This picture of my niece and nephew, Lindsey and Brian, gives you an idea as to the beauty of the views from The War Eagle Supper Club. Part 5 takes us to the Welcome Party at The Graduate Auburn, a newer Hilton property that deserves a little praise of its own. www.hilton.com/en/hotels/aubgagu-graduate-auburn-al/?SEO_id=GMB-AMER-GU-AUBGAGU
In early June, Auburn reached out to me about hosting a casual welcome party or meet-and-greet for the many out-of-town guests who would be arriving by Friday afternoon. We already had a block of rooms reserved at The Graduate and had heard wonderful things about its rooftop venue, the War Eagle Supper Club. With sweeping views of Jordan-Hare Stadium, Samford Hall, and Auburn's impressive new College of Engineering building, it offered a uniquely Auburn backdrop for welcoming family and friends.
The alternative was to suggest everyone gather at local favorites like SkyBar or Moe's Original BBQ. While those would have certainly been fun, the bridal party would be arriving directly from the rehearsal dinner dressed in cocktail attire. A sophisticated rooftop setting simply felt like a more fitting choice for the evening.
Kaylie and the team at The Graduate were wonderful to work with. With a little negotiation, we were able to reserve the rooftop space with a cash bar and a simple pub mix placed on each table. By 8:00 p.m., we knew most guests would have already eaten, so our goal wasn't to host another elaborate event. Instead, we wanted to create a welcoming place where travelers could relax, reconnect, and visit before the excitement of the wedding day. Since the rehearsal dinner was reserved for immediate family and the wedding party, I completely understood Auburn's desire to extend hospitality to our out-of-town guests in this thoughtful way.
In early June, Auburn reached out to me about hosting a casual welcome party or meet-and-greet for the many out-of-town guests who would be arriving by Friday afternoon. We already had a block of rooms reserved at The Graduate and had heard wonderful things about its rooftop venue, the War Eagle Supper Club. With sweeping views of Jordan-Hare Stadium, Samford Hall, and Auburn's impressive new College of Engineering building, it offered a uniquely Auburn backdrop for welcoming family and friends.
The alternative was to suggest everyone gather at local favorites like SkyBar or Moe's Original BBQ. While those would have certainly been fun, the bridal party would be arriving directly from the rehearsal dinner dressed in cocktail attire. A sophisticated rooftop setting simply felt like a more fitting choice for the evening.
Kaylie and the team at The Graduate were wonderful to work with. With a little negotiation, we were able to reserve the rooftop space with a cash bar and a simple pub mix placed on each table. By 8:00 p.m., we knew most guests would have already eaten, so our goal wasn't to host another elaborate event. Instead, we wanted to create a welcoming place where travelers could relax, reconnect, and visit before the excitement of the wedding day. Since the rehearsal dinner was reserved for immediate family and the wedding party, I completely understood Auburn's desire to extend hospitality to our out-of-town guests in this thoughtful way.
The Graduate itself is a destination worth exploring. Every corner celebrates Auburn's history and traditions through carefully curated memorabilia, vintage touches, and playful mid-century modern décor. It feels nostalgic without being dated, elegant without feeling stuffy, and perfectly captures the spirit of a college town rich in tradition. Its location—just a short walk from our VRBO—made it even more convenient.
Around 10:30 that evening, Ron and I met his mom and aunt back at the VRBO before driving together to the Main House at Auburn Oaks Farm. It was finally time to get a little sleep before the biggest day of all.
The wedding morning would begin bright and early with hair and makeup appointments starting at 7:15 a.m. Auburn had thoughtfully arranged a shuttle to transport all nine bridesmaids from The Graduate to the Main House, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the morning together.
And that full-glam experience? It definitely deserves a post of its own. Along with beautiful hair and makeup came a few unexpected lessons that every future bride—and mother of the bride—might appreciate. Stay tuned!
Around 10:30 that evening, Ron and I met his mom and aunt back at the VRBO before driving together to the Main House at Auburn Oaks Farm. It was finally time to get a little sleep before the biggest day of all.
The wedding morning would begin bright and early with hair and makeup appointments starting at 7:15 a.m. Auburn had thoughtfully arranged a shuttle to transport all nine bridesmaids from The Graduate to the Main House, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy the morning together.
And that full-glam experience? It definitely deserves a post of its own. Along with beautiful hair and makeup came a few unexpected lessons that every future bride—and mother of the bride—might appreciate. Stay tuned!
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