JOSEPH and ALLISON

There is some lovely shopping around the Sandhills area!  If you are a lady who isn't feeling what you packed then downtown Southern Pines has some adorable boutiques -- Patricia's, Monkee's, Morgan Miller, Denker's, etc. It is also worth walking around the Village of Pinehurst as well (Cooper & Bailey's). If you are gentleman who isn't feeling what you packed then Pinehurst is where it's at -- hit up The Gentleman's Corner and you may start to rival the groom for the most dapper at the party. Moral of the story, stroll along both Southern Pines and Pinehurst downtowns and you will have a lovely time!

There are so many ways to be out and about in the Pines!

Some of our top recommendations:
Get your zen on at Hot Asana Yoga in downtown Southern Pines or get your downward dog on in normal temps at Village Yoga in the Village of Pinehurst.

If it is a pretty day (let us pray it is a pretty day), then a less than 30 minute drive will get you to Dewitt's Outdoor Sports with all sorts of shooting options. The sporting clays course is especially fun!

The Pines are well known for golf and horses. So logic goes to show that you probably want to partake in at least one of the two. You can't go wrong with one of the many golf courses in the area but going for one of the "Pinehurst Number . . ." options would be the most traditional. We have heard great things about the new short course called The Cradle. Fun fact, Allison used to practice at No. 2 when she was on the middle school golf team - another fun fact, you didn't have to try out for said team.

Are you training for a marathon or just wanting to get one with nature on a long run? You can't go wrong with a run around the Reservoir or Weymouth Woods nature preserve. Both are short drives from downtown Pinehurst.

If you are staying at a Pinehurst Resort property there are additional options for you found here: www.pinehurst.com/activities/

There are lots of great ways to get in some R&R but if you want a traditional spa experience, we highly recommend the Pinehurst Spa.

We have also heard great things about Donna Lane Day Spa and Karma Spa Beauty & Lounge.

The weekend of our wedding, there will be two events at the Pinehurst Harness Track that may be up your alley. From May 7 - 9 there will be the Dressage in the Sandhills horse show and the MCKC All Breed Dog Show. Both are sure to be fun! If you go in the morning, check out the hole-in-the-wall Harness Track restaurant located on the grounds. The blueberry pancakes are Allison's childhood favorite and remains a number one order to this day!

Favorite breakfast spots: Betsy's Crepes, Mac's Breakfast Anytime, Scott's Table

Favorite lunch spots: 195, Nature's Own ( these two restaurants are connected - 195 is sit down and a bit fancier, Nature's Own is equally delicious but a bit more "granola"), Sweet Basil, Wedgies (connected to a gas station but don't be put off by the location, these sandwiches are GOOD)

Favorite dinner spots: The Leadmine, Chapman's, Ashten's (sit on the bar side for a more relaxed vibe), Chef Warren's (fancy and delicious), 195 (great outdoor seating if the weather is nice), The Sly Fox

Drinks: The Wine Shop, The Leadmine, The Jefferson Inn, Drum & Quill, Pinehurst Brewery