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Saturday October 11, 2025
Lake Lure, NC, USA
131 days 19 hrs 34 mins
Story
We first met during the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020 on the dating app Match. We had just started talking on the app right before the shutdown orders were issued when it was still just going to be for two weeks.
We found that we had a mutual love of reading and a good story told, our personalities fit together like the pieces of a puzzle. While we were initially going to wait until the lockdown was over to meet in person after a month of talking with no end in sight we decided to give it a shot, and ever since we laid eyes on each other we have been inseparable.
Tidbits
How did you first meet?
Aaron reached out and asked just the right question. If your wondering what the right question was for Felicia, it was what book do you want to read next ;)
Who made the first move? How?
Felicia made the first move. When she kissed Aaron when we first met in person ;)
What was your most memorable date?
We spent our first vacation together in a small tourist-trap town in Georgia. The hotel clerk suggested an overlook where we could watch the sunset.
So we got some takeout from a hole-in-the-wall Mexican place, brought a bottle of wine, and enjoyed a truly beautiful and peaceful sunset sitting together at a mountain overlook cuddled up on a picnic bench and watching the sunset paint the mountains.
What's your favorite activity together?
Cuddling up under a warm blanket with some hot tea and a good book.
Where are you going for your honeymoon?
On a trans-Atlantic cruise from Rome to New York seeing a good amount of the Mediterranean along the way!!
What's the best meal you have eaten together?
We went out for Felicia's 35th birthday to a restaurant called Supperland. It is a quaint church that has been converted into a restaurant, not only was the decor amazing with the open-fire brick ovens in the kitchen visible but the food was by far the best we have ever had together, and we can't resist going back at least once a year.
Travel
Getting In
If coming from a long distance, we recommend flying into Asheville and driving down to Lake Lure for ~65 minutes. If coming from the NC or SC area, it would be faster to just drive to the venue. Please note that due to Hurricane Helin, the only road into the town open is 74 to Highway 9 along the border with SC.
Getting aground
This is a very small mountain town with no public transportation. We would advise you to bring a car or rent one in Asheville if you want to explore more of the surrounding area, as it is a mile walk from the Inn to downtown Chimney Rock. Rideshare service will be non-existent. Due to damage from Hurricane Helian, access to the town of Chimney Rock may be restricted at the time of the event.
Mid October is peak leaf season in Lake Lure.
Please arrange your lodging as soon as possible. As this time of year has the most tourists, you will need to book quickly for the best rates and availability.
The 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa, Memorial Highway, Lake Lure, NC, USA
We have a room block at the Lake Lure Inn and Spa with a 10% discount. We encourage you to book as soon as you can, to ensure availability. Please call the hotel and let them know you are a part of the Powers-Ratcliffe wedding to book! Do not attempt to book a room online, as you will not get the block or the discount.
If you are interested in the hotel's brunch on Sunday morning for ~$25, please have the front desk note it on your reservation to secure your spot. The Bride and Groom will be in attendance.
Recommended Restaurants
Things to do in Lake Lure/Chimney Rock
Explore Downtown Chimney Rock
Due to Hurricane Helene, access may not be available. Check only to confirm close to the event to verify.
Side Quest Vacations
If you would like help finding different accommodations you can use the Best Man's travel agency Side Quest Vacations to help you find a good booking nearby.
For Our Guests: Up to 25% off
For Our Guests: Up to 25% off
All guests receive up to 25% off car rentals. Why not extend your visit and enjoy your trip beyond our big day!
Provided by
Accommodations
Looking for a place to stay nearby? We've added some hotel recommendations to make your visit as comfortable and convenient as possible!
Schedule
Registry
Your presence is enough of a present to us. But for those who are stubborn, we've put together a wish list to help you out. ;)
Q & A
For all our friends and family who have lots of questions, please check out our Q & A first!
What Happened in 2024?
Our wedding was supposed to be on October 12th, 2024, but Hurricane Helene heavily damaged Western North Carolina and forced us to postpone our happy celebration with our extended family and friends to 2025. We held an extremely small ceremony in Aaron's aunt Karla's church to legally get married on our planned date, but as we could not celebrate with all of you, we are holding our reception on our 1st anniversary so we all can celebrate together.
When is the RSVP deadline?
Please RSVP by the end of May, so we can have an accurate headcount. :)
Can I bring a date?
You are welcome to bring your spouse or one guest.
Are kids welcome?
As much as we love your little ones, we will not be including them in the ceremony or reception. Leave your kids at home and enjoy a good party weekend!
What will the weather be like?
Welcome to Western North Carolina, all of you out-of-towners! During the day, the weather in Lake Lure should be beautiful, averaging 60-73 degrees, but will get chilly at night say 40-60. Also as we will be in a valley the sun sets early say 6-7. Please bring some warm layers for the evening, we don't want anyone freezing.
Where should I park?
All events will be held at the Lake Lure Inn and Spa, please park there.
What should I wear?
Please see our Schedule for the dress code.
Formal Attire
Women: Floor Length Gown, Dressy Cocktail Dress or Fancy Pantsuit
Men: Formal Dark Suit, Jacket, and Tie required.
Is the wedding indoors or outdoors?
Our cocktail hour is outdoors, but our reception will be at an indoor/outdoor space at the Inn.
What kind of shoes should/shouldn't I wear?
You will have to walk a few yards over uneven grass to get to the setting at the ceremony.
Is it okay to take pictures with our phones and cameras during the wedding?
Yes! We would love for you to take photos of the reception and share them on our app.
However, please refrain from blocking the professional photographer's pictures.
Whom should I call with questions?
Please email us at ratcliffepowers@gmail.com with any questions you might have and let us know if you would prefer a call back with the answer.
Wedding Party
Get the app
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