From the Mountains to the Aisle: Why Asheville, NC is the Perfect Wedding Destination

Asheville, tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, has become a popular wedding destination in recent years. Its stunning natural scenery, vibrant arts scene, and unique blend of Southern charm and bohemian flair make it a perfect choice for couples looking to tie the knot. Whether you envision a rustic outdoor wedding with breathtaking mountain views, an intimate ceremony in a historic mansion, or a bohemian celebration in a quirky downtown venue, Asheville has it all. What sets this city apart is its community of talented vendors, including world-class chefs, award-winning breweries, skilled florists, and photographers who are committed to creating an unforgettable wedding day. For a wedding destination that offers natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic Southern hospitality, Asheville, NC is pure perfection.

Why choose Asheville for your wedding location

Have you considered Asheville for your wedding destination? If not, you really should. This Hallmark-movie-worthy city in North Carolina’s western region boasts stunning natural beauty, mountain landscapes, and a vibrant arts scene. There are so many wedding venues to choose from… from historic mansions to rustic barns and vineyards… all catering to your unique style and preferences. 

But Asheville isn’t just a wedding destination – it also offers plenty of activities for you and your guests to enjoy before and after the big day. Take a hike in the mountains or explore the downtown area. If you’re a food and wine lover, you’ll LOVE Asheville’s renowned breweries, wineries, and restaurants. 

And the best part? Asheville is an affordable wedding destination compared to other popular locations. There are wedding packages available to fit different budgets, so you can have your dream wedding without breaking the bank.

Asheville wedding statistics

Ok, I love nerding out to some data and statistics. So OF COURSE I’ve got some for you when it comes to the Asheville wedding scene.

Asheville has become a popular wedding destination in recent years. In 2020, it was ranked as the 9th most popular wedding destination in the United States by The Knot. The city is also home to some of the most talented wedding vendors in the country, including award-winning chefs, florists, and photographers. 

The best wedding venues in Asheville

Asheville is home to some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the country. Here are some of the best (and my favorite) wedding venues in Asheville:

Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate is one of the most famous wedding venues in Asheville. The estate is home to a stunning mansion, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking mountain views. There are tons of wedding packages that cater to different budgets and preferences.

Wedding locations at The Biltmore: 

• The Biltmore House & Gardens
• Antler Hill Barn
• Deerpark
• Lioncrest
• Cedric’s Garden

Weddings at The Biltmore, Asheville

Want to find the best engagement photo spots at the Biltmore?

The Ridge

The Ridge is a French and Spanish-inspired wedding venue located in Marshall, NC, just outside of Asheville. There’s an incredible 360-degree view of the beautiful mountain landscape. And you’ve got options for an indoor or outdoor wedding. The Ridge offers a wide range of wedding packages that cater to different budgets and preferences.

The Ridge, Asheville

Grove Park Inn

The Grove Park Inn is a fan favorite. You’ll find the perfect spot for your wedding between the Grand and Heritage Ballrooms, the outdoor Vanderbilt Terrace, and more indoor and outdoor venues. This historic resort boasts an incredible view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has world-class restaurants and chefs. 

Wedding locations at The Grove Park Inn: 

• Vanderbilt Terrace (guest capacity for the ceremony is 75)
• Mt. View Terrace (guest capacity 200)
• Skyline Room (guest capacity 200)
• Country Club (guest capacity 120)
• Seely Pavilion (guest capacity 300)

The Grove Park Inn Weddings, Asheville

The Venue

The Venue is a modern full-service wedding venue located in the heart of downtown Asheville. They offer a unique and contemporary wedding experience, perfect for couples looking for something different. With 13000 square feet of space, The Venue can accommodate up to 350 guests.

The Venue, Asheville

Asheville wedding vendors

Did you know that Asheville is home to some of the best wedding vendors in the country? This city is renowned for its talented chefs, florists, photographers, and wedding planners. 

Asheville Caterers

Whether you’re looking for traditional Southern cuisine or modern and contemporary dishes, Asheville’s catering options will impress. Some of the top catering companies in the city are:

• 67 Biltmore
• 12 Bones Smokehouse 
• Twisted Laurel

Asheville Wedding Planners

When it comes to wedding planners, Asheville has some of the most talented planners around. Some of the best wedding planners in or near Asheville are:

• Shay & Company
• Asheville Event Co.
• Julia Nicole Weddings & Events

Asheville Wedding Florists

Lastly, Asheville’s florists are some of the most talented in the country. You’ll find what you’re looking for with options ranging from traditional arrangements to modern and contemporary designs. Some of the best wedding florists near Asheville are:

• Blossoms at Biltmore Park
• Floressence
• Kate Asire Flowers

Planning your Asheville wedding: Tips and Tricks

If you’re planning a wedding in Asheville, it can feel overwhelming at first. However, it can be a fun and unforgettable experience with the right advice. Here are some tips to help you plan your perfect Asheville wedding:

1. Don’t wait too long – Asheville is a sought-after wedding destination, so start planning your big day as early as possible. This will ensure that you can secure the venue and vendors you want.
2. Check the weather – Asheville can get chilly in the winter, so if you’re planning an outdoor wedding, consider the weather and plan accordingly.
3. Consider hiring a local wedding planner – A local planner can help you navigate the city and find the best vendors and venues for your wedding.
4. Embrace the natural beauty – Asheville is famous for its stunning natural surroundings, so try incorporating the mountains and landscapes into your wedding design.
5. Consider having a weekday wedding – Asheville can get busy on weekends, so having your ceremony on a weekday (even a Friday!) could save you money and help you avoid crowds.

Fun activities to do in Asheville before and after your wedding

Before and after the wedding, you and your guests can enjoy various activities in Asheville. The city has something to offer everyone, from hiking in the mountains to exploring downtown. Here are some of the best things to do in Asheville: 

• Hiking: Asheville is surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and offers some of the best hiking trails in the country. The Appalachian Trail, Mount Pisgah Trail, and Chimney Rock State Park are among the top trails. 
• Brewery Tours: Asheville is renowned for its world-class breweries, making brewery tours popular for couples and their guests. Some of the best breweries in the city include Highland Brewing Company, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company, and Wicked Weed Brewing. 
• Art Galleries: Asheville boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous art galleries and studios throughout the city. Some top galleries to explore include the Asheville Art Museum, the Blue Spiral 1 Gallery, and the Woolworth Walk.

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Asheville, NC is the perfect wedding destination for couples looking for a unique and memorable wedding experience. The city offers various wedding venues, vendors, and activities catering to different budgets and preferences. From its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant arts scene and authentic Southern hospitality, Asheville has something to offer everyone. So if you’re searching for a wedding destination that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic Southern hospitality, look no further than Asheville, NC. And, of course, if you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Asheville, I’d love to chat!