By Contributing Writer Helena Tavares Kennedy

Less than a mile from the Reston Town Center is a hidden gem many brides may not be aware of: Hidden Creek Country Club. Hidden Creek offers what you’d expect from a country club, like an Ed Ault-designed golf course, but you may not expect the year-round possibilities it offers for brides and grooms to host their weddings.

“We offer a rural backdrop in the heart of the city, providing you the best of both all in one location,” said Annette Armitage, head of Hidden Creek’s Catering and Private Event Sales department. “And you do not have to be a Club Member to host an event at Hidden Creek.”

Weddings can be held outdoors at Hidden Creek’s special ceremony site or even on the signature golf course for passionate golfers looking for a unique setting for their special day. Another option is the year-round covered deck if you are looking for gorgeous views of the 18th hole and an outdoors feel. Smaller events like a bridal shower or bachelor party can even be held at the cozy and comfy fire pit area that offers stunning views and scenery.

If you prefer an indoor setting for colder months, your special event can be hosted inside the beautifully decorated Fairway Ballroom for a high-class atmosphere. The ballroom seats up to 200 people, making it a great option for formal weddings and larger events.

If you are concerned about the cost of having your wedding at a country club (some country clubs are pricier than other venues due to their upscale setting), Hidden Creek can help you. Their professional event staff can work with you to personalize the menus and various options available to ensure you stay within your target.

While Hidden Creek offers all-inclusive packages so you know your total cost up front, the ability to personalize the menus and change some options makes it appealing for brides and grooms who are looking to really make their wedding their very own.

Hidden Creek’s chef, Hector Lopez, offers brides and grooms multiple menu choices for their special day main meal or formal sit-down dinner as well as brunches, cocktail hours, receptions, rehearsal dinners, and more. Brides and grooms will have a plethora of options to choose from for hors d’oeuvres, carving stations, buffets, sit-down dinners, and desserts. In fact, Washington Golf Monthly said Hidden Creek had “the best country club food in the Washington area,” so brides need not worry about subpar dining here.

“Our core banquet staff, most of who have been at the club for six-plus years, are always eager to ensure every event is a success,” said Armitage. “Our extensive menu variety is crafted by Chef Lopez who has been at the club for over 10 years. His favorite item to prepare is a seared tender filet mignon topped with caramelized onions and a Madeira demi-glace, paired with haricot vert and garlic-infused whipped mashed potatoes. Yum!”

Alyssa and David Harrington recently held their wedding at Hidden Creek Country Club and had quite a remarkable experience. Said Alyssa: “The staff were amazing, the food was delicious, and the event went without a hitch!...well, almost. The DJ I had paid to host my wedding did not show up. Unbeknownst to me, Annette made sure to call a DJ that she worked with in the past and had him come to the event last minute! I didn’t even know that my DJ never showed up until after the ceremony ended.” How’s that for incredible event support during your special day – not even knowing there was a problem until afterwards?

“The country club took the decorations that I had purchased and adorned the reception hall with everything perfectly. It was absolutely beautiful! All of my guests were amazed at how wonderful everything looked,” Alyssa added. “Annette was an amazing coordinator and I couldn’t have asked for a better wedding day because of her and other event staff efforts. They made my wedding above and beyond what I had imagined and I am forever grateful!”

Hidden Creek Country Club is ready for your wedding or other special event. Annette Armitage is ready to help brides and grooms with tours of the property and assistance in planning your special event at this stunning country club. Visit them online at hiddencreekcc.com. Or visit their Pinterest page to see more amazing photos from their weddings and events at pinterest.com/hiddencreekcc.

Helena Tavares Kennedy (helena@bridesandweddings.com) is a freelance writer and communications director who has lived in Northern Virginia for over 16 years.