Imagine three days and nights of romantic, riverside bliss, nestled in the West Virginia Mountains. Instead of the enormous stress and expense of a big, fancy wedding, imagine treating yourselves to An Elopement Like No Otter.
An Elopement Like No Otter includes:
- 3 nights at Basswood, Capon Bridge, WV’s premier boutique hotel.
- A heartfelt and intimate ceremony beside the beautiful, healing waters of the Cacapon River.
- 1 hour of professional photography to capture your “otterly” perfect moments.
- A three-hour excursion and 5-course premium dining experience aboard the famous Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad.
- A generously stuffed “Otterly Amazing” gift basket—overflowing with local treasures, yummy things to eat, gift certificates to our favorite local hangouts and other surprises to kick off your celebration.
Your marriage deserves the very best care it can get, especially in the beginning because your marriage is going to take care of you for the rest of your lives. Be kind to yourselves with An Elopement Like No Otter.
With many otter amenities An Elopement Like No Otter provides
- your choice of 5 beautifully decorated suites
- legal signing and return of your provided WV marriage license
- complete stress free coordination
- a ceremony designed and written especially for you
- decorated indoor or outdoor ceremony space
- any unity ceremony or handfasting at no extra charge
- framed commemorative certificate of marriage
- loaner bouquets / boutonnieres
- nicely bound copy of your ceremony
- use of video tripod / bluetooth speaker
- ceremonial ribbon tying
We have excellent wifi and you’re welcome to livestream to family and friends. We’ll play your selected music, and record video on equipment you provide.
We’re close by
The Appalachian Wedding Chapel & Boutique is only 25 minutes west of Winchester Va., easily accessible to the entire mid-Atlantic, DMV and WV region, and we’re quickly becoming the number one micro-wedding venue in the region. John and Brenda are licensed officiants in the States of Virginia and West Virginia and DC.
Still have questions? Don’t worry, we’ve got answers, so see below. Better yet, schedule a free consultation. Click Here
FAQ’s
How do I get my license?
Getting your license is easy in West Virginia! Simply visit any WV county courthouse with your proper ID. The process usually takes no more than 30 minutes, and your license is valid for 60 days anywhere in the state. Our local courthouse is located at 19 East Main St. Romney WV.
Do you offer hair and make up services?
Yes we do! Along with many other boutique services like beautifully crafted live bouquets, musicians, professional videography and delicious wedding cakes.
Is Basswood pet-friendly?
Yes and no. While you are more than welcome to bring and even include your animal companion in your ceremony, the suites at Basswood do not permit pets except service animals. However, we are happy to substitute your stay for pet-friendly accommodations at the wonderful Buffalo Gap Retreat just a few miles down the road. Find out more about Buffalo Gap here and on our Trusted Partners page
How will I know where to be and when?
You’ll have a detailed itinerary waiting for you in your room when you arrive. The Appalachian Wedding Chapel & Boutique is on the lower floor of Basswood, where you’ll be staying, so your ceremony will be literally right outside your door. Your tickets for the Potomac Eagle, instructions and directions to the station in Romney will be there too.
Are there places to eat and other things to do nearby?
Yes! And you’ll want to take full advantage of the information and gift certificates included in your complimentary gift basket. There you’ll find everything you’ll need to know from local dining options (some may even be free) to complimentary tickets to concerts or other events. Hiking trails, scenic wonders, kayaking, massage and other therapeutic options are available as well.
Are there really otters in the river?
Absolutely! And it’s something we’re very proud to say the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources and others worked really hard to change. For a long time otters were scarce in WV, but they’ve made an amazing comeback.
Will we be able to see any otters?
Maybe. Otters are more active by moonlight, but it’s entirely possible to see them during the day. Just like any wild animal though, it’s best to observe their beauty and playfulness from a distance. If they’re a little bashful, don’t worry, we keep plenty of nice, safe, plush otters in our Boutique.
What’s a Unity Ceremony?
A Unity Ceremony is a unique addition to the traditional wedding elements like the exchange of rings and vows. A memorable enhancement to your ceremony, Unity Ceremonies feature various accessories and handmade mementos you’ll always treasure. We carry many locally made items like custom designed handfasting cords in our shop. Learn more about our Unity Ceremonies Here
What do we need to bring?
As far as your wedding is concerned, you only need:
- your legally authorized WV license.
- whatever you plan to wear
- rings if you are exchanging them
So what’s the cost?
An Elopement Like No Otter is $2950.00, which is far less than most venues charge just for the space. We require a $1000.00 deposit to hold your date, book your room and schedule your excursion. The balance is due by the date of the event.
What’s the deal with the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad excursion?
Glad you asked! It is a journey into the heart of “Almost Heaven”, West Virginia where the romance of the rails meets the wild, untouched beauty of the Appalachians. Departing from the historic Wapacomo Station in Romney, this vintage train whisks you away on a three-hour escape into the legendary Trough Canyon. This remote mountain pass is accessible only by rail, offering you and your partner a private, front-row seat to spectacular cliffs and the sparkling South Branch of the Potomac River.
As you savor a gourmet five-course premium meal in the climate-controlled elegance of a restored 1950s lounge car, keep an eye on the sky—the canyon is a sanctuary where American Bald Eagles frequently soar overhead, adding a touch of majestic wonder to your first journey as a married couple.
The “Otterly Amazing” Gift Basket
Because your marriage deserves to be celebrated from the moment you arrive, we personally select a collection of local treasures, yummy things to eat, and other surprises to make your stay extra sweet. Inside, you’ll find things like:
- A Taste of the Mountains: A selection of artisanal local treats and savory snacks perfect for a riverside picnic or a late-night indulgence in your suite.
- The “Otter” Experience: Gift certificates to our favorite local haunts, from charming mountain eateries to unique boutique shops, ensuring your three-day escape is full of discovery.
- Keepsakes & Treasures: Hand-selected items from the Appalachian Wedding Chapel Boutique, including locally crafted mementos and, of course, a pair of our signature plush otters to remind you of your “otterly” perfect beginning.
- Adventure Awaits: Complimentary passes or information for local experiences, which may include seasonal concert tickets, kayak rentals, or therapeutic massage options to help you fully unwind.