Ribbon-Cutting & First Look Set for Monday, September 22, 2025
WHAT
Lanier Islands Resort invites members of the media to the grand unveiling of its newest venue—the Williams Chapel and Gardens. This non-denominational chapel honors beloved Williams family members Sara D. Williams and Mendy Williams Bowling and celebrates the resort’s legacy of family, love, and Southern elegance. The event will include a ribbon-cutting, remarks from resort leadership, and guided tours of the chapel and surrounding gardens.
WHO
• Matthew Bowling, President, Lanier Islands Resort
• Virgil R. Williams, Owner, Lanier Islands Resort
• Missy Burgess, Director of Public Relations, Lanier Islands Resort
• Local officials, community leaders, and invited guests
WHEN
Monday, September 22, 2025
Ribbon-cutting begins at 11:00 a.m.
Media check-in opens at 10:30 a.m.
WHERE
Lanier Islands Resort – Williams Chapel
7000 Lanier Islands Parkway
Buford, GA 30518
(Approximately 45 minutes north of Atlanta)
WHY
The Williams Chapel and Gardens provide an inspired new setting for weddings, celebrations of life, christenings, and other special gatherings—continuing the resort’s tradition of creating unforgettable memories along the shores of Lake Lanier.
VISUALS
• First public view of the chapel’s striking architecture, arched windows, and rose-lined gardens
• Ribbon-cutting with the Williams family
• Scenic lake and resort backdrops ideal for photography and video
RSVP & MEDIA CONTACT
Please RSVP by Friday, September 19, 2025
Missy Burgess, Director of Public Relations
Email: mburgess@lanierislands.com
Phone: 678-907-6772
Invitation attached. High-resolution images and additional information available at https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/rmizdya7ljry25ndngrjb/AGsarL9VHmqoIgxjspjDfyk?rlkey=mpykkwz345zq0vf9mmomt51xm&dl=0.
Quick Facts:
- New Venue: Williams Chapel and Gardens, non-denominational
- Purpose: Honors Sara D. Williams (late wife of resort owner Virgil R. Williams, passed away in 2021) and Mendy Williams Bowling (daughter, passed away in 2019)
- Seating Capacity: Sanctuary seats up to 150 guests
- Features:
- Covered porch with classic columns
- Arched windows providing garden views
Recessed altar backed by windows
Bridal suite
Brick-lined garden pathways leading to timber-framed gazebo
- Uses: Weddings, vow renewals, christenings, celebrations of life, other special events
- Resort Amenities: Legacy Lodge, Game Changer arcade & restaurant, championship golf course, marina, multiple wedding venues
- Other Wedding Locations on Property:
- Venetian Pier over Lake Lanier
Peachtree Falls with scenic lake backdrop
Peachtree Point with amphitheater, lakeside altar, and event space with prep kitchens
- Venetian Pier over Lake Lanier
- Garden Highlights: Roses and crape myrtles—favorites of the Williams family