Elope in Asheville, NC: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
From dreamy ridge-lines to tucked-away forests, Asheville is the perfect place to celebrate your love in the wild & wonderful Blue Ridge Mountains
For Nature Lovers (and Those Craving the More Relaxed)
You’re probably dreaming of a celebration that feels intimate, laid-back, and true to who you are—a once-in-a-lifetime day without the overwhelm of a big wedding. Sound about right? If so, you’re in the perfect place. With my local expertise and love for these mountains, I’ll help you elope in Asheville or the surrounding area, crafting a day where you can breathe deeply, slow down, and soak in the beauty of waterfalls, mountaintops, and everything else WNC has to offer.
My Hometown, Your Elopement: a Decade of Local Elopement Wisdom in 10 Minutes
This land is a deep part of my heritage, and weaving its beauty together with your unique love story is one of my greatest joys. With a lifetime of exploring winding gravel roads, hidden hiking trails, and charming small towns across Appalachia—and 10 years of guiding couples as they say “I do” here—you can feel at ease knowing all this good info is from caring and capable hands.
Key Takeaways:
Asheville has endless options : from Blue Ridge mountain views to waterfalls, forests, and cozy city corners.
Elopements give you freedom : you can keep traditions you love, skip the ones you don’t, and create a day that actually feels like you.
Planning is easier than it seems : with the right steps (permits, timing, vendors), you can have a stress-free, meaningful celebration in Asheville.
Here’s What We’ll Cover:
Reasons to Elope in Asheville
Choosing a Place to Elope
The Best Time to Elope & Picking Your Day
What to Do During Your Elopement
Marriage License & Park Permits
Getting Around & Where to Stay
What to Wear for Your Elopement
Photography and Videography
Common Questions
An Elopement Experience You Love
Reasons to Elope in Asheville
If you’re thinking about eloping in or around Asheville, you’re in for a treat. This area has a unique mix of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and charming small-town charm that makes it perfect for an intimate, personalized celebration. From misty mountaintops and hidden waterfalls to cozy corners in the heart of the city, there are so many ways to craft a day that feels like you. Whether you’re drawn to adventure, simplicity, or a little bit of both, Asheville offers the flexibility and inspiration to make your elopement truly unforgettable.
Scenic Beauty
Asheville and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains offer breathtaking natural landscapes, including lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views. Many couples are drawn to the area’s picturesque beauty as a backdrop for their elopement ceremony and photos.
Food, Arts, and Culture
Asheville’s charming downtown area, with its historic architecture, artsy vibe, and vibrant food and music scene, creates a romantic atmosphere that appeals to couples seeking an intimate and memorable wedding experience. You are sure to find whatever kind of experience you want to have in this diverse mecca.
Elopement-Friendly Venues and Vendors
Asheville and its surrounding areas offer a variety of elopement-friendly venues, including intimate chapels, scenic overlooks, rustic barns, and elegant resorts, providing options to suit different preferences and styles. There’s also an amazingly rich community of vendors eager to support you throughout your unique elopement experience.
Dreamy Destination Vibes
Asheville is a popular destination for couples from both within and outside the region. Its accessibility, diverse attractions, and range of accommodations make it an attractive choice for couples looking to combine their wedding with a memorable getaway.
Inclusive and Welcoming Environment
Asheville’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere embraces all individuals, regardless of their sexuality, gender expression, ethnicity, or background. Couples seeking a place where they can freely express their love without judgment find solace in our open-minded community. Here, diversity is not just celebrated, but cherished, making it the perfect destination for couples to exchange vows and create lasting memories.
Dog-Friendly
Asheville’s reputation as a dog-friendly destination adds to its allure for couples seeking to include their furry companions in their special day. With numerous pet-friendly accommodations, outdoor adventures, and even dog-friendly dining options, Asheville ensures that every member of the family can partake in the joyous celebration of love.
“I think one of her greatest strengths is how she helped us stay in the moment and made us feel comfortable. It wasn't just about being outside on our wedding day; it was about really being in nature and embracing everything that an outdoor elopement means.”
— Gracie & Rob
Choosing a Place to Elope in Asheville
Asheville and the surrounding small towns are filled with gorgeous parks, lakes, and forests for you to choose from. If you need help narrowing down your options, I can help!
Here’s a quick breakdown of your choices:
Explore the vast wonders of Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, which together blanket a majority of Western North Carolina, offering an array of enchanting spaces for your elopement. While Pisgah tends to draw more visitors, Nantahala's serene landscapes beckon those seeking solitude. Yet, both forests boast stunning waterfalls, panoramic vistas, meandering rivers, and endless trails, providing a wealth of options for crafting your perfect day amidst nature's splendor.
Embrace once-in-a-lifetime moments amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile mountain road journeying from Western North Carolina to Virginia. I help my couples discover secluded spots and scenic trails perfect for crafting intentional elopements. With its accessible yet captivating vistas, it's the perfect setting for those seeking to immerse themselves in purposeful connections with nature and each other.
Check off a National Park from your bucket list for your elopement! Imagine saying 'I do' amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, spanning the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. While it can be very busy, this iconic park offers a wealth of exploration opportunities across its diverse landscapes. Whether you prefer easy access locations or are drawn to long hikes and backpacking adventures, the Great Smoky Mountains cater to every kind of nature lover, ensuring an elopement experience as unique as your love.
Private Venues
If you're looking for more ensured privacy for your celebration, Western NC offers a wealth of secluded spaces perfectly suited for your elopement. From serene flower farms to exclusive wedding venues and cozy rental homes, you'll find an array of private settings where you can exchange vows without interruptions. With no worries about other people being present, you'll have the freedom to set up additional elements like chairs and a wedding arch, ensuring your day is as intimate and personalized as you've always dreamed.
NC State Parks
The remainder of public land in Western NC comprises state parks such as Gorges, Grandfather Mountain, and Mt. Mitchell. These stunning landscapes offer picturesque settings for your elopement, with the added convenience of nearby facilities such as campgrounds and restrooms. Ideal for couples who prefer to be closer to accommodations while still immersing themselves in the natural beauty of North Carolina.
Not Sure Which Location to Choose?
You're probably feeling a bit overwhelmed by the abundance choices in the Asheville area for your elopement... I get it - But don't worry! I'm here to help you navigate through the options and find the perfect spot that resonates with your unique vision.
With my local expertise and personalized guidance, together we'll turn your elopement dreams into a reality. Don't hesitate to reach out. We will connect to see if I'm a good fit for you before we start planning your unforgettable celebration in nature.
You don't have to do this alone!
The Best Time of Year to Elope in Asheville
Among the myriad decisions couples face when planning their elopement, perhaps none is as pivotal as choosing the perfect season. In Asheville, each season unfolds with its own distinctive allure, presenting couples with a canvas of possibilities. My advice? Read my descriptions, listen to your gut, and choose whatever feels like a good fit for you!
Spring || March — May
Spring stands out as one of the prime seasons for elopements in Western NC and it's not hard to see why. From the vibrant blooms of our diverse plant life paired with milder temperatures, this time of year offers an enchanting and colorful backdrop for your special day.
Summer || June — August
While Summer brings warmth and a lush backdrop of greenery, it also invites crowds, especially with school vacations. However, fear not - That's nothing a lesser-known location and access to cooling water spots can't fix! If you dream of getting in one of our crystal clear rivers or lakes during your elopement - this is the time!
Fall || September — November
The Fall is the absolute most popular season to elope in Asheville for - you guessed it - the colors! There’s nothing like when the trees turn red, orange, and yellow, lighting up the landscape. Plus the weather is ideal with a balance of warm with a crisp chill in the air. The downside to eloping here in the fall? Crowds. LOTS of people visit here to “leaf look” So finding locations, where you can avoid the tourists is key.
Winter || December — February
Winter in the mountains can be surprisingly magical. You might get lucky with our gentle snowfall, but even without it you will get graced with views you wouldn't experience in any other season. The color of the mountains seem to change this time of year to an even bluer tone and you're inspired to snuggle up by a fire and enjoy the quieter time of year on the trails.
Tips for Choosing Your Elopement Date in Asheville
✓⃝ Choose to elope on a weekday - the less crowded the trails, the better.
✓⃝ Confirm when your location and/or venue is available or accessible for booking or permitting.
✓⃝ Avoid holidays - a very important way to try and avoid crowds and get some privacy!
✓⃝ Decide what type of weather you want to experience, and pick a month based on that.
✓⃝ Plan around personal time off for a stress-free experience!
Your Elopement is Not a Photoshoot
Your wedding experience is worth so much more than a simple ceremony and an hour of posed photos. You want something that honors your story and shares your values; a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with the things you love most and new stories to tell!
Here is just a short list of some fun activities you could enjoy if you elope in Asheville with me:
Sunrise & sunset watching
Waterfall chasing
Yoga, massage, meditation, spas
Private chef meals
Campfire s'mores
Renting a lake boat
Foraging mushrooms
Hammocking
A fancy meal
Hiking or backpacking
Stargazing
Biking
Swimming hole exploring
Dreamy picnics
Hot air balloon rides
Kayaking or canoeing
Tubing or rafting
…and so much more!
“On top of being an amazing photographer and videographer, she also really helps you plan out the day and is so supportive through the whole process.”
— Sophie & Elliot
Obtaining a Marriage License to Elope in Asheville
You will likely get a marriage license from the Buncombe County Register of Deeds during office hours (8 AM - 5 PM) if you're eloping around Asheville.
You may complete the marriage license application by printing it out at home before your arrival, or you can just fill it out when you get there
Both people must be present with valid Photo ID’s AND social security cards
The Marriage License fee is $60
The license is valid for 60 days and can be used anywhere in NC
Getting Around & Where to Stay in Asheville
How to Get Around When You Elope
Asheville is a smaller town, not a big city. Therefore, it doesn’t have a lot of taxi or ride-share services like Uber or Lyft. There are a handful, but there aren’t many. I highly recommend renting a car or bringing your own! Having your own car will allow you the freedom to explore when and where you want. Plus, there are a lot of outdoor areas that don’t have service around here, so you wouldn’t be able to call a ride anyway. If you are feeling adventurous and want to make sure you have access to everything, I suggest renting an SUV. There are a lot of bumpy dirt roads and pull-offs that need a higher clearance vehicle that would make navigation much easier.
Where to Stay to Elope
I’m a big fan of house rentals or straight-up camping for the privacy and natural spaces they provide. There are BEAUTIFUL and really cute rentals all over Western NC. Some also allow elopements to take place on their property - just be sure to ask beforehand to make sure. You can search for local rentals on Airbnb or VRBO.
My suggestion is to try and support locals who have spaces to rent (instead of people who live other places and have rentals here - it helps the local economy more this way). Hotels are usually incredibly expensive, and not that exciting for photo or video shots in my opinion, so I don’t recommend them.
Extra tip:
Try to pick where you stay after you’ve picked where you want to explore on your elopement day. It’s not uncommon to have to drive an hour or two to get to some of the best spots in the area, so picking a place to stay based on your elopement ceremony location will be helpful!
“She helped us find the perfect location and guided us through every step. When the day came, she helped us feel completely at ease and fully in the moment.”
— Melissa & Danny
What to Wear for Your Elopement
My biggest piece of advice when it comes to picking your wedding clothes for an outdoor elopement in Asheville is to choose what you feel your most comfortable AND your most confident in. You don't have to go down any traditional route. Get creative and have fun with it! This is about representing you as your truest selves, so choose an outfit that feels like YOU.
Dresses or Skirts
If you’re planning to wear a dress, think about what your day is actually going to look like. Are you hiking up a mountain trail? Choose something lightweight and flowy around the hips and legs so you can move easily (bonus: it’ll look amazing in the wind, too). If your plans are more low-key—like a cozy forest ceremony or a short walk to a waterfall—you have more freedom to play with different silhouettes and fabrics. Layers are also your best friend! A cute jacket, wrap, or sweater that you love will not only keep you warm if the temps dip but also give you a different look in your photos. (Psst: I’ve got a whole blog post with even more tips on picking the perfect elopement dress if you want to dive deeper.)
Shirts and Pants
Going with pants or a two-piece outfit? Comfort and flexibility are key. Opt for fabric with a bit of stretch so you can climb, sit, or twirl without worrying about splitting a seam (nobody wants that moment mid-elopement!). Layers work wonders here, too. A well-fitted jacket, cozy sweater, or even a flannel you love will not only keep you comfortable but also photograph beautifully. It’s worth trying on your whole outfit together—layers and all—to make sure you feel good moving around in it before the big day.
Shoes
Shoes can make or break your comfort level, especially if you’re doing any hiking or walking on uneven terrain. Solid hiking boots are always the most reliable choice—they’ll support your feet and ankles while keeping you comfortable for longer adventures. If you’re grabbing new boots, try to break them in ahead of time to avoid blisters (future-you will thank you). Not into boots? Look for shoes with good tread that match your terrain—adventure sandals work great in the summer, and some couples even go barefoot for creekside ceremonies. The best shoe is the one that makes sense for your activity and keeps you comfortable all day long.
Photography and Videography
Hey y’all, I’m Kathryn and I’m here for you
Your photographer/videographer could make or break your elopement day. Choosing someone you will enjoy being around and that you trust is key to feeling comfortable, connected, and celebrated.
So what can you expect from me? As a joyful and gentle soul, my utmost priority is to support you in every possible way. You'll often hear me say, "this is a no judgement zone," and I wholeheartedly mean it. I firmly believe that the best photos and films capture honest moments, so my goal is to allow you to simply enjoy and be present. Whether we're marveling at the sunrise or sunset, hiking mountains, or swimming together, I'll be right there with you. And when you need some alone time, I'll gladly give you the space you need. From sharing fun facts about cool plants to helping you build a campfire, I'm here for you every step of the way.
Common Questions
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Eloping in North Carolina is pretty flexible, but there are a few things to keep in mind if you want your ceremony to be legal. You’ll need:
A marriage license from any NC county (good for 60 days).
Two witnesses to sign the license.
An officiant to perform the ceremony.
Beyond the legal stuff, the “rules” are mostly about location. Some public lands, like the Blue Ridge Parkway, require a permit and a fee for ceremonies/vow exchanges. National Forest land usually doesn’t require a permit for small ceremonies, but it’s always smart to double-check in case things change.
Other than that? The sky’s the limit. Your elopement can be as relaxed, adventurous, or intimate as you want — NC lets you shape the day that feels most like you.
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If you’re dreaming of a simple, budget-friendly elopement, the best option is North Carolina’s national forests. Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests both allow small wedding ceremonies without requiring a permit or a venue fee — which means you can exchange vows at a waterfall, beside a rushing creek, or on a quiet mountain trail without added costs.
Other public lands, like the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, do require a permit and a fee for any wedding ceremony or vow sharing, with size restrictions. So if keeping it free (and easy!) is your goal, National Forest land is your best bet. And if you’d like help finding a tucked-away, beautiful spot where you won’t run into crowds, that’s one of my favorite parts of guiding couples through the planning process.
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You don’t need years of planning like a traditional wedding, but giving yourself a little breathing room makes the process way smoother. Most couples start planning their Asheville elopement about 6–12 months in advance — that gives you time to book your vendors, secure any permits (if needed), and dream up all the details that make the day feel like you.
That said, I’ve also worked with couples who pulled everything together in just a few weeks. If you’re flexible on date and location, last-minute is totally possible! It really comes down to your vision: do you want a simple hike-and-vows kind of day, or a whole adventure with multiple stops, a cozy Airbnb, and time to celebrate? The more moving parts, the earlier you’ll want to start planning.
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It can be — but it doesn’t have to be. Some couples use their elopement day as the moment they officially tie the knot, with a marriage license, officiant, and two witnesses (which is all you need to make it legal in North Carolina).
Other couples decide they don’t need the paperwork on the day itself — maybe they sign everything at the courthouse before or after, or skip the legal side altogether and simply celebrate their love in a meaningful way. Both options are equally valid. Your elopement can be legally binding, symbolic, or somewhere in between — the beauty is that it’s entirely up to you.
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Eloping in North Carolina is actually super simple! All you need is a marriage license (which you can pick up from any county Register of Deeds office in the state) and an ordained officiant to make things official. NC law requires at least two witnesses to sign your license, so that could be your photographer/videographer (hi, that’s me 👋), a couple of loved ones, or even friendly hikers passing by if you’re in a more remote spot. Once your license is signed and returned, you’re legally married! Some of my couples even choose to get married at their local courthouse before or after having their elopement in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
You can read more about all the details in this blog post. -
Weather in the mountains can be a little unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean it has to ruin your day. The key is having a solid backup plan—and embracing a little flexibility. I always recommend choosing a second location option that’s easy to get to and still beautiful if the weather takes a turn, like a covered spot, a lower-elevation trail, or even a cozy indoor space.
And honestly? Sometimes a little rain, fog, or snow makes for the most magical photos and memories. With the right prep (like good layers, umbrellas, or a change of shoes), you’ll still have an amazing experience no matter what Mother Nature throws our way.
Final Encouragements
An Elopement Experience You Love
Here’s my honest take: Your elopement deserves more than just a cookie-cutter package. It's a once-in-a-lifetime event that deserves personalized attention and care.
I imagine you aren’t choosing an elopement because you value your day less or want to minimize it. In fact, I bet you value your experience SO MUCH that you’re choosing to experience it with intention (and have a little adventure to go with it)!
With packages ranging from four hours to two days, you have the flexibility to embark on a long hike to a private mountaintop, take a kayak trip on a quiet river, have a bonfire in the backyard, host a small celebration ceremony with family and friends, go for an evening bike ride, or enjoy a delicious dinner made by a private chef.
Your options are limitless, and with your final photos and video, you’ll remember every sweet moment forever.
