Wedding Planning: Castle Ladyhawke: October 2025
When a couple from Key West dreams of a castle wedding in the North Carolina mountains, you know the planning journey is going to be anything but ordinary. Ashtyn and Justin envisioned a day with Nordic, Viking, and medieval energy — moody crimson reds, rich blacks, metallic accents, and a hint of the macabre. That vision led us straight to Castle Ladyhawke in Tuckasegee, NC, an incredible stone fortress perched above sweeping mountain views. It was the perfect setting for their intimate October 13, 2025 celebration — bold, dramatic, and completely unforgettable.
The Gothic Wedding Setting
From the beginning, this wedding rewrote tradition in the coolest way. Guests were invited to wear red, creating a cohesive, editorial look that translated beautifully in photos. Everywhere you turned, there was texture, depth, and intentional style — from the lush florals by The Blossom Jar to the subtle skull touches tucked into the décor. Ashtyn carried a preserved bouquet of dried and silk flowers that paired effortlessly with the live arrangements and ceremony arbor, merging modern artistry with organic, moody romance.
And the attire? Truly showstopping.
Ashtyn wore a fully custom black beaded gown from Elizabeth Lee Bridal in Dallas, TX. It was dramatic, sleek, and absolutely her. Justin matched that energy with a custom suit and cape from Street Smart Tailoring in Washington, DC — proving the groom’s fashion moment can be every bit as iconic. Together, they looked like they had stepped straight out of a cinematic world — one where modern love meets medieval fantasy.
Castle Ladyhawke Wedding
The ceremony itself took place overlooking the mountains, with classical “spooky” music like Bach’s Toccata and Fugue setting the tone — atmospheric, not gimmicky. In an especially meaningful twist, both fathers officiated, with a handfasting ritual symbolizing the joining of their lives. Steve Conrad, Father of the Bride, and Dale Freck, Father of the Groom, helped guide the moment — making it personal, grounded, and uniquely theirs. Afterward, guests enjoyed cocktails before heading inside the castle for dinner around beautifully styled tables with rentals from Professional Party Rentals. The sweetheart table featured custom wine goblets, and Ashtyn-designed stationery highlighted bold poppies and celestial details.
The Reception & Details
Once dinner wrapped, everyone headed back outside where East Entertainment took over and the castle became the backdrop for an open-air dance floor under the stars. With a small guest list, every person there mattered. Every detail had intention. And every moment felt like it belonged in their story — not anyone else’s playbook.
This wedding was proof that when you trust your style, magic happens. A castle. Deep, moody color. Custom fashion. A little edge. A lot of personality. And behind the scenes, our team loved helping bring that vision to life — from first venue search to final dance. Ashtyn and Justin didn’t just get married. They built a world for a day — and invited the people they love most into it.
Are you ready to start planning your big day with Premier Party Planners by your side? Then Let’s Chat!
Vendor info:
Ceremony & Reception: Castle Ladyhawke
Caterer: Castle Ladyhawke
Desserts: The Giddy Chick
Photo/Video: Capturing WNC
Rentals: Professional Party Rentals
Photobooth: Love Stream
Florist: The Blossom Jar
DJ: East Entertainment
Hair Makeup: Bella Bridal Artistry
Transportation: Van in Black & Bear Lake
Wedding Planners: Premier Party Planners @premierpartyplanners
