Walk onto the grounds of Broadslab Distillery in Benson, North Carolina, and you’ll smell it before you see the wood beams. It’s that distinct, sweet mash scent of corn and grain fermenting—the soul of a real-deal distillery. Tucked away in Johnston County, specifically in the Meadow community, stands a structure that has basically redefined what "rustic" means for couples in the Southeast. The Barn at Broadslab isn’t some prefab kit dropped onto a parking lot. It is a massive, authentic timber-frame masterpiece sitting on a working farm that has been in the Norris family for generations.
If you’re looking for a sanitized, corporate ballroom, this isn't it. Honestly, that’s why it’s so popular.
People drive from Raleigh, Fayetteville, and even out of state because this place feels heavy. Not heavy in a bad way, but heavy with history. Jeremy Norris, the founder and master distiller, didn’t just wake up one day and decide to build a wedding venue. He’s a fifth-generation moonshiner who went legitimate, and the barn was a natural extension of that heritage. It’s built with the same grit and attention to detail that goes into their Shine Select or their Reserve Whiskey.
What Actually Makes The Barn at Broadslab Different?
Most "barn venues" you find on Instagram are actually just large sheds with some white paint and a few chandeliers. This is different. We’re talking about massive exposed beams, high ceilings, and a level of craftsmanship that makes you want to run your hands over the wood. The architecture is intentional. It bridges the gap between a rugged, working farm and a space that’s elegant enough for a high-end black-tie wedding.
You’ve got about 7,000 square feet to play with. That’s huge.
It comfortably fits 250 to 300 guests without everyone feeling like sardines in a tin. But the real magic is the transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The large doors open up to reveal the rolling fields of corn—the very corn used to make the spirits served at the bar. It’s a full-circle agricultural experience that most venues simply cannot replicate. They don't have the dirt or the crops to back it up.
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The Logistics Nobody Tells You About
Let’s get real about wedding planning for a second. You can have the prettiest view in the world, but if the "getting ready" rooms are cramped or the bathrooms are glorified port-a-potties, your day is going to be stressful. The Barn at Broadslab solved this by building out dedicated suites that are actually comfortable.
The bridal suite is bright. It has plenty of mirrors and outlets—which, believe me, your hair and makeup team will thank you for. Then there’s the groom’s den. Instead of a closet, the guys get a space that feels like a lounge, often stocked with some of that famous Broadslab moonshine to take the edge off the pre-ceremony jitters.
Why the Location in Benson Matters More Than You Think
Benson is often overlooked as just a spot off I-95 or I-40. But for a destination-style wedding, it’s a strategic goldmine. You are far enough away from the noise of Raleigh to feel like you’ve escaped, yet close enough that your guests aren't driving three hours into the wilderness.
There are practical perks to being in Johnston County, too:
- Accessibility: It’s right at the crossroads of two major interstates.
- Vibe: It’s genuine "Old North Carolina." No fake accents or forced hospitality here.
- Photography: The light at sunset over the Broadslab cornfields is a photographer’s dream. The "Golden Hour" here hits different because there are no skyscrapers or power lines blocking the horizon.
The Spirit of the Place (Literally)
You can’t talk about the barn without talking about the distillery. It’s the heartbeat of the whole operation. When you host an event at The Barn at Broadslab, you have the option to incorporate the distillery’s products. Imagine a signature cocktail menu featuring 100% grain-to-glass moonshine or aged whiskey.
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It’s a conversation starter.
Guests who think they hate moonshine usually change their minds after trying a "Broadslab Lemonade" or a craft cocktail made by people who actually understand the chemistry of distilling. It adds a layer of "experience" that goes beyond just eating dinner and dancing to a DJ. You’re inviting people into a legacy. Jeremy Norris is often around, and the passion the staff has for their craft is infectious. They aren't just "event staff"—they are stewards of the land.
Weather Proofing Your Big Day
North Carolina weather is famously moody. It can be 70 degrees at noon and a thunderstorm at 4 PM. The Barn at Broadslab was designed with this "Plan B" mentality in mind. The indoor space is climate-controlled—a non-negotiable for summer weddings in the South—and the layout allows for a quick flip if an outdoor ceremony gets rained out. You aren't sacrificing the aesthetic just because you have to move inside. The interior is just as photogenic as the fields.
The Cost vs. Value Debate
Is it the cheapest venue in Johnston County? No. Is it the most expensive? Also no.
The value comes from the "all-in" nature of the facility. When you factor in the tables, the chairs, the suites, and the sheer scale of the building, you realize you aren't being nickeled and dimed for every extra fork. Plus, the sheer size means you don't need to spend $10,000 on flowers just to make the room look full. The wood and the architecture do a lot of the heavy lifting for you.
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Many couples find that they save money on decor because the barn itself is the statement piece. A few strands of lights, some simple greenery, and the place looks like a magazine spread.
Common Misconceptions About Broadslab
Some people hear "distillery" and "barn" and think it’s going to be a rowdy, unrefined experience. That couldn't be further from the truth. While the venue has a relaxed, country soul, the execution of events there is incredibly professional.
It’s a "choose your own adventure" space.
If you want a rustic-chic wedding with hay bales and sunflowers, it works. If you want a sophisticated, modern wedding with velvet linens and gold accents, the dark wood of the barn provides a stunning, moody backdrop that makes those colors pop. It’s a chameleon.
Another myth is that it’s only for weddings. While weddings are the bread and butter, the barn is increasingly used for corporate retreats and large-scale family reunions. Businesses from the Research Triangle Park (RTP) are starting to realize that getting their teams out of a glass-and-steel office and onto a farm in Benson actually sparks creativity.
Actionable Steps for Planning Your Visit
If you’re seriously considering The Barn at Broadslab for your next big event, don't just look at the pictures. You need to feel the scale of the place in person.
- Book a Tasting First: Go to the distillery during regular hours. Grab a flight of their spirits. Sit on the porch. If you like the vibe of the distillery, you’ll love the barn. It’s the same DNA.
- Check the Calendar Early: Because this is a working farm and a highly sought-after venue, Saturdays in October and May disappear sometimes 18 months in advance. If you’re flexible with a Friday or Sunday, you’ll have a much better shot at snagging a date.
- Ask About the "Meadow" Local Vendors: The community around Broadslab is tight-knit. They have a list of preferred caterers and florists who have worked the barn dozens of times. These vendors know exactly where the outlets are, where the sun hits at 6 PM, and how to load in efficiently. Using "Broadslab-approved" vendors can save you a massive amount of logistical headache.
- Consider the Season: A winter wedding in the barn is incredibly cozy with the right lighting, while a late spring wedding allows you to take full advantage of the lush, green cornfields. Think about the "backdrop" you want for your photos.
The Barn at Broadslab stands as a testament to what happens when you respect the land and the craft. It isn't just a building; it's a family’s history turned into a place where other families can start theirs. Whether you're there for the whiskey or the wedding, you leave feeling like you've been a part of something authentic. In a world of "Instagram-perfect" facades, that's a rare thing to find.