visit our registry and learn how you can help make our dream a reality.