General Questions

  • Please see the details found here for complete pricing and included items.

  • 150 guests, including the bridal party

  • Please see our 2025 and 2026 calendars here for available dates.

  • When the contract is signed, to continue holding the date, we require a 50% booking fee to be paid. Six months prior to the event, 25% of the remaining fee will be due. The final installment will be required 90 days prior to the event. You are welcome to send smaller, partial payments of any amount prior to the specified due date, so in effect creating your own payment plan on your own schedule. Please include the last names of the couple and the wedding date in the memo line if you are mailing a check. Full payment is due by the specified due date. We also reserve the right to request a credit card on file for any damages to the facility or grounds. Tax is applied to each payment.

  • To reserve a date email us at events@ironhornfarms.com saying you are ready to book XYZ date if it is still available. We suggest you email us stating you are ready to book your preferred date and then include a backup date in case your preferred date is unavailable. Prior to booking a date, we hope you are able to come out in person to visit the farm. You can request a tour (or a Facetime tour if you live out of the area) on our tour request page, but an in person tour is not required prior to booking a date. Dates are reserved on a first requested basis. Whomever has requested to start the contract process from us by email first for a specific date will be first in line.

  • We kindly request that all tours are by appointment only. You can request a tour here.

  • At Iron Horn Farms, we only host one wedding each day to ensure that each couple's event is special and receives our full attention.

  • 75 cars.

  • Yes, we are located within minutes of multiple towns and cities in both North and South Carolina that offer lodging.

    Towns: Calabash, Whiteville, Shallotte, Southport, Wilmington, Lumberton, and more.

    Beaches: Ocean Isle, Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island, Southport, Wrightsville, and more.

    South Carolina: Little River, Loris, Dillon, North Myrtle Beach, and more.

  • No. Iron Horn Farms provides an awesome venue, tables, chairs, and select decor for the allotted amount of time. Linens can be rented through us, but are NOT included in the rental fee. You are also welcome to bring your own linens.

  • In the case of rain we have a beautiful indoor view of our back pond. Guests sit at their tables and the IHF team moves the few (usually 4 - 8) tables over to the sides of the room to create a beautiful aisle. Our couples have loved this option because it’s a stunning ceremony location and doesn’t require a full room flip that some other venues require, which can be disruptive to your event.

  • Because we only host one event per day, our fee structure remains the same whether you hold your ceremony, reception, or both onsite. With that being said, we do offer an Elopement Package. Pricing details for elopements can be found here.

  • Absolutely! We are extremely dog friendly here at Iron Horn Farms. With that being said, we have put a few specific stipulations in place as follows to ensure there are no disruptions to the venue, your vendors, and/or your guests on wedding day.

    Dogs are welcome with Iron Horn Farm staff pre-approval to be part of the ceremony and to join pre- and post-ceremony photos. We kindly ask that all dogs leave the venue following post-ceremony photos, and do not participate in cocktail hour, dinner, or the wedding reception.

    Animals, other than service animals, are NOT allowed under roof or near food. Dogs must be on a leash and someone must be responsible for them other than the bride and groom.

    We delightfully welcome all dogs with minimal restrictions during your complimentary on-site photo session prior to wedding day.

  • Cash or check.

  • We do keep a cancellation waiting list, but ask you to remember that cancellations are unpredictable and unlikely. We highly suggest considering other dates verses joining the waiting list, if possible.

    As soon as a date becomes available (in the circumstance that we do not have anyone on the waiting list) we will post it here.

  • We reserve time upon request during your tour to show you the second floor of our pavilion, which holds our current decor inventory. Our online inventory portal is currently in the works and will soon be accessible through our website here.

  • You will have access to the venue at the time listed on your contract. We do not specify this information here simply because setup access depends on your chosen day and package.

  • This is such a great question! If you're trying to compare venues "apples to apples" we feel like this is a tricky question. Our answer is no. We think it’s possible for the job duties of a "day-of wedding coordinator" to mean something different to you than it does to us, and the last thing we want is the opportunity for miscommunication. However, we do have a team leader here before you arrive on-site who will be on-call throughout the duration of your big day. This member of the Iron Horn Farms team is available to help you however they can via call, text message, or Facetime.

    On-site team members can, and happily will be made available if requested and coordinated by no later than when your final payment is due (30 days prior to wedding day.) Our on-site team will provide an extra set of hands decorating, drive you around the farm on the Polaris or Gator to take wedding pictures, answer questions from your vendors and direct them as necessary, and more.

    Our goal is to do everything possible to help your day go smoothly and ensure your day is as stress-free as possible! (But in either scenario, we still don't consider anyone on our team a day-of wedding coordinator.)

Catering Questions

  • No. Many venues have minimums because they make a 10 - 15% commission from the caterer based on how much you spend on food and drinks. We choose NOT to make a commission because we want our food and beverage options to be as elegant or affordable as your budget allows, and therefore we don't have a food and beverage or guest count minimum. Some caterers may have a reasonable minimum for specific dates.

  • While we have a list of recommended vendors we know and trust, you are welcome to select any caterer, bartender, or vendor of your choice. Please ensure they carry the required liability insurance and hold relevant certifications. We do request that any vendors hired who are not on our recommended list please meet with us at Iron Horn Farms upon being hired, prior to your wedding day.

  • Upon signing your contract, you will be given access to your CustomIron Horn Farms Online Wedding Planner to coordinate your big day, which will include many helpful planning tips as well as recommended caterers and vendors.

  • It is possible to have an open bar and delicious meal for 100 - 125 people for around $5,000 with several of our caterers when you make careful food and beverage decisions. (Disclaimer: we are sure you could spend more than this, but if your looking for awesome budget friendly options, they definitely exist with these great caterers.)

  • Three weeks.

  • In our experience, it's most efficient and most cost effective for couples to work directly with the caterer. Simply book your big day with Iron Horn Farms and reach out to the caterers of your choosing to schedule a tasting and get the ball rolling! Contact info for each caterer is in your IHF Online Wedding Planner.

Planning Questions

  • 150 guests, including the bridal party.

  • Please see our 2025 and 2026 calendars here for available dates.

  • We do not require you to use our caterers and bar service at this time, but we do ask that you allow us to meet with the vendors you chose before your wedding day or event.

  • Our open house events are designed for couples who have already had a private tour of Iron Horn Farms. If we have already had the chance to meet, we welcome you out to one of our open house events. Open house dates and the RSVP form can be requested via email at events@ironhornfarms.com.

  • We suggest starting Friday weddings at 5:00 pm, Saturday weddings between 4:00 - 5:00 pm, and Sunday weddings at 4:00 pm. Should your wedding be taking place after the time change, if you do NOT plan to do a first look or plan to get married when the sun sets earlier in the evening, please contact us to discuss schedule.

  • If you elect the one day rental, our venue will likely be reserved by another couple the night before. For that reason, one day rentals should plan for an offsite rehearsal. You are also welcome to bring anyone who would feel more comfortable understanding the venue (such as your DJ or minister, or any little ones in the wedding party) to one of our monthly open houses.

  • Yes! We encourage guests to leave their vehicles overnight at our venue if they’ve been drinking. Your safety is our priority, and we want everyone to enjoy the celebration responsibly. We kindly ask that you pick up your vehicle the following morning, so you can enjoy the night worry-free!

  • Music on Friday's/Saturday's must conclude by 10:30 p.m. to ensure that you, all of your items, and all of your vendors are off-property by midnight, aside from those who are staying on-site. Music on Sunday's must conclude by 9:30 p.m. to be off property by 10:30 pm.

  • We are a working farm with locked gates unless otherwise coordinated. Therefore, all deliveries must happen during the standard rental period without prior approval. Please advise your vendors of this policy.

  • Absolutely! One of the things our brides and grooms love most about Iron Horn Farms is the freedom to personalize our space and grounds to bring their unique vision to life.

  • Yes, candles are allowed as long as the flame is completely contained in a candle holder. Tapered candles and any type of hanging candles will not be allowed for safety reasons.

  • For couples seeking to obtain a marriage license in North Carolina or South Carolina, here’s what you need to know:

    North Carolina

    1. Apply in person: Both applicants must go to the Register of Deeds office in any North Carolina county. The license is valid anywhere in the state.

    2. Provide Identification: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license, passport, or military ID) and your Social Security number.

    3. Fees: The marriage license fee is typically $60, though this can vary slightly by county.

    4. Waiting Period: There is no waiting period; you can use the license immediately.

    5. Expiration: The license is valid for 60 days.

    South Carolina

    1. Apply in person: Both parties must go to the Probate Court in any South Carolina county. The license is valid statewide.

    2. Provide Identification: Both applicants need a valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) and Social Security number.

    3. Fees: Fees vary by county but are usually between $50–$100.

    4. Waiting Period: There is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period before the license is valid.

    5. Expiration: There is no expiration date for South Carolina marriage licenses.

    In both states, you can generally obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the same office where you applied, for an additional fee.

  • We highly recommend purchasing or adding NewlyNamed to your wedding registry.

    NewlyNamed is a service that simplifies the name-change process for newlyweds by providing customized name-change kits. These kits include all the forms, instructions, and checklists needed to update your name with various government agencies, financial institutions, and other organizations to save a significant amount of time and effort in the steps we’ve listed below.

    Here are the key steps to legally change your last name after marriage in the U.S.:

    1. Obtain Certified Copies of Your Marriage Certificate: Request several certified copies from the office where your marriage license was filed (usually the County Clerk or Register of Deeds).

    2. Update Your Social Security Card:

    • Complete the SS-5 form (Application for a Social Security Card), available online or at your local Social Security office.

    • Bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license or passport), and your current Social Security card.

    • There’s no fee to change your name on your Social Security card, and you’ll receive the updated card in about 10-14 days.

    3. Update Your Driver’s License or State ID:

    • Visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) with your new Social Security card, marriage certificate, and current ID.

    • Each state has different fees and requirements, so check the DMV website for specifics. In some cases, they may require proof of residence if you’ve recently moved.

    4. Update Your Passport (if applicable):

    • If your passport was issued less than a year ago, the update is free; otherwise, a fee applies.

    • Complete the appropriate form based on how long you’ve had your passport (DS-82 or DS-5504).

    • Submit a certified marriage certificate copy and a new passport photo.

    5. Update Financial and Personal Accounts:

    • Notify your bank, credit card companies, and other financial institutions. Most will ask for a certified copy of your marriage certificate.

    • Update your name with your employer, healthcare providers, and insurance companies.

    6. Notify Other Relevant Agencies:

    • Update your name with the IRS (by filing a W-9 form), USPS, utility providers, voter registration, and any professional licensing boards.

    Each institution has its own requirements, so check for specifics to ensure the process is as smooth as possible.

Setup and Day-of-Event Questions

  • Outside food and drink are permitted prior to the ceremony. It is not allowed after the start of the event. Please no drinks in glass bottles.

  • Iron Horn Farms staff will handle all standard clean-up and trash removal following the wedding reception.

  • Sure! Just ask us, and we will be happy to make recommendations.

  • We request that holes are not placed in the walls, unless you are given prior approval in writing by Iron Horn Farms. We will have areas where hooks are already placed that you are welcome to use for any additional decorations.

Lodging Questions

  • Yes, we are located within minutes of multiple towns and cities in both North and South Carolina that offer lodging.

    Towns: Whiteville, Shallotte, Lumberton, Wilmington, and more.

    Beaches: Calabash, Ocean Isle, Sunset Beach, Holden Beach, Oak Island, Southport, Wrightsville, and more.

    South Carolina: Little River, Loris, Dillon, North Myrtle Beach, and more.

  • The Cabin: Sleeps up to 8 guests

    The Bunkhouse: Sleeps up to 4 guests

  • No, you are not required to utilize both spaces, but they both will be included in your rental.

  • We kindly request that only those staying on-site use The Cabin and The Bunkhouse during the wedding weekend. This helps maintain the privacy and comfort of our overnight guests, ensures a peaceful space for rest and preparation, and allows those staying on-site to keep these areas clean and secure throughout their stay.

  • We kindly ask that the Cabin and Bunkhouse remain pet-free to ensure the comfort and cleanliness of the space. However, required service animals are welcome with prior approval from our team.

  • Our accommodations are fully equipped to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay. We provide fresh linens, towels, robes, hangers, coffee stations, bath and dish soaps, hair dryers, clothing steamers and ironing boards, laundry detergent and dryer sheets, numerous cleaning supplies, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, both the Cabin and Bunkhouse feature cozy furnishings, extra blankets, numerous board games, and all the essentials to make you feel at home.

  • Yes, we provide fresh bedding and linens for all overnight guests to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay.

  • Yes, both the Cabin and Bunkhouse are equipped with high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi. Our Starlink routers provide excellent coverage throughout the entire property, keeping you connected at all times during your stay.

  • Check-in: As early as 8:00 a.m.

    Check-out: No later than 12:00 p.m.

  • We allow decorating, but you must refrain from nailing or sticking anything to walls or ceilings. We prefer that furniture is not moved around to preserve the condition of our hardwood floors, but if it is necessary for wedding day photos then we will allow it as long as you receive approval from your Iron Horn Farms point of contact.

  • Upon booking the Cabin and Bunkhouse, we collect a standard refundable security damage deposit. Standard clean up policies are required to be completed prior to check-out, and will be provided for you at booking and check-in. We ask that guests leave the accommodations in good condition before the end of their stay. This includes tidying common areas, disposing of trash, and removing all personal belongings. We kindly request that guests clean any dishes they’ve used and put them back in the correct cabinets and drawers, or leave the dishes clean in the dishwasher. We additionally ask that you strip the bed sheets before leaving. While we handle the deep cleaning, your efforts in wiping down surfaces and tidying up help ensure a smooth transition for the next guests. Any excessive mess or damage beyond normal wear and tear may incur an additional cleaning fee. We greatly appreciate your cooperation in keeping our space welcoming!

  • One of the best things about staying on-site during your wedding weekend is that you are only steps away from the wedding pavilion!

  • The Cabin is fully accessible to individuals with mobility challenges, but the Bunkhouse requires use of a staircase to access.

  • Yes.

  • Yes, you can book additional nights before or after the wedding. Many couples prefer this to have extra time for set-up, photos, relaxation, and fun. If you’d like to reserve the Cabin and/or Bunkhouse outside the Lodging Package window, please contact us to arrange the booking. We’ll be happy to offer our weeknight pricing for any extra nights.

  • Breakfast and other food are not included in your rental or provided by Iron Horn Farms for overnight guests unless otherwise coordinated at the time of booking. We recommend shopping for your groceries prior to arrive or ordering breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner from Nakina’s most beloved restaurant, Kitchen Love.

  • Yes, we have laundry facilities in the main Cabin and hidden behind barn doors in the wedding pavilion.

  • Yes, small gatherings are welcome in the main Cabin! To ensure comfort and maintain the space, we kindly ask that these gatherings be limited to 25 guests or fewer. This helps preserve the cozy atmosphere and keeps things enjoyable for everyone.

  • No, we do not enforce quiet hours during your stay, as one of the perks of staying on-site is that the entire property is yours for the weekend.

  • We’ve taken care of many essentials to make your stay as comfortable as possible! We provide fresh linens, towels, robes, hangers, bath soap, hair dryers, curling irons, straighteners, clothing steamers, ironing boards, dish pods, laundry detergent, coffee stations, and basic cleaning supplies. You may want to bring your personal toiletries, snacks, and any specialty items you’d like for your stay. If there’s anything specific you’re unsure about, feel free to reach out, and we’ll be happy to help!

  • If you have any questions or need assistance during your stay, Rachel Vaughan is your dedicated point of contact. She’s available by phone, text, or FaceTime and is always happy to help. For on-site assistance, Rachel or another member of our Iron Horn Farms team will come to the venue to ensure your needs are met.