Hope & Joseph
Things To Do
University of North Georgia Dahlonega Campus
Joseph and Hope met in a film appreciation class during their sophomore year of college. This address in Dahlonega will bring you to the central drill field of the University, where they spent the beginning days of their relationship.
Dahlonega Gold Museum
As the center of the Historic Square, the gold museum serves as the backdrop for life in Dahlonega. The brick building is featured in several hallmark Christmas movies and served as the setting for Joseph and Hope’s engagement. The museum itself is modest, but any night on the square is sure to satisfy the whole family.
Bourbon Street Grille
Hope and Joseph’s all time favorite for a Date night in Dahlonega. This was our go-to restaurant for any special occasion, including brunch the day we got engaged. The workers and guests even cheered from the porch upstairs when Joseph proposed. The Crawfish dip and Gumbo cheese fries come highly recommended by the happy couple!
Picnic Cafe and Dessertery
If you ask Hope where she went on her first date with Joseph, she’ll tell you all about picnic cafe. (Now if you ask Joseph, you might get a story about the Chick-Fil-A down the street…) The cozy atmosphere at Picnic is perfect for a romantic brunch or a spontaneous dessert in town. The Key Lime Pie cookies are always a hit!
Paul Thomas Chocolates
Dahlonega has no shortage of candy shops, but Paul Thomas takes the cake…or should we say the chocolates? Groomsman, Brendan, worked as a chocolatier at Paul Thomas during the time that he and Joseph were roommates, and was still working there when Hope and Joseph met. Maybe it’s just the “sweet” taste of nostalgia, but we’re pretty partial to this shop!
El Jimador Mexican Restaurant
Nicknamed “El Jim” (L-HEEM) by the students of the college, this restaurant is the best spot in town for large groups. Their Mexican food is fantastic, and the daquiris and margaritas make for a great celebration! Bridesmaid, Heidi, worked here during Hope’s senior year at UNG. There’s nothing on the menu that isn’t good!
Amicalola Falls State Park
Hope and Joseph love spending time outdoors, and have spent many afternoons hiking and camping near the park. Amicalola Falls is a 729-foot waterfall located at the start of the Appalachian Trail. While the hike is on a platformed walkway, it includes several steep staircases and is rather strenuous on the hike back out. If hiking isn’t your style, the park also offers archery, zip lines, birds of prey shows and more. In addition, the park features a lodge with a wide array of accommodations for guests.
NoFo Brew Co
One of our favorite casual drink spots! Family and dog friendly, cozy fireplaces, cornhole, and a rotating menu of locally brewed craft beers. Always a crowd pleaser!
19 North Seafood and Grill
19 opened in Hope and Joseph’s sophomore year, the year they first met. One of the first times Hope met Richard (Joseph’s dad) was at a dinner at 19. Bridesmaid, Gracyn, worked here during Hope’s junior year at UNG.