How to Elope at the North Carolina Arboretum: A Botanical Garden Elopement Guide

If you’re dreaming of an intimate, nature-filled elopement surrounded by flowers, trees, and mountain air, the North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville might be the perfect spot. As your favorite Asheville Elopement Photographer, planner and tour guide, I can safely say this is one of my favorite places.

Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, this 434-acre public garden is filled with peaceful trails, seasonal blooms, and beautifully designed garden spaces. It offers couples the chance to say “I do” in a natural, elegant setting, without the logistics of hiking up a mountain.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to elope at the North Carolina Arboretum, from booking your date to finding the best photo spots.

Why Elope at the North Carolina Arboretum?

The Arboretum is a gorgeous, well-kept venue that feels both wild and refined. Think: manicured gardens surrounded by forested trails, birdsong in the background, and a ceremony spot that glows with color in every season.

It’s ideal if you want:

• A beautiful outdoor ceremony without a long hike or big crowd.
• Lush botanical backdrops: blooming flowers in spring and summer, golden trees in fall.
• Ease and accessibility: close to downtown Asheville, with restrooms, parking, and event staff on-site.

For couples who love nature but also want a touch of structure and comfort, the Arboretum strikes the perfect balance. It’s also great for me as an elopement photographer in Asheville because I don’t have to lug my gear up a mountain.

Elopement Packages & What’s Included

The Arboretum offers a simple Essential Elopement Package through their Green Weddings Program. It’s designed for small, intimate ceremonies, up to about 15 guests, and typically takes place in the Heritage Garden, one of the most picturesque spots on the property.

What’s included:

• A two-hour rental window for your ceremony and photos
• Access to the Heritage Garden for vows
• Event staff assistance
• Tables, chairs, and setup support (depending on the package)

You’ll need to submit an event request through their website to reserve your date. (You can find the most current details on their official Arboretum Weddings page.)

How to Plan Your Arboretum Elopement (Step-by-Step)

1. Choose Your Date and Package

Start by selecting your preferred date and confirming which elopement package fits your guest count and budget. Weekday elopements tend to be quieter and often more affordable.

2. Pick Your Ceremony Location

Most elopements take place in the Heritage Garden, which features winding stone paths, small water features, and lush seasonal plantings. It’s intimate, romantic, and easy to access.

3. Check Photography Guidelines

If you’re hiring an elopement photographer (hi, that would be me 👋), note that the Arboretum has specific photography rules. Professional sessions used for commercial purposes, like wedding or elopement photos, may require a photography permit.
I would coordinate directly with staff to confirm details and ensure compliance with venue policies.

4. Plan the Flow of Your Day

Many couples use their two-hour window for:

• A short ceremony
• Couple portraits around the gardens
• A celebratory toast or first dance under the trees

If you’d like more portraits afterward, you can explore nearby trails or scenic overlooks within a short drive (the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance is right next door!).

5. Celebrate Your Way

After your ceremony, you could:

• Head to downtown Asheville for dinner at a cozy local restaurant
• Have a small picnic among the Arboretum’s trails
• Continue your photos along the Parkway for those dreamy mountain shots

Tips for a Beautiful Arboretum Elopement

• Lighting: Afternoon and golden hour offer the prettiest light in the Heritage Garden.
• Season: Spring offers tulips and azaleas, summer is lush and green, and fall brings fiery color across the garden (no winter weddings here, sorry folks).
• Respect the grounds: Stay on paths, don’t pick flowers, and leave no trace, it’s part of the Arboretum’s sustainability mission.
• Rain plan: The Arboretum’s event staff can help you coordinate if the weather shifts, always good to have umbrellas or a backup option.

Why I Love Photographing Elopements Here

Every time I shoot at the North Carolina Arboretum, I’m reminded how peaceful it feels. The gardens are alive but calm, a space that celebrates love and nature without distraction.

There’s something deeply symbolic about saying your vows surrounded by growing things, roots, petals, sunlight a ,reminder of the beauty that comes from nurturing something small and letting it flourish.

Ready to Plan Your Botanical Garden Elopement?

If you’re dreaming of an Asheville elopement that’s lush, romantic, and grounded in nature, the North Carolina Arboretum is a hidden gem.

As your Asheville elopement photographer, I can help you navigate the logistics, find the best light, and capture the quiet in-between moments that make your day yours.

Let’s plan your Arboretum elopement together.
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