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OUR STORY

The Little Chapel at Haven Ridge is first and foremost, a private family-owned sanctuary.

"Rooted in love", is the mantra the Bradford family conveys through the inclusive community cultivated here. We specialize in intimate weddings, elopements and special events in a setting artfully designed to entwine European heritage and old-world architectural style. The Little Chapel is a symbol of hope, peace, and a reminder that no dream is impossible with faith. This sacred land, a nature preserve, is our backyard and has been near and dear to our family's hearts for 33 years. We invite you to delight in this safe haven and share in creating new memories that will last a lifetime, from our family to yours. 

MEET OUR FAMILY

Family
Our Story

Mollie Bradford

Venue Coordinator, Marketing Director 

& Co-Owner of Winston-Salem's Picnic Ladies

Mollie is the creative force behind The Little Chapel at Haven Ridge, and she's dedicated to making your experience truly exceptional. With a hands-on approach, she collaborates closely with couples, photographers, and vendors to ensure every detail of your special occasion is perfect, from the time of touring to your event day. Mollie not only works on the grounds as the venue coordinator but resides on the property as well. For her, this isn't just a job—it's a lifestyle. Before co-developing the venue and its vision with her father, Mollie immersed herself in the wedding industry as a Bridal Consultant, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Marketing & Management. As a co-owner of Winston-Salem's Picnic Ladies alongside her sister, Sarah, Mollie is no stranger to entrepreneurial ventures. In 2018, she established her own business, Mollie B. Marketing & Creative.

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David Bradford

Property Owner & Visionary

Prior to retirement, David was an entrepreneur, who developed 8 patents and received the Presidential Green Chemistry Award from the Environmental Protection Agency in 2006. Despite having no theological experience, he shifted his focus towards following the calling placed on his heart nearly 20 years prior to build a small sanctuary for his family. That dream became a reality and The Little Chapel would find its home on the land he'd purchased in 2005, alongside the house where he and his wife, Jan had raised their four childrenThe Little Chapel began its journey in 2015 and construction started in the spring of 2021, architecturally inspired by the Bradford's English and Scottish heritage.

Sarah Bradford Croom

Co-Owner of Winston-Salem's Picnic Ladies

Sarah graduated from Appalachian State with a degree in Elementary Education and returned to her hometown of Winston-Salem to raise her 4 children. She is the Co-Owner of Winston-Salem's Picnic Ladies with her sister, Mollie, bringing one-of-a-kind luxury picnic experiences hosted on the venue's grounds. Sarah brings a dynamic 

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Joe Bradford

Wedding Officiant & Non-profit Director

Joe is a Scottish-Gaelic speaking history buff who earned his Masters degree from University of Aberdeen of Scotland. He joined the team in June 2023 to continue his passion for helping others in the community through our non-profit, Little Chapel Ministries and is our in-house Officiant for weddings at the venue. Joe and his wife, Jen and their corgis will be building their home on the property in 2024.

Ludo Bradford

Farm Pup

Ludo is our friendly goldendoodle pup who will do anything for a treat and a belly rub. Ludo brings wags of encouragement to the team. You may see him around from time to time. He's a real paw-fessional when it comes to  styled shoots.

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