Marble Slab Creamery

Marble Slab Creamery Gets Rave Wedding Reviews

2012-02-29T09:56:00.001-08:00

Still looking for that one unique thing to include in your wedding celebration in East Tennessee? If you--or your groom--is an ice cream lover, then please consider the delicious fun to be had at your wedding reception with Marble Slab Creamery's Portable Slab or popular Sundae Bar catering!

But, don't just take my word for it. Marble Slab Creamery of Fountain City was chosen for the 2011 & 2012 Bride's Choice Award by WeddingWire.com, which means we're ranked in the top five percent of wedding vendors for customer satisfaction. I encourage you to read our Wedding Wire reviews to see what others have to say about our services. For example:

"We were so excited and pleased to have Marble Slab at our wedding. This was one of the first decisions we made even before we had a location set & it couldn't have gone over any better with all of our guests! Everyone was so excited & loved having, not just ice cream, but MARBLE SLAB ice cream at the wedding! Marble Slab was very professional and truly a wonderful vendor to work with throughout our wedding planning process. If you get the chance to work with Sheila and John at any event, I highly recommend it!" --Katie & Gary Pickle

Sound interesting? Then I'd love to talk with you more about how Marble Slab Creamery can make your special day truly unique.

Blessings,

Sheila Thigpen - Wedding Catering Consultant

865.603.2466 - info@marbleslabcatering.com

Elegant Displays for Marble Slab Creamery Sundae Bars

2012-02-27T06:10:00.004-08:00

Off-season has given me the opportunity to experiment with some new serve ware for our Marble Slab Creamery catering events. I'm loving our newest display for Ice Cream Socials or Sundae Bars that includes these pretty glass bowls and rod iron risers.

These photos were taken a couple of weeks ago by Expressive Moments Photography at the Wedding Row Open House event hosted by Lisa Foster Floral Design, Wedding Wonderland, and White Table. For the event we featured a simple Ice Cream Social with Sweet Cream ice cream and introduced a couple of new topping options, Balsamic Strawberries and Sweet Toasted Coconut, along with an assortment of other candies. I can't wait to implement these ideas into one of our upcoming catering events!

Making Plans for a Big Event in 2012?

2012-02-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

Ever consider serving ice cream in lieu of the traditional Groom's Cake? Then we'd love to meet you at one of the following event planning shows and consult with you on how Marble Slab Creamery can make your celebration extra sweet! Hope to see you there!

Sunday, February 12, 11-4 pm
Say YES! Bridal & Beyond Show, Knoxville Convention Center

Thursday, February 16, 5-7 pm
Wedding Row Open House, Bearden Hill, Knoxville (register online)

Thursday, February 23, 6-8 pm
Event Open House, Club LeConte, Knoxville, TN

Sunday, March 4, 12-4 pm
Whitestone Country Inn Bridal Show, Kingston, TN

Thursday, March 16, 5:30-7:30 pm
The Reserve at Bluebird Hill Open House, Lenoir City, TN

Sunday, April 1, 1-5 pm
Spring Bridal Show, The Historic Bleak House, Knoxville, TN

For more info, contact Sheila Thigpen, Marble Slab's wedding consultant -- 865.603.2466 or info@marbleslabcatering.com.

It's all about the PARTY!

2012-01-28T07:21:00.000-08:00

Planning a celebration? Prom? Anniversary? Wedding? Corporate event? Looking for fabulous and original ideas to create your next one-of-a-kind party? Say Yes! Bridal & Beyond will showcase talents from more than 90 top event vendors in the area--including Marble Slab Creamery! Attendees will enjoy the most up-to-date fashions, sample wonderful food and beverage offerings and get a sneak peek at the best in rentals, venues and decked-out decor.

If you are an event coordinator, party planner, or the Hostess-with-the-Mostess among your friends, you won't want to miss this show! Mark your calendar now for Sunday, February 12, noon until 5:00 p.m at the Knoxville Convention Center. Hope to see you there!

P.S. Please like our Facebook page and be watching for opportunities to snag FREE tickets to this event in the next few days.

This Valentine's Day Strawberries LOVE Chocolate!

2012-01-14T06:08:00.000-08:00

Don't miss out on some delicious fun this Valentine's Day at Marble Slab Creamery! We're excited to share with you our newest Strawberries LOVE Chocolate ice cream creations. Please remember to reserve your heart cakes and Chocolate Dipped Strawberries early for pick-up at our creameries on Valentine's Day.

Strawberry Heart Cake - Made with Strawberry OR Sweet Cream Ice Cream and topped with fresh strawberries and whipped better creme. Serves 12-16.

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries - A half-pound box of assorted dark and white chocolate dipped berries in a pretty red box. These have become a Valentine's tradition for many of our local customers!

Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Cake - Sweet Cream ice cream swirled with strawberries and fudge. Serves 12-16.

And for the kids - Heart Cupcakes! Strawberry ice cream cupcakes topped with marshmallow creme on top of a chocolate cake crust.

Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Sundae, perfect for date night! Strawberry ice cream topped with fresh strawberries, hot fudge, whipped cream, and crowned with a chocolate dipped berry.

Another date night favorite, Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Shake!

Place orders online at www.marbleslab.com or call one of our local creameries.

To pick up in Fountain City (4885 North Broadway, Knoxville, TN), call 865-281-0408.

To pick up at Exit 407 in Kodak (3609 Outdoor Sportsmans Place), call 865-933-4770.

Lighter "Scoopable" Yogurt Dessert Options Now at Marble Slab!

2012-01-04T13:45:00.000-08:00

BLING in the New Year, Twenty-Twelve!

2012-01-01T14:52:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to all those couples who became newly engaged over the holidays! Now it's time to start 2012 with some wedding planning fun! If you and your fiance are Marble Slab Creamery fans, consider serving our gourmet ice cream at your wedding celebration. Please check our our local Marble Slab catering site to see highlights from some of our favorite 2011 weddings. Get the whole Marble Slab experience with our Portable Slab or choose one of our Ice Cream Sundae Bar options. Both are a guaranteed hit with your guests!

Sound interesting? Then we'd love to meet you at one of the following wedding planning events and consult with you on how Marble Slab Creamery can make your day extra sweet!
Sunday, January 8, 11-4 pm
The Knoxville Pink Bridal Show, Knoxville Convention Center
Sunday, February 12, 11-4 pm
Say YES! Bridal & Beyond Show, Knoxville Convention Center
Sunday, March 4, 12-4 pm
Whitestone Country Inn Bridal Show, Kingston, TN

For more info, contact Sheila Thigpen, Marble Slab's wedding consultant -- 865.603.2466 or info@marbleslabcatering.com.

Nikkiah & Jeffrey - October 22, 2011

2011-12-15T04:42:00.000-08:00

A dozen bridal open houses, 5-year anniversary event for our business, two proms, two holiday parties, Destination Imagination, Honda Hoot, March of Dimes Signature Chefs charity event, several birthday parties and corporate events, and 26 weddings...what a crazy year it has been for Marble Slab Creamery!

As we're wrapping up this year, it's my pleasure to feature our last wedding of 2011 and a very nice couple, Nikkiah and Jeffrey, who celebrated at Fox Den Country Club on October 22.

Nikkiah and Jeffrey, graduates of The University of Tennessee, live and work in the Washington, D.C. area and met through UT's Young Alumni Association in the Capitol. Funny how it is that you can be in the same town for four years and never meet until you move away!

Nikkiah attended one of the open house events in Knoxville this Spring, and after returning to D.C. decided that our Portable Slab would be awesome as Jeffrey's groom's cake. The portable slab was set up in the parlor at Fox Den (notice the "Fox Den" painting).

It's sometimes difficult to make a decision when there are so many yummy choices!

The menu included four of our most popular ice cream flavors--Vanilla, Cheesecake, Sweet Cream, and Chocolate Swiss--along with fresh strawberries and other sweet and crunchy mixins.

Part of the fun with Marble Slab Creamery's portable slab catering is not only choosing your combination, but also watching your ice cream dessert being blended on our frozen slab.

Jeffrey is saying, "I don't know about you, but I'm having Sweet Cream!"

A BIG thank you goes out to our friends Sandy and Ira Smith of Moonlight Photographic for these images. Over the past two years we've been getting acquainted with this husband and wife team through the Association of Bridal Consultants and other networking groups, and finally we had the pleasure of working together! It was also a pleasure working with Julie Limbaugh, events coordinator at Fox Den Country Club. (By the way, she hired us on the spot to cater her son's birthday party the next month. Awesome!)

So what's coming up for 2012? Well, as of today we've already booked nine 2012 weddings, so we're thinking it's time to slow down a bit, enjoy the holidays, and get geared up for another busy year!

Anna & Garrett - September 3, 2011

2011-12-07T03:28:00.001-08:00

Meet one of our sweet couples, Anna and Garrett, lovers of nature, music, swimming, and...Marble Slab Creamery ICE CREAM! Anna and Garrett chose the Tea Room at Norris Dam State Park as the setting for their Labor Day weekend wedding. The weather for our last summer wedding was HOT, HOT, HOT, so it was a perfect day for an Ice Cream Sundae Bar reception.

Anna is finishing up her Art Education degree and did a lot of DIY projects for her wedding in hues of sage green, orange, and yellows. The Tea Room fit her style perfectly. The burlap table runners, pots of wild flowers and paper lanterns along with the Tea Room's tables and cane bottom chairs created a fun atmosphere.

The bridesmaids carried sunflowers and all the guests were provided with a hand held fan for the outdoor ceremony that featured one of the couple's engagement photos by Jennie Andrews Photography--love it!

Marble Slab Creamery was referred to Anna and Garrett by our photographer friend, Jennie Andrews, who provided us with these awesome images of our service table--thank you, thank you, thank you! Originally, Anna and Garrett had booked our Portable Slab for the reception, but when we checked out the historic Tea Room we found that the doorways in the 1930's building were too narrow to allow us to move the equipment inside. So instead, we catered our very popular Ice Cream Sundae Bar with three of the couple's favorite flavors--Vanilla, Double Dark Chocolate, and Birthday Cake.

We also brought along fresh strawberries, toasted pecans, and homemade cookie dough and other candies as toppings. Guests are never disappointed, especially when we ask if they'd like our Hot Fudge and Hot Caramel to top their sundae creations.

Yes, this sundae is delicious, and Jennie Andrews gets the award for capturing the perfect Marble Slab Creamery sundae photo of the summer! Yum-O!

Anna and Garrett's ceremony in the outdoor amphitheatre included the old-fashioned tradition of "jumping the broom!"

Here's another of Anna's creative DIY wedding projects. During the reception guests added their thumb prints and signatures to this family tree as a momento of the wedding. So special!

Marble Slab had the honor of working alongside Jennie Andrews at two weddings this year, and I'm beginning to think she has a thing about couples in the back of a car *wink wink* (check out our previous post Jeni & Michael).

Thank you, Anna and Garrett, for choosing Marble Slab Creamery as a part of your special day's celebration. We wish you scoops and scoops of happiness!

Let the Holiday Parties Begin!

2011-12-05T17:50:00.001-08:00

We're excited that Marble Slab Creamery has two holiday parties on our schedule this week and both are repeat performances! That's a real testimony that Marble Slab Creamery really does cater the sweeeetest party in town! The first party was last night at Gettysvue Country Club for Anesthesia Medical Alliance. According to their party planner, their employees kept asking "Marble Slab is coming again this year, right?"

The party featured our Premium Sundae Bar with a seasonal twist--Peppermint and Sweet Cream ice creams--and included our homemade Fudge Pecan Brownies and gooey Hot Fudge and Hot Caramel along with an assortment of candy and nut toppings.

Of course, we'd love the opportunity to cater your holiday party or next big event. We promise it will be sweeeet! Give us a call--865-603-2466.

Crowning our ice cream sundaes with a cherry on top is a must!

Jeni & Michael - July 16, 2011

2011-11-30T19:03:00.001-08:00

It's been a few weeks since I've had the opportunity to share a wedding post, and I'm so, so excited to share these awesome images of Jeni & Michael's wedding by the famous Jennie Andrews of Jennie Andrews Photography! Three years ago Marble Slab Creamery catered our very first wedding in Knoxville and had the privilege of working alongside Jennie. She's ultra talented and always so much fun! Keep reading and you'll see what I mean...

Jeni and Michael chose to get married at one of our favorite venues, Butterfly Gap Retreat in Maryville, Tennessee. BGR is in a lovely secluded setting and offers a ton of outdoor photo opportunities. Remember, I mentioned that Jennie is a lot of fun? Well, when we arrived at BGR to set up for the reception this is what we first saw as we drove up the driveway...

...Michael and Jeni being whizzed around the property in Jennie Andrew's little red Mini Coop for photo ops. Yep, our day started off with a big laugh!

Back to Michael and Jeni...we met this fun couple earlier this year at a Winter Open House event at Butterfly Gap Retreat where we featured our Portable Slab. Jeni decided right then and there that she wanted us to bring the slab back for her wedding and booked us on site (she wanted to make sure she snagged our SLAB for her date!).

Later, Michael and Jeni met with me for a Tasting Session where they chose four ice cream flavors to offer their guests--Birthday Cake, Black Cherry, Chocolate Swiss, and Vanilla--along with their favorite mixins.

Yes, the SLAB really is cold!

This was our first opportunity to work with Peggy Love (Plan it With Love) and obviously she enjoyed the Chocolate Swiss! After tying all these chair sashes, Peggy deserved a treat! The reception hall was lovely, of course.

Thank you, Jeni and Michael, for choosing Marble Slab Creamery to be a part of your special celebration! We wish you scoops of happiness!

Give the Gift of Ice Cream!

2011-11-27T04:51:00.001-08:00

From our store to your stockings--Marble Slab Creamery gift cards are guaranteed to create smiles all around on Christmas morning. Share some sweetness!

See the Light! New Scoopable Yogurt at Marble Slab Creamery

2011-11-18T04:56:00.001-08:00

Take home a quart of Vanilla
Yogurt and Oreo cookies!

We are excited to announce "See the Light" with Marble Slab Creamery's new low-fat Vanilla yogurt that is scooped out of our dipping cabinet. Why is this so exciting? We can now mixin your favorites...fresh strawberries, coconut, walnuts...and serve it up in a homemade waffle cone! We also still serve delicious fruit smoothies made from our Vanilla yogurt. Please try this new "better for you" dessert option this weekend, and then come back here to let me know what you think. TGIF everyone!

Marble Slab Creamery Gourmet Sundaes for Very Special Events

2011-11-15T04:41:00.001-08:00

Hold on to your tastebuds....you will love these new custom Gourmet Sundaes I've developed for our East Tennessee Holiday catering menu! We're very fortunate to have something really delicious to start with--Marble Slab Creamery ice cream recipes have been developed with a chef-driven focus--so "kicking it up a notch" was easy.

These new holiday catering options all began as a result of our involvement with the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction last week at the Knoxville Convention Center. John and I have participated in this charity event for the past five years and it's always an honor to among some of Knoxville's best chefs and restaurant owners. Each year I try to introduce one of Marble Slab Creamery's newest flavors, but this year I added a touch of my own creativity.

Our menu for the evening included a Sonoma Sundae and a Carrot Cake Sundae (made with our newest flavor), and both received high praises from the patrons at the event!Since these were such a hit, I've decided to group them along with a few more as offerings for Holiday parties. I'm calling this option the Gourmet Sundae Bar. The full menu includes six Gourmet Sundaes from which you can choose two to offer at your catered event. Our catering is full service--delivery, set up, and service--with a tastefully decorated service table, and of course delicious ice cream desserts. We've already booked two events with our new Gourmet Sundae Bar, so call me today if this is something you'd like to offer at your Holiday soiree! (Sheila/Catering Consultant - 865.603.2466 - or email info@marbleslabcatering.com)

Here's our new Gourmet Sundae Bar menu (you choose two):

Sonoma Sundae - Sweet Cream Ice Cream with homemade Mulled Wine Dark Chocolate Sauce, whipped cream & chocolate sprinkle garnish.
Carrot Cake Sundae - Carrot Cake Ice Cream with homemade Cream Cheese Whipped Cream & toasted coconut garnish.
Peppermint Oreo Sundae - Peppermint Ice Cream with Oreo cookies, chocolate sauce, whipped cream & candy cane garnish.
Almond Brittle Sundae - Amaretto Ice Cream with Heath Bar, caramel sauce, whipped cream & toasted almond garnish.
Rocky Road Sundae - Chocolate Swiss Ice Cream with marshmallow creme, chocolate drizzle, whipped cream & walnuts.
Strawberry Shortcake - Vanilla Ice Cream and yellow cake with fresh strawberries, strawberry syrup & whipped cream.

2010 Chefs at the March of Dimes charity event

Love the lighting effects at Sunday's event by Bandit Lights!

This was our service table Sunday evening--festive arrangement in a wine bottle, to go along with our Sonoma Sundae.

Happy Birthday to Drake from Marble Slab Creamery!

2011-11-13T04:33:00.001-08:00

An outdoor Birthday Party with an Ice Cream Sundae Bar in November? I know, it sounds crazy, right? Well, actually not at all! Last month Marble Slab Creamery catered a wedding (featuring our Portable Slab) at Fox Den Country Club and worked with Fox Den's Event Coordinator, Julie Limbaugh, for the first time. Julie was so impressed with our service that she asked if we could cater her son's birthday party--an outdoor event for 85 guests--in NOVEMBER.

Julie, Drake's mom

Of course, we agreed, and what do you know? The weather yesterday was perfect! Sunny and 65 degrees. The party theme was a Jedi Training Camp, complete with an obstacle course (big blow up bounce house) and Darth Vader as the special guest. Marble Slab Creamery's Sundae Bar served as the birthday cake with a menu chosen by Julie--Chocolate Birthday Cake and Peanut Butter Banana ice cream flavors, bananas, strawberries, gummy bears, mini marshmallows, Nutter Butter cookies, Reece's peanut butter cups, plus hot fudge and caramel, whipped cream, sundae nuts and cherries.

The menu for the party inclued a NEW Marble Slab ice cream flavor, Chocolate Birthday Cake!

The Birthday Boy! (And my shadow--poor little guy was staring into the sun!)

It really is a small world! We ran into our friend Lauren Chesney, Director of Community Relations for the Tennessee Smokies Baseball, who is Drake's cousin.

Darth Vader entertained the younglings at the Jedi Training Camp.

Happy 5th Birthday, Drake! May the Force be with you!

Elisha & Timothy - October 1, 2011

2011-11-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

Every girl dreams of being a princess who meets and marries a handsome prince and lives happily ever, but not every girl plans her wedding to literally depict that fairy tale dream. Except for Elisha.

Elisha and Timothy's wedding at The Orangery last month was laden with details from their favorite Disney love stories, Disney confetti, and this clever pumpkin on the welcome table (think Cinderella's carriage).

Because Timothy is not a big fan of cake, Marble Slab's Premium Sundae Bar was the perfect choice in lieu of the traditional groom's cake. Timothy's premium sundae bar included one of our seasonal favorites, Pumpkin Cheesecake ice cream, as well as brownies, pound cake, hot fudge and caramel, whipped cream and cherries, fresh strawberries, cookie dough, and an assortment of other candy and nut toppings.

Marble Slab Creamery homemade fudge brownies with toasted pecans.

The bridal cake was a fun topsy-turvy Disney design complete with a bride and groom cake topper wearing Mickey ears!

And, of course the groom's cake was a Marble Slab sundae!

Guests always enjoy making their own one-of-a-kind Marble Slab ice cream dessert.

And they lived happily ever after....after honeymooning on a Disney cruise, of course!Elisha and Timothy, we wish you scoops of happiness!

Venue: The Orangery

Photos: Erin Browne Photography

NEW Marble Slab Family Deal in Fountain City & Kodak!

2011-11-03T07:55:00.000-07:00

Bring the family to Marble Slab Creamery in Fountain City (4885 North Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37918) or Kodak at Exit 407 (3609 Outdoor Sportsmans Place, Kodak, TN 37764) and take advantage of our new FAMILY DEAL! Get two small cones and two kid size cones for just $12.99, and just maybe you'll get nominated for Mom and Dad of the Year!

Our Marble Slab Creamery Family Deal at Fountain City and Kodak begins today--no coupons needed to take advantage of this special--and is good all day, every day!

Brittany & Erik - August 6, 2011

2011-11-02T16:34:00.000-07:00

Get ready, friends, for some really fun wedding photos by Chelsea B. Photography of Brittany and Erik's sweet Southern wedding reception at The Reserve at Bluebird Hill! It was definitely a pleasure working with Brittany during the planning phases of her reception because she is so genuinely sweet. After graduating from UT this spring, Brittany became a full-time Young Life staff member. And, what do you know? My niece is in one of Brittany's high school groups! She tells me "Brittany is awesome!"

The wedding ceremony was held at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church with the reception for 400 guests following at Bluebird. Buffets by Abner's Attic were set up inside the pavilion as well as in the garden. Dessert consisted of Bridal cupcakes (for the wedding cake) and a Marble Slab Creamery Ice Cream Social for the Groom's Cake.

At our Tasting Session, three favorite flavors were chosen--Vanilla Bean, Chocolate Swiss, and Birthday Cake--along with Oreos, Reece's Pieces, pecans, graham crackers, gummy bears, and fresh strawberries as toppings. I just LOVE this homemade chalkboard menu that Erik made for our service table featuring the "Swan Bomb" which was Erik's favorite combination.

Just hours before the reception, Knoxville was hit with some major rain so needless to say we were ultra happy that the skies cleared up in time for the reception (even though we were under a lovely tent!).

This wedding season we began offering "self-serve" topping stations and I really like the fun display we can achieve with some of the topping choices brides make. Gummy bears, M&M's, and other colorful fruits and candies make for a fun and festive table.

This little one is enjoying the Gummy bears from her ice cream, but seriously, I don't think that she ate all three of those servings!

Brittany's grandmother was absolutely precious when I met her at the reception, and she was obviously proud of her granddaughter!

And here they are...a couple of our favorite Marble Slab Creamery fans, Mr. and Mrs. Swan!

Now, I can't help but mention a couple of fun facts about this reception (and share a couple of my own snapshots):

1. We served the GOVERNOR at the reception! Yep, Governor Bill Haslam really likes Marble Slab ice cream. His choice for the evening was Chocolate Swiss topped with Oreos and fresh strawberries--a very nice combo. Actually, Governor Haslam was the officiant for the ceremony, a special treat for his daughter's best friend.

2. Brittany and Erik's wedding was featured in the October issue of the Knoxville Magazine's Say YES! section. It was a lovely spread featuring more photos by Chelsea B. Photography and included this description about the reception's sweets:

In lieu of a traditional groom's cake and bridal cake, the couple wanted to share their favorite treats with their guests. Brittany chose a 6-tiered cupcake "cake" from Cities Cupcakes in an array of flavors. Erik chose a Marble Slab ice cream bar complete with three flavors and six mixins. One of Erik's handcrafted chalkboards listed the options along with the Swam Bomb: Birthday Cake and Graham Crackers. They say, "We loved having all of our favorite treats there and hope our guests liked it!"

Marble Slab Celebrates National Pizza Month by offering FREE samples of Ice Cream Pizza on October 24

2011-10-14T15:04:00.000-07:00

October is National Pizza Month and to celebrate, Marble Slab Creamery® plans to reward customers with a free sample of Ice Cream Pizza on October 24 from 3-6pm.* This innovative ice cream treat comes in three different preparations including Chocolate Lover’s, Supreme and Cheese. The pizza sample giveaway on October 24 will feature a sample square of the cheese ice cream pizza.

• Chocolate Lover’s – Red Icing, White Chocolate Curls, M&M’s and Chocolate Sprinkles

• The Supreme – Red Icing, White Chocolate Curls, Cherry Disks, Crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups®

• Cheese – Red Icing, White Chocolate Curls

In addition to National Pizza Month, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout October, Marble Slab will support Breast Cancer Awareness by donating $1 from every Ice Cream Pizza sold to Susan G. Komen for the Cure®.

To order your Marble Slab Creamery Cake or Ice Cream Pizza visit http://www.marbleslab.com//. We also invite you to become our Facebook fan or follow us on Twitter.

* While supplies last. Limit one offer per guest during the day of the promotion. Counts vary by store. Valid only at participating U.S. stores. No purchase necessary.

Meghan & Jeremy - Sept. 10, 2011

2011-10-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

Marble Slab Creamery in lieu of Groom's Cake? Why not?! When Meghan and Jeremy started planning their 9-10-11 wedding and met us at The Reserve at Bluebird Hill bridal open house, Jeremy knew immediately that our Portable Slab had to be his "groom's cake". And of course, Vanilla Bean and Butterfinger, Jeremy's favorite combination, had to be on the menu!

At their tasting session, Meghan and Jeremy decided on three more ice cream flavors: Chocolate Swiss, Black Cherry, and Praline. We loved catering this wedding and working with some of our favorite wedding pros--Jan Hall with The Reserve at Bluebird Hill, JoPhoto (thanks for these awesome images), The Knoxville Photo Booth, Jim Ogle Entertainment, Lisa Foster Floral Design, Calhoun's catering, and White Table--on this awesome party.

Meghan and Jeremy are a fun couple and their wedding certainly reflected their vivacious personalities. The reception hall was decorated with black linens with zebra print, pink, and lime accents.

Mixin choices included gummy bears, fresh strawberries, homemade cookie dough, M&Ms, Butterfinger, Oreo cookies, pecans, and sprinkles.

The festive cake was designed by The Perfect Ending Cakes.

Bridal bouquet by Lisa Foster.

Calhoun's provided appetizers on the veranda and then a delicious dinner of Beef Filet or Shrimp and Chicken Skewers.

Creamy deliciousness!

The Reserve at Bluebird Hill.

Katie & Gary - August 27, 2011

2011-10-04T17:54:00.000-07:00

Sweet elegance. There's just no other description for Katie and Gary's fabulous wedding reception! We met Katie at a Bridal Open House this past year, and let me just say that working with Katie and her family was a genuine joy. They were so gracious and appreciative of everything!

Katie chose our Portable Slab as dessert option for the 300 person reception at The Orangery in Knoxville. Our Marble Slab Creamery station was set up in the downstairs indoor courtyard, a really lovely setting with the stone fountain, flowers, twinkling lights, and sculptures. Guests were offered a choice of four ice cream flavors--which Katie chose during a Tasting Session at our creamery--and eight mixins including fresh strawberries, raspberries, candies, and nuts. Throughout the evening, Marble Slab's servers prepared one-of-a-kind combinations for each guest on our portable frozen slab.

Many thanks to the very talented Tara Kneiser of Dixie Pixel for these beautiful images!

Sweet wishes to you both, Gary and Katie!

New fans traveled over 4,000 miles for Marble Slab Creamery!

2011-10-03T18:24:00.000-07:00

Please let me introduce you to a lovely couple and our newest fans from Berkshire, UK, Cal and Craig, who scheduled a stop at Marble Slab Creamery in Fountain City while they were in the States celebrating their 25th anniversary!

John and I met Craig a couple of years ago during a visit to England to see our daughter who was studying abroad at Swansea University. We immensely enjoyed getting to know Craig and found that even though we were an ocean apart, we had many of the same interests and experiences--family, children, and work. So, when Craig contacted us to let us know that he and Cal would be on holiday in the U.S. and wanted to make a stop at our Creamery, we were thrilled!

After spending several days on the West Coast seeing San Francisco, the Redwoods, Alcatraz, the Grand Canyon, and Las Vegas, the Thatchers stopped for an entire day in Knoxville before heading home. The day began with an English tea lesson. Craig had shipped a package ahead of time with instructions to open only after they arrived. Inside were gifts of Welsh cakes, loose-leaf tea, a British teapot, and mugs commemorating the Royal Wedding!

After tea time, the rest of the day included a tour of downtown, UT campus, Bleak House (thank you, Jessie Krueger!), and a special stop at Marble Slab Creamery for a lesson on ice cream production, and of course, ice cream sampling! Craig and Cal were amazed with the variety of flavors--Pumpkin, Key Lime, Peanut Butter, Cheesecake, Red Velvet--not just your usual Vanilla (although our Vanilla is award-winning!).

"We really, really enjoyed it. Such fun - and all those amazing flavours! We are majorly deprived in the UK," says Cal. "It was a very memorable visit."

It was so much fun reconnecting with Craig, and finally meeting Cal, truly a very lovely person. I'm looking forward to staying connected with my new British friends, and perhaps someday we'll get back across the pond for a personal visit with them! Cal shared her recipe for Welsh Cakes with us, so I thought our fans might enjoy it as well.

Blessings,
Sheila
Welsh Cakes
1 lb. Self-Rising Flour
4 oz. Lard (or white vegetable fat)
3 oz. Butter
6 oz. Sugar
6-8 oz. Dried Fruit (currants, sultanas/golden raisins)
2 Eggs, lightly beaten
Splash of milk
Mixed spice to taste (optional)

Rub the fats into the flour until the mixture resembles bread crumbs. Stir in the sugar, dried fruit and mixed spice (if using). Add the eggs to the dry mixture along with enough milk to make a firm dough.

Roll out to about 1/4" thick and cut into 3" rounds. Cook on a hot griddle stone greased with butter. (Once the griddle is hot, these cakes do not take long to cook on each side.)

Party Perfect -- ICE CREAM Cupcakes!

2011-09-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

Ingenious! Ice Cream Cupcakes! Perfect for parties, these cute treats have a layer of cake topped with gourmet Marble Slab Creamery ice cream and toppings. Available in 6-packs at $9.99 each. Order online or call 865.281.0408 in Fountain City (4885 North Broadway) or 865.933.4770 in Kodak (Exit 407).

Jack-o-Lantern Cupcake - Chocolate Ice Cream and Chocolate Cake!

Cherry Chocolate Cupcake - Chocolate Ice Cream with chocolate cake topped with chocolate sprinkles and a cherry.

Birthday Cake Cookie Dreams - Birthday Cake Ice Cream with chocolate cake topped with an Oreo® cookie and fudge that gives it its crowning touch.

Chocolate Heaven Cupcake - Chocolate Ice Cream with chocolate cake topped with fudge and a Hershey's® Kiss®!

Cotton Candy Carnival Cupcake - This dreamy cupcake is adorned with a marshmallow topping and M&M's® and beckons with the flavor of our carnival-style Cotton Candy Ice Cream.

Pink Flower Cupcake - Birthday Cake Ice Cream with yellow cake and pink sprinkles

Wear Orange Today for LADY Pat Summitt!

2011-08-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

The Facebook event calling for people everywhere to wear ORANGE today in support of Coach Pat Summitt went viral in less than two days! That just shows you that Coach Summitt is truly loved and respected in our Volunteer community. Coach Summitt is not only a coaching legend--all-time winningest coach in NCAA basketball history (men or women), with eight NCAA Championships--but is also the true LADY of the Lady Vols. She is involved in the community, helps raise money for local charities and is an example of poise and dignity. Summitt's student-athletes have a 100 percent graduation rate for all Lady Vol student-athletes who have completed their eligibility at Tennessee. And today, first and foremost she is an educator and role model to her players, showing them how to face adversity with bravery and determination since the announcement that she has early-onset Alzheimer's disease.

Like the rest of you, we are HUGE fans of Coach Pat Summitt, and to honor her fight, today when you stop by Marble Slab Creamery in Fountain City (4885 North Broadway) or Kodak (Exit 407 near Bass Pro Shop) wearing ORANGE, you get a FREE extra mixin with any ice cream purchase! We LOVE you, Pat!!!

Paige & Phillip - August 13, 2011

2011-08-23T18:33:00.000-07:00

Sweet, sweet, sweet! That's all I can say about beautiful Paige, her family, and precious little Ella. So, it's no wonder that Paige and Phillip would choose to celebrate their wedding with an awesome dessert reception at Hunter Valley Farm. Paige sings with us in choir at Sevier Heights Baptist Church, so it was extra special that she asked Marble Slab Creamery to cater a Sundae Bar for her reception.

Paige and Phillip offered their guests a Marble Slab Creamery Sundae Bar with choices of Sweet Cream or Chocolate Swiss ice cream.

Besides Hot Fudge and Caramel, toppings included pineapple, strawberries, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, toasted pecans, Oreo cookies, and sprinkles.

Yes, the result is LOVE! Guests always enjoy building their own unique Sundaes!

Remember, this was a "sweet" reception...complete with Cotton Candy and Caramel Apples...

...a sweet and sour candy bar...

...these lovely monogrammed vanilla and chocolate cupcakes by All Occasions Catering...

...and homemade pie! Phillip loves pie, so a display of homemade pies was especially in his honor. Notice the tree stumps/pie stands? Paige found these on the side of the road and envisioned this creative display. I also love the glass bowl/pear pie stand!

Paige chose a color scheme of lime green, navy blue, and ivory and it was so pretty in the reception hall at Hunter Valley Farm.

Hunter Valley's owner, Nancy Elmore, always does a lovely job with all the table scapes and floral arrangements. This is such a pretty use of hydrangeas, spider mums and moss.

More use of pretty pears against the lime green table runners.

Precious little Ella was a superb Flower Girl! She's getting a treat after the ceremony.

Thank you, Paige and Phillip! We loved being a part of your wedding celebration, and we are wishing you scoops and scoops of happiness in the years ahead!

Blessings,

Sheila

Marble Slab's Wedding Week Continues!

2011-08-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to all of you who stopped by our booth yesterday at Knoxville's Pink Bridal Show! We loved meeting everyone of you and are excited to be filling our calendar with 2012 Weddings!

Marble Slab Creamery will be exhibiting at two more wedding events this week and we'd love it if you'd plan to take advantage of checking out these fab local wedding venues and stop by our table to chat and sample our delicious ice cream!

Here's the scoop:

Tuesday, August 9, 5-8 p.m.
The Pavilion at Hunter Valley Farm invites you to their Summer Design and Facility Open House. Nancy will be showcasing her style with lots of table florals and linen combinations plus you'll meet some of Knoxville's best caterers and other wonderful wedding pros.

Thursday, August 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
The Reserve at Bluebird Hill will be hosting a Wedding Open House. You can look forward to seeing Rex Bradford Jones Catering, Knoxville Catering, Rosa's, Lisa Foster Floral Deisgn, Ogle Entertainment, JoPhoto, All Occasions Party Rentals, Perfect Ending, and more!

Come See Us at the Pink Bridal Show on Sunday!

2011-08-02T04:56:00.000-07:00

Marble Slab Creamery will be exhibiting at the Pink Bridal Show on Sunday, August 7, at the Knoxville Convention Center and we'd love to meet all you ice-cream lovin' brides and grooms!

We're already booking for 2012 weddings and are excited to share with engaged couples how Marble Slab Creamery can make their wedding reception truly unique. Here's a sneak preview of our new Wedding Video we'll be sharing at the show--highlights of some of our favorite weddings from the past couple of years.

Blessings,
Sheila Thigpen - Marble Slab's Wedding Consultant in East Tennessee
info@marbleslabcatering.com

Mandie & Patrick - June 10, 2012

2011-07-28T16:40:00.000-07:00

Mandie's Wedding Cake Sundae: Pound Cake with Birthday Cake Ice Cream, Yellow M&Ms, Whipped Cream, and Yellow Sprinkles

Sunshine in a cup! That's what I think of when I see this sweet, refreshing ice cream dessert Marble Slab Creamery created especially for Mandie and Patrick's June wedding reception at the Knoxville Zoo. Being the truest of Marble Slab ice cream fans, when Mandie and Patrick met us at a bridal event last year they knew we would be perfect for the fun wedding reception they had in mind.

After deciding on our Premium Sundae Bar, which included two flavors of ice cream, six toppings, sundae fixins' (hot fudge and caramel, whipped cream, sundae nuts, and cherries) plus pound cake and brownies, the idea evolved to create signature Bride and Groom sundaes. The results were Mandie's Wedding Cake Sundae and Patrick's Chocolate Covered Strawberry Sundae. They're both dee-lish-us!!

Patrick's Chocolate Covered Strawberry Sundae: Fudge Brownie with Strawberry Ice Cream, Fresh Strawberries, Hot Fudge and Whipped Cream

A couple of weeks before the big day, Mandie and Patrick and their awesome wedding photographer, Christy Foreman, stopped by our creamery for a special wedding Sundae photo shoot. We dished up their creations in glass bowls and Christy shot a few photos that were used as menu cards at the reception. Guests could choose one of these signature sundaes or had the option of creating their own using the toppings the couple had chosen to offer.

Remember that "sunshine in a cup" stuff? Well, Mandie and Patrick's wedding theme included plenty of happy yellows. I loved the table arrangements of bright yellow sunflowers and yellow roses in custom bamboo vases with black satin ribbons. They were the perfect touch for the Knoxville Zoo's exotic outdoor pavilion. Kudos to the Zoo's wedding coordinator, Ashley Shaloup, for an awesome job!

Yellow table covers, sunflowers, candles, and twinkle light romance.

The Marble Slab Premium Sundae Bar included our Strawberry and Birthday Cake ice cream flavors, pound cake, brownies, fresh strawberries, gummy bears, yellow M&Ms and sprinkles, Oreo cookies, pecans, as well as hot fudge and caramel, whipped cream, sundae nuts and cherries. Yep, pretty much sunshine in a cup!

Thank you, Mandie and Patrick, for choosing Marble Slab Creamery and for making our job so much FUN! And thank you, Christy Foreman for sharing these awesome photo memories!

P.S. For more fun, be sure to check out Christy Foreman's blog post Mandie & Patrick Are Married!

Erin & Bo - July 9, 2011

2011-07-21T18:10:00.000-07:00

I could barely wait to share the highlights with you from Marble Slab Creamery's experience catering Erin and Bo's very dramatic dessert reception! To start off, Erin and Bo chose the historic Tennessee Theatre as the venue for their ceremony and reception. Let's just say, "WOW!" The Tennessee Theatre is a magnificent building, rich in history, stunning decor, and is just simply GRAND. This classic kissing photo by Ancelet Photography should be on the cover of a movie magazine!

Erin and Bo's reception included a Marble Slab Creamery Ice Cream Social offering guests a choice of three flavors--Sweet Cream, Strawberry, or Chocolate Swiss. Ice cream cups were served on hammered silver trays and then guests helped themselves to a variety of yummy toppings.

The ice cream topping station was arranged so that guests could help themselves to the same options on either side of the table. With 400 guests expected to flow through food stations in the theatre lobby, we wanted to make this table both beautiful and functional.

Since the reception was in the lobby of the Tennessee, we arrived a bit early to make sure our equipment was in place before guests started filing into the auditorium for the ceremony. Because of this, we had the rare opportunity to actually "attend" the wedding. We slipped into the balcony to watch the nuptials, listen to the string quartet, and gaze at the auditorium's majestic domed ceiling! Erin's grandfather officiated the ceremony, and offered some very sage advice to the young couple. To Bo: "Cherish Erin and her beauty will continue to blossom over the years." And to Erin: "Admire your husband and give him your support daily." That's good advice for any married couple!

Flowers by Lisa Foster Floral Design -- lovely, of course!

These next few images are my snapshots of the service area. Above is Marble Slab Creamery's Ice Cream Social and Topping Table. With the lights dimmed, our topping table was quite elegant with simple votive candles running through the center of the glass serve ware. [I was honored by compliments received on our display from Rex Bradford Jones, who is known as one of Knoxville's top wedding caterers.]

Once again, Rex Bradford Jones, owner of Abner's Attic, delivered a lovely display of delicious finger sandwiches, luscious fruit, chicken fingers, chocolate fondue, mini cheesecakes, and brownie dessert shooters.

Don't you just love this? Chocolate Chip cookies and glasses of milk!

Erin, the beaming bride, with her bridesmaids and handsome groom, Bo.

Thank you, Erin and Bo, for choosing Marble Slab Creamery to help celebrate your special day! And many thanks to Tracie Ancelet, Ancelet Photography, for the awesome images!

P.S. Here's a bit of wedding trivia I found on the Tennessee Theatre website:

First wedding at the theatre, 1936: Double wedding held in a palace: Brothers Claude and Ben Easterday married their fiancées during a double wedding at the Tennessee Theatre. The brothers were the winners of a contest sponsored by the Knoxville Journal newspaper that awarded them an all-expense paid wedding and a host of gifts provided by local merchants. The ceremony was a public event. "There were more than 2,000 people at the wedding, and they were lined along the streets trying to get into the theater," Claude R. Easterday recalled in 2001. "The Tennessee was completely lit up with candles like a big cathedral."

Celebrate! Sunday, July 17, is National Ice Cream Day!

2011-07-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

When you get the urge for a snack on a hot, humid summer night, what's the first thing that comes to your mind? Ice cream! Therefore, it's only fitting that ice cream be given it's own special day. On this day, Marble Slab Creamery hopes you will enjoy an ice cream cone, a sundae, a milk shake, or one of our delicious ice cream cakes!

To help you celebrate, here's a $3 OFF coupon for any Large or Sheet size Marble Slab Creamery ice cream cake.

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month and the third Sunday of the month as National Ice Cream Day. He recognized ice cream as a fun and nutritious food that is enjoyed by a full 90 percent of the nation's population. In the proclamation, President Reagan called for all people of the United States to observe these events with "appropriate ceremonies and activities."

"Ronald Reagan lived and led with a spirit of optimism and good humor. As we celebrate the Centennial of his birth, National Ice Cream Day, designated by President Reagan, is a great time to honor his life and legacy and enjoy this wonderfully American treat," said Stewart McLaurin, executive director of the Reagan Centennial for the Reagan Foundation. "Here at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California, we have a large cooler of ice cream treats, and I always think of Ronald Reagan and National Ice Cream month when I enjoy one."

Approximately 1.5 billion gallons of ice cream, including both hard and soft-serve, are produced each year. The U.S. ice cream industry generates billions in annual sales and provides jobs for thousands of citizens. About 9 percent of all the milk produced by U.S. dairy farmers is used to produce ice cream, contributing significantly to the economic well-being of the nation's dairy industry.

Source: www.holidayinsights.com and the International Dairy Foods Association

Tori & Kevin - June 26, 2011

2011-07-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

Tori and Kevin are another fun-lovin' couple and ice cream fans as well. Marble Slab Creamery was honored to cater our Ice Cream Social for their wedding at Butterfly Gap Retreat. Here are a few favorite shots captured by our friend, Tonya Ailshie, of Your Reflections Photography.

This little guy is surveying the possibilities for topping his ice cream.

Decisions, decisions. Which ones? Which ones?

Choices included fresh strawberries, pineapple, Heath bar, chocolate chips, sprinkles, and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups--a popular favorite!

Love this beautiful shot of the newlyweds, Tori and Kevin, by the pond at Butterfly Gap Retreat! Thank you for including Marble Slab Creamery in your celebration! God Bless you both!

Haley & Josh - June 11, 2011

2011-07-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

Find Happiness Within.

A few weeks ago Marble Slab Creamery catered our first wedding at The Whitestone Country Inn in Kingston, TN. Haley and Josh booked our Ice Cream Sundae Bar last August after the Premier Bridal Show for their June 2011 wedding. (And yes, we are currently booking for 2012!)

We were especially excited about this wedding because The Whitestone Country Inn is one of our favorite B&Bs. In fact, John and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary weekend at the Inn a few years ago. The staff is very friendly and professional, and the setting is just ideal.

Me and my awesome assistant for the evening, Jenny Lackey.

The Sundae Bar was set up on the "back porch" at the Lion and Lamb, Whitestone's gorgeous reception hall.

Haley chose to serve Marble Slab Creamery ice cream as a compliment to The Whitestone buffet and wedding cake. Guests had a choice of Birthday Cake or Chocolate Swiss ice cream which they could top with Butterfinger, white chocolate chips, fresh strawberries, pecans, sprinkles, and Reese's peanut butter cups.

We would then top it all off with either Hot Fudge or Caramel, whipped cream, sundae nuts, and a cherry.

What could be better than that??!!

Josh and Haley licking the cream! (Instead of cutting the cake!)

Josh and Haley had a great time at their reception, as did all of their guests. There was plenty of food, desserts, music, and fun for all! I really enjoyed working with this sweet couple. They are so gracious and truly lovely people inside and out!

As for The Whitestone Country Inn, not only is it a romantic Bed and Breakfast, the Inn also offers complete wedding services including the services of a minister, musicians, Wedding Director Deneise Lane, horse-drawn carriage, florist, videographer, and their renown in-house food service.

And, as you'll see from the following photographs, for Haley and Josh's wedding it was an absolutely gorgeous summer evening. Our friend, Sabrina Dowdy (Photography by Sabrina) shared these lovely photos with us--thank you, thank you!!! What follows truly depicts a fairy tale wedding.

Once upon a time, there was a handsome prince...

...and a beautiful princess...

...and they fell in love...

...and were married at a gazebo overlooking the lake...

...the happy couple was swept away in a horse drawn carriage...

...and they lived happily ever after!

Carrie & Jason - May 29, 2011

2011-07-01T09:22:00.000-07:00

Thanks to this sweet bride, Marble Slab Creamery now holds the title of WEDDING ROCKSTAR! Carrie and Jason were married at Butterfly Gap Retreat (one of our favorite venues, by the way) on Memorial Day weekend. And I must say, this wedding goes into our Top Five category...every detail was absoultely fabulous! Carrie and Jason have the reputation among their friends of throwing a great party and they wanted their wedding to be the greatest, most unforgettable experience ever.

Carrie moved to Knoxville from Chicago, so she wanted to hold her wedding in a location that showcased the beauty of East Tennessee but was also modern and fun. Nestled among lush acres of forest with a private lake, Butterfly Gap Retreat offers a unique reception hall with lovely views and modern architecture. The space was adorned with stunning arrangements by Leah Kidd McCall of Whimsical Gatherings. Leah adds a personal touch to all of her arrangements, just look at this pretty ribbon and brooch around the vase.

Carrie and Jason treated their guests to a delicious buffet by Rex Bradford Jones of Abner's Attic, luscious cakes by Magpies Cakes, and an Ice Cream Social by Marble Slab Creamery. We served two of Carrie's favorite flavors, Sweet Cream and Chocolate Amaretto, and guests had a choice of toppings so that they could create their own favorite combinations.

Topping choices included raspberries, a great compliment to Chocolate Amaretto.

M&Ms add a little colorful fun.

Shredded coconut and fresh strawberries.

A chocolate assortment of crushed Reece's peanut butter cups, Oreo cookies, Heath bar, and pecans for a little extra crunch!

And now about being a WEDDING ROCKSTAR...all of the wedding vendors were honored with this display of Red Velvet cupcakes by Magpies Cakes and a Thank You message from the bride and groom. What a thoughtful and sweet touch!

Carrie's sons created and named their own Marble Slab Creamery combinations and offered these suggestions for the wedding guests--the Carson Elite Treat and Zach Cream Attack.

The new family. We were very touched by the toast presented by Carrie's oldest son.
These boys know they're getting a great Dad.

And now to showcase another awesome WEDDING ROCKSTAR...Tara Kneiser of Dixie Pixel Photography. These shots are stunning...and so are you, Carrie! Thanks so much for sharing your talent with us, Tara!

Marble Slab Declares July 11 “Red Head Appreciation Day”

2011-06-29T14:12:00.000-07:00

Marble Slab Creamery Will Give Away Free Scoop of Red Velvet Ice Cream

To help celebrate the launch of Marble Slab Creamery's new Red Velvet Ice Cream (making its debut in stores on Friday, July 8), we've declared Monday, July 11, 2011, Red Head Appreciation Day.

On Monday, July 11, 2011, from 3-6 p.m. we'll be giving away a free scoop of Red Velvet Ice Cream to anyone who has red hair, no matter if its natural, dyed or a wig.*

Red Head Appreciation Day is a great way for Marble Slab Creamery to engage our customers with a tongue-in-cheek holiday, and we hope everyone will come by our Fountain City or Kodak locations with their real or fake red hair and try our new Red Velvet Ice Cream for free!

* While supplies last. Limit one offer per guest during the day of the promotion. Counts vary by store. No purchase necessary.

Ice Cream + Mixins + Frozen Marble Slab = SMILES

2011-06-22T19:14:00.000-07:00

It seems we're often talking about how much kids love it when Marble Slab caters a party. But let's face it, even more sophisticated palates love Marble Slab Creamery ice cream. Or could it be that there's still a suppressed kid deep inside all of us? Ice cream just creates smiles. See what I mean?

A couple of weeks ago, the director of marketing and sales at Asbury Place Maryville, hosted a Spring Celebration for their St. Clair Apartment Home expansion and requested Marble Slab cater a Dessert Demonstration with our Portable Slab. With approximately 125 people in attendance, Marble Slab was truly a hit on a very warm day in June. For some attending the event, it was their first experience enjoying ice cream the "frozen slab" way.

After the event, we were thrilled to get this note from Asbury Place Maryville: "This was unlike any other event we have ever planned on our campus. The response was overwhelming, and everyone was so complimentary on the quality of ice cream and toppings Marble Slab provided for our celebratory event. Marble Slab Creamery provided a first class catering experience for our event – You honestly could not find a better group of people to work with for such an important event. Thank you so much for providing a terrific product and service. We will definitely be using you again."

Stephanie & Scott - June 18, 2011

2011-06-21T17:44:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we had the pleasure of catering our Sundae Bar at a lovely country wedding for a really sweet couple and their sweet families at the picturesque Twin Cedar Farms in Maryville. Obviously, God was smiling down on Stephanie and Scott, because just an hour before the outdoor ceremony, the all-day storm broke and clear skies took over! I'd say that is a marriage blessing!

Stephanie put a lot of creativity into the details of her wedding. The purple and apple green color scheme was carried through the guest tables with burlap table runners trimmed in purple cording, antique hobnail milk glass vases filled with purple tulips, pretty purple and green plaid sundresses for the flower girls, and the showstopper ring bearers in starched white shirts, purple bowties, and dress denim overalls.

These little fellas were just too darn cute! Stephanie's nephews were more than excited to pose for this "advertisement" with their Marble Slab ice cream! I believe they were some of our happiest guests at the reception. A big thank you goes to our friend, Tonya Ailshie of Your Reflections for these fun photos!

I believe you'd call that an Ice Cream Moustache. Got ice cream? Looks like it's all gone to me!

The children weren't the only ones who enjoyed our treats, however. It never fails that Marble Slab Creamery causes a little unexpected excitement among reception guests of all ages.

Don't you just love this last photo Tonya captured of the evening sky at the farm?

Shauna & Arthur - April 30, 2011

2011-06-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

Just couldn't wait to share more from this fabulous wedding we catered at The Bleak House in April. John and I have gone to churhc with Shauna's family for many years and so it was really special to be asked to cater Marble Slab's Sundae Bar at their reception. Shauna and Arthur are the sweetest match, and we wish them much happiness! I'll let the video speak for itself, but trust me, this wedding was beautiful--just like the bride.

Again, we were blessed to be working with some of Knoxville's awesome wedding professionals: Kristi Wright (Ever After Events & Weddings); Kelsey Dotson (The Bleak House); and Lisa Foster (Lisa Foster Floral Design).

Mindy & Scott - May 7, 2011

2011-05-26T18:53:00.000-07:00

We had the best time catering our Marble Slab Creamery Sundae Bar for Scott and Mindy's wedding at Chilhowee Hills Baptist Church earlier this month. When we first met at their Tasting Session, I knew they were a special couple, easy going and friendly, just really nice folks...and ice cream LOVERS! My kind of people, for sure!

And I mean the whole family LOVES ice cream...just look at little Conner!

Mindy and Scott chose to give their guests a choice of Sweet Cream or Double Dark Chocolate ice cream and a variety of yummy toppings (fresh strawberries, blueberries, chocolate chips, sprinkles, Oreo cookies, and Reece's peanut butter cups) all garnished with gooey hot fudge or caramel, whipped cream, nuts and cherries. No one was disappointed!

Mindy's wedding coordinator, Bethany Brown, first contacted us after seeing our rack card at Lisa Foster Floral Design. (Thanks, Lisa! Those Peonies were beautiful, by the way!). Bethany was wonderful and I certainly hope we get the chance to work together again soon!

And I always say, there's nothing better than cake AND ice cream. Just look at this beautiful creation by my friend Regina Long, cake designer for Rosa's Catering...fabulous!

Wedding Cake: Rosa's Catering
Flowers: Lisa Foster Floral Design
Photography: Rhonda Thompson Photography (Thanks so much, Rhonda, for these lovely photos!!)

Marble Slab "Shakes Up Summer" With 16 New Signature Shakes to Debut Each Week

2011-05-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

Marble Slab Creamery is "Shaking Up Summer" beginning May 27, by introducing a new signature shake each week for 16 weeks throughout summer.

Four of the new signature shakes to be released will introduce exciting ice cream flavors including Pretzel Ice Cream, Red Velvet Ice Cream, Oatmeal Cookie Ice Cream and Hazelnut Ice Cream.

Marble Slab Creamery's "Shakes Up Summer" New Signature Shake line-up includes:

Raspberry Delight – May 27 Sweet Cream Ice Cream, Strawberries, Raspberries, Strawberry Puree, Whipped Cream, Raspberry Garnish
Strawberry Shortcake – June 3 Strawberry Ice Cream, Yellow Cake, Strawberry Puree, Whipped Cream, Strawberry Puree Garnish
The Pretzel – June 10 Pretzel Ice Cream, Pecans, Fudge, Whipped Cream, Pretzel Pieces Garnish
Peach Berry – June 17 Peach Ice Cream, Raspberries, Simple Syrup, Graham Crust, Whipped Cream, Graham Crust Garnish
Rocky Road – June 24 Chocolate Swiss Ice Cream, Chocolate Chips, Marshmallows, Simple Syrup, Whipped Cream, Chopped Walnuts Garnish
Red, White and Berries – July 1 Sweet Cream Ice Cream, Cheesecake Chunks, Raspberries, Graham Cracker, Simple Syrup, Whipped Cream, Graham Crust Garnish
Red Velvet – July 8 Red Velvet Ice Cream, Chocolate Cake, White Chocolate Chips, Simple Syrup, Whipped Cream, Chopped Pecans Garnish
The Coffee Bar Shake – July 15 Coffee Ice Cream, Snickers®, Heath Bar®, Simple Syrup, Whipped Cream, Hershey Syrup® Garnish
Birthday Cake – July 22 Birthday Cake Ice Cream, Yellow Cake, Assorted Sprinkles, Whipped Cream, Assorted Sprinkles Garnish
Amaretto Coffee – July 29 Amaretto Ice Cream, Chocolate Cake, Almonds, Coffee Simple Syrup, Whipped Cream, Chopped Almonds Garnish
Banana Split Shake – August 5 Chocolate Swiss Ice Cream, Bananas, Strawberries, Fudge, Whipped Cream, Cherry Garnish
Oatmeal Raisin Cookie – August 12 Oatmeal Cookie Ice Cream, Raisins, Marshmallow Cream, Granola, Whipped Cream, Granola Garnish
Cookies N' Cream in my Coffee – August 19 Coffee Ice Cream, Chopped Oreo® Cookies, Simple Syrup, Whipped Cream, Chopped Oreo® Cookies Garnish
Bananas Foster – August 26 Vanilla Ice Cream, Bananas, Caramel, Whipped Cream, Cinnamon Garnish
Labor Day Lake Trip – September 2 Strawberry Ice Cream, Chocolate Cake, Simple Syrup, Whipped Cream, Hershey Syrup® Garnish
Hazelnut- September 9 Hazelnut Ice Cream, Simple Syrup, Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Syrup

Marble Slab's Five-Year Bash Funniest Photo Contest--Winner Gets FREE Ice Cream for a Year!

2011-05-02T18:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks so, so much to our Fountain City Marble Slab friends and neighbors who came out to help us celebrate our fifth business anniversary a couple of weeks ago! The entire day was fun-filled with local celebrity scoopers Russell Biven and Steve Phillips (WBIR) and Matt Hinkin (WATE meterologist), The Knoxville Photo Booth, plenty of ice cream treats, and our special guests from Emerald Youth Foundation. In appreciation of the support of the community these past five years, 20 percent of the day's receipts were donated to Emerald Youth Foundation, a urban youth ministry.

At our celebration, we promised a Funniest Photo Contest with the best shots captured by The Knoxville Photo Booth. The contest kicks-off today on our Facebook page. We've created a photo album of the funniest shots and ask our fans to LIKE their favorites. If you happen to be in one of the photos, you are encouraged to ask your friends to LIKE our Facebook page and then LIKE your photo. The photo with the most LIKES on Thursday, May 19, will win FREE Ice Cream for a Year!* So good luck...start voting!

* FREE ice cream for a year is equal to one FREE ice cream treat each month (limited to a total of no more than 24 Free treats per party in photo).

Matt Hinkin, WATE meterologist, is a veteran celebrity scooper...

It seems Russell Biven and Steve Phillips of WBIR were having a little trouble NOT goofing off during their shift! See more of the day's fun captured by our friend Tonya Ailshie of Your Reflections below:

Dawn Nichols and the Knoxville Photo Booth brings plenty of fun and laughter to any event!

Service with a smile!

Anticipation!!

Yes, you may have seen these people in Marble Slab uniforms in the past!

This little guy is one happy customer!

John and I enjoyed chatting with our customers all day--thank you!

I "think" these are some of the Emerald Youth friends.

I "know" this is our friend Shannon Kelly and family. Smile!

More smiles and happy customers!

Thank you, Fountain City friends! And don't forget to check out the Funniest Photo Contest on our Facebook page!

Thanks, Tonya! We love your photos!!

A Smoky Mountain Wedding: Jennifer & Spence, April 16, 2011

2011-04-28T18:07:00.000-07:00

When we met Jennifer & Spence at the Premier Bridal Show last August, they immediately knew that Marble Slab Creamery's Premium Sundae Bar would be a perfect addition to their wedding celebration at Bluff Mountain Inn, a lovely venue nestled in the Smoky Mountains.

Their Premium Sundae Bar included our famous Sweet Cream and Chocolate Swiss ice cream, gooey hot fudge and caramel, plus homemade brownies, pound cake, fresh strawberries, and a variety of candies and nuts. Topped off with whipped cream, sundae nuts and cherries, the possibilities for the happy couple's guests were literally endless!

This particular April Saturday was especially blustery, but nothing could hamper the happiness oozing from this party--you could never tell that the wind was really chilly from these smiles! Bluff Mountain Inn offers several wedding and reception sites on the property including a Chapel Arbor, a vine covered Pergola, or the scenic lawn surrounded by weeping willows and the natural beauty of the gardens.

Jennifer and Spence chose Bluff Mountain's pavilion as their reception site. The pavilion offers plenty of room for guest tables, multiple buffets, and a dance floor. Every detail of the day was attended to by the Inn's hostess Rhonda King and her daughter, Jennifer Arnold, and all with plenty of smiles and efficiency!

I love this shot of Jennifer dancing with one of Spence's sons! How lucky are the boys in this family!

Another unique feature of Bluff Mountain Inn is that they have a resident professional photographer, Rhonda's husband, Rick King, RIK Photography. Thanks to Rick for providing us with these beautiful images.

Jennifer had this to say after the wedding:

"We would highly recommend the Marble Slab Ice Cream Catering for any type of party. They provided a sundae bar for our wedding reception and it was a huge hit for young and old. Also, my groom and I made sure that we got some ice cream though we didn't get to eat much else. Delicious!! Thank you, Marble Slab."

And, we thank you, Jennifer and Spence! Scoops of happiness to you!

The Bleak House: Last Open House Before Wedding Season Blasts Off!

2011-04-26T17:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, wedding season for Marble Slab Creamery of Fountain City is about to blast off--literally! We'll be catering a record number of weddings in the Knoxville area this year, and so it's fitting that I catch up on blogging before the craziness sets in! First up, a look at our last open house for the Spring, hosted by The Bleak House and their awesome events' coordinator, Kelsey Dotson.

Marble Slab Creamery featured an Ice Cream Social on the sun porch and served samples of our award-winning Chocolate Swiss and Vanilla ice cream. (Yes, Marble Slab Creamery was awarded blue and red ribbons in the National Ice Cream Retailers Association Awards last year!)

Our "semi-self-serve" ice cream social features a table display that resembles the popular wedding "candy bars" and allows guests to top ice cream with a variety of fruits, candies, and nuts.

It's always an honor to be invited to participate in these events with other fabulous wedding vendors. One of my favorites (as I've stated many times) is the wonderful Lisa Foster of Lisa Foster Floral Design. She is also award-winning, one of her bouquets won first place in the Florists Review's Picture-Perfect Wedding Winners! I just happened to capture her in action, but my photography doesn't do this bouquet justice at all. Trust me, it was lovely!

Do you dance? If not, you must meet Emily Loyless of Academy Ballroom of Knoxville and get a few lessons before that Father-Daughter dance!

Kelsey Dotson did a wonderful job coordinating the open house--I'm so excited for the opportunity to work with her again this weekend at the Lonas-Kirkland wedding!

Vendors in the garden included Moonlight Photographic, Ira and Sandy Smith, very artistic, contemporary photo journalists. You'd love working with them!

The gardens at Bleak House span four levels leading down to the Tennessee River. On Saturday, Marble Slab Creamery will be catering our Sundae Bar at the wedding reception of Shauna Lonas and Arthur Kirkland in the Bleak House gardens. Be sure follow our blog to see photos after the event.

And, as we always say, there's nothing better than cake AND ice cream. Our friends at Rosa's Catering make delicious, and beautiful, cakes and cupcakes. Rosa's cake designer, Regina Long, is also an award winner. Regina recently was awarded first place in the Wedding Cake Fondant Professional Division of The Great Cake Bake. Knoxville is blessed with many talented wedding professionals and Marble Slab Creamery is proud to be working along side so many wonderful folks.

Don't Forget! Tuesday is Marble Slab's BIG Anniversary Bash in Fountain City!

2011-04-16T16:20:00.000-07:00

Sample photo from Marble Slab Creamery & The Knoxville Photo Booth

We hope YOU will plan to stop by our Marble Slab Creamery in Fountain City on Tuesday, April 19, and help us celebrate our fifth business anniversary in the neighborhood! Buy a treat and we'll donate 20 percent of every purchase to The Emerald Youth Foundation PLUS you can have your photo taken in The Knoxville Photo Booth. In appreciation of your support, with each photo card you'll get a special coupon for a return visit.

Afterwards, we'll be making a slideshow of the funniest photos. You could win FREE ice cream for a year if your photo gets the most votes on our Facebook page*. So stop by our celebration on Tuesday, April 19, and stay tuned for the Marble Slab Funniest Photo Contest details!

Several local "celebrity scoopers" will make appearances throughout the day, including Jimmy Holt, WIVK morning show producer; Kim Hansard, Star 102.1 morning show co-host; Steve Phillips and Russell Bivens, WBIR-TV Channel 10; Dave Foulk, NewsTalk 98.7; and others.

* FREE ice cream for a year is equal to one FREE ice cream treat each month.

You're Invited! Marble Slab to Celebrate 5 Years in Fountain City

2011-04-11T04:42:00.000-07:00

Marble Slab Creamery will celebrate their fifth business anniversary for their Fountain City store in Knoxville, TN on Tuesday, April 19. The Creamery, located at 4885 North Broadway is owned by John and Sheila Thigpen. In celebration of this milestone, 20 percent of the day’s proceeds will be donated to The Emerald Youth Foundation, a neighborhood Christian, urban youth ministry that serves over 1,200 students each year.

“We are very blessed to be a part of this community,” said owner John Thigpen, “and we wanted to express our appreciation to the folks in this neighborhood for their support of our business by giving to a charity that specifically serves North Knoxville. We welcome everyone to come celebrate with us.”

Emerald Youth Foundation offers afterschool, nightly, and weekend programs that focus on the development of faith, education, relationships, and health for each child.

“We look forward to sharing in the celebration of Marble Slab Creamery’s fifth anniversary in Fountain City. John and Sheila Thigpen are wonderful friends of Emerald Youth Foundation, and their commitment to our city’s urban young people is much appreciated. Guests who stop by on April 19 will taste some delicious ice cream in addition to learning about our ministry with Knoxville ’s urban youth,” said John Crooks, marketing and communications director for Emerald Youth Foundation.

Festivities for Marble Slab’s anniversary celebration will include appearances by local “celebrity scoopers” throughout the day, including Kim Hansard, Star 102.1 morning show co-host; Steve Phillips, WBIR-TV10 sports anchor; Dave Foulk, NewsTalk 98.7; and others. Patrons will also have an opportunity to take a photo in an old-fashioned photo booth provided by The Knoxville Photo Booth Company from 4:00-8:00 p.m. The photos will be free, but guests are encouraged to make any size additional donation to Emerald Youth Foundation for the photo.

Marble Slab is on the Social Bandwagon

2011-03-24T05:19:00.000-07:00

Marble Slab Creamery of Fountain City and Kodak is excited to jump into the social bandwagon with both feet and we hope you'll join us! We'd love it if you'd be our Friend/Follower/Fan so we can share awesome ice cream news and special deals!

Here's where you can find us:

Facebook
Twitter
Foursquare (Newbies get 50% off on their first check-in! Every three check-ins upgrade to a Chocolate Dipped cone with ice cream purchase for FREE!)

Foursquare - Marble Slab in Fountain City
Foursquare - Marble Slab in Kodak/Exit 407
Become a Facebook follower of our Blog
Join Marble Mail - The official Marble Slab Creamery fan club for birthday surprises and more!

And, be sure to bookmark our local Marble Slab Creamery catering website!

Marble Slab's going GREEN for St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-16T18:19:00.000-07:00

Come by Marble Slab Creamery in Fountain City or Kodak on St. Patrick's Day, Thursday, March 17th, and if you're wearing green, we'll give you $1 OFF one of our NEW Happy Sundaes!

If you're lucky enough to be Irish, you're lucky enough!

Restrictions
Offer expires 3/17/2011. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Only valid at these locations.

Peanut Butter Bliss Sundae: Peanut Butter ice cream with Reece’s Peanut Butter Cups, Reece’s Pieces, fudge & whipped cream

An Evening to Remember: Bride's Night 2011

2011-03-02T04:23:00.000-08:00

When our photography friends, Julie Roberts and Shannon Kelley, contacted us about partnering with them on a bridal event they had dreamed up, we knew it would be something special! And oh, it was! On a chilly January evening about 75 ladies gathered at Club LeConte in Knoxville for Bride's Night--an opportunity for Julie and Shannon to honor their past, present, and future Brides. The evening began with time for Brides to chat with some awesome wedding vendors followed by entertainment, food, great door prizes and swag bags for everyone! Club LeConte was elegant with table linens by White Table and organic flowers by The Blooming Earth.

It's always nice running into our friends Ryan and Ashley Sutton! We first worked with Ryan last September at the Kohlbusch-Huddleston wedding at Maple Grove Inn--phenomenal videography! Check them out at http://www.ryansproduction.com.

Of course, Marble Slab Creamery provided an ice cream dessert for the evening, and we decided to try something really unique, Tiramisu Ice Cream Cupcakes--a chocolate cake layer, Tiramisu ice cream, chocolate or vanilla whipped frosting dusted with cocoa powder and topped with a chocolate dipped espresso bean. These little treats were definitely a hit!

Kristie McCarter, one of our 2011 Brides! We'll be catering with our Portable Slab at her September wedding at Sampson's Hollow--can't wait!

What could be better than cake and AND ice cream? Our friend Regina Long is the master cake designer at Rosa's Catering. She is truly one of Knoxville's finest and her cakes are delicious!

After entertainment by the Knoxville Performing Arts Academy (no kidding...there were hip hop dancers, belly dancers, and the awesome Sizemology performers) Brides got onto the dance floor to compete for prizes.

Really, hip hop...

...and belly dancers!

John and Sheila Thigpen, Marble Slab Creamery

The party was a huge success, much in part to Lorie Fox-Robledo of The Ribbon Cutters, a professional party and event management company based in Knoxville, TN.

Thank you, Julie and Shannon, for a truly memorable party and for these awesome images!

Is Your Dream Wedding Vintage, Elegant or Country Romance?

2011-02-26T05:55:00.000-08:00

Are you still looking for the perfect venue to host your dream wedding? This week you can take advantage of checking out what we feel are truly beautiful wedding sites--and each unique! Marble Slab Creamery will be at each of these events showcasing our gourmet ice cream catering for weddings. We hope you'll stop by to meet us--we'd love to serve you on your special day!

For a Vintage Wedding: The Reserve at Bluebird Hill.
Open House - Monday, February 28, 5:30-7:30 p.m. (To RSVP, call Jan Hall at 865-680-8099 or email janrhall@bellsouth.net.)
The Reserve will make your special day one of the best memories of your life. They offer a covered porch, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and 75 acres of rolling hills with views of the Smoky Mountains.

For An Elegant Wedding: The Orangery
The Wedding Feast - Saturday, March 5, 2:30-5:30 p.m. (By invitation only. Contact Natasha Lusk, Marketing and Special Events coordinator, at 865-588-2964 or email nlusk@orangeryknoxville.com to reserve your place for this fun and exciting event.)
The Orangery's magnificent atmosphere and old French charm lends itself to a perfect Wedding.

For A Country Romance Wedding: Whitestone Country Inn
2011 Annual Bridal Show, Sunday, March 6, 12:00-4:00 p.m. (For tickets, please contact the events office at 888-247-2464 or email Deneise@whitestoneinn.com)
Romantic Whitestone Country Inn sits atop a hill overlooking a majestic view of Watts Bar Lake, a beautiful setting for both indoor and outdoor weddings.

Are you up for today's Extreme Kindness Challenge?

2011-02-17T06:56:00.000-08:00

It's Random Acts of Kindness Week. Today’s Extreme Kindness Challenge: Bring a treat to your work/school or someone in your neighborhood. Marble Slab Creamery in Fountain City and Kodak wants to help you with the challenge. Print this post (or show it to us on your phone) and TODAY you can Buy One Pint, Get One Pint FREE of our yummy ice cream to share. We challenge you! Make someone smile today. Share our treats! Valid only Feb. 17, 2011 at these locations (4885 North Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37918 - 3609 Outdoor Sportsmans Place, Kodak, TN 37764).

My Valentine's Day at the Slab, 2011

2011-02-14T19:44:00.000-08:00

6:00 a.m. - Make a really early ice cream delivery to WVLT VolunteerTV Early Show for a short Valentine's Day segment on Marble Slab Creamery's national promotion, Free Samples of Tiramisu Ice Cream on Valentine's Day. Were any of you awake to see the anchors sample the ice cream and show our Strawberry Heart Cake and Chocolate Dipped Strawberries? (Confession: John made the delivery, but last night I programmed the coffee pot to brew coffee early this morning.)

6:50 a.m. - Sip my coffee and watch Michelle Silva and the crew mention Marble Slab Creamery's Valentine sweets and promo.

8:30 a.m. - At Panera for a quick breakfast and another coffee jolt--much needed after the early delivery!

9:15 a.m. - Pick up pink balloon bouquets at Party City to make things more festive at the Slab for V-Day.

9:45 a.m. - Start sorting and finish boxing those yummy Chocolate Dipped Strawberries for our corporate orders.

11:00 a.m. - Deliveries, deliveries, deliveries. Many thanks to our corporate partners! Especially to Lisa Foster Floral Design who had an awesome Cash-n-Carry drive thru tent set up for sellinng roses AND Marble Slab Chocolate Dipped Strawberries. So cool!

12:00 p.m. - The SLAB is open for business! Continue decorating cakes and dippin' those berries!

2:00 p.m. - Get Tiramisu samples ready for the FREE give-away from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

3:00 p.m. - Scoop ice cream, decorate cakes, box berries and tie bows on gift boxes...repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

6:00 p.m. - Leave the SLAB in the capable hands of my super scoopers to serve our evening customers--all you sweethearts out on dates, wink-wink :)

Me & My Valentine!

7:30 p.m. - Candlelight dinner at home (Italian take-out) with my one and only. Maybe we'll have a little ice cream for dessert :)

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

--Sheila

Marble Slab Creamery Joins Chef Tony at Bridal Extravaganza at Butterfly Gap

2011-02-08T19:45:00.000-08:00

Marble Slab Creamery, Portable Slab Catering

What an awesome day we had at Butterfly Gap on Sunday! We feel so fortunate to be working with some of the premier wedding professionals in East Tennessee.

Our friend, Tony McClanahan, of First Fruits Catering (shown here with his Shrimp Cocktail Tulips) did a fabulous job coordinating the afternoon soiree.

Strawberry Cupcakes by First Fruits

And as usual, Mandy Sitzlar and Laura Lockwood exhibited plenty of Southern hospitality at their beautiful facility in Maryville, TN.

Mandy Sitzlar, Jennie Andrews, Laura Lockwood

We also met a wonderful new florist friend, Samantha Andersen of Mulberries (who by the way provided beautiful flowers for the event) and ran into an old friend and photographer extraordinaire, Jennie Andrews.

Jennie Andrews gettin' down and pretty darn excited about sampling some Black Cherry ice cream!

But, the best part of the day? We booked a wedding on site! So, so excited to have been chosen by Jeni and Michael to return to Butterfly Gap with our Portable Slab for their July wedding. It's gonna be a blast!

Find Your Sweet the Perfect Valentine Gift at Marble Slab Creamery

2011-02-05T05:50:00.000-08:00

If you're still trying to decide what to give your Special Someone this Valentine's Day, let me make a few sweet suggestions that are sure to please anyone, but especially these distinct personalities. In his book "What Flavor is Your Personality?" Dr. Alan Hirsch uses the results of a personality survey to match people's traits with their favorite foods, including ice cream. So don't just take my word, it's scientific!

Chocolate Passion: Lively, creative, dramatic, charming, enthusiastic, and the life of the party. They are seductive, well-dressed, extroverted, easily influenced, a follower, intuitive, and enjoy intimate relationships. They could charm the birds from the trees, and their enthusiasm and creativity add to their allure. Usually the center of attention in social situations, they bask in the spotlight and can become bored with the usual routine. Chocolate-y personalities believe love is all about passion and excitement.

Perfect Valentine Gift: Chocolate Dipped Strawberries from Marble Slab. An assortment of both dark and white chocolate berries, it's a gift every one will love, but especially the Chocolate lover.

Sweet Strawberry: The thoughtful, logical person who carefully weighs each option before making decisions. More a follower than a leader, they are content and effective working behind the scenes and out of the limelight. In relationships, they are often characterized as shy and reserved. Although thye don't fall head-over-heels in love at first sight, once they commit to a relationship, they are loyal and supportive.

Perfect Valentine Gift: A Marble Slab Strawberry Ice Cream Heart Cake, strawberry ice cream topped with fresh strawberries and whipped creme frosting, this dessert guarantees plenty of smiles and hugs.

Coffee Lover: These special people are lively, dramatic and flirtatious--thriving on the passion of the moment. Because they throw themselves into all that they do, they tend to be over-committed, starting new projects without finishing old ones. They tend to become bored by dull relationships and thrive on new and exciting ventures.

Perfect Valentine Gift: Marble Slab's new Tiramisu Crunch Cake, layers of Tiramisu Ice Cream, yellow cake mixed with Nestle’® Crunch® and coffee syrup, trimmed with chocolate better crème and dusted with dark cocoa. Devine!

To place orders for pick up in Fountain City (4885 North Broadway, Knoxville, TN) - call 865-281-0408.
To place orders for pick up in Kodak (Exit 407, near Bass Pro Shop) - call 865-933-4770.

Marble Slab Creamery of Fountain City Receives WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011

2011-01-26T18:15:00.000-08:00

Knoxville, TN – January 26, 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Marble Slab Creamery of Fountain City has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for Wedding Caterers!

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Marble Slab Creamery of Fountain City stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Marble Slab Creamery for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that Marble Slab Creamery is among the very best Wedding Caterers within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information, please visit Marble Slab's WeddingWire Storefront today.

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit http://www.weddingwire.com/.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire.com, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors and also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge

Marble Slab Creamery Customers to Receive FREE Sample of New Tiramisu Ice Cream on Valentine's Day!

2011-01-19T14:02:00.000-08:00

This Valentine’s Day, Marble Slab Creamery will show customers some “amore” by giving away a free sample of our new Tiramisu ice cream from 3 to 6 pm on Monday, February 14th.*

Marble Slab Creamery is excited to share some love this Valentine’s Day by giving away a free sample of our new Tiramisu ice cream and hopes that by giving back a gourmet treat to our customers, everyone will feel special on this holiday.

In addition to the free Tiramisu ice cream sample giveaway on Valentine’s Day, customers who pre-order a Marble Slab Creamery Ice Cream Cake online or in-store between February 1, 2011 and February 10, 2011 will receive a free small Tiramisu Crunch Tasty Creation.

The Tiramisu Crunch Tasty Creation includes:

Tiramisu Ice Cream
Yellow Cake
Nestle Crunch
Fudge

To order your Marble Slab Creamery Ice Cream Cake or to find out more information about the Valentine’s Day Tiramisu ice cream sample giveaway, customers can visit www.marbleslab.com.

* While supplies last. Limit one offer per guest during the day of the promotion. Counts vary by store. No purchase necessary.

A Wintry Wedding Evening at Hunter Valley's Open House

2011-01-11T19:13:00.000-08:00

Even with snow on the ground and a chilly breeze, brides and grooms who braved this week's winter blast found plenty of warmth and festivity at tonight's Bridal Open House at Hunter Valley Farms in Knoxville, TN. Along with some of our favorite wedding professionals, Marble Slab Creamery was on hand to serve prospective couples and answer questions about our wedding catering options.

Tonight we showcased our Ice Cream Social, an interactive dessert bar, and chose to decorate with a winter theme--silver and ice blue with a little mood lighting.

Guests were served our award-winning Vanilla ice cream and were given choices of fresh strawberries, candies, and nuts as toppings.

Rada Rolison and Regina Long of Rosa's Catering--great girls to work with and delicious Napa Cabbage Salad!

Here I am with THE fabulous Lisa Foster of Lisa Foster Floral Designs with some of her amazing bouquets!

Jim Ogle of Special Notes, the evening's Master of Ceremonies.

Our lovely hostess, Nancy Elmore and her Mom, owners of Hunter Valley Farm. The Pavilion looked gorgeous tonight and showcased Nancy's creative table settings and arrangements.

I love this couple! Jo and Kathleen of JoPhoto were making the rounds as an engaged couple (they weren't working tonight) and stopped by to try out our treats. Congrats to Jo and Kathleen, who will be tying the knot in April at Hunter Valley!

Next stop...The Reserve at Bluebird Hill.

Get the Bling? Then Ring in the New Year with FREE Wedding Shows!

2011-01-02T11:21:00.000-08:00

If you are one of the many couples who got engaged over the holidays, congratulations! Let the wedding planning begin! (More than one-third of all engagements occur each year during the Christmas season.) January is the time to take advantage of the many FREE bridal events in the Knoxville area which feature some fabulous venues and wedding pros - photographers, florists, wedding planners, videographers - and the list goes on.

Marble Slab Creamery will be exhibiting at each of the following events, and we'll be showcasing something different at each one! Please mark your calendars and and take advantage of these wedding planning opportunities. We hope to see you there!

Friday, January 7, 7:00 p.m. --UPDATE: will be rescheduled due to expected snow.
Bride's Night Out! at The S&W Grand, 516 South Gay Street, Knoxville, TN. A night out with the girls complete with great food, giveaways, dancing, and fun hosted by two of our favorite photographers, Julie Roberts and Shannon Kelly. This event is by invitation only, so please visit the event site for details.

Tuesday, January 11, 5:00 p.m.
Hunter Valley Farms Open House, 9111 Hunter Valley Lane, Knoxville, TN. For more information, call 865.691.8225.

Thursday, January 13, 4:00 p.m.
The Reserve at Bluebird Hill Open House,1411 Midway Rd., Lenoir City, TN. For more information, call 865.988.9093.

Sunday, January 16, 2:00 p.m.
Twin Cedar Farm Bridal Event, 1107 Martin Mill Pike, Maryville, TN 37853. We're offering a 10 percent discount on all Marble Slab Creamery bookings secured with a deposit at this show! To register for this event, email Tonya at yourreflections@hotmail.com or call 865.306.2144.

Sunday, January 23, 4:00 p.m.
Down The Aisle With Style, a Bearden Station Bridal Show, 6622 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919. For more information contact The White Table or call 800.314.6758.

Sunday, January 23, 2:00 p.m.
Gettysvue Country Club Wedding Open House, 9317 Linksvue Drive, Knoxville, TN 37922. For more information call 865.522.4653.

Saturday, January 29, 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
North Knoxville's Best Bridal Show, Beaver Brook Country Club, 6800 Beaver Brook Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918. For more information contact Eddie Smith at 865.689-5177.

And later in the Spring...
Sunday, March 6, 12:00 p.m.
Whitestone Country Inn Bridal Show, 1200 Paint Rock Rd., Kingston, TN 37763. For tickets, please contact the events office at 888-247-2464 or email Deneise@whitestoneinn.com.

Love, Peace, and Joy to you!

2010-12-20T07:10:00.000-08:00

On this Monday before Christmas, I'm blessed to be enjoying the presence of my family and a full house for the week! Our lovely daughters both arrived home late last week--one from grad school in Seattle and the other returning from a visit with her Sorority sister to the Big Apple! We'll be busy wrapping gifts, doing a little last minute shopping for stocking stuffers (by the way, Marble Slab Creamery gift cards are a great idea!), baking cookies and other goodies, attending parties, and visiting with friends and family. The spirit of the season is in full swing...people are happy, smiling, and for the most part, joyful this time of the year.

Our week will end with a Christmas luncheon at our house for more than 20 people including my siblings, nieces, nephews, in-laws, grandparents, and boyfriends. We'll be oohing and aahing over the gifts, the food, the children, all because we celebrate a miraculous birth in a manger so long, long ago. My wish for you is a Christmas full of love, peace in your heart, and joy in your life.

As 2010 ends and we look forward to 2011, I want to congratulate these lovely couples who have contracted with Marble Slab Creamery to cater gourmet ice cream at their wedding receptions next year and wish them all Scoops of Blessings and Happiness! Thank you for allowing us to celebrate with you!

Jennifer Buhl & Spence Baumgardner - April 16, 2011

Shauna Lonas & Arthur Kirkland - April 30, 2011

Emily Beal & Ben Hyman - May 28, 2011

Mandie Thacker & Patrick Beeler - June 10, 2011

Haley Chambers & Josh Manuel - June 11, 2011

Ashley Garner & J.J. Thomas - July 16, 2011

Order holiday ice cream cakes online at http://www.marbleslab.com/

Peppermint Passion & Parties!

2010-12-10T04:43:00.000-08:00

Bring on the Peppermint! I don't know about you, but one of my favorite flavors of the season is Peppermint, and I especially love topping our Peppermint ice cream with Hot Fudge. It's a tasty, cool sensation--remember the York Peppermint Patties commercials of the 70's and 80's? Anyway, this past weekend Marble Slab Creamery catered the membership holiday party at Gettysvue Country Club and our menu included a fabulous Peppermint Fudge Sundae: Marble Slab's Peppermint ice cream topped with hot fudge, whipped cream, sundae nuts and a cherry, served in a homemade white chocolate-dipped waffle bowl with red and green sprinkles for a little festivity.

Thinking that some guests might not be as passionate about Peppermint as I am, we also offered our classic favorite, Sweet Cream and Strawberries. The guests absolutely raved over the Peppermint Fudge Sundaes, and for the first time Sweet Cream and Strawberries had to take a back seat!

It was a repeat performance last evening at the Wells Fargo Advisors' holiday party for 200 of their employees and clients at Brookview Town Centre. Many hosts don't think about serving ice cream for events this time of year, but even on a chilly evening like last night, we find that people love ice cream during any season. One guest commented to our server, "I saw you last week at Gettysvue. I love this idea and Marble Slab ice cream! When will I be seeing you again (at a party)?"

At the Wells Fargo holiday party we served our Premium Sundae Bar which included three flavors of ice cream--Peppermint, Vanilla, and Chocolate Swiss--Fudge Brownies and yellow cake (for making Fudge Brownie Delights or Strawberry Shortcakes), hot fudge and caramel, plus fresh strawberries, pecans, M&Ms, Oreo cookies, Butterfinger, and sprinkles. Guests love the options and the fun of creating their own special ice cream dessert.

Our wonderful hosts, Christine and Charles Schilleci, of Wells Fargo Advisors.

We ran into our friends from Knoxville Photo Booth at the party...great fun for any event!

Planning a party? We'd love to help make it extra special! Contact Sheila, catering consultant, at 865-603-2466 or email info@marbleslabcatering.com. Visit http://www.marbleslabcatering.com/ for more info. Happy Holidays!

Ice Cream Martinis for the March of Dimes

2010-11-30T05:09:00.000-08:00

John and I were thrilled to once again participate in the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction a couple of weeks ago at the Knoxville Convetion Center. Signature Chefs Auction features a tasting of many favorite area restaurants and raises money for the local March of Dimes chapter. We were so glad for the opportunity to showcase Marble Slab Creamery's gourmet ice cream in this up-scale culinary event and are looking forward to meeting the winner of our silent auction package - a Sundae Bar party for 40 friends!

This year more than 600 guests were in attendance. During the program the Wyatt family - Matt, Wendy, and Gage - shared their story. Gage, who was born weighing 3 pounds 12 ounces, and spent six weeks in intensive care, is now a healthy 3-year-old.

For the occasion we featured a couple of our favorite ice cream flavors: Chocolate Amaretto (a very rich, dark chocolate) and Pumpkin (a seasonal flavor). For the Chocolate Amaretto martini, we topped the ice cream with chocolate sprinkles and whipped cream and garnished with a Pirouette cookie. And for the Pumpkin Ginger martini, we drizzled caramel, topped it all with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, plus my homemade Ginger Cookie as a garnish. The guests loved the combinations and we couldn't be more pleased with that!

This was our fourth year participating in this charity event--the biggest and best yet! This year we decided to carry over our flavor theme by decorating our station with miniature pumpkins, my chocolate-colored candlesticks, and a carved pumpkin vase of Fall flowers. I added to the tablescape by incorporating a scattering of yellow rose stems in apples (found this elegant, yet simple "fruit stand" idea from a Southern Living Christmas book!) and votive candles on top of a beautiful linen by White Table. Many thanks to our staff for providing great service and to Barry Seaton of Seaton Shoots Photography for these beautiful images from the evening. To learn more about this charity, visit the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Facebook page.

'Tis the Season for ANOTHER Sweet Giveaway in Knoxville! Marble Slab Creamery + JoPhoto

2010-11-13T07:10:00.000-08:00

We are so pleased to partner with our good friends at JoPhoto for another super-sweet giveaway in our Knoxville, TN area Family Fun Friday Contest! You can win a Family Holiday photo shoot from JoPhoto AND a $45 gift card from Marble Slab Creamery!

Are you a sprinkle lover?

To get in on this sweet giveaway, follow these 3 simple steps:

1. Follow JoPhoto and Marble Slab Creamery on Facebook.

2. Suggest both pages to your friends.

3. Complete the following sentence and post on Facebook: “My favorite Marble Slab ice cream combination is ___________.”

The winner will be announced on Friday, November 19, and will receive a free Family Holiday photo session from JoPhoto and a $45 gift card to Marble Slab Creamery!

Please note: Family Holiday photo sessions are only for the Knoxville, TN, area.

The winner of the November 12 giveaway is Amanda Person! Congratulations, Amanda! Email us at info@marbleslabcatering.com to claim your prize!

'Tis the Season For a Super-Sweet Giveaway: Marble Slab Gift Cards AND Family Photos by JoPhoto!

2010-11-09T19:13:00.000-08:00

We are so pleased to partner with our good friends at JoPhoto for a super-sweet giveaway for two lucky winners in Knoxville, TN in our Family Fun Friday Contest! You could win a Family Holiday photo shoot from JoPhoto AND a $45 gift card from Marble Slab Creamery!

To get in on this sweet giveaway, follow these 3 simple steps:

1. Follow Marble Slab Creamery and JoPhoto on Facebook.

2. Suggest both pages to your friends.

3. Post this on your wall: “I entered to win the Family Fun Friday Contest from Marble Slab Creamery and JoPhoto you should too! LIKE both pages and enter to win!”

The first winner will be announced on Friday, November 12, and the second winner will be announced Friday, November 19. Both winners will receive a free Family Holiday photo session from JoPhoto and a $45 gift card to Marble Slab Creamery! Use the gift card as a Christmas gift, buy ice cream cakes for your holiday party, or treat yourself and your friends to a tasty night out!

Gift cards make great stocking stuffers!

Please note: Family Holiday photo sessions are only for the Knoxville, TN, area.

Our family photo taken earlier this year by JoPhoto.

Ever thought about taking engagement photos in an ice cream parlor?

2010-11-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

So you want your wedding pictures to be something different? You want something fun and something memorable? Well, if you said yes to all these then don’t pass this photographer up! Tonya, owner of Your Reflections, has an eye for art and a personality that will keep you smiling. She takes great care of her customers and treats them like friends rather than just customers. Her prices are ridiculously low, starting at only $700, and the quality is amazing.

As we all know, planning your wedding can be stressful and sometimes you just need to let your hair down and have a little fun. That’s just what Brittany and Storm did last week with Your Reflections. After taking some engagement photos in the old city, they decided to swing by our Fountain City location for some ice cream treats and a good time.

Your Reflections is offering a special to all our friends. Just mention this blog and pay no sitting fee (a value of $55) and get a 8x10 for only $10 bucks--no other purchase required! Plus, this Saturday, November 6 from 11 am-3 pm visit Your Reflections' new studio and get FREE pics!! All you have to do is make an appointment, tell your friends and show up! You'll get a mini session, and a CD with your five favorite images! Check out Tonya and Your Reflections online at http://www.yourreflections.com/ and on Facebook.

Kelly & Andy - September 19, 2010

2010-11-02T15:42:00.000-07:00

Today I'd like to introduce you to a couple of my favorite wedding clients of the year, Andy and Kelly! Of course, every couple is special, but upon meeting these two, I was immediately impressed by their genuine sweetness and their love for each other.

Initally, Andy and Kelly were a little hesitant about choosing the Portable Slab for their wedding reception, since they expected their guest count to be around 350 and were concerned about everyone being served without experiencing a long wait in line. For large parties like this, I assured them we staff appropriately and have learned a few tricks for making the service as quick as possible while still allowing each guest to "experience" the fun of creating their own one-of-a-kind dessert.

And...the party was a great success! I was so thrilled to read this Tweet from one of the wedding guests later that evening when I got home:

Huddleston wedding...Marble Slab bar, smooth groove band, photo booth, the Jan, beautiful people. What a freakin' awesome night. Bells!

Guests of ALL ages enjoy Marble Slab Creamery. You're never too young or old for ice cream! Also, notice the Knoxville Photo Booth in the background. Guests pile in to snap fun photo strips that are used to create a custom guest book for the bride and groom...love it!

Isn't this just the most beautiful couple? Looks like they are making an ice cream toast for the newlyweds!

Thank you, Andy and Kelly, for choosing Marble Slab Creamery. May your years be filled with scoops and scoops of happiness!

Wedding Venue: The Maple Grove Inn

Flowers: Lisa Foster Floral Design

Photography: Julie Roberts Photography (Thanks so much, Julie, for these lovely photos!!)

The Knoxville Photo Booth Company

Enter Marble Slab Creamery’s 'Perfect Your Party' New Year’s Eve Sweepstakes!

2010-10-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

Enter to win a trip for 2 to New York City for New Year’s! Simply order from Marble Slab Creamery’s selection of gourmet ice cream cakes and pies in our online store between October 15 and November 30 and your name will be entered into the grand prize drawing. The winner will receive round trip air transportation to New York City and Times Square All-Access Passes! (Must be 21 or older to enter.)

HOW TO ENTER: Visit http://www.marbleslab.com/ during the promotion period and order any cake, to automatically receive one entry. All entries must be received by 11:59:59 p.m. ET on 11/30/10.

PRIZE AND APPROXIMATE ODDS OF WINNING: Grand Prize: A 2-night trip for two to New York City to experience New Year’s Eve at Times Square. Prize includes: round trip coach class air transportation from major airport closest to winner’s home to New York City area airport, based on availability, round trip car service to/from airport to hotel, two night accommodations at 4-star hotel in Manhattan (The Benjamin or similar, based on availability), two Times Square All Access Pass tickets for New Year’s Eve and $250 spending money for winner (Approx. Retail Value $4,915).

Sweet! Enter now and enjoy a delicious ice cream cake--perfect for your party or special event!

Marble Slab Creamery Voted East Tennessee's Best Ice Cream 11 Years Running!

2010-10-15T04:57:00.000-07:00

BEST ICE CREAM/FROZEN YOGURT:

MARBLE SLAB CREAMERY

Ice cream is the ultimate summer treat. Popsicles are too cold and are little more than flavored ice. Watermelon has seeds and takes too much time to slice (unless you can hire an out-of-work Gallagher to bust one open for you).

But ice cream is a cold, sweet, multi-textured treat. Plus, at Marble Slab, you can eat ice cream every day of the year and never have it the same way twice.

Marble Slab starts with you choosing one of several homemade, gourmet ice cream flavors, like the decadent, uber-chocolately fudge or the creamy cotton candy.

Next, you'll decide which candies, nuts or fruits to have mixed in with your flavor base. Maybe you'll swirl in strawberries against a cheesecake backdrop. Or perhaps you'll tickle your tummy with some walnuts in the honey. Or you could overload on cocoa with chocolate chips in your double dark chocolate.

Whatever you end up with, it will be an experience well worth repeating.

Source: Knoxville News-Sentinel

Marble Slab Creamery Announces Winning Sandra Lee's Taste of Summer Ice Cream Creation

2010-10-13T04:31:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Madness:
Sweet Cream Ice Cream,
Mint Patties, Chocolate
Sprinkles, Fudge Topping

Memorial Day Madness to be featured in forthcoming cookbook by Sandra Lee
Oct. 12, 2010/PRNewswire: Marble Slab Creamery is pleased to announce Memorial Day Madness as the winning Sandra Lee's Taste of Summer Tasty Creation. Marble Slab Creamery teamed up with Sandra Lee to develop a program that raised awareness for Share Our Strength® and introduced 16 new ice cream Tasty Creations throughout the summer combining Marble Slab's freshly made ice cream with delicious mixins.

Customers were invited to visit http://www.marbleslab.com/ to vote for their favorite Tasty Creation and make their own contribution to Share Our Strength. Marble Slab Creamery donated $25,000 to Share Our Strength.

The winning Tasty Creation, Memorial Day Madness, which received the most online votes, will be featured in Sandra Lee's new cookbook "All American Bake Sale," which is set for release in March 2011.

"It was great connecting with Marble Slab's customers while bringing much needed attention to Share our Strength," said Sandra Lee, editor-in-chief of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine. "I look forward to featuring the winning creation, Memorial Day Madness, in my upcoming cookbook 'All American Bake Sale' due out March 2011."

About Share Our Strength® (http://www.strength.org/)
Share Our Strength®, a national nonprofit, is ending childhood hunger in America by connecting children with the nutritious food they need to lead healthy, active lives. Through its No Kid Hungry™ campaign—a national effort to end childhood hunger in America by 2015—Share Our Strength ensures children in need are enrolled in federal nutrition programs, invests in community organizations fighting hunger, teaches families how to cook healthy meals on a budget, and builds public-private partnerships to end hunger, both nationally and at the state level. Visit Strength.org to get involved in the No Kid Hungry campaign.

Ice Cream Martinis!

2010-10-08T05:01:00.000-07:00

Last week Marble Slab Creamery was invited to participate in the Knoxville Wedding Professionals networking meeting at the Historic Bleak House and we decided to get a little creative...I love the results! We served our ice cream martinis from an ice cream "bar" supplied by All Occasion Party Rentals in crystal martini glasses and we customized the ice cream menu using combinations and specialty garnishes (like my homemade cookies) that are not readily available in our ice cream parlors. This is just one example of our ability to make our Marble Slab Creamery ice cream catering a bit more elegant for formal events.

For the occasion we featured a couple of our favorite ice cream flavors: the NEW Chocolate Hazelnut (a very rich, dark chocolate) and Pumpkin (a seasonal flavor). For the Chocolate Hazlenut martini, we topped the ice cream with chocolate sprinkles, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and garnished with a Pirouette Chocolate Hazlenut cookie. And for the Pumpkin Ginger martini, we drizzled caramel, topped it all with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, plus my homemade Ginger Cookie as a garnish. The guests loved the combinations and we couldn't be more pleased with that!

Thanks to our wedding pro friends who contributed to our success for the evening--Kelsy Dotson at Bleak House, Jason McClure of All Occasion Party Rentals, and Sandra Smith of Moonlight Photographic.

Kelly & Alex – August 14, 2010

2010-09-16T11:45:00.000-07:00

I’ve been waiting all summer to share this wedding story with you ‘cause it just blows my mind! Last November we launched our local Marble Slab Creamery catering website having no idea just how far it might reach. With in two weeks I had my first inquiry from a Bride who wanted to serve ice cream at her August wedding in Maryville. Needless to say, I was thrilled to have a lead in such a short amount of time, but I was literally speechless to learn that Kelly was calling me from her home in London, England! Not to be cliché, but it really is a small world—truly!

Kelly, an American who got her college degree in London and then never left, and her English beau, Alex, chose to be married in East Tennessee where her parents had recently retired. Kelly loves ice cream—and cupcakes (check out her blog An American Cupcake in London)—and wanted to feature our Portable Slab at her wedding reception at the beautiful Butterfly Gap Retreat.

All the details were worked out via email and phone, and then Kelly and I finally met in February during her wedding planning trip to the States for a Tasting Session to settle on flavors and mixins.

Cupcakes and Marble Slab Creamery ice cream were a wonderful combination. These delicious cupcakes were provided by Tony McClanahan of First Fruits Catering.

A special thanks goes out to Wes and Danielle Hope of Hope Photo for these wonderful shots that capture the fun and festivity of a Marble Slab Creamery Portable Slab catering event!

And to Alex and Kelly, we wish you a very SWEET future together! Thanks for allowing Marble Slab Creamery to be a part of your very special day!

Ice Cream Elegance by Marble Slab Creamery

2010-09-04T07:45:00.000-07:00

A quick post for today... Marble Slab Creamery was invited to participate in The Club is Always in Season, Club LeConte's Bridal showcase, last Saturday. For the occasion we chose to serve one of my personal favorites, Strawberry Shortcake, in champagne glasses. Thanks to Sandra at Moonlight Photographic for these beautiful photos.

A look at our table at Club LeConte's Bridal Fair.

Strawberry Shortcake served in a Champagne glass.

Marble Slab Creamery ice cream catering can be as elegant as the occasion.

Weddings, Shows, and Tastings! Oh, My!

2010-08-31T13:14:00.000-07:00

It’s been a busy few weeks for John and I as we’ve been meeting and greeting with lots of wonderful brides and wedding pros (at The Premier Bridal Show and then several other open house events and several private Tasting Sessions at our Creamery) all sandwiched in between catering jobs and weddings! We've met so many nice people and have found that there are some absolutely amazing wedding and reception venues available in our area. I thought I’d take a few minutes to share some of our favorites from the past few weeks.

Butterfly Gap Retreat Lovely venue and lovely hostesses! We so much enjoyed working with Butterfly Gap’s Mandy Sitzlar (and Mom Jackie and sister Lauren) when we featured our Portable Slab at the wedding of Kelly Caruso and Alex Buhler in July. Located in Maryville, this retreat is off the beaten path and offers unique architecture nestled among 900 acres of quiet natural beauty.

The Orangery One of the best kept secrets in Knoxville, The Orangery features a beautiful indoor courtyard and houses furnishings and antique architectural details that the original owner’s rescued from structures in Knoxville, New York, Paris and numerous other cities around the world. Marble Slab Creamery is honored to be an approved vendor and to be included on The Orangery’s catering menu.

Club LeConte in the heart of downtown Knoxville sports the best panoramic view of notable landmarks like the Smoky Mountains, the Tennessee River, Neyland Stadium and the World’s Fair Park. Marble Slab Creamery is honored to be an approved vendor and to be included Club LeConte's offerings.

The Reserve at Bluebird Hill We had so much fun working with Jan Hall during her Bridal Open House and getting the grand tour of this fabulous new facility. They offer both indoor and outdoor options, lovely views, and let me just say I absolutely love the Bridal Suite!

The Knoxville Zoo If you're looking for a literally exotic wedding site, this is the place! The large tented pavilion is perfect for large parties and offers plenty of space for seating as well as dancing.

Crescent Bend We're thrilled to be working with Judy at this lovely venue along the Tennessee River. Check out the historic house and terraced patio/party area on September 26 when we participate in A Taste of Crescent Bend.

Twin Cedar Farms is lovely farmland complete with large reception venue, gazebo, swimming swans, and a horse-drawn carriage and driver for the Bride's arrival. It was our pleasure to do a Portable Slab catering for Liz & Rusty!

Coming up...a September wedding at Maple Grove Inn...we're so excited that Kelly and Andy chose Marble Slab Creamery to be a part of their special day!

And for all my catering friends, here's a tip...I've discovered a new Thermohauser featherweight container that is quite handy for transporting both hot or cold items. Check them out at SonRidge.

Ice Cream is for ALL Seasons!

2010-08-24T10:36:00.000-07:00

Today here in Knoxville I am enjoying a very pleasant 80-degree, sunshiny day with low humidity! Sitting outdoors just now I'm reminded that despite the many 90+ days we've all experienced here locally, Fall and cooler weather are just around the corner. Let me just say that even though I’m in the ice cream business—and people just naturally associate ice cream with summer—I love the Fall season!

Thankfully, despite the inevitable change of seasons, many people realize that Ice Cream is the perfect treat all year long. Last night I confirmed an ice cream catering for a 30-Year High School Reunion in October and for another private party in November. I also met with a sweet couple that is considering our Premium Sundae Bar for their Fall wedding. Together we came up with some really wonderful seasonal ideas like serving Marble Slab Creamery Pumpkin ice cream on top of our homemade fudge brownies topped with walnuts, white chocolate chips, and hot fudge in champagne or martini glasses. Doesn’t that sound absolutely decadent?

I love working with people to customize our catering menu to fit with the theme of their event. For people who want to be adventurous, we have so many more flavor choices other than Vanilla and Chocolate Swiss (and yes, those ARE our top sellers). For example, if you are planning a holiday party, these pretty Peppermint Slabwiches—handmade with our Peppermint Ice Cream sandwiched between two chocolate Oreo wafers and rolled in crushed peppermints—would be perfect! (NOTE: These are available by custom order only at my Fountain City or Kodak locations. Call 865-603-2466 to order.)

Ice cream is happiness condensed. ~Jessi Lane Adams

Elizabeth & Rusty - July 24, 2010

2010-08-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

John and I had the great privilege of serving at Elizabeth and Rusty's wedding celebration at Twin Cedar Farms a couple of weeks ago. Liz and Rusty--and both their families--were so genuinely nice that I just can't stress enough how much we enjoyed being a part of their special day! Beforehand, Liz and Rusty told us that some of their wedding guests changed their vacation plans so that they would be sure to be in town for the wedding just because they found out they were serving Marble Slab Creamery ice cream. We were flattered to hear that, but feel sure that their love for Liz and Rusty may have had a little to do with their final decisions as well!

The day was picture perfect (although it was a steamy 98-degrees) as Liz arrived for the ceremony by the pond with swimming swans in a horse-drawn carriage. Guests were given lovely fan-shaped programs to help combat the short time in the sun. Afterwards, as they gathered in the reception hall, the wedding guests were thrilled to see Marble Slab Creamery and the portable slab. Liz and Rusty choose to offer four ice cream flavors (Vanilla, Chocolate Swiss, Butter Pecan and Cheesecake) plus choices of peanut butter cups, fresh strawberries, cookie dough, oreos, pecans, M&Ms, fudge and caramel.

Rusty and Liz

Special thanks to Photography by Sabrina for these lovely images and to Kristie Wright, wedding planner extraordinaire (Ever After Events and Weddings), for all her help, organization and encouragement along the way!

Marble Slab Creamery Partners with Alyssa's Army

2010-07-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Alyssa's Army is raising funds for the 2011 Muscular Dystrophy Association Muscle Walk and has teamed up with Marble Slab Creamery for a really COOL fundraiser! Alyssa Weiss is a 7-year-old little girl full of life, but she suffers from mitochondrial encephalomyopathy and struggles daily with normal activities.

You can join Alyssa's Army in their fight against neuromuscular diseases, and specifically mitochodrial myopathies, by pre-ordering Marble Slab's gourmet line of Premium Ice Cream Cakes which are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, special occasions, or simply dessert. When you order a cake from Alyssa's Army you will receive a voucher that can be redeemed at any Knoxville-area Marble Slab Creamery (including Alcoa and Kodak) for up to one full year.

"Let's make finding a cure for muscular dystrophy and mitochondrial myopathies a piece of cake," stated Jamie Weiss, team leader and Alyssa's mom. "This fundraiser will be so easy and simple... who doesn't love ice cream cake!" To purchase an Ice Cream Cake voucher and help support Alyssa's Army, contact Jamie Weiss at 865-233-2257 or by email at alyssasarmy@gmail.com. Don't delay...this fundraiser will end on Monday, August 9.

Marble Slab Creamery has an impressive track record supporting successful fundraising events. With our Premium Ice Cream Cakes Fundraiser, our gourmet flavor can help any organization bring in money by the scoopful! For more info on fundraising with Marble Slab Creamery in the Knoxville area, email Sheila at info@marbleslabcatering.com.

Ashley & Stephen - July 17, 2010

2010-07-23T13:47:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to share with you these really cool, artsy shots of our recent portable slab catering for Ashley & Stephen's wedding taken by a.k. vogel.
The outdoor wedding was at Ashley's parents' lovely lake home in Harriman. I must say, this wedding was absolutely beautiful (as was the bride) and the party after was in full swing for hours! Guests were treated to a bountiful buffet by Rex Bradford Jones, unlimited bar service by BarBop, music & dancing, and their own one-of-a-kind ice cream dessert at our portable slab station. I just love seeing people getting so excited about choosing their ice cream flavor and mixins! There's nothing better than ice cream on a summer evening, don't you agree?