About Us

Yesterday's

Lumber Mill

Built in the 1930's, the mill was founded by Samuel Kress (owner of Kress Five & Dime and the S. H. Kress & Co. building in Asheville). The Kress family had owned over 4,000 acres in what's now called the SmokeRise development. They constructed the timber-frame mill to process the native wood to build their large family lodge up the road in 1940.

A few decades later, the entire development was bought by Smoky Mountain Mental Health. The mill was used to teach woodworking skills to community members with special needs before turning into a full production mill, making furniture parts for companies such as Stanley, Kincaid, and Thomasville Furniture. The entire dimension mill ran off a steam system, powered by an outside boiler room with a flawlessly constructed soaring chimney. Many years later, after decades of abandonment, the newest owners have kept this chimney as the focal point of the property's outdoor fireplace.

Throughout the entire recent renovation process, the owners prioritized preservation of the building's historic significance. They hold a strong desire for their guests to appreciate the same breathtaking qualities that they themselves fell in love with upon first glance. Prepare to discover the vast original features which remain well-intact and tastefully highlighted throughout the entire property. From the gorgeous hardwood floors and over-sized barn doors, to the copper roof vents and cart tracks, and even the old pieces introduced into the new spaces, this historical gem will undeniably captivate you and your guests!

Today's

Event Venue

Covered Pavilion Leave the hassle of moving chairs and stress of weather behind with this ceremony site! Rain or shine, this stunning open-air pavilion filled with beautifully restored church pews (seating up to 250 guests) is the perfect ceremony site for a picturesque mountain backdrop - giving you the best of both worlds!	Entry Way What was once the dry kiln is now an impressive corridor that features the original cart tacks in the floor and comfortably welcomes its guests. This beautiful and spacious passage to the cocktail room offers a built-in counter for guest books, table assignments, cards/gifts drop-off, portrait displays, and more!	Cocktail Room This room, full of character and original features of the old mill, is the perfect space for your guests to mingle before taking their seats for dinner. Custom built cocktail tales, old cart tracks, oversized barn door, repurposed gauges, and other salvaged pieces are featured throughout the room and make for wonderful conversation pieces!
Bridal Suite This elegantly decorated suite is centrally located among all of the ceremony sites. You and your closest ladies will enjoy a luxurious, spa-like bathroom, spacious closet, getting-ready spaces, lounging area, and a lovely patio space.	Groom's Quarters This notable "man cave" occupies the second floor and functions as a peaceful yet entertaining retreat for the gentlemen including a full bathroom, kitchenette, and lounging area with a pool table, dart board, and outdoor balcony.	Reception Hall Upon opening the cocktail room's oversized barn door, guests will enter into the grand reception hall. In here, two large glass garage doors allow an open-air concept and easy access to the covered patio.
Covered Patio Enjoy the Mountain View from this covered patio. From cocktail hour to dance floor and everything in between, this versatile space can be utilized however your heart desires!	Mountain Top Our upper lot features this stunning overlook. Achieve the mountain-range, parkway view without the hike for some unforgettable photographs that you and your significant other will cherish for the rest of your lives!

The Founders

Alexis & Brock

Alexis is an orthopedic physician assistant originally from Hershey, PA. She found her way to the Western NC area in 2012 shortly after graduating from PA school & has called these mountains "home" ever since. In addition to her interest in science/medicine, she also enjoys the art of photography, architecture, and building design/decor.

Brock was born and raised in Cherokee, NC where he started his own grading & excavation business, Warpaint Enterprises. In his spare time he enjoys creating all types of vehicle fabrication projects. From rock bouncers and swamp buggies to rat rods and party buses, he can build it all!

These two met shortly after Alexis' big move down south and over the years their friendship grew into much more. Originally looking for a small home to flip, Brock found this property and took Alexis up to see it just before it went for sale at an auction. After almost skipping out on the auction (to attend a rock bouncer race), Brock ended up with the winning bid for the mill. Since that moment, these two have worked hard to renovate and build a venue

that dreams are made of, while having some fun along the way!