Planning an Old Edwards Wedding in Highlands
An Old Edwards wedding is one of the most sought-after destination wedding experiences in the Southeast. Located in Highlands, North Carolina, Old Edwards Hospitality Group offers a collection of venues, guest accommodations, and dining experiences that allow couples to host an entire wedding weekend in one place.
Many couples first discover Highlands while searching for a luxury mountain destination that still feels intimate and charming. An Old Edwards wedding delivers exactly that. Guests can explore the town, enjoy exceptional hospitality, and celebrate across multiple events throughout the weekend.
If you are considering an Old Edwards wedding, there are a few details couples should understand before beginning the planning process.
Old Edwards Weddings Include Multiple Venues
Many couples assume Old Edwards Inn is a single wedding venue. In reality, an Old Edwards wedding can take place at 12 different venues operated by Old Edwards Hospitality Group.
Each location offers a different style and capacity. Venue selection usually begins with three key factors:
• guest count
• overall wedding investment
• the style of celebration you envision
Couples often host multiple events throughout the weekend including rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, bridal luncheons, and farewell brunches.
This flexibility is one of the reasons an Old Edwards wedding works so well for destination celebrations.
The Booking Process for an Old Edwards Wedding
The booking process for an Old Edwards wedding is slightly different from many venues.
Before scheduling a site visit, couples typically receive an estimate from the sales team. This step allows the team to guide couples toward venues that best match their guest count and investment range before touring properties. Once a couple decides on a venue and date, a contract is usually issued within about a week. The date is held during that time while the couple reviews the agreement.
Deposits and Payment Structure
Every Old Edwards wedding follows a structured payment schedule.
The initial deposit is typically 30 percent of the estimated total event cost, including tax and service fees. The final balance and confirmed guest count are due approximately 14 days before the wedding date. Couples planning a destination wedding in Highlands should keep this timing in mind since many vendors also require final payments around the same timeframe.
A Professional Planner Is Required for an Old Edwards Wedding
One of the most important planning requirements is hiring a professional wedding planner.
Old Edwards does not provide in-house wedding planners. Instead, couples must hire a professional coordinator or planner depending on the size of the event.
The requirements are:
• weddings under 100 guests require a professional month-of coordinator
• weddings with 100 or more guests require a full-service planner
• weddings at Half-Mile Farm require a full-service planner
Planners must be professional vendors and cannot be friends or family members. This requirement helps ensure the wedding day runs smoothly and that all vendors are coordinated effectively.
Outdoor Ceremony Planning at Old Edwards
Many couples choose an Old Edwards wedding because of the beautiful mountain scenery in Highlands.
If you plan an outdoor ceremony, a weather backup plan is required. This typically involves reserving a tent through a third-party vendor. Certain venues specifically require tenting plans to be held in reserve in case weather conditions change.
Mountain weather can shift quickly, so having a contingency plan ensures the celebration continues seamlessly.
Transportation Logistics for Certain Old Edwards Venues
Transportation is another important detail when planning an Old Edwards wedding.
For example, weddings hosted at The Farm require guest transportation between town and the venue. The number and type of vehicles depend on the guest count. Transportation policies are designed to ensure guest safety on the mountain roads and help events begin on schedule.
Understanding Old Edwards Wedding Pricing
Pricing for an Old Edwards wedding includes two main components.
- The venue fee covers use of the venue and foundational event items such as tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware, and flatware.
- Each venue also has a food and beverage minimum that must be met through catering and bar service.
If the guest count does not meet the minimum spend, couples can reach it through menu enhancements, upgraded bar packages, or extended service hours. The contracted minimum must be met even if fewer guests attend.
Catering for an Old Edwards Wedding
All food and beverage for an Old Edwards wedding is provided by the venue. Outside catering is not permitted, although couples may bring in a wedding cake from an approved bakery.
Instead of a traditional tasting, couples attend a planning meeting roughly three months before the wedding. During this meeting they work with the chef and catering manager to finalize menu selections and event details.
Couples also enjoy a complimentary dinner at Madison’s restaurant to experience the service and cuisine style before the wedding weekend.
Guest Accommodations for an Old Edwards Wedding
Because Highlands is a destination location, guest accommodations are a major part of the experience. Couples hosting an Old Edwards wedding receive a room block based on the size of their event.
Two important details couples should know:
- There is typically no discounted room rate for room blocks.
- Weekend room blocks usually require a two-night minimum stay.
Because of this, couples often provide additional accommodation options throughout Highlands.
Why Couples Choose an Old Edwards Wedding
Highlands offers something rare for destination weddings. It combines luxury hospitality with the charm of a small mountain town. Guests can spend the weekend exploring restaurants, hiking trails, and boutique shops before gathering for wedding festivities. For couples who want their celebration to feel like a full getaway for their guests, an Old Edwards wedding creates a memorable experience that extends far beyond the ceremony itself.
