How to Get Married in Asheville, NC
A Step-by-Step Guide for Couples Planning Their North Carolina Wedding
If you’re wondering how to get married in Asheville, NC, and still aren’t sure how to even start the process, I totally get it-and I’m here to help. As a wedding photographer based in Asheville, I can’t tell you how many times a client phone call begins with some version of: “We’re just not sure what to do next, or first.”
Couples often begin the planning process by booking a venue or hiring a photographer (hi!), and then they find themselves staring at a to-do list they’re not really sure how to complete. Things like getting a marriage license or choosing an officiant suddenly become big question marks. So, I’ve put together this guide to walk you through exactly how to get married in Asheville-from legal requirements to your ceremony options-so you can feel confident, prepared, and most importantly, excited for your wedding day.
Getting Started: It’s Simpler Than You Think
The good news? The process of getting married in Asheville is honestly so much simpler than it might seem. I know this firsthand-I went through it myself when I got married in 2019. My husband and I actually eloped at the courthouse the day before our big wedding. And even as someone working in the wedding industry, I still had a moment of “Wait, what do I actually need to do to make this official?”
And that’s totally normal! While the wedding day itself can be full of emotion, celebration, and (yes) maybe a little chaos, the legal steps really don’t have to be all that complicated. A little preparation ahead of time goes a long way in helping you stay focused on what really matters-being present with each other and your closest family and friends (if you so choose).
Step 1: Get Your North Carolina Marriage License
Before anything else, you’ll need a marriage license to legally wed in the state of North Carolina. Fortunately, the process is pretty easy.
Where to Go
You can visit any Register of Deeds office in North Carolina, not just the one in the county where you’re getting married. That means if you’re having your wedding in Asheville (which is in Buncombe County), but you live in Charlotte or Raleigh, you can get your license closer to home and still use it here. Super convenient, right?
Asheville’s Register of Deeds Office:
35 Woodfin Street, Asheville, NC 28801
Website for appointments and forms
What You’ll Need:
A government-issued photo ID – like a driver’s license or passport
$60 license fee – payable by cash, debit, or credit
Both parties present – you and your partner must appear together
Once you get your license, it’s good for 60 days only. That means you must have your ceremony and return the signed license within that 60-day window, or it expires and becomes invalid.
My advice? Don’t wait until the last minute. If you’re planning a weekend wedding, aim to get your license at least a week ahead so you’re not scrambling. And after your ceremony, hand-deliver or mail the completed form back to the office ASAP so your marriage is officially recorded. Also, don’t forget it. I know that seems silly, but it happens ALL the time with our clients.
Step 2: Choose Who Will Officiate Your Wedding
This part can be a little tricky in North Carolina, so let’s break it down.
Who Can Marry You in NC?
You have two legal options for your officiant:
- A magistrate (civil ceremony) – at the courthouse or another approved location
- An ordained minister (religious ceremony) – must be ordained by a recognized denomination or church
Here’s where some couples run into issues. In many states, a friend or family member can easily become ordained online (through Universal Life Church, for example) and legally officiate a wedding. But in North Carolina, online ordinations are not recognized unless that person is affiliated with an actual church or religious institution. This is why my husband and I eloped at the courthouse the day before our wedding, so that our family member could officiate our ceremony without all the legal mumbo-jumbo.
It gave us peace of mind knowing it was all done legally-and we didn’t have to stress about paperwork on the big day.
Step 3: Consider a Courthouse Wedding Ceremony
If you’re planning a smaller elopement or just want a simple, no-frills wedding day, you should absolutely consider a courthouse wedding in Asheville. I’ve photographed so many of these ceremonies, and I’ve got to say—they are some of the most heartfelt and personal weddings I’ve ever witnessed.
What to Expect at the Buncombe County Courthouse
Address:
60 Court Plaza, Asheville, NC 28801
Phone: (828) 259-3400
You’ll head to the magistrate’s office inside the courthouse. The ceremony is short-usually under five minutes. You’ll say a few vows (no pressure to memorize anything), exchange rings if you’d like (totally optional), and sign your documents.
You’ll need two witnesses, but if you don’t have guests with you, your photographer or videographer can sign-we’ve done it many times, and it’s always an honor!
Pro Tip:
The Buncombe County magistrate is a gem. He’s warm, accommodating, and super respectful of your ceremony. He even lets photographers move around during the vows for the best possible photos-something not all courthouses allow.
Step 4: After the Ceremony
Once the paperwork is signed and submitted, your marriage is legal! But if you’re doing a courthouse elopement and want to keep celebrating, there are so many amazing things to do in downtown Asheville.
Post-Ceremony Ideas:
- Grab brunch or cocktails at Rhubarb or Cúrate
- Take some newlywed portraits around Pack Square or the rooftop of the courthouse parking deck
- Book a cozy dinner at The Market Place or Chestnut
- Or head into the mountains for a Blue Ridge Parkway picnic
That’s the beauty of an Asheville wedding-you’re surrounded by natural beauty, amazing food, and an artsy downtown vibe that’s hard to beat. Your options are truly endless.
FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Questions
Do I have to live in North Carolina to get married here?
Nope! Anyone can get married in NC, regardless of residency.
How long does it take to get the marriage license?
It’s issued the same day—just bring all your documents and payment with you.
Can we do a destination elopement in Asheville?
Absolutely. Asheville is perfect for destination elopements. Whether you’re courthouse-bound or planning a private Airbnb ceremony, this city has everything you need.
Can we have a friend officiate if they’re ordained online?
Only if that friend is affiliated with a recognized church or denomination. If not, stick with a magistrate or ordained minister who meets the legal requirements in North Carolina.
Final Thoughts
Getting married in Asheville, NC doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing. Whether you’re planning a full wedding weekend or a quiet courthouse ceremony with just the two of you, Asheville is full of charm, beauty, and love. With a few simple steps-like getting your license, finding a legal officiant, and deciding how you want to celebrate-you’ll be all set.
And if you’re still not sure where to begin, don’t worry. That’s exactly why I’m here. I’ve helped countless couples navigate this exact process, and I’d be honored to be part of yours.
So… ready to get married in Asheville?
Reach out, say hi, and let’s start planning something beautiful. ✨
