The Outer Banks, without question, is one of the most picturesque places to bring together you, your betrothed, and your respective families on your wedding day. The question is where. Whether you have your ceremony on the beach at sunrise, the sound at sunset, or under a lighthouse, we have virtually endless wedding venues on our shores that will turn your destination wedding into the one you’ve always dreamed of. Arguably, there is no better place on earth to say “I do.” With all of our venue choices, you will be sure to find the picture perfect place that will suit your needs, well, perfectly.
Outer Banks Wedding Venues
Churches
If a traditional wedding, complete with a priest or minister, is what you have in mind for your ceremony, the Outer Banks can provide a place of worship that will delight you, your groom, and all your family and friends. The Outer Banks has everything including large, spacious churches with large reception halls to quaint little chapels. However, many churches require couples to use the in-house minister or priest and may require certificates of pre-marital counseling. Additional requirements may also apply for visiting couples, so be sure to contact your wedding place of worship directly.
Tip – You may want to contact your church early to schedule the date of your wedding. Also, be sure you know what their particular requirements might be. You don’t want to have any surprises in the days leading up to your wedding!
©LORI DOUGLAS PHOTOGRAPHY
The Beach
Is there anything more romantic than a beach wedding on the Outer Banks? Just think of soft sand between your toes. The sound of waves lapping at the shore, and the beautiful skies overhead, provide the picture perfect wedding setting. If you and your significant other are beach lovers and are looking to tie the knot along our shores, know that local towns and counties have jurisdiction over their beaches and access areas. Be sure to check out obxbeachaccess.com for details on all local beaches.
Tip – Know ahead of time that parking may be difficult, so some planning is in order. The various towns on the Outer Banks have their own parking regulations when it comes to beach access. You may want to consider hiring a trolley or van to shuttle your guests to and from the ceremony. Also, be sure to check out the tide charts. It is one thing to have waves lapping at the shore. It is another to have your ceremony invaded by the upcoming ocean.
Soundside Ceremonies
Are you a morning, or an evening person? In other words, do you prefer sunrises, or sunsets? If you prefer the latter, consider having your wedding on one of the sounds of the Outer Banks. There are countless miles of sound beaches that will provide a beautiful backdrop on your special day.
Under the Sea, Under a Beacon, or On the Green
As you are no doubt aware, the Outer Banks provides more than just beautiful beaches for your wedding. We have lighthouses, historical sites, or even the site where you and your soon to be spouse first fell in love. The clubhouses and dance floors at an oceanfront pier or golf course are also popular venues. Plus, their buildings offer a back-up plan just in case Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate on your wedding day. Let’s also not forget venues that may have a built-in theme to its setting. Places like the aquarium, a marina or maritime forest.
Maybe you’d like to tie the knot on the water. Good news! Everything from deep-sea fishing boats to a replica of a 16th-century English ship can provide a special venue to all the water loving couples getting married on the Outer Banks.
Tip – There is a $100 fee to host ceremonies within the Cape Hatteras National Park Service property. Please keep in mind that receptions are not permitted on these properties and regulations apply. If you wish to apply for a wedding permit, visit nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/wedding-permits.htm for more information, or
call 252-473-2111.
The Comforts of Home: Renting an Event House
On the Outer Banks there is a plethora of oceanfront beach houses that have been built with weddings and receptions in mind. You can take your pick from a wide array of beautiful homes that are available from Corolla all the way down to Ocracoke. Many of these homes feature large decks, spacious gathering areas, gazebos, and wooden walkways that will take you and your guests over the dunes down to the beach. Receptions can also easily be held next to your private pool or indoors. Industrial-sized kitchens and large gathering areas, both inside and outside, make event homes a hit with caterers. Game rooms, wet bars, and other features enhance the wedding experience. Occupancy limitations apply, so be sure to check with property management companies.
©SARAH D’AMBRA PHOTOGRAPHY
Outer Banks Wedding Accommodations
Especially in-season, it is important to think ahead about out of town accommodations for the guests planning on coming to your destination wedding on the Outer Banks. Fortunately, there are real estate agencies and vendors that are always ready and poised to offer their help. Whether you are taking on the task of finding a place for your guests, or simply just helping guide them, it makes things easier by having them all stay close together. The Outer Banks has a wide array of choices for you and your guests; from rental houses, to hotels, Airbnbs, and inns. With so many options, you’ll find something to suit the needs of all attending your Outer Banks wedding.
Rental Homes
Rental homes are a great choice if you are getting married on the beach. Couples can rent several homes close together for family and friends. Many larger homes have 12 or more bedrooms, dual kitchens and can accommodate multi-family groups.
Tip –Consider hiring a personal chef or caterer not only for the reception, but also to cook meals while you are in your beach house!
Hotels, Motels, Inns
In additional to single and multi-family homes, the Outer Banks is home to many wonderful hotels, quaint inns, cottage courts, and beachfront motels. These accommodations are perfect for guests who may not be staying an entire week. Many couples block off rooms at a nearby hotel, motel, or inn in anticipation of the number of guests they will invite. Many hotel rooms have features like kitchenettes, pools, exercise rooms, and spa services. The options in this area are endless and are sure to leave your guests feeling right at home on the Outer Banks.
No matter what venue you settle on, there’s no doubt that you’ll find the most beautiful places you can imagine right here on the Outer Banks. Take your time, relax, and enjoy the process as you discover these amazing Outer Banks venues, one of which is sure to be the perfect spot to begin your new life together!
These 2023 OUTER BANKS WEDDING VENUE TIPS will help you determine the best venue for your budget, party size, and location.
You’ve picked out the wedding date. You’ve selected your rings. You know you want your wedding to take place on the Outer Banks. Now the big question, where? The Outer Banks offers many choices in wedding venues. All unique in their own way. To figure which works best, you’ll need to ask some questions.
• Is it available? Make sure no one else already has it booked on your date.
• Does it fit into your budget? Make sure there are no hidden fees.
• Factor in convenience. Summer traffic can often turn a 15-minute drive into an hour.
• How is the size? Too big? Too small? Just right?
• What is the catering situation? Is it in-house? If not, is your off-site caterer on the venue’s approved vendor list (if they have one)?
• If weather is a consideration. Does the venue have enough space for a ceremony and reception?
• If using an in-house wedding coordinator, will it be the same person from start to finish? You may not want to have to deal with multiple people during your planning.
As you can see, there are many things to consider when selecting a wedding venue. Fortunately the Outer Banks has many venues to select from, and one will turn out to be the perfect place for you.