7 Reasons To Get Married at Overlook Barn


It's no secret around here that Overlook Barn is one of our all-time favorite wedding venues in Banner Elk, NC. Our first wedding was in 2018 and we instantly fell in love. Since then, we've shot many more weddings there and watched the venue grow and make improvements along the way. Here are the top 7 reasons to get married at Overlook barn, why we love shooting here, and why we always refer this venue to our clients!

#1 The Mountain View Ceremony Space

This one is number one on the list of reasons why brides chose this venue and it's very obvious why. The view from the ceremony spot is unmatched, honestly. If you are looking for a mountain wedding venue, this should be top of your list. I mean, look at those views! Mountains for miles and it's such a breathtaking spot to exchange vows. There is a 20-foot wooden platform that supports the couple and the bridal party during the ceremony.

Also, I just wanted to add that I have found the Mountain View to be extremely diverse with the weather. It changes due to snow, rain, sunset, etc. It's always different in so many great ways and that helps keep it fresh and unique to each client!

Bride and Groom cuddled together overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Sarah and Chris kissing with the mountains in the backdrop.

#2 Overlook Barn

The big, gorgeous Overlook Barn itself is another huge reason why my clients love this space. It's a horse barn flipped into an elegant, high-end reception space. It has 30-foot ceilings lined with string lights and skylights. It allows tons of natural light into the space which makes it great for photographers. And it's seriously huge. Not to mention, it's something out of every Pinterest bride's dream! Both rustic and upscale, it's perfect. If you are looking for a luxury barn wedding, this is the best option for you!

Reception tables lining the barn with the string lights hanging around them.
Couple sharing their first dance together under the string lights.

#3 Cliffside Barn

The Cliffside Barn is the indoor, ceremony option if you are afraid of a rainy day, a hot summer wedding, or just want to opt for a covered vow exchange. It's a smaller barn, so it only holds a certain number of guests. But it's honestly such a great, intimate option. The back wall has a large door, full of windows that let in tons of natural light. You can also open the glass door if you want to let in a breeze or have the mountains as the background without the glass panes. The skylights also let the light fall in, making it a gorgeous option for a ceremony or small reception. It has a covered porch attached to the side for guests to mingle for cocktail hour.

Couple standing underneath a chandelier during their wedding vows.

#4 Wedding Vendor Team

One of the best things about the venue, in my opinion, is their absolutely incredible preferred vendor team. Some of the best wedding vendors around Boone and Banner Elk come together and create some knockout weddings. I consider myself so lucky to be able to work with them time and time again. I've met so many of my good wedding professional friends here!

Bride and Groom holding hands as they enter their reception with a confetti toss.
Ceremony space decorated with flower petals and a gorgeous triangle arch.

#5 Venue Bridal Suite

The bridal suite is another huge perk of the venue. Just recently remodeled, it's a perfect spot for you, your girls, and your family to hang out and get ready before the ceremony begins. There are barstools with vanity mirrors for hair and makeup. There are two private bathrooms, two sitting areas, and a full-length mirror to admire yourself in your dress one last time before you walk the aisle or head out for your First Look. There is also a door that leads right out to the meadow so you can stay hidden from guests until the ceremony is ready to begin.

Mother and Sister zipping up the Bride's wedding dress, their reflections in the mirrors.
Bryanna putting on the final touches of her lip gloss before she slips into her wedding dress.
Mary-Kate admiring herself in the wedding dress while holding her bouquet for the first time.

#6 Dance Floor

Since our last visit, the venue had added a major extension to the back of the barn that can be added to any package. Before, guests danced right in the area located underneath the second floor. Now, they have an open, spacious area to dance the night away. It also doubles as a gorgeous photo spot for bridals or couples portraits. Its head-to-toe windows give it an atrium feel and allow tons of natural light to flow right in. We love it so much! It also has a gorgeous rock fireplace and it's a perfect spot for a cozy winter wedding ceremony.

A bridal photo of Bryanna looking back over her shoulder towards the camera.
A fun dance photo of a guest raising the flower girl into the air as she throws her hands up.

#7 Mary's Meadow

Mary's Meadow is located right by the barn and it is a great spot for couples portraits, family photos and pictures of the bridal party. It's also the best spot on the grounds to catch the sunset during the reception. I always pull my couples outside while the guests are busy eating or dancing so that they are never missed! The sun sets right behind the meadow and it's truly breathtaking. We just love it here!

Couple walking together in the light of the sunset on their wedding day.
Bride and Groom holding hands as the Bride spins her wedding dress around.

Although I only listed 7 reasons to get married at Overlook Barn, there are so many other reasons. If you are considering them, don't hesitate to call and schedule a tour so you can see why we sing its praises for yourself.

Ready to book your Overlook Barn wedding?

To visit Overlook Barn for a tour, visit their website here.