Weddingbee boards

October 2, 2011 is my wedding day, a sunday... I plan on sending out the save the dates by next Friday... However, since about 90% of our guests will be travelingfrom out of town, as close as Fayetteville, but as far as New York, I thought a weekend of optional activities would be a good idea.  What are possible activities for area?? We are having our ceremony and reception at  the Brownstone Hotel off Hillsborough street.  Any suggestions, I'm in the process of looking for a wedding planner, and photographer.  I know exactly what I want but need additional help.  I can see becoming overwhelmed and am not too much of a DIY bride.  Is a wedding weekend too much to handle.  Wedding theme; a taste of the south (or something like that).. Current idea: Thursday, spa/etc with bridesmaids.  Friday, host a meet & greet for out of towners from 5-10pm maybe rent the hospitality suite at the hotel (other suggestions are appreciated), saturday rehearsal 1-3(location unknown), rehearsal dinner immediately after at the pit barbecue (FH's father loves to cook and taste test barbeque, ribs, etc).  Sparians bowling boutique & bistro 6-9pm...Also thought about reserving the trolley Saturday for the rehearsal and dinner??  FH is graduate of NCSU and thought about incorparting the area someway....Bridal party are staying at the Hotel.  Haristylist & make-up artist meet bride & bridesmaid at hotel 8am.   Wedding begins at 2pm..  Activities are optional, and points of interest will be in gift baskets located in guests rooms.