Wedding bells again
<p>Tim Mitchell and Shawny Normington show the large second-floor of the White House Events facility, now open for small and large special functions.</p>
COEUR d'ALENE - It's a nice place for a white wedding. Though a day late for June brides, one of the more elegant and at one time popular spots for weddings and other special events is now once again in operation.
Tim Mitchell, owner of Mangia Catering, will hold an open house from 7-9 p.m. today at White House Events, the historical home at 805 Sherman Ave. He and Shawny Normington, events coordinator, will operate from the White House, named for North Idaho pioneer J. C. White.
"It's ready to go," Mitchell said. "We're getting calls already."
With 6,000 square feet on three floors, plus a 2,000-square-foot carriage house out back where grooms can prepare for their walk down the aisle, the White House can handle groups as large as 200 inside, and 400 outside on the lawn.
Smaller groups can also book the facility for short events. The second floor offers an expansive carpeted area plus a hardwood dance floor and a fireplace.
"One nice thing is we do quick weddings," Normington said. "Short and sweet, one-hour weddings, with pictures and cake. It is an alternative to The Hitching Post."
After closing Mangia, his Italian restaurant in Post Falls, Mitchell continued with his catering business, based in Post Falls. Mangia will be the exclusive caterer for the White House. A list of preferred providers of other services such as disc jockeys and florists is available, and Normington will customize each event to individual needs.
Days, nights and weekends are available with prices starting at $500.
"We will have packages to accommodate every budget," Mitchell said.
While Italian food is his specialty, menus will be built around individual tastes.
Normington has 20 years of experience as an events coordinator, and will provide advice and direction to those who need it.
A large tent is available for outside events and old trees provide ample shade for hot summer months. Lighting and sound systems are installed inside and out.
A member of Real Life Ministries, Mitchell has several preachers available to perform ceremonies.
Information: 765-3958