With a January 2024 engagement under their belts, Matthew and Nicole knew they had a project on their hands—and the sound of a ticking clock in their ears. The seven-year undertaking of turning TAR CREEK RANCH (@tarcreekranch) into a wedding and event venue was Matthew’s dream, so the grand opening coinciding with the owners’ wedding made a perfect debut.
As soon as the couple set an October date, the race was on to complete key upgrades before the arrival of 240 guests. The Magnolia Pavilion, a new outdoor dining space, became the focal point of the celebration, framed as it is by fields of Sudangrass and wildflowers, which had been planted by Matthew three months before the big day. Throughout the ranch, fresh landscaping and meticulous updates transformed the space into a picture- perfect setting.
Beyond the large-scale improvements, the couple took on a series of DIY projects to make the wedding uniquely their own. A custom-built wine barrel bar expanded the reception’s drink service, while handcrafted signage welcomed guests and guided them through the day. Inside the barn and pavilion, a black and white design with blue accents and hydrangeas set the scene, while draped linens added a cozy touch and a sparkling disco ball brought the whimsy. “All of the hard work and personal effort we put into this day made it all the more worth it,” Matthew reflects.
One of the most memorable elements of the evening was a late-night McFlurry bar, a tribute to the Abbate family’s deep ties to McDonald’s and Nicole’s love for the classic treat. As their friends and family celebrated, they were witnessing not just a marriage but the realization of a long-held vision, brought to life with passion, dedication and a hands-on approach. Says Matthew, “We are so fortunate that every day, we get to enjoy the venue we got married at.”
