Hanover Arts and Activities Center

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktails & Hors d'oeuvres

Buffet Dinner

Dessert & Dancing

Our Wedding

500 South Center StreetAshland, VA 23005

The Hanover Arts &amp; Activities Center is proud to be housed in the historic Ashland Baptist Church building at 500 South Center Street. In the 1840s, the RF&amp;P Railroad Company began to develop the area of Ashland as a resort with mineral springs and a race track. The town grew up around the resort and was incorporated in February of 1858. Protestants in the area shared the Free Church until, in 1858, 15 Baptists began the process of building a church for their congregation. The Ashland Baptist Church was completed in 1859, becoming the second permanent church in the Town of Ashland. Church services were held until June 25, 1967, with the exception of a brief period in 1862, when the church was used as a hospital during the Civil War. The congregation moved to a larger church facility, and the building was purchased by the Ashland Junior Women’s Club to become the Hanover Arts &amp; Activities Center. For more information on the history of the Ashland Baptist Church and the Hanover Arts &amp; Activities Center, visit the Ashland Museum’s website at <a href="http://www.ashlandmuseum.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.ashlandmuseum.org</a>.

Parking spots are available: Along the south side of Cox Lane and at the rear of the building on Duncan Street. The grassy field at the corner of Center and Stebbins Street. Along both sides of Duncan Street and on the west side of Center Street.

Parking at the Center

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Guide to Wedding-Appropriate Casual Attire

What to Wear to a Backyard Wedding

How to Level-Up Casual Wedding Attire

Dress Code

The Inn has 13 guest rooms, dining room, meeting rooms, event and reception facilities. The Inn is conveniently located in historic Ashland, Virginia. Approximately 15 minutes north of downtown Richmond. The guest rooms offer all of the modern amenities. The rooms include wireless access, flat screen tv's, computer modem hookups,&nbsp;hair driers, iron/iron board, private baths and breakfast in the dining room is included in your stay. Some rooms have jacuzzi tubs and wet bars.&nbsp;The meeting facilities are quite popular and offer a unique venue in which to conduct business. AV equip available at your request.

The Henry Clay Inn

Located in Ashland and with Greater Richmond Convention Center reachable within 17 miles, Tru By Hilton Ashland, Va has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi and a fitness center. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk. The hotel has family rooms. The hotel offers a buffet or American breakfast. Kings Dominion is 7.6 miles from Tru By Hilton Ashland, Va, while University Stadium is 17 miles from the property. Richmond International Airport is 24 miles away.

Tru by Hilton Ashland

Spread across 20 acres on the site of the Civil War’s Battle of the Yellow Tavern, this hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and on-site golf course. Downtown Richmond is 12 miles away. A cable TV, iPod dock, and view of the grounds are included in the rooms at the Virginia Crossings Hotel &amp; Conference Center. The Virginia Crossings Hotel &amp; Conference Center features an on-site basketball court, volleyball court, and fitness center. Laundry services are also available. Breakfast and lunch are served at The Glen Restaurant, and The Tavern at Virginia Crossing prepares dinner. Richmond International Raceway is 9 miles from the hotel. Kings Dominion Theme Park is a 17-minute drive away.

Virginia Crossings Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Located in Ashland and with Greater Richmond Convention Center reachable within 14 miles, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Richmond Ashland provides free bikes, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a bar. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and a business center. The hotel features an indoor pool and luggage storage space. Kings Dominion is 10 miles from the hotel, while University Stadium is 14 miles away. Richmond International Airport is 21 miles from the property.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Richmond Ashland

Located off I-95 and 3 miles from downtown Ashland. Free Wi-Fi and a daily breakfast are also provided. Cable TV, a microwave and a fridge are found in each colorful room of Country Inn & Suites. A coffee maker and an iron are also included. Guests of the Country Inn are welcome to work out in the fitness room. Books can also be borrowed and taken home from the lending library. The morning breakfast buffet includes a rotating list of hot items along with waffles, fresh fruit and sweet rolls. Freshly baked cookies are served every evening. The Keeble Observatory is 12 minutes from the hotel. Downtown Richmond is less than 14 miles away.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Ashland - Hanover, VA

Travel

After the 2023 Triple Crown Tour of 5,000 miles, the magnificent bronze statue was unveiled on March 30, 2024.This day is officially known as “Secretariat Day.” His permanent location is along the tracks in downtown Ashland.Why Ashland? Ashland was the childhood home of Christopher Chenery who founded Meadow Stable where Secretariat was born, raised, and first trained.&nbsp;

Secretariat Monument

Unforgettable adventures await at Kings Dominion, home to some of the best things to do around Richmond, Virginia. With more than 60 rides, shows, attractions, a kids area, and a waterpark, Kings Dominion has AMAZING fun for everyone.Don’t miss Jungle X-Pedition, an immersive x-perience x-ploring an ancient jungle civilization. Conquer the skies on the world’s tallest and longest launched wing coaster,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/kingsdominion/attractions/rapterra" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rapterra</a>.Find more thrills at our ginormous collection of roller coasters – among the East Coast’s largest at 13 – including Pantherian. Little ones can get their own thrills at Planet Snoopy, featuring the entire Peanuts™ gang.Soak up the sun at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sixflags.com/kingsdominion/soak-city" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Soak City</a>, our 20-acre waterpark included with admission. Have a splashtastic blast with water slides, splash pads, a wave pool, a lazy river, cabanas, and more! Coconut Shores within Soak City offers a mini-wave pool, 45-foot multi-level play structure, and unique dining.Kings Dominion is filled with AMAZING fun for everyone in the family. Don’t miss out on your chance to make unforgettable memories!

Kings Dominion

The Center of the Universe Brewing Company (COTU) began when brothers Chris and Phil Ray began brewing beer in their houses. The hobby turned into an obsession, and the obsession has led them to open up a full production craft brewery in Ashland, Virginia. Located in the heart of Central Virginia, it is affectionately known as “The Center of the Universe.” COTU brews an assortment of ales using only whole ingredients while sticking to the traditional all-natural method of brewing beer.

Center of the Universe Brewing Company

<a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=69905ac69c2415231d939327e5d177d320bb605571b3ec0c40ff2b2ca713ca3cJmltdHM9MTc2Mjk5MjAwMA&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=4&amp;fclid=36b02889-6430-663c-1339-3e2a65fb673d&amp;u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubGV3aXNnaW50ZXIub3JnLw&amp;ntb=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The&nbsp;Lewis&nbsp;Ginter&nbsp;Botanical&nbsp;Garden&nbsp;in&nbsp;Richmond,&nbsp;VA,&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;stunning&nbsp;50-acre&nbsp;garden&nbsp;that&nbsp;features&nbsp;a&nbsp;variety&nbsp;of&nbsp;themed&nbsp;gardens,&nbsp;including&nbsp;the&nbsp;Rose&nbsp;Garden,&nbsp;Butterfly&nbsp;Garden,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Children's&nbsp;Garden.&nbsp;Visitors&nbsp;can&nbsp;enjoy&nbsp;beautiful&nbsp;landscapes,&nbsp;seasonal&nbsp;displays,&nbsp;and&nbsp;interactive&nbsp;exhibits&nbsp;that&nbsp;educate&nbsp;about&nbsp;horticulture&nbsp;and&nbsp;ecology.&nbsp;The&nbsp;garden&nbsp;is&nbsp;known&nbsp;for&nbsp;its&nbsp;classical&nbsp;domed&nbsp;conservatory,&nbsp;which&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;unique&nbsp;feature&nbsp;in&nbsp;the&nbsp;mid-Atlantic&nbsp;region.&nbsp;It&nbsp;offers&nbsp;year-round&nbsp;events,&nbsp;including&nbsp;art&nbsp;exhibits&nbsp;and&nbsp;holiday&nbsp;light&nbsp;shows,&nbsp;making&nbsp;it&nbsp;a&nbsp;popular&nbsp;destination&nbsp;for&nbsp;both&nbsp;locals&nbsp;and&nbsp;tourists.</a>

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

<a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=be50df94a226ca4af6e714fe1ae23521db642ebee454fcf9d15e37ee9807106aJmltdHM9MTc2Mjk5MjAwMA&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=4&amp;fclid=36b02889-6430-663c-1339-3e2a65fb673d&amp;psq=Virginia+Museum+of+Fine+Arts&amp;u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly92bWZhLm11c2V1bS8&amp;ntb=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Experience a world-class art museum with hometown hospitality. The Virginia&nbsp;Museum&nbsp;of&nbsp;Fine Arts&nbsp;houses a remarkable permanent collection of more than 50,000 works of art from almost every major world culture.</a>

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

Maymont is a 100-acre green space in the heart of Richmond, Virginia. We welcome everyone to explore our spectacular Gilded Age mansion, beautiful curated gardens, immersive nature center, interactive farm and rescued animal habitats—and to find moments of wonder while you wander our rolling hills.

Maymont

Established in 1847, Hollywood Cemetery is a private, non-profit, and fully operational cemetery located in Richmond, Virginia. Located on the banks of the James River in the state capital of Virginia, the cemetery spans 135 acres of valleys, hills, and stately trees. Its natural and architectural beauty sets it apart from the grid-like layout of modern cemeteries and its natural beauty has earned its recognition as a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hollywoodcemetery.org/about/arboretum" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">registered arboretum</a>.Hollywood Cemetery has been a fully operational cemetery since the 19th century. Numerous burial options are available, including lots, cremation niches, and a scattering garden, so you can take your place in history among presidents, generals, authors, and other famous notables.

Hollywood Cemetery

The&nbsp;Richmond Flying Squirrels&nbsp;are a&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minor_League_Baseball" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Minor League Baseball</a>&nbsp;team based in&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richmond,_Virginia" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Richmond, Virginia</a>. The team, which is a part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastern_League_(1938%E2%80%93present)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eastern League</a>, is the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Double-A_(baseball)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Double-A</a>&nbsp;affiliate of the&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Francisco_Giants" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">San Francisco Giants</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_League_Baseball" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">major league</a>&nbsp;club, and plays at Carmax Park, the newly developed stadium next to their old ground, the Diamond. The Flying Squirrels have been affiliated with the Giants since 2010, making it the longest-running active affiliation in the Giants organization among teams not owned by the Giants.

Richmond Flying Squirrels

The Science Museum of Virginia is a catalyst for inspiration, a place that sparks curiosity and generates ideas. Through hundreds of experiential exhibits, awe-inspiring artifacts and interactive technologies, the Museum presents dynamic programming to hundreds of thousands of guests each year. The Science Museum features permanent hands-on exhibits about wellness, innovation and speed—to name a few—and hosts touring exhibitions from around the world. At 76 feet, The Dome&nbsp;features&nbsp;the largest theater screen in Virginia and provides guests with the ultimate "you are there" experience. The Science Museum also hosts special events throughout the year, such as overnight adventures, talks, summer camps and more. The Science Museum of Virginia has something for curious-minded guests of all ages!

Science Museum of Virginia

<a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=eb3b969e04ce8bb67dc69a0b0787b91c1c7c95fdc45bee9c7cf8485d53a39331JmltdHM9MTc2Mjk5MjAwMA&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=4&amp;fclid=36b02889-6430-663c-1339-3e2a65fb673d&amp;u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ3JlZW50b3AuY29tLw&amp;ntb=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Green&nbsp;Top&nbsp;Sporting&nbsp;Goods&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;well-established&nbsp;sporting&nbsp;goods&nbsp;retailer&nbsp;in&nbsp;Richmond,&nbsp;Virginia,&nbsp;established&nbsp;in&nbsp;1947.&nbsp;It&nbsp;has&nbsp;become&nbsp;a&nbsp;trusted&nbsp;source&nbsp;for&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=eb3b969e04ce8bb67dc69a0b0787b91c1c7c95fdc45bee9c7cf8485d53a39331JmltdHM9MTc2Mjk5MjAwMA&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=4&amp;fclid=36b02889-6430-663c-1339-3e2a65fb673d&amp;u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ3JlZW50b3AuY29tLw&amp;ntb=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hunting,&nbsp;fishing,&nbsp;and&nbsp;outdoor&nbsp;gear,&nbsp;offering&nbsp;a&nbsp;wide&nbsp;range&nbsp;of&nbsp;products&nbsp;including&nbsp;firearms,&nbsp;ammunition,&nbsp;and&nbsp;outdoor&nbsp;equipment.&nbsp;The&nbsp;store&nbsp;has&nbsp;a&nbsp;rich&nbsp;history&nbsp;and&nbsp;is&nbsp;known&nbsp;for&nbsp;its&nbsp;knowledgeable&nbsp;staff&nbsp;and&nbsp;commitment&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;outdoor&nbsp;lifestyle.&nbsp;Green&nbsp;Top&nbsp;also&nbsp;hosts&nbsp;Virginia's&nbsp;largest&nbsp;Outdoor&nbsp;Expo&nbsp;each&nbsp;October,&nbsp;celebrating&nbsp;its&nbsp;loyal&nbsp;customers&nbsp;and&nbsp;showcasing&nbsp;popular&nbsp;brands&nbsp;and&nbsp;products.&nbsp;</a>

Jennifer & Nick

Jennifer & Nick

Photos