Best Places To Get Married In North Carolina: Top Venues For Your Big Day
Planning your dream wedding in North Carolina is an exciting journey. This state offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, charming cities, and unique venues that ensure your special day is unforgettable. Whether you prefer the grandeur of mountain landscapes or the elegance of historic sites, North Carolina has a diverse range of wedding venues that cater to every couple’s vision.
From luxurious hotels to rustic lodges, North Carolina’s wedding venues come equipped with top-notch amenities to make your day perfect. Surrounded by the natural beauty and warm hospitality, you can find venues that will make your wedding truly magical.
1) Nantahala Weddings
Nantahala Weddings is a wonderful choice for your dream wedding in North Carolina. Located in the heart of the NC mountains, it offers beautiful natural settings perfect for an outdoor ceremony. With stunning views at an elevation of 3,500 feet, it’s easy to see why so many couples love this place.
One of the best parts about Nantahala Weddings is its exclusivity. When you book, you get the entire 6.5-acre estate just for you and your guests. There are no noise restrictions, no curfews, and even your pets are welcome.
You also won’t have to worry about accommodations. Nantahala Weddings has onsite lodging for up to 18 people, and there are plenty of vacation homes nearby. Plus, you and your guests can enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Nantahala and the Smoky Mountains.
Rating: 4.9 (208 reviews)
Location: 16121 Wayah Rd, Topton, NC 28781
Contact: (828) 421-0141
Website: Visit Website
2) Overlook Barn
Overlook Barn is a beautiful wedding venue located in Banner Elk, North Carolina. Nestled on Elderberry Ridge Road, this place offers stunning mountain views that create a magical atmosphere. It’s perfect for a romantic and memorable wedding.
When you book your wedding at Overlook Barn, you get a list of amazing vendors to help plan your perfect day. The team is known for being easy to work with and always ready to answer any questions you might have during the planning process.
Guests coming from out of town can enjoy their stay on Beech Mountain, with various affordable places to choose from. This makes it convenient for families to gather and celebrate.
Rating: 4.9 (192 reviews)
Location: 830 Elderberry Ridge Rd, Banner Elk, NC 28604
Contact: (828) 414-1156
Website: Visit Website
3) Alexander Homestead
Alexander Homestead is a charming wedding venue near Uptown Charlotte. It features a secret garden setting that’s perfect for your special day. The venue is known for its full-service experiences, making wedding planning a breeze for you. The experienced planning team ensures every detail is handled from start to finish.
Your wedding here includes a beautiful ceremony followed by a fun and heartfelt reception. The inclusive amenities mean you don’t have to worry about extra costs piling up. Many couples have praised the venue and staff for their fantastic service and warm hospitality.
You can start your wedding journey by contacting the planning team. Office hours are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. Note that they are closed on Wednesdays. They strive to respond within 24-48 hours, keeping your planning process smooth and efficient.
Rating: 4.7 (435 reviews)
Location: 4717 Shamrock Dr, Charlotte, NC 28215
Contact: (704) 737-1023
Website: Visit Website
4) Twickenham House
Twickenham House in Jefferson, NC, stands out as a fantastic wedding venue with its Old English Manor charm. With more than 11,000 square feet of beautifully designed living space, it’s perfect for entertaining. Additionally, a spacious guest cottage is available, making it ideal for hosting over 40 guests comfortably.
The estate features luxurious amenities such as a commercial kitchen, a sauna, and a library with billiards. The grounds offer plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in the stocked pond. Amazing 50-mile long-range views from the terrace and breathtaking sunsets and sunrises create a magical atmosphere for your special day.
Conveniently located near Ashe County Regional Airport and the Blue Ridge Parkway, Twickenham House provides the perfect mix of seclusion and accessibility. Despite its remote feel, it’s just a short drive from the villages of Jefferson and West Jefferson, and only 119 miles from Charlotte.
Rating: 4.9 (132 reviews)
Location: 1329 Phoenix Colvard Rd, Jefferson, NC 28640
Contact: (828) 783-8942
Website: Visit Website
5) Leslie-Alford-Mims House
The Leslie-Alford-Mims House is a charming wedding venue near Raleigh, North Carolina. Built in 1840, this white mansion combines rich history with modern style. Imagine getting married under a canopy of Magnolia trees or dancing under the stars on the event lawn.
Inside, the mansion offers rooms for cocktail hour with a live pianist. The house includes a beautiful Event Patio and full-service bridal and groom suites. Your rental at this venue includes 15 exclusive hours.
For those seeking an all-inclusive experience, the Mims House offers budget-friendly wedding packages through their sister company, Mad Dash Weddings. This makes it a perfect spot for small ceremonies, elopements, or micro weddings.
Rating: 4.8 (141 reviews)
Location: 100 Avent Ferry Rd, Holly Springs, NC 27540
Contact: (919) 728-0808
Website: Visit Website
6) Castle McCulloch
If you’re dreaming of a fairytale wedding, Castle McCulloch might be the perfect spot for you. They have different styles to choose from, like indoor, outdoor, and even ballroom options. You can even have a wedding with the elegance of European royalty.
Castle McCulloch is not just about weddings. They also host corporate events, from marketing meetings to holiday parties. Whether your group has 20 or 350 guests, they can accommodate your needs.
You can consider this venue for more than just weddings and corporate events. Castle McCulloch is also great for baby showers, birthday celebrations, quinceañeras, and proms. No matter the event, they offer a unique and memorable setting.
Rating: 4.6 (1007 reviews)
Location: 3925 Kivett Dr, Jamestown, NC 27282
Contact: (336) 887-5413
Website: Visit Website
7) The Matthews House
Tucked away in downtown Cary, The Matthews House offers a charming setting for weddings. Its elegant, stately rooms and beautifully manicured gardens create a serene atmosphere. You can enjoy classic cocktails and delicious charcuterie while celebrating your special day.
The Matthews House isn’t just about the venue itself. They host various events throughout the year, like wine pairing dinners and festive showcases. These events can give you a taste of what to expect for your wedding and even help with your planning.
Their Winter Wedding Showcase brings together local vendors, making it easy for you to find everything you need. From floral designs to catering, The Matthews House provides all the essentials for creating a memorable wedding. Their venue is not only beautiful but also versatile, ready for any kind of celebration.
Rating: 4.7 (183 reviews)
Location: 317 W Chatham St, Cary, NC 27511
Contact: (919) 467-1944
Website: Visit Website
8) The Merrimon-Wynne House
You’ll love the Merrimon-Wynne House for its charm and elegance. This historic venue in Raleigh offers a beautiful setting for your wedding, featuring stunning architecture and lovely gardens. It’s a popular choice for couples looking for a sophisticated and stylish backdrop for their big day.
The Merrimon-Wynne House offers an all-inclusive package for weekday weddings. This package includes top vendors for catering, florals, rentals, and more, making planning easier for you. You still get to choose your décor and some vendors, but without all the initial hassle.
This venue is dedicated to inclusivity and acceptance, celebrating love in all its forms. Your special moments will be cherished here, supported by professional planners and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Rating: 4.9 (360 reviews)
Location: 500 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604
Contact: (919) 906-1026
Website: Visit Website
9) Morning Glory Farm
Morning Glory Farm offers a charming and intimate setting for weddings. It’s a family-owned venue that combines the beauty of a working farm with the warmth of a cozy backyard. Imagine sparkling café lights, lush greenery, and overgrown rose bushes creating a picturesque backdrop for your special day.
The team at Morning Glory Farm is dedicated to making your wedding planning process smooth and stress-free. They understand the challenges of turning a wedding vision into reality. That’s why they stand ready to help you personalize the space to match your dreams.
Located just outside Charlotte, North Carolina, this venue promises an inviting atmosphere. Touring the farm is the best way to truly appreciate the beauty and unique charm it offers. Their passion for helping couples ensures that your wedding will be memorable and delightful.
Rating: 4.8 (70 reviews)
Location: 6205 Kate Rd, Unionville, NC 28110
Contact: (704) 989-0046
Website: Visit Website
10) Rose Hill Estate
Rose Hill Estate is an event and wedding venue located near Raleigh in Nash County, North Carolina. The venue features an 18th-century manor house that gives a warm, southern hospitality vibe. It’s situated at the end of a private, tree-lined lane, offering a picturesque countryside setting.
The estate also offers various event spaces, including a banquet hall and conference center, making it perfect for different kinds of celebrations. Many couples have found it to be a dream location for their wedding, with guests often commenting on the beautiful surroundings and excellent food.
Aside from weddings, the venue includes a sporting clays range, adding a unique touch for those looking for a bit of outdoor fun. The combination of scenic beauty and versatile facilities makes Rose Hill Estate a top choice for memorable events.
Rating: 4.8 (181 reviews)
Location: 3815 Rose Hill Ln, Nashville, NC 27856
Contact: (252) 459-4058
Website: Visit Website
Legal Requirements For Marriage In North Carolina
To get married in North Carolina, you need to fulfill certain legal requirements. You must apply for a marriage license and meet specific age and consent rules.
Marriage License Application
In North Carolina, you need to apply for a marriage license. You can get this at any county clerk’s office within the state. The good news is, once you obtain it, you can use it anywhere in North Carolina.
When applying, both you and your spouse will need to be present. You’ll have to bring identification, such as a driver’s license or a passport. Make sure you also have a verified copy of your social security number. The application process usually requires a small fee, so have some cash or a credit card ready.
After you receive the license, it’s valid for 60 days. You need to get married within that period. Once you’ve had your ceremony, your officiant will sign the license. You’ll then return it to the county clerk’s office where it was issued.
Age Requirements And Consent
North Carolina has clear rules about how old you need to be to get married. If you’re 18 or older, you can marry without anyone else’s permission. If you’re 16 or 17, you can still get married, but you’ll need parental consent.
For those who are emancipated minors, the 16-17 age group rule applies without needing parental consent. Marriage for individuals aged 14-16 is rare and only allowed under extreme circumstances, requiring a court order.
There are also restrictions on who you can marry. You cannot marry anyone who is more closely related to you than a first cousin. Additionally, both parties must not be currently married to someone else and must understand the nature of the marriage contract.
Best Seasons And Weather For A Wedding In North Carolina
North Carolina offers a variety of beautiful seasons for weddings, each with its own charm and advantages. Spring and fall are particularly favored for their mild temperatures and gorgeous settings.
Spring Weddings
Spring in North Carolina is a delightful time for a wedding. The weather is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F. In May, you can expect the threat of frost to have passed, allowing for outdoor ceremonies without the chill. This is a great time for flowers, as gardens bloom with vibrant colors, making for stunning wedding photos.
Additionally, spring weddings can feature beautiful backdrops of dogwoods, azaleas, and tulips. The mild afternoons and cool evenings provide a comfortable atmosphere for guests, whether you’re planning an outdoor or indoor event. Remember to consider potential rain showers in your plans, which are common in spring.
Fall Weddings
Fall is an incredibly popular time for weddings in North Carolina. The weather is usually consistent, with temperatures between the low 60s to mid-70s°F, providing a pleasant climate for outdoor events. The natural scenery during autumn is breathtaking, with vibrant foliage that creates picturesque settings for your special day.
September through November sees less threat from summer storms, making it a reliable season for an outdoor wedding. The beautiful fall colors—reds, oranges, and yellows—add a warm and inviting feel to your celebrations. The cooler temperatures also make it easier for guests to enjoy the festivities without overheating, which is a bonus if your event includes dancing and other outdoor activities.
