There’s something unforgettable about Pretty Place Chapel. Maybe it’s the sweeping view over the Blue Ridge Mountains, or the way the sunlight spills over the stone cross at sunrise. Couples from all over the Carolinas (and beyond) come here to say their vows because it feels raw, real, and absolutely breathtaking.
I’ve photographed countless weddings at Pretty Place over the years—and every single one feels unique. If you’re thinking of making this your wedding backdrop, here’s what you should know to plan it right.
Let’s tackle the first question every couple has—what’s it cost?
Technically, Pretty Place Chapel is part of the YMCA Camp Greenville and doesn’t charge a traditional rental fee for ceremonies. Instead, they suggest a donation, which typically ranges from $600–$2,000 depending on:
The day of the week
The time of day (sunrise slots are highly coveted!)
Whether it’s peak season
Keep in mind:
Reservations fill up quickly—sometimes more than a year out.
Most of my couples who marry at Pretty Place spend anywhere from $1,500–$4,000 total when you add in officiants, basic décor, and photography.
Mild temps
Blooming mountain laurel
Less chance of haze over the mountains
Still chilly at sunrise, so bring wraps or jackets
Lush greenery
More haze or morning fog
Hotter midday
Popular for sunrise weddings
Peak foliage around mid-October
Crisp, cool air
The busiest season for Pretty Place
Dramatic mountain views
Fewer crowds
Risk of icy roads or snow
Pretty Place Chapel is an incredible spot to tie the knot—but it comes with a few logistics worth knowing so your day goes smoothly.
Location and Travel
The chapel sits high in the mountains, about an hour and a half from Asheville, NC, and roughly an hour from Greenville, SC. The roads leading up are winding and can be tricky, especially for guests unfamiliar with mountain driving. If you’re hosting a larger group, consider arranging transportation or at least sharing detailed driving directions ahead of time so everyone arrives safely and on schedule.
Cell Service and Communication
Cell service can be spotty around Pretty Place. It’s smart to coordinate with your vendors and guests before the big day and have a plan for staying in touch once you’re up on the mountain. A printed timeline or written instructions can go a long way if signals drop out.
Booking and Availability
Pretty Place Chapel books up quickly—especially during peak seasons like spring and fall. I always suggest couples reserve their date as early as possible. You can make reservations directly through YMCA Camp Greenville’s website. The chapel is open year-round for ceremonies, but keep in mind that winter weather can sometimes close the mountain roads.
Rental fees vary based on the day of the week and the time of year, and you can often extend your booking if you’d like extra time. One important detail: Pretty Place Chapel doesn’t have space for a reception, so you’ll need to plan an alternate location for your post-ceremony celebration.
Décor and Venue Setup
Part of Pretty Place’s magic is that it really doesn’t need much décor. The mountain view does the heavy lifting. Many couples choose simple florals, a small rug at the altar, or minimal personal touches. It keeps the focus where it belongs—on the view and the ceremony.
Photography Considerations
Photography at Pretty Place is all about timing and light. The best moments often happen at sunrise or sunset when the soft, natural light spills over the mountains and bathes the stone cross in a beautiful glow. Midday sun can create harsh contrasts between the shaded chapel interior and the bright mountain backdrop.
Because of the open-air design and lighting challenges, it helps to work with a photographer who knows how to handle the space. I’ve photographed numerous weddings at Pretty Place and know where to stand, how to manage the shifting light, and how to capture the view without losing the emotion of the ceremony.
Every wedding I shoot here is different, but my goal is always the same—to tell your story in a way that feels genuine and true to you while highlighting the stunning scenery around you. If you’re planning your Pretty Place wedding, I’d love to chat about how we can capture it all.
→ Contact me today to learn more about Pretty Place wedding photography near Greenville, SC.
“Michael is someone you want to hang out with all day. He just has this easy-going way about him that makes you relax, which was key for my husband who HATES pictures.”
“Once I saw his stunning images online, I knew I had to hire Michael for my wedding—we booked him before we even booked the venue! We wanted to be able to relax and have fun during the process, and the results definitely show that. We got so many amazing pictures that really captured the day. Don’t hesitate, just hire Michael if you truly care about having gorgeous pictures!”
—Lauren S.
With me as your Pretty Place wedding photographer,
You Can Expect
I understand that being followed around all day with a camera sounds intimidating, but with true documentary-style photos, you won’t even know I’m there.
I’ll explore your celebration, snap photos as moments naturally unfold, and only provide guidance and direction as needed. The result? You’ll be able to fully enjoy your day and have fun, without the added stress or worry of saying cheese.
