Get married in our romantic Blue Ridge Mountains! Here are our top places for weddings in Asheville and nearby western North Carolina towns. These venues graciously accommodate your wishes for a ceremony or reception, along with banquets, group dinners and family reunions. We are a hot spot for destination dream weddings, bringing in family and friends from across the country to create a vacation for everyone (see our top things to do)! Find the most scenic locations indoors and outdoors including lakes, farms and barns. Or head to downtown Asheville with many hotels and restaurants within walking distance. Photo above by Meghan Rolfe.
Also find resources like officiants, planners and photographers on our Wedding Planners & Other Services guide. For information on how to get a wedding license, go to the bottom of this page. If just two (or so) of you, see our Elopement Guide.
Top Wedding Venues by Category
Places to Get Married, Officiants, Planners, Photography
Get married on the beach or indoors with spectacular Lake Lure and mountain views of the Hickory Nut Gorge. Find many amenities, including golf, swimming, spa, boating, hiking, biking and more. Outdoor Venues: Lakeview Terrace with 180-degree lake views for a reception of up to 300 guests. Lakeside Gazebo is the prime ceremony... read more
This downtown Asheville venue in the Historic Broadway Arts Building offers an elegant setting for traditional to modern decor. Chef Kim Lloyd and the exceptional staff personally guide, from the first concepts of your celebration to the very last detail. In-house catering is provided by Celine and Company Catering. Indoor Facilities:... read more
The Lodge gives you a wide array of options with 2,100 square feet indoors and 2,600 outdoors, providing ample room for your ceremony and reception. Maybe a riverside setting fits your vision. 10 minutes from the spa town of Hot Springs in Madison County. Ask about their outdoor adventure package to make your wedding even more memorable.
This unique event barn and the surrounding fields, located on a 500-acre conservation easement, offer a pristine setting perfect for a formal or casual wedding ceremony and reception year-round. Enjoy 360-degree views, farm animals and lawn games on a working farm, just fourteen miles from downtown Asheville.
Indoor Venues:... read more
Indoor Venues:... read more
Farmland offers panoramic views of the mountains along the Swannanoa River in one of the most scenic valleys in the region. On-site housing for up to 84 guests, with all-inclusive wedding packages. Indoor Venues: 5,000 sq. ft. architectural tent on permanent, concrete foundation with with all lighting, sidewalls, heating and... read more
This creekside venue features a handcrafted rustic-yet-modern barn, waterfall, covered bridge and views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The ideal location for a wedding weekend with lodging for the wedding party or family in The Willow House plus additional cabins for guests.
Indoor Facilities: Surrounded by walls of... read more
Indoor Facilities: Surrounded by walls of... read more
Olivette's Rosebay Park consists of 7 beautiful acres on the banks of the French Broad River. Located 15 minutes from downtown Asheville, the park features an outdoor pavilion with a lovely stone fireplace, a large yard, a fire pit amphitheater and a private island with a wedding circle and labyrinth.
Indoor Venues:... read more
Indoor Venues:... read more
Situated on a mountaintop overlooking Asheville, the Main Hall features 86 feet of windows facing west toward the Blue Ridge Parkway. Adjacent to a waterfall, the glass-enclosed Pavilion has 360 degrees of mountain views and a garden terrace. Located 4.5 miles from downtown.
Indoor Venues: The venue capacity is 230 for... read more
Indoor Venues: The venue capacity is 230 for... read more
This elegant and romantic castle features original hardwood floors, cherry walls, grand Appalachian stone fireplaces and alabaster sconces. Luminous wrought iron chandeliers cast graceful lighting from the 20-ft. ceiling of the Great Room. Located one mile north of downtown, Homewood is nestled in the historic neighborhood of... read more
Weddings deserve a beautiful and unique location. Choose from a variety of luxury vacation homes with unique locations for a personalized wedding experience. With an abundance of settings including outdoor, lakes, ponds, mountain, rustic and more, Yonder offers a wide selection of gorgeous vacation home venues to choose from in Western NC. The... read more
Get married at one of the nation’s most beautiful public gardens. The NC Arboretum’s Green Wedding options include elegantly designed landscapes, sculptures, mountain views and charming indoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions for up to 200 guests. Situated in the... read more
This fun-loving, 33-acre organic farm offers flexible venue space to suit your needs. The barn features an event space on the ground level and a custom-designed farm house on the upper level. Lodging options include the 3-bedroom farm house and an off-grid, eco-community center with cabins and unlimited camping. Franny’s Farm has gardens,... read more
Classic, yet modern, hotel near Biltmore Estate features a stately ballroom with 20 ft. ceilings. Decorated in the rich hues of the Arts and Crafts period. Grand private entrance leads to elegant prefunction space with hand-crafted stone fireplace. Elegant surroundings and sumptuous food in Biltmore Village. Indoor Facilities:... read more
Kessler Collection's masterpiece is steps away from gates of the famous Biltmore Estate. The authentic Old-World, rustic ambiance of this Tudor-inspired boutique hotel is masterfully blended with all of the modern luxuries. Located in Biltmore Village. Indoor Facilities: State-of-the-art event space includes the 2,200 sq.... read more
Engadine, a country retreat located just 15 minutes west of the urban center of Asheville, offers accommodations with 6 rooms in the B&B and 6 cabins. The property can house up to 35 guests. Indoor Venues: The elegant Parlor and the Dining Room in the historic Inn for smaller weddings and... read more
Located in the Nantahala Gorge near Bryson City, this setting above Fontana Lake has views of the lake, Nantahala National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy a big variety of outdoor adventures during your big weekend, including ziplines and whitewater rafting. Indoor Facilities: Included is the entire resort for two... read more
A jewel in the midst of 200 protected acres near Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, 25 minutes southeast of Asheville. Part of a green, sustainable eco-community. Experience the peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere of this magical place. Indoor Facilities: The great room accommodates 100, with hearthstone wood stove and huge windows... read more
DIY venue with modern lodging on-site. Camping and glamping, too. Choose your own caterer, music, decor, etc., and their staff does the work for you. Their unspoiled mountain landscape in Pisgah National Forest, just 20 minutes from downtown Asheville, is perfect for three-day wedding weekends. Owners/operators Holly and Rob work every event to... read more
Natural beauty and southern hospitality combine to create a magical place to say "I do." Garden-centered cuisine, casually elegant lodging accommodations and a staff dedicated to fulfilling your every need ensures that your day will be everything you've hoped for. Indoor Facilities: Several options for receptions... read more
Located in the Biltmore Park neighborhood, this hotel has many options in an urban village in south Asheville. With luxurious amenities, large reception venues and a fantastic menu that can be personalized to your tastes, let their on-site wedding professional assist with all the details. Indoor Facilities: Pinnacle Ballroom... read more
Beautiful turn-of-the-century banquet hall overlooking Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville. High ceilings, exposed-wood trusses and brick walls create a wonderful atmosphere for your event. Venue offers flexibility within an environment of impeccable service. Indoor Facilities: Accommodates up to 250 for cocktail parties and... read more
Flexible venue for weddings, reception, rehearsal dinners and dances. Cabins and Cottages house up to 26 guests. Ten miles from downtown Asheville. Indoor Facilities: 2,200 sq. ft. great room with hardwood floors, heated or air conditioned, a huge stone fireplace and 60 ft. of doors that open onto covered wrap-around porches.... read more
Surrounded by more than a century of historic grandeur, this legendary hotel features many distinctive venues, including outdoor terraces with majestic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Omni Grove Park Inn offers exceptional cuisine, luxurious accommodations and legendary service. Add to that four signature locally-sourced... read more
Nestled in a small mountain town, this 1868 grand Victorian mansion is a wedding destination venue with full service catering from their onsite restaurant and personalized wedding coordination. Tie the knot beneath the ancient walnut tree, and make yourself at home in a fully restored Inn with family and friends. Packages for... read more
European soul meets laid-back Carolina style at this design-rich hotel in the heart of downtown Asheville, just a block from Pack Square. Their 132 contemporary, upscale guestrooms especially appeal to the desires of millennials. Find gathering areas for friends and family in the first and ninth floor lobbies. Indoor... read more
Elegant venue with rustic charm and panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Located in a charming small town just 35 minutes from Asheville, their 60-acre farm is a photographer's dream with multiple gazebos, rock formations, stable, brook and gardens. Find many options to fit your specific wishes. Indoor Facilities:... read more
Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, this intimate, scenic property provides couples the space for a perfect boutique wedding. Bend of Ivy has a design feel of Asian zen with Italian rolling landscapes, surrounded by mountain views. Rental includes full and exclusive use of 63 acres with streams, gardens, pergolas, arbors, a koi pond, trails,... read more
Celebrate your wedding at this downtown Asheville hotel. Book discounted hotel rooms for your group, too. Outdoor Facilities: Air Level has over 2,000 sq. ft. of space with stunning views all the way to Mt. Pisgah. Private bar and fire pit. It can be fully tented or left uncovered to dine and dance under the stars for up to... read more
Brews, views and I Dos! Asheville's original craft brewery, Highland Brewing, features an industrial chic private event center - including a fabulous Rooftop – perfect for weddings, rehearsal dinners and engagement parties. Your guests will love Highland's full line... read more
Ambrose West is the newest wedding and event venue in West Asheville, family owned and operated. Haywood Hall, the largest space, is ideal for weddings up to 150 people. Downstairs is a full bar in the spacious lounge that leads to a bright and manicured courtyard. From the courtyard is access to the Beecham Room, a warm and welcoming room with... read more
Picture an enchanted evening against the backdrop of America’s largest home, or a celebration in a pristine setting surrounded by nature’s beauty. Biltmore offers a variety of romantic locations, each featuring their renowned service and attention to detail. Experience their legacy of gracious hospitality, romance and history to you... read more
All you need is love...let Firefly take care of the rest! This boutique event planning company specializes in weddings and custom events. From concept to execution, they offer multiple event packages to fit all your planning needs. Asheville truly is a magical place to tie the knot, and Firefly loves getting to share in the experience!... read more
Whether on top of the Chimney with a 75-mile panoramic view, at the base of a 404-ft. waterfall, surrounded by majestic cliffs, or in a silent grove, Chimney Rock State Park offers a unique mountain setting for your ceremony that is as rustic or elegant as you are.... read more
For lovers of nature, Meghan Rolfe specializes in beautiful and natural imagery of couples in love. Whether you come to Asheville to have your wedding or elopement, engagement or anniversary photos, or maybe you are even planning to propose, Meghan is passionate about capturing love in the nature that surrounds our beloved city. ... read more
Perfect for elopements, engagements, vow renewals and honeymoons, this top-rated mountaintop inn has a private entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The relaxing setting at 5,000 feet elevation, gourmet cuisine and rustic luxury could not be more romantic. Outdoor Facilities: Locations include Gooseberry Knob... read more
Get married on your own terms with Asheville's most experienced intimate destination wedding planning service. They have helped thousands of couples to plan intimate, romantic and memorable weddings in and around the Asheville area since 2010. Whether it's just the two of you, or an intimate gathering of up to 30 family and friends in a... read more
Known for her genuine warmth, sense of humor, and familiarity with a wide range of religious and secular beliefs and practices, Jeanne Sommer (M.Div., Ph.D.) creates one-of-a-kind ceremonies. Guests receive a window into the lives and love of the couple, and they leave the event feeling appreciated and involved.... read more
This team of open-minded wedding officiants specializes in secular and interfaith ceremonies. They offer a high-quality, highly personalized, professional service for couples who expect only the best on their wedding day! ... read more
Whether on top of the Chimney with a 75-mile panoramic view, at the base of a 404-ft. waterfall, surrounded by majestic cliffs, or in a silent grove, Chimney Rock State Park offers a unique mountain setting for your ceremony that is as rustic or elegant as you are.... read more
More Asheville Wedding Ideas
- Looking for a great place to pop the question? See the Top 10 Places to Propose at Biltmore or the Best Mountain Views.
- For your honeymoon, stay at a top rated hotel, mountain cabin or romantic B&B.
- Elope! See our guide to the best places and tips for eloping in Asheville.
- For very fun ideas for bachelorette and bachelor parties, see our Top 25 Guided Tours. Our top pick is LaZoom Comedy Tours on a festive purple bus with zany performers. Haunted evening tours and extra festive beer and band tours too!
- The South Slope Brewing District in Asheville is a popular celebration area for a craft brewery walking tour.
Getting a Marriage License in Asheville
Marriage Licenses are issued during business hours (8 AM-5 PM) at the Buncombe County Register of Deeds Office at 205 College Street, Asheville. Arrive by 4:30 PM. For more info, call 828-250-4301.
- To obtain a license, both parties must be present with valid photo identification AND Social Security Cards. (See "laws" below for alternative forms of ID.)
- The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue and can be used for marriage anywhere within the state of North Carolina.
- The fee for the Marriage License is $60 and can be paid with cash/check/Visa/MasterCard.
- For your convenience, you may complete the Online Marriage License Application from home prior to your visit. The Application can also be completed upon arrival at the Register of Deeds office.
- Once the ceremony is performed, the completed license must be returned to the Register of Deeds Office within 10 days. A certificate of marriage can then be issued.
- See North Carolina Marriage Laws below for more.
Getting Married in the Asheville Courthouse
Once you obtain a marriage license (see below), marriages can be performed by a civil magistrate on the 2nd floor of the Buncombe County Courthouse (60 Court Plaza, Asheville). The magistrate is generally available to perform marriages on weekdays at 8:30 AM and 4 PM. However, this is not always the case, so it is advisable to call the magistrate’s office before arriving to ensure that he will be available. The fee is $20, payable in cash only. For more information, please call the magistrate’s office at 828-259-3407. You will need two witnesses.
If you would like to get married after business hours or on the weekend, you may be able to do so by a criminal magistrate at the Buncombe County Jail. Please contact the criminal magistrate’s office at 828-250-4690 for more information.
North Carolina Marriage Laws
- There is no waiting period to be married in North Carolina. Once the license is issued by the Register of Deeds Office it is good for only 60 days.
- Persons need not be residents of this state to marry in this state.
- The person performing the marriage ceremony must return both completed license to the Register of Deeds Office in the county where the license was originally issued or be subject to a $200 fine. The 2 (two) witnesses must include their addresses on both the original and copy of the license. A license issued in one County may be used in any county in North Carolina.
- The Marriage License fee set by N. C. Law, is currently $60.
- A Physician’s Health Certificate of Blood Test is not required.
- The Register of Deeds shall require proof of age from all persons making application for a marriage license. A person between 18 and 21 years of age is required to present a certified birth certificate. Persons 21 or older may present any one of the following forms of ID: Drivers license, military ID, passport, state ID or a certified birth certificate.
- The Register may accept a Social Security Number from a social security card or one of the following with the number on it:
- A W-2 Form
- A paycheck stub
- Military discharge
- Medicaid/Medicare Card
- Voter’s Registration Card containing their Social Security Number.
- Health Insurance Card containing their Social Security Number
- An Internal Revenue Service (W-7 Form) or an affidavit of ineligibility is acceptable for anyone . who has never had a Social Security Number and are not entitled to one. (Such affidavits are good for 60 days only.
- Persons 16 or 17 years of age must submit a certified copy of their birth certificate and at least one parent, or legal guardian with full or joint custody, who have proper identification, and who will give their written consent (on the marriage applications) and meet the above requirements.
- All other persons under the age of 16 years must call the Register of Deeds Office for information regarding a marriage license. Persons under the age 14 may not marry regardless of circumstances.
- A North Carolina Marriage may be performed or solemnized by the following only:
- An Ordained Minister
- A Minister Authorized by his church
- A District Court Magistrate
- By the Society of Friends, according to customs of the Society
- By a local Spiritual Assembly of the Baha is in accordance to the usage of their religious community.
- By any person authorized by any religious denomination or of any recognized Indian Nation or Tribe.
- A Marriage must be witnessed by 2 (two) people who are present at the marriage. The Witnesses must place their names and addresses on the original and the copy of this license in legible handwriting and in ink.
- Once the marriage has been performed and both copies of the License returned to the Register of Deeds Office, a Certificate of Marriage may be obtained upon request. Each certified certificate is currently $10.
- Same sex marriages were legalized in North Carolina in 2014.
- Common Law & Bigamous Marriages are void in North Carolina.
- Marriages of person’s nearer kin than first cousins are unlawful in North Carolina.
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The NC mountains are home to many Inns, B&Bs and large homes that are perfect if you’re looking for a quaint historic wedding venue in Asheville with mountain charm. No matter how many guests... read more
Congratulations! You're engaged and interested in having your wedding in the Asheville mountains, an unforgettable place to make it official. Whether you’re planning a destination wedding in... read more
If you’re dreaming of a rustic wedding in Asheville or the surrounding North Carolina mountains, the options are plentiful! The popularity of barn and farm weddings is no surprise as more and more... read more
Many couples travel to Asheville and the mountains of North Carolina for an elopement or a small wedding celebration with a few friends or family members. It's the perfect place to elope. Since we... read more
