You’re eloping! Congrats!! Or thinking of eloping? Excellent idea. While my own wedding was a big weekend long throw down, I completely understand the choice for intimacy, simplicity, and let’s be real, affordability. Or in the case of a global pandemic, safety. Asheville, and the surrounding mountains, is a glorious place to commit to love. But, the choice of precisely where to elope can be overwhelming. So, here’s some thoughts and info that might help.
While Max Patch, Black Balsam Knob, and Craggy Pinnacle are all breathtaking, they have also become EXTREMELY popular. Which means they can get awfully crowded. So, unless it’s just the two of you marrying on a Tuesday morning in the offseason, I sadly, no longer recommend them. But, not to fret!! There are still plenty of lovely options. Here are a few of my favorites. . .
Chestoa Overlook
While an hour + 15 min drive from Asheville, the overlook is a very short walk from the Blue Ridge Parkway parking area. Exceptional views, perfect for a small ceremony (of people who aren’t too afraid of heights!)
Roan Mountain / Carver’s Gap
Just on the North Carolina and Tennessee border, Roan Mountain is a one hr + 30 min drive from Asheville. It is worth every minute. A short hike (1 mile round trip) through a pine forest, will take you to an open bald, with views in all directions. The Appalachian Trail runs right through, so you could hypothetically walk all the way to Maine! Even if you’re not going any further than the first summit, I highly recommend comfortable footwear!
Downtown Asheville Courthouse
Technically, I was officially married at the Asheville courthouse and it was surprisingly delightful! If hiking in the mountains isn’t your thing, or if you have, say, an elderly grandparent attending with mobility restrictions, why not a courthouse elopement? Downtown Asheville is full of fun spots to explore. You could stop into the French Broad Chocolate Lounge for a celebratory treat, or have a full on dinner reception at Rhubarb.
A Brewery or somewhere else fun and unexpected
Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. These two lovebirds called up the Wedge at Foundation and asked if they could wed just outside their brewery. They held the ceremony at 11 am to avoid any other customers, and then celebrated with a toast at noon just as the brewery opened. Your wedding can be whatever you make of it!
A Backyard (yours or someone else’s)
When the pandemic struck, like so many couples, these two had to surrender their original plans and get creative. They drove from NY to NC, to their mother’s backyard, so she could safely be there to witness her daughter commit to love. Personally, I adore backyard weddings. They feel so intimate and sweet. And yards are everywhere! They need not be of Biltmore Estate status to be beautiful. Your own yard, or that of a friend or family member is ideal, but even a vacation rental could be perfect.
Tennent Mountain
While not for the weak of heart (or legs) Tennent Mountain is worth every step, even if you happen to be greeted by an unexpected blanket of fog. It is an excellent alternative to the increasingly overcrowded Black Balsam Knob. The only catch is it’s a 2.5 mile hike to get there, and unless you set up camp (which you could!) another 2.5 miles back. But if you’re up for it, the hike is glorious.
I hope this was helpful! Any more questions in regards to eloping near Asheville, like say, where to get quality local flowers, cake, or an officiant? I’d be delighted to point you in the right direction.
Congrats on finding each other! Personally, I think that maintaining a healthy partnership is enough work. The wedding itself ought to be low stress and FUN!
Cheers, Eliza