If you haven’t realized by now, choosing the perfect venue for your big day is no small feat. From the magic of an outdoor ‘I do,’ on a beach or in a forest, to a ceremony inside a recently renovated historic building – complete with exposed brick, high ceilings, and huge pane glass windows – each space contains its own special ambiance. This is crucial to pay attention to since it’s the backdrop of your wedding day.
If you feel stumped on where to begin, let us be your guide. We’ve got a well-rounded list of top wedding venue ideas to get you inspired. We’re here to show what’s possible, from traditional venues to unexpected gems.
We’re listing some of the top ideas that are available almost everywhere and providing examples for reference. We hope our suggestions speak to you and give you the kick-start you need to land the venue of your dreams.
Outdoors
For many, nothing beats the great outdoors. The USA has a plethora of geographic wonders so breathtaking in their beauty that you don’t need to do much of anything décor-wise. Mother Nature’s got almost everything covered except your dresses – yours and the bridesmaids.
Almost 30% of America is federal land, which is free to use. That’s right, those who want to get married somewhere gorgeous (excluding national parks and other places that require an entrance fee) don’t have to pay, as long as they abide by all the rules and pack everything out with them after the festivities wind down.
For those hesitant about committing to the outdoors, there are semi-outdoor spaces, like the Thorncrown Chapel in Arkansas, or how about the gorgeous cabin meets luxury at the Piney River Ranch in Colorado?
And if you’re wondering where to score the perfect bridesmaids dress, check out Bella Bridesmaids. They have a stunning collection featuring top designers in every cut, style, material, color – even pattern.
Country
Rustic and charming, having weddings in a country setting provides the old and the new – you supply the borrowed and blue. With a ton of exquisitely done options, such as the Legacy Farms in Nashville, there’s something irresistibly appealing about the blend when rough meets refined.
These properties usually are surrounded by acres of exquisite grounds. Perfect for those who dream of an outdoor ceremony under a rose-studded trellis, and a golden hour photo op. Then heading indoors for a reception fueled by dancing and laughter.
All in all, country settings provide a beautiful private backdrop for what will become some of your greatest memories.
Historic
With exquisite architecture and stories gathered throughout the years, historic buildings impose a dignified presence. It’s hard not to feel a sense of wonder and appreciation, plus a little excitement that your big day – your story – gets to be woven into the space, becoming part of history.
From the grandeur of the Ebell Long Beach to the delightful elegance of Bella Rosa in Virginia, there is no shortage of historic buildings scattered throughout the USA, each with its own unique architectural flair, enchanting grounds, and captivating stories.
Castle
Fairy tales do come true! Those who’ve been harboring fantasies of a fairytale wedding, listen up: There are a ton of dreamy castle-inspired venues dotted all across the country.
Still a skeptic? Check out this absolute stunner, The Van Dusen Mansion, located in Minnesota. From a grand arched ivy-draped entrance to the crisp white interior with paneled walls and glittering chandeliers, you can’t help but feel like royalty in this regal, opulent space.
Unexpected
For some people, the perfect wedding venue may not really be a wedding venue at all. Yet that hasn’t stopped couples from tying the knot at museums, galleries, libraries and zoos.
If you and your fiancée are passionate about something – if there’s something that you just can’t get enough of – why not incorporate that into your big day? Bonus points if this activity led the two of you to meet in the first place!
The truth is, with a little imagination, almost anything – from sports stadiums to your favorite brewery or dive bar can be transformed into a wedding venue. One that’s unequivocally unapologetically you.
Conclusion:
With so many ideas, venues, and spaces to choose from, narrowing down the perfect one for your big day may not be as challenging as you initially thought.
The Groom’s Guide from Popping the Question to Tying the Knot(Opens in a new browser tab)
It’s also important to remember. No matter where you celebrate, the people gathered there sharing in the love and celebrating this momentous occasion with you, are what make the day actually perfect. The venue’s just the icing on the cake.