So, you’re planning an elopement? And even better, you’re planning an elopement in the mountains?! That sounds so fun! We are here to help and offer any guidance you and your fiancee might need!
If you aren’t sure what an elopement is, here is our modern definition of it: elopements consist of a private marriage ceremony present with only the couple and required parties and vendors. In North Carolina’s case, that includes the couple, an ordained officiant and two witnesses over the age of 18. It may also include a photographer as well! You can read more about our elopement packages here and some wonderful vendors offering amazing packages for your elopement!
One of the toughest decisions when planning an Asheville elopement is where to do it. With the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Asheville, the possibilities are truly endless. Whether you imagine getting married off a mountain trail with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountain Range, on a beautiful rooftop terrace overlooking downtown Asheville, or you imagine cozying up in front of a beautiful fireplace to exchange your “I Dos” with each other, there is a perfect spot for you! And we can help you find it!
Below we will review some of our favorite locations, both traditional venues and non-traditional options, to elope with your partner!
Keep in mind, all marriage laws still apply for elopements as they do for weddings. Check out the details on what you need to get legally married here! As mentioned above, you will still need a marriage license, an ordained officiant, two legal witnesses and the “I Dos”!
Homewood
A beautiful stone manor structure, this historic venue offers beautiful indoor and outdoor locations for your elopement! Our favorite place is in front of the historic, large and working fireplace in The Great Room. The outdoor ceremony site is tucked away in a gorgeous, lush garden creating the perfect, whimsical atmosphere for your special elopement.
The Ridge & The Chateau
A French and Spanish inspired venue, with 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this stunning venue offers the perfect location for an unforgettable elopement. Whether you choose to host your ceremony at The Chateau under the breathtaking chandelier or the elegant pergola, or exchange vows outdoors at The Ridge while soaking in the gorgeous mountain views, you will not be disappointed!
Capital Club of Asheville
Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, this venue offers an amazing rooftop terrace that has the best view of an Asheville sunset in the mountains! The venue also overlooks downtown Asheville and offers you the chance to follow your elopement with a romantic dinner with just you and your partner at one of the many fantastic farm-to-table and creative restaurants in this craft food and beverage driven city!
Rhubarb
This charming, rustic downtown location is the perfect fit for any special wedding activities! With a wonderful, exposed brick interior featuring large windows to allow natural light to shine through, it’s the perfect location for a private, romantic moment between you and your loved ones. What’s even better is that the Rhubarb features its delicious, locally sourced, award winning cuisine. This is the perfect way to end your evening!
Omni Grove Park
This beautiful, unique venue offers multiple locations for the perfect intimate elopement. Whether you and your partner want a scenic mountain view backdrop, a cozy moment by a fireplace or a romantic vow exchange by a waterfall, the Omni Grove Park will have the right location for you! The best part is you and your new husband/wife can enjoy their wonderful amenities including a one of a kind subterranean spa! It’s a great spot for an elopement and honeymoon trip bundled into one!
Biltmore
This historic venue is an amazing spot for any wedding or elopement! With its stunning natural beauty and endless possibilities for an intimate ceremony, you are bound to find the perfect spot for you and your partner to exchange vows and promise forever. Not only will you have access to the estate grounds, you can enjoy a romantic dinner, wine tasting or even a special carriage ride around the property! Talk about a once in a lifetime experience!
North Carolina Arboretum
Not only is the NC Arboretum a unique part of Asheville, but it is one of the most botanically diverse and beautiful natural settings in the country. This makes it the perfect location for your wedding or elopement! The NC Arboretum features both indoor and outdoor facilities that are truly unique to the location.
Blue Ridge Parkway
For those couples looking for a scenic backdrop and an adventure, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a plethora of locations for you and your partner to exchange special vows and commit to forever!
While the Blue Ridge Parkway does offer some of the most breathtakingly beautiful locations for an elopement, there are a few rules to be followed! In order to elope on the parkway, you must apply for a wedding permit! This Special Use Permit costs $100 and you can apply online here! We suggest planning a parkway elopement for a weekday and avoiding any weekend or holiday dates which can draw large crowds around the area. In addition, the permits are unavailable during the month of October.
Lastly, there are no live flowers permitted on the parkway but there are always beautiful alternatives such as wood and silk flowers!
Although there are a few extra steps to take, the breathtaking view is absolutely worth it!
We hope that you and your partner find the perfect location for your Asheville elopement! If you need any guidance or assistance, feel free to reach out and inquire about our elopement packages!
