Not Since You Coupon Code!

If you haven’t had a chance to come by Epting Events or Harry’s Pig Shop yet to purchase your copy of Not Since You, there is a special coupon code for $3 off offered at Film Baby! Enter: nsyvalentine at check out to redeem this offer until February 28.

P.S. Order soon so it is here for Valentine’s day!!

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Not Since You is on On-Demand and DVD!

If you missed Not Since You playing at Cine in April, or if you saw and can’t wait to see it again… it has officially arrived on On-Demand under “New Releases” and is available online for purchase. It was also in the top 50 on iTunes for most downloaded movie!

Ashley and Lee loved being able to bring the movie to Athens and show everyone what a great town we live in. I get giddy seeing the Classic Center, the Tree that Owns Itself and all around downtown Athens.

The holiday season is the perfect time to watch this movie with your family, especially if they are visiting from out of state or if they’ve lived here their whole lives.

We are so proud of Ashley and are so blessed to be able to share this with the Athens’ community, and appreciate all the support!!

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AthFest Featuring: Not Since You

In case you missed the screening of Not Since You in April at Athens Ciné, I’ve got good news for you… it’ll be back this weekend! Come help us celebrate the encore screening of Not Since You with a dinner and a movie Friday night. Harry’s Pig Shop and Epting Events will be providing a great, refreshing summer menu beginning at 6:30 followed by the movie at 7:30.

FRIDAY NIGHT ADMISSION: $15 – SEATING IS LIMITED – PURCHASE ADVANCE TICKETS AT THE CINE BOX OFFICE

The film Not Since You addresses the tensions in distant relationships between friends as they all gather for a wedding in Athens. All are New York University Alumni who graduated after September 11, 2001, and many new relationships are questioned as old relationships surface during the weekend in Georgia.

Here are some quick movie facts:
– It’s the only movie filmed and set in Athens!
– It features the arch, the tree that owns itself, the Athena statue, Jackson St. Bookstore, Wuxtry Records, Ben Epps Airport, Terrapin and Coca-Cola.
– The wedding takes place at the Hill
– Lee Epting, Ashley Epting and some of our staff have cameos!

See you this weekend!!

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Meet Lee Epting by One of our Soon-to-be-Brides

Laura Barron will be getting married August 7, 2010 on the Hill. Laura wrote the following on her blog, Don’t Eat the Flowers. Laura’s family will be providing the rental items from Barron’s Rental for her wedding.

It was fun to read her side of the wedding planning story, so we wanted to feature it on our blog and share the story with y’all!

The Caterer

But to be frank, I’m not even sure I should deem him as the caterer. He is simply the man who “makes the magic happen.” Meet the man who will make my wedding look like a dream and have a taste to match it. I feel like I say every part of wedding planning is the “most fun,” but really hanging out with Lee Epting has been one of the great experiences of the whole planning process. However, I definitely cannot leave out his very lovely partner in crime, Mary, who, in relation to the man “making the magic happen,” must be the fairy god-mother.

Imagine this: You walk into a room with a few picture of what you might like for your big day to be like, and this man creates an afternoon out what you brought. I said, “Rustic, vintage, wistful” and he said, “Willow furniture, Queen Anne’s Lace and chandeliers in the trees.” I said twinkle lights and candles, and he replied, “You cannot have anything but father of the bride lights.” It was as if his creative genius could read my mind. Still, Mary sat with us diligently taking notes… the woman behind it all. And as if that wasn’t fun enough, next thing I knew they were serving us all kinds of food! Ahh, how fun it is to plan a party!

Still, my very favorite part of working with Lee was venturing into his warehouse. As you walk through the doors, there is a canopy of sheer fabric that greets you and, if I remember correctly, I think there was even a full suit of armor standing by the entrance like you see in movies inside the castles. Then, when you walk in, you are surrounded by shelves of creativity. Every kind of chandelier or piece of furniture. Every style. Every type. A lovely collection of odds and ends. I even found a rod-iron table made of a gate that Lee said we could use as the hors d’oeuvre table.

If Disney was still alive, I’d probably tell him to get a hold of Lee Epting. I mean you just can’t help but smile at this man with all his fun ideas, hats and endearing southern accent. What another fun character to add to the bunch at the Barron/Elmer wedding. I do believe I could write about this man all day. But here’s to Lee Epting, and I sure hope you meet him.

To see a wedding at the hill, where mine will be, check out ONCEWED.

ALSO: check out other Epting happenings like Harry’s Pig Shop, Darius Goes West and Not Since You.

Thank you Laura! We’re looking forward to August!

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Not Since You Premieres Tonight at Ciné

“Not Since You,” a feature film set in Athens, Ga., is set to premiere at Athens Ciné Easter weekend.

Click Here to Watch the Not Since You Trailer

Athens will roll out the red carpet and play host to a little piece of Hollywood in the coming weeks. Feature film, “Not Since You,” produced by Epting Events’ Ashley Epting, is set to premiere at Ciné theatre in downtown Athens April 2 through April 15.

The film “Not Since You” addresses the tensions in distant relationships between friends as they all gather for a wedding in Athens. All are New York University Alumni who graduated after September 11, 2001, and many new relationships are questioned as old relationships surface during the weekend in Georgia.

Several historic landmarks and locations throughout the Athens area will be featured on the big screen. Howard Scott, whose property was used in the shooting of the film said, “There are lots of historic buildings and unique settings. It is a great opportunity for filmmakers…location shooting is perfect in Athens.”

Another location featured includes The Hill, a property with renovated plantation homes owned by Epting Events’s owner, Lee Epting. Most of the film takes place on the property, and both Lee and his sons, Daniel and Ashley Epting, have cameos in the film.

Other locations including The Arch, Jackson Street Bookstore, Wuxtry, Athena Statue, and “The Tree That Owns Itself,” are featured in the film.

Several original concert and promotional posters from Wuxtry were featured in the film. Most were by bands who originated in Athens and include: B-52s, REM and Widespread Panic. Dan Wall, the owner of Wuxtry, says “The posters were from the Wuxtry ‘museum’ collection. Some have been for sale and are available for purchase.”

Jackson Street Bookstore in downtown Athens is another location featured in the film. Tony Arnold, who runs the bookstore, commented on the shooting process, “Since we cannot close down the shop during filming, we have certain obstacles to work around, and this crew was quite understanding and flexible.” Jackson Street books has been used for other film productions but never before has its name been used like in “Not since You.” Arnold continues, “Most of the [other productions] have used both interior and exterior, but primarily interior with no mention of the actual store’s name.”

Terrapin Brewery products are placed throughout the set of the film. Dustin “Ranger” Walker of Terrapin Brewery said, “I think it’s great to be included in the film. The use of local companies makes the film feel more authentic. It’s an Athens wedding and the use of a local brewery is a statement about loyalty to one’s community.”

Paul Kramer of the Classic Center comments, “I believe the movie will bring great attentions to the Athens community and I believe the movie will let audiences experience the true beauty of Athens. The movie will make Athenians proud.”

Local companies and professionals were utilized by the crew, as well. Sara Rue, who plays Doogs in the film, worked with Tom Granum on voice lessons during the shooting in Athens. Tom is the music director at First Presbyterian Church of Athens. When asked about his thoughts on the filming taking place in Athens, he said, “It was great to see the professional actors mixing with Athenians.”

Sarah Rue as Sarah

“Not Since You” contains a cast of well-known film and television actors who make up the diverse group of friends from NYU. Desmond Harrington of “Dexter” plays the male lead Sam, and is joined by Kathleen Robertson of “90210,” who portrays Amy. Other actors include: Christian Kane, Sara Rue, Jon Abrahams and Will Estes.

Group Shoot

“Not Since You” will premiere at Athens Ciné April 2 and will run through April 15. Epting Events will host a VIP cocktail party on April 9 at Ciné. The reception begins at 6 p.m., and will include a meet and greet with Producer Ashley Epting. The screening is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. with a short film screening beforehand. Tickets for the event are $40, and include a ticket to the
screening, drinks, and a cocktail buffet. Another ticket option also includes a year-long membership to Ciné, and will cost $75. For advanced ticket purchases and more information about the Ciné membership, please visit Athens Ciné.

For more information about “Not Since You” or Epting Events please visit the following Web sites: www.notsinceyoumovie.com and www.eptingevents.com.

Follow EptingEvents on Twitter for a chance to win 2 general admission tickets to Not Since You! Contest Ends today at Midnight!

Written by Kelsey Banes

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Featured Venue: The Hill

Unique historical charm and natural scenery make The Hill in Athens, Georgia one of the area’s most captivating event locations. Four period furnished homes have been artfully preserved creating a true architectural treasure amidst idyllic surroundings located a few miles from downtown Athens. For your next event, take a step back into time and enjoy this traditional southern retreat filled with charm and heritage.

Venue rental includes:
• Restrooms in main house during event
• House for dressing rooms
• Swimming pool and surrounding patios
• Parking
• Sunken garden ceremony area
• Reception area
• No additional fee for access to grounds for advance set-up

The Sunken Garden Ceremony Site

Sunken Garden Before the Ceremony

Looking Down from the Back Porch of the Donald Epting House

The Backyard

The Main House on The Hill -- Donald Epting House

Wedding Reception in front of the Donald Epting House

In addition to being a stunning backdrop for wedding ceremonies; receptions, these homes are available as rental accommodations on both a short and long term basis. Each home is equipped with a fully functional kitchen, wireless internet connection, cable television and wood burning fireplaces. Enjoy a cocktail on your own private porch, while taking in the tranquil surroundings.

• The Rock House, circa 1920 – a quaint stone cottage. Features cozy bedrooms, two bathrooms –one with a claw foot bath tub, a kitchenette and a fireplace in the living room.

The Rock House

• The Armstrong & Dobbs House – featuring the 1800 master bedroom, din¬ing room, a formal parlor and casual living and kitchen area opening to the large porch. All on the first floor, this house is perfect for entertaining a crowd. Upstairs you will enjoy two large bedrooms, both equipped with spa-tubs in their spacious bathrooms. This home has six fireplaces.

• The Quinn Cottage, circa 1930– a three bedroom bungalow nestled in the trees, with a wonderful sitting porch looking out on the field. This home features a kitchen, dining room, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a fireplace in the living room.

The Hill was is also featured in the upcoming movie Not Since You.

If you’re attending a wedding at the Hill, the address is 1800 Crescent Lane, Athens, GA 30607. Look for a little white sign at the end of the driveway that says “the Hill”. Then follow the parking signs to the designated lot.

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Ashley Epting: CEO of Epting Events and Executive Producer of Not Since You

Ashley Cameron Epting

A native Athenian, Ashley Epting is an entrepreneur and filmmaker who strives to improve the culture and community of his home. With lifelong colleagues, friends, and family, he navigates multiple endeavors and businesses including: Epting Events, Center Stage Catering at The Classic Center, Harry’s Pig Shop, The Hill Properties, & Epting Productions. He is a sponsor and board member of both the Robert Osborne Classic Film Festival and the Atlanta Film Festival; Epting facilitates the majority of events including the festival’s annual opening party. In addition, he also serves on the boards of both the Athens Music & Entertainment Association and the Athens Film Arts Institute.

On the route to his roll as Executive Producer Ashley Epting graduated from the Gallatin School at New York University where he studied film production and dramatic writing at the Tisch School of the Arts. He has worked in film and event management in New York, Alabama, Georgia, Colorado, and California. Epting’s love for place and story evolved while on Semester at Sea while circumnavigating the globe. He shares his love for this experience by holding his place as the Georgia Chapter Representative on the Alumni Board of Directors.

Ashley served as the Festival Coordinator for the Sidewalk Festival in Alabama, and worked on the Academy Award Nominated short Johnny Flynton. This facilitated his move to Los Angeles where he worked as a development assistant with Akiva Goldsman’s production company, Weed Road Pictures.

Ashley is most proud of helping to bring a production to Athens, Georgia, Not Since You, which is a romantic drama about college friends who graduated from NYU. The group finds themselves in Athens, GA for a weekend wedding. The film was produced on the Epting’s property and throughout the Athens area. Ashley was pleased to showcase his unique and beautiful town. Not Since You is the first movie to actually take place in Athens, and not just be filmed here. The movie will debut April 2-15 at Ciné in Athens, GA.

He looks forward to his next project; a television series inspired by the Athens music scene and the UGA Terry College Music Business Program.

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All About Lee Epting

Lee Erwin Epting

A native Athenian, Lee Epting has influenced and helped shape the local community for decades. After transferring from Athens High School, Lee graduated from the Darlington School in Rome Georgia. He studied his freshman and sophomore years at Emory University before returning to Athens to complete his BBA from the University of Georgia in 1967.

His interest in the food industry began while at Darlington, where he volunteered as a bus boy in order to get his shot at a few, uneaten, fried shrimp returned to the kitchen. In college, he joined Phi Delta Theta at Emory, he began running the fraternity kitchen as a business. He catered his first reception for author Erskine Caldwell and fed 125 fraternity brothers three meals a day. This continued at the Georgia chapter and eventually expanded into creating theme parties.

In 1970, Lee restored the Old Southern Depot in Athens, known as “the Station”. This was the beginning of many Athens’ unique businesses such as Aurum Studios, The Grit, Shields Realty, and the noted T.K. Hardy’s Saloon. Lee and his partners also opened his first restaurant, The Valdosta Dining Car, a nightclub called, The Cabaret and The Circus—Athens’ first disco.

Two major bicentennial projects for Lee and his wife, Bobbie, began in 1976. They moved to Chapel Hill, NC, and restored the Southern Depot, opened the second Station restaurant and had a bicentennial son, Ashley.

A year later, Lee sold The Station restaurants and began Lee Epting Catering. He balanced his off premise venture while also managing the restaurant, banquet facilities and the famous Frog Pond Lounge, for the equally famous, Leroy Dukes of the Ramada Inn.

The catering business began with Lee, a cook and a bartender, which has now expanded in its new inception as Epting Events and currently employs 75 employees. With son Ashley, Lee started Center Stage Catering to handle the food service for the Athens Classic Center, serving Athenians and visitors with the same attention and care that client’s of Epting Events enjoy. After hiring executive director, Russel Stalvey, Center Stage Catering has grown in size and reputation as one of the finest hospitality companies in the state.

Lee has major outside interest in historic preservation and he has served as a trustee for the Athens Clarke Heritage Foundation while moving and restoring 14 historic homes in and around Athens, several with his second son, Daniel. Eight houses comprise what is known at “The Hill”, and orphanage for endangered houses. Four of these are used to host weddings, special events, business retreats and are rented for both short and long term guest housing.

Lee has been a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church and Lee also supports many local causes and events such as: the Harvest Moon Land Trust Dinner, the Northeast Georgia Food Bank, Darius Goes West, the Osborne Film Festival, the Atlanta Film Festival, the Unitarian Fellowship Local Dinner, Oconee Hill Cemetery, the Georgia Museum, the Georgia Production Partnership, the UGA Law School Scholarship event, the Athens Historical Society and the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation.

Last year, he opened Harry’s Pig Shop; a restaurant in the Homewood Hills Shopping Center off Jefferson Rd. Harry’s has already been marked on every pork lover’s compass.

His latest venture is the movie Not Since You premiering April 2-15 at Ciné, which was filmed at the Hill and set in Athens.

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