When someone mentioned “eloping” 30 years ago, it typically implied a secret or extremely private marriage. While this still holds true for some elopements, the meaning has evolved. Modern elopements are less about “running away” and often include close family and friends, without the secrecy.
In a way, the modern interpretation of an elopement seems to have come full circle, resembling more of what a traditional wedding used to be: less planned, with a smaller guest list, and focused on an intimate experience for the couple and their guests, rather than a large, budget-intensive event with hundreds of attendees. This isn’t to say that modern weddings are wrong or that one is inherently better than the other; it’s simply a matter of what suits each couple.
For some, a large wedding and celebration are perfect, while for others, an elopement is exactly what they want or need. For couples seeking an elopement, I believe Western North Carolina is an ideal location, with Asheville serving as the perfect gateway.
Why Asheville?
When envisioning a small, intimate wedding that is deeply personal, rooted in tradition, and less focused on material possessions, I immediately think of natural beauty or a rustic setting. Fortunately, Western North Carolina offers an incredible abundance of both.
The natural beauty in Western North Carolina is truly remarkable, with much of it remaining untouched. For example, about 61% of the state is forested, with the majority of this land located in Western North Carolina. Additionally, 11% of the state is protected land, and again, the majority of this is found in Western North Carolina. The Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, exclusively located in Western North Carolina, encompass over a million acres of protected forest.
Beyond these forests, there are other significant protected areas such as the North Carolina portion of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, several state parks, game lands, and private/conservatory protected lands. When you combine this with the fact that most counties in Western North Carolina are among the most rural in the state, it becomes clear that if you’re looking for a private event in a rustic or natural setting, Western North Carolina and particularly Asheville is definitely worth considering.
When considering Western North Carolina, many people think only of farms and forests, but our towns and cities offer all the comforts you’d expect. Asheville, our anchor city, has everything a large city offers, including numerous wedding venues perfect for a WNC elopement. Many venues even provide mid-week elopement packages or discounts, allowing you to enjoy the space without the typical Saturday wedding price tag. We also have charming small towns like Hendersonville, Tryon, Brevard, and Highlands, which offer a classy blend of city and country.
Not every destination needs to be a traditional venue. Sometimes, being surrounded by nature’s raw beauty is ideal. For small events, you can legally get married on the Blue Ridge Parkway with a permit. Additionally, companies like “Hitched – Traveling Chapel” can transform any location into your dream wedding venue.
Don’t Forget About Transportation!
A small elopement in the countryside can be a truly stunning experience, and we can help ensure everyone arrives safely and comfortably. Many of these beautiful, remote locations often have limited parking, so imagine the convenience of having everyone travel together in just one or two vehicles. Not only would everyone enjoy the journey together, but no one would have to worry about driving or finding parking. It’s the perfect way to create a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
Van in Black offers a variety of vehicle types, sizes, and styles, including some with all-wheel drive, capable of reaching even the more remote areas of Western North Carolina. Our vehicles are spacious and can easily accommodate a full load of passengers, along with any props or goodies you need for your elopement. Our experienced drivers are knowledgeable about the mountain roads and popular wedding destinations.
Van in Black is fully insured and properly licensed as a “for hire” transportation service provider in North Carolina and beyond. Whatever your transportation needs, Van in Black can accommodate them.
More Than Elopements!
We also provide transportation services for large weddings! Our fleet of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans can transport over 150 people at once if needed.
We operate at all major venues in the Asheville region, ensuring that transportation for your wedding day, big or small, is one less thing for you to worry about.
