A city that blends the chic aesthetic of modern-day with the old-world elegance of the past, Charlotte, North Carolinais a treasured, cultural part of the South that’s made up of historic landmarks,country clubs, NASCAR fun, dazzling displays of nature, and a downtown area (known asUptown) that’s surprisingly futuristic. This eclectic city also provides a variety ofwedding venuesfor couples hoping for a fashionable twist on tradition to those hoping for a simple and classic ambiance. Additionally, many of the venues sprinkled in and around this legendary city are offered at shockingly affordable rates. So if you’re looking for a memorable space for your sacred celebration—that won’t drain your financial reserves—here are 5wedding venues in Charlotte, North Carolina to keep on your radar as youplan your wedding.
1. Mint Museum Uptown
This 5-story, 145,000-square-foot wedding venue in Charlotte, North Carolina is a mesmerizing architectural feat that features sparkling city views and culturally-significant collections of American, Modern & Contemporary, and European art. Unsurprisingly, Mint Museum Uptown offers numerous spaces that can accommodate everything from an intimate celebration to a huge bash. Large wedding receptions are often enjoyed in the Robert Haywood Morrison Atrium, dazzling guests with a 60-foot by 60-foot glass wall, stained hardwood doors, a wood slat ceiling, a 4-story textile by artist Sheila Hicks, and a large canvas by Sam Francis.
The Sally and Bill Van Allen Terrace and Carroll Entryway is ideal for smaller receptions and provides a covered outdoor area with views of the cityscape, an interactive grand staircase, and the famous Royal Blue Mint Chandelier by glass artist Dale Chihuly. Another popular event space is the 7,500-square-foot Level Five that offers high ceilings and an urban-chic vibe. As for food and drink, the Mint provides bar services and can also recommend caterers.
Typical Cost: $1,500 to $5,000
Capacity: 225
Bonus: The Events Director is amazingly hands-on and helps ensure that planning and the big day go smoothly.
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2. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
A short drive from Charlotte, you’ll find a lush sanctuary of manicured gardens, tranquil fountains, nature trails, and a conservatory for tropical plants and orchids. This whimsical environment makes Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden a popular venue for couples wanting an outdoor wedding. Favorite al fresco event spaces include the White Garden which is encircled by a hedge covered in white blooms and silvery foliage, the Canal Garden that’s bordered on 2 sides by water features, all bright with the foliage of seasonal gardens, and the Four Seasons Lawn that can accommodate large parties under an endless expanse of stars.
Other spaces for a romantic wedding at this Charlotte wedding venue include the Great Hall with its dance floor and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and the 8,000-square-foot Orchid Conservatory housed within a 5-story glasshouse and adorned with a waterfall and a vibrant canvas of plants that make you feel like you’ve been transported to the tropics.
Typical Cost: Fees start at $1,550
Capacity: 400
Bonus: Couples who utilize the garden for their wedding receive a complimentary 1-year membership.
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3. Hilton Charlotte University Place
A venue well-versed in the fine art of hosting unforgettable ceremonies and receptions, Hilton Charlotte University Place provides wedding planners who can help couples craft their ideal vision for their special day. The versatile, modern event spaces include numerous ballrooms and banquet halls, many of which look out onto the water and have a grand air with high ceilings and stylish chandeliers. Additionally, the hotel offers a brick terrace and a waterside pergola for a charming outdoor ceremony.
The Hilton’s numerous wedding packages facilitate a range of needs including toasts of champagne and sparkling cider, tables, chairs and linens, customized menus, an exclusive Maitre’ d, complimentary centerpieces, 3 hours of premium open bar, and a custom-designed wedding cake.
Typical Cost: Starts at $2,500
Capacity: 750
Bonus: The food. In fact, the chefs offer everything from seated meals to buffets and are always sure to craft high-quality crowd-pleasers.
Find Hilton Charlotte University Place on Facebook and Twitter.
4. Alexander Homestead
This bucolic gem, located about 7.5 miles outside of Charlotte, is the wedding venue for couples wanting vintage- or rustic-romantic nuptials adorned by twinkle lights, fresh air, and the soothing sounds of nature. An all-inclusive experience, Alexander Homestead offers floral arrangements, cakes, and almost every other detail you’ll need for your wedding. Realizing every couple is unique, this venue works with you to craft a customized wedding package that suits your budget and preferences.
Most wedding ceremonies take place under the Garden Gazebo which is framed by 200-year-old oak trees, and receptions are commonly enjoyed in the reconstructed Dairy Barn. All food is provided by Alexander Homestead’s exclusive caterer and acclaimed by past clients. While liquor is not permitted at this event venue, couples can bring in their own beer and wine which is served by the venue’s bartending staff.
Typical Cost: $3,200 to $6,500
Capacity: 225
Bonus: This Charlotte venue provides you with an Event Manager, Wedding Coordinator, and a creative team of wedding experts.
Find Alexander Homestead on Facebook and Instagram.
5. The Ballantyne Hotel
If elegance and luxury at an affordable rate is your dream, The Ballantyne Hotel should be your next stop. This wedding venue in Charlotte, North Carolina emanates grandeur, wowing guests with an enchanting ceremony on its landscaped South Lawn, Rose Garden, or Terrace and a lavish reception in The Ballantyne Ballroom or the impressive Atrium. The wedding coordinators are also incredibly attentive and work with you from day one, helping you select your ideal event space, décor, menu, and more, and are present when you say “I do” to ensure everything goes as planned.
As you wander the grounds with your wedding photographer, you’ll be pleased to discover a platter of stunning backdrops such as a grand staircase, fountains, tree-lined paths, and sprawling lawns. After taking in the extraordinary backdrops, you’ll have the pleasure of savoring cuisine created by the expert chefs for your rehearsal dinner and wedding. As for popular menu options? Think Beef Carpaccio, Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Braised Short Ribs, Roasted Portobello Ravioli, and a seemingly never-ending list of other dishes for your special event.
Typical Cost: Rental fee is $500 to $3,500, and packages start at $150 per person
Capacity: 350
Bonus: This is the perfect venue for couples and guests who want to enjoy some fun and pampering at the hotel’s spa and golf course between wedding day festivities.
Bailey Gaddis
Bailey Gaddis is a travel writer at IntrepidTravelTribe.com and author of Feng Shui Mommy: Creating Balance and Harmony for Blissful Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Motherhood. She is also a regular contributor to media outlets including Huffington Post, Flight Network, TRVL, Disney’s Babble, Working Mother, Pregnancy & Newborn, Cosmopolitan, Redbook, Woman’s Day, and others. She lives in Ojai, California with her husband and son. You can find Bailey on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube!
