Modern Farm Resort Julep

Written By: Shayna Bigazzi | Issue: 2020/03 - March

There’s a special energy that rolls through the gentle foothills and valleys of Dillard, Georgia, in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Delicately perched in one of these mystical valleys is the area’s newest and most exciting Resort and Wedding Venue, Julep Farms.

This “Modern Farm Resort” is like nowhere else you’ve been.  You can sleep in luxury and gather fresh farm eggs, all in the same day.  Then, pick your own wedding bouquet in their two-acre flower field as the property’s darling miniature ponies look on.  With sweeping views of the rolling hills and mountains, it’s easy to imagine saying, “I do” in one of the picturesque meadows surrounding the Farm.

Some of the farm’s residents include horses, cows, and chickens, to name a few.  If you, like me, are into the four-legged kind of friends, make sure to visit with their “Babydoll Sheep” (yes, that’s a thing!).  These super soft and fluffy creatures are known for their friendliness and docility.  Fun Fact: In textile terms, their fleece is in the 19- to 22-micron range, which means it’s similar to cashmere and can be worn next to the skin without being itchy and uncomfortable. Proving they are much more than just a pretty face!

Once you’ve had your fun frolicking with the animals and marrying the Love of your Life, it’s time to unwind and raise a glass in celebration.

Lucky for you, filling your glass with delicious libations is one of the Julep Bar’s specialties. They have a mix of the classics − think Mint Juleps and Manhattans − as well as a few specialty and signature drinks.  My favorite is the Chipotle Fig Margarita with a combination of Tanteo Chipotle Tequila, Agave Nectar, freshly-squeezed Lemons and Fig Preserves.

After a few drinks on the outside Fireplace Terrace, invite your guests into the generously-sized Social House Private Event Area for dinner and dancing.

The Julep Kitchen’s “New American Cuisine with a decidedly Southern twist” offers up something for everyone, including several health-minded and vegetarian options.  After dinner, twirl with your honey in front of their stacked-stone fireplace as you take your first dance as newlyweds, and then party the night away.

The best way to top off a perfect day at Julep is to enjoy a night-cap under the incredibly starry skies that seem to hang within arm’s reach above the Farm.  If you’re lucky, the fireflies will be glowing as the hum of the cicadas lulls you into an even more relaxed space.  It’s effortless to be mellow here.

On your way out, don’t forget to shop at the beautifully curated Julep Market.  Pick up some of their farm-grown herbs to take home with you and try, as we do, to make this special place last forever in your senses.

You’ll leave better than when you got there!

by Shayna Bigazzi