Unique Wedding Photos with Asheville's Beer Culture
Asheville, North Carolina, is renowned for its vibrant craft beer culture, breathtaking scenery, and a thriving wedding industry. For couples planning their wedding in Asheville, embracing the local craft beer scene can add a unique and memorable touch to their special day. In this blog, we'll explore how you can incorporate Asheville's craft beer culture into your wedding photography, capturing moments that celebrate your love and the spirit of this charming city. Get ready to raise a glass and say cheers to creative and one-of-a-kind wedding photos!
Choosing the Right Breweries:
Asheville boasts an array of exceptional craft breweries, each with its own distinct atmosphere and character. When incorporating Asheville's craft beer culture into your wedding photos, consider visiting breweries that align with your vision and preferences. Here are a few tips to guide you:
Research Local Breweries: Take the time to research and visit different breweries in Asheville. Consider their ambiance, architectural elements, outdoor spaces, and unique features that can provide an interesting backdrop for your wedding photos.
Consult with Your Photographer: Discuss your ideas and preferences with your Asheville wedding photographer. They can offer insights and recommendations based on their familiarity with the local breweries and their experience capturing memorable shots in these settings.
Plan Ahead: Reach out to the breweries you're interested in and inquire about their policies regarding wedding photography sessions. Some breweries may require advance notice or have specific guidelines in place. By planning ahead, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Pre-Wedding Brewery Visit: Before your wedding day, consider scheduling a pre-wedding visit to the selected breweries with your Asheville wedding photographer. This visit serves multiple purposes:
Scouting Locations: Explore the breweries together, identifying areas that offer visually appealing backgrounds and natural lighting for your wedding photos. Look for unique features such as beer barrels, taprooms, outdoor seating areas, or murals that can add character to your shots.
Building Rapport: A pre-wedding visit allows you to establish a rapport with the brewery staff. Introduce yourselves and explain your plans for incorporating the brewery into your wedding photos. This can foster a cooperative atmosphere on the actual wedding day and ensure that everyone is prepared for the photography session.
Test Shots: Take the opportunity to capture some test shots during the pre-wedding visit. This helps your photographer understand the lighting conditions and allows you to see how the chosen brewery translates into photographs. It also provides an opportunity to make any necessary adjustments or fine-tune your vision.
Creative Brewery Shots on Your Wedding Day:
On your wedding day, leverage the charm and character of Asheville's craft breweries to create unique and memorable photos. Here are some ideas to inspire your brewery-themed wedding shots:
Raise a Toast: Capture moments of joy and celebration as you raise a glass of craft beer in a toast. Whether it's the two of you, your wedding party, or even your entire guest list, these candid shots will showcase the fun and relaxed atmosphere of the brewery.
Behind the Scenes: Go behind the scenes and showcase the craft beer-making process. Your photographer can capture shots of brewers working their magic, the brewing equipment, or the barrels filled with delicious beer. These shots add an element of authenticity to your wedding album and highlight the craftsmanship behind Asheville's craft beer scene.
Beer Flight Adventure: Embrace the variety of flavors by incorporating a beer flight into your photos. Arrange a display of different beer samples on a rustic wooden tray or barrel and capture shots of you and your partner enjoying the tasting experience. These shots add a playful and interactive element to your wedding photos.
Outdoor Brews: Take advantage of the outdoor spaces offered by many breweries in Asheville. Pose amidst beer garden settings, surrounded by lush greenery or under twinkling string lights. These outdoor shots can evoke a relaxed and romantic ambiance, showcasing the fusion of nature and craft beer culture.
Brewpub Backdrops: Explore the taprooms and interior spaces of the breweries. Utilize the stylish bar areas, unique wall art, or cozy seating corners as backdrops for intimate portraits or group shots. These shots capture the essence of the brewery's atmosphere and create visually interesting compositions.
Brewery Landmarks: Some breweries in Asheville have iconic landmarks or architectural features that can make for stunning photo opportunities. Whether it's a distinctive brewery sign, a rooftop patio with panoramic views, or a historic building, incorporate these landmarks into your photos to create memorable and visually captivating images.
Considerations:
When incorporating Asheville's craft beer culture into your wedding photography, it's important to prioritize safety and respect the guidelines set by the breweries. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Obtain Necessary Permissions: Before conducting your photography session, ensure that you have obtained the necessary permissions from the breweries. Some breweries may have specific guidelines or restrictions for photography, particularly during business hours. Respect their rules and work closely with your photographer to plan the session accordingly.
Prioritize Guest Experience: While capturing unique brewery shots is exciting, remember to balance it with the overall guest experience. Ensure that your guests have ample space and comfort during the photography session, especially if it takes place in a smaller or more crowded brewery setting.
Suggestions for Breweries for your wedding in Asheville
Here are some exceptional picks for your wedding day, each chosen for their unique blend of Asheville's craft beer excellence and their enchanting venue atmospheres. These breweries stand out not only for their quality brews but also for their distinctive charm and character, offering a memorable backdrop for your special celebration. Their captivating settings ensure a blend of romance and local Asheville flair, making your celebration truly one-of-a-kind.
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Esteemed as Asheville's original craft brewery, Highland Brewing Company brings a blend of tradition and modernity to your wedding day. The spacious beer hall and rooftop bar, with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, are perfect for celebrations of all sizes, offering both grandeur and intimacy.
Event Center & Rooftop: The Event Center at Highland Brewing offers a tri-level space featuring soaring ceilings, large windows, and a stage with audio-visual equipment. It also includes a rooftop bar, perfect for outdoor events, showcasing mountain views and sunsets.
Capacity:
Standing/Partially Seated: Up to 350 guests
Seated Dinner: Up to 300 guests
Theater Seating: Up to 250 guests
The Barrel Room: This space features a more intimate setting with racks of barrels, skylights, a private patio, a catering kitchen, and a private bar. It's ideal for smaller gatherings.
Capacity:
Standing/Partially Seated: Up to 100 guests
Seated Dinner: Up to 80 guests
Ceremony Seating with Reception Hall: Up to 64 guests
Pricing: The rental fees for these spaces vary based on the season, day of the week, and the specific area you need for your event. Generally, the rental fees range from $1,500 to $6,500 for 4-6 hours of event time. Additional hours can be arranged at a cost of $250 per hour. The venue provides seating for up to 275 guests, along with bar staff, audio-visual support, and an event coordinator as part of the rental.
Other Details: Highland Brewing does not cater or offer food service, which means you have the flexibility to hire your preferred caterer. They focus on craftsmanship and quality in both their beer and events, and they offer a range of their own brews, cider, wine, prosecco, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Remember, these details are subject to change, and it's always best to contact the venue directly for the most up-to-date information and to confirm availability for your specific dates
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This brewery is a testament to craft and sustainability. The majestic brew kettles, verdant gardens, and a grand taproom provide a sophisticated setting for your nuptials. The outdoor amphitheater, overlooking the mountains, is ideal for larger weddings, providing a breathtaking natural backdrop.
Capacity:
The Lounge area within the High Gravity space can accommodate up to 48 guests for a seated dinner or 60 for a mix & mingle celebration.
The entire High Gravity space can host up to 200 guests for a seated dinner and 350 for a mix & mingle event.
For more detailed pricing information and to discuss specific arrangements for your wedding, it's best to contact Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. directly. They have onsite event specialists who can provide you with the most current and detailed information for planning your special day at their venue
Additionally, the Sierra Nevada Taproom is a central feature of the brewery, offering an experimental 20-barrel pilot brewhouse that supplies limited rotating drafts exclusive to the restaurant. This could be an interesting aspect for guests during your wedding. The venue also offers outdoor dining and live music at their large Amphitheater, which can be an added attraction for your wedding event
Please reach out to Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. for the latest information on availability, pricing, and specific services they offer for weddings.
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Set along the French Broad River, this venue offers a serene and picturesque environment for your wedding. The Liquid Center tasting room and the expansive lawn area provide a relaxed and scenic setting, perfect for a riverside ceremony or reception.
For your wedding at New Belgium Brewing Company in Asheville, they offer several venue options, each with different capacities to suit various event sizes:
Brewhouse: This space can accommodate up to 200 guests. It's a versatile area suitable for larger gatherings.
Lower Brewhouse Patio: Also with a capacity of up to 200 guests, this outdoor setting provides a more relaxed atmosphere.
Liquid Center Riverview Deck: A more intimate space, it can host up to 75 guests and offers scenic river views.
Front Lawn 20' x 20' Tent: For small gatherings, this outdoor tent space can accommodate 30 guests.
Booking requires at least a 3-week notice prior to the event, subject to availability. For specific pricing details and to make reservations, you should contact New Belgium Brewing Company directly. The contact information and more details about their private event spaces can be found on their website
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If you're seeking a venue with a bold and creative edge, Bhramari Brewing Company is your go-to. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative beer offerings, this brewery adds a playful and colorful dimension to your wedding celebration, ideal for more intimate and unconventional weddings.
Check out their website for more information!
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Infused with history and character, Green Man Brewery, one of Asheville's oldest, offers a timeless charm. The multi-level "Greenmansion" provides a classic and cozy setting, ideal for couples looking for a blend of historic ambiance and contemporary comfort.
Green Man Brewery in Asheville offers several spaces for private events, including wedding rehearsals, receptions, and company parties. They have the following options:
Entire 3rd Floor of the Green Mansion: This space can accommodate up to 150 people and includes a private bar, an outside covered patio with heaters, and a view of Asheville’s South Slope and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Outside Patio of the Green Mansion: Suitable for up to 40 people, this space has a heated covered patio and a 55” television.
Conference Room in the Green Mansion: Ideal for up to 30 people, it includes a conference table, seating, a 65” television, and windows overlooking Asheville’s South Slope.
Dirty Jack's Event Spaces: The original Green Man’s taproom, Dirty Jack’s, fits up to 50 people and includes a private bar, an outside covered patio, and multiple televisions. An additional outside patio at Dirty Jack's can fit up to 30 people and is fully fenced for privacy.
For specific pricing and to book an event, it's recommended to contact Green Man Brewery directly via their website.
Finally,
Incorporating Asheville's craft beer culture into your wedding photography provides a distinctive and memorable touch to your special day. By choosing the right breweries, scheduling a pre-wedding visit, and planning creative shots, you can capture the essence of Asheville's vibrant craft beer scene while celebrating your love. Remember to prioritize safety, obtain necessary permissions, and ensure a positive guest experience during the photography session. Cheers to a wedding album filled with unique and cherished moments that perfectly blend the love you share with the spirit of Asheville's craft beer culture.