August 25, 2026
When planning an engagement celebration at The Historic Pace House, a bride envisioned a sophisticated gathering with diverse cuisine options. The three-station format featuring Southern comfort, Northern Italian elegance, and an elegant dessert trio created an experience that honored the occasion while offering guests variety and refinement.
Pace House’s historic charm provided the perfect backdrop. John Awtrey Photography captured every moment, while Avenue Event Design under Don Chestnut’s direction created elegant florals. Dustin Cottrell provided live piano music that elevated the celebration with sophistication. Corks & Caps handled beverage service throughout the evening.
Caprese skewers, prosciutto and fig crostini, and beef Wellington set the tone for a refined evening.
Avenue tapas display with assorted cheeses, tapenade, hummus, roasted cashews, and dried apricots; fried green tomatoes with grilled corn relish and Georgia farm goat cheese; pre-rolled BBQ pork pancakes; mac and cheese; jalapeño cheddar cornbread; and Maryland-style crab cakes with spicy remoulade offered variety and elegance.
Goat cheese ravioli with asparagus and white wine, Tuscan lemon chicken piccata, and baked Norwegian salmon with lemon Dijon aioli provided Mediterranean warmth. Seasonal grilled vegetables, fresh focaccia bread with tomatoes and herbs, plus whipped olive oil and Parmesan completed the station.
Key lime tartlets, raspberry Frangiapane, and pecan tarts allowed guests to choose their preferred sweetness level.
Three distinct stations mean every guest finds multiple dishes they love. Southern comfort, Italian elegance, and diverse desserts work beautifully together. Guests naturally circulate, creating energy and conversation. The variety ensures comfort for different preferences—some prefer lighter appetizers, others seek heartier Italian proteins, and dessert gives personal choice.
Think about station themes: Each station should offer contrast while maintaining coherence. Southern hospitality, Italian elegance, and elegant desserts all work together beautifully.
Include variety: Different proteins, vegetables, and accompaniments allow guests to create complete meals with their own preferences.
Choose experienced partners: Venues like Pace House and teams like Avenue Event Design coordinate multiple stations seamlessly, managing timing and quality so celebrations flow naturally.
Add personal touches: Live piano music, quality florals, and professional service elevate the entire experience.
This elegant engagement celebration showcased what Pace House does beautifully: combine diverse culinary options with intimate sophistication. The three-station format allowed guests to experience Southern comfort, Italian elegance, and refined desserts within one cohesive celebration.
For couples planning celebrations in Atlanta, station-based formats offer flexibility to showcase different cuisines while accommodating various preferences.
Ready to plan your celebration? Contact us to schedule a tour of The Historic Pace House.
Bar Service: Corks & Caps
Venue & Catering: The Historic Pace House / Saratoga Event Group
Florals: Avenue Event Design / Don Chestnut
Pianist: Dustin Cottrell
Photography: John Awtrey
































