Finding the perfect venue is crucial when planning your dream wedding, especially if you envision an intimate celebration. While large weddings have their charm, smaller, more personal gatherings have a special appeal. 

Asheville, North Carolina, with its picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains and vibrant arts scene, offers a plethora of the best small wedding venues for couples seeking a truly special setting. Fortunately, Jeanne’s Hair and Makeup Studio provides on-site bridal hair and makeup services for elopements, micro weddings, or minimonies, so you can look and feel your absolute best on your special day. We also offer a very sweet location for smaller ceremonies, or simply preparing for your big day.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Small Wedding Venue

Before you start falling in love with charming barns and mountain-view terraces, let's break down the key factors that will make choosing your venue a breeze.

1. Guest List Size and Layout

First and foremost, how many guests are you planning to have? This will significantly influence which venues you should be considering. Do you envision a cozy gathering of 20 or a slightly larger celebration with 50 of your nearest and dearest?

Think about your desired layout. Do you dream of a sit-down dinner, a cocktail-style reception, or a dance floor where everyone can let loose? Determining your preferred layout helps narrow down venues that suit your vision.

2. Location and Accessibility

Asheville is a region blessed with natural beauty. Consider whether you want a venue in downtown Asheville, a serene mountaintop retreat center, or perhaps a vineyard bathed in golden hour light.

Think about the venue's accessibility for your guests. Are there convenient parking options, or is it easily accessible by public transportation?

3. Budget and What's Included

Wedding venues come with varying price points, so having a clear budget in mind from the get-go will help avoid any surprises. It’s important to inquire about what is included in the venue's rental fee.

Do they offer tables, chairs, linens, or do you have to rent those separately? Understanding these aspects can significantly impact your overall wedding budget. Some venues may offer wedding packages that can streamline your planning process and offer potential cost savings. Consider what best fits your needs.

4. Catering Options

Food is a central part of any celebration. Determine if the venue has in-house catering options or if you’re allowed to bring in external caterers. This impacts both the food style and cost flexibility.

5. Ambiance and Style

Asheville boasts a unique blend of rustic charm and urban sophistication. Think about the ambiance that resonates with your wedding vision. Do you envision a rustic barn setting, a modern art gallery space, or an outdoor garden ceremony? Asheville has event spaces to cater to every style.

Remember that this is your day. It's all about finding a venue located in Asheville, NC that mirrors your personalities and love story.

Unveiling Asheville's Hidden Gems

Asheville is brimming with charm, history, and a vibrant culture. There’s much more to explore than just the venues themselves. For example, consider that North Carolina is steeped in a rich historical tapestry.

Take Stagville Plantation, for instance, once one of the largest plantations in the American South. Now a state historic site, it stands as a solemn reminder of a bygone era and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. To this day, Stagville welcomes visitors to learn from its past. More details can be found on Stagville Plantation.

From majestic mountain peaks like North Carolina State Parks to serene shores, this southern state holds an allure for those who seek natural wonders. If you ever wanted to visit all the national treasures, it would be beneficial to know just how many state parks there are across the country. There are a significant amount. Asheville wedding venues are perfect if you are looking to combine breathtaking mountain views with the convenience of a dedicated wedding venue.

Why Small Wedding Venues in Asheville are Gaining Popularity

Small wedding venues are more popular than ever. It could be that couples love that they are inherently designed for intimacy. Every detail can be carefully curated and personalized, leading to a meaningful and memorable occasion for all.

1. Intimate Atmosphere

Smaller settings create a cozier, warmer atmosphere where everyone feels like a VIP guest.

2. Budget-Friendly

This might seem counterintuitive, but yes, micro-weddings can actually save you money without compromising your dream wedding aesthetic.

3. Focus on Connection

By choosing a more intimate wedding in Asheville, NC, you'll be creating an atmosphere where connections blossom, allowing you to spend quality time with each guest and share laughter, stories, and heartfelt conversations. This is, after all, about celebrating love. The warmth of shared stories and meaningful conversations lingers far beyond the last dance. 

If you have guests that require special accommodations in transportation while in North Carolina, there are excellent local resources to help them get where they need to be to connect with friends and family.

The Perks of Choosing Asheville

Imagine exchanging vows against a backdrop of cascading waterfalls, exchanging rings in a charming vineyard, or saying your "I Do’s" in a cozy cabin tucked away in the woods. You could also consider a modern art gallery space or even an outdoor garden ceremony. Asheville doesn’t disappoint. So how do you pick when there are so many choices?

Discover the Enchantment: Exploring the Best Small Wedding Venues in Asheville

1. The Barn on New River

Located just outside of Asheville,//www.google.com/maps/place/The+Barn+on+New+River/@36.3139114,-81.4463806,15z/data=.4m2.3m1.1s0x0:0x1c952c9bf11442e6?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiVzbDCv83-AhXdMDQIHZ6XAZUQ_BJ6BAgyEAk" style="text-decoration: none;"> The Barn on New River offers rustic beauty and is perfect for couples looking for a touch of country charm with a dash of elegance. The address for this venue is 2162 S Fork Farm Ln, West Jefferson, NC 28694. What's really captivating about this venue are the glowing 5-star reviews it receives. 

2. Hidden River Events

Nestled amongst the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hidden River Events is a true gem. The tranquil sound of the Swannanoa River sets the stage for a serene outdoor ceremony at+NC+28778/@35.5798903,-82.5861939,12z/data=.3m1.4b1.4m9.4m8.1m1.4e1.1m5.1m1.1s0x8859f6d834aa63f1:0xa83bfff70a39cb4f.2m2.1d-82.434638.2d35.60249" style="text-decoration: none;"> 30 Hidden River Dr. Swannanoa, NC 28778. The ceremony site offers a beautiful setting.

3. Laughing Waters Retreat

Laughing Waters Retreat Center, also known as Water's Retreat Center, is the perfect place to host your rehearsal dinner. Whether you are looking for a rustic barn wedding or a modern farmhouse aesthetic, Laughing Waters Retreat has you covered.

4. Longleaf Vineyard

Tucked amidst the rolling hills, this picturesque venue allows you to tie the knot amidst nature’s grandeur. Their all-inclusive wedding packages simplify planning while the breathtaking vineyard setting adds a touch of rustic elegance to your big day. Check out their wedding venue and more. Learn about their wedding venues in Asheville, their elopement packages, or get lost in the beauty of their wedding galleries.

5. Reverie Asheville

Nestled in downtown Asheville, Reverie offers a sleek, urban vibe with its blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. You can find the perfect setting for an intimate ceremony and a lively reception all under one roof. They offer day-of coordination, custom cocktails, floral services, and custom signage to elevate your experience. 

Their in-house chef-curated culinary experience will delight even the pickiest eater. For the convenience of planning your transportation route or arranging ride-sharing options, it's helpful to know exactly how far the venue is from major roadways and interstates.

6. Bent Creek Lodge

Located in the beautiful Bent Creek Experimental Forest, this venue provides breathtaking natural backdrops for your special day. If the happy couple are looking for an adventure-filled honeymoon in North Carolina, there’s much to consider doing; for example, the couple could rent ATVs. Did you know that ATV dealers in NC can even help match you to the best machine?

The gift certificate options offered by the lodge make for delightful wedding favors or even contributions towards the cost of accommodations for those traveling from afar. Additionally, guests who extend their stay have the option to conveniently make reservations at the lodge, ensuring a seamless experience.

7. Emerald Ridge Farm

Emerald Ridge Farm is another great option to check out. They offer panoramic mountain views and can accommodate both your wedding reception and rehearsal dinner. If you are looking for something in particular that the venue offers, it's always best to request a quote to see if they can meet your needs.

8. The Historic Broadway Arts Building

If you are looking for an Asheville wedding venue located more in the city, then look no further. This historic broadway arts building will allow you to capture the perfect wedding photos. You will love the modern farmhouse aesthetic this venue has to offer.

9. Jeanne’s Hair and Makeup Wedding Venue

If you’re looking for ease, beauty, intimacy, and simplicity in your planning, Jeanne’s Hair and Makeup is your answer. We can provide hair and makeup services on-site, providing a beautiful space for the bride to get ready, a venue to hold your ceremony, and a small cottage to stay in after. This is a great solution for brides who want everything taken care of in one spot, with quick access to everything Asheville has to offer. 

Tips for Planning a Small Wedding in Asheville

To make your Asheville wedding truly shine, consider the following:

1. Personalize Your Decor: Let your personalities radiate. Infuse your unique style, incorporating meaningful elements that reflect your journey as a couple.
2. Hire Local Vendors: Embrace the talent pool and look at florists, photographers, or even entertainment.
3. Guest Experience: Plan for fun, interactive activities that guests can enjoy. Arrange lawn games for a laid-back vibe, or if it's a colder evening, cozy up with a bonfire and s'mores bar for a magical touch.

Hold Your Small Wedding in Asheville with Jeanne’s Hair and Makeup

Asheville offers many enchanting wedding venues to choose from, ensuring your special day will be one to cherish. Your journey starts with picking the perfect location, but your forever memories begin with celebrating in one of the best small wedding venues in Asheville. 

Embrace the journey, embrace your love, and embark on your new chapter amidst the magical backdrop of Asheville. Now let's create some unforgettable memories.

Whether you need on-site hair and makeup services at your destination of choice, or want to use us for all your needs in one spot (including a venue), reach out to us today. Let’s chat about what you need and find solutions together!