Lisa + Gavin’s Enchanting Winter Wedding at Castle Ladyhawke | Tuckasegee, NC Wedding Photographer
If you love a little whimsy, a lot of heart, and a castle straight out of a fairytale, Lisa and Gavin’s intimate December wedding at Castle Ladyhawke is going to steal your heart. Tucked away in Tuckasegee, NC, this magical celebration blended cozy winter vibes with personal details, playful gothic touches, and an unforgettable sense of fun. This wedding answers the age-old question: “What would it look like if JRR Tolkien married a Disney villain?”
Pre-Ceremony Magic: A Castle Come to Life
As we arrived at Castle Ladyhawke, the halls buzzed quietly with anticipation. Gavin and his gents were downstairs suiting up, while upstairs Lisa prepared in the light-filled Ladyhawke Suite. The castle itself offered no shortage of backdrops: a spiral staircase, tower alcoves, antique furnishings, and misty mountain views that only added to the winter romance.
Before their first look, Lisa slipped into her gown while Gavin pocketed a meaningful family pocket watch. When they met in the main tower for their first look and then in the courtyard for a private moment (with their beloved dog Ramsey joining later), the joy between them was palpable. After a few moments alone, we wandered the castle grounds for portraits — a dream location for storytelling photography.
An Intimate Indoor Ceremony in the Great Hall
While an outdoor terrace ceremony had been the original plan, winter temperatures guided the event indoors to the castle’s Great Hall — a cozy, firelit space that perfectly suited Lisa + Gavin’s gothic-inspired aesthetic.
The couple walked down the aisle together, hand in hand — a beautiful symbol of their partnership. As they exchanged vows beneath flickering candlelight, guests were surrounded by thoughtful handmade touches: scroll programs, pressed leaf menus, and mystical décor elements that reflected Lisa + Gavin’s unique style. After sealing their vows with a kiss, Ramsey proudly trotted down the aisle to deliver the rings — a moment that had everyone smiling.
Cocktail Hour & a Sparkling Entrance
Post-ceremony, Lisa and Gavin shared a quiet champagne toast before joining their guests for cocktail hour. As the sun set behind the castle, they made a grand re-entrance through a sparkling tunnel of lights — a fitting start to the evening festivities.
A Great Hall Reception Full of Personal Touches
Castle Ladyhawke’s Great Hall was transformed into an enchanted space, thanks to Lisa’s thoughtful design work. Each element told a story: from vintage tarot card table numbers and hand-collected moss terrariums to a restored 1940s typewriter for guest messages.
Guests were welcomed with a cozy family-style dinner followed by toasts and a sweet moment as Lisa and Gavin cut their cake — using none other than a Lord of the Rings sword! The couple then kicked off an epic dance floor moment, complete with a choreographed swing dance and plenty of room for guests to join the fun.
A Night to Remember
We wrapped the evening with twilight photos on the castle grounds before sending the newlyweds back to their joyful celebration. It was the perfect ending to a winter wedding that beautifully blended romance, creativity, and true partnership.
Vendors & Venue Team
Venue + Coordination: Castle Ladyhawke | Emma Michalak
Photography: Carolyn for Wilder Weddings Collective
Coordinator: Deidra Fink (Day Of) for Willow Falls Events
Florals: Lisa’s Mom 🙂 @seaspraycrochet @rays_floristdesignandco
Cake/Pastries: Bread and Butter WNC
Hair/Makeup: Julie Davis at Cotton Rouge & Co.
@julierenea_mua, @cottonrougeandco
Dress: Amros Wedding Atelier @fantasy_wedding_dress
Suit: Isaac’s Menswear @isaacsmenswear
Strings: Upstate Strings Trio @upstatestringstrio
DJ: @dowoakevents
Catering: @ilda_sylva
If you’re dreaming of an Asheville-area wedding that brings your personality and passions to life, Wilder Weddings Collective would love to tell your story. Whether you’re drawn to a castle, a mountaintop, or a wild forest elopement — we’re here for the adventure.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out Bailey + Daniel’s Adventure Elopement or browse more stories on our blog.
