Business Details
Your Mountain Wedding Destination in Western NC
Founded in 1878, McGuire's Millrace Farm has evolved from a family farm into a premier mountain wedding and event destination. Our 110-acre estate in Western North Carolina combines historic charm with modern amenities, offering 8,000 square feet of event space featuring high ceilings, wrought iron chandeliers, and polished concrete floors. With over 25 years of specialized event experience since 1999, we provide personalized service for weddings, corporate events, and galas.The property's natural beauty includes 100 river birch trees, mountain vistas, and flexible indoor/outdoor ceremony options. Managed by third-generation owner Tommy McGuire and his wife Linda, we ensure every event benefits from our deep local knowledge and commitment to southern hospitality. Our venue accommodates groups of all sizes while maintaining an atmosphere of rustic elegance and comfort.
Services
Wedding Venue
Event Planning
Indoor Ceremonies
Outdoor Ceremonies
Destination Weddings
Venue Rental
Photo Sessions
Corporate Events
Charity Galas
Special Occasions
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1878 with third-generation owner overseeing all operations
- Offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony options with no weather-related fees
- Features 8,000 sq ft venue with crystal chandeliers and climate-controlled comfort
- Specializes in destination weddings with mountain views and rustic refinement
- Provides personalized service through 25+ years of event planning experience
Services
Wedding Venue
Our 8,000-square-foot rustic-chic venue features 30-foot ceilings adorned with wrought iron chandeliers, polished concrete floors, and elegant vintage furnishings. Climate-controlled with central heating and cooling, the space accommodates weddings of all sizes while maintaining mountain vistas and rustic charm.
Outdoor Ceremonies
The Birch Garden features over 100 river birch trees planted by Mr. McGuire himself, offering a majestic natural setting. The Belvedere location provides panoramic mountain views, while the arched footbridge creates a romantic water garden backdrop for ceremonies.
Event Planning
With over 25 years of specialized event experience, our team manages every detail from initial planning to execution. We offer personalized consultations, timeline creation, vendor coordination, and day-of management to ensure flawless celebrations.
Destination Weddings
As a premier Western North Carolina wedding destination, we create unforgettable experiences for out-of-town couples. Our local expertise helps with travel logistics, accommodation recommendations, and creating events that showcase the region's natural beauty and southern hospitality.
Corporate Events
Our venue accommodates conferences, retreats, and corporate celebrations with modern amenities including high-speed WiFi, climate control, and flexible seating arrangements. The picturesque setting enhances networking opportunities while providing comfortable working environments.
People
Tommy McGuire
Owner/Operator
Third-generation steward of the property, Tommy oversees daily operations and event execution. With deep roots in Cherokee County and experience managing the farm since 1999, he ensures every event maintains the family's legacy of excellence.
Linda McGuire
Owner/Event Director
Co-owner Linda focuses on client relations and event design, bringing her teaching background to create personalized experiences. She transformed a family dream into a premier wedding venue, ensuring southern hospitality defines every celebration.
Natalie Gebel
Event Coordinator
Daughter-in-law Natalie plays active role in event management, combining family tradition with modern wedding planning techniques. She assists with day-of coordination and helps couples navigate venue options while maintaining personal service standards.
Questions
What types of weddings work best at your venue?
Our venue accommodates both intimate gatherings and large celebrations with flexible indoor/outdoor spaces. The rustic elegance suits traditional weddings, mountain-themed events, and modern celebrations seeking natural backdrops.
Can ceremonies move indoors if weather changes?
Yes, we offer seamless transition to our indoor venue with no additional fee. Our 8,000 sq ft space maintains climate control while preserving the rustic-chic aesthetic with crystal chandeliers and hardwood tables.
Do you accommodate destination wedding planners?
Yes, we specialize in destination weddings with local expertise. Our team provides resources for travel coordination, accommodations, and regional vendors to create smooth experiences for out-of-area couples.
What makes your venue different from barn wedding locations?
We offer 'rustic refinement' with a modern 8,000 sq ft venue featuring polished concrete floors, wrought iron chandeliers, and climate control. Unlike typical barn venues, we combine rustic elements with contemporary comforts.
Are all ceremony locations included in rental?
Yes, all ceremony locations - Birch Garden, Belvedere, courtyard, and footbridge - are included in rental pricing. Couples may choose between multiple options without additional fees.
How far in advance should we book?
Wedding dates typically book 12-18 months in advance, especially for peak seasons. We recommend inquiring early to secure preferred dates and ensure adequate planning time for personalized events.
Reviews (5)
Cathy McNeely
May 12, 2022
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I have to admit, a year ago I was a little skeptical because I really wanted my daughter to get married in a church. We are from Huntsville, AL, but chose McGuires Millrace Farm because of Emma's (daughter) association with her friends at the Nantahala Outdoor Center from 4 summers of raft guiding while at Auburn University. This venue was amazing! It's like a church outside. The florist interpreted Emma's visions perfectly. The staff is fabulous. The space available for both outdoor socializing and indoor dining /dancing are exceptional. I highly recommend this lovely place! This is only a cell phone pic.
Becca Lee
Mar 29, 2022
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I had my wedding in October of 2021 after being pushed an entire year due to Covid. And it was an absolute dream. Although it rained the entire day, we were able to compromise and have the ceremony on the porch. The staff of McGuire's is absolutely incredible and so kind. Natalie is a dream to work with and makes the day so smooth and easy! I cannot recommend this beautiful venue enough! The food is TOP notch, the staff, the decor, the florals. literally everything!
Christine Lippy
Sep 20, 2021
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I wish there were more than 5 stars to give Natalie and the amazing group at McGuire's Millrace Farm! The combination of professionalism, true kindness, and a bit of magic made our children's special day a dream come true. Every single employee worked so hard to make their wedding vision a reality. I can't imagine a finer group of people to work with! We highly, highly recommend them!
Ari Zmijewski
Sep 15, 2021
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I cannot say enough wonderful things about this venue and the family that owns and operates it! The property is GORGEOUS and had everything we were looking for. And WOW, the food was a hit! Natalie is the best coordinator and the entire family works so hard to make sure your wedding is perfect. I recommend them to anyone getting married! My husband and I traveled all the way from California and we would do it again in a heartbeat!
Robert Mayfield
Feb 26, 2021
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I was lucky enough to attend a wedding recently of some friends. The staff is warm and welcoming, and really shows great team work. Attention to detail, the location and decor is really gorgeous. The food was yummy! If you are considering a location for a wedding this location is highly recommend.
