Every year, the Soirees Southern Events Planning group hosts a bridal show. This year the members wanted to do things differently.

“It’s more like a party,” Sherri Christensen said.

The “Summer Barn Soiree” will be from 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, at the Walters Barn, 7712 Persimmon Tree Road, in Lula.

Tickets are $15 per person or $300 for a table of 10 with 10 drink tickets and a hors d’oeuvres tray. To preorder tickets, email soireessouthernevents@gmail.com.

Food trucks will be on hand, offering their meals for purchase. A beer and wine cash bar will be on-site.

Music from local bands will play, and North Georgia’s first annual Cupcake Wars will take place.

Christensen said the party will be “not just the best party of the year in North Georgia” but one with a purpose. The summer soiree will salute the sacrifices of U.S. men and women in uniform.

“This is our way of giving back,” she said.

Part of the event’s proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. But that’s not the only bonus for a serviceman or woman. One lucky couple — with at least one person who is active military, wounded warrior, veteran or first responder — will receive a wedding worth up to $10,000.

“It includes the barn, cake, photographer, and flowers,” Christensen said. “It’s pretty much a whole wedding.”

The only thing missing from the giveaway is the catering.

The Soirees Southern Events Planning group is accepting nominations for candidates until Saturday morning. To nominate a couple, visit www.soirees-southernevents.com, The Walters Barn or Soirees Southern Events on Facebook, or call Christensen at 770-654-9789.

The winning couple will be announced at 8 p.m. Saturday. 

For more information, visit www.soirees-southernevents.com.