plantThe Parker Mill

612 E Hampshire Blvd, Whittier, NC 28789

Built in the 1930's, the mill was founded by Samuel Kress (owner of Kress Five & Dime and the S. H. Kress & Co. building in Asheville). The Kress family had owned over 4,000 acres in what's now called the SmokeRise development. They constructed the timber-frame mill to process the native wood to build their large family lodge up the road in 1940.

A few decades later, the entire development was bought by Smoky Mountain Mental Health. The mill was used to teach woodworking skills to community members with special needs before turning into a full production mill, making furniture parts for companies such as Stanley, Kincaid, and Thomasville Furniture. The entire dimension mill ran off a steam system, powered by an outside boiler room with a flawlessly constructed soaring chimney. Many years later, after decades of abandonment, the newest owners have kept this chimney as the focal point of the property's outdoor fireplace.

Throughout the entire recent renovation process, the owners prioritized preservation of the building's historic significance. They hold a strong desire for their guests to appreciate the same breathtaking qualities that they themselves fell in love with upon first glance. Prepare to discover the vast original features which remain well-intact and tastefully highlighted throughout the entire property. From the gorgeous hardwood floors and over-sized barn doors, to the copper roof vents and cart tracks, and even the old pieces introduced into the new spaces, this historical gem will undeniably captivate you!


Transportation to/from our venue will be provided from the following hotels.
Please check back in the future for updates regarding a schedule.

Ride sharing (Uber, Lyft, etc.) is not available in this area. If you plan on driving your own vehicle, please be aware there is no overnight parking at our venue. All vehicles need to be off the premises by midnight.


plantHarrah's Cherokee Resort

787 Casino Dr Cherokee, NC 28719 Click here to book using our wedding block

Thursday Night 05/04 Group Room Rate - $109

Friday Night 05/05 Group Room Rate - $259

If you are notified there are no rooms available for your selected dates, please let us know as we are able to add rooms to our reserved block, and check back again later for discounted prices.


plantFairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

568 Painttown Road Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-0400

Call and mention DeDea / Davis Wedding and use code "DAVS" to get group room rate.

Thursday Night 05/04 Group Room Rate - $109

Friday Night 05/05 Group Room Rate - $199


For those planning to stay the weekend, we have a group rate for the following hotel on 5/6/23 - located in downtown Asheville, 16 miles from Asheville Regional Airport


plantTownePlace Suites Asheville Downtown

39 Elm Street Asheville, North Carolina 28801 Click here to book using our wedding block

Saturday Night 05/06 Group Room Rate - $169