Planning a Fall Wedding in Asheville, North Carolina

There’s something about Asheville in the fall that feels downright magical. The air turns crisp, the Blue Ridge Mountains glow with golden leaves, and the whole town slows down just a little. If you’re thinking about having a fall wedding here, let me just say—you’re onto something really special. Whether you're dreaming of a cozy mountaintop ceremony, a backyard-style gathering at a charming Airbnb, or a rustic barn celebration with all your favorite people, fall is hands-down one of the best times to get married in Western North Carolina.

Let’s dive into everything that makes fall weddings in Asheville so unforgettable, and some tips to help bring your dream day to life.

The Magic of Fall in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Asheville truly comes alive in autumn. Picture golden leaves crunching under your boots, cool mountain breezes that carry the scent of woodsmoke, and a horizon painted in every shade of red, orange, and gold. The temperatures are pretty much perfect this time of year. We’re talking 50s in the morning, 60s and 70s during the day, and sweater weather at night. It’s ideal for outdoor ceremonies, sunset portraits, and slow dances under the stars. But I might be a little biased since I'm a local.

Couples who choose Asheville for their fall wedding usually want something that feels relaxed, a little earthy, and effortlessly romantic. And honestly, that’s what this region does best.

Finding the Perfect Asheville Venue

There’s no shortage of incredible places to get married around here, but fall makes them feel even more magical. Some of my favorite types of venues for this season include:

Charming Airbnbs or Vacation Homes

A lot of couples are leaning into smaller, more intimate weddings these days, and Asheville has some incredible short-term rentals tucked away in the hills. You get a private space, jaw-dropping views, and a weekend-long celebration with the people you love most.

Historic Estates & Lodges

If you’re after something a bit more classic, there are some stunning historic homes and inns with wraparound porches, cozy fireplaces, and fall foliage galore.

Overlooks & Outdoor Spaces

For couples who really want to be surrounded by nature, there are ceremony spots along the Blue Ridge Parkway and in Pisgah National Forest that will leave you speechless. Just keep in mind that you might need a permit depending on the spot.

I'm happy to share my perferred vendors list with you if you have a specific vibe in mind and need recs. Just reach out via my contact form below and we can chat!

Fall-Inspired Details That Make It Yours

Fall weddings are full of personality and warmth. I always encourage couples to lean into the season with textures, colors, and little touches that make everything feel intentional. But most importantly, don't forget to include your personalities in all the small details. Some things to think about throughout the process:

Color Palettes

Some of the prettiest fall weddings I’ve seen use tones like burnt orange, mustard, burgundy, forest green, and warm neutrals. Add in some velvet napkins or candlelight and it’s a whole vibe. The right planner can really seal the deal on making sure all those details coexist.

Florals

Dahlias, mums, marigolds, dried grasses, eucalyptus, and even foraged bits from around the venue can add that extra autumnal touch. Ask your florist to create arrangements that feel wild and natural rather than overly structured.

Table Settings & Decor

Wooden tables, mismatched candles, amber glass, and layered textiles always look amazing this time of year. And don’t forget cozy extras like blankets for guests during your ceremony or lounge areas with vintage furniture.

Asheville-Style Catering Ideas

Asheville is big on local food and seasonal menus. Farm to Table is THE move in the Asheville/WNC area. We have some amazing little farms that produce some delicious foods and supporting local is always top priority to us locals. Fall weddings are the perfect chance to serve something warm and comforting that still feels elevated.

Some ideas I’ve seen couples love:

• Butternut squash soup shooters
• Mini grilled cheeses with tomato bisque
• Apple cider-braised short ribs or herbed roast chicken
• Sides like maple-glazed carrots, roasted root veggies, or creamy mac and cheese
• Fall wedding cakes with flavors like cinnamon, spiced apple, or pumpkin
• A hot cider bar or signature cocktails like a bourbon apple smash or maple old fashioned

Work with local caterers who use in-season ingredients and know how to bring that cozy fall feeling to life.

Make It a Whole Wedding Weekend

One of the best things about getting married in Asheville is turning it into a weekend experience for your guests. There’s so much to explore and the fall scenery makes it all feel extra special.

Here are a few ways to build out your weekend:

• Host a welcome dinner at a cider brewery or local pizza place with an outdoor patio
• Plan a group hike, leaf-peeping drive, or visit to an apple orchard the day before your wedding
• Offer a relaxed brunch the morning after your wedding with biscuits, local jams, and plenty of coffee

A little thought goes a long way toward making your guests feel taken care of—and showing off everything you love about this town.

Another way to make this special is to really utilize the Airbnb/VRBO options in and around AVL. They are amazing little places tucked in the mountains and can host up to dozens of people at once. It makes a great opportunity to share all the little moments with your closest friends and family.

Fall Engagement Session in Asheville

If you're newly engaged and needing an engagement session, Fall is almost always the top choice for our clients. The colors along the BRP are truly breathtaking and so easy to access. Timing is crucial. Mid to late October typically offers peak foliage, though elevation shifts can affect color progression. Planning your session around golden hour during this window yields luminous, painterly images. For couples seeking a session that feels both timeless and rooted in the season, fall in Asheville is an unmatched choice. It's not just about the photos-it's about the experience of slowing down, breathing in mountain air, and documenting this chapter with intention and artistry.

Photo Spots You’ll Love

The fall colors here make for the dreamiest wedding galleries. I always recommend taking some time to sneak away during golden hour for those glowy portraits that feel like something out of a storybook.

A few favorite locations:

• The Blue Ridge Parkway (almost anywhere, honestly)
• Max Patch or Craggy Gardens for mountaintop views
• The River Arts District for something more urban and artistic
• Any forest trail with golden leaves and soft light streaming through the trees

Make sure to talk to your photographer about timing and locations so you can take full advantage of that autumn light.

Planning Tips for Fall in Asheville

Here are a few practical things to keep in mind:

• Peak leaf season usually falls in mid to late October, but it shifts slightly each year. Book vendors and lodging as early as you can.
• Have a backup plan for weather, especially for outdoor ceremonies. Tents with clear sides, indoor options, or cozy porches work great.
• Layer your wardrobe. Think velvet jackets, long sleeves, and rich textures. Offer blankets or shawls for your guests too.
• Plan for guest travel and lodging early. Asheville is super popular in the fall, so hotel blocks, Airbnb reservations, and rental vans should be booked well in advance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of a fall wedding that feels cozy, meaningful, and surrounded by nature, Asheville might be the perfect spot. It’s warm in spirit, cool in temperature, and absolutely stunning this time of year. From golden mountaintops to candlelit receptions, this little mountain town sets the stage for a wedding that feels just like you.

If you’re planning something small and intimate or throwing a full celebration, fall in Asheville makes it easy to create a wedding day (or weekend) that’s full of heart.

Let's plan your Fall Asheville wedding