How to Elope in Western North Carolina
As a wedding and elopement photographer of over 10 years, I have some experience in choosing the best locations for the ultimate WNC elopement and intimate ceremony location. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite places — both venues as well as those locations for the wild at heart — and I even have a few more secrets in my back pocket. I’ve not only photographed weddings and elopements in WNC for over 10 years, but I’ve also lived here, right in the heart of the North Carolina Mountains.
Ready to plan your own adventure?
Bridal Veil falls is a short 5 minute drive from Old Edwards Inn.
WNC venues
Old Edwards Inn
Located in the heart of Highlands, NC, Old Edwards Inn is rustic, boasting lots of history in its beautiful architecture and stunning views. Old Edwards Inn has several different locations to choose from for your amazing day. One of my favorite aspects of Old Edwards Inn is the many waterfalls (like the image to the left) and overlooks that find their home in Highlands.
Tapoco Lodge
Through the winding roads of Robbinsville, NC, you’ll find this amazing venue that’s got killer pizza (if I do say so myself). Surrounded by the Appalachian mountains and a historic site since 1930, this venue boasts several different options for ceremony site. Plus, it’s right beside Lake Santeetlah, which is the perfect location for adventure and engagement sessions.
Lonesome Valley
When you’re here, it feels like somewhere in Montana. With killer views, a nearby pond, and beautiful housing, Lonseome Valley is a serene escape from the bustle of the outside world. With a golf course, cliffside dining, and amazing views, it’s truly one of a kind.
HawkEsdene Estates
The Hawkesdene is one of those quintessential locations that is one of my most favorite places to shoot. The Hawkesdene is an all inclusive resort that houses your guests, provides beautiful options for getting ready, and the people there are so incredibly kind. They are incredibly good at what they do, and are prepared for everything in Andrews, NC.
Nantahala Weddings
Nantahala Weddings and Events is tucked away by Lake Nantahala and is the perfect spot for an intimate ceremony or elopement. Beside a mountain surrounded lake and nearby Wayah Bald, the opportunities are endless for your mountain adventure. You won’t want to sleep on this gorgeous venue.
SNOWBIRD MOUNTAIN LODGE
I know I keep saying this, but Snowbird Mountain Lodge is another favorite of mine when it comes to elopements and intimate weddings. Only hosting around 20-30 max guests, it’s the perfect hidden away location for your micro ceremony. The view from their dining room remains a beautiful view of the Appalachian Mountains. Nearby is also Lake Santeetlah and Yellow Creek Falls, the perfect locations for adventure sessions.
Heritage Park in Andrews, NC boasts incredible views of the mountains surrounding the park.
WNC Locations & sites
HERITAGE PARK
Pictured above, Heritage Park is one of the coolest hidden gems in the heart of Western North Carolina. It’s an open field surrounded by the gorgeous Appalachian Mountains. Nearby are several options for getting ready, photos after the ceremony (like a really awesome airport). This location is honestly one of those sites that I would love to help you with as a local, so just ask!
BLACK BALSAM KNOB
Located off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, this location is one of my absolute favorites. Full of amazing panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains, I love photographing adventure sessions, engagements, and even the occasional surprise proposal. I love getting to show couples hidden gems like Black Balsam Knob!
Lake Santeetlah, in Robbinsville, NC, is the perfect location for your adventure session post elopement.
Wayah Bald
As an old fire tower in the WNC, this historic site is part of the Appalachian and Bartram trail. One of the perks of this site is that you can drive straight up to the top of the tower for amazing panoramic views. Amazing at any time of the day, sunrise is especially unique to this option as it rises right over the mountains.
Bell Mountain
Another amazing panoramic view of not just the mountains, but Lake Chatuge, this location is another private place that you can drive straight up to. It’s height is absolutely breathtaking, and an ideal spot for any engagement, adventure, proposal, or even your elopement. While this location isn’t technically located in North Carolina, it overlooks the North Carolina lake that borders both NC and GA.
Yellow Creek Falls
This hidden gem is one of those locations that you wouldn’t know about without a local expert guide (ahem, moi!). It’s a beautiful waterfall that you hike about a mile once you park at the mile marker. Perfect for adventure and engagement sessions!
Interested in any of these locations? I value direct communication and couples who place their story, moments, people, and legacy over productions or perfection. My couples don’t want the same ole boring wedding photos, but they value real art, honest adventure, intentional stories.
If this sounds like you, then fill the form out below and let’s meet!
