The Reserve at Dancing Elk Ranch
For the couple looking for an inspiring and versatile venue space, wanting to enjoy the escape and luxury of a destination wedding without leaving South Texas, look no further than The Reserve at Dancing Elk Ranch. Just off highway 37 in Mathis, Texas, this brand new venue is about to put South Texas on the map, offering couples an all-out experience that will make memories for a lifetime.
Set amidst a picturesque hill country style 1500 acre ranch owned by Neurosurgeon Dr. Mathew Alexander, The Reserve at Dancing Elk boasts a litany of amenities that will capture the attention of not only brides, but grooms as well! Dr. Alexander admits that everything Dancing Elk has becoming is no accident. He purchased this land six years ago with the ultimate vision to make this an iconic wedding destination venue unlike any other.
The Reserve at Dancing Elk Ranch is not a location that can be fully appreciated in photos. You truly have to visit to take it all in, and I am certain it will leave an impression on you. The Reserve boasts a jaw-dropping 16,000 square feet of absolute style and elegance. Overhead, exposed wood beams offer a dramatic effect in the 30 foot ceilings. The entire space is bathed in gorgeous natural light, and all around there are touches of elegance and detail that create a sophisticated environment. What I loved most was that the space did not dictate the style. Any vision could be completed due to the versatility of the room whether the bride desires a rustic elegance or more modern theme. This space can comfortably seat 700 people with 2 full-service bars, a full kitchen, huge dance floor and even space for a live band on stage to boot. The Reserve can handle it all. Despite its massive size, even an intimate wedding could flourish and not be drowned out. This is a location that can completely transform to fit any size and style.
Through massive 12-foot double doors, a bride can make a breathtaking walk down the aisle onto the open-air cathedral-style ceremony patio. Simple and understated with a gorgeous vaulted ceiling and stone pillars, 250 guests can be seated comfortably with all of the appeal of the outdoors and the comfort of shade from our Texas sun. The imagination runs wild with the possibilities of how to decorate for a breathtakingly romantic set up in this unique ceremony space day or night.
The team here is extraordinary, offering a chance for couples to take creative initiative from menu to set up to entertainment. Guided by the expertise of event coordinator and gourmet chef, Steven Dienda, couples won’t be handed a limited menu of items to choose from. Instead, Steven will cater to unique taste buds, whether it be Southern comfort food or high-end fare. He is willing and able to create and deliver any marvelous spread your heart desires to meet your budget and tastes. Kristin Scott is the main event coordinator who will be your wedding guru at The Reserve, guiding you each step of the way and leaving no detail unfinished. Her husband, Jordan Scott, is the ranch manager and hunting guide – essentially the man’s man of the property. He expertly manages not only the game and wildlife, but also a nationally-recognized breeding program of many species of exotic hooved game, which includes several on the endangered species list.
Did I mention amenities? Where to begin? Well let’s start with the bride. A spacious loft overlooks the reception space – a perfect setup for hair and makeup and a lounge area to make preparation for your grand entrance relaxing and functional. The details in the bridal loft are right out of Pinterest wedding boards and create a very photo-worthy preparation process.
Close family and the wedding party can enjoy three guest quarters on the property. The main lodge serves as the ultimate bachelor pad with pool tables, flat screen TV’s and outdoor barbecue and fire pit. That lodge alone can sleep up to 24. The other two guest lodges provide both family accommodations and a more reserved escape for the honeymooners! Just 8 miles away, additional accommodations are available at a newly built hotel in Mathis.
Surrounding the beautifully landscaped premises are pastures of wild game that will give your destination wedding an exotic touch. Hooved wildlife from around the world, African Zebras, an infamous camel named Seymour, and soon to arrive Giraffes, along with exotic game species like Black buck, Axis deer and of course elk, ram and a herds of White Tail deer, all inhabit the Dancing Elk Ranch. Many of these exotics can be enjoyed by guests up close, while private guided hunts for deer, feral hog, dove and certain exotics can be arranged for an adventurous excursion before or after the wedding. Skeet shoots are a popular event for rehearsal day along with barbecues, outdoor games and fire pits for evening celebrations!
Continuing to describe The Reserve at Dancing Elk simply won’t do it justice. This is a must-see before you make your venue decision. Introductory wedding package rates are to be enjoyed by all 2014 & 2015 events, so contact Kristin or Steven today to discuss your date!
By Kateri Reyes
Photos by Anahi Navarro
The Reserve at Dancing Elk Ranch
313, CR 351 Mathis, TX 78368
Be sure to view them online at:
www.thereserveatdancingelk.com
Phone: 361-946-4812
Email: [email protected]