Bride: Dr. Tajuan Woody-Mahatoo
Venue: Trails of Africa
Date: July 6, 2013
Photos: JC Bravo Photography
Caterer: Chef Clayton Sherrod
What made you decide to have your
wedding at the Birmingham Zoo?
As we planned our blessed day, we
wanted the excitement of a unique,
non-traditional ceremony.
What was your wedding theme or style?
The natural beauty of the Zoo is
exemplary of our personal style, and
it fit perfectly with our “Tropical
Romance” theme.
What did your guests or you love most
about the venue?
The exotic ambiance of the Trails of
Africa made guests feel like they were
attending a destination wedding.
Which caterer did you choose for your
reception and why?
We chose one of the Zoo’s approved
caterers, Chef Clayton Sherrod. His
work, which includes award-winning
service in preparing Caribbean food,
was unparalleled. Upon tasting his
food, we were not disappointed!
Where did you and your husband go on
your honeymoon?
Donnie and I chose to celebrate our
nuptials at the beautiful Ritz-Carlton,
Kapalua in Maui, Hawaii.
If you had one piece of advice for future
brides, what would it be?
Hire a videographer! We initially
decided to omit this from our budget,
since so many family and friends were
filming and taking photos. Then, we
had a change of heart and hired one at
the very last minute. Our videographer
produced a full length video and a
“
highlights” reel, which was just like a
movie trailer. We can’t stop looking at
it. We love it so much!
Did you have a wedding planner? Why
or why not?
I am a huge fan of a few celebrity
wedding planners, so from the
beginning, I knew (in detail) exactly
what I wanted. However, we were glad
we used vendors that were already
familiar with the Zoo’s spacious
facilities.
Did you have a DJ or band play at your
reception and why?
Donnie and I both love a wide variety
of music. We selected a DJ with an
expansive music portfolio, who was
able to feel the vibe in the room and
adjust the music accordingly. He
even acted as an emcee and was very
interactive with our guests on the
dance floor.
Name three of your favorite things that
the Zoo offered that no other venue
could?
No other venue offers interaction with
live animals during your event. The
Zoo provides various options. We used
animal greeters to meet guests as they
arrived.
I also loved that the Zoo has so
many amazing photo opportunities.
From the elephant monument in the
Trails of Africa to the Carousel in the
Children’s Zoo, our photographers
were able to capture numerous photos
that looked absolutely amazing!
Finally, most of the other venues
simply offered beer, wine or no
alcoholic beverages at all. This did not
work for us. We believe the goal of any
party is to have fun, and loved that the
Zoo retains a full liquor license. We
were able to provide a well-stocked
bar, complete with professional and
friendly bar-tending service.
at the
Zoo
By Courtney Terry
Looking for a truly unique space for your next event? Why not book your
wedding, rehearsal dinner, reunion, graduation party, company picnic,
meeting or luncheon at the Birmingham Zoo?
With catering options ranging from African safari to formal elegance,
we can help make your event a success. The Zoo also offers event extras
including animal demonstrations and more.
Call 205.397.3868 or email
for more information or to book your event today!
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