BOBBY HILL & MARK ARRINGTON
Bobby and Mark are the visionaries who created BobbyMark’s Designs (bobbymarksdesigns.com), the preeminent wedding and event company based in Asheville, North Carolina.
A native of Asheville, Bobby Hill spent his previous career traveling between the east and west coasts, while relentlessly pursuing his love of design. His experience working with Fortune 500 companies instilled in him the importance of placing a priority on his customers, who he truly sees as the heart of his business. Equipped with a solid background in team management and design concepts of color, texture, and placement, he returned to Asheville to create his own company, with a focus on successful event planning and stunning floral design. Soon after, he became the area’s go-to event designer and is in high demand for notable events ranging from high-profile fundraising galas to celebrity weddings.
Bobby Hill & Mark Arrington at Biltmore (Photo: Mozingo Photography)
Originally from Charlotte, Mark Arrington spent over a decade refining his craft in the South Beach, Miami hospitality and special event scene. Mark likes to incorporate his love for modern, contemporary style into the events he designs, but is quick to point out that, above all, he first gets to know his clients personally. Since moving to Asheville, he has added his considerable talents to a number of special area events, including hosting galas for the popular Arts AVL “Color” Balls (red, white, and purple), the Asheville Film Festival, and exclusive events for both Biltmore and Eblen Charities.
What are your favorite places to go for cocktail and /or dinner?
Our favorite watering holes (for cocktails) depends on the day we’re having. LOL! O.Henry’s is a great local gay bar where you can go to chill after work and connect with friends over a good drink. The rooftop at Capella on 9 is the perfect place to get together with clients and friends and to begin an evening of fun. One of our other go-to venues is Hemingway’s Cuba Restaurant & Bar to watch the sunset and enjoy amazing cocktails. Call me old school, but hands-down the lobster ravioli at Bouchon is our favorite! Limones Restaurant is another great place for dinner. Start out with some lobster nachos and a spicy margarita. Their menu is amazing, and you’ll probably see us there when we’re not working.
What cultural attractions or events are a must see for Asheville Visitors?
River Arts District has a little something for everyone. From food and brews to rafting and walking/running trails, its perfect for people of all ages. Of course don’t forget the Friday Night Drum Circle, which is a must to get the full Asheville downtown experience.
A friend is coming to Asheville for the first time. Please describe the perfect weekend?
Since we are located on the west side, we love starting everyone out with a trip to the West Asheville strip. Here you can experience the feel and the vibe of Asheville. Great places to start the morning are Biscuit Head, The West End bakery and Sunny Point Café. When it comes time for dinner and drinks, head to Haywood Common or Thai Pearl. The next day we will explore downtown Asheville and the breweries, art galleries, and amazing food options. There’s so much to see and do downtown that our friends will have to come back again and again to enjoy it all! For entertainment options, we will take them to The Orange Peel for great music, comedy, and live performances, or to Salvage Station, a popular riverside venue with indoor and outdoor stages, live music, and casual outdoor dining. On the third day of our Asheville weekend, we will start the morning in Biltmore Village at the Corner Kitchen, then we will work our way over to Biltmore to enjoy the beautiful outdoor walking trails, gardens, and the fascinating history of this amazing family.
What are the best places to enjoy the natural beauty of the area?
For nature lovers, the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Craggy Gardens. While in the Asheville area, you can also enjoy rafting down the French Broad River and then cap the evening off at any rooftop for sunset views to take in the full panorama of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Craggy Gardens Trail (Photo: Cvandyke)
What is your favorite time of the year and why?
Spring and summer are our favorite times of the year. During this time we spend many days off wading the streams, fishing, or just relaxing and enjoying the sounds and the serenity of the mountains.
What is one locally made product you would suggest visitors should bring back for their friends and family?
An amazing sweet treat from French Broad Chocolates or The Chocolate Fetish. At The Chocolate Fetish try the white chocolate turtles with caramel and cashews…sooooo delish!
French Broad Chocolate (Photo: Andriy Blokhin)
Please finish the sentence: Don’t leave Asheville without…
Definitely don’t leave without enjoying the incredible view of Asheville and Western North Carolina from the Sunset Terrace at The Omni Grove Park Inn. They have amazing food and beverages along with delicious local brews, and it’s the perfect place to share stunning sunsets.
