Imagine your dream wedding day. The sun’s peeking through towering oak trees, casting the most incredible light. Your photographer is taking some pre-ceremony pics of the epic gardens. Your guests are sipping mimosas in front of the charming historic house, and everyone keeps asking, “How did you find this place?”
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Plot twist – this magical spot isn’t in Gastonia. It’s Alexander Homestead, a secret garden oasis just 30 minutes away in Charlotte. I know, I know. You started searching for “wedding venues in Gastonia NC” because it’s close to home. That’s exactly what my best friend did last year. But here’s the thing – she fell head over heels for this hidden gem in Charlotte… keep scrolling to see why!
Location Envy
Here’s something most venues won’t tell you- wedding planning is stressful enough without limiting yourself to one small area. Your guests are already traveling for your wedding, right? So why not give them an unforgettable experience? Charlotte’s got this incredible energy that just can’t be matched. Plus, your out-of-town guests will thank you for choosing a spot near CLT airport!
The Garden Oasis in NC You Never Knew Existed
Picture this – you’re walking through iron gates into a garden that looks like it jumped straight out of a fairytale. That’s Alexander Homestead. But it’s not just a pretty destination (though it’s definitely that). It’s practical too.
What makes AH extra special…
- Actual wedding planners (not just coordinators) included
- Private access to their event venue for up to 215 guests
- That indoor/outdoor flow everyone’s obsessed with
- Getting-ready spaces that look amazing in photos
- A team that handles literally everything down to the wedding cake (no need to wrangle 10+ wedding vendors on your big day)
- A central location in Charlotte close to plenty of accommodations, trending restaurants, and local landmarks
Want to know more about what there is to do in Charlotte? Click below for some inspo. :)
Let’s Talk Planning
Almost all of us know someone who tried to play event planner themselves and ended up so stressed they weren’t even excited about their wedding anymore. That’s exactly what Alexander Homestead prevents.
Here’s the real deal on what’s included:
- Full planning support and flexibility from day one that goes far beyond traditional wedding coordination services
- Vendor coordination and full service amenities (so you’re not playing email tag)
- Beautiful wedding ceremony and reception sites with historic architecture and garden backdrops
- Chic layout design that’s actually functional
- Setup and cleanup (your wedding party will love this one)
- Catering and beverage services (think unforgettable dining experience over cold banquet hall buffet)
Charlotte vs. Wedding Venues in Gaston County
|
What You Get |
Charlotte |
Gastonia |
|
Hotels and Rentals |
Tons, from budget to luxury |
Mainly budget-friendly |
|
Restaurant Scene |
World-class |
Limited options |
|
Airport Access |
15 minutes |
45+ minutes |
|
Entertainment |
Myriad of options |
Few wedding event venues and activities |
The Fun Stuff | Where to Celebrate
Because let’s be honest, your wedding celebration should be more than just one day!
|
Time |
Spot |
Why I Love It |
|
Morning After |
Ruby Sunshine |
Best hangover cure breakfast |
|
Lunch |
Something for everyone |
|
|
Dinner |
Supperland |
Pure luxury |
|
Late Night |
Amazing vibes |
Q’s You Might Be Thinking About
“But what about our hometown friends? Would Gastonia wedding venues be easier?”
They’re already planning to drive to your wedding! And honestly, the Charlotte skyline views make for way better photos.
Distance By The Numbers
- Charlotte Uptown to Gastonia – 23 miles
- Alexander Homestead to Gastonia – 21 miles
- Driving time from Gastonia – 25-30 minutes
- CLT Airport to Alexander Homestead – 8 miles
- Distance to nearest hotels – 0.5 miles
- Distance to Charlotte’s top restaurants – 1-3 miles
Pro Tip: Your guests are likely traveling much further than 21 miles to celebrate with you. Over 60% of Charlotte wedding guests typically travel from out of state – making the CLT airport’s proximity a huge plus!
The Drive Breakdown
- I-85 route – 21 miles (fastest)
- US-29 route – 24 miles (scenic)
- Wilkinson Blvd route – 22 miles (most direct)
“Is spring the best time to get married in North Carolina?”
The gardens are stunning year-round, but spring and fall are magical. Though I once saw a December wedding here that looked like a winter wonderland!
|
Season |
Avg Temp (°F) |
Chance of Rain |
Garden Blooms |
Notable Features |
Booking Demand |
|
Spring (Mar-May) |
65-75° |
25% |
Peak bloom |
Azaleas, dogwoods |
Very High |
|
Summer (Jun-Aug) |
80-90° |
35% |
Lush greenery |
Evening light until 8:30pm |
Moderate |
|
Fall (Sep-Nov) |
65-75° |
20% |
Fall colors |
Perfect outdoor temps |
Highest |
|
Winter (Dec-Feb) |
45-55° |
30% |
Winter botanicals |
Cozy barn atmosphere |
Lower |
“What if it rains?”
The indoor space is just as gorgeous as outside. I’ve seen few rainy day weddings here but they were still absolutely breathtaking.
“How do most couples style this venue?”
It’s honestly like a blank canvas. I’ve seen:
- Modern minimalist designs
- Romantic garden vibes
- Vintage-inspired setups
- Even a few gorgeous boho weddings
“What are the most common venue types in NC?”
You’ll most commonly find hotel ballrooms, farmhouses, chapels, and banquet hall wedding venues like Pleasant Grove Farm, Esquire Hotel, Bansen Farms, and Gaston Country Club. It’s rare to find a garden venue in such an urban area like Charlotte, so AH really stands out.
“Do you host any other events?”
Yes, we host corporate fundraising events, holiday parties and top-knotch networking conferences when we’re not helping couples exchange their vows in style! 🤝
The Ultimate Guest Experience
Your guests will appreciate the…
- Easy airport access
- Hotels for every budget
- Tons of weekend activities
- Amazing restaurants
- Rideshare availability everywhere
See You in Charlotte!
Searching for wedding venues is overwhelming. But when you find the right place, you just know.
Why not come see Alexander Homestead for yourself? The gardens are prettiest in the morning light, and I bet you’ll feel that same magic my best friend did. Sometimes the perfect venue is worth a short drive.
Come for a morning tour, then make a day of exploring Charlotte. You might just fall in love with more than just the venue! 🧳✨
