Considered one of the best areas in the country to live, Reynolds Lake Oconee is home to awide range of people who have determined that the Lake Oconee community is their true nirvana. While all of the area attributes seem to create a “Georgia Camelot,” the real secret to the lifestyle here is not simply the environment, but the rich social interaction that has evolved the past 20 years.
A tradition was established among the first of the new residents at Reynolds Lake Oconee. Small dinner parties were hosted by couples who invited three other couples they had not met. The guidelines were simple: the hosts provide the entrée, one couple provides appetizers, one couple the salad, and one couple the dessert. The sumptuous meal was enjoyed with a glass of wine and good conversation.
The formula was a perfect fit for those settling into their new lifestyle at Reynolds Lake Oconee: great food, a relaxed, home-style atmosphere and six new friends sharing their life stories throughout the evening.
Since those first parties in 1989, the concept has been promoted extensively by a variety of social organizations and has become firmly embedded into the Reynolds social culture. Currently the largest organization, The Plantation Ladies Club, boasting more than 400 members, has made this a regular part of its social calendar. Members can sign up as either a participant or a host. From there, it’s up to the host’s imagination as to whether to cook a gourmet meal, or to simply barbeque on the back deck. Sometimes the gathering might include cocktails during a boat tour of Lake Oconee before dinner. One thing is for sure: These dinners always create great memories – and often form friendships that continue for years.
Appreciating the tradition of these dinner gatherings – and recognizing the growing number of wine enthusiasts at Reynolds Lake Oconee – Richard Matthews, owner of Classic Wines in Lake Oconee Village, created a special “Wine Parings Party.” The elegantly packaged evenings are designed to be auctioned for charity and already have raised funds for numerous groups throughout the community (the Reynolds Foundation, the Dixie Cup Breast Cancer Walk, Gatewood Schools, and the local Humane Society).
The six couples with the highest bids are treated to a seven-course meal, with appropriate wine pairings. Not only do the participants enjoy unparalleled wine and a scrumptious dinner in a relaxed atmosphere, but they also learn to match wine with food. Like those first gatherings at original Reynolds Lake Oconee homes, part of the success of each Wine Pairings Party is the ambiance that a home provides, setting the stage for a special evening together.
The Neighbor and Newcomers Organization of Lake Oconee recently held a themed Progressive Dinner for Valentine’s Day, when 16 couples caravanned from house to house and enjoyed appetizers, dinner and dessert. The “entertainment” was unique, as each couple was required to share how they met, what attracted them to each other and talk about their wedding day – which provided for lots of good, old-fashion fun.
Food, wine and friends – a favorite pastime at Reynolds Lake Oconee, where small dinner parties are a time-honored tradition. They have produced many memorable evenings and forged just as many lasting friendships, making this a wonderful place that we call home.
