Wedding

Destination Wedding In Charlotte

A destination wedding is a magical way for couples to tie the knot in a location away from home, combining the beauty of travel with the joy of marriage. These weddings allow couples to exchange vows in picturesque settings while offering guests a mini-vacation experience. The charm of destination weddings lies in their uniqueness, creating unforgettable memories in stunning venues, and offering the chance to blend a wedding with travel adventure. Popular destinations include beaches, vineyards, and cultural cities, but one often overlooked gem is Charlotte, North Carolina.

Charlotte’s rich history, modern charm, and Southern hospitality make it an ideal choice for couples seeking a unique and elegant destination wedding. From lush gardens and luxury hotels to rustic barns and historic sites, Charlotte offers a variety of stunning venues for any style. Couples also enjoy Charlotte’s convenient location, world-class caterers, talented photographers, and florists who can bring any vision to life. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top venues, vendors, and tips to plan a perfect destination wedding in the Queen City.

Top 10 Wedding Venues

When choosing a wedding venue, couples should consider the venue’s size, ambiance, location, and services offered. Think about whether you prefer an indoor or outdoor ceremony, the availability of on-site catering, and if the venue provides necessary amenities like furniture, lighting, or sound systems.

1. The Duke Mansion

Description: A historic mansion with elegant gardens and charming ballrooms. The Duke Mansion is perfect for couples seeking a classic Southern setting.
Address: 400 Hermitage Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
Contact: (704) 714-4400, www.dukemansion.com

2. The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte

Description: A luxurious venue offering stunning ballrooms and a rooftop terrace. Ideal for couples who want an upscale urban wedding.
Address: 201 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Contact: (704) 547-2244, www.ritzcarlton.com

3. The Ballantyne Hotel

Description: A resort-style venue with expansive lawns, a grand ballroom, and views of a pristine golf course. Perfect for a grand affair.
Address: 10000 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28277
Contact: (704) 248-4000, www.theballantynehotel.com

4. Alexander Homestead

Description: A restored Victorian farmhouse surrounded by gardens, offering a rustic yet elegant atmosphere for outdoor ceremonies.
Address: 4717 Shamrock Dr, Charlotte, NC 28215
Contact: (704) 737-1023, www.alexanderhomesteadweddings.com

5. Foundation for the Carolinas

Description: A modern venue featuring an art gallery, rooftop terrace, and stunning views of Uptown Charlotte. Perfect for couples looking for a contemporary space.
Address: 220 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Contact: (704) 973-4500, www.fftc.org

6. The Palmer Building

Description: A charming historic firehouse with exposed brick and large windows, ideal for intimate weddings with character.
Address: 2601 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 28204
Contact: (704) 347-1216, www.palmerbuilding.com

7. Byron’s South End

Description: A versatile venue in a restored factory, offering a blend of industrial chic and Southern elegance.
Address: 101 W Worthington Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203
Contact: (704) 333-9744, www.byronscharlotte.com

8. Separk Mansion

Description: A majestic 1920s mansion with a grand ballroom, marble floors, and lush gardens for a fairy-tale wedding.
Address: 209 W 2nd Ave, Gastonia, NC 28052 (20-minute drive from Charlotte)
Contact: (704) 266-0014, www.separkmansion.com

9. The Mint Museum Uptown

Description: A stunning venue within the heart of the city’s art scene, offering contemporary spaces for modern couples.
Address: 500 S Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Contact: (704) 337-2000, www.mintmuseum.org

10. Providence Cotton Mill

Description: A unique venue located outside Charlotte, featuring rustic open-air ruins perfect for couples seeking a blend of history and nature.
Address: 299 S NC Hwy 16, Maiden, NC 28650 (40-minute drive from Charlotte)
Contact: (828) 469-6342, www.providencecottonmill.com

Top 10 Caterers

Consider whether the caterer can customize the menu to your taste, dietary needs, and wedding theme. High-quality ingredients, presentation, and service are crucial. Sampling the food beforehand is always recommended.

1. Roots Catering

Cuisine: Farm-to-table, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for their creative seasonal menus and impeccable presentation.
Contact: (704) 615-7740, www.roots-catering.com

2. Best Impressions Caterers

Cuisine: American and international gourmet cuisine.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers full-service event planning along with catering.
Contact: (704) 333-9779, www.bestimpressionscaterers.com

3. QC Catering

Cuisine: Customizable menus, with a focus on personalized service.
What Makes Them Unique: Excellent at tailoring menus to fit themes and dietary restrictions.
Contact: (704) 305-7778, www.qccatering.com

4. SMS Catering Services

Cuisine: Southern BBQ, seafood, and traditional fare.
What Makes Them Unique: Specializes in large weddings with outdoor catering setups.
Contact: (704) 536-1500, www.smscater.com

5. Chef’s Catering

Cuisine: Specializes in high-end cuisine with global influences.
What Makes Them Unique: Personalized menus crafted by experienced chefs.
Contact: (704) 321-2121, www.chefscatering.com

6. Plate Perfect Catering

Cuisine: Contemporary cuisine with a Southern twist.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for stylish presentations and high-end service.
Contact: (704) 343-0155, www.plateperfect.com

7. Delectables by Holly

Cuisine: Elegant Southern cuisine with upscale options.
What Makes Them Unique: Renowned for flawless presentation and attention to detail.
Contact: (704) 342-4800, www.delectablesbyholly.com

8. The Smoke Pit

Cuisine: Authentic BBQ.
What Makes Them Unique: Award-winning BBQ perfect for a rustic or Southern wedding theme.
Contact: (704) 639-5604, www.thesmokepit.com

9. Table & Twine

Cuisine: Contemporary seasonal menus with luxury ingredients.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers premium wedding packages with gourmet meal kits.
Contact: (980) 224-7722, www.tableandtwine.com

10. TIN Kitchen

Cuisine: Eclectic street food.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers a food truck option for a casual or trendy wedding.
Contact: (704) 750-0477, www.tinkitchen.com

Top 10 Photographers

Couples should choose a photographer whose style resonates with their vision—whether it’s traditional, photojournalistic, or modern. Experience with weddings and an ability to capture candid, emotional moments are key.

1. Critsey Rowe Photography

Style: Romantic and candid.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for her ability to capture natural, emotion-filled moments.
Contact: (704) 777-7707, www.critseyrowe.com

2. Indigo Photography

Style: Timeless and classic with a modern twist.
What Makes Them Unique: Consistent in capturing both posed and candid moments.
Contact: (704) 651-1089, www.indigophotography.net

3. Old South Studios

Style: Bright and vibrant.
What Makes Them Unique: Specializes in storytelling through wedding photos.
Contact: (704) 258-3117, www.oldsouthstudios.com

4. Christopher Bell Photography

Style: Elegant and dramatic.
What Makes Them Unique: Focuses on editorial-style shots that tell a story.
Contact: (704) 599-5845, www.christopherbellphotography.com

5. Juliet Photography

Style: Photojournalistic and documentary.
What Makes Them Unique: Focuses on capturing the day as it unfolds naturally.
Contact: (704) 200-1402, www.julietphotography.com

6. Smitten & Hooked

Style: Playful and artistic.
What Makes Them Unique: Unique photo compositions and an emphasis on fun.
Contact: (704) 779-6755, www.smittenandhooked.com

7. Moving Mountains Studios

Style: Cinematic and editorial.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers both photography and videography services.
Contact: (704) 979-5950, www.movingmountains.com

8. Capture Me Candid

Style: Natural light and lifestyle photography.
What Makes Them Unique: Focuses on candid and intimate moments.
Contact: (704) 401-1219, www.capturemecandid.com

9. Richard Israel Photography

Style: Fine art and fashion-inspired.
What Makes Them Unique: Combines editorial and fine art techniques for stunning images.
Contact: (704) 533-7311, www.richardisrael.com

10. Pixelated Perfection

Style: Contemporary and fresh.
What Makes Them Unique: Focuses on capturing emotions and the energy of the day.
Contact: (704) 333-1234, www.pixelatedperfection.com

Top 10 Florists

Consider whether the florist can capture your wedding vision, whether it’s classic, modern, or bohemian. Look for florists who prioritize fresh, seasonal blooms and have experience with weddings of your size and scale.

1. Nectar Floral Designs

Style: Romantic and classic.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for creating lush, garden-inspired arrangements.
Contact: (704) 905-9808, www.nectarfloraldesigns.com

2. The Flower Diva

Style: Whimsical and elegant.
What Makes Them Unique: Specializes in creative and modern floral arrangements.
Contact: (704) 888-6083, www.theflowerdiva.com

3. Lily Greenthumb’s

Style: Bold and colorful.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for their use of vibrant, unique blooms.
Contact: (704) 375-8420, www.lilygreenthumbs.com

4. Carey Roberts Design Co.

Style: Timeless and luxurious.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers highly customized floral designs for upscale weddings.
Contact: (704) 458-4534, www.careyrobertsdesignco.com

5. CLUX Florals

Style: Modern and minimalist.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers chic and minimalist arrangements with contemporary flair.
Contact: (704) 340-8344, www.cluxflorals.com

6. The Bloom Room

Style: Romantic and classic.
What Makes Them Unique: Specializes in elegant, timeless designs with fresh flowers.
Contact: (704) 616-9782, www.bloomroomdesigns.com

7. Willow Floral Boutique

Style: Boho and rustic.
What Makes Them Unique: Focuses on natural, free-flowing arrangements.
Contact: (704) 201-7131, www.willowfloralboutique.com

8. Bella Blooms

Style: Traditional and lavish.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for creating dramatic floral installations.
Contact: (704) 502-4486, www.bellabloomsdesign.com

9. Bookout Blooms

Style: Garden-inspired.
What Makes Them Unique: Focuses on using locally grown flowers and greenery.
Contact: (704) 560-2598, www.bookoutblooms.com

10. Urban Petals

Style: Modern and edgy.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers unique arrangements with a blend of exotic and local flowers.
Contact: (704) 380-3500, www.urbanpetals.com

Top 10 Wedding Planners

Choose a planner with experience coordinating weddings of your size and style. Look for planners who can recommend trusted vendors, manage logistics, and ensure your wedding runs smoothly.

1. Carolina Wedding Belle

Services: Full-service planning, day-of coordination.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers personalized wedding experiences.
Contact: (704) 651-0551, www.carolinaweddingbelle.com

2. Head Over Heels

Services: Full-service wedding design and execution.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for impeccable attention to detail and luxury weddings.
Contact: (704) 749-2150, www.headoverheelsweddings.com

3. Magnificent Moments Weddings

Services: Full-service planning, day-of coordination.
What Makes Them Unique: Specializes in large-scale, elegant weddings.
Contact: (704) 233-7576, www.magnificentmomentsweddings.com

4. Hall & Webb

Services: Event design, coordination.
What Makes Them Unique: Focuses on unique, tailor-made wedding experiences.
Contact: (704) 441-3099, www.hallandwebbevents.com

5. The Graceful Host

Services: Luxury wedding planning.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for stylish and opulent weddings.
Contact: (704) 891-1004, www.thegracefulhost.com

6. Party Reflections

Services: Event rentals and wedding planning.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers both rental services and full wedding planning.
Contact: (704) 332-8176, www.partyreflections.com

7. Details Wedding Planning

Services: Customizable planning packages.
What Makes Them Unique: Known for stress-free planning experiences.
Contact: (704) 576-2222, www.detailsweddingplanning.com

8. Creative Events

Services: Full-service planning, design.
What Makes Them Unique: Specializes in modern, creative weddings.
Contact: (704) 679-1724, www.creativeeventscharlotte.com

9. Something Perfect Weddings

Services: Partial and full-service planning.
What Makes Them Unique: Provides a seamless planning process with attention to detail.
Contact: (704) 313-8588, www.somethingperfectweddings.com

10. A Simple Affair Events

Services: Full-service planning and coordination.
What Makes Them Unique: Offers customized planning packages for every couple.
Contact: (704) 962-4077, www.asimpleaffairweddings.com

Where to Host the Welcome Reception

1. Merchant & Trade

Description: A rooftop bar with stunning views of Uptown Charlotte, ideal for a chic welcome reception.
Address: 303 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Contact: (704) 445-2550, www.merchantandtrade.com

2. City Club of Charlotte

Description: A private club with elegant ballrooms and an exclusive atmosphere.
Address: 121 W Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Contact: (704) 334-3200, www.clubcorp.com

3. The Barrel Room at Triple C Brewing

Description: A rustic and relaxed brewery setting for a more casual reception.
Address: 2900 Griffith St, Charlotte, NC 28203
Contact: (704) 372-3212, www.triplecbrewing.com

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

For bachelor parties, consider a day of outdoor adventure at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, followed by a brewery tour along Charlotte’s Beer Mile. For a more laid-back experience, rent a private suite at a Charlotte Hornets or Panthers game.

For bachelorette parties, a spa day at The Ritz-Carlton Spa followed by a night out at The Punch Room is perfect for relaxation and fun. Alternatively, take a wine tour at nearby vineyards such as Treehouse Vineyards.

Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules

Location: Mecklenburg County Register of Deeds, 720 E 4th St, Charlotte, NC 28202

Requirements: Couples must both be present to apply for the license. They must present valid photo IDs (such as driver’s licenses or passports) and social security numbers. There is no waiting period in North Carolina, but the license is only valid for 60 days.

Cost: $60

Additional Information: Couples do not need a blood test or witnesses to apply. You can apply online through the Mecklenburg County Register of Deeds website to expedite the process.

Contact: (704) 336-2443, www.meckrod.manatron.com

Additional Considerations

Transportation: Recommend booking a shuttle service or limo for guest transfers between the airport and hotels. Uber and Lyft are widely available in Charlotte, but larger wedding groups may benefit from organized transport.

Accommodations: Popular hotels near wedding venues include The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte, Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel, and The Westin Charlotte.

Group Activities: Plan excursions to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Freedom Park, or a tour of the local breweries to entertain guests during their stay.

Conclusion

Planning a destination wedding in Charlotte offers couples the perfect blend of Southern hospitality, modern amenities, and natural beauty. From stunning venues and top-tier vendors to exciting group activities and welcome receptions, Charlotte has everything needed to make your wedding unforgettable. With careful planning and the right team of professionals, your Charlotte wedding will be a truly unique and memorable event for you and your guests.