We recently found ourselves at Wisp Resort styling their three event venues and thinking about how to optimize the unique personality of each space. You are probably familiar with the Wisp as Deep Creek’s ski resort and golf haven. Here we’ll give you an overview of Wisp as a wedding and event venue, along with our vision of each reception location.
There are three reception sites available: McHenry Lodge, the Wedding Tent, and the Yurts. Couples can marry, dine, and dance in these spaces, although most choose to say their I Dos on top of the mountain with views of the lake below.
Amenities
All three venues have access to:
- Large on-site hotel for guest accommodations
- Restaurants and activities (golf, ski, mountain coaster, skating rink, etc)
- Grand entrance up the mountain on the ski lift (additional fee may apply)
- Katie and Jessica, Wisp Resort's Wedding and Social Specialist and Wedding Coordinator. These ladies are great to work with, always answering our questions promptly and helping us create a great experience for our clients.
POLICIES
- Wisp Resort provides all of the catering and alcohol for events on their property.
- Cakes and cookies may be brought in for events, but a cutting fee may apply.
- No open flames may be used in the Wedding Tent due to fire code regulations.
- Room blocks of 10 or more are eligible for special discounted rates.
McHenry Lodge
Photocredit: Shannon Gray
McHenry Lodge is a large multi-purpose space located in the main resort building. The room is used frequently throughout the year for meetings, business dinners, and to accommodate skiers, so it is designed to be more durable than elegant. Here at Fête, we know just how to jazz the space up, and play up the unique and interesting aspects of the room, so the more commercial attributes seem to fade away. Our favorite design aspects: the large window in the front of the room looking out to the slopes, and the industrial beams that crisscross the high ceiling. Be aware that this is likely the least private of the spaces available, as other guests of the resort also use the main building. Wisp provides large black curtains to add privacy to your event.
Style
One of the primary strengths of the room-it's size- can also be a challenge. The Lodge can accommodate even the largest of guest lists, but may seem like a dauntingly large space to decorate. Clients who have chosen this space have taken advantage of our large rentable pieces to bring structure to the room, making it feel more intimate. The Lodge provides a great opportunity for guests to customize the space to suit their needs and tastes. Many seem to agree that the addition of our rentable chair covers can make a huge difference in the feel of the room.
Formality
The Lodge has the ability to be dressed up for a formal affair, or decorated more casually if you prefer.
Ideal Client
Clients who choose the Lodge generally have large guest counts, or are drawn to the beauty of the view of the slopes from the large windows. Most are willing to get creative with decor in order to bring the space to life.
Mountain Mist Tent
Photocredit: Jessica Fike Photography
The wedding tent is a new addition to Wisp Resort, having only been open since 2015. It is located off to the side of the hotel, where few passers-by would interrupt. The tent has windows looking toward the slopes and the golf course. There is also a covered entry that we love decorating for events. The large white tent is air-conditioned, which keeps it comfortable during the warm summer months. Our favorite design aspect: the hanging chandeliers against the draped white ceiling.
Style
Of all the venue options Wisp has to offer, the tent is the most traditional space. The large white space provides a literal blank canvas for couples in choosing their wedding decor.
Formality
This location tends to appeal to clients who want their event to feel elegant and sophisticated. While the word tent may conjure more casual visions, one look at the space will convince you it is perfect for a black-tie affair. The Wedding Tent is the most traditionally formal venue space at Wisp Resort.
Ideal Client
Clients are drawn to the tent for the gorgeous views, both inside and out. It's a perfect choice for those wanting a formal and traditional feel for their big day.
Sundown Yurt Village
Photocredit: Jessica Fike Photography
Here at Fête, the concept of a Yurt was new to us with Wisp's introduction of this venue option. A Yurt was traditionally a portable, round tent used by Nomads in Central Asia. Ski resorts have adopted the design style across the country. The Wisp has three connected Yurts that they use for weddings. Our favorite design aspect: the circular room with high ceilings featuring a skylight. We love the idea of progressing through the connected buildings, from cocktails, to dinner, to dancing. Keep in mind that the yurts are the smallest of the venue options, and may not work for clients with large guest counts.
Style
The wooden trellis surrounding the room is a traditional design feature of a Yurt, and makes it a choice for couples wanting a rustic garden feel for their wedding. There are several distinctive touches in the room’s decor, but it is not so stylized as to limit options for styling your event.
Formality
The Yurts put you in the mind of the ideal Sunday brunch location. The smaller size can create a more intimate feel for the event. The trellis, skylight, and fixtures create a space that is attractive, but not black-tie formal.
Ideal Client
If glamping is your ideal vacation, the Yurts are the choice for you. The circular shape and trellised walls create a trendy and unique space for couples truly looking "outside the box" for their event.
If you are interested in hosting your wedding or event at Wisp, please contact Katie at 301-387-4000. If you’re interested in having Farmhouse Fete provide your floral design or style the space, contact us at 301-750-6790 or info@farmhousefete.com.
