Picturesque North Carolina City Named Most Affordable Wedding Destination
Weddings are expensive. The venue, the flowers, the reception including food and drinks, gifts for your wedding party and family, and about a hundred other “needs”. The price can skyrocket…

Weddings are expensive. The venue, the flowers, the reception including food and drinks, gifts for your wedding party and family, and about a hundred other "needs". The price can skyrocket quickly. So anyway to do it cheaper (without being or looking cheap) is a blessing. Which is why it's great news that a local North Carolina city was named as the most affordable wedding destination nationwide.
And it's a great place for a wedding! I've actually been a part of one in this city- Asheville. The Blue Ridge Mountains are a stunning backdrop for a wedding and are sure to generate impeccable photos.
This data comes to us from our friends at the family-owned fine jeweler Shane Co. They conducted research to "uncover the most and least expensive cities for weddings in the US". They also identified the most award-winning cities for weddings in 2024.
Asheville crowned the most affordable wedding destination in the US
Here is the average cost of weddings in the destination cities studied:
Rank | City | Average cost |
1 | Asheville | $23,285 |
2 | Sedona | $24,043 |
3 | Tampa | $26,977 |
4 | Louisville | $27,359 |
5 | Nashville | $27,853 |
6 | Kansas City | $28,001 |
7 | St. Louis | $28,059 |
8 | Cincinnati | $28,471 |
9 | Las Vegas | $28,573 |
10 | New Orleans | $29,121 |
So if you're looking for an affordable wedding destination perhaps Asheville is the place for you. Thanks to our friends at Shane Co. for sharing their research with us. You can read the full study including information about award-winning wedding vendors as well as trends here.
North Carolina Town One of the Best Cheap Honeymoon Destinations
Are you planning your wedding and not sure where to go for a honeymoon destination? Some people enjoy the lavish, out-of-the-country experiences while others just want to save money and enjoy time with one another. Either way, determining your honeymoon destination can be a job on its own. Ever wondered if North Carolina would be the perfect spot for your honeymoon destination? Well, you might want to consider it.
U.S. News & World Report says there are 12 best places to honeymoon in the U.S. to save some money. And what do you know, one North Carolina town made that list. Your first vacation as spouses should be something special between the both of you and sometimes that does not always require a lot of money. Enjoy your honeymoon right here in the U.S. and not only save money but still have a great time as newlyweds. Check out this list of the 12 best cheap honeymoon destinations in the country.
12. San Antonio
If you love birds enjoy rich history and Tex-Mex, then head to San Antonio. Learn about the historic culture, eat great food, and head to the River Walk for a good time with locals and other tourists.
11. Tucson
For the newlyweds who enjoy the peace of the desert, Tucson might be the place for you. Enjoy recreational activities like hiking and biking or stay at one of the city's resorts to lay out by the pool and soak up the sun together.
10. Gatlinburg
Rent a cabin and enjoy some time in Gatlinburg with your spouse. Mountain views, animals, fire pits, relaxation, parks, and so much more adventure waiting for you and your partner.
9. Yellowstone
Enjoy the views at Yellowstone and lay out with your spouse to watch the stars. Be adventurous and ride horses and go fishing or relax and get massages, sip wine, and get a place with a great pool or hot tub view to soak up time with each other.
8. St. Augustine
Of course, you should head to Florida and enjoy some time. This romantic, historic spot will be a great honeymoon destination. Stroll down the cobblestone streets, lay out on the beach, enjoy the sun, and spend some great QT together.
7. OUTER BANKS!!
Come on now, North Carolina had to make the list right? And where else to go, but the Outer Banks. Head to Nags Head and enjoy time out on the beach in this tranquil town. There is great food, historical spots, tons of beaches to enjoy, and so much more when you head to the OBX.
6. Grand Canyon
Reach the top of the Grand Canyon and take your marriage to new heights. Walk around and explore the view, capture the great moments, and enjoy time with one another.
5. The Finger Lakes
Head to New York and try something outside of the city like Finger Lakes! Enjoy the outdoors, sip some wine, and enjoy the romantic vibes with your spouse.
4. Monterey
Head to Monterey and enjoy the natural beauty of the area and your spouse's face. The sandy white beaches along the California coast call for the perfect destination. Plenty of free and cheap things for the both of you to enjoy.
3. Martha's Vineyard
Seriously, you had to know this would make the list. Spend some time at Martha's Vineyard and stroll through this amazing town. Enjoy the discounted hotels, possible celebrity sightings, great food, and even better drinks to sip on while you explore the area.
2. Glacier National Park
Ever thought about a national park for a honeymoon destination? Here is your chance. Head to Glacier National Park and enjoy a camping experience like no other. Snuggle up with your partner if you decide to rent a tent, check out the views, and truly connect on this nature destination.
1. Ogunquit
Head to Maine for the No. 1 best cheap honeymoon destination. View or rent one of their impressive boats to soak up the sun for the day. Be sure to head outside to catch the sunrise and sunset with your spouse and explore this little town in Maine.