How to Elope in the North Carolina Mountains – A Guide for Couples
The Blue Ridge Parkway is FILLED with some of the most gorgeous landscapes, hikes and mountain views, making it the perfect area for an elopement. Here is what you need to know about eloping in North Carolina!!
1. PLAN AHEAD & DO RESEARCH – Do research on location!
Some ideas:
- Max Patch Trail
- Black Balsam Knob
- Linville Gorge
- Looking Glass Falls
- Something Blue Mountain Venue
- Jump Off Rock
Do research on hiking distances and conditions before you choose a location to make sure it’s the best fit for your elopement.
Some things to consider:
- How many guests do you want to be there? (Some locations have a guest limit)
- What time of day do you want to get married?
- How accessible is the location? (Will your family be able to get there comfortably? Will you have to drive or hike?)
- Are there any activities you want to incorporate?
- What will the weather be like? (How will you have to prepare for the weather?)
- How busy or secluded is the location? (Consider the time of year! October is always a busy month because it’s peak foliage)
2. CHOOSE A LOCATION & GET A PERMIT – Locations that are part of the Blue Ridge Parkway require a permit for ceremonies, where as locations that are part of the Pisgah National Forest (like Max Patch) do not. You can find permit info HERE.
- The BRP doesn’t issue permits for the month of October due to how busy the parks are.
- Permits have a maximum of 25 guests
3. FIND A PLACE TO STAY – Asheville is a great town near the mountains to stay for your elopement weekend!! It’s close to many parts of the parkway and has a lot of beautiful airbnb options!! You’ll be amazed by all the stunning airbnbs hidden in the mountains. Read my blog post of “THE BEST AIRBNB’S IN NORTH CAROLINA FOR A WEDDING OR ELOPEMENT”
Click here to view this A-frame cabin on Airbnb!!
4. PLAN THE WHOLE DAY – After choosing your ceremony spot, getting your permit and booking a place to stay, find some fun things to do near that area!! You could incorporate pretty much anything you love to do into your elopement! Here is a list of ideas:
- Watch the sunrise/sunset
- Go hiking
- Have a picnic/dinner
- Campfire to end the day
- Stargazing
- Drive along the parkway and stop at different spots
Check out this blog post for a sample elopement timeline!!
5. CHOOSE YOUR VENDORS: Searching for the perfect vendors on google can be overwhelming, so here’s a list of my favorites!!
- Planners: Honey + Thyme Events, Screendoor Diaries & Co
- Venues: Something Blue Mountain Venue, Airbnb Blog Post
- Florals: Seeded Events & Design, Santara Flowers, Flora Asheville
- Videography: Move Mountains Co (based in RI but their team travels!)
- Dresses: Lovely Bride CLT, Ladies of Lineage, Wildflower Bridal
6. PREPARE FOR THE DAY:
- Finalize your Timeline
- Keep and eye on the weather and prepare for the worst
- Pack everything you need! (Hiking boots are always a must!)
That’s it!! Enjoy your elopement day!!
Click here to contact me to start planning your dream elopement!!
