OUR STORY
The Little Chapel at Haven Ridge is 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 our 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 over 30 years. As the family who built this venue, we are also the ones who walk alongside you throughout your planning process and are present on your wedding day, ensuring every detail reflects the love and joy of the occasion. 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
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 children. The 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.
Mollie Bradford
Venue Manager, Marketing Director
& Resident Steward
Mollie is the creative force behind The Little Chapel at Haven Ridge, dedicated to making every experience truly exceptional. A hands-on venue manager and resident of the property, she works closely with couples, photographers, and vendors to ensure every detail is perfect—from the first tour to the final send-off. Mollie became a Little Chapel bride herself in October 2024, deepening her personal connection to the space she helps bring to life. Before co-developing the vision for the grounds with her father, she worked in the wedding industry as a Bridal Consultant and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Marketing & Management. She also co-owns Winston-Salem's Picnic Ladies with her sister, Sarah.
Sarah Bradford Croom
Co-Owner of Winston-Salem's Picnic Ladies
& Property/Event Manager
Sarah graduated from Appalachian State with a degree in Elementary Education and returned to her hometown of Winston-Salem to raise her 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. With a knack for anticipating needs before they arise, she seamlessly lends a helping hand, both on event day and behind the scenes.
Joe Bradford
Resident Steward
Joe plays a key role in keeping things running smoothly, balancing behind the scenes work, while also calling the property home with his wife, Jen, and their two corgis. A Scottish-Gaelic speaker and history enthusiast with a Master’s degree from the University of Aberdeen, Joe brings warmth, dedication, and hospitality to everything he does.
Ludo Bradford
Farm Pup
Meet Ludo: goldendoodle, treat enthusiast, and full-time hype pup for the team. He belongs to Mollie and Matthew and pops in from time to time to offer morale boosts, quality snuggles, and diligent wildlife surveillance as our Chief Squirrel and Deer Tracker. His side gig? Managing sticks across the property, a role he takes very seriously. When he's off duty, he likes to spend quality time with his grandparents or hang out with his neighbor corgi cousins.
MEET OUR TEAM
In addition to our family team, we’re excited to introduce our talented in-house team of Coordinators and Event Managers, who are here to elevate your event experience! These trusted vendors are familiar with every detail of our venue and provide seamless service to ensure your day runs smoothly. We understand a wedding is a big investment, and your special day is not the time to stress or worry. That’s why we’ve assembled a team of skilled and trusted vendors, committed to taking care of all the details, so you can focus on enjoying every moment.