For Couples Looking for Timeless Elegance Outside of Raleigh
Hillsborough is a small town with a long history a short drive outside of Raleigh. Located on the Eno River, Hillsborough offers loads of entertainment, countryside living, and historical foundations. As a Raleigh-based wedding photographer for couples madly in love, I aim to highlight some of the best venues across North Carolina. Below are the top five most popular Hillsborough wedding venues for couples searching for an elevated wedding experience outside Raleigh.
Carolina Grove
Carolina Grove is an elevated private estate venue located in Hillsborough’s countryside. Surrounded by 65 acres, it is a perfect wedding venue for couples searching for an elevated experience near Raleigh-Durham. Upon arrival, a quiet forest greets you at the entrance. The entrance opens to a private ceremony courtyard full of luscious greenery and blooming trees. As you walk around to the front of the property sits an intimate garden that can seat 60 guests compared to the courtyard of 300 guests. Furthermore, guests can enjoy a year-round temperature controlled indoor ceremony location, that also serves as the reception area. The soaring ceilings inside the indoor space are flooded with natural light creating a warm ambiance regardless of the hour. For cocktail hour, guests can enjoy the covered veranda surrounded by warmly lit grove trees for an elevated experience.
I had the honor of being a part of an exclusive event at Carolina Grove earlier this spring. Click here to read more about a private ethereal wedding editorial at Carolina Grove.
Baldwin Farms
Nestled on 70 acres of countryside, Baldwin Farms is minutes from Hillsborough’s historic downtown district. Nicknamed “Sunnyside” from the rich history of the land, Baldwin Farms is sure to impress modern day couples searching for countryside elegance. Lush deciduous forests, pastures, rolling Chestnut tree orchards, and 19th-century architecture surround the grounds. The grounds also contain several waterways including Stroud’s Creek, a 2700 sq. foot pond complete with a 20th-century water fountain. There is certainly no shortage of perfect photography options at Baldwin Farms.
The venue offers a private bridal suite and groom’s parlor for couples who are looking for an at-home feeling while getting ready. For couples who enjoy entertaining, a cocktail area provides the perfect elevated lounge experience. The dining area is also complete with full catering capabilities and provides indoor seating for up to 170 guests.
The Colonial Inn
Nested in the heart of Historic Downtown Hillsborough, The Colonial Inn is a boutique wedding venue perfect for indoor and outdoor elegance. Originally built in 1893, and lovingly restored in 2020, The Inn is one of the oldest operating hotels and wedding venues in North Carolina. For a perfect wedding day, The Inn has partnered with the best local small businesses to offer award-winning catering, florals, lighting, bakery items, and spa options.
The Barn at Union Grove Farm
Tucked away in the picturesque countryside of Chapel Hill, The Barn at Union Grove is where timeless elegance meets rustic charm. Built from the ground up by the owners, The Barn at Union Grove is a modern post-and-beam elegant white barn surrounded by vineyards, waterfalls, and gardens for a serene backdrop. The property offers several outdoor ceremony locations and endless photography spots. With over 4000 sq. feet of indoor space, couples can entertain up to 200 guests complete with heat and AC for year round comfort.
The Cloth Mill
Located in the heart of historic Hillsborough, The Cloth Mill is an urban chic wedding and event venue. The unique venue contains exposed brick, cathedral windows, and original wood beams with lots of character. The courtyard holds up to 200 guests while the reception area includes a max capacity of 350 guests.
After reading this blog about the most popular Hillsborough wedding venues, be sure to learn more about additional wedding information and tips below:
- Ethereal Elegance at Carolina Grove
- Nuptials in Historic Downtown Wake Forest
- Where Wilmington Beaches Meet Country Charm at the English Country Barn
- A Spring Engagement at Sycamore Bend
Hey ya’ll! I am Coby, the owner of JoLynn Photography. I serve couples in Raleigh, Wilmington, North Carolina, and destinations worldwide. For couples who want to remember the most beautiful day of their lives in an exquisite way, inquire here today!
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