Ken D.
Yelp
If I were single and wedding venues were women, I'd marry this one. Really, I would. Let me tell you why.
Vesta and I had done a few weddings there, when it was the Chism House, and we liked shooting there back then a lot. Plus, the large open tent they used for receptions made for plenty of light, so we didn't have to use a flash during the reception till it got dark.
So, I'll admit I might have had a bit of a chip on my shoulder when we got here last weekend to photograph Carlee and Charlie's wedding, but the three people, Casey, Heather and Amanda, who were on site to make sure everything went smoothly, wiped away all of my misgivings.
Right off the bat Heather told Charlie and his crew that she had beer in the pool room, which was where the groom and his men were going to get ready. And, she added, that if there was any particular beer or spirit they'd prefer, SHE GET IT for them.
That's like rock star treatment.
Now for the venue itself. The old Chism house was pretty neat, but the Elm Estate people turned it into something spectacular. Just look at my photos and you'll see I'm telling you true. And where the tent was is now a large building, so okay, we gotta use a flash in there, so it's a good thing we know how to do that.
The new building comes with a fully stocked bar and two of the best bartenders we've ever come across at a wedding venue. Actually, they're right up there with the best we've ever encountered in a bar anywhere and Vesta and I are bar people.
The main house, which you can rent for the night if you're getting married there, is a dream house. I can't imagine a better place to spend your wedding night. Okay, Versailles maybe, but that's a long way a way. Buckingham Palace too would be good. That's a bit closer than Versailles, but still it's far away.
The venue is wonderful and it's right up there at the top as far as wedding venues go, but what puts it over the top is the care and consideration Casey, Heather and Amanda give not only to the Bride and Groom and their crew, but to us too and to all the guests.
If you're getting married anywhere in the Pacific Northwest, from Wyoming to California and on up into Canada, you should check out the Elm Estate. Heck, if you're in Paris and can't get Versailles for your wedding, you can come to Reno and get the Elm Estate. Really you could and you'll be glad you made the flight. Reno is great, the Elm Estate is too.