Congratulations! You’re engaged! (or having a baby, or getting ready to retire, or any other of life’s major moments) If you’re thinking that a destination event is going to be the perfect way to celebrate, Rutherford county has more than a few options to make the celebration more than just a memorable occasion.

The Firehouse Inn, Rutherfordton, NC

If you're looking to host an event with historical aplomb, this incredibly elegant bed and breakfast in downtown Rutherfordton is actually a completely restored 1925 town hall and firehouse. The fact that it’s located in downtown Rutherfordton means that there's already incredible antiquing and unique, kitschy shopping within walking distance, and this beautiful bed and breakfast is also a mere 25 minutes from Lake Lure and Chimney Rock, so the possibilities for indoor and outdoor planned activities are truly endless. The location has a dedicated event planner that personally handles every function from planning start to event finish, and if you’re looking for a historic, intimate setting this one is perfect. Inside has capacity for 30, and their picturesque outside courtyard has access for 75. Contact them at http://www.thefirehouseinn.com/EventPlanning.html to find out more and design your dream gathering.

The Olivewood Inn, Forest City, NC

Planning an event that requires architecturally inspired elegance? This lovely inn may not be what you expect to find amid the foothills of NC. The house was built in the 1920s and its Italian-inspired, European architecture is completely renovated and truly breathtaking. Its location on West Main Street in Forest City places it within easy walking distance of wonderfully quaint dining and shopping opportunities. Additionally, it's only blocks away from the Forest City Owls Baseball Stadium and the Bennett Classics Antique Auto Museum, so there are plenty of options for group activities nearby. As an added bonus, this lovely bed and breakfast acts as the headquarters for the Tree of Life Cultural Foundation, a 501c3 organization that supports local heritage and fine arts in the community, so if you’re looking to give back while hosting your event, this is the perfect spot. http://www.olivewoodinn.org/Olivewood_Inn/Welcome.html

The 1927 Lake Lure Inn & Spa, Lake Lure, NC

Does your event require the infusion of some Hollywood history? This incredible inn was the site of the hit movie 'Dirty Dancing ' and you'll recognize many of the iconic scene locations from the moment you arrive. But ‘Dirty Dancing’ locale aside, this hotel and spa is incredible in its own right. Their wedding venue won the Couple’s Choice Award for 2019, and it’s not difficult to see why. They offer event packages that include spa options in addition to the venue, rooms, and extras. Their artistically capable event staff is skilled at handling the nuances of any type of event’s needs, and the easy availability of their onsite Irongate Spa is wonderful for any bride, honoree, or event manager who needs a little TLC pre or post insanity. Add the fact that just a short walk or drive from the inn are all of the wonderful activities on Lake Lure itself like guided boat tours, lunch and dinner lake cruises, the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, and Lake Lure's Donald Ross designed golf course, and you can rest assured that your occasion will be one that your guests will rave about for years to come. https://www.lakelure.com/events/weddings/

Making Memories Foothills-Style

From spas and tours, to quaint bed & breakfast inns and shopping, these are the local opportunities that can make your event more than spectacular. Hosts and guests will appreciate the easy access to everything from picturesque hiking and a myriad of outdoor activities, to local 4 and 5 star dining that will leave their taste buds wanting more. Go to https://www.visitncsmalltowns.com/ today to plan an event that promises to be spectacular!