Yay! Another WEDDING VENUE feature for y’all today! My blog series totally got the short end of the stick once wedding season kicked off but I’m back today with one of my very very favorite venues in the Raleigh area – The Oaks at Salem
THE OAKS AT SALEM – APEX, NC WEDDING VENUE 
April (the owner at The Oaks) and I – PS have y’all met her?? she is AMAZING…this girl is my jam and she is SUCH a joy to work with!! Experience + passion + professionalism – that’s April! We sat down to chat last week and I asked her all about The Oaks and how she got started! Read along to hear all about it!
How did you get started?
Having been a photographer for a number of years, I had brides who would always ask to get married here when I shot their bridal portraits. Then I began receiving emails from brides not booked with me (who already had a photographer) asking if they could get married here. So, I started the permitting process of looking and hosting events and after a 9 month journey, we opened our doors in February 2011. Because I had the privilege of photographing at other venues, I knew exactly what I wanted to provide my brides and grooms here at The Oaks.
Tell me about your favorite wedding last season.
My favorite wedding was a rainstorm that just popped up right in the middle of the ceremony. Guests came dashing back for the tent and I was so worried about the bride being upset about her hair and makeup. We had towels ready to help her get dried off as she came in, but just as we opened the door to enter the bridal suite, we paused…..we saw the bride and groom slow dancing, to no music. Just the two of them soaking wet and laughing while they danced! It was true happiness we witnessed in that moment and something I’ll never forget. That’s why I love my job! We closed the door and let them have that moment together.
How far out should a bride pay a deposit to secure your venue for her wedding day?
We typically book a year to a year and a half in advance, so I always tell brides, if you want a prime wedding month, you should reserve it as soon as possible.
What is included when a couple books your venue for their wedding?
In our package, we provide a bridal suite and groom’s retreat, 3 ceremony locations, tent, tables, chairs, linens (any color), valet parking, event coordination, video projector, glassware decorations for guest tables, and an easel. We also do all of the setting up and breaking down for their event.
How do you help couples customize their wedding?
We provide a list of vendors to our couples when they book with us – to help advice them on vendors we have worked with know will take great care of their needs. We also conduct a pre-wedding vendor meeting inviting all the vendors to our property before the day of the wedding to help create a timeline and layout for the event!
What’s one interesting fact about The Oaks at Salem?
We are very green for the environment! We have a geothermal system for heating and cooling, foam insulation and energy efficient bulbs throughout the facility.
What do you have planned for the future?
When first opening, we were the last 5 acres of a previous family’s farm. This year we were able to purchase adjacent parcels of what used to be part of the original Howell Family farm. We are excited to say that we are currently just over 11acres now and hope to be able to farm some of the land to provide produce/greenery for our caterers and florists!
How many guest can you accommodate?
299
What makes The Oaks at Salem unique?
The grounds are the most appealing…very serene, courtyard, bridge, barn, pond and fields. The facility also works well because of how open it is for events. Plus, the ease of onsite parking. Several local hotels provide complimentary shuttles which make the overall experience very easy for guests.
Ahh, yes, yes, and yes! From a photographers perspective this venue is a dream! Loads of natural light, outdoor ceremony locations (with a great rain back-up plan), a WHITE tented reception and acres upon acres for gorgeous portraits! If you’re interested in learning more about The Oaks at Salem, visit their website and contact them to set up a tour! I’m pretty sure you might fall in love, too! I hope y’all have a fantastic Tuesday!! Xo, Ashley
View more of our Featured Venue posts:
The Stockroom at 230
Highgrove Estate
The Oaks at Salem
Merrimon-Wynne House
The Mims House
