Discover the best places to elope in Virginia and enjoy the hidden gems of love and scenic beauty in Southwest Virginia
When it comes to planning your wedding, it’s essential to choose a location that resonates with y’all’s personality and love story. If you’re dreaming of an intimate and breathtaking elopement, don’t sleep on Southwest Virginia! This region, encompassing charming towns like Roanoke, Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Floyd, Martinsville, and Bedford, offers a good mix of places to elope in Virginia that will appeal to any couple, making it a perfect spot for tying the knot. Here are some of the best places to elope in Virginia, specifically in the southwest, where love meets the stunning landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Roanoke, Virginia: The Star City of Love
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke, also known as the “Star City,” offers a perfect blend of urban charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for your elopement and one of the best places to elope in Virginia. (I may be biased though because that’s where I live!)
The iconic Mill Mountain Star provides a stunning backdrop, whether at sunrise or under the starry night sky. You can also choose to exchange vows in Elmwood Park or enjoy a romantic riverside ceremony along the scenic Roanoke Greenway.
Downtown Roanoke offers a plethora of activities for everyone, while nearby spots like McAfee’s Knob provide epic mountain views for adventurous couples. I’ve actually written a helpful blog about how you can utilize this iconic landmark for an engagement session and majority of the advice I offer in that piece also applies to elopements.
Water lovers can explore Carvin’s Cove, just a short drive away from downtown, or Smith Mountain Lake, about an hour outside of Roanoke.
Be inspired by Anna and Ben’s Downtown Roanoke elopement, Nalli and Rob’s Carvin’s Cove elopement, Lindsey Page and Taylor’s Fishburn Park elopement, Meredith and Ryanne’s Roanoke Airbnb elopement, and Jenny and Adam’s Mill Mountain Star elopement as you plan your special day in this enchanting city.
Blacksburg, Virginia: Hokie Love in the Hokie Nation
Blacksburg, home to Virginia Tech, is a great destination for couples seeking a unique blend of academia and natural beauty for their elopement. Having spent three years working at Virginia Tech and commuting to campus at least once a week from Roanoke, I can assure you that there are plenty of beautiful spots for your photos!
Consider two picturesque locations directly on campus like Hahn Horticulture Garden or Duck Pond. Or, if you’re looking for something a little further from campus (especially around move in time!), the serene Pandapas Pond Recreation Area is another great choice for a tranquil outdoor ceremony!
If you prefer a more mountainous backdrop, Heritage Park offers open fields with stunning mountain views. For a waterfall and rocks ambiance, Cascade Falls is just a 30-minute drive away! Whether you’re drawn to academia, nature, or both, Blacksburg has you covered for your elopement.
Check out Hannah and Taylor’s Star-Trek Inspired Moss Arts Center elopement, Frazier and Austin’s Heritage Park elopement, and Courtney and Nadine’s Duck Pond elopement and start getting hyped up to elope in this amazing town!
Christiansburg, Virginia: Rustic Romance in the NRV
Just a short distance from Blacksburg, Christiansburg is also a great place to elope in Virginia. Eloping couples can find their perfect spot amidst the natural beauty of the area. Consider exchanging vows along the Huckleberry Trail, a 15-mile paved pathway that serves as the hear of a 60-mile network connecting the Blacksburg and Christiansburg communities. Surrounded by lush forests and picturesque views of the New River Valley, the Huckleberry Trail provides a serene setting for an intimate ceremony. Imagine saying “I do” with the gentle rustle of leaves and the songs of birds as your backdrop, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.
For those seeking a lakeside setting, Claytor Lake State Park, just a 20-minute drive away, offers a stunning location for your elopement. With its sprawling lake, sandy beaches, and rolling hills, Claytor Lake State Park provides a serene backdrop against the sparkling water and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, creating unforgettable memories of your special day.
Additionally, also just outside of Christiansburg, Bald Knob offers a short, steep hike with stunning mountain views reminiscent of Humpback Rocks near Charlottesville, making it an ideal spot for sunset vows over the New River Valley.
Floyd, Virginia: A Blue Ridge Hideaway
Floyd, often referred to as the “Home of Americana Music,” is a hidden gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Elope in rustic style at Chateau Morrisette Winery, where you can exchange vows among the vineyards. The scenic Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve also offers an incredible backdrop for a mountaintop elopement.
Nearby, Rocky Knob Recreation Area offers open fields with a stunning mountain backdrop and is home to perhaps the most iconic structure on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway: Mabry Mill.
You could also elope at one of the many Blue Ridge Parkway overlook spaces, like Cahas Mountain Overlook! Keep in mind that you will need to get a permit for any spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway; luckily for you, I’ve written a blog about how to obtain a Blue Ridge Parkway Special Use Permit and include everything you should know about getting one.
Martinsville, Virginia: A Natural Oasis in the Speedway City
Martinsville, Virginia, often recognized for its iconic speedway, is another hidden gem for couples seeking an elopement destination in Southwest Virginia. Beyond the racetrack, Martinsville has a ton of natural beauty waiting to be discovered.
Consider Fairy Stone State Park: a serene and enchanting location for an elopement that captures the essence of Virginia’s natural wonders. Also, if you’re wanting a beach wedding but don’t want to drive all the way to Virginia Beach to have one… Fairy Stone State Park has a manmade beach on site.
Additionally, Philpott Lake offers another breathtaking option, with its stunning lakeside and mountainous surroundings creating a perfect backdrop for your special day.
If you’re looking for a super cute venue spot, check out the historic Little Post Office! It’s just so tiny and adorable; how could you NOT want to snap some photos here?!
Martinsville may be synonymous with speed, but its natural allure makes it a charming choice for couples seeking a tranquil and scenic elopement experience.
Bedford, Virginia: Historic Charm and Natural Beauty
With its historic charm and natural beauty, Bedford offers a diverse range of stunning backdrops for your intimate wedding ceremony.
For those seeking mountaintop magic, the Peaks of Otter Lodge is a great option if you’re looking for 1.) drop dead gorgeous views and 2.) a bomb setting for your elopement. Alternatively, adventurous couples can choose the Peaks of Otter Campgrounds and hike to Sharp Top for a sunrise ceremony like no other. Imagine having the summit alllll to yourselves as you exchange vows against the backdrop of a stunning sunrise.
If an urban atmosphere appeals to you, Bedford’s historic downtown area provides a charming setting with cobblestone streets and quaint storefronts. After your ceremony, unwind at Beale’s Brewery or Peaks of Otter Winery by savoring local flavors and celebrating your new life together. Whether y’all prefer a mountaintop adventure or a small-town-down-South vibe, Bedford, Virginia, offers the ideal blend of nature and history for your elopement.
If you’re looking to go even farther west…
Heading deeper into Virginia’s Southwest region, you’ll uncover a trio of captivating elopement destinations that are sure to make your special day truly unforgettable. These are also some of the most popular places to elope in Virginia!
Grayson Highlands State Park lures couples with its rugged terrain and the enchanting presence of wild ponies that roam freely. Here, amidst rolling hills and dramatic rock formations, you can exchange vows in the company of these gentle creatures, creating a unique and authentic wilderness experience.
For couples seeking the pinnacle of Virginia’s beauty, Whitetop Mountain offers, yet another, stunning mountaintop setting for your elopement. With panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, including the iconic Mount Rogers, you’ll feel on top of the world as you begin your journey together as a married couple.
Speaking of Mount Rogers, Virginia’s highest point, it stands as a sublime elopement destination in its own right, within the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. With alpine forests, open meadows, and breathtaking landscapes, Mount Rogers would make for an incredible place to elope, whether you choose the lush forests, rocky outcrops, or endless skies as your ceremony’s setting.
Tips for Planning Your Southwest Virginia Elopement
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Check Permits and Regulations: Make sure to research and obtain any necessary permits for your chosen elopement location, especially if it’s a public or private property. Also, if you intend to use any spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway for your elopement, you will need to apply for a permit. Feeling stressed already? Don’t be! I help all of my couples with securing any required permits for their elopement day, which means less time stressing about legalities and more time spent relaxing in one another’s arms as you put on your favorite show.
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Weather Considerations: Southwest Virginia experiences all four seasons, so consider the weather and the time of year when planning your elopement. Fall offers stunning foliage, while spring and summer bring lush greenery. If you need further advice on which places to go during which seasons, here is a blog I’ve written that covers the best times to get married in Virginia. By the way, I scout out locations for elopements all of the time and I always prepare backup options for my couples in case mother nature has it out for us. So, no matter the weather, you’re going to have a blast!
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Local Vendors: Explore local vendors for your needs. Southwest Virginia is home to talented professionals who can help make your day extra special; here’s a few inclusive vendors and venues in Virginia to help get you started. As your elopement photographer, I can help you with this! Not only do I take bomb photos of your day, but I also recommend local, inclusive, and affirming vendors that you might need for your day — say “sashay away” to vetting everyone involved in your elopement day!
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Accommodations: Ensure that you and your guests have suitable accommodations in the area. Many venues offer lodging options, and nearby towns provide a range of choices. I also help you with venue and lodging recommendations!
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Photography: Consider hiring a local photographer who knows the area well. They can guide you to the best spots for stunning elopement photos. (Wink, wink, nudge, nudge)
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Personal Touch: Incorporate elements of your story into the ceremony. Whether it’s a favorite song, a meaningful reading, or a unique vow exchange, make it a reflection of your love. To help you with this, I take the time to get to know y’all and your story to ensure that you leave our experience together with amazing and true-to-you photos.
There are a ton of great places to elope in Virginia, especially in the often “slept-on” Southwest Virginia region. Eloping in Southwest Virginia offers a unique opportunity to celebrate your love amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you choose a mountaintop ceremony, a riverside exchange of vows, or an intimate gathering in a charming town, this region has it all. It’s a place where love blooms as naturally as the flowers in spring and where every season brings its unique charm.
So, what are you waiting for?! The hollers are ready to welcome you! Imagine having your elopement in a small town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and experiencing the magic of Southwest Virginia with it’s sweet mountain air and ever-flowing rivers and streams. And the best part? I’ll be there every step of the way to create and photograph your day!
Fill out an inquiry form to start planning your ultimate elopement experience or check out my pricing to learn more about my packages and what it’s like to work with me
Here are some additional planning resources that I’d recommend to help you get started:
