location due to our unmatched amenities , beauty and location - our proximity to hotels and bed and breakfasts . Oftentimes the bridal party can walk back to their bed and breakfast ,” Altes said .
Shauna Altes
Weddings make up 99 % of their annual business , and Altes says a whopping 10 % of their weddings come from out of state from places like Georgia , Tennessee , New York and Washington state .
“ We love it because the local economy here in New Smyrna Beach receives a huge boost . Cake bakers , hotels , gift shops , restaurants and more all receive a boost from the patrons coming to get married at the barn ,” she said .
As the owner and founder of “ Adventure Together Venues ,” her business model has been so successful , she ’ s opening a second location an hour east of Atlanta , in Greensboro , Georgia , with plans to expand across the southeastern United States .
Activity is Accelerating
With many weddings delayed in 2020 , tourism officials saw an
uptick in wedding-related activity in 2021 , confirming interest in Volusia County as a wedding destination .
“ Area hotels and wedding venues have seen an increase in bookings as families decide that the time is right for them to travel ,” said Kate Holcomb , Director of Communications for the Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau .
“ This area is the ideal destination for families looking for a destination wedding . Not only is getting here easy and affordable , but the wide variety of accommodations and venues , along with knowledgeable , local wedding planners , offer options that can satisfy any style or budget from very casual to formal , with an abundance of beautiful outdoor spaces as well .”
Danielle Anderson has worked in the public relations and media industry for a decade . She started her career as a reporter for Flagler Broadcasting where she discovered her passion for telling the stories of communities in Florida .
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