I am at that age where it seems like everyone around me is getting married.
In the last year I have been to six weddings and in addition to that, I know a handful of other couples who tied the knot. It seems like all my friends from college are taking the leap and I have been more than happy to help them celebrate.
Two close friends, Jackie and Andrew, own a home in Whitsett and got married Saturday. It was a wonderful weekend. Luckily, after waking up to rain, the skies cleared up for the ceremony which was held outdoors at Tuscany Gardens in Browns Summit.
This is the third wedding of the previously mentioned seven that I have been really close to both the bride and groom so I really enjoyed watching both of them take their vows. I’m kind of a sap, but it was really great to see them start the next chapter in their lives.
The bride looked absolutely stunning of course and my friend Drew, the groom, looked pretty sharp himself. They are both beautiful people and just perfect for each other. I’m really happy for them.
One of the things everyone talks about after a wedding is the food and drink. I have yet to attend a wedding that did not have a fabulous menu and Jackie and Drew’s was no different. The appetizer buffet included an amazing crab dip, cheese and crackers, fruit and more. The main course featured another feast, this time roast beef, chicken, meatballs, cheese raviolis, grilled vegetables and other delicious items. The cake was unbelievable too. You just can’t beat the menu at a wedding.
I was privileged to attend the wedding with my girlfriend Regenia and two of my closest friends, Ricky and Ashley Schlieper, who are newlyweds themselves.
I was part of their wedding earlier this year on Valentine’s Day in Charlotte and it was amazing. We really enjoy spending time with them and had a blast at their wedding. It’s always great to see them.
I also got a chance to spend Friday night with Ricky’s parents and grandmother who live in Graham. We all got together for drinks at a new wine bar in Elon called 116 Oak. For those who have not tried out the cuisine or enjoyed a drink at 116 Oak, I recommend you do so. It gives that delicious wedding menu a run for its money.
The restaurant is on West Lebanon Avenue and the atmosphere is like nothing else in this area. Once inside, the mood is relaxed and they even have a lounge area where you can enjoy the company of friends in a living room style setting with comfy couches and chairs. We sat at a traditional table and sampled several different kinds of wine.
The restaurant is set up perfectly to try things. They offer several smaller portions of food so that you can order a few different dishes and try each other’s. We ordered a gourmet pizza which had spicy grilled chicken over organic basil pesto with parmesan and mozzarella. It was delicious.
I am a sucker for outstanding food and drink so I guess I will count down the days until the next wedding.
Online editor Alex Kreitman can be reached at alex_kreitman@link.freedom.com. You can also read his sports blog at alexkreitman.freedomblogging.com.




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BW3’s as it’s often referred to serves up some of the tastiest wings I’ve enjoyed and offers a sports bar atmosphere that in this area can’t be matched.