Black Tie Optional Long dresses and tuxes preferred Our venue includes outdoor spaces and stone pathways, so we recommend comfortable shoes (think thick heels, ladies!), and suggest bringing a light layer in case of cooler evening temperatures.
Although we love your kiddos, this is an adult only evening. We recognize there will be unique circumstances with newborns, so we ask that you please touch base with Maddie as we can help arrange care options.
Whether you stay in a hotel or AirBnB/Vrbo, use proximity to downtown or The Biltmore as your reference. We’ve listed a range of suggestions on our travel page, and recommend staying downtown if you want to be in the middle of all the action. There are plenty more affordable and higher end options not listed. For those who have been to Asheville, you know Biltmore Village as a bustling area. This part of town was one of the hardest hit during Hurricane Helene. You will see continued recovery efforts nearby as most of the charming shops, restaurants and inns remain closed.
Guests may start arriving by 5:30pm. It takes about 20 minutes to get from the front gate of the Estate to Diana. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the ceremony to allow time for check-in at the entrance gate and drive to the venue. Give yourself enough wiggle room - we’ll start at 6 sharp!
Yes! Please drink responsibly if you plan on driving, otherwise plan to Uber to/from the property. There should be signs for the Diana, but in the event there's not: - Follow signs for Biltmore House and Gardens after the ticket entrance - If you get to a fork in the road and your option is to go left for an "8-minute walk," take it. - Lot A is on your left, park as high up as you can. There will be a golf cart running. - If you drive in front of the Biltmore house, get a good look but turn around - you've gone too far. - After the wedding, you'll be required to drive through the rest of the estate (~4 miles) on dark, windy roads. Drive safely and slowly. Or Uber.
If you're planning on touring the House prior to the wedding, we highly recommend going early Saturday morning or sooner to give yourself plenty of time to visit. Purchase your tickets in advance, as they often sell out!
No. Upon arrival, let the security gate attendants know you are attending the Holmes/Sutherland wedding, and they will allow you on the property.
Stay calm! We had a turkey and a black bear pay us a visit on our venue tour in June - not that uncommon for the Asheville area. Black bears operate similarly to deer -- just let them do their thing and don't mess with them.