A Seasonal Guide For NC Weddings: Indoor vs. Outdoor Ceremonies

One of the first big decisions couples face when planning their NC wedding is where to hold the ceremony. Are you going to hold it indoors or outdoors? Both settings have great benefits, and the best choice usually comes down to the season and the aesthetic you want for your big day. At Historic Wakefield Barn, we’re lucky to have beautiful options for both, so couples don’t have to stress about picking just one.

Indoor Weddings in the Great Hall

The Great Hall is our most popular ceremony spot, and for good reason. It’s all original pine floors, 34-foot-high original ceilings with 12 chandeliers, and 6,200 square feet of historic charm make this space a stunning space to get married. Ceremonies are either set up against the window or the mezzanine, depending on the couple's vision.

One of the best parts of an indoor wedding is not having to worry about the weather. North Carolina summers can be hot, spring can bring unexpected rain, and fall and winter can be chilly. The Great Hall keeps everyone comfortable while still giving you a dramatic, beautiful space. After your ceremony, guests can head downstairs to The Stables for cocktail hour while we flip the space into reception.

Outdoor Weddings on the Lawn or Patio

If you love the idea of fresh air and wide-open views, our outdoor spaces are perfect. The Historic Wakefield Barn covers 14 acres of land and includes our pastures, patio, lawn, and elm, which are beautiful outdoor areas surrounding the main barn. Many couples choose to have an outdoor ceremony on the lawn under our large elm tree or on our patio facing the fireplace. The best months to have a ceremony on the lawn range from April to September. In our spring and summer months, the grass is green, the trees are in full bloom, and the entire space feels very lush. 

Another stunning outdoor ceremony space is on our patio facing the fireplace. Our patio is just under 3,500 square feet and can absolutely accommodate a party of any size. The patio is great year-round and makes for a very cozy and romantic backdrop. We suggest adding florals down the aisle or greenery around the fireplace. For couples who want the outdoors in the winter months, a heated tent over the patio is a very elegant option.  

The weather in North Carolina can be highly unpredictable, but do not let that stop you from having your dream outdoor ceremony. If the weather is looking rainy on your big day, we can absolutely take your ceremony from outside to inside in our Great Hall. We always give couples a call two days ahead of their wedding date to discuss if the weather will impact their outdoor ceremony and create a backup plan.

Have the Best of Both Worlds | The Historic Wakefield Barn

The best part about Historic Wakefield Barn is that you don’t really have to pick just one. Many couples host their ceremony outside and then bring everyone indoors for cocktail hour and the reception. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the best of both spaces.

If you’re planning a wedding in North Carolina and want a venue that gives you flexibility, history, and beauty all in one, Historic Wakefield Barn is one of the top Raleigh wedding venues to consider. Whether you dream of an indoor ceremony in the Great Hall or an outdoor wedding under the elm tree, we’d love to help you bring it to life.