Your Guide to Banner Elk Wedding Venues & 7 Stunning Spaces
I’ve been helping couples plan their dream weddings for years, and let me tell you – there’s something magical about tying the knot in the Blue Ridge Mountains. While Banner Elk is a popular spot, more and more lovebirds are flocking to West Jefferson for their big day. Why? Well, let me spill the beans!
West Jefferson, just a short 45-minute drive from Banner Elk, offers all the mountain charm without the crowds. It’s like finding a hidden gem in your jewelry box! The views are just as breathtaking, but you’ll feel like you have the whole place to yourself. And at the heart of it all? The Barn on New River – 90-acre venue that’ll make your heart skip a beat. Now, I know what you’re thinking. Another barn wedding venue?” But hold your horses! This isn’t just any old barn. It’s a whole vibe, and I’m about to take you on a tour that’ll have you calling your wedding planner.
The Barn On New River
Let’s start with the lay of the land. The Barn on New River isn’t just a pretty wedding venue – it’s got substance too. We’re talking 90 acres of pure mountain bliss. Imagine saying “I do” with the Blue Ridge Mountains as your backdrop and the South Fork of New River singing your love song. It’s enough to give you goosebumps!
Now, let’s break it down. The Barn on New River isn’t just one venue – it’s seven venue spaces rolled into one! It’s like getting a 7-course meal when you only ordered the main dish. Let me walk you through each space…
The Main Barn
- Picture this: The ceiling soars 30 feet high, with posts and beams that’ll make your jaw drop. Swarovski crystal chandeliers twinkle overhead, and string lights cast a warm glow. The concrete floors? They’re not just plain old gray – they’re acid-stained works of art. With 4900 square feet of space, you can dance the night away without bumping elbows.
The Summit
- Ready for a view that’ll take your breath away? Hop on for a scenic ride to the top of the property. Up here, you’re on top of the world. The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains stretch out as far as the eye can see. It’s not just a photo op – it’s a moment you’ll remember forever.
The Dahlia Suite & Lounge
- Getting ready is half the fun, right? The Dahlia Suite is bright and airy, perfect for primping and pampering. It’s right next to the ladies’ restrooms too – no long walks in your wedding dress! On the flip side, there’s The Lounge. It’s cozy and comfy, ideal for relaxing before the big moment. Both styling suites have private entrances to the barn, so you can make a grand entrance without anyone peeking!
The Old Hay Barn
- This isn’t where you’ll find horses munching on hay. Just kidding, it’s a party spot! There’s a covered patio with twinkling lights, perfect for mingling. The lawn? It’s begging for a game of cornhole. And when the sun sets, gather ’round the gas fire pit in Adirondack chairs. It’s like a fancy campfire, minus the smoky clothes.
The Dahlia Garden
- From late June to mid-October, this garden is a riot of color. Dahlias bloom in every shade, surrounded by veggies and other flowers. It’s like walking through a living rainbow! There are arbors to pose under and raised beds to admire. It’s also a great spot for small wedding ceremonies.
The Stone Patio & Wedding Ceremony Area
- Imagine sipping champagne on a stone patio, mountains in the distance, as the sun sets. As night falls, lights twinkle overhead. It’s pure magic! Right next door is where you’ll say your vows, under a rustic arbor. There’s even a peaceful pond with a fountain. It’s perfect for a rehearsal dinner or cocktail hour too.
The 90-Acre Property
- Last but not least, there’s the whole shebang – 90 acres of pure mountain beauty. You’ve got the Main Barn, the Old Hay Barn, gardens galore, a pond, and even lodging options. The Main House has a honeymoon suite (wink wink), and there’s a Cabin for your VIP guests.
Choosing Your Wedding Package
Now, let’s talk packages. The Barn on New River isn’t just about the space – it’s about the experience. Check out these options…
The South Fork Package
This is the big kahuna, folks. It’s a whole weekend of celebration!
- Friday: 9 AM to 9 PM access, with a 4-hour rehearsal dinner
- Saturday: 9 AM to 12 AM access, with a 6-hour event
- Honeymoon suite for Saturday night
- 2 nights in the Cabin (Friday and Saturday)
- Tables and chairs for 50 people for the rehearsal
- All the event venue spaces mentioned above
- Round, rectangle, and cocktail tables
- Whiskey barrels, cross-back chairs, ceremony chairs, and benches
- Caterer’s prep kitchen
- Set up and tear down of tables and chairs
- Covered outdoor cocktail area
- Stone cocktail patio with indoor/outdoor bar
- Onsite parking with an attendant
It’s like having your own private mountain resort for the weekend!
All-Inclusive Microweddings
Not into big crowds? This package is perfect for intimate celebrations:
- Ceremony for up to 39 guests
- Your choice of 2 stunning locations at the mountain venue
- DJ, Officiant, and Bartending Services
- BYOB
- Full catered dinner with appetizers and 2-tier wedding cake
- One-night stay in our boutique honeymoon suite
- Bouquet and Boutonnière
- 3 hours to get ready on-site & 3 hours for ceremony & reception
- Wedding Planning Support & Day-of Coordinator
It’s all the beauty without the stress of planning every detail!
FAQs | Your Burning Questions, Answered!
Planning at The Barn On New River
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Questions |
Answers |
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Do you have a catering kitchen and prep area? |
Yes! Yes, we do. Unlike many venues, our caterer’s kitchen and prep area have a separate entrance, so the vendors can come in and out to prepare your food and take away dishes and trash without disturbing your wedding events. |
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What’s the capacity of your reception location? |
The Main Barn can comfortably fit up to 185 guests. Plenty of room for all your college besties and second cousins! |
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Can we tour the venue? |
Yes! You can schedule an in-person tour or a virtual tour. Destination wedding events are common at our venue. |
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Do you have a preferred vendor list? |
Of course! We have many trusted partners that we can share with you. |
Hosting at Banner Elk Wedding Venues in NC
What’s the best time of year for a mountain wedding?
- Fall is gorgeous with the changing leaves, but don’t overlook spring and summer! The mountains are beautiful year-round.
How do I choose my wedding colors?
- Take inspiration from the natural surroundings. Blues, greens, and earthy tones work beautifully in a mountain setting.
Should I worry about the mountain weather?
- It can be unpredictable, so choose a venue with a backup plan, like The Barn On New River. Also inform your guests and wedding party that layers are their friend – it can be cool in the evenings even in summer.
Do you have any unique mountain wedding ideas?
- Set up a s’mores or hot chocolate bar. Perfect for fall or winter weddings!
- Local wildflowers in your bouquets and centerpieces for a touch of the great outdoors.
- Rustic signage with fun sayings like “The adventure begins” or “To the moon and back”.
- Have your baker create a cake that mimics the Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Set up cornhole, horseshoes, or giant Jenga for guests to enjoy.
- Give guests soft throw blankets to snuggle up in during the wedding reception.
- Showcase brews from nearby breweries.
- Set up telescopes for guests to stargaze during the reception.
- Have guests sign a trail map or a hiking boot rather than a traditional guest book.
- Incorporate mountain outlines in your invitations, programs, or table numbers.
Check out Pinterest for even more inspiration!
Are there any other wedding venues near Banner Elk North Carolina?
- To mention just a few, there are several event venues in and around Banner Elk, including The White Crow Wedding Venue, Chetola Resort, Grace Meadows Farm, Double J Farm, and Overlook Barn. Browse The Knot Worldwide for more options.
What should I tell my guests about the location?
- I want you and your guests to have the best wedding weekend in the NC mountains, so I’ve created this local guide to West Jefferson that you can share with them. It includes accommodations, dining options, wineries and more! Other local towns to check out include the historic Valle Crucis, Durham, Lenoir, Elizabethton, and Boone. Keep reading for my favorite honeymoon destinations nearby, too.
Are there any honeymoon destinations nearby?
Yes! North Carolina and the surrounding Southern states have a plethora of options for a mini-moon or post-wedding reception road trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway. Check out:
- Boone, NC – 22 miles Cozy mountain town with great hiking and skiing options
- Blowing Rock, NC – 32 miles Charming village with scenic mountain vistas and upscale resorts
- Grandfather Mountain, NC – 41 miles Iconic peak with a mile-high swinging bridge and wildlife habitats
- Asheville, NC – 115 miles Vibrant city known for its arts scene, craft breweries, and the Biltmore Estate
- Cherokee, NC – 145 miles Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains with casino resorts
- Gatlinburg, TN – 190 miles Mountain resort town with endless attractions and access to the Smokies
- Charlotte, NC – 193 miles Largest city in NC with urban amenities and attractions
- Raleigh, NC – 215 miles State capital with museums, gardens, and a food scene
- Myrtle Beach, SC – 280 miles Popular beach destination with golf courses and entertainment
- Charleston, SC – 335 miles Historic coastal city known for its blend of architecture, charm, and cuisine
- Washington D.C. – 340 miles Nation’s capital with world-class museums and monuments
- Savannah, GA – 390 miles Picturesque coastal city with antebellum architecture and Southern hospitality
Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, from mountain adventures to a city oasis to coastal retreats. Whether you want to stay close to or venture a bit farther from The Barn on New River, you can find something amazing for after your wedding celebrations.
What are some other common types of venue spaces in North Carolina?
- Winery Rentals
- Banquet Halls
- Countryside Wedding Venues
- Creekside Venues
- Farmhouses
- Inns
- Wedding Pavilions
- Garden Courtyards
Let’s Reach New Heights
Making wedding decisions can feel like climbing a mountain, but with The Barn on New River, you’re already at the top! This mountain venue is ideal for couples who love nature, crave stunning views, and want a wedding experience that’s as unique as their love story. So, are you ready to say “I do” with the Blue Ridge Mountains as your witness? The Barn on New River is waiting to make your wedding backdrop dreams come true. Trust me, your guests will be talking about your romance for years to come. And the best part? You’ll have a little slice of a mountain sanctuary to return to for anniversaries.
