How to Elope in North Carolina
The complete North Carolina Elopement Guide
Dreaming of a memorable elopement in North Carolina?
Hell Yeah!
North Carolina is a truly beautiful state, with the Appalachian mountains in the west and the coastal plains in the east!
As elopement experts, we have done a ton of research on eloping all over the world, and created in-depth guides for adventurous couples just like you!
How to obtain a marriage license in North Carolina:
Requirements to Apply for a Marriage License in North Carolina:
- A valid driver's license, non-driver state identification, or passport with visa attachment
- You do not have to be a resident of North Carolina to get married there
- There is no blood test required in North Carolina
- There is no waiting period in North Carolina
Pick up a North Carolina Marriage License.
A Marriage License can be obtained from the Register of Deeds office in any county, as long as you and your partner are both present and meet the requirements. You will have 60 days after the License is issues to have the License signed and returned. Be sure to check the specific county's requirements and fees for obtaining a marriage license. Some office's require an appointment.
Return your Signed Marriage License.
You or your officiant will need to return the signed Marriage License to the Register of Deeds office once the officiant and your two witnesses have signed the License. Once the License is signed, it must be returned within 10 days.
You're Legally Married in North Carolina!
Once your signed Marriage License is returned to the Register of Deeds office, you're all set!
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Your North carolina Elopement Photographer
who is ready for a badass adventure
If you know you want your wedding day to be filled with laughter, adventure, and love- eloping is going to be the best decision you ever make!
If you want a team of elopement experts who fully understand and support your wildest dreams of having an epic wedding day, we are here to help with the entire experience!
We not only love elopements to our core, but we also know how to plan a badass wedding day in surreal destinations!
You know you deserve a wedding day that is intentional and memorable, so you're ready for the next step!
For choosing your North Carolina Elopement Location
A reminder
While I try to keep information about elopement locations updated as frequently as possible, things are always changing!
It's important to always do research and contact the national/ state parks well in advance, to ensure there are no new guidelines, requirements, or restrictions!
When I help you plan your epic elopement experience, I will always provide the most recent information regarding permits and guidelines for locations!
Be sure to leave no trace when visiting beautiful outdoor locations- it is crucial for the health and longevity of the environment.
The Best Places to Elope in North Carolina:
Want in on our
secrets?
While we 100% believe in transparency, as elopement experts we have dedicated a lot of time searching far and wide for hidden gem locations that are less crowded, and more surreal!
While we recommend general areas, gorgeous state and national parks, and other popular locations- we have a personal database of thousands of locations across the United States! When you book your elopement experience with us, we will help you find locations that perfectly suit your unique elopement.
Ready to start planning your epic elopement?
The best time of year to elope in North Carolina:
If you want a romantic spring elopement, the mountains of North Carolina come back to life and will truly exceed your expectations! While the spring season is more rainy, the trails are open and less crowded!
The warm summer months of North Carolina are an awesome time to enjoy the beautiful locations that North Carolina has! You can enjoy a beautiful coastal elopement during these months, but be prepared for crowds!
The south east is surreal during the fall, so if you're wanting to have a vibrant fall elopement, the mountains of North Carolina will not disappoint! One thing to consider, is that the Blue Ridge Parkway does not give wedding permits in October because of high tourism, so consider the last week of September for an epic fall elopement!
Year Round
If you don't mind the cold and want less crowds, winter in the mountains of North Carolina is perfect! Some high elevation roads may be closed, so having backup locations is strongly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
about Eloping in North Carolina
"Do I need permits to elope in North Carolina?"
Q:
A:
Some locations, such as national parks and state parks, typically require a special use permit or a wedding ceremony permit when you are having a ceremony within the park. If you are just enjoying the park and having photos done, you may not need a permit for your elopement, but a photo/ film permit may be necessary for your photographer or videographer.
Be sure to check each location's regulations and requirements to ensure your elopement day goes as smooth as possible!
If you book your elopement experience with me, I will help you with all of the logistics and legalities of your elopement day!
"Can we have our friends and family present for our elopement?"
Q:
A:
Of course! Typically, intimate weddings and elopements have less than 30 guests! Lots of couples dream of having an epic elopement, but would like to have their beloved family and friends join them for part of the day!
If you dream of celebrating with more of your friends and family, you can plan a post-elopement party! Click here to learn more about how to plan a post-elopement party!
Your elopement can be:
- Just the two of you!
- The two of you + an officiant & witnesses
- Up to 30 of your closest friends & family!
"If I am coming to North Carolina to elope from another state, will I need to file a marriage license in North Carolina?"
Q:
A:
I always recommend filing for your marriage license in the state/ county in which you are eloping in! However, if you have already went to the courthouse and filed your marriage license in your home state, or want to deal with the paperwork later on down the road, you will have a "commitment ceremony," which isn't legally binding.
Choosing to file your marriage license before or after you elope is completely fine, what really matters is when you and your partner commit your lives to each other! Just keep in mind that you are not legally recognized as married until a marriage certificate is obtained.
North Carolina Elopement Packages
For the wild lovers
Packages Starting At $3,400 | Couples Typically Invest $5,400 + Heirlooms
- Coverage from 4 Hours to Multiple Days
- Personalized and Detailed Planning
- Tax + Travel to All U.S. States
- Private Online Gallery + Custom USB with Edited High-Resolution Digital Gallery
- Sneak Peeks within 48 Hours
- Full Gallery Delivery within 6 Weeks
- Highlight Video with Audio Coverage so you can Watch and Listen to your Epic Day!
- Ease of achieving the most memorable and authentic elopement experience!
I'm so excited to learn more about your dreams for your big day, and look forward to connecting soon!
I will get back with you within 24 hours to talk more about your awaiting adventure!
(I only photograph weddings with under 30 guests)
Is your date flexible?
It's okay if you haven't gotten any ideas yet, I'm here to help!
ADVENTURE
Awaits!
