Engagement season almost upon us and more and more brides are looking for a beautiful rustic elegant venue. When it comes to the beautiful southern wedding you’ve always dreamed of starts with the perfect wedding venue. Over the last year, I’ve had the pleasure of seeing some of the most beautiful lands near Raleigh, NC.
When you google “barn weddings Raleigh”, “Southern wedding venues”, the typical venues pop up however I’m here to share a few you may not see on google that is gorgeous and maybe the perfect location for your next Southern Wedding.
WARREN ESTATE
Photo Credit: Chad Winstead Photography
A little over an hour from downtown Raleigh is a location that’s truly a gem. The venue just opened in 2018 and they are currently looking for 2019 & 2020. Warren Estate is a 105 working farm that is an all outside venue. It’s fantastic for a wedding under the starts. They have a pre-setup ceremony space on one side the old tobacco barn while the reception area perfect for a tent (if you want one) is on the other side. They have a beautiful barn bar that has a large chalkboard for showcasing featured drinks and more. The Farm has a beautiful 1920’s Farmhouse (still in restoration process) but is ready to go on the 1st level with a beautiful bridal suite perfect for the girls to get ready. They even renovated a grooms suite that includes a wet bar and some old time favorite records.
Warren Estates is defiantly a new wedding venue that needs to be on every bride’s list to see.
WALNUT HILL
Photo Credit: Walnut Hill website
A few weeks ago, we receive a personal invitation to check out this new wedding venue. When I googled it, because I stalk places before I go, I realized I was taken to a different location. Thank goodness for the Knot, I found them. And I’m so glad I did. It looks so beautiful I knew I had to check them out. My friend Bethany (Grand Marque coordinator) and made sure we didn’t miss their launch.
Walnut Hill is a stunning venue. They have a beautiful farmhouse (can be added to your package to stay in) that has several rooms, a large kitchen and a separate entrance for the groom. It’s perfect to get! As we wonder the grounds, I saw some great spots for an elegant ceremony and lots of space for cocktail hour. As you walk up to the main barn, you greeted by natural beauty. Depending on the weather, you can open the side of the barn to have a beautiful open space for dinner. They re-purposed an old grand piano into the perfect bar. As you dance the night away, the inside balcony is a fantastic spot to capture all your guests having a blast.
If you’re looking to stay in the Raleigh area for your wedding, Walnut Hill needs to be on your list as a must see.
OAKLAND FARMS
Photo credit: Oakland Farms website
As I was scouting a location for a December bride earlier this I came across a hidden gem. Seriously! Oakland Farms is absolutely breathtaking. They designed this property perfectly to host a wedding and special occasions. Having options for Plan A and B for your wedding ceremony, a large farmhouse to get ready in and a barn that accommodates up to 400 guests, is a must-see.
As we walked the property throughout, my bride was overjoyed to see the beautiful horses interact with her and the endless photo opportunities. As she walked into the barn, she was stopped in her tracks over the stunning antler chandelier and the full-length stone fireplace. They have plenty of space for a fun party and lots of food. It’s a must-see venue for any special occasion, especially your wedding day.
MORRIS PEACELAND FARM
Photo Credit: Morris Peaceland Farms website
Lastly on our list is Morris Peaceland Farms. Positioned in the heart of Raleigh, North Carolina, Morris Peaceland Farms has a beautiful dock to say your vows while a stunning water feature lies behind you. The open Pavilion draped with sheers and a bar featured in the stalls is perfect for a beautiful elegant wedding day. The best part, all the amazing photo opportunities including the horses that love to say hello.
If you’re newly engaged and looking for a beautiful southern wedding, I highly recommend adding these places on your list.
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