Wilmington, NC Wedding Locations: From Hidden Gems to Local Buzz

By Happily Ever Elopements

Dec 2025

When it comes to planning your wedding, whether you’re eloping or having a larger celebration, choosing a location is one of the first steps you’ll make. Known for its coastal beauty and historic charm, Wilmington, North Carolina offers a wedding location for each & every type of couple - from the adventurous and outdoorsy to the classic and traditional. 

At Happily Ever Elopements, we are passionate about helping couples create weddings that feel authentic, intentional, and true to you. Here are just a few of the Wilmington-area locations our couples love, along with why each might be the perfect for your celebration.

Photographer: Sydni Media

1. Fort Fisher

Fort Fisher is an ideal choice for couples who dream of ocean views without the crowds often found at more central beaches. Surrounded by wildlife and expansive coastal landscapes, this area offers a raw, untamed beauty that feels peaceful and grounding—perfect for intimate ceremonies rooted in nature.

One of Fort Fisher’s greatest strengths is its versatility. Within a short distance, you’ll find beachfront ceremony spots, winding boardwalks along the river, and shaded areas framed by oak trees. This variety allows couples to create a dynamic experience while still keeping things simple and connected.

Pro tip: Schedule your ceremony at sunrise or on a weekday to enjoy the quietest, most intimate atmosphere.

2. Shell Island Resort

Photographer: Jen Z Photography

Located on the north end of Wrightsville Beach, Shell Island Resort offers sweeping oceanfront views paired with a semi-private feel that’s hard to find along the coast. With both beachfront and marshland surroundings, it creates a serene, elevated backdrop for elopements and micro-weddings alike.

This location is especially well-suited for couples hosting guests or a wedding party on-site. Having accommodations and ceremony space in one place allows for a relaxed flow to the day, giving everyone time to truly soak in the experience rather than rushing from one location to another.

Pro tip: Coordinate ceremony timing with the tides to make the most of your beachfront space.

Photographer: Leigh Roberts Photography

3. Wrightsville Beach

A true coastal classic, Wrightsville Beach is loved for its vibrant sunrises, soft golden sunsets, and laid-back beach energy. It’s an excellent option for elopements and small ceremonies that prioritize simplicity, connection, and an easygoing vibe.

The south end of Wrightsville Beach offers beautiful dunes, winding pathways, and slightly more privacy than some of the busier access points. With thoughtful timing, couples can enjoy a stunning beach ceremony while keeping the experience calm and unrushed.

Pro tip: Avoid peak hours—especially midday on weekends—for easier parking. Free parking is available during the winter season from November through February.

4. The Elia

Photographer: Atlanta Dahlia Photography

The Elia has started local buzz and gained popularity as a top Wilmington wedding venue for a reason.

For couples seeking an indoor venue with character and polish, The Elia offers industrial-chic elegance in a prime downtown Wilmington location. Its proximity to local hotels and the Riverwalk makes it incredibly convenient for guests while still feeling intimate and elevated.

Family-owned and operated, The Elia is known for its attentive staff and thoughtful on-site amenities. It’s an ideal choice for couples who love the idea of riverfront views but prefer the peace of mind that comes with a weather-proof setting.

Photographer: Trinity Tolbert Photography

5. Airlie Gardens

Whimsically romantic and undeniably iconic, Airlie Gardens is one of Wilmington’s most beloved wedding locations. With its lush landscapes, seasonal blooms, and winding pathways, it offers breathtaking natural beauty that feels both timeless and enchanting.

Airlie is well-suited for a wide range of celebration sizes—from intimate elopements to larger gatherings—making it a flexible option for couples with evolving plans. The stunning Southern live oaks draped in Spanish moss create soft, dreamy light that’s especially beautiful for memorable photographs.

In Short,

When choosing a venue, consider not only beautiful backdrops, but also cost, convenience, and finding a place with a vibe that fits you.

You truly cannot go wrong with any of these Wilmington locations, and this is just the beginning of a long list of lovely places to get married here. Have an idea of your own or a private residence in mind? We love coordinating weddings in new locations and can’t wait to hear about yours!

— Happily Ever Elopements