Your Downtown Asheville Courthouse Elopement can be so SIMPLE. Eloping at the Buncombe County courthouse is a straightforward and efficient process, perfect for couples looking for a simple and intimate ceremony! As an Asheville Elopement Photographer, I am looking for beauty in everything, and this courthouse has just that. It’s stunning interior architecture is colorful and bold – making is so photogenic. Here’s a brief guide on how to make your elopement happen!

Marriage License

Before heading to the courthouse, you and your partner need to obtain a marriage license! Both individuals must be present and provide a valid ID AND Social Security card. The license is typically valid immediately upon issuance and for up to 60 days. Marriage Licenses are issued from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm at the Buncombe County Register of Deeds Office at 205 College Street. More info can be found here!

Scheduling the Ceremony

While many courthouses offer walk-in ceremonies, I would advise you to call ahead to see if this is possible! The Asheville offices can get busy! Scheduling ahead ensures that you have a dedicated time for your ceremony, making the process smoother. At the Buncombe County courthouse, civil ceremonies are only available on Fridays from 8:30am – 2:30pm.

Officiant or Magistrate?

In North Carolina, you can choose to have your marriage ceremony performed by either a religious officiant or a magistrate. If you opt for a magistrate, they are available at the courthouse to conduct ceremonies. If you prefer a religious officiant, you can arrange for one to meet you at the courthouse.

Your Witnesses

In NC, at least TWO witnesses of 18+ years old must be present – make sure they have valid identification. The particular elopement shared below had numerous friends present, but two of them were required to sign the marriage certificate. This requirement varies by state!

Get Married and Celebrate!

You’re welcome to write your own vows or say the vows as described by the officiant/magistrate.

After your short and sweet courthouse ceremony, take advantage of Asheville’s charm to celebrate your union. Explore the vibrant downtown, enjoy a meal or drinks somewhere like Eldr, have a larger celebration with friends and family at Rhubarb in their event space, or simply relish the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

My favorite thing about elopements, whether you’re saying ” I do” on the Blue Ridge Parkway or having a downtown Asheville courthouse elopement, is the flexibility you have to celebrate how YOU want to. There is so much beauty in that.