The Ridge - Asheville wedding photography by Michael Freas

bride and groom pose for wedding photos at sunset at the ridge asheville wedding venue

Asheville, NC can be a destination for so many reasons.  There is an abundance of things to do, nature surrounds you every where you turn, so its fitting that its a major destination for weddings. Especially if you want breathtaking views of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and Pisgah National forest.  The Ridge Asheville has 270 degrees of those views, and its one of my favorite wedding venues in Western North Carolina.

When I think about weddings that excite me, it’s a venue that has the best of both worlds.  An outdoor space that gives you an abundance of options for photography, and there is a Plan B and C option. It is the ideal indoor and outdoor wedding venue.

The Ridge Weddings in Asheville, NC

Location, Location, Location

Located in Marshall, NC, the Ridge is just 20 miles north of downtown Asheville. Designed by a European architect who wanted something timeless. It has that comfy feel of a beautiful Chateau.  One that you might see at a vineyard in Italy or France. We aren’t talking the usual barn style outdoor venues that seem to pop up everywhere here in NC. We are talking about an Asheville wedding that your friends and family will remember.

A wedding venue for up to 250 wedding guests

Views are at The Ridge are the centerpiece detail for any wedding at The Ridge Asheville NC.  Talk with your photographer before the wedding, and he can help you design the layout so that the sun is at the best angle.  The Ridge wedding venue in Asheville has an outdoor ceremony location called The Knoll.  Its the highest spot on the property and has the most commanding view you can ask for.  Guaranteed to get those amazing mountain backdrop first kiss photos for a wedding at The Ridge.

For the reception, we head over to The Chateau.  This is The Ridge Asheville’s indoor wedding facility and dance floor. The indoor space comes with an indoor/outdoor bar, and a patio.  You can use The Chateau for your ceremony and reception, reception only, or your rehearsal dinner. It seats up to 175 people for dinner and 250 for a cocktail party.

The design was thoughtful of the lighting and views for anyone having their wedding at The Ridge. There are large windows that face southwest, which gives you a softer exposure of the view the ridge offers of the mountains while you enjoy cocktail hour and dinner.

The Chateau also comes with two bridal rooms, which are available for rent. I do recommend for getting ready, you rent out the Residence, which is the first house you’ll see as you enter the property. It is open to the couple, their wedding party, and family at an additional price, and is massively helpful for getting family photos done prior to the wedding.  Its a great spot for a first look, first touch, or to not be seen at all before the wedding.

Couples and Sunset Photos

Outside of Asheville NC is a small mountain town called Marshall. One of the reasons its called The Ridge, is because of where it sits.  At The Ridge Asheville wedding venue the views are award winning.  Using my approach to how I run a couples session during wedding day, you are able to enjoy a sunset view and be alone and comfortable.  There are locations on the property that give you some of the best elements to work with, creating wedding photos for the couple that are unique!

One of the things that stands out to me as a wedding photographer about The Ridge, is how they have set up their venue package.  Their Ceremony and Reception package offers you both the Knoll (outdoor wedding ceremony) and the Chateau, which means you’ll also get indoor décor and bar and beverage services. Not to mention, Event staffing and guest transportation included as well. So there’s no worry about your guests having to walk from one location to the next, because their fantastic staff will take care of it all!  They also will help you out with guest transportation from Asheville to Marshall, which helps eliminate the drinking and driving aspect too!

What is covered in the cost of The Ridge Asheville wedding venue?

Every wedding day is unique in its own way, so working with the staff at The Ridge  Asheville is another positive. As the wedding photographer I see a lot. I know that they are always on top of things, and I can be the wedding photographer. You dont need to worry, their mission is for you to be relaxed. They will tailor everything to your need, and really do set the bar for service. Some of the services that come inclusive with the collections at The Ridge Asheville:

  • Use of venue and facilities
  • Basic Décor for your event
  • Open Bar with beer, wine, champagne, and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Tables, Chair, Linen rentals on site.  They also have everything you need for the reception
  • Transportation shuttle for your guests to and from The Ridge
  • Event Staffing and services that include setting up, tearing down, and bartending.  They have in house catering too.  The vendor meals they give me are always a plus!

The Ridge at Asheville is a phenomenal wedding venue. Its been on my radar as top venues in the Asheville, NC area.  Its a place I am comforatable at, and really enjoy the couples time.  There is a lot to work with, and it has the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Id love to be your wedding photographer!

If you are looking for more information about photography for your The Ridge Asheville wedding, simply fill out this small request form and I will respond within 24 hours!

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