Things to do During a Wedding Weekend in NC
Things to do during a wedding weekend like archery
Things to do During a Wedding Weekend in the NC foothills of Alexander County
When we talk about the NC mountains, we must include the foothills. There are so many fun and interesting things to do during your wedding weekend that we thought we would pull together some favorites. As a premier wedding venue, Redbird Ridge Estate serves the NC mountains and the foothills. Redbird Ridge Estate stands out as a great option for a unique venue in the foothills of North Carolina, just an hour from Charlotte, thanks to its blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and personalized experiences. Nestled at the base of Barrett Mountain and surrounded by 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, ponds, and breathtaking mountain views, the estate offers an intimate and picturesque setting that feels both secluded and special. The estate’s commitment to intentional hospitality and creating unforgettable moments ensures your wedding will be as meaningful and memorable as your love. Follow us on Instagram to see recent weddings.
If you are still on the hunt for a wedding venue, check out all that Redbird Ride Estate has to offer, including a beautiful setting to enjoy nature and outdoor activities during a wedding weekend. The estate itself features charming accommodations and serene natural surroundings including a pond, perfect for relaxing walks and photos.
Outdoor Activities on Redbird Ridge Estate
Imagine stepping into a world where endless blue skies meet rolling meadows, and every moment feels like it was made just for you. At Redbird Ridge Estate, outdoor adventures and serene escapes unfold in the most idyllic setting—perfect for a wedding weekend you and your loved ones will never forget.
Pond Area
Unwind by the tranquil pond nestled behind the historic cabin. Here, time slows and laughter carries across the water. Whether you’re stealing away for a quiet morning stroll during your wedding weekend, gathering with close friends for a heartfelt toast, or capturing enchanted forest photos beneath the trees, this magical spot makes ordinary moments extraordinary during a wedding weekend.
Elevated Hiking
Craving a taste of adventure? Hike up Barrett’s Mountain to discover the estate’s highest meadow. The trek is rewarded with sweeping, cinematic views of the Brushy Mountains—an absolutely picture-perfect backdrop, ideal for a sunset proposal shoot or a joyful, just-married celebration with your bridal party.
Firepit Gatherings
As dusk settles, watch the day melt away from the cozy firepit beside the Cabin. The scent of woodsmoke lingers as the stars awaken overhead. Snuggle close with friends and family, reliving stories, sharing s’mores, and basking in the warm glow and laughter that only fireside nights can inspire.
Luxury Picnics
Elevate your outdoor experience with a luxury picnic on the estate’s lush lawns or scenic meadows. Imagine plush blankets, elegant décor, and curated gourmet table scapes —whether it’s a romantic lunch for two overlooking the valley, a cheerful brunch with friends by the pond, or a post-hike feast with sweeping mountain views. Each picnic is carefully arranged for comfort and style, blending natural beauty with thoughtful luxury. Savor artisanal treats and local delicacies, toast with sparkling drinks, and relax as the gentle mountain breeze completes your unforgettable al fresco affair during your wedding weekend.
Spirited Play and Excitement
Tree Swing: During your wedding weekend, feel pure, carefree joy swinging out over the grass, with the breeze in your hair and the mountains in view—an Instagram-worthy moment that brings a spontaneous smile at any age.
Axe Throwing: Unleash your inner lumberjack! Try your hand at axe throwing and cheer on your friends in a uniquely rustic challenge that always sparks unforgettable memories.
Archery: If you’ve ever dreamed of loosing an arrow across an open field, bring your bow and arrows and prove your skills at the estate’s dedicated targets—set up for fun and competition in equal measure. Bring your own bow and arrows. We supply the targets during your wedding weekend.
Shooting Range: For those seeking a true sporting experience, Redbird Ridge offers a shooting range stretching up to 600 yards. Bring your equipment and revel in the thrill of precision shooting against mountain views. This is an add-on wedding weekend experience and requires waivers.
No matter what draws you outdoors—adrenaline, connection, or quiet reflection—Redbird Ridge Estate turns every activity into something unforgettable. Here, surrounded by nature’s splendor, the journey is just as magical as the destination.
While the wedding festivities at Redbird Ridge Estate will be the highlight, Taylorsville and the surrounding Alexander County offer plenty of charming experiences and things to do for couples and guests to enjoy during their wedding weekend. Here are some great things to do on a wedding weekend in the NC foothills:
Explore Nature and Scenic Spots
Rocky Face Mountain Recreational Area in Hiddenite offers hiking, picnic areas, and rock climbing. This nature escape offers peaceful moments and great photo opportunities.
Matheson Park, Dusty Ridge Park and Bethlehem Park: These local parks provide lovely walking trails, picnic areas, and green spaces for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
Deal Orchards: Visit this roadside farm market to pick fresh apples, peaches, nectarines, and Asian pears (seasonal). The farm store also offers apple cider, honey, jams, and other local treats—perfect for a casual outing or gift shopping.
Experience Local Charm and Culture
Antique Shops: Among things to do during your wedding weekend is antique shopping! Who doesn’t like to treasure hunt? Treasure Cove Antique Mall, West Main Antiques, Stony Creek Vintage, Road Market Antiques, Remember When, and The Sweet Vintage Chic Boutique. Browse through vintage and antique treasures in these quaint shops, ideal for couples and guests who appreciate history and unique finds.
Alexander County Apple Festival in October: If your wedding weekend coincides with this beloved local event, enjoy live music, craft booths, food vendors, and family-friendly activities that showcase the area's heritage and community spirit for things to do during your wedding weekend.
Hiddenite Celebration of the Arts in September, a tradition that showcases the creativity, heritage, and community spirit of Alexander County featuring live music, food vendors, craft booths, children’s activities, and much more.
Relax and Rejuvenate
Several massage therapists are located right in Taylorsville. Deep Kneads Massage & Bodywork, Golden Vine Massage, and Serenity Facials and Massage. Treat yourself to a massage or facial to unwind before or after the wedding celebrations. These local wellness spots offer soothing treatments to help guests feel refreshed.
For a true escape, check out The Spa at Rock Barn. It’s more than just a spa, it’s more of a resort like oasis offering a saltwater indoor heated pool, indoor and outdoor grottos, whirlpools, a cold plunge, steam room, saunas and fully stocked locker rooms.
Unique Experiences and Entertainment
Horse Drawn Carriage Rides: Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride by Carolina Carriage Company through nearby scenic areas for a memorable experience that complements the elegance of a wedding weekend at Redbird Ridge Estate.
Brushy Mountain Golf Club: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at this nearby upscale club with beautiful views and dining options.
Thrill-seekers can enjoy off-road excitement at Brushy Mountain Motor Sports Park. The trails are designed, built and maintained for dirt bike, sport quad, 4X4 quad and Side X Side riders. The park consists of over 1,700 acres with over 100 miles of trails for dirt bikes nestled in the beautiful Brushy Mountains of North Carolina.
Visitors can engage in paintball and airsoft competitions at Command Decisions Wargames Center in Bethlehem. They offer exciting game scenarios, quality equipment, and a friendly team ready to guide your every step.
Live Music
During the summers, live music is offered by the Alexander County Summer Concert Series, featuring outdoor performances on the Rotary Performance Stage in downtown Taylorsville. This year’s family-friendly concert series features the Caribbean Chillers (Jimmy Buffett tribute), Tribute – A Celebration of The Allman Brothers Band and Eliminator (ZZ Top tribute), followed by fireworks at Alexander Central High School.
If you liked this blog, then check out this one: Nature Lovers Guide to a Unique Proposal.
Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 22 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.
Contact Us to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!
For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Redbird Ridge Estate:
Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this Wedding Venue Map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!
Top 5 Affordable Engagement Ring Stores Online
Find an affordable engagement ring online
Affordable Wedding Ring Stores
As a Charlotte wedding venue owner at Redbird Ridge Estate, I get the opportunity to see ALOT of engagement rings when couples come to visit on a tour. My personal engagement ring was chosen from an online seller - and it was VERY affordable and it’s stunning!
If you're searching for the best wedding venue in the Charlotte area or a versatile and accommodating event space in Alexander County, make sure you check out Redbird Ridge Estate.
Finding a stunning engagement ring doesn’t have to mean draining your savings. Today’s best online jewelers offer breathtaking designs at prices that fit almost any budget, with many styles under $1,000 and even lower for alternative stones or metals. Below are the top five online stores where you’ll find the most beautiful yet affordable engagement rings, based on expert recommendations and recent editor picks.
1. Modern Gents Trading Co.
Modern Gents Trading Co. offers some of the most affordable engagement rings online, featuring beautiful diamond alternatives and unique engagement ring designs for every style and budget. Many are under $200. Their collection features premium 925 sterling silver with rhodium or rose gold plating, and a wide range of trending and classic styles-from vintage-inspired emerald cuts to modern solitaires and halo rings. Despite the low prices, the rings are designed for durability and lasting beauty, and the store offers perks like conflict-free stones, a lifetime warranty, free shipping, and easy returns. Popular styles include The Evermore, The Elena, and The Bliss, all priced below $200 and praised for their sparkle and craftsmanship.
2. Blue Nile
Blue Nile provides a wide selection of diamond engagement rings and custom engagement ring settings, making it easy to shop engagement rings online and find the perfect ring for your proposal. Blue Nile is a leader in the online jewelry space, known for its vast selection, customization options, and competitive pricing. You can find beautiful engagement rings starting well below the national average, especially if you opt for lab-grown diamonds or moissanite. Their catalog includes everything from timeless solitaires to intricate vintage-inspired designs, with frequent sales and discounts on settings. Blue Nile’s customer support and virtual advisors make the buying process easy and reassuring for first-time shoppers.
3. Brilliant Earth
Brilliant Earth offers ethically sourced, customizable engagement rings with ring settings starting around $520 and lab-grown diamond engagement rings from $310. Their ready-to-ship engagement rings start at $1,890, but you can design your own unique engagement ring for less by selecting smaller center stones or alternative gemstones such as sapphire, emerald, or moissanite. The brand is renowned for its modern, vintage-inspired, and nature-inspired engagement ring designs, as well as its commitment to sustainable and conflict-free diamond rings. Frequent promotions and a wide selection of affordable engagement rings make it easy to find a stunning, ethical engagement ring that fits your budget and personal style.
4. James Allen
James Allen is a leading online jeweler specializing in a vast selection of conflict-free diamond engagement rings, moissanite engagement rings, and gemstone engagement rings. Their user-friendly website allows you to shop engagement rings online and view each diamond in stunning 360° HD, with up to 40x magnification, so you can confidently choose the perfect engagement ring for your proposal. James Allen offers affordable engagement rings in both classic and trendy styles, and frequent sales can bring prices down by up to 35% on select lab-grown diamond engagement rings. Their exceptional customer service and industry-leading customization options make it easy to design your own engagement ring and find a beautiful, high-quality ring that fits your style and budget
5. Kay Jewelers Outlet
Kay Jewelers Outlet is a leading online destination for affordable engagement rings, offering deep discounts on top brand-name diamond engagement rings and lab-grown diamond engagement rings. Their extensive selection includes engagement rings in a variety of precious metals such as white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold, with many beautiful engagement ring styles available for under $1,000 thanks to frequent clearance events and sales. Kay Outlet features both traditional and contemporary engagement ring designs, including solitaire, halo, and three-stone settings, all crafted with ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones. Every engagement ring purchase is backed by a lifetime guarantee and easy returns, providing extra peace of mind for online engagement ring shoppers
You don’t need to sacrifice style or quality to find an affordable engagement ring. These five online stores consistently deliver beautiful, high-quality rings at prices well below the national average. Whether you’re looking for a modern showstopper, a vintage-inspired piece, or a minimalist classic, you’ll find a ring that fits your love story - and your budget - at one of these trusted retailers.
Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 22 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.
Contact Us to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!
For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Redbird Ridge Estate:
Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this Wedding Venue Map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!
https://www.centuryfarmsohio.com/
https://roughandreadyvineyards.com/
https://www.thegatheringplaceil.com/
https://www.theballroomatparklane.com/
http://montagumeadows.com/
https://rusticgracebarn.com/
https://www.izenstone.com/
https://www.thebougainvilleas.com/
https://www.evergreenranchweddingvenue.com/
https://hiddenspringsvenue.com/
Find these stores:
Modern Gents Trading Co.
3195 Red Hill Avenue, Suite C
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
https://www.modgents.com
Blue Nile
35 W 50th Street
New York, NY 98007
https://www.bluenile.com/engagement-rings
Brilliant Earth
26 O'Farrell St., Floor 10
San Francisco, CA 94108-5832
https://www.brilliantearth.com/
James Allen
551 5th Avenue, Suite #601
New York, NY 10176
https://www.jamesallen.com/
Kay Jewelers Outlet
Sterling Jewelers Inc.
375 Ghent Road
Akron, OH 44333
https://www.kay.com/
Redbird Ridge Estate is a distinguished venue that combines breathtaking natural surroundings, historic charm, and thoughtful hospitality to create unforgettable experiences for weddings, events, retreats, and personal renewal. Contact us today 704.317.9036