I’m thrilled that you’re planning to get married at Airlie Gardens.
If you’re still handling legal marriage steps first, start here: How to Get Married in Wilmington, NC
That guide covers the New Hanover Register of Deeds, marriage license requirements, and courthouse process.
Airlie Gardens wedding quick facts
- Location: Wilmington, NC
- Best fit: Garden ceremony with a planner/coordinator
- Typical setup: Ceremony-focused, then reception elsewhere (or limited reception window)
- Important: Confirm current policy directly with Airlie before booking vendors
Here’s a step-by-step guide
- Contact Airlie Gardens at 910-798-7705
- Tour the gardens
- Select your date and package
- Obtain the necessary permits and documents
- Finalize the details and vendors
- Plan your ceremony and reception
- Congrats! you’ve just got married at Airlie Gardens!
Here’s what you need to know:
- It costs $1000/hr for a ceremony at Airlie Gardens
- They require you to have a wedding planner or a day of coordinator
For inspiration photos of Airlie Gardens, click here.
Initial inquiry and recommendations
Start by reaching out to Airlie Gardens to inquire about available dates and wedding packages. You can contact them via phone or email to check availability and schedule a tour of the venue.
You can send them an email, call them directly at 910-798-7705
Tour the Garden
Take a tour of the gardens to explore the stunning locations for your ceremony and reception. Airlie Gardens offers various picturesque spots, including the famous Airlie Oak, the Pergola Garden, and the Bradley Creek Overlook.
My recommendation is getting married in front of the Airlie Oak!
Note: please refrain from smoking + vaping in the park
Select your date and package
Once you’ve found your perfect spot, secure your wedding date by booking a package that suits your needs. Airlie Gardens offers customizable packages that include venue rental, ceremony setup, and more.
Note:
- You’ll need to select a vendors that are pre-approved by Airlie Gardens
- They do provide recommended vendors that have worked with them before
- Must have a General Liability Insurance minimum of $1,000,000
- Airlie Gardens will continue to operate(9AM-5PM) if booked within business hours.
Rentals
They do not provide chairs or tents. They can provide you a list of approved rental companies. However its unclear what their floral policies are.
Caterers
You’ll also need to go through their recommended caterers. Please be mindful that this garden is highly managed by the staffs who work really hard to maintain it. Don’t just bring alcohol to the garden.
Plan your ceremony
Create a timeline for your wedding day, including the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Consider incorporating personal touches and special elements to make your celebration truly unforgettable.
Get married!
Finally, on your big day, soak in every moment as you exchange vows surrounded by the beauty of Airlie Gardens.
How much does it cost to get married in Airlie Gardens?
Rental Times & Fees
There’s a Damage Deposit which Refundable - $1,000
Security Fee if you opt for Receptions - $400
Weekday Ceremonies
They only schedule ceremonies during the weekday with a maximum of 100 guests.
Its $500 for 2 hours from 1:00PM - 3:00pm
and $700 from 5:00Pm - Sunset
We’re looking at a minimum of $1500 upfront with $1000 refundable deposit.
Friday Ceremonies
Same thing with Fridays, they want to keep the park open to public. Receptions are NOT available during Fridays.
However, you’re more afforded to do have more time from 1:00PM-Sunset at $500/hr. Minimum of 2 hours.
$2000 for 2 hours with a $1000 refundable deposit.
Saturday Ceremonies
Saturday is the only time you’re allowed to have both your ceremony and reception at Airlie Gardens from 10:00AM - 10:00PM(3 hour minimum) for $1000/hour.
You’ll be looking to spend $9000 upfront for an 8 hour wedding. Which isn’t that bad considering Wrightsville Manor’s wedding is about $1000 more than that for a wedding on Saturdays during peak season.
Sunday Ceremonies
The park is available between 10:00Am - Sunset with a 2 Hour minimum at $1000/hour
Airlie Gardens FAQ
Do you still need a marriage license to get married at Airlie Gardens?
Yes. Airlie is the venue, but your legal marriage license still comes from New Hanover County. Use this checklist: How to Get Married in Wilmington, NC.
Can you have both ceremony and reception at Airlie Gardens?
In many cases, yes, but timing and day restrictions apply. Confirm current reception windows and minimum hours directly with Airlie before paying deposits.
Do you need a planner or coordinator for Airlie Gardens?
Airlie typically expects professional coordination for wedding events. Confirm their current requirement and approved-vendor process during your inquiry.
Is Airlie Gardens good for elopements?
Yes, especially for couples who want a garden ceremony with iconic Wilmington scenery. It’s one of the most requested spots in Wilmington for intimate ceremonies.
What’s Next
01
To get started, Submit the form below
Fill out the form below to get started. We’ll schedule a date and time to sit down jog some ideas on getting married in Airlie Gardens. See if were the right fit.
02
Book the planner + photographer
We’ll go through the pricing, find the right vendors for your wedding. We’ll go over my “done-for-you” checklist. When wedding day comes, the only thing you have to do is focus on getting ready.
- 03
Get ready for fun!
Get ready for a day of fun! See your wedding plans fall into place while I photograph your day. Once we’re all set I’ll edit the photos and deliver it within 2-3 weeks.
Wilmington Wedding Photographer in Airlie Gardens
Hi guys! my name is Glenn, wedding and portrait photographer based in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Are you looking for a planner and photographer to get you wed in Airlie Gardens?
Fill out the form below to get started!
If you want the full local legal checklist first, read: How to Get Married in Wilmington, NC