Congratulations on your engagement! Now that you’re on your way to walking down the aisle, it’s time to find the perfect spot to say “I do”—and Charlotte, NC (and the surrounding area) has
plenty of options available for exquisite wedding venues. Whether you’re looking for an intimate
garden setting, something more rustic, or even a stunning ballroom, there’s something for
everyone.
However, when it comes to selecting a location for your wedding ceremony and reception, the
options can sometimes be overwhelming— Lucky for you, as a professional
wedding photographer serving the Charlotte, NC and Rock Hill, SC communities, I know a thing
or two about Charlotte wedding venues and all that they have to offer. From picturesque farms with rolling hills to chic landmarks in the heart of the city to a rock quarry with a stunning waterfall and white sand beach (yes, a beach!), check out my list of ten must see wedding venues in and around Charlotte, NC.
Holiday Inn Charlotte Center City
It just doesn’t get more uptown than this. Located in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina the
Holiday Inn Charlotte Center City is perfect for wedding couples looking for a city chic wedding
experience. A boutique hotel offering stylish décor, plush amenities, flexible event spaces, and a
chic onsite restaurant, the Holiday Inn Charlotte Center City is not your typical Holiday Inn. From
intimate affairs to grand celebrations for up to 400 guests, host your wedding ceremony on the
rooftop or in one of their elegant ballrooms.
My favorite thing: everything is within walking distance for great photos around the city.
- The Tipsy Goat Estate
A peaceful retreat tucked away in nearby Rock Hill, South Carolina, The Tipsy Goat Estate is a
hidden gem just 40 minutes from Charlotte. This South Carolina wedding venue offers a
romantic and peaceful setting including beautiful Versailles-inspired gardens, a gorgeous
reception barn, and a historic main house with bridal and groom suite—all on 22 stunning acres
full of open fields and creeks. Perfect for those looking for a charming event space, wedding
couples can choose to have an outdoor ceremony with an indoor barn reception.
My favorite thing: From the beautiful landscape (including fainting goats and wandering
peacocks!) to the amazing sunsets to all the unique nooks and crannies, the photo opportunities
are endless. The staff is also amazing—the owner of the venue was so helpful and got us and
the guests around with a golf cart!
- Chickadee Hill Farms
A family owned farm, event venue, and mini horse rescue in Troutman, North Carolina,
Chickadee Hill Farms is located on 25 acres of rolling pastures, wooded areas, and wildflower
fields. From the moment you set foot on this working farm in the foothills of North Carolina,
you’re met with a sort of “country chic” vibe. Brides have the option of choosing from a variety of
wedding locations, plus six miniature horses on site make this a truly unique spot for holding a
wedding, there are plenty of photo opportunities around the farm. Also a quaint little chapel on
site for rainy day weddings.
My favorite things: while the working hay farm dates back over a century, the farm’s newest
event space is a gorgeous post and beam barn with an elegant bridal suite and grand balcony.
The outdoor silo bar and patio is a fun option for an outdoor fete. The venue was also very
accommodating for vendors and guests.
- The Bob Reid Field Trial Barn
Part of the famous Anne Springs Greenway in Fort Mill, SC, The Bob Reid Field Trial Barn is a
quaint South Carolina wedding venue that overlooks scenic rolling hills—offering a charming
and rustic setting for your wedding and reception. Perfect for couples looking for a
smaller intimate setting with a romantic country vibe, the Field Trial Barn has a laid-back, rustic
feel with its cozy fire pit, string lights, and views of pastoral landscape.
*My favorite thing: the signature red barn is a perfect backdrop for wedding photos.
- Brakefield at Riverwalk
Located right along the Catawba River and overlooking the Carolina Thread Trail in Rock Hill,
SC, a wedding at Brakefield at Riverwalk will have you and your guests surrounded by the
peaceful and picturesque views the river has to offer. And if the stunning river views weren’t
enough, when you pull up to this South Carolina wedding venue, you’re met with almost a
castle-like feel. The unique architectural design of the manor house venue invokes a feeling of
old-world European warmth and sophisticated charm with a nearly 3,000 square foot Grand Hall
with natural slate floors, beautiful baroque lighting, a bridal parlor housed inside the turret,
groom’s quarters, and a Green Room. From the Grand Hall, five sets of eight foot French doors
lead to the 1,200 square foot covered Loggia, great for more intimate gatherings and special
occasions.
My favorite thing: the photo opportunities along the Catawba River are stunning.
- Carrigan Farms
When the mountains meet the beach… A 5th generation family owned farm, Carrigan Farms in
Mooresville, NC offers wedding couples a truly unique setting—a sort of tropical oasis known as
the Quarry. A breathtaking wedding venue unlike any other in the area, granite cliffs rise 70 feet
above crystal blue water surrounding your ceremony on the white, sugar-sand beach or lush
green lawn.
My favorite things: the beautiful waterfall that spills forth as the bride and groom share their first
kiss and the colorful and festive lights of the Quarry that illuminate the cliffs at dusk.
- The Oaks Event
Nestled among 100 acres of farmland and just minutes from uptown Charlotte, The Oaks Event
is located in the beautiful town of Midland, NC. Events at The Oaks Event are relaxed affairs,
with this North Carolina wedding venue set on a picturesque lake with plenty of space for
outdoor wedding ceremonies and receptions. Ceremonies take place under a beautiful white
gazebo overlooking the lake, while receptions are held in the 4,000 square-foot fully enclosed
pavilion, which also has gorgeous views of the lake. Plus, with trails leading to and from the
guest house and reception area, your wedding day will feel enchanting
My favorite thing: everything is decorated so tastefully, including the event house, complete with
a bridal suite, 3 bedrooms, 2 sitting areas with fireplaces, and billiards room.
- The Cameilla Gardens
An elegant wedding venue in Monroe, NC, Camellia Gardens offers a picturesque garden
setting with beautifully landscaped lawns, lakes, and gardens. Couples can choose from a
number of locations throughout the estate for their ceremony and reception. The century-old
Grand Oak and the white arbor overlooking the serene lake provide a picturesque backdrop for
those looking to exchange vows outdoors, while the newly renovated barn features eye-catching
chandeliers and a covered outdoor patio area—perfect for an evening of dinner and dancing.
My favorite thing: I love the outdoor dance area under the lights.
Large sprawling property with “Charleston-esque” feel. This Works for both “country casual” events or more high end weddings. Also has a large white tent for rainy days or lakeside gazebo for wedding ceremonies. It’s also a mini Bed & Breakfast for couples who want to spend the night on the property the night before the wedding.
*Favorite thing: They offer fireworks for your reception.
Separk Mansion: Stylish, modern and elegant. Offers both inside and outside ceremony locations. The ballroom Almost has a 1920’s vibe with black and white tiled floor and limestone veranda. Even though it’s newly renovated it still retains a very historical vibe. This is another spot that will attract the more “high end” princess type brides looking for a Cinderella feel. Also has beautiful getting ready areas for both guys and gals.
Favorite thing: Grand staircase perfect for bridal photos as well as making an entrance into the reception.
Thank you for reading.
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