Nestled along the banks of Fort Loudoun Lake and just a short drive from Knoxville, Lenoir City, Tennessee, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm away from the hustle & bustle of the big city. There are plenty of things to do and see before or after your next event at The Venue at Lenoir City. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing weekend getaway, Lenoir City has something for everyone.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Fort Loudoun Lake
Spanning approximately 14,600 acres, Fort Loudoun Lake is a haven for water enthusiasts. Popular activities include bass fishing (including several tournaments), boating, kayaking, and birdwatching. The lake's shoreline offers numerous spots for picnicking and enjoying scenic views. ​There are even restaurants accessible by boat.

Lenoir City Park
Located at 6707 City Park Drive, this 33-acre park on Fort Loudoun Lake provides a range of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, tennis courts, a beach volleyball court, playgrounds, picnic shelters, a fishing pier, a dog park, a boat ramp and dock, and restroom facilities.
The park also hosts free events like "Movies in the Park" during the summer months and “Rockin’ the Docks,” the 4th of July music & fireworks festival. The park is also home to “Festival of Friends,” a free community event that provides a day of food and water-based fun for individuals with disabilities.

Town Creek Greenway
For those who prefer land-based activities, the Town Creek Greenway offers a 1.7-mile “easy” trail perfect for walking, jogging, or biking and takes an average of about an hour to complete. It is also a popular trail for birding. The trail meanders through natural landscapes along a stream. It offers a good mix of shade and sunlight, providing a peaceful retreat within the city. ​


HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL SITES

Lenoir City Museum
Situated in a restored Victorian cottage from 1890, the Lenoir City Museum showcases artifacts and exhibits detailing the city's history from the early 19th century through the Civil War and into the 20th century. It's a must-visit for history buffs. ​ Lenoir City Museum documents Lenoir City’s past from its settlement by Major William B. Lenoir in the early 1800’s, through the arrival of the railroad at Lenoir’s Station (as it was known until the 1900’s), through the Civil War, and into the city’s charter in 1907.

The museum also highlights Lenoir City’s commercial and industrial growth, particularly its premier 20th century industry, the Lenoir Car Works. The City’s social, religious and educational development is traced, as well as its role in U.S. military history in the twentieth century.
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This Victorian cottage, designed by Baumann and Baumann of Knoxville, was built in the Eastlake style, with decorative oak wainscoting and crown molding on the interior. In 1982, the Lenoir City Company building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Lenoir Cotton Mill
One of the city's oldest structures, the Lenoir Cotton Mill dates back to the early 1800s. Though partially in ruins, it stands as a testament to the area's industrial past and is a point of interest for those exploring local history.

The Lenoir Cotton Mill, built about 1843, was one of a series of mills in the community along Town Creek, and the only one surviving, though in a ruinous state. They were built by William Ballard Lenoir, a prosperous farmer, manufacturer, miller, land surveyor, and merchant who settled here in 1810. His entire estate remained intact following his death in 1852, and in 1890 was taken over by a development company, the Lenoir City Company, who laid out the present town. At that time there were 1000 spindles operated in the mill. It was later converted to a grain mill, and is now owned by the city and has been unused for many years.

LOCAL FLAVORS

Tennessee Valley Winery
Located just outside Lenoir City, this family-owned winery offers tastings of their locally produced and award-winning wines. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon sampling wines and taking in views of the surrounding vineyards. ​The winery also hosts many outdoor events during warmer weather months.

Calhoun’s at the Marina
This serene, dockside location sits on the edge of one of Tennessee’s largest marinas, just above Ft. Loudon Dam. A peaceful place for your next southern comfort meal, indoor seating offers a relaxing atmosphere and outdoor seating on our covered decks offer a beautiful view of Ft. Loudon Lake. Live entertainment plays on the “Tiki Hut” deck on select nights (weather permitting).

Master Donuts
A must-visit for donut connoisseurs. Baked fresh daily, the mouth-watering variety of donuts, fritters, turnovers, cinnamon rolls and other baked goods will have you visiting again and again. If the goodies don’t hook you, the friendly staff will. It’s even open seven days a week!

Aubrey’s Lenoir City
Aubrey’s offers some of the most fresh & delicious foods in Eastern Tennessee from their farm fresh vegetables to home-style favorites, it’s their mission to show you a level of hospitality and comfort you might simply not be used to. Try one of their tantalizing tastes like the Fresh and Famous Strawberry Salad, Grilled Salmon Tacos, Buttermilk Fried Chicken and Blackened Rattlesnake Pasta. Pair up with the perfect partner from their gi-nourmous selection of draught beer and perfect wines and finish off with one of their mouth watering sweet treats. Let’s see that menu!

Ugly Mug Coffee
Ugly Mug LC, East Tennessee is a home to a coffeehouse unique in many ways - from its location in a business hub for car sales to the fact that it's playing a part in the revitalization of Historic Downtown Lenoir City. Ugly Mug LC is a space fit for lounging with friends, enjoying a cuppa joe with a panini and a good book, or business networking.

La Michoacana
If you’re seeking sweet treats, look no further than La Michoacana. La Michoacana shares the tradition of flavor exploration with those that matter the most. Explore their wide variety of paletas from the smoothness of their Arroz con Leche, to the endless creaminess of their Coco CoolStix Bolis and the sweet & spicy notes of their Mangonada cups.
 
SHOPPING, ENTERTAINMENT & EXPERIENCES

Downtown Broadway Street
Historic downtown Lenoir City offers a variety of locally-owned shops and boutiques along Broadway Street. From home décor at The Lacy and women's fashion at Sadie's, to shopping with local artists and vendors and Markets on Broadway and the Sparkly Pig, visitors can enjoy a leisurely shopping experience in a charming setting.

East Tennessee Axe Throwing
East Tennessee Axe Throwing takes fun to the next level with two cutting-edge digital lanes, where you can project thrilling games onto the boards, adding an extra layer of excitement to your experience. Take a break from the action and explore their carefully curated selection of craft and domestic beers, perfect for unwinding and socializing with friends and family. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time thrower, a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff ensure an unforgettable time for everyone.

Tranquility Spa & Wellness
The best journey in life is the journey back to yourself. Take a well-deserved break from the stresses of your busy day to focus on you. The Tranquility Spa and Wellness team are unique in their expertise of massage modalities and skin care treatments, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. With a full-range of professional treatments and state-of-the-art facilities, Tranquility Spa and Wellness is the ultimate rejuvenating and relaxing experience.

Last Call Theater Company
Community theater is alive and well in historic downtown Lenoir City. Producing between 3-4 shows a year since 2017, this popular group offers affordable season tickets and both evening and matinee performances. For its 2025 season schedule and tickets, click here.

Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, delving into local history, or enjoying the flavors, attractions or shopping of the city, Lenoir City provides a welcoming and enriching weekend destination. Its blend of natural beauty and cultural offerings ensures that every visitor finds something to cherish. For more ideas, check out Visit Loudon County's website.

#planning
#downtime

When it comes to nonprofit fundraising banquets, a traditional dinner with speeches and a silent auction can be effective, but it can seem like everyone is doing them. Many of today’s donors crave unique experiences that feel meaningful, fun, and engaging. So how do you make your next banquet unforgettable and profitable?

Tips for Any Fundraising Banquet:

• Keep it short, sweet, and mission focused. Don’t drag out the program.
• Incorporate storytelling. Real stories of impact resonate more than facts and figures.
• Use multiple donation channels. QR codes, text-to-donate (Venmo, Paypal, etc.), and pledge cards should all be available. Also, be prepared to take credit cards.
• Follow up! Always thank the attendees and share how much was raised—and how it will be used.

Here are twelve creative fundraising banquet ideas to spice things up and leave your guests excited to come back next year:

1. Mission-Themed Immersive Dinner
Bring your cause to life through a fully immersive evening. For example:

• A nonprofit focused on clean water access could host a banquet set in a mock village, where guests “travel” through the challenges of water collection before sitting down to a meal inspired by the cultures they are helping.
• A nonprofit focused on ending DUIs could work with local law enforcement to bring in a DUI simulator and allow guests to personally experience the diminished driving capacity caused by too much to drink.
• An animal rescue nonprofit could bring in some of its current furry residents to meet the guests. Who knows? One or two might even find homes!

2. “Dine in the Dark” Experience
Invite guests to dine blindfolded to simulate visual impairment and bring awareness to disabilities or sensory differences. Partner with a local chef to create a multi-course meal that plays on smell, texture, and taste. End with testimonials and a fundraising call-to-action.

3. Decades Night Gala
Let your guests choose a favorite decade (Roaring ‘20s, Groovy ‘70s, or Totally ‘80s) and encourage them to go all out and dress the part. Theme the music, decor, and menu accordingly. Add a costume contest, dance contest, etc. and offer decade-themed prizes. Take it a step further and auction off items from the featured decade.

4. Mystery Dinner Theatre
Turn your banquet into an interactive whodunit! Hire local actors – or better yet, get your board members - to perform a murder mystery throughout the evening. Guests can purchase clues or “bribe” characters for hints—with all proceeds going to your cause.

5. Chef’s Table Showcase
Partner with several local chefs, restaurants or caterers, who each prepare a signature tasting course – a dish they are known for. Use these signature dishes as “teasers” to market the event. Guests rotate tables between courses, experiencing new flavors and meeting new people. Add another fundraising element by including a “top chef” voting component, where guests pay a small fee to vote for their favorite chef. Add a live auction for private dinners with the chefs.

6. Casino Night
Include casino games in your fundraising banquet – a sure way to keep guests entertained and to raise more money! Guests can “purchase” chips from the nonprofit to play various casino games. Instead of winning cash at the tables, players win tickets which are used to raffle off donated prizes.

7. Art Auction & Live Creation
Bring in local artists to create pieces live during the event. Guests can watch the process and bid on the final pieces before the night ends. This works beautifully for art- or community-based nonprofits and helps support local talent. Make it a day-long affair and include a youth art component earlier in the day to highlight local youth in the arts and draw in more families.

8. Global Banquet Passport
For international nonprofits, celebrate cuisine from various cultures throughout the world by turning your event into a " culinary tour of the globe." Each food station represents a different country, with matching decor, music, and short stories and/or illustrations about how your nonprofit’s work spans the globe.

9. “Pay What You Feel” Banquet
Instead of setting a ticket price, ask guests to donate whatever they feel the experience was worth—at the end of the night. It’s bold, it’s honest, and it can spark some serious generosity when paired with compelling storytelling. Worst-case scenario, you’ve educated some guests about the important work and compelling impacts of your nonprofit.

10. Impact Banquet with Real-Time Giving
Set a fundraising goal and track live donations throughout the evening on a big screen. When milestones are ahit, trigger fun surprises: unlock dessert, reveal a donor match, or queue up a live performance.

11. Benefit Concert
Tap board members, volunteers and sponsors for contacts to bring in a local celebrity who has a heart for the work of your organization. Highlight the celebrity as featured musical entertainment and leverage the appearance in your advance marketing. Allow “tip jars” at the stage, with proceeds going to the nonprofit. If the celebrity plays a certain style of music, the food and décor can be themed around it. For example, a country artist could mean a country-western theme with a barbecue dinner.

12. Volunteer-Celebration Banquet
Flip the script and throw a banquet honoring your volunteers and top supporters. Let the community nominate “unsung heroes” for awards. Keep the giving optional but heartfelt. This turns your event into a celebration with an even broader impact.

When it’s all said and done, the best fundraising banquets aren't just about raising money—they're about deepening connections. With a little creativity, your next event can be more than just a dinner—it can be an experience that your guests will remember, talk about, and support again and again. Maybe they’ll even bring others along next time! 

#planning
#fundraising banquets
#nonprofits

The first piece of advice is also the easiest and most convenient route for the guest…shop our décor closets! From various size cylinder and Eiffel vases - to feathers, lanterns and metallic & crystal candlesticks - The Venue at Lenoir City just might have the décor options on-site to help execute your vision. Many venues offer the option of décor closets, so be sure to ask.

But if you are more of a DIY person, there are lots of affordable ways to create a memorable atmosphere for your event. With DIY and mixed elements, remember that a consistent color palette will make everything look cohesive and intentional. Here are just a few ideas:

1. String Lights & Fairy Lights (The Venue maintains a large stock of these since they are so on-trend at the moment.)

• Instantly magical and super affordable.
• Use them in centerpieces, on buffet lines, or even intertwined with greenery in runners.
• Don’t want to go with the classic white, elegant look? They can be purchased in pretty much any color in to match your theme.
• Opt for battery-operated versions for flexibility.

2. DIY Centerpieces

• Avoid mason jars if possible, as they are considered dated. (But never fear! Every trend comes back around.)
• Instead, opt for thrifted vases, or painted wine bottles for great bases.
• Fill with candles, fairy lights, or seasonal (faux or real) greenery.
• Wildflowers or supermarket blooms can be arranged the day before with friends! Or, The Venue’s staff is happy to help construct simple arrangements if the flowers are delivered to us in advance.

3. Opt for Greenery

• Eucalyptus, ivy, and ferns are cost-effective and neutral-yet-elegant.
• Use as table runners, buffet decor, or backdrops. Wrap a tent frame or columns with greenery to create intimate spaces.
• Bonus: they last longer and are easy to prep. Also, some of the faux versions available today look real and can be re-used for future occasions.

4. Candles, Candles, Candles

• Flameless (LED) options are safe and reusable. Most venues prohibit open flames.
• Use a mix of pillar candles, tealights, and votives.
• Group them for impact on tables or along walkways.

5. DIY Signage

• Use chalkboards, wood pallets, or acrylic pages.
• Write welcome messages, schedules, or quotes. Incorporate clever plays on words to give your guests a chuckle!
• Hand-lettering is fine with neat or unique hand-writing, or stencils work great.

6. Thrift & Borrow

• Ask friends or family if they have items you can borrow (vases, candleholders, lanterns, easels, etc.).
• Check local thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, or Buy Nothing groups. You'd be amazed at the decor people give away!
• You can often find wedding decor from other couples online for a steal.

7. Nature as Decor

• Incorporate pinecones, driftwood, seashells, or autumn leaves depending on your season or setting.
• Incorporate floral or greenery clippings from your own garden...or from a friend's!
• Perfect for natural, rustic themes or outdoor events.

8. Play Up Venue’s Assets

• Take advantage of beautiful gardens, architectural features and unique materials (brick, wood, marble, etc.).
• Create focal points around what’s already there. For example, The Venue at Lenoir City features a beautiful dual-sided fireplace that creates a gorgeous backdrop.
• Saves tons on decor costs.

Additional Things to Consider
Most venues do not allow glitter, confetti (of any size), bird seed, rice, or other materials that tend to spread, are difficult to clean or harmful to animals, or tend to “live” in the venue for weeks after an event. Adhesives can also be an issue and are typically not allowed to be used on surfaces such as walls and moldings. Don’t assume that just because an adhesive is marketed as “damage free” that it will be allowed. Be sure to check with your venue on their policies to avoid the potential loss of a damage deposit.
 
Knowing your venue’s policies before embarking on your décor plan allows you to be creative and think outside the box, while ensuring the rules are being followed. While décor is an important component of most events, it doesn’t have to break your budget to make a huge impact.

#decorating
​#planning

When we think of weddings, we might picture reflections of culture, tradition, and personal values. In recent years, however, the script has evolved. Couples are now personalizing their celebrations with modern tastes and trends, foregoing long-held traditions in favor of creating new ones, and even adding more interactive elements to their celebrations (think entry dances and flower grandmas!). While the basic tenets of respect and courtesy remain timeless, modern-day wedding etiquette has adapted to reflect changing social norms and digital realities. Here are some ideas of what’s expected — and what’s optional — in today’s wedding world.

1. Invitations: Paper, Digital, or Both?
Etiquette Then: Formal, printed invitations sent via mail.
Etiquette Now: Digital invitations and wedding websites are widely accepted and often encouraged — especially for save-the-dates, RSVPs, and updates. Not only does going digital save some of that precious and often limited wedding budget, it’s also a more efficient and timely method of communicating with your guests. That said, formal paper invitations are still appreciated for traditional or larger weddings. The key is consistency and clarity.
Pro Tip: Make sure your digital invites include clear links, timelines, dress codes, and directions. Other helpful information to include might be a list of local hotels, restaurants and attractions, introductions of your bridal party, and even a brief, heartfelt story of how the couple met. If going fully digital, consider sending printed invites to older guests or those who might be less tech-savvy.

2. The Guest List: Intentional and Inclusive
Modern Reality: Guest lists are often smaller, more curated, and focused on those who truly matter to the couple, especially with the rise of micro-weddings. Designing intimate celebrations can often stretch the budget while still creating memorable and meaningful wedding related events.
New Norms:

• Don’t assume a plus-one unless specified.
• Kids may or may not be invited — and that’s okay.
• Respect RSVP deadlines — and respond promptly.

Etiquette Tip: If you're not inviting someone, don’t apologize profusely. A simple “We’re keeping it intimate” is perfectly acceptable.

3. Registry Rules: Cash, Experiences, and Charity
Gone are the days when blenders and china ruled the registry. Today, couples are choosing:

• Honeymoon or travel funds
• Down payment contributions
• Donations to charity
• Subscription services or experiences

The Etiquette: It’s fine to digitally share your registry, but avoid putting it directly on your formal invite. Use a wedding website instead.

4. Dress Code: Clear and Considerate
With themed weddings and varying levels of formality, clear dress code guidance is crucial. Avoid vague terms like “dressy casual” and offer examples or even Pinterest boards if possible.
Modern Tip: If you’re planning an outdoor or nontraditional event, give your guests a heads-up about terrain, temperature, or footwear needs.

5. Social Media: Snap Respectfully
For Guests:

• Always respect an “unplugged” ceremony request.
• Don’t post photos of the couple before they do.
• Tag carefully and ask before sharing anything intimate.

For Couples:

• Communicate your social media preferences ahead of time — on signage, invites, or announcements.
• If you're okay with posts, consider creating a wedding hashtag. Be super creative with your hashtag and you might even go viral!

6. Speeches and Toasts: Keep It Classy
Whether it’s the best man, maid of honor, or the couple themselves, speeches should be heartfelt, inclusive, and no longer than 5 minutes. Inside jokes, awkward stories, or ex-mentions? Best left unsaid.

7. Inclusivity and Personalization
Modern etiquette honors all traditions and relationship styles. That means:

• Diverse ceremony traditions (cultural, spiritual, or blended)
• Inclusive wording like “partners” or “spouses” when addressing groups

It’s not just about being politically correct — it’s about making everyone feel welcomed and valued.

8. Thank-You Notes: Old-School Courtesy Still Rules
This is one area where tradition most definitely rules the day. No matter how modern your wedding is, handwritten (or at least personalized) thank-you notes are non-negotiable. Aim to send them within 3 months of the big day — sooner if possible.

Modern wedding etiquette is less about rigid rules and more about intentionality, communication, and respect. Whether you're eloping to Vegas, throwing a backyard bash, or hosting a black-tie gala, the golden rule still applies: make your guests feel welcomed appreciated, and be gracious in return. At its heart, etiquette is about love — and what better time to honor that than on your wedding day?

#wedding
​#planning

Planning a well-executed and meaningful corporate event requires meticulous preparation, top-notch organizational skills, admirable patience, and a dash of creativity. Whether arranging a conference, a product launch, or a leadership retreat, the key to its success lies in careful and thorough planning and communication. This checklist hits the highlights of ensuring your corporate event is seamless and impactful.

• Define Your Goals and Objectives

Determine the purpose of your event before diving into the logistics. Are you looking to boost employee morale, launch a new product, or strengthen client relationships? Clearly defining your goals will help shape your event’s structure, content, and budget.

• Establish a Budget

Your budget dictates many aspects of the event, including venue selection, catering, entertainment, speakers & panelists, and promotional materials. Outline all potential expenses and pre-allocate funds to avoid overspending while also ensuring a quality experience for attendees. But remember, a budget is just a roadmap. Don't be afraid to adjust as real-time quotes are received in order to stay within your bottom line total figure.

• Select the Right Venue

The venue sets the tone for your event. Consider factors such as location, capacity, accessibility, available amenities, and reputation for service. Perhaps you’d like to offer both in-person and virtual attendance options? Then make sure the venue you select can accommodate both formats. Most venues, including The Venue at Lenoir City, are happy to book a tour and discuss preliminary details with you and/or your team. Then, you can feel comfortable booking in advance to secure your preferred venue and ensure it aligns with your event’s budget, theme and objectives.

• Create a Timeline and Checklist

Develop a detailed timeline or “run of show,” mapping out all major milestones, before, during, and after the event. Examples include vendor bookings, save-the-date and invitation distribution, the program itself, load-in/load-out details, and even thank-you notes. A checklist will keep your planning process organized and prevent last-minute oversights that can cause hiccups or unnecessary stress.

• Organize Logistics

Arrange for essential services such as audiovisual equipment, transportation, catering, sponsorships, etc.. Many venues, including The Venue at Lenoir City, are happy to assist with providing or procuring these services on your behalf. Special needs, such as handicapped parking & accessibility or dietary restrictions should be considered and accommodated during this step as well. Confirm all vendor contracts well in advance and conduct a walkthrough of the venue to ensure all logistics are in place.

• Develop an Engaging Program

Your event’s agenda should be informative and engaging. Plan a mix of keynote speakers, interactive sessions or activities, and networking opportunities to keep attendees interested. Offering door prizes is a sure way to create energy in the room. Be sure to allow for adequate breaks. Consider incorporating technology, such as live polling or event apps, to enhance engagement.

• Market Your Event

Promote your event through email campaigns, social media, company newsletters or intranet pages, and any other avenues frequently used to disseminate information throughout company or within the target attendee pool. The details should be easily accessible and complete, leaving potential attendees with no questions about who, how, what, where, or why to attend. If the event is open to the public, leverage press releases and digital advertising to reach a wider audience. A well-thought-out marketing strategy ensures maximum attendance and visibility.

• Manage Registrations and Attendee Experience

Use an online event registration platform to streamline sign-ups and collect attendee data. Consider offering early registration incentives to prevent potential attendees from waiting to sign-up at the last minute. On the event day, provide clear signage, welcoming staff, and a well-organized check-in process to ensure a smooth experience.

• Prepare for Contingencies

Unexpected challenges can arise at any event. Have a backup plan for technical failures, weather changes (for outdoor events), and last-minute cancellations. A well thought out contingency plan will help you navigate unforeseen issues efficiently and with as little drama and stress as possible.

• Evaluate and Follow Up

After the event, gather feedback from attendees through surveys or direct conversations. Assess what worked well and identify areas for improvement. Follow up with attendees, send thank-you notes, and share event highlights to maintain engagement and reinforce relationships. Participating vendors – including the venue – will appreciate feedback being shared with them as well so they can only improve going forward.

Final Thoughts
A well-planned corporate event can strengthen company culture, enhance brand visibility, and create meaningful connections. By incorporating this checklist into your planning process, you can execute an event that is not only successful but also leaves a lasting impact on your attendees. Happy planning!

​#Planning