This year has come with many challenges, and our local community and businesses in Jackson County have overcome a lot to stay in business, or even to open their doors for the first time. We love supporting local in any way we can and so we are starting a series of blog post that will highlight local businesses.
First on our list is an event venue that is near and dear to Bear Lake Reserve, Castle Ladyhawke at Bear Lake Reserve. We had a virtual interview with Lady Sarah, the Castle’s Castellan, and asked her to share a little bit with all of you about what makes the Castle unique and what precautions they are taking to ensure to health and safety of their guest during the pandemic.
Here is what she had to say:
Q: PLEASE TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT CASTLE LADYHAWKE.
A: Castle Ladyhawke is Western North Carolina’s premier exclusive use wedding and event venue, built as a private home in 2005, re-opened as a venue in August 2020. It was built in the style of Scottish castles and with many authentic imported Scottish elements including stained glass and furniture. It sits amidst 62 acres in the mountains of Tuckasegee, within a mile of Bear Lake Reserve.
We offer everything from 2 hour elopement packages up to full day weddings, corporate getaways, team building exercises in combination with Bear Lake Reserve, private events, and limited attendance exclusive music events and dining experiences. Castle events and weddings feature exclusive catering by award winning Chef Johannes Klapdohr.
Castle Ladyhawke really does deliver that aura of uniqueness and authenticity, and a sense of being in another world without having to leave the country.
Q: PLEASE SHARE THE CASTLE’S HISTORY
A: The Castle was built as a private residence between 2005 and 2008 by land developer Kim Nord, it became a private event venue in 2008 when Kim relocated down to Florida, and continued as an event venue until 2016. It was recently re-opened under the new ownership of a group of Bear Lake Reserve home owners.
Castle Ladyhawk was built over a period of two years using local stone masons and other tradesmen, and as many locally sourced materials as possible. Kim’s love of Scotland and all things Scottish led her to create this spectacular masterpiece of construction, with 30 inch thick walls; a 60 foot tower; and a Great Hall with vaulted ceiling, stone floors, and fireplace incorporating a 14th century mantle to rival those in many Scottish castles.
Q: PLEASE SHARE YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT BEING IN BUSINESS IN WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
A: The wonderful thing about being here in WNC is the incredible sense of community and mutual support we have. The scenery is spectacular, of course, but the people here – the business people, the artisans and farmers – give it that extra something special that means working here really is working amongst friends.
Q: WHAT IS THE CASTLE “FAMOUS” FOR?
A: Castle Ladyhawke is known for its beauty, its authenticity and the totally unique experience it provides for anyone who uses it for an event. And now, with its close partnership with Bear Lake Reserve, the breadth of amenities and accommodations it offers is absolutely second to none.
Q: HOW HAVE YOUR OFFERINGS/SERVICE CHANGED IN RESPONSE TO THE PANDEMIC? AND HOW ARE YOU STILL SAFELY SERVING YOUR CUSTOMERS?
A: Everything we do, whether it be a large event or a tour for two, takes into account all of the mandated NC requirements. Masks are required by everyone both staff and guests, and provided for those who forget. Hand cleaning facilities are readily available, social distancing is encouraged and calculated for all situations, and cleaning is more paramount than ever. Larger events are broken down into groups to meet the sizes required by regulations and buffet stations must be served.
Q: WHAT OTHER LOCAL BUSINESS DO YOU USE AND CAN RECOMMEND?
A: At Castle Ladyhawke we use as many local business and artisans as possible, and our preferred vendors list for wedding and events also contains many local business.
Our room signs and drinks coasters were made by Nick Longanecker of Dillsboro and our soap dishes are by Victoria Shufelt of Viva Arts Studio.
Our landscaper Richard Clark, builder Stephen Geldard, handyman Robin Sharrett, and cleaner Krystle Cabe all help to keep Castle Ladyhawke in tip top condition and looking its best.
Castle Ladyhawke is North Carolina’s most elegant and magical special event venue and we are honored to work so closely with them to offer our community such a beautiful place to celebrate life’s special moments.
