Our Story
Blackberry Ridge began as a simple idea shared by two newlyweds who wanted to create something they never found during their own wedding search. What started as a vision for a venue that felt refined rather than rustic has become a destination where families gather, celebrations unfold, and the noise of life fades into the hills.
How It All Began
The idea for Blackberry Ridge took shape shortly after Steven and Jackie Shaffer were married. While planning their own wedding, they longed for a place that felt elevated without feeling distant, beautiful without feeling staged, and supported by a team that made planning feel effortless. Steven’s childhood played a major role in the dream. He spent fifteen years living across Europe, surrounded by timeless architecture, quiet countryside, and a culture that prizes slowing down. Those years inspired the aesthetic and spirit of Blackberry Ridge. When the Shaffers discovered a former golf course nestled in the rolling hills of North Georgia, they immediately recognized the potential.
The ponds, open fields, and sense of privacy created the perfect canvas for a venue with a European soul and Southern warmth.
The Transformation
In 2021, the property was little more than a large plot of land. Steven designed and built every structure on the estate from the ground up, ensuring each space felt cohesive, intentional, and true to the European character that first inspired the dream. Nothing here is repurposed or leftover from the former course.
Every wall, courtyard, window, and walkway was created with a specific purpose: to give couples and their families spaces that feel both luxurious and relaxed.
Today, the estate stretches across 265 acres, with venues and accommodations tucked thoughtfully into the landscape so guests can enjoy beauty, privacy, and connection at every turn.
A Family Effort
While the Shaffers began the project on their own, Blackberry Ridge quickly became a family endeavor. Jackie’s parents moved to the region and joined the effort as the estate grew. Her father, Dwight Seek, is now an essential part of the team. He manages tours, ensures every venue is perfect before each event, and supports day-to-day operations with a level of care that guests feel the moment they arrive. This spirit of family is woven through everything at Blackberry Ridge.
The estate was designed not only for weddings but for the moments that surround them, from rehearsal dinners to long conversations over morning coffee to the quiet joy of simply being together.
What We Believe
The heart of Blackberry Ridge is simple. We want couples and their families to feel at ease the moment they enter the property. Weddings are remarkable on their own, but the days that surround them often become the memories people cherish most. Our philosophy centers on connection. Luxury for us is not about formality or perfection. It is about creating a setting where guests can unwind, breathe, and enjoy time together.
“We built Blackberry Ridge to be a place where stories begin, families grow, and love is celebrated by family and friends. Our mission is simple. We want people to feel cared for, connected, and completely at home. Every great love story deserves a setting worthy of it.”
— The Shaffers
The Staff of Blackberry Ridge
When it comes to your wedding day, you can trust it's in capable, caring hands. Our team of seasoned and skilled event planners brings decades of experience to the table. From planning to execution, Blackberry Ridge is dedicated to ensuring your wedding day goes off without a hitch.
Steven
Owner
Steven grew up in Romania, which is where his appreciation and admiration of European architecture was born. He attended college in Tennessee where we met his wife Jackie. After a few years of operating his own business as a contractor, the vision for a European style wedding venue began to take shape. Over the last 5 years, with Jackie's partnership behind the scenes, Steven has cultivated this European-style estate, which has quickly become a highly sought-after destination venue. When he finds the time to step away from managing his businesses, Steven loves a game of poker, playing pickleball with friends, enjoying a homecooked meal, and spending time with his many dogs.
Erika
Venue Director
Erika was born and raised in Alabama, and relocated to Chattanooga Tennessee with her husband after they married in 2019. With six years of industry experience in event planning and venue management, she offers a well-rounded perspective to help support clients and vendor partners during the planning process. Erika never gets tired of dreaming up big wedding plans with clients and their families--it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience that just doesn't compare to anything else! She is enthusiastic about education, understanding, and creativity within the wedding industry. But outside of the office, you'll likely find Erika cuddling her cats, bingewatching a drama, dreaming about her next vacation destination, or trying a new restaurant/coffeehouse with her husband!
Dwight
Estate Manager
Dwight is the OG employee of Blackberry Ridge! As Steven's father-in-law, he has been dedicated to supporting business operations through property management from the very beginning. Many clients also affectionately remember Dwight as their weekend tour guide, with his southern hospitality and down-to-earth demeanor leaving a lasting impression. Dwight is a retired Marine and pastor, and he doesn't shy away from chatting about his passions! On a daily basis, you'll rarely catch Dwight without dog not far behind him.
Emma
Client Relations Manager
With over four years of experience in the wedding industry, Emma brings both expertise and heart to her role. She is passionate about building meaningful connections with each couple she serves, ensuring they feel supported, valued, and genuinely celebrated. From the very first tour to the moment they say "I do," she is committed to creating experiences that honor and celebrate each client well. In her personal time, whether it’s out for a walk, enjoying a good cup of coffee, or fitting in a workout, Emma finds joy in spending time with the people she loves—her husband, their two pups, and her closest friends and family.
Rikky
Client Relations Assistant
Rikky brings over a decade of professional event planning experience to the team. Originally from Northern Michigan, she spent ten years in downtown Chicago, where she had the opportunity to plan and execute a wide range of thoughtfully curated events. After marrying her husband in 2024, Rikky relocated to Chattanooga, Tennessee to be closer to family. Her favorite aspect of this role is building meaningful connections with clients and vendor partners, ensuring each celebration feels personal, seamless, and unforgettable. Outside of work, you can find Rikky at a workout class, enjoying long walks with her two dogs, or catching up with a friend over coffee.
Begin Your Story at Blackberry Ridge
Whether you are imagining an intimate gathering or a full estate experience, our team is here to help you create something unforgettable.