For nearly two decades, Hidden River Events has been more than a wedding venue—it’s been a sanctuary of love, joy, and new beginnings. Nestled in the Swannanoa Valley, it has hosted thousands of couples, each celebrating their forever in a place built with heart, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to community.

September 27, 2024, Hurricane Helene changed everything.

The floodwaters came fast, ripping through the valley with unimaginable force. Jeanne Matthews Sommer, the heart and soul of Hidden River, was stranded miles away, while the river raged. When she was able to return, the devastation was staggering:

A three-bedroom home, a tiny house on wheels, the commercial flower shop, and several storage buildings were all damaged
A brand-new greenhouse, meant to supply fresh flowers for countless celebrations, along with the vintage greenhouse she had lovingly built out of reclaimed materials, and all the commercial flower fields were wiped out.
The office—containing years of memories, records, and equipment—was obliterated.
Wedding essentials—tables, chairs, linens, catering supplies—were scattered across the valley, lost to the raging waters.
The pond–which looked like something out of a Monet painting and where half of the weddings took place–was destroyed.
One of Jeanne’s beloved animals drowned.
Shipping containers, a neighbor’s home, and even cars were swept onto the property, entangled with trees and debris.
4” to 6” of mud was deposited on the ground, with trees, trash, and mounds of sand covering the river area, now clear-cut where forest once had been.

With no choice but to close until spring 2026, Jeanne had to lay off 35 employees, the equivalent of 12 full-time employees and numerous part-timers. A seventeen-year business that had brought 10,000 people per year to the small town and the Asheville area, along with millions in revenue to vendors and local businesses, was brought to a halt.

For someone who has spent her life helping others—donating to survivors of domestic violence, mentoring young people, and ensuring couples could have their dream weddings regardless of budget—she now needs our help.

How You Can Help

Jeanne has already begun the painstaking process of salvaging what she can, power-washing furniture, sanding and re-lacquering tables, and rescuing any surviving pieces—but she can’t do this alone. We’re asking you to join us in restoring this special place.

Rebuild Hope is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit connecting resources to those in need and coordinating reconstruction after Hurricane Helene. They are committed to cleaning and rebuilding the hardest hit areas. Your tax-deductible contribution to Rebuild Hope’s campaign—no matter the size—helps bring Hidden River back to life, ensuring that future couples can experience the magic of this place and that Jeanne can continue her work of spreading love and community.

Use the donate button to help Hidden River!

Let’s not allow Hidden River to become another forgotten casualty of the storm.

Thank you for your kindness, your generosity, and your belief in second chances.

Rebuild Hope for Hidden River Events

By Rebuild Hope

Rebuild Hope for Hidden River Events

Team Members