Brittany + Jay

Okay but when Brittany emailed me about photographing their Asheville courthouse elopement… I was immediately like YES. Say less. I’m in. 👏🏼

There is just something about elopements that has my whole heart. They’re intimate, emotional, intentional… all the good stuff. And I’ve been itching to photograph another Asheville courthouse elopement because it has been way too long.

A Downtown Asheville Elopement Story

Brittany showed up looking absolutely STUNNING (like… stop it 😍), with the prettiest bouquet from Stargazer’s. And this is where it gets extra special… her parents actually eloped on the same date in a friend’s living room over 30 years ago. So, Brittany and Jay chose that exact date to get married. I mean… come on. I love love. 🥹

It was just the two of them, both of their parents, and me. Simple, intentional, perfect.

…and then the plot twist.

When Your Asheville Courthouse Wedding Doesn’t Go as Planned

We had been waiting patiently, we were literally NEXT in line, doors open, we’re thinking “okay this is it!!!” Then the judge hits us with “he’s taking a break and has to go do another ceremony upstairs.” Umm what?😅

Cue the scramble.

Because remember, this wasn’t just any day. This date mattered. And everyone had come in from out of town. So we pivoted FAST. Called around, looked at options, and ended up making our way to the detention center to make it official (yes… really 😂).

And honestly? It turned out SO good.

They were incredibly kind, let us step outside for the ceremony (hello natural light 🙌🏼), and we even met the sheriff lol. Typically, Asheville courthouse ceremonies happen inside a courtroom, but this ended up being way prettier and honestly such a story for generations to come.

And Brittany? Absolute queen. She handled the last-minute change like a champ. No stress, just “we’re getting married today” energy. We love to see it, and I kept reminding her she deserved the biggest glass of champagne afterwards and probably a shot of tequila too 😜

Planning an Asheville Courthouse Elopement

If you’re thinking about an Asheville courthouse elopement, here’s what you need to know:

✨ Ceremonies only happen on Fridays from 8:30–2:30
✨ It’s first come, first serve—no appointments (so yes, there will be a line)
✨ Each ceremony takes about 10–15 minutes
✨ You need your marriage license ahead of time (or get there EARLY if doing it same day)
✨ It’s $50 cash
✨ You need two witnesses… but don’t worry, I got you 😉 I can absolutely be one

Why the Asheville Courthouse Is So Special

Let’s talk about the courthouse for a second because she deserves her moment.

Our Asheville courthouse is GORGEOUS. The architecture? Unreal. The details? Obsessed. You can keep it quick and simple or turn it into a full-day Asheville elopement experience and either way, you’re getting stunning photos.

And the best part? You’re right downtown Asheville. So after your ceremony, we can wander, explore, chase light, or even head to the Blue Ridge Mountains for those dreamy views. The options are endless.

Asheville Elopement Tips From a Photographer

My pro tips (because you know I’ve got you):

Get your hair and makeup done.
Bring the flowers.
Pop the champagne.
Cut the cake.

Make it feel like a whole moment, because it is. At the end of the day, you are married to your best friend.

And PLEASE hire a photographer who knows what they’re doing in tricky lighting. The courthouse is beautiful but it is DARK, and you want someone who can handle that and still deliver magic.

A Reminder of What Matters Most

I loved every second of this day—chaos, pivots, and all. Brittany and Jay’s elopement was such a reminder that at the end of the day, it’s about the two of you and the commitment you’re making… everything else is just part of the story.

And honestly? This one was a good one. 🤍

I cannot WAIT to photograph another courthouse wedding in Asheville soon!!!