A Photographer's Perspective: Guide to Planning Your Tent Wedding in Asheville

Written By Erin James

Imagine exchanging vows under the vast Carolina sky, your love story enshrined within the elegant drapes of a tent, set against the lush backdrop of Asheville's rolling hills. Tent weddings in this enchanting city are not just events; they are a rendezvous with nature's romance and intimacy. Hi, I'm Erin, a seasoned wedding photographer who has had the privilege of capturing these magical moments in Asheville. With each click, I've witnessed how the blend of nature's grandeur and the cozy, personalized space of a tent creates an unforgettable ambiance. Join me as we explore the allure of tent weddings in Asheville, where every photograph tells a tale of love, set amidst the beauty of the Appalachians.

The Allure of Asheville for Tent Weddings

Asheville, a city cradled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a breathtaking canvas for tent weddings. Its scenic beauty is more than just a backdrop; it's an integral part of every wedding story told here. Picture this: lush green forests, rolling hills, and the serene ambiance of nature, all coming together to create a romantic setting that's simply unmatched.

Why couples are drawn to have a tent wedding in Asheville:

  1. Stunning Natural Scenery: Asheville is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking natural landscapes. The surrounding mountains, lush forests, and picturesque views provide a spectacular backdrop for weddings, making tent setups particularly appealing to couples seeking a beautiful outdoor setting.

  2. Versatility and Customization: Tents provide a blank canvas for couples to customize their wedding, from rustic and bohemian to elegant and minimalistic. In Asheville's natural beauty, this customization thrives, allowing couples to create a unique celebration that blends seamlessly with the scenic surroundings.

  3. Connection with Nature: Couples love Asheville's tent weddings for their seamless blend of outdoor beauty and indoor comfort. These weddings offer a unique chance to enjoy Asheville's stunning natural surroundings in a cozy, sheltered setting, combining the best of both worlds.

  4. Privacy: Unlike some public or more open venues, a tented wedding can offer more privacy, making the event feel more exclusive and personal.

  5. Cost-Effective Options: Depending on the type and scale of the tent, this option can be more cost-effective than renting a traditional wedding venue. Tents offer a range of sizes and styles to fit various budgets.

  6. Flexible Location Choices: Tents provide the flexibility to set up a wedding venue in various locations, including backyards, beaches, vineyards, and other scenic spots. This allows couples to choose a location that has personal significance or offers a unique backdrop for their ceremony and reception.

In Asheville, your tent wedding is not just an event; it's a celebration of love intertwined with the beauty of nature and the warmth of a welcoming city. It's no wonder that couples are drawn to this enchanting locale for their most memorable day.

Choosing the Perfect Tent

Selecting the right tent for your Asheville wedding is crucial in crafting the ideal atmosphere for your special day. The variety of tent options available caters to every style and preference, ensuring your wedding is as unique as your love story.

Diverse Tent Styles:

Selecting the right tent for your Asheville wedding is not just about comfort and style—it's about how the tent contributes to the overall photographic beauty of your special day. As a wedding photographer, I've seen how the choice of tent can dramatically affect the ambiance and mood captured in your wedding photos.

Here's a detailed look at some of the options and important considerations:

  • With their classic peaked rooflines and elegant drapes, traditional pole tents lend a timeless feel to your wedding photos. The symmetry and lines created by these tents add a structured, elegant backdrop, perfect for capturing those grand, cinematic shots that are filled with romance.

    Pros:

    • Timeless Aesthetic: The classic design offers a romantic, traditional backdrop, perfect for couples wanting a conventional wedding feel in their photos.

    • Structured Composition: The peaked rooflines and symmetrical design provide a neat, organized frame, making it easier to compose balanced and aesthetically pleasing shots.

    • Elegant Drapes: These can create soft, flowing lines in photos, adding a sense of elegance and movement.

    Cons:

    • Lighting Limitations: The opaquer material may limit the amount of natural light, potentially requiring additional lighting setups for optimal photography.

    • Space Constraints: Depending on the size, they might offer less flexibility for large, dynamic group shots or expansive dance floor scenes.

    • Fixed Layout: The central poles can be an obstacle, limiting the photographer’s movement and angles for capturing candid moments.

  • These contemporary tents offer a direct visual connection to the Asheville sky, making for dramatic and enchanting photography, especially under a starlit night. The transparent roof acts like a natural softbox during the day, providing diffused, flattering light for your photos. At night, they transform into a canvas for the starry sky, creating an ethereal backdrop for your most cherished moments.

    Pros:

    • Natural Lighting: The transparent roof allows for abundant natural light, creating a soft and flattering ambiance ideal for photography.

    • Starry Night Backdrop: At night, these tents offer a spectacular view of the sky, making for uniquely beautiful and romantic photos.

    • Modern Feel: They provide a contemporary setting, perfect for couples looking for a non-traditional, chic wedding atmosphere.

    Cons:

    • Weather Dependent: The visual impact greatly depends on weather conditions; an overcast day might not provide the desired ethereal effect.

    • Temperature Control: These tents can get warm during sunny days, possibly affecting guest comfort and the energy of the event.

    • Glare and Exposure: Direct sunlight can cause glare or harsh shadows, presenting challenges in managing photo exposure.

  • Ideal for larger weddings, marquee tents offer spaciousness that is both stylish and practical. From a photographer's viewpoint, the ample space allows for creatively staged shots and candid moments captured amidst the joyous celebrations. Their broad structure can accommodate elaborate lighting setups, enhancing both the mood and the visual appeal of your photographs.

    Pros:

    • Spacious Interior: Ideal for large weddings, offering ample space for various photographic setups and large group photos.

    • Flexible Layout: The absence of internal poles provides greater flexibility in layout, allowing for unobstructed movement and a variety of shooting angles.

    • Elaborate Lighting Options: Their structure supports sophisticated lighting setups, enhancing both the mood and visual appeal of photographs.

    Cons:

    • Size Considerations: Their large size might not be suitable for more intimate, smaller weddings, where a cozy atfgmosphere is desired.

    • More Complex Setup: They often require more time and effort to decorate and light effectively due to their larger size.

    • Potential for Overcrowding: If not planned well, the large space can become cluttered with decor or guests, complicating the task of capturing clean, focused photographs.

Choosing the right tent in Asheville is not solely a matter of practicality; it's about creating a harmonious space that complements both the beauty of your love story and the breathtaking splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains. By carefully considering your preferences, the season of your wedding, and the unique features of your chosen location, you can select the perfect tent that will set the stage for an unforgettable wedding day in Asheville.

Tent Rental Options in Asheville for Your Dream Wedding

When planning a tent wedding in the charming city of Asheville, selecting the right tent rental company is crucial for creating your dream setting. Each company offers unique services and experiences, ensuring you find the perfect match for your big day. Here's a brief guide to some top tent rental options in Asheville:

  • They offer a wide range of tents, furniture, and equipment for events of any size. Known for their customer service and attention to detail, they can cater to both indoor and outdoor events. They are highly regarded for their quality and reliability, as evidenced by numerous positive customer testimonials

    Click Here for their website

  • This company provides an extensive selection of rental items including tents, tables, chairs, lighting, staging, décor, audiovisual equipment, and more. They have received high praise for their responsiveness, quality of rentals, and ability to work with fluctuating needs, which is particularly important for wedding planning​

    Click Here to see their website

  • Besides offering tent rentals, they also provide a variety of other wedding essentials such as lighting, linens, microphones, and mixers. This could be a convenient option if you're looking to source multiple items from a single place

    Click Here to see their website

  • Specializing in tent rentals, they also offer tent lighting, tables, chairs, linens, and china/glassware. They are a family-owned business with over 35 years of experience and focus on providing personalized service and affordable options.

    Click Here to see their website

Each of these companies has its unique strengths and services, so I recommend reaching out to them to discuss your specific needs and to get quotes. This will help you find the best fit for your wedding's style and requirements.

Location Suggestions for Setting up a Tent for your Wedding:

Asheville, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, presents a picturesque backdrop for weddings. The diversity of venues in Asheville caters to various preferences, whether you're dreaming of an outdoor mountainous setting or a historical estate.

  • The natural beauty of Asheville shines in outdoor and mountain venues. Yonder Wedding Rentals offers luxury vacation homes, ideal for intimate and personalized ceremonies. Catalpa Grove Events, on the other hand, boasts a serene environment with captivating views, perfect for nature-inspired weddings.

  • For those who favor a blend of elegance and rustic charm, estate and farm venues like Hidden River Events stand out. It features a large architectural tent, akin to the Sydney Opera House, with a capacity of up to 225 guests. The venue provides comprehensive services including lighting, vintage furniture, and diverse catering options.

  • The trend of private home rentals for weddings is rising in Asheville. Venues such as the French Broad River Lodge and Hart House offer expansive yards ideal for tent setups. These homes blend the comfort of a personal space with the beauty of Asheville's landscapes, some offering mountain views and large lawns.

  • Asheville is also home to unique and historic venues like Homewood, a castle-like stone manor, and East West Venue, which offers a customizable space. These venues often feature outdoor areas for ceremonies and indoor spaces for receptions, allowing for a seamless blend of history and modernity.

  • For a more relaxed and communal atmosphere, summer camp venues are a novel choice. These settings provide a unique and unforgettable experience for tent weddings, embodying a spirit of togetherness and fun.

Each venue in Asheville offers distinct features and services, catering to a range of wedding visions and requirements. When selecting a venue, it's crucial to consider the amenities and specifics each offers to ensure they align with your dream wedding day.

 

Tented Wedding Venues in Asheville: Suggestions

Asheville, known for its scenic beauty and charming venues, offers some exquisite options for tented weddings. Here's a brief overview of some notable venues:

  • This venue is a haven for those seeking a blend of elegance and natural beauty. Boasting a large 6,800 square-foot reception tent, it comes equipped with cathedral window sidewalls, heaters, fans, lighting, and vintage furniture, accommodating up to 225 guests. The tent's unique design lends itself to a memorable and stylish wedding reception.

  • While specific details about tent weddings at Bunn House weren't readily available, this venue is celebrated for its elegance and intimate ambiance. Prospective couples are encouraged to contact Bunn House directly to explore the possibility of a tented wedding setup, as many venues offer flexible arrangements to suit varied wedding visions.

  • Information about tented weddings at Twisted Maple wasn't explicitly found in the sources reviewed. However, given the adaptability of many venues to accommodate diverse wedding preferences, it's recommended to get in touch with them for more precise details about their offerings.

  • Renowned for its serene setting and rustic charm, this venue spans 21 acres with wooded paths, open fields, and rolling hills. It features a Barn, originally a stable, now transformed into a glamorous space with elegant chandeliers. For those interested in a tented wedding, reaching out directly to the venue will provide the most accurate and current information.

Each of these venues in Asheville presents its unique charm and services, making them ideal for those looking to celebrate their special day under the picturesque Asheville sky. When considering a venue, it's important to discuss your specific needs and desires to ensure the venue can accommodate your dream tented wedding.

Weather and Landscape Considerations:

When choosing a tent, it's important to consider Asheville's diverse weather patterns and landscapes. For summer weddings, tents with sidewalls can provide shade and comfort. In cooler months, opting for tents with heating options can add warmth and coziness. Given Asheville's varied terrain, it's also crucial to select a tent that can be securely anchored, ensuring safety and stability.

Here are some things to consider:

  • Asheville's summers are warm and sunny, offering vibrant, natural lighting that is ideal for capturing lively and colorful photos. However, the bright sunlight can create harsh shadows. Opting for tents with sidewalls allows for controlling the amount of direct sunlight, ensuring a soft, diffused light that is flattering in photographs.

    Consider the position of the sun during your ceremony and reception. A tent with adjustable sidewalls can be oriented to maximize natural light while minimizing glare, enhancing the quality of your photos.

    Embrace the season in your photo sessions by capturing the lush greenery and vibrant flowers of Asheville's summer landscapes.

    • Autumnal Ambiance: Fall in Asheville is characterized by cooler temperatures and a stunning palette of autumn colors. The changing leaves provide a rich backdrop of reds, oranges, and yellows, ideal for creating warm and vibrant photographs. Tents equipped with heating options not only add comfort but also enhance this cozy, autumnal ambiance, which reflects beautifully in photos.

    • Soft and Diffuse Light: The softer light during fall offers a unique opportunity for capturing moody and romantic images. This natural lighting is less harsh than summer sun, allowing for more even and flattering illumination in your photographs.

    • Evening Charm: Evening receptions in the cooler months can be particularly enchanting. The strategic use of lighting within the tent, such as string lights, lanterns, or chandeliers, creates a warm, inviting glow. This kind of lighting arrangement not only adds to the ambiance but also provides soft, flattering light for photography, capturing the intimate and cozy feel of your fall wedding.

    • The varied terrain of Asheville, from rolling hills to forested areas, can impact your photography. Ensure that your tent is securely anchored, as stability is crucial for safety and uninterrupted photo sessions.

    • Consider the natural surroundings and how they can be incorporated into your photos. Whether it’s the rolling hills or the dense forests, each offers a unique backdrop that can add depth and character to your wedding photographs.

    • Discuss with your photographer about the best spots within your chosen location for couple portraits, group shots, and candid moments, taking advantage of the natural beauty and the tent's setup.


Choosing the right tent in Asheville is not solely a matter of practicality; it's about creating a harmonious space that complements both the beauty of your love story and the breathtaking splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

By carefully considering your preferences, the season of your wedding, and the unique features of your chosen location, you can select the perfect tent that will set the stage for an unforgettable wedding day in Asheville.

 

Photographic Advantages of a Well-Planned Tent Setup in Asheville

A thoughtfully selected tent profoundly influences wedding photography. Here's how:

  • Natural Light Utilization: The right tent plays a crucial role in harnessing Asheville's natural light. For instance, clear-top tents invite an abundance of daylight, perfect for crafting bright, vivid photos that exude a fresh and lively atmosphere. This setup is especially beneficial for daytime celebrations, ensuring that each picture radiates with natural charm.

  • Evening Magic: As day turns to night, the transformation within the tent can be spectacular. The glow from strategically placed lights, like fairy lights or elegant chandeliers, casts a soft, romantic ambiance. This setting is not just visually stunning but also perfect for creating whimsical and intimate photographs that capture the essence of an evening under Asheville’s skies.

  • Weather-Ready Photography: My experience with Asheville’s diverse weather ensures readiness for any scenario. Overcast days bring soft, diffused lighting ideal for portraits, while the golden hour sun offers a warm, magical glow. Each condition provides its own set of picturesque moments, enabling me to capture the unique beauty of your special day, rain or shine.

Each element of a well-planned tent setup contributes to a photo-ready environment, ensuring that your wedding memories are captured flawlessly.

 

Decor and Aesthetics: A Photographer's Insight

The right decor in a tent wedding can dramatically elevate the photographs, capturing the essence of the day. As a photographer with a keen eye for detail, I've observed decor elements that not only enhance the beauty of the setting but also photograph exceptionally well.

  • Imagine a wedding under a tent, not just any tent, but one that exudes an ethereal fairy-tale aura. This is where the minimalist elegance of an all-white palette comes into play. The key is in the subtlety of the décor – think white floral arches welcoming guests, tables adorned with white tablescapes punctuated by greenery runners. The inclusion of candles infuses a whimsical charm, making the setting not just visually appealing but deeply enchanting. This approach to decor creates a dreamlike, serene ambiance that’s perfect for capturing timeless photographs.

  • A tent's ceiling is a canvas ripe for artistic expression. Utilizing draping and creative lighting can dramatically transform a tent from a mere shelter to a stunning venue. The magic lies in matching ceiling designs with the floor, creating a cohesive and immersive environment. For those who dare to be different, clear-top tents are a fantastic innovation, allowing the natural beauty of Asheville's skies to play a part in the décor. Creative lighting should not be confined to the interior; illuminating external facilities adds to the overall allure and safety of the venue.

  • The rustic theme, a perennial favorite for tent weddings, can be uniquely tailored for Asheville’s natural beauty. Incorporate birch elements and lanterns, creating a connection with the surrounding woodlands. Wrap crystal chandeliers in trailing leaves and floral halos for a touch of elegance. The flooring can be transformed with color-blocked tiles, adding vibrancy to the rustic setting. A burlap or macramé entryway, lined with cacti or similar flora, sets the tone for an authentic rustic experience.

  • A chic bohemian wedding under a tent in Asheville can be a visual feast. A palette of white and green, accented with stunning floral chandeliers, sets a sophisticated yet organic tone. In contrast, a modern wedding might favor clear or glass tents, which connect the celebration seamlessly with the outdoor landscape. Such tents serve as a window to Asheville’s picturesque surroundings, making them a photographer’s delight. Neutral color schemes with accents in green and strategically placed whimsical string lights add a touch of intimacy and glamour.

  • The decorating journey of a tent wedding should start at the entrance – first impressions count. Suspended flowers and greenery can guide guests into the tent, setting a tone of natural elegance. Within the tent, decorating should be layered. Start with the canopy, using decorative elements to draw the eye upwards, then move to eye level with additional floral and lighting arrangements. If space allows, consider an outdoor seating area adjacent to the tent, offering guests a comfortable space to mingle and relax.

  • Exploring various themes can significantly enhance the aesthetic of a tent wedding. Options range from glow-up themes, which add a playful and vibrant energy, to more refined themes like sophisticated camp vibes or organic greenery. Each theme can be adapted to reflect the couple’s personality and the natural ambiance of Asheville, ensuring a unique and unforgettable wedding experience.

Tent weddings in Asheville provide an exceptional canvas for blending natural splendor with inventive decor. These weddings, rich in aesthetics and imbued with the area's picturesque charm, offer endless opportunities for photographers to capture moments of beauty and heartfelt emotion, creating memories that endure.

 

Space Constraints:

Navigating Photography in Intimate Settings
When planning a tent wedding, one question often arises: How will the photographer skillfully navigate and position themselves, especially in a crowded or intricately arranged tent? This concern is valid, as space constraints can challenge a photographer's ability to capture diverse angles and moments. However, experienced photographers are adept at maneuvering through tight spaces, transforming these limitations into creative opportunities. They employ compact, versatile equipment and adopt unobtrusive techniques to capture the essence of your day. The key lies in pre-planning – discussing the tent layout with your photographer beforehand allows them to strategize their movements and shots, ensuring comprehensive coverage of your special moments, regardless of spatial challenges.

Evening Lighting for Your Asheville Tent Wedding

Planning your dream tent wedding in Asheville involves more than just selecting the right decor and venue; it's also about understanding how lighting can impact your cherished photos. Here's a look at effective lighting strategies from a photographer's viewpoint, tailored to enhance the beauty of your special day:

  • Setting the Mood with Ideal Lighting

    • Soft, Romantic Glow: Opt for ambient lighting like fairy lights and lanterns. These create a warm, inviting atmosphere, providing a gentle illumination that's perfect for photography.

    • Even Distribution: Place lights thoughtfully around the tent. An even distribution avoids overly bright or dim spots, ensuring a consistent and magical ambiance.

  • Lighting for Functionality and Safety:

    • Pathway Lights: Illuminate walkways and paths leading to and from the tent. This ensures safety for your guests and adds an elegant touch to the overall setting.

    • Accent Lighting for Decor: Highlight important areas like the wedding cake, guest book, or floral arrangements with spotlights or accent lighting. This not only draws attention to these details but also ensures they are captured beautifully in your photographs.

  • Photographer's Role in Lighting

    • Highlighting Key Moments: A skillful photographer can use portable flashes or additional lighting to accentuate special moments, like your first dance or the cutting of the cake. By directing light artfully, these pivotal moments become vivid and memorable in your wedding photos.

      Utilizing Natural Light: As your wedding transitions from day to night, the changing light offers unique photographic opportunities. During the golden hour, when the sun sets, soft, warm light bathes the Asheville mountains, creating a magical backdrop for your photos.

The right lighting plays a pivotal role in transforming your Asheville tent wedding into an enchanting evening. By thoughtfully combining soft, ambient light with functional and decorative elements, you not only set a romantic mood but also create a visually stunning setting that your photographer can capture perfectly

Navigating Daytime Lighting

The bright midday sun can present challenges, from guest comfort to photographic nuances. To ensure your day is bathed in the best possible light, here are some effective strategies to manage and harness the sunlight, enhancing both the experience and the captured memories of your special day:

  • Choosing the right location for your tent can greatly influence the lighting. Position your tent to take advantage of natural shade or to minimize direct exposure to harsh midday sun. Understanding the sun's trajectory during your event helps in making an informed decision.

  • Soften the intense sunlight by using draperies or fabric linings inside your tent. These not only act as elegant decor elements but also diffuse harsh light, creating a more flattering and ambient setting for your photos.

  • Beyond the main tent, consider incorporating smaller shade providers like canopies or parasols, especially in areas that are likely to receive more sunlight. This approach ensures comfort for your guests while offering varied and interesting backdrops for photos.

  • Pay attention to the orientation of the seating and altar within the tent. Position them in a way that the sun is behind the guests and the couple, preventing direct sunlight in their eyes and overexposure in photographs.

  • Use floral arrangements or décor elements to create natural barriers against harsh sunlight. Tall plants, trees in pots, or large floral arrangements can be strategically placed to shield the ceremony area from direct sun.

Visit the venue at the same time of day as your planned ceremony to understand the lighting conditions. This allows you to plan the layout and orientation of your ceremony space more effectively.

Implementing these strategies will ensure that each moment of your special day is enveloped in the best possible light, allowing for stunning, well-lit photographs. Your tent wedding, with its thoughtful lighting setup, will become a picturesque scene, perfectly capturing the essence of your unforgettable day.

 

Planning Tips from a Photographer’s Perspective

Successful tent weddings in Asheville hinge on meticulous planning, especially regarding photography. Here are key considerations:

  • Timeline with Natural Light: Plan your schedule around the natural light. For instance, schedule couple portraits during the golden hour for that soft, dreamy look. Ensure key events like the ceremony or first dance occur when the lighting is optimal.

  • Open Communication: Constant communication with your photographer is vital. Discuss your vision and expectations, and be open to suggestions. This collaboration ensures your photographer can capture the essence of your day, from candid moments to stunning portraits.

  • Backup Plans for Weather: Asheville's weather can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan for indoor photography or covered areas within the tent. This ensures that, come rain or shine, your wedding photos will still be beautiful.

  • Scout the Location: If possible, visit the venue with your photographer beforehand. This allows for planning specific shots, understanding the lighting at different times of the day, and identifying picturesque spots within the venue.

Remember, a well-planned timeline and clear communication can dramatically enhance the photographic outcome of your special day.

Finally,

In conclusion, tent weddings in Asheville are more than just events; they are a celebration of love set against an extraordinary backdrop of natural beauty. Each tent wedding here is a unique tapestry woven with moments of joy, intimacy, and the grandeur of the Blue Ridge Mountains. As couples embark on this beautiful journey, I encourage you to embrace your vision and the enchanting setting of Asheville. Trust in the synergy of your dreams and the expertise of your photographer to capture the essence of your day. Remember, your wedding is a story waiting to be told, and Asheville provides the perfect setting to narrate it.

If you're dreaming of a tent wedding in Asheville and want to capture its natural beauty and your special moments in a genuine, heartfelt way, I'd love to help. At Erin Jay Wedding Photography, we focus on creating authentic, lasting memories, not just pictures. Feel free to reach out — let's chat about your vision and how we can bring it to life together in the stunning scenery of Asheville.

Erin James
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